A short trip to Athens

Before my visit to Athens I didn’t know what to expect but I knew it will be wonderful experience. And it was, now, when I hear Athens I see wide boulevards, clothing shops and of course – the Acropolis.

View from the Acropolis

Monastiraki market, photo by Cosmicadventure

After whole night traveling I arrived at my mom’s house and we spent all they enjoying the time together. The next day I was ready to walk around the huge city. And of course the first stop was the Acropolis. I was surprised not only of the ancient ruins but also of the city view too. It is better go there early in the morning when the sun is not so strong. On the hill where is the Pantheon temple are situated also the temple of Athens and the theater of Dionysus. In the past there used to be a statue of Pallas Athena, the goddess of wisdom, civilization, warfare, strength, strategy, female arts, crafts, justice and skill, which is named after the city today. The walk in the ancient history was great but I was pleased to move in another epoch - Monastiraki market in the foot of the Acropolis. It is a must see place for visit although it is very crowded, especially on Sunday when it’s full of tourists and the locals are also out for shopping. Maybe is better to go around again in the morning during the week when the crowd is still sleeping. Anyway we had a great time around the variety of shops – from local crafts through books and souvenirs till all type of clothes. Prices are different but you can always bargain to reach the price you’d ready to pay.

The Parliament at Syntagma Square, by Cosmicadventure

From the ancient times through the Ages we finally found ourselves at Syntagma square - the main and most central square in Athens (Btw it is named after the constitution of Greece). It is the most modern center of the capital and even the zero point of Greece. The square is popular for meetings of the Athenians and guests of the city. It is ideal place for taking a rest with a cup of coffee which was actually what we did after so much walking. Recently, most of the famous Greek protests take place ar the square. There is situated also the building of the Parliament, built in 19 century to be a Palace. Guard’s changing is something I saw the day before and it impressed me a lot especially because of the guard’s costumes and the tassels of the shoes. Another famous square in Athens we passed by was Omonia. It is located in the shopping are of the capital with a huge number of stores and cafes. Omonia is mainly famous as the square of immigrants. Lots of people from Eastern Europe are looking for their luck and work in Athens and Omonia is a great point to meet each other, chat on their own language, buy newspapers on their language or send gifts to their families as there are some transport companies located at the square.

A favourite boulevard, by Cosmicadventure

A park in Kifissia

On the next day we spend almost a whole day in Kifissia - is one of the richest neighbourhoods in Athens. There are wonderful houses built in a modern style, beautiful parks and gardens. The main square in the area was crowded the whole day mainly with young people spending their free time by meeting friends and having beers. Kifissia is the right place for shopping luxury and expensive clothes. Is not that such shops are missing in the capital center but this is where rich people go. Just be careful what time you’re planning to go shopping anywhere in Greece  - all the shops have very special working hours: from 9 to 19 with 3 hours break , they don’t work on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons at all and of course Sunday is day off. The first day of my stay (Sunday), one of my shoes was broken and we passed through a shop where the owner was arranging the shoes. I kindly asked to buy shoes and he refused me. I had to show him my problem, beg him and finally he agreed to sell me a pair of shoes. It really amazed me but I guess people just have principals.

the amazing octopus

The last evening we went out to say goodbye to my mom and she took me to a nice restaurant where I tried for the first time grilled octopus and I loved it. Of course we ended with a glass of ouzo as it wouldn’t have been a typical dinner without it. I left again with the pleasant sense that I’ll be back (although my mom is not living there anymore). Actually I visited it again but it was a business trip and I didn’t have much time to walk around.

Thessaloniki - a mixture of ancient and modern history

Thessaloniki is a big city situated in a narrow strip along the Aegean coast. It is really crowded with huge traffic. But this doesn’t make it unpleasant, on contrary – I loved to see all those people, locals and tourists, running through the streets. Arriving at the bus station we only had to inform ourselves about the bus schedule and we were ready to explore it.

