A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
Washington State is often regarded as one of the most picturesque locations in the United States, characterized by its mountain ranges, deep fjords, temperate rainforests, and expansive Pacific coastline. The Cascade Range traverses the state from east to west, with the eastern region being drier and flatter, while the western part is adorned with mountains, volcanoes, and lush forests.
Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage City nestled in Upper Franconia, is distinguished by its location on seven hills. Often referred to as the “Rome of Franconia,” this historical seat of episcopal authority offers an impressive vista from Domplatz, featuring the remarkable cathedral with its four towers alongside the Baroque and Medieval palaces of Bamberg’s powerful Prince Bishops.
As one approaches the city of Meissen in Saxony, the first sight is the Burgberg, which rises prominently over the Elbe River. Known as castle hill, the Burgberg was the location where its founder, Henry the Fowler, established a fortress against the Slavs during the 10th century.
Situated along the Danube River from Belgrade, Smederevo is a city once intended to be Serbia’s capital in the 15th century, just prior to Ottoman conquest. The formidable fortress constructed by Despot Đurađ Branković has withstood centuries of turmoil, including a devastating explosion during the Second World War.
Varna, the third-largest city in Bulgaria, is a prominent Black Sea port that has served as a summer destination for everyone from Bulgarian aristocracy to youthful vacationers for over a century. Those in their late teens and 20s can explore the vibrant bars and nightclubs, while individuals of all ages will discover diverse attractions suited to their preferences.
Idaho is renowned for its unspoiled beauty, predominantly characterized by pristine mountainous landscapes. This state is home to a substantial portion of the Rocky Mountains, the Snake River Plain, and the Great Basin, with 38 percent of its area preserved by the United States Forest Service, more than any other state in the nation. This statistic emphasizes yet again the breathtaking and picturesque nature of Idaho.
Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, is situated on the banks of the Danube River, positioned between Belgrade and Budapest, both of which have historically influenced the region. By Serbian standards, Novi Sad is relatively recent, having developed as a prominent trading hub in the 18th century across from the formidable Petrovaradin Fortress, an Austro-Hungarian stronghold. In the 1700s and 1800s, the city emerged as an unofficial center for Serbian cultural identity, although this progress was momentarily halted during the 1848 Revolution when the Hungarian garrison at the fortress inflicted significant damage to the city.
Since the days of the Roman Empire, the city of Niš has served as an unofficial boundary between East and West. One prominent historical figure associated with this divide was the Roman Emperor Constantine, who was born in ancient Naissus and later established a “New Rome” in Constantinople. The Ottomans held dominion over Niš from the Middle Ages until the 19th century, leaving behind a formidable fortress that houses a 16th-century mosque.
In the fertile farmland of the Leskovian Valley, the southern city of Leskovac garners national recognition every October for its “Roštiljijada”. This event can be best described as an extensive barbecue, permeating the air with the scent of charcoal smoke and grilled meats throughout the city’s central boulevard. Meat enthusiasts from all corners of the country gather to indulge in kebabs, Serbian-style burgers, and a variety of delectable char-grilled meats.
It is evident to identify the period during which Subotica in northern Serbia experienced its zenith. This culturally rich city showcases an impressive array of Art Nouveau edifices and palatial structures dating back to the early 20th century. The pièce de résistance is the City Hall, distinguished by its remarkable 45-metre tower; however, this is just one of the many architectural wonders that warrant inclusion in your sightseeing itinerary.
Kruševac, the medieval capital of Serbia, is situated in the Rasina Region at the heart of the country. This contemporary urban center is rich in both new and historical evidence pointing to its former prominence.
With a name denoting “Royal City” in Serbo-Croatian, Kraljevo is a site where the nation’s medieval monarchs were crowned. This significant ceremony took place at Žiča, a splendid 13th-century monastery located on the outskirts of the city, adorned with original frescoes.
Located in Thuringia, Gera is a historical textile city nestled in the Weiße Elster River valley. The city was governed for several centuries by the House of Reuß-Gera and served as the capital of a sovereign state until 1919. The antique monuments associated with the Reuß family, including their orangery and former castle, now attract visitors.
Located on Düsseldorf’s northeast edge, Ratingen is a prosperous city that serves as the headquarters for numerous international computer brands and high-tech manufacturers. The innovative atmosphere of Ratingen dates back to the 18th century when it became home to the first cotton spinning mill in mainland Europe.
Germany’s premier naval port is situated on the western edge of the Jade Bight, a picturesque natural harbor on the North Sea. Wilhelmshaven was established by Kaiser Wilhelm I in 1869 and continues to hold the distinction of being the country’s largest naval base.
Slovenia’s third-largest city is situated in the Lower Savinja Valley, surrounded by towering, forested hills. Dominating one peak to the south is Celje’s Old Castle, the historic stronghold of the Counts of Celje, who governed a significant portion of Slovenian territory during the medieval period. The panoramic view of the city from these ancient walls is impressive, and the castle’s towers narrate tales of familial intrigue and star-crossed romance in the era of the Counts.
Bulgaria’s capital possesses a multitude of narratives, and each historical site offers a unique insight into Sofia’s complex heritage. The churches, which have transitioned from mosques over the centuries, the striking Soviet architecture, and the ongoing revelations of Roman history coexist harmoniously within the modern city.
Austin, the trendy capital of Texas, is increasingly regarded as the southeastern counterpart to the San Francisco Bay Area.
South Bend is recognized for being the fourth largest city in the state of Indiana, in addition to showcasing a vibrant and diverse community in the Midwest.
Woodbridge Township in Middlesex County in New Jersey comprises 10 charming all-American towns, including Avenel, Colonia, Fords, Hopelawn, Iselin, Keasbey, Menlo Park Terrace, Port Reading, Sewaren, and Woodbridge itself.