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Cognac Brew

March 12th, 2018

Cognac Brew

Just a short distance away from the city of Bordeaux, in the west of France, lies the town of Cognac. Like much of the region, the surrounding fields are dedicated to grown grapes. However, unlike nearby Bordeaux, these grapes are destined for an entirely different purpose: brandy. This type of brandy is extremely special, and only in this location can it be called “cognac”. In order to achieve the drink, for which this region is famous, the grapes must be double distilled and aged in oak – a lengthy process, especially since the highest quality (XO) is aged for upwards of 10 years. Each vineyard has its own special recipe and blend to achieve a unique taste. Regardless, the result will be outstanding!

Scottish Isles

March 7th, 2018

Scottish Isles

Scotland, with its moors, lochs and heather is home to more sheep than people. Another feature of the Scottish landscape are its islands. There are over 790 isles along the coast, ranging from bits of uninhabited rock to patches of land measuring thousands of square kilometers. Regardless of the size, each has its own unique personality and wildlife. The Isle of Mull, for example, is a mountainous island. It is known for the colorful waterfront of its largest city, Tobermory. The single malt whisky produced there is also an added attraction for visitors!

Green Shanghai

February 13th, 2018

Green Shanghai

Shanghai, China has embraced the modern era, and become a city filled with skyscrapers. However, there still exist some pockets of greenery, such as the Yuyuan Garden. This garden was first constructed in the 1570s, as the finest example in the region. Contained in 5 acres of land are rock gardens, ponds with koi, and many traditional examples of Chinese architecture. Centuries haven’t dimmed its grandeur! Through rebellions and wars, the gardens have continued to thrive, and in 1982 were declared a national monument. Well worth a visit, to relax from the bustling downtown.

Hampton Court

January 30th, 2018

Hampton Court

On the outskirts of London, you can find a monument to royal ambitions, known as Hampton Court. Founded by a religious order, in 1514 the site was taken over by the Archbishop of York, who began to expand it into a palace. The Archbishop did not have long to enjoy his finished masterpiece, but gave Hampton Court to King Henry VIII as a gift in 1528 – an effort to survive Tudor politics. Henry lost no time in expanding and remodeling, leaving behind a truly massive palace. Of his successors, it was King William III and Queen Mary II who spent the most time in Hampton Court. They began renovations to turn the Tudor relic into a Baroque masterpiece in the 1680s. However, before they could finish, Mary died, and William lost interest in the project. King George II (1683-1769) was the last monarch to use the palace, and thus no further renovations were made. These days, it is a snapshot of Tudor and Baroque architecture on a massive scale, set in formal gardens. In other words, a perfect place to wander on a sunny day.

Charming York

January 16th, 2018

Charming York

The city of York, in northern England, is surrounded by medieval walls, which tell of its rich past. Founded as a Roman city in 71 AD, the city remained a power in the north for many centuries and for many different kingdoms. During that time, trade played a large part in York’s history, as it was situated on the river Ouse. However, today it is the medieval charm of the city which draws tourists: from the stone walls to the impressive York Minster – an example of Gothic architecture at its best. Not every building survived intact, and within the walls, travelers can also find the ruins of monasteries and other relics. Altogether, it makes York a wonderful place to step back through time.

Green Oasis in London

January 4th, 2018

Green Oasis in London

Kew Gardens, on the outskirts of London, are a true oasis from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The study of botany owes a great deal to the efforts at Kew, where British scientists have amassed an impressive collection of plants from around the world. A collection of this size – 300 acres – does not happen overnight, but has been the culmination of centuries of work. The vast park originated as a royal residence, with the first semblance of the gardens appearing in 1772. Over time, Kew transitioned from a fashionable park for the nobility, while managing to retain some of the quirky additions (like a Chinese pagoda from 1761). Many of the original greenhouses, from the 1840s, also survive along with the many plants that were brought across the globe. It is well worth a visit to wander through the magnificent collection: from palms to cacti, grasslands to alpine rock gardens.

Vatican City Treasures

November 28th, 2017

Vatican City Treasures

While Vatican City, located in the heart of Rome, may be the smallest state in the World, at only 110 acres, it is packed with treasures. This city state was established in 1929, when the Catholic popes gave up secular power over their lands (the Papal States), to complete the unification of Italy. Many structures grace this tiny state, but the Vatican Museums have earned the right to be considered most famous. They house many notable antiquities amassed by the popes over centuries. Founded in the 16th century, the museum is more like a maze of richly decorated rooms filled with priceless artworks. It is worth taking some time to examine each room. Masters such as Rafael, Titan, and Michelangelo grace the space and courtyards and hallways are filled with Roman sculpture and decorated in rich marble and mosaics. The most famous work in the Vatican Museums, however, is found in the very last room: the Sistine Chapel. To truly appreciate everything would require at least a week, but even a quick visit will leave a lasting impression!

Ljubljana Style

November 13th, 2017

Ljubljana Style

At the center of Slovenia sits Ljubljana, the capital city and also the largest. Rumor has it that on this site, the Argonauts slayed a dragon. Whether you believe it or not, the city definitely dates back to antiquity. However, there is very little evidence of that at street level today. In 1895, Ljubljana was nearly leveled by a massive earthquake. Rebuilding began soon afterwards, and what emerged in the early 1900s was a truly unique masterpiece. With wide boulevards and beautiful architecture, such as the Robba fountain at the city center, it is no wonder that this city has become a popular tourist destination.

Spires in Sigmaringen Germany

November 6th, 2017

Spires in Sigmaringen Germany

If you find yourself in the south of Germany, the town of Sigmaringen may be worth visiting. Small and charming, it exemplifies stately architecture – and the skyline is nothing short of breathtaking! The many spires belong chiefly to Sigmaringen castle, which has occupied its rocky ledge above the city as far back as the 11th century. This very stately residence was largely rebuilt in the mid-1800s to be a destination for royalty and the rich in Europe. It wasn’t a far stretch, as the princes had their own claim to royalty. In fact, the reigning prince was offered the Spanish crown in 1868 – an offer which caused quite a stir. The prince eventually declined, after much political maneuvering, but it still precipitated the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871). These days, the castle is still an elegant destination, offering glimpses into a different time and a lifestyle not many will experience!

Guernsey and the Channel

October 22nd, 2017

Guernsey and the Channel

While many hear the name Guernsey and conjure up images of a cow, the Isle of Guernsey lies in the English Channel off the coast of Normandy. While it is tied to Great Britain, its proximity to mainland Europe has given it a unique history. Not surprisingly, given that it is an island, the population has long held ties to the water. Over the centuries of war between France and Britain, privateering became a key source of revenue, although tourism has since replaced it in the island’s economy. It is little wonder that the harbor of St. Peter Port (the capital of Guernsey) is well developed, and in a stroll along the piers you can see, not only the ships, but Coronet Castle with its grim fortifications, and the quaint lighthouse jutting into the Channel.

 

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