Easlily my favourite place in Thessaloniki became Aristotel Square

The Arch and the Rotunda

I was impatient to go for a historical walk around the city. Our walk started form the St. Demetrius Church. St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of Thessaloniki and his relics are kept in the church. The church’s Crypt is the place where St. Demetrius was imprisoned and tortured and now it’s turned into museum. There are candles left and everybody who wants could drop a coin and light a candle for health. We went on walking and our next aim was to see the Rotunda and the Arch.  Both were built by Emperor Galerius. He constructed the Arch in honor of the victory over the Persians in 305 and a year later he built the Rotunda with the wish to be entombed there. The Rotunda has later been turned into a mosque and now is church St. George. Our way continued through the Roman remains of Galerius Palace on boulevard Dimitrios Gounari until we reached the symbol of Thessaloniki – The White Tower. It is situated at the coast of the bay. It has been used by Ottomans as a prison and fortress. Now it is a Byzantium museum. Its colour is not white but in 1890 it was whitewashed and still carries that name. There is a park around the tower with lovely flowers and trees and also the monument of Alexander the Great is situated nearby. Maybe here is the place to tell you that the city was established in 315 year B.C by the Macedonian King Cassander who named it after his wife Thessaloniki that was Alexander’s sister.

Panagia Chalkeon Church

Leoforos Nikis Boulevard and the White Tower

I guess it is enough with the history. It was already afternoon so we just sat at the quay watching the blue sea. After a little break we moved on along the coastal boulevard Leoforos Nikis. There were cafes and bars on every corner. I was impressed that on the tables outside they put a bottle of whiskey. Maybe if you sit you have to order a bottle of liqueur? It was strange because it was only 4-5pm and there wasn’t anybody at those places, it was too hot.

You want some Johny?

The clock at the main street

One of the main squares and the heart of Thessaloniki is Aristotel square. Why it’s called Aristotel? Because he has been a teacher of Alexander the Great. It is interesting that now Greek are so fond of Alexander the Macedonian having on mind that ancient Greeks even didn’t recognize him as Greek and didn’t like him! But anyway, the square is amazing – wide, specious, full with people, bars and restaurants. It’s impossible not to sit here and have a glass of ouzo. Doesn’t matter if you come here day time or night you’d love it. We passed few times for walk along the square and the titled Aristotel Boulevard. Shops and little stores are everywhere. You can buy books, clothes, shoes, jewelry. It’s not very cheap but in August they do great sales. Along the whole pedestrian zone there are benches to sit, flowers to admire and architecture that raises admiration. A great decision to get some energy in the middle of the walk is to have a gyro, roasted meat served like a sandwich, that could be found on every corner around the center. There is actually so many things you have to try in Greece but I'll talk more about their food in my next post.

buying souvenirs

my delicios gyro

Mihaniona beach

Thessaloniki is located by the coast but there is no city beach. I couldn’t believe it in the beginning but it definitely turned out to be true. The closest beach is about 20km far from the city- Mihaniona. It is a small town and perfect place for taking a sunbath and rest out of the noisy and crowded Thessaloniki. It could be reached by the city transport bus. I’m not so sure if it was 71 or 72, but when you go on the main station (it's on the railway station), just ask somebody for the beach and they will let you know (here there is some nformation about buses in Thessaloniki)

The suburbs of Thessaloniki are less busy and even could be more beautiful than the center with the houses of maximum 3-4 floor. We stayed at my uncle’s place in Diavata village– a nice small living area northwest of the city. We discovered that area and found out that it has everything – parks and markets, cafes, restaurants and shops. Some people even haven’t been in the center for months. There is a regular bus connection to Thessaloniki so transport is not a problem.

Thessaloniki became one of my favorite places for holiday, tourism and vacation all together. It is a historical city, it has its ancient and modern sightseeing. On the other hand you can stay in a hotel in the crowded center or choose a villa in the suburbs. And not on the last place – the great calm beaches that are far from the noisy city but also so close that you won’t miss the nightlife.

