San Marino may be tiny but it’s the only surviving medieval commune in Italy. The microstate has maintained relative peace throughout most of history, thanks to its mountainous landscape and political shrewdness.
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Rome: Remnants of the Eternal City
Despite its humble beginning, ancient Rome was the cradle of Western civilization. Its rule spread over dozens of modern-day countries, with up to 100 million population. Though two millenniums have passed since its heydays, evidence of this grand city is still very much alive in remnants across the Italian capital, from palaces, and temples, to the marvelous Colosseum.
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Zurich: A Closer Look
Given its reputation for being the center of finance and banking, Zurich is often omitted from many tourists’ itineraries. Most spend several hours here before heading to the surrounding hills or more picturesque towns. But look closely, you will realize there are a few reasons why Switzerland’s wealthiest city deserves attention, including beautiful architecture, spectacular vistas, and amazing museums.
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Luxembourg Old Town: An Oasis in the Heart of the City
Amidst such a vast green landscape, it is hard to believe that you are standing at the heart of a metropolis. But here in the Old Town of Luxembourg City – the capital of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, you will be able to enjoy nature at its finest.
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Hoi An: The Beauty of an Ancient Port Town
Faded ochre buildings draped with bougainvillea, colorful paper lanterns hung beautifully across the street, Hoi An is certainly one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric destinations. Adding to that is a blend of local and foreign influences which can be traced back centuries ago.
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Bruges: Where The Time Stands Still
Nothing seems to have changed in Bruges since the Medieval Age. The capital of West Flander in northwest Belgium looks for all the world as though it has been plucked from the pages of a medieval fairy tale with picturesque cobblestoned lanes, beautiful canals, and marvelous centuries-old buildings.
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Prague: The Charms of Czech Capital
Since the collapse of the Iron Curtain in 1989 and the opening up of Central and Eastern Europe, Prague has risen as one of the most attractive travel destinations in Europe. With an incredibly beautiful medieval core and vibrant city life, it is not difficult to understand why millions of visitors are lured to the Czech capital each year.
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Bayeux: A Stopover in the Town of Miracles
On the way from Paris to Mont Saint Michel, I made a stopover at Bayeux. It’s a small town in Calvados, just 10 kilometers from the Channel coast. As the witness of two cross-Channel invasions (the Norman Conquest of England and Operation Overlord), almost 900 years apart, Bayeux certainly plays a decisive role in Western history. But the historical value was not the only reason that drew us to this town…
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