Tag: Architecture
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Colorful Cologne
Rick and I finished our trip to the Czech Republic and Germany with three nights in Cologne. The train journey from Berlin takes less than five hours and offers stunning views of the countryside along the way. We choose the CityClass Hotel am Dom due to its proximity to the train station, the Rhine River,…
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Bustling Bordeaux
Rick and I finished 2023 with a trip to Bordeaux shortly before Christmas. As we already had tickets to see the amazing Beatles Tribute band The Analogues, we decided to stay a few extra days to visit the Christmas Market at Allées de Tourny. Our small but very well-appointed apartment was located on a pedestrian…
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A Special Day In Marseille
After a rocky night at sea, we woke to a beautiful sunny day in Marseille, France. Founded around 600 BC by Greek settlers from Phocaea, Marseille is the oldest city in France. It is also the second largest in population after Paris. With over three hundred days of sunshine per year, 35 miles (57 kilometers)…
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Beautiful Bussaco
What comes to mind when you envision the country of Portugal? Sandy beaches, palm trees, and crystal blue waters? Rolling hills covered in grapevines? Large cities and small villages? Yes, it has all those things and so much more. Similar in size to the US state of Indiana, Portugal is a wonder of varied climates,…
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A Tale of Two Palaces (Part Two)
The Palace of Monserrate has a long history of famous occupants and guests. In 1790, wealthy diamond merchant Gerard de Visme built the first Neo-Gothic palace on the ruins of the old chapel of Our Lady of Monserrate. In the mid-1790’s, British novelist and art collector William Beckford became the new tenant. During his stay…
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A Tale of Two Palaces (Part One)
With its proximity to Lisbon, favorable climate, and lush natural beauty it’s no wonder why Sintra attracted both royals and the rich as THE spot to build their palaces. It is also one of the most romantic spots in Portugal, where kings and queens have fallen in love and where writers such as Lord Byron…