Walking around Dusseldorf

I didn’t know much for Dusseldorf until I went there. It was a business trip but I had 6 evenings to spend around the city and I took full advantage of that time. Roving around the streets and beautiful parks I was happy to learn more about the city.

The river alley

Visiting the Altstadt (the old city) is one of the first things to do that could be done. It is easily accessible by metro, at Heinrich Heine Alee station, unless your hotel is nearby. Walking around its streets you’ll notice the typical German architecture style. You can’t miss “the longest bar in the World”. This is how are called the little crossed streets with their great number of restaurants and cafes. There are not only German restaurants, you can find also Mexican, Italian, Spanish, Indian cuisine and so on and so on and everything is full. It doesn’t matter if it is winter or summer – it is always crowded with people chatting and enjoying the beer and food.

part of "the longest bar"

One of the few calm streets in the old city

Media Harbour is relatively new and trendy neighbourhood in Dusseldorf. While in the old city you can see mainly foreigners here are the local young people, expensive clubs and restaurants and of course the harbour with the lovely boats and yachts.

Interesting symbols of the city are the 3 modern style buildings, projected by a Canadian architect Frank Gehry. They have really distinctive architecture even one of them is made by stainless steel.

The yacht port

The first interesting building

The stainless steel one

And the white one

Dusseldorf is the German fashion capital. As well as in Paris and Milan, every year there is a fashion week and designers from all over the world present their new collections. Maybe this is why Königsallee is one of the most visited streets. This is the street of the shops, boutiques and malls, very close to the Old city.

Konigsalee with the channel

Now Dusseldorf is also popular with the fact that it will be the host for Eurovision (10-14 May 2011). The city will be crowded with artists, singers and people enjoying arts. But anyway it is used to be always crowded because of the International Exhibitions in the local Messe (Fair) that take place all the time. Near the Fair you can visit Nordpark, a lovely park in the north part of the city where is the Aqua zoo. Also there is a wonderful Japanese garden with unique trees and plants. By the way the biggest Japanese Community out of Japan is in Dusseldorf (around 30 000 people). Japanese have carried their culture and traditions and every year they celebrate Japanese day of culture.  

In Nordpark

The Japanese garden

In the Aqua zoo

No matter if you’re in Cologne, Bonn or Dusseldorf you should definitely take a walk along Rheine, a magnificent river. In the late afternoon hours, you can enjoy the sunset. But don’t forget to take your hat, especially if it is not summer time as the wind does not forgive. Unfortunately I could not get on the television tower although I was strongly advised to do so. People say the view is amazing.

The TV tower

Along the river

Sunset behind the bridge

A day trip to Kutna Hora from Prague

After 2 days in Prague we have decided to visit Kutna Hora,a small town-museum close to the capital.I thought that 4 hours would be enough to spend there so we decided to go with the train at 12.00 and visit Vysehrad first.(A tip - if you can afford it,I recommend a whole day in Kutna Hora,there is plenty to see). Vysehrad is a beautiful and green place(in early April) and great for walks,going through the gate,the Rotunda. We also entered the Cathedral and the cementary. At the end of the park there is a small summer theatre and then come the views . The castle is located on a hill and there is amazing view to Vlatava river and the building roofs.

The gate

The Rotunda

The summer theatre

A view from Vysehrad

The time passed very quickly so we hurried to the train station(by the way - very nice building and well organised,easy to orientate there).The journey took us an hour but we were exploring the nature through the window so I couldn't feel how we found ourselves there.(A tip - check the schedule only for direct trains.It is only 75 km far from Prague so you don't have to travel more than one hour.)

