History of Karlovy Vary in a Nutshell

Karlovy Vary’s history dates as far back as the 14^th century when a spa was founded by Charles IV there called Horké Lázně u Lokte or hot spas at Loket in English. Charles IV was also the king who was the namesake of Prague’s Charles Bridge. 

The settlement was later renamed to Karlovy Vary and it was in 1370 when it was given town privileges. Karl is Charles’ version in Czech while vary is the plural form of var, which means boiling. Therefore, the town’s name means Charles’ Hot Springs.

The development of Karlovy Vary into one of the most famous spa towns in Europe has something to do with the publications of Josef von Löschner and David Becher during the late 18^th century and the 19^th century. 

The visitors’ number continued to grow and before the start of the First World War, approximately 70,000 people visited this spa town every year. Among these visitors were a lot of very affluent people, politicians, aristocrats, and artists. 

After the end of World War I in 1918, Karlovy Vary was integrated into the independent Czechoslovak state. Karlovy Vary Airport officially opened in 1929. A big part of the population of the town during the interwar period spoke the German language. The town was then incorporated in 1938 into Nazi Germany as a part of Sudetenland based on the Munich Agreement’s terms. 

Most of the population of Germans was expelled after World War II. The first-ever edition of the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival was organized in 1946 in the town. The communist state controlled and nationalized all the resorts and spa establishments between 1948 and 1989. 

Ever since communism collapsed in 1989, Karlovy Vary underwent gradual restoration to its early days of glory. The town center is thriving with life and activities and visitors can look forward to enjoying a lot of relaxing and pampering spa treatments. 

Top Attractions 

Many visitors flock to Karlovy Vary either to attend the renowned film festival or to bask in its selection of wellness treatments. However, you won’t be disappointed or let down if you happen to be someone who just wants to go on regular sightseeing because the town is filled with a lot of notable sights and landmarks. 

Colonnades 

Colonnades are a distinct element in the town’s cityscape. These colonnades allow visitors to enjoy the spring season even during rainy days. The town has five colonnades. 

Found near Zámecký Vrch Street, the Castle Colonnade was designed in Art Nouveau style by Friedrich Ohmann, an Austrian architect who opened in 1912. Today, however, the general public can only access a part of it because the Castle Spa was built there during the early 21^st century, and guests are the only ones allowed to stay there. The public can still access the arbor with its Upper Castle Spring. 

The Hot Spring Colonnade is found adjacent to Divadelni Square in the spa center. It serves as the home to the most astounding of the geysers in the town, the Hot Springs. The temperature of the water is 72°C with the jet reaching a height of around 12m. It gushes approximately 2,000 liters of mineral water per minute. 

This water is partly diverted into a few smaller fountains that have lower temperatures ideal for drinking. Jaroslav Otruba is behind the design of the colonnade that was finished in 1975. The present construction replaced the former cast-iron structure first designed by the Austrian architects Hermann Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner.

The Market Colonnade is a wooden white structure at the heart of the town on Teplá River’s left bank. It was also made the Helmer and Fellner in the style of a Swish chalet that welcomed the public in 1883. 

The town’s largest colonnade, the Mill Colonnade, is found in Mlýnské Nábřeží Street’s spa center.  It is the work of Josef Zitek, the renowned Czech architect who designed it in Neoclassical style and was opened in 1881. It serves as the home to the seeps of five mineral springs. 

The last colonnade, the Park Colonnade, is found in Dvořák’s Park beside Zahradni Street. Helmer and Fellner were also behind the design of this colonnade that opened in 1881. This houses the Snake Spring’s seep. 

Gazebos and Arbors 

Gazebos and arbors are also common features seen in Karlovy Vary’s cityscape. Some of these can be found on the adjacent hills, serving as lookouts where you can see scenic views not just of the town but also of the region as a whole. These include the Arbour at the Three Crosses, the Camera Obscura Arbour, and the Mayer’s Gloriette.

The Freedom Spring Arbour, however, is probably the most gorgeous of all of the town’s arbours found close to Spa III beside Mlýnské Nábřeží Street. This arbour, unlike most of the arbours in the area, doesn’t serve as a lookout. Instead, it serves as the home to Freedom Spring’s seep. 

Lookout Towers 

If you wish to enjoy the panoramic views, you can enjoy these from different lookout towers dotting the area. 

The Castle Tower is located in the town center only a short distance away from the Market Colonnade. This tower is the final remains of the castle built by Charles IV there during the 14^th century. The tower managed to survive even after a fire damaged the castle during the 17^th century. Climbing the tower will give visitors a chance to enjoy the downtown’s spectacular view. 

Diana Observation Tower near the town center is elevated at 562m above sea level. You can access it from the Grandhotel Pupp via a funicular. Several hiking trails also lead there if you’re willing to put your muscles to use. 

Goethe’s Lookout is a gorgeous Neo-Gothic tower perched atop a hill known as Height of Eternal Life. Helmer and Fellnerr designed this tower as some of the colonnades of the town. 

Why choose the Postojna Cave

If you have decided to visit Slovenia, do it! It is truly a beautiful land. And a visit to these caves  certainly cannot be missed. The Postojna Caves are in fact one of the main Slovenian attractions and are not even very far from Ljubljana, the capital.

