“Les Misérables is a book for all people, in all nations. I cannot say if everyone will read it, but I wrote it for everyone.” ~ Victor Hugo, in an 1862 letter to his publisher, M. Daelli In the heart of Paris, surrounded by the city’s lively streets, lies Place des Vosges – a stunningly…
Casa Batlló, one of several Modernista buildings on the Illa de la Discórdia north of Barcelona’s old town, is a fairytale-like masterpiece. With its iridescent rooftop resembling a dragon’s scaly spine, a façade featuring funky shapes, vibrant colors, carnival mask-like balconies, and bone-like pillars, this unique historical home is a must-see attraction. The original late-19th…
Nestled along the rugged Costa Brava, or “Wild Coast,” in the Catalonia region of Spain, lies the enchanting village of Cadaqués. This picturesque community, with its whitewashed buildings, fishing boats, and stunning Mediterranean Sea views, is the perfect destination for a slow and relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. Location and Accessibility…
Just across the River IJ from Amsterdam’s historic center lies a unique spot called the NDSM Werf. This former shipyard, once the largest in Europe, has been transformed into a vibrant arts and culture hub. Here’s why it’s worth a visit. From Shipbuilding to Street Art The NDSM Werf was home to the Nederlands Dok…
Planning a trip from Florence to San Gimignano and then on to Siena? While there’s conflicting information out there, we’ve done the research and checked with locals to bring you the most convenient and cost-effective way to make this journey. The secret? The bus! Why the Bus is Best While you could take a train…
If you’re looking to journey from the bustling port city of Marseille to the charming fishing village of Cassis, the train is your best bet. It’s quick, affordable, and straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you from Marseille’s Gare de Saint-Charles to the heart of Cassis. Catching the Train Make your way to the…
When you’re roaming the charming streets of Amsterdam’s Jordaan district, you’ll need some good eats to fuel your steps. Here are a few spots that won’t break the bank, all a short stroll from the cozy Hotel Van Onna. Boca’s: Tapas and Tipples For a laid-back neighborhood vibe, head to Boca’s. This friendly joint serves…
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the sun-drenched town of Arles in southern France is a must, for it was here that the legendary Vincent van Gogh found the radiant light that would forever transform his artistic vision. Van Gogh’s Provençal Awakening After arriving in Arles in the winter of 1888, Van Gogh was immediately…
One of Germany’s most enchanting journeys unfurls along the serpentine Mosel River, winding through a scenic valley cloaked in vine-draped slopes and adorned with storybook villages, mighty medieval castles, and historic riverside towns. Among the countless routes that crisscross this storied land, the Mosel River Wine Road between Koblenz and Trier stands as a true…
If you’re traveling to Paris from Northern Europe, chances are you’ll pass through Gare du Nord. This sprawling train station, also known as Paris-Nord, is the busiest in the French capital. Whether you’re arriving from the UK, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, or the Netherlands, Gare du Nord is your key to unlocking the city. Getting Around…