Chapultepec Castle stands at the top of Chapultepec Hill, overlooking the capital of Mexico City. It seems strange to have a neo-classical, European-looking castle in the middle of the metropolitan and modern downtown. As out of place as it seems, amongst the bright and colourful architecture of Mexico City, the charm of Chapultepec still draws people in. The Castle is still one of the most visited landmarks in Mexico City.
During the winter months, so many of us pine for the hot sun and relief of blistering wind chill. So it’s rare that we would seek out a winter vacation anywhere that doesn’t involve sunlight and warm weather. But, for the first time in my life, I decided to opt to travel to the cold and darkened streets of wintery Scandinavia over the holidays. And if that doesn’t sound appealing to you, I implore you to read on! I was utterly mesmerized by winter in Scandinavia and found it to be absolutely magical.
Standing inside the Piazza del Duomo, is the most famous structure in Florence; the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Although if you want to sound like a local, just call it the “Duomo.” The bright white marble exteriors, trimmed in green and pink stone, are so unique and iconically Florentine. If there were a beating heart to this city, it would live right here. Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur, the history or the spiritual power of these buildings, visiting these sites in Florence is almost a right of passage. But many people come here and gaze upon this building without really understanding the context behind it’s construction and artistry. Through this post, I hope to help illuminate some of those mysteries and perhaps help you appreciate these attractions for more than just their beauty.
When people ask me for something fun and unique to do in Mexico City, the first thing that comes to mind is Sunday mornings, riding down car-free Paseo de la Reforma. This experience is both a fantastic sightseeing opportunity but also an excellent chance to interact with cheery locals, out enjoying their city.
The Condesa Tianguis market is only once a week, on Tuesdays, which made it even more special that I had just happened upon it. The market runs along Pachuca street from Agustín Melgar Calle south to Calle Juan Escutia. They shut this entire road down from traffic for the day, and it feels like it completely transforms the feeling of the neighbourhood. It changes from just another side street to a lively traditional shopping experience. The market opens at 10 am and closes at 5 pm.
Cooking classes are so enjoyable both in terms of getting to make delicious food, but also to learn about the history behind those dishes. But Casa Jacaranda offers more than just a cooking class. It’s a whole day of activities, discoveries, learning opportunities and a chance to make new friends.
Whether you’re drawn to the grandeur, the history or the spiritual power of these buildings, visiting these sites in Florence is almost a right of passage. But many people come here and gaze upon these buildings without really understanding the context behind their construction and artistry. Through this post, I hope to help illuminate some of those mysteries and perhaps help you appreciate these attractions for more than just their beauty.
The Basilica Santa Croce is one of the most important architectural and historical masterpieces of Florentine art you’ll find in the magnificent Renaissance city of Florence. Its iconic structure overpowers the square and seems to beckon visitors to come inside. Whereas some people are disappointed in visiting the interiors of the Duomo, this church is thoroughly fantastical, inside and out! I’ve attached at the bottom of this post a handy google map of all the different spots on this tour for easy-to-follow directions!
One of the best things to indulge in during the Halloween season is to make a little trip out to one of the many ghosts towns that are spread out across America. Jerome is the perfect, small ghost town to visit on any road trip through Arizona or even as a day trip from Phoenix, Prescott or Tucson. Even outside the Halloween season this town is full of spooks and scares but there’s just something about it in October that feels all the more macabre. Whether you’re staying overnight or just driving through, this spooky guide will help you take in all the haunted sights, sounds and scary delights that this old mining village has to offer!
One of the best ways to get you into this spooky season is a walk around a local cemetery. Cemeteries are often viewed as sombre places to avoid, nothing that a happy traveller would seek out on their next exciting adventure. While they are places of reflection and respect, the dead have a lot to say about the living. Since the dawn of time, the way in which we house, dispose and care for our dead reflects the kind of society, culture and people that lived during that specific time period. While not all of us may love art, or food or sports, what we all have in common is that we will all die. Cemeteries are a place where people or all kinds can come together, for eternity.
Coyoacán is one of the most colourful and yet quiet neighbourhoods in Mexico City. Coyoacán is the place I come to escape the crowds and relax in some of the most beautiful parks and meander down the most vibrant streets. Coyoacán was the home of Frida Kahlo throughout her entire life. It’s no surprise why she chose to stick around this bohemian community rather than move into the bustling city centre. Every park, house and street corner is busting with energy and natural artistry.