They are also located about ten kilometers from the suggestive Predjama castle, another gem of this area. You are therefore close to one of the most beautiful architectural structures in the country and very close to the capital and its amenities. So wear your shoes and let’s get ready to discover this very special itinerary.

The caves of Postumia

If you are expecting a classic walk among the rocks, we are sorry for you: arriving at the Postojna Cave will be like disembarking on another planet. You will not be able to reach it by car or by bike but there will be a special train that will accompany you. At that point a guide will accompany you through tunnels crowned by stalagmites, salt caves and imposing columns. It is a relatively short path, it is about 5km of cave, so bring a drink and always wear comfortable shoes, suitable for the terrain.

The columns deserve a more detailed description: they even reach 5 meters and are structures that have been formed over millions of years. Entering the Postojna caves is a bit like entering a history book: only the stone will tell it.

Another thing worth mentioning is the area of ​​the caves which is called the nursery. Inside, in fact, you can tighten the fin to the only inhabitant of the Postojna Caves: Proteus, colloquially called the human fish. It is a small invertebrate that inhabits karst undergrounds and which, over the centuries, has perfectly adapted to the environment, not needing light even for an entire century.

We do not deny that it can be a tiring journey. However, the view is so beautiful that missing it would be a real shame. In short, if you do not go there you will regret it.

The surroundings of the Postojna Caves: Predjama Castle

We are very sure that the rock has conquered you but if this visit to the caves was not enough, know that in the Postojna complex there is another fantastic attraction, partly rocky, that you must absolutely see.

We are talking about the Predjama castle, very close to the Postojna caves and partly nestled in the mountain. It is not a recent construction, the age of the castle is around 800 years and it is a real feast for the eyes.

If the outside has struck you, well, get ready: the inside can also be visited.

The interior of the castle is a labyrinth of rooms full of history. The Castle has in fact become famous thanks to the Slovenian hero who lived there, resisting a year-long siege inside.

The armory, one of the largest rooms together with the lounge, also allows you to enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Slovenia, overlooking hills and a blue sky that you will not find even in the most famous paintings. The castle is also home to a whole series of hidden passages that lead to the caves but can only be visited at certain times of the year so as not to disturb the hibernation of the countless bats that inhabit them.

Traveling to the Postojna caves

If you are traveling from Italy, the best way to reach Postojna and its caves is to arrive by plane to the Trieste airport and then take a car and drive to Postojna. Not only because the Slovenian roads are very well organized but also because the view is so beautiful that you will love driving a few kilometers. Both the destination and the journey are absolutely worth it.

Just so you know, there are actually so many reasons why maps still matter even in this day and age. For many centuries, maps have been offering mankind with that important knowledge necessary for decision-making.

Maps first appeared on clay tablets, mammoth tusks, and cave walls before explorers started drawing maps on paper as humans start understanding the shape of the world. 

Right now, advanced GIS or Geographic Information Systems combining complex visualization and math lets people to understand, plan, and connect them with what really matters. So, how do maps do all of these things in the first place?

Read on to know the top reasons that make maps important even in this modern world:

Maps Can Be Your Life Savior

Research has revealed that there are over 300 million people who visit national parks, wilderness areas, and forests on a yearly basis. Just so you know, cellular signals do not extend to these places and maps might serve as the only reference you can use in case an emergency happens. 

In case there is flooding close to you, it is important to know how you can go to the nearest high elevation to you. If an injury occurs, you also need to seek help by getting to the closest high traffic area.  If your path is cut off by a wild animal, you have to look for an alternate route immediately. 

The last thing you want is to get caught in the middle of nowhere clutching your phone, hoping that you will get a signal. Paper maps can save your life, especially in the most unexpected situations. 

World Maps Act as Functional Tools 

While GPS can take you from one point to another, it might still do a poor job in helping you visualize exactly where you are in relation to other things around you. 

Many of you are probably familiar with GPS. It helps you find your location and all you have to do is tell it where you have to go. Yes, GPS functions well at getting you to your next location but it won’t be able to tell you something about the rest of the places that you pass on your way. 

There is a good reason why you should never plan cross-country trips over the phone. The best routes are not always the fastest routes and you can never choose your best route without being aware of your relationship the surrounding places. 

Maps Make Complex Information Simple 

World maps take complicated sets of data and show them in the form of a pleasing graphic that you can use for answering questions about the world around you. 

Imagine yourself as an elementary student and you asked your teacher to show you how big the US is compared to the rest of the countries. She smiles and pulls down a large spreadsheet from the spring roller listing all countries and their areas. How do you expect to understand all of that?

Maps serve as a visual representation of complex data. Others might think maps are complicated and unnecessary tools. But, the truth is that maps can make your life simple. 

Maps Help Children Learn New Skills in Life

Maps also support spatial thinking through helping kids visualize where countries, cities, places, and objects are in relation to each other. 

Spatial thinking is associated with greater success in science and math. Kids who develop strong skills in spatial thinking have a better edge in today’s technological and global society. 

As the world starts to shape children’s education and prepare them for their future, skills in map reading help kids gain more proficiency in geography principles. You can go to all places with just a map alone!

Maps Serve as History’s Blueprint

Maps give you a good idea of how people understood the world during the time they created the map. Take old maps, for instance. Of course, an old map shows you the different things that used to be there and those that exist there now. However, maps also show you how mapmakers understood the world during their time. 