We walked to the center(around 45min) in stead of taking a bus(only 10min) and I recommend that walk because you can see the whole town and also you don't have to miss the main attraction - Kostnice . This is an ossuary which is decorated all inside with bones and skulls,all done by the monks of the monastery that used to be located there years ago.

In the ossuary

We continued to the town center where we visited the Italian Court, the Gothic church of St.James and then just hang out around the buildings.

The Cathedral

Italian court

It was time to go back and we took the bus to the train station.

We stayed one more day in Prague just enjoying the city,its streets,shops and restaurants. Since I turned from a tourist into a traveler I understood that besides the sighseeings and the famous places we have to pay attention on the little things - talk to local people,try their food and just forgetting about your map at least for a day.

Prague,my love - part one

Prague has always been like a dream for me - to feel its majestic power and see its ethernal beauties.

It was in January,2 years ago,when I called my friend in Nurnberg and told her :"Do you wanna meet in Prague in March?" She definitely loved the idea so we started to look for a hotel and I to search for the cheapest transport to bring me there.We found a great deal - hotel Vitkov(4*) got that promotion for 29 EUR per double room.For the end of March,only 10 min by tram from the center,it was a really good deal..

The day came,so me and my boyfriend took the bus from Sofia and started our 18 hours journey to Prague.We arrived at 5am,a little confused what to do in that hour but we managed to find tickets,got the bus and dropped our luggage in the hotel. Here we come,Pragueeeeeeee!

A view to the city

It was 7.30 when we stepped at Staromestke square,the main square in Prague. My dream came true! It was cold and windy but I was there and I didn't care for anything else at that moment.We took a coffee from the only one opened place and just enjoyed the sun,sitting next to the window and watching the beautiful square. Then we took a little walk through the narrow streets just enjoying the buildings.I have never seen so colourful facedes before!

The clock on Staromestke square

We met Stefka and Alex at 11.00 and proceeded to Hradčany,the Castle of Prague. As we choosed the south entrance,we had the opportunity to walk through the streets on the hill,leading us to the Castle. And here it came! It took us 4 hours to go around(and it was not enough at all) - St.Vinus Cathedral, Zlata ulica, Deliborka Tower,Vineyard and so on and so on. To be honest I think the most amazing of all was the view - to see the whole city - buildings,towers,beauty...

Hradcani

The day ended with a wonderful Czech beer. As all beer lovers know the beer must be German,Belgium or Czech. Just don't miss it.

The first place we had a beer

And then the next day came...

Bergamo through Laska's eyes

This article is written by Laska,a friend of mine.

So unexpectedly I have stumbled upon the beauty of the old town … it left me breathless;

 

A city as especially made for a postcard – having everything – history, architecture, landscape views; the quietness of the small town, tranquility.

The morning sunshine was showering a very special light over the buildings and the squares.

 

I could hear the soft noise of the steps of the early risers going to that corner café, which they know very well; I could smell the aroma of a fresh baked pastry;

So much beauty and calmness concentrated  on this tiny space called "Città Alta"; the narrow cobblestone streets; the charming balconies and the flower covered staircases; the cafes surrounding the old squares; the small red “funiculare” reaching the  Castle; the really strange pink  cathedral situated at the Plaza Duomo;

 

I fell in love – just like that;

Bergamo’s "Città Alta" is a place for visiting with a loved one; it is a place for long afternoons of lovemaking and easy mornings of sipping coffee under the Italian sun;

I am writing this and still cannot recover my breath I am so much filled with admiration of what I have seen;

I am here waiting for the aero bus and the conversations of the people are covering me as a silk medieval dress, so soothing and calming.

The far away noise of coffee cups and glasses being handled, the sun beams coming from the  tree top above me and the gentle touch of the wind is adding to my sense of longing:

 – to stand up  and shout against the mountains….

a cry of joy expressing the ultimate pleasure of being here at this time;

I have never imagined that at the end of a self discovering trip I would be given such an overwhelming experience! 

Author : Laska Nenova, thanks for sharing