Covering an area of over 43,000 hectares, Halong Bay in northeast Vietnam is known for its impressive seascape formed by thousands of limestone islands and islets. These towering pillars rise from the seabed like a defensive wall and locals believe that they are the vestige of a legendary battle.
Continue reading Halong: Bay of the Descending DragonStanding majestically on the Aravalli ranges, the forts of Jaipur have attracted admiration from far and wide. They are best known for their remarkable architecture which combines Rajput and Mughal elements. The fortresses reflect the glory of Rajput rulers and the expertise of Indian craftsmen.
Continue reading Jaipur Forts: Glory of the Rajput RulersJaipur is by no means India’s largest, grandest, or even oldest. Yet behind its earthy pink gates is an energetic city where markets, shops, and splendid architecture jostle against each other.
Continue reading Jaipur: Behind the Pink GatesThough located just 120 km from Agra, Gwalior only sees a minuscule share of tourists. The city rarely turns up in the itinerary of first-time visitors; many have never even heard of its name. However, those who travel to Gwalior will be astonished by the grandeur of its fort and palace.
Continue reading Gwalior: An Untapped TreasureWinter in Copenhagen might be dark and frosty. But during the Christmas season, the Danish capital is transformed into a wonderland. Dazzling decorations and a light extravaganza start lighting up the city. And hygge makes a comeback through steaming hot gløgg and delectable æbleskiver.
Continue reading A Delightful Christmas in CopenhagenThe Taj Mahal is undoubtedly the reason that draws millions of visitors to Agra. Yet it’s not the only monument built in the former imperial capital of the Mughal empire. Early rulers, from Akbar, Jahangir to Shah Jahan, preferred the city over Delhi. They furnished it with an imposing fort and a sprinkle of magnificent tombs and mausoleums.
Continue reading Agra: Beyond the Taj MahalFor many, the Taj Mahal is the most impressive monument built for love, an eternal testament to a husband’s devotion to his wife. For others, it represents the perfection of architectural planning and excellent craftsmanship. Regardless, the marble mausoleum is considered to be the icon of India and the greatest architectural achievement of the Mughal dynasty.
Continue reading Taj Mahal: An Architectural PerfectionDelhi is a city like no other. The capital of India had seen more warlords, conquerors, and emperors than most cities in the world. Each ruler constructed a new capital on, or near, the ruins of his predecessor, leaving today Delhi a mega city that is dotted with ancient monuments, gardens, and forts.
Continue reading The Mark of Empires in DelhiMost travelers to Hanoi know about its chaotic streets, its vibrant food scene, and perhaps the 20th-century wars that shape today’s Vietnam. But not many realize that this city has a rich history, dating back as far as the 11th century. It weaves through the historic core like a thread and is waiting to be discovered by those with keen eyes.
Continue reading The Soul of Old HanoiThough less traveled than the southern beaches and the spiritual heart of Ubud, East Bali possesses numerous cultural and natural attractions. From majestic volcanoes, and pristine beaches to richly ornate temples, exploring this region is a true pleasure.
Continue reading East Bali: The Part Less TraveledLooking at the map of the Netherlands, Groningen seems a long way from everywhere. Only a handful of travelers venture to this northeast corner and few have written about it. But there are so many things to discover in this city, from the beautiful train station, the picturesque old town, to the vividly colorful marina. Each nook and cranny of Groningen seems to have a story to tell.
Continue reading Groningen: An Unexpected DiscoveryWith spectacular architecture, leafy parks, and wide Italianate avenues, Munich is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about the mighty Kingdom of Bavaria.
Continue reading Munich and Bavarian Kings’ HeritageFor all the world, Seoul is a megacity filled with skyscrapers and high-tech facilities. It’s widely known as South Korea’s powerhouse and the origin of Hallyu and K-pop. However, hidden beneath this modern facade are 600-years-old history and traditions. These values coexist with everyday city life, creating an identity for one of Asia’s most exciting cities.
Continue reading Joseon Dynasty through Architecture in Seoul