Are there missing parts of the world because they weren’t aware of its existence? Is there any inaccuracy due to wrong assumptions? The way a map looks is completely changed by the cartographer and why the maps were developed in the first place. 

Maps are like wonderful time capsules that explain more beyond how geography is depicted. 

Maps Offer Safety in This Highly Detached Modern World 

There are already several cases dealing with GPS-related accidents. A study that looked at the effect of GPS on drivers came to a conclusion that users of GPS attend to those objects in the routes they take to their destination. However, researchers also discovered evidence that environmental engagement is lost and that the process of world interpretation, adding more value to it and transforming space into place has been cut down to some extent, with drivers remaining detached from those indifferent environments surrounding them.

They concluded that GPS got rid much of the need for paying attention. It is also applicable to other life areas as well. When you pay more attention to you device, you end up paying less attention to your surroundings. On the other hand, world maps help you stay grounded to your environments. Maps in this modern world are like the story’s hero and GPS is only a sidekick. 

Maps and Your Memories are Connected

Finally, maps are not only an image of a place. More than that, they connect you to those memories you have in that specific place. A map inspires you to think outside the box, widen your horizons, and give you a glimpse of places you visited and those you wish to go to. 

Every time you see a map of the place you visited, you can never help but remember the memories you have of that place. Maps are the treasure trove of stories and memories of places where you spent your time. 

So, the next time  you think world maps are no longer a thing, you might want to think again. 

Ditch the Tourist Transfers

There is really no need for you to spend your money on tourist transfers unless you only got very limited time to stay in the country. Many of the nation’s iconic attractions can be accessed via public transportation. All you have to do is ask the personnel at your hostel or hotel for help with the timetables. The big cities are all linked with trains or buses or even both sometimes.

Save Money on Tourist Attractions

The attractions and museums in the area rarely cost over $3. However, if you are planning several of them, you might want to check their websites if they have free days that are often once every month. All galleries and museums across the country are available for free during European Museum Night held annual on the Saturday after or before the International Museum Day on the 18^th of May.

There are also a lot of special events during this time. It is also free to visit the churches except when it is a national monument. This is also applicable for national parks. 

Monitor Your Food Expenses 

Cook and prepare your own meals and make the most out of the nearby markets offering fresh vegetables and fruits. Doing so will not only help you save money because you will surely be happy to learn that unlike most countries  where fresh produce is somewhat bland despite being able to last longer, produce in Bulgaria has a rich taste, although they tend to rot faster.

Curb Your Entertainment Costs

Most bars in the area organize live concerts for free featuring young bands. Don’t hesitate to inquire at your hotel what they have to offer for the night. Most of the best festivals in Bulgaria are also free. The parks, specifically those in Sofia, also have a lot of scheduled free events during summertime. 

Save on Your Souvenirs 

No trip will ever be complete if you don’t buy souvenirs that you will bring back home. However, if you don’t want to break your budget, you might want to stay away from the tourist shops.

What you can do instead is to check out the nearby supermarket and buy sharena sol or mixed Bulgarian herbs and lyutenitsa, or the traditional Bulgarian spread prepared using peppers and tomatoes. You can then drop by at the pharmacy or beauty shop to purchase some cosmetic products that contain Bulgarian rose oil at a very affordable price. 

Spend Less on Public Transportation and Taxis 

You can enjoy the discounts courtesy of the national Bulgarian railway company if you purchase a return ticket that is a great option for day trips. Many bus companies also offer special return fares. In case you are staying in Sofia and you are planning to use public transportation for over thrice per day, you might want to get a daily pass or even a 30day pass. You can use these passes for all public transportation including trams, buses, and subway. You can also buy them at all ticket kiosks.

Since there is no Uber operation in the country, cabs dominate in Bulgaria. All taxi companies in cities implement almost similar prices but expect that there might still be variations depending on the city. The best way to enjoy some savings is to avoid hopping in fraud cabs. Make sure that the fares are displayed on the sticker on the car’s window. Look for another cab if you don’t find one. 

Ideas for Your Bulgarian Trip Itinerary 

Did you know that you can visit all of the highlights of the country in just two weeks? But, if you don’t have a lot of time, you can just spend fewer days per place or fewer day trips. 

You can begin in Sofia with several days to visit the area’s museums and churches. You can also go to the stunning Rila Monastery for your day trip. Ride the bus or train to Plovdiv afterwards. Three days is enough to soak up the history of the town and visit its popular cultural attractions before you proceed to the mountains with Veliko Trnovo as your base or starting point.

You might also want to spend one day to visit the city sights itself, such as its amazing fortress before you head out for your day trips. Some of the best activities to try is going for an easy stroll through the hills leading to Arbanasi’s medieval village, waterfall-spotting and hiking in Emen Canon, or going to the majestic Troyan Monastery. It is recommended to spend a minimum of three days in Veliko although it might be better if you stay their longer. It is one of the most pleasant towns in Eastern Europe and also got the most number of the country’s top tourist attractions. 

Coming from Veliko, take a bus ride to Sozoopol or Varna to get to Black Sea Coast. You can spend the rest of your stay hitting the beach clubs, lounging on the beaches, or just getting lost amidst the Mediterraneanes-que city centers. This is the best way for you to conclude your vacation before you catch a bus back to Sofia before your flight home. 

Weather and Best Time to Visit 

The weather in the country is common for the region with cold and snowy winters, pleasant autumns and springs, and hot summers. 

The country’s peak of tourism and Black Sea beach season is from the months of June to August. These are times when beaches are crowded and thriving but it is also warm enough for you to enjoy a dip in the water. The weather can get too cold during mid-September that going for a swim might no longer be possible. 

Book your trip to Bulgaria today and expect for a frugal but exciting trip like no other!

Kyoto

The capital of Japan for more than a thousand years, the city of Kyoto has maintained its alluring beauty as it also embraces and welcomes more contemporary trends. Locals agree that the city is cool as it provides easy access to many other equally stunning destinations.

The classic and beautiful city is an awesome place to explore. There are lots of unique Japanese adventures that await you here. You can grab a bite at Nishiki Market or bask in the wonderful sounds of trees at Sagano Bamboo Forest as they sway with the wind. 

Kyoto is also the perfect spot to go if you are looking for local advice. Locals also suggest that you drop by at Kyoto Station Building. The complex is filled with hundreds of restaurants and it is also where both travelers and locals enjoy their dinner and lunch. 

If you are planning to stay in Kyoto for some time, it’s a great decision to make. However, the city is also a wonderful place to kick start your day trip in Japan. According to locals, you wouldn’t have a hard time catching the train that will whisk you off to Osaka. 

As the dessert capital of the city, you can pretty much expect to satisfy your sweet tooth in Kyoto. There are lots of sugary delights that you would definitely love. Kyoto Station, for example, serves as the home to Pancake that is exactly as its name suggests!

Osaka 

As the official food capital of Japan, Osaka is a dynamic and fun place you should never miss visiting. The extensive selection of eats and intense energy of the city just means that your whole being will be fully satisfied. 

Obviously, eating is the best thing to do in the city as this is the ultimate foodie’s paradise. According to locals, Osaka is famous for three special types of food. These include kushikatsu or the deep-fried meat, vegetables, and fish on sticks; takoyaki or fried balls of octopus; and okonomiyaki or Japanese-style pandcakes.

So, where should you go if you want to grab some delish dinner during your stay in Osaka? Locals claim that the neighborhoods of Shinsaibashi or Dotonbori deserve a spot in the bucket list of any foodie. You will also have fun checking out Kuromon Ichiba Market. 

But, aside from food, there are also plenty of cool attractions to visit and see in Osaka. While not as popular as Tokyo or Kyoto, exploring this city will surely give you an awesome time as there are tons of things you can try and do. Locals highly recommend the Osaka aquarium that is one of the world’s largest aquariums. Locals also recommend visiting earlier in the day for you to spend more time in the place. They also recommend the Osaka Museum of History as this is the best to know more about Osaka. Locals also state that the place also offers a panoramic view of the nearby Osaka Castle. 

Tokyo 

There is simply no dull moment when you are wandering around Tokyo. The 23 wards or neighborhoods of the city all have something to offer for everyone. Aside from being a dynamic combination of present, past, and future, Tokyo is also a whirlwind of all sounds and sights you can ever imagine.

You will never run out of excitement when exploring the city. Some of the must-try things in Tokyo include walking around the serene cobblestone streets surrounding the Meiji Shrine to dining at the kaleidoscope Robot Restaurant. And the best thing here is that no matter where your feet take you, you can have the peace of mind knowing that Tokyo is one of the safest cities of the world.

According to locals, visitors in Tokyo should never miss out the crazy and really crazy colorful trends in fashion in districts such as Shibuya and Harajuku. These areas tend to be overwhelming so make sure you heed the advice of the locals. When in Harajuku, locals also recommend to grab a glass of beer at Harajuku Taproom, one of the city’s best craft beer taprooms. 

Locals also agree that Tokyo is the best place to be if you want to eat ramen. They claim that is very popular to dine at Japanese chain restaurants such as Ichiran and Yoshinoya Ramen. In case you don’t know, people from various corners of the world go to Ichiran just to slurp tonkotsu or pork bone broth. 

Yokohama

Yokohama has been thriving after the challenging days of the Great Kanto Earthquake and the devastation of the city during the World War II. These days, it has become a stunning port city filled of fun things to do, great eats, and exciting nightlife. 

The city also boasts of beautiful. From scaling the Yokohama Landmark Tower, which is home to the fastest elevator in Japan to riding Cosmo Clock 21, the colossal rainbow Ferris Wheel of the city, you will find numerous opportunities in town to get an incredible view.

There are also local insights that await you once you are back on solid ground. Locals recommend checking out the Yokohama Brick Warehouse if you are looking for a sight that is more unique. They also say that this warehouse is different from other shopping centers you will see throughout the time you spend in Japan. 

If you wish to explore the outskirts of Yokohama, make sure you catch the shinkansen or bullet train for a more convenient day trip. In Yokohama, locals recommend that you prioritize eating noodles and ramen. The Yokohama Station is the perfect spot for grabbing noodles where the tradition of group harmony or wa encourages beauty in the public area. The restaurants at Yokohama Station can fill you up with all kinds of noodles, from soba, to ramen, and udon and for only a few dollars, you can enjoy an excellent lunch. 

Make sure you visit these Japanese cities to have the best experience in Japan! 

Built more than 2,300 years ago, this wall listed as a UNESCO site has a width of 7 meters and a height of 6 to 14 meters with more than 25,000 battlements that snake a path along thick forests and steep mountain ridges. 

Unlike what most people believe, the wall is not really a continuous one and instead, it is composed of several sections intermingled with mountains that serve as a natural defense.

Aside from being the longest wall in the world, the Great Wall of China is also the largest ancient architecture. Its amazing scenery serves as an attraction to millions of local and foreign tourists alike. However, not everyone gets to enjoy their experience at the Great Wall to the fullest. 

To ensure that you have a better than usual trip to the Great Wall, there are several important dos and don’ts you should keep in mind. 

The Dos

• Check the weather before you leave to ensure that you won’t be hiking the Great Wall in the midst of a bad weather condition. 
• Choose the most suitable section of the Great Wall to visit. It would be a big help if you can research and compare the different sections to make your decision-making easier. 
• Visit the Great Wall during fall or spring when the weather is fine. Summer is considered as the peak season with exhausting heat and large crowds. While there is a smaller crowd during winter, the problem is that it can get dangerously cold. 
•  Go on a hiking trip to the Great Wall so you can best appreciate the landscape and have a real feel of this extraordinary historical architecture. 
• Bring food and water if you have plans to go a long hike on the Great Wall.  You won’t find any shop on the wall while restaurants are located all the way down in the valleys. 
• Prepare well for the hike. Make sure you wear windbreakers and hiking boots. Take some walking poles with you and gear to protect you from the sun such as sunglasses and hat and apply sunscreen as well. Use waterproof gear as needed. 
• Experience the toboggan slide away when descending the Great Wall of China if you will be visiting Mutianyu or Badaling, especially there are children with you.  
• Watch your steps. Take extra care to avoid falls, trips, and slips as well as loose bricks or ricks at the wild sections of the wall. 
• Visit Mutianyu, Juyongguan, or Badaling sections if you got some problems with mobility. These sections of the wall are more wheelchair-friendly. Mutianyu and Badaling have somewhat disability-friendly cable cars that can take you up to the wall. 
• Bring your own toilet paper and stop by at the valley restrooms before you ascend the Great Wall because you won’t find any toilets once you get to the wall. 

The Don’ts 

• Don’t wear shoes with open toes when hiking the Great Wall of China even during hot summer months to keep your toes protected. 
• Don’t fall for tourist traps or those group tours to the Great Wall offered by tour guides or drivers by the road. These people will only take you for a low quality and quick visit to a section of the wall that you didn’t even ask for, with tiresome and long round of stops just to get more money from you. 
• Don’t go camping on the wall because it can get uncomfortable and dangerous during inclement weather, not to mention that carrying additional weight will only affect your hiking experience. Aside from that, this activity is also not allowed in majority of areas next to the Great Walls. 
• Don’t visit the wild Great Wall all by yourself. Make sure you travel with your friends so you can help each other out. You can also look for a professional guide who will ensure that you don’t get lost and to ensure easy access as well. 
• Don’t go to the famous Great Wall sections during Chinese holidays or weekends and other peak season. There can be huge crowds at these sections such as Badaling. 
• Don’t take pictures from unsafe areas. It is important to get a secure and solid footing and avoid moving about if you are standing near loose bricks or rocks and steep drops. Don’t put your camera or yourself at risk for the sake of taking photos. 
• Don’t leave your trash on the wall or the mountains. Always maintain the cleanliness of the wall so that other travelers will also be able to enjoy the view to the fullest. 
• Don’t walk or run too fast when you are on the wall, particularly when going down. There might be some loose stones and bricks here and there that can compromise your safety. 
• Don’t climb on the watchtowers’ windows especially those that were not restored yet as these might collapse. 
• Don’t expect so much from the facilities, specifically the ones in less traveled sections of the wall such as Gubeiko and Jiankou. 

Visit the Great Wall of China Today

Travelers who want to stay away from large crowds of tourists in China (https://www.travel-rs.com/china/) can find some un-restored parts of the wall where they can explore and hike. However, be warned because the government of China sometimes blocks off the whole sections or fines unauthorized trespassers. 

According to the authorities, they only want protect these sections. If you want to visit the Wall, your best point of departure would be Beijing where you can ride a taxi or public bus or take a tour from there. Head out late in the afternoon or super early in the morning to beat the crowds of tour buses, especially if you want to go to Badaling. 

Castles have long been associated with fairy tales as well as myths and legends of the distant past. To this day and age, they remain to be the main setting of any type or genre of story.

Powerful and regal with an appearance that is reminiscent of the ancient times, castles never fail to captivate visitors even after hundreds of years have passed. These edifices take you back in time with their evocative and mysterious façade. They also give off this unique magical aura but some have a sinister vibe to them. The Castle of Miramare is the perfect example of a castle that, albeit beautiful, serves as the subject of many inexplicable stories. 

The Early Beginnings of the Castle of Miramare

The breathtaking Miramare Castle was established upon the command of the Archduke of Austria, Maximilian of Habsburg-Lorraine. Maximilian wanted to have a house that he will share with Carlotta, his wife, which resembles the Spanish castles that face the Atlantic. This is why it was named Miramare or mirar el mar which means look at the sea. 

The Miramare Castle’s history has roots that can be traced as far as back as the ancient times, in 1885 to be specific, when Maximilian realized that he wanted to have a castle built close to the bay of Grignano. 

The work started the following year, with the project entrusted to Architect Carl Junker. In the beginning, Maximilian was not that enthusiastic to the point that he even asked for a sketch from Giovanni Berlam, another architect. To the Archduke’s eyes, this second work appeared much better even though the final project still remained as that of Junker. 

This castle has a style that is firmly neo-medieval. It is the reflection of the era’s eclectic style, with a combination of Renaissance, medieval, and Gothic elements. At first, it had a mezzanine and three floors. Maximilian didn’t support it as he preferred to get rid of one of the original planned plans. When 1859 came, the Archduke then lost his position as Lombard-Veneto Kingdom’s governor and he then moved to the castle with his dear wife. After some time, he went to Brazil and grabbed the chance to catalog all the beautiful plants adorning the garden of the castle. 

Maximilian then went back to his beloved home. However, he decided to leave again in 1884 and this time, he was with Carlotta. The two of them traveled to Mexico. The couple spent years of happiness living in the Miramare Castle until Maximilian’s death in Queretaro. 

Sadly, this was not the only tragedy that befell the noble family. Not long after her beloved husband died, Carlotta gave clear symptoms of mental instability and lost her mind. She locked herself up inside the castle for some time before she went back to Belgium. In the meantime, a portion of the grand castle was also completed. 

Curses and Ghost Stories in the Castle of Miramare

Carlotta had a blinded anger after losing her dearly loved husband to the extent that she cursed the whole castle and everyone who stayed there. What was even intriguing was that there were some victims who suffered from a fatal death within the walls of this gorgeous yet ruthless place. 

After Maximilian, the archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria faced a brutal death during the infamous Sarajevo attack that was responsible for the start of the World War I. 

The castle then fell into the hands of Amedeo Duca d’Aosta. He, too, died during World War II after being forced to the prison camp. The same fate was experienced by the decorated American General Charles Moor who died during the Korean War. Vernice Musgrave Mac Fadden, his colleague, has disappeared as well. The man died in a vehicular accident while heading to Livorno to go back to America. 

This was then followed by the Austrian politician Friedrich Rainer who stayed in the castle during the recent war. The partisans brutally killed him. 

Charmed Visitors and Friendly Ghosts 

In the midst of all these nightmarish deaths, there was one story in particular that brought smiles to the faces of many tourists who have toured the Miramare Castle. Being superstitious beyond imagination, the Colonel Bowman from New Zealand believed in the curse and bloody legend. This is why he opted to sleep in his tent pitched in the castle park. He was able to save his life in spite of the curse. 

There was another legend that was associated with the fairy tale but gloomy manor. This was about the ghosts of the couple Maximilian and Carlotta still haunting the walls of the castle. But, with the dedication he put into the construction of the castle, it is easier to believe that Maximilian would have been more inclined towards calmness and goodness and his only interest will be to enjoy the peace and serenity of his house. 

But, at the end of the day, despite all the stories about ghosts and curses, there is no denying that the Miramare Castle still remains to be one of the key destinations in Trieste flocked and crowded by local and national tourists and visitors alike. While numerous deaths took place in the castle, its solemn charm was not lost and did not even diminish even after many centuries have passed. If you are a big fan of castles, mysteries, curses, and everything in between, then, it is time for you to visit the castle and if you are in luck, you might even stumble on a specter. Or maybe not!

Vir Island at a Glance 

The island lies in the Sea of Vir in the northwestern region of Dalmatia. This ranks on the 20^th in the list of the largest islands of the Croatian Islands and 8^th in Zadar Archipelago. This stretches for 10.12 kilometers long, a surface of 22.38 km with the widest part being 4.25 km.

The coast line of the island is 31.43 km long. Zadar and island Vir is 26 km away from each other and approximately 15 NM via sea route. Since 1976, a bridge spanning across the Shellows of Privlaka connects Vir to the mainland, allowing the island to be one of the mainland’s integral parts. 

The Climate 

Visitors of the island can take advantage of the mobility that the modern road network offers and at the same time, experience the island’s usual atmosphere.  Vir enjoys an authentic Mediterranean climate. There are 2,450 sunny hours annually on the island or around 300 days of wonderful sunshine, making it a wonderful destination outside the main season.

The average rainfall amount is about 1,000 mm. It means that during summer, there is an average of 5 to 6 rainy days and this number is cut down by half during the region’s main season. 

Winds are considered as the most critical characteristic of the climate of Island Vir. Mistral occurs during spring, which is a refreshing and major wind during summer months that lowers the temperature of the season and creates best time to sail in Croatia and of course surfing.

In July, 25 ° C is the highest average temperature and the lowest is 6.5 ° C in January. The healthy climate has a significant impact on the life length and health of the island’s population. 

What to Expect at Island Vir 

Along the island’s coast are sandy and pebbly beaches partly located next to pine trees with the crystal clear water of the sea surrounding them. This makes the island an ideal getaway for family holidays. There is a very special area where the tiny island of Školjić is found, covered in a unique long sandy beach and pine trees. Školjić is located next to the bridge connecting the island to the mainland.

Aside from swimming, sailing, surfing, jet skiing, as well as other exciting water sports, hiking buffs can also take in the panoramic view of the entire Vir, the Velebit mountain, and other nearby islands from the peak of the Bandira vantage point. This area is recommended to people who love to go on mountain hikes. 

The peloid mud is another quite interesting thing in the Island Vir. This is used for treating rheumatic diseases and is found at several beaches around the island, particularly those close to Sapavac bay near Kaštelina, the Venetian fortress. This is a must-visit spot for older visitors. If you love to go on picnics, Island Vir is also the best place for you, thanks to its Croatian Adriatic locaito and the nearness to national parks. Nin, the ancient royal town with the world’s smallest cathedral St. Cross is also located nearby as well as 3000-year old Zadar town dotted by numerous historical monuments.

1. New York, USA

The image of The Big Apple coated in a fresh blanket of snow is reason enough to add this wonderful city to your Christmas travel bucket list. With Christmas markets, seasonal villages, and world-famous lights displays, New York is well stocked for a great seasonal adventure. Take your other half for a romantic gander at the mesmerising lights in Rockefeller Centre, treat your family to an unforgettable ice-skating experience in the Bryant Winter Park Village, and look out for the Christmas concerts and movie screenings that pepper the city; the options for activities in New York at Christmas are endless!

2. Lord Howe Island, Australia

In stark contrast to wintery New York, Lord Howe Island offers a Christmas Day celebration lounging on the beach with a barbecue on. The scenic and relaxed island offers the perfect getaway from crowded cities and a cold Northern Hemisphere to an unusual experience of a balmy Christmas on the beach! Of course, this is only unusual if you normally spend winter in the northern half of the globe…

3. Lapland, Finland

On the opposite side of the planet lies the Christmas of every child’s dreams – a family holiday to meet Santa Claus himself. Staying in log cabins deep in the wintery magic of Finnish Lapland, travellers can enjoy sleigh rides, meeting Father Christmas, and even catch the unique spectacular phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis. These trips can be quite heavy on the wallet; seeking the aid of a local guide can help travellers make the most of their festive holiday.

4. Perhentian Islands, Malaysia

The backpacker haven of the Perhentians offers a clean break from traditional festivities. It is a group of coral fringed islands offering pristine white sandy beaches and several trek trails around the islands to explore. There aren’t any roads, just jungle trails. The Lighthouse Towers offer spectacular viewpoints, and a sea diving spot. Bars catering for tourists may offer some form of Christmas celebrations, but you can opt to spend your time here scuba diving, snorkelling, sea-kayaking, sunbathing, turtle conservation volunteering and relaxing in the sun off the eastern coast of Malaysia. You can take help from your Malaysia tour guide(https://www.tourhq.com/malaysia-tours-guide) for more.

5. Brussels, Belgium

Belgium’s capital is internationally known for chocolate, waffles, and beer. However, it’s the Christmas markets that make it an ideal holiday destination for those looking to imbibe the best of the yule season. From November 30^th to January 6^th the city turns into a dreamlike Christmas wonderland, with fairground attractions, huge markets, great food, and an ice-rink. The nearby city of Bruges offers an equally fantastic Christmas atmosphere for those considering an additional daytrip from Brussels! Ask your tour guide about this Belgium tour (https://www.tourhq.com/belgium/tours).

6. Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa offers Christmas traditions similar to Australia, as festivities tend to involve relaxing in the sun on the beach. However, Cape Town also has more some other conventional Christmas offerings for travellers too. Carol services at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Christmas markets at Sea Point City Hall are just two of the many festive activities organised in the city.

7. Volunteering in South America

During the festive period it may be easy to overlook those in need of assistance worldwide. If you happen to be travelling in South America during the winter holidays, why not try to help those in need? Through these, you’ll be able to gain a deeper insight into the challenges faced by the communities or the environment. For example, you can provide support at child development at care centres, animal rehabilitation houses or reforestation efforts in the rainforest. You can also join in for one of the Global Internship programmes, to gain first-hand knowledge in your preferred domain from experienced local professionals and gain valuable experience for your resume. Ask local guides and agencies about charitable organisations looking for assistance; it can be a fantastically rewarding way of spending your Christmas.

8. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Christmas may not typically conjure up images of driving through the African Bush searching for wild animals, but why not take a break from tradition? An oasis, the Okavango Delta in Botswana, is one of the largest inland deltas in the world, spanning 17,000km, and is one of the ideal places to see incredible wildlife and celebrate Christmas in unconventional style. It is a major wildlife area protected by Moremi Game Reserve and numerous wildlife concessions within Ngamiland. It is also the 1000^th site to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Many tour guides even offer specific travel itineraries for those wishing to enjoy the festivities from this remote corner of the globe!

9. Zagreb, Croatia

The Croatian capital is renowned throughout Europe for being an ideal Christmas travel destination, offering everything from traditional ice-skating to more unique DJ sets and craft beer vendors. That apart, the Sjleme Mountain Ski Resort, less than an hour’s drive from the city is ideal for anyone planning an outdoorsy Christmas trip!

10. Reykjavik, Iceland

Iceland’s Christmas traditions differ from most other countries. For example, did you know that the country has thirteen different Santa Clauses? This beautiful and fascinating country combats the lack of sunlight with stunning Christmas decorations; and the Northern Lights often brighten up the dark sky in winter! With striking natural beauty, fascinating culture, and an almost guaranteed white Christmas, it is easy to understand why more and more tourists are heading to Iceland for their Christmas holidays!

Christmas is a special time of year, steeped in interesting traditions that varies from country to country, town to town, and even home to home. Why not break the mould and set sail to one of the infinitely enjoyable Christmas travel destinations mentioned above? Try not to worry, Santa Claus will surely deliver your presents wherever you are in the world!

World Travel, in fact, the movement across the frontier defines the human’s curious nature. this unquenchable curiosity and urge to explore was the reason behind our ancestors’ early international travels. The history of world travel starts most probably with the start of the human race. As evident from the fact that the human race originated in Africa and is now inhabited all over the world. Since the 10,000 years ago, all the landmasses of the planet were populated with human beings.  Ironically the next phase of human’s world travel history is characterized by abandoning travel due to the invention of agriculture, the phenomenon also known as the Neolithic Revolution. And the race of survival suddenly converted into building civilizations.

The rise of civilizations gave birth to the need for trade and exploration. The modern wheels invented by Indus Valley Civilization and sailboats invented by Mesopotamian Civilization became the transportation modes for world travel. These civilizations tended to be Empires and started exploring the world to conquer it. Vasco De Gama sailed around Africa and reached Asia; Columbus traveled through the Atlantic to reach Asia and discovered the Americas. The explorers mapped the world with world maps. While talking about world travel and explorers, it is really unfair to forget the Vikings who were prolific seafarers and completed the incredible journeys across the world.

Another revolution impacted the world travel tremendously by making advances to the modes of transportation. The Industrial Revolution totally changed the outlook of the Travelling history.  For about 200 years the world travels were the privilege of the wealthy. However, the industry developed and the possibility of domestic and international tours raised for the ones who stood low on the social ladder. In the modern world, there is huge tourism across the globe.

The Motives of the World Travel

Transportation means are fabulously and amazingly modernized and now, neither the oceans nor the mountains can stop men from Travelling. The Romans were the first to develop road structure at the massive level and for the long distance. Today there are roads, railway tracks for the terrestrial Travelling. They are built by cutting through the mountain hearts and they are undergrounded in populated cities, in the rivers and at points in the seas too.

The huge ships have replaced the sailboats and the airplanes gave wings to the man. The irrepressible urge of Travelling is facilitated enough to make the planet a global village. To further facilitate the world travels Englishman Thomas Cook set the cornerstone of the travel agencies in the 1840s. Now people travel for many different reasons. Few ancient and Modern motives of world travel are discussed here.

• Broaden the Vision

  In Romans’ and Greeks’ times, it was usually thought that “Travel Broadens the mind”. So, it was a totally elite privilege to travel across the world. The aristocrats of Europeans the Nobles of Asia were supposed to make world travel to broaden their vision.

• Culture Influence

  The other known purpose was to influence the culture of the target country. The most cultured and educated people were sent abroad to give a positive impression of the culture. This type of travel is still prevalent.

• Conquering Expeditions

  An ancient but frequently happened phenomenon, when the expeditions travel to conquer the unconquered lands for resources or other imperialistic agendas. Great Britain, France, Japan, and many European countries have the history of world travel for this purpose.

• Religious Pilgrimage

  Middle ages gave way to religious world travels known as the Pilgrimage. People travel to get this religious satisfaction till the date. 2 million Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia to fulfill the religious obligation called Hajj from all across the world. The other big religious gathering occurs in Hinduism at the Kumbh Mela, where Hindus travel to bathe in the Holy River. The Christian travel to Rome; Jews to Jerusalem; Sikhs to the Golden Temple Amritsar. This a huge percentage of world travel comprises the Religious Pilgrimage.

• Grand Tour

  17th Century gave birth to a new type of travel: The Grand Tour. This was supposed to be the rite of passage for the young men, designed to educate them after completion of formal education. Again, this form of travel was initially availed by the rich. But the invention of Railways with cheaper fares opened the door for the middle class too.

• Business Travels

  Another reason for world travel is a business trip. It is not new. In ancient times the people used to travel for the resources i.e. the economic reasons. Then the small scale trade tours started even before the industrial revolution. Nowadays there are thousands of multinational corporations and their directors and CEO make frequent visits to every country.

• Leisure World Travel/ Tourism

  The basic difference between travel and tourism is that tourism is travel without purpose. While the other travels are made with different aims, tourism is just for fun. The Roman Empire again a pioneer to establish world’s first resort, and now the resorts islands are the greatest attraction for the tourists in addition to the seaside, historical places, museums, mountains, and the world wonders. When this leisure world travel started, only 1% of people were able to afford it but now in 2019, this number has tremendously raised to 1.4 billion. 

Most Visited Places on the Surface of Earth

The United Nations World Tourism Organization’s data shows that Europe Continues to be most visited region on the globe with London grabbing around 20 million tourists, alone. The other most visited cities are Dubai, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, New York, Istanbul, Tokyo, Sofia in Bulgaria and Anatolia.

Conclusion

The fantasy of world travel has translated into reality today. It has reached its extremes. Every corner of the world (also Great Wall of China) is accessible today, and people visit every attraction. After conquering the planet Earth, man is today ready to summit the outer atmosphere. The “Space Tourism” is the new and exciting chapter in travel history. The advancing technology could change the face of tourism for times to come.