A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
One of Canada’s fastest growing cities, Barrie sits along the western shore of Lake Simcoe on Kempenfelt Bay. The city is approximately 90 kilometers north of Toronto, making it easily accessible from the larger metropolis.
Individuals captivated by medieval history will find themselves in an ideal setting in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Regensburg, where 1,500 registered monuments have endured through the ages. During the period of the Holy Roman Empire, Regensburg was the venue for the Imperial Diet, allowing visitors to stand in the very space where some of Europe’s most influential leaders congregated.
Located in southern Lower Saxony, Göttingen is a university city nestled in the Leine Valley. The city’s vibrant atmosphere is largely influenced by the presence of the University of Göttingen, which was established in 1734 by King George II of England and Elector of Hanover, making it the oldest university in Lower Saxony.
Not far from the coast, this Alentejo town is defined by the walls of its medieval castle. Originally constructed by the Moors, the castle ranks among the few historical landmarks worth noting. Another prominent site is the Roman settlement of Miróbriga, which features the remnants of Portugal’s sole Roman hippodrome.
The Saxon city of Zwickau is often referred to as “Automobil- und Robert-Schumann-Stadt” (City of Cars and Robert Schumann). While longer in phrasing, this title encapsulates two significant aspects of Zwickau: the renowned 19th-century composer Robert Schumann was born here, and his birthplace hosts an intriguing museum dedicated to his life and his relationship with the talented pianist Clara Wieck.
In 1648, Osnabrück played a crucial role in concluding the Thirty Years’ War when the Peace of Westphalia treaty was signed between Sweden and the Habsburgs. Today, this city in Lower Saxony is recognized as Friedensstadt (City of Peace) and visitors can explore the historic Town Hall where the treaty was established.
Situated on the right bank of the Rhine between Cologne and Düsseldorf, Leverkusen has only emerged as an urban center since 1975, following the incorporation of several towns and districts from the Bergisches Land into a single city.
Located just 15 kilometers north of Nuremberg in Middle Franconia lies the city of Erlangen. The history of this city notably commenced in the 1680s following the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, which led to the expulsion of the Huguenots from France. Many of these refugees were welcomed into Erlangen, prompting the construction of a planned Baroque city to accommodate the rapidly growing population.
Prior to 1844, Ludwigshafen consisted mainly of swamps, a fortress, and several villages situated on the left bank of the Rhine. However, with the advent of industrialization and the growth of chemical enterprises such as BASF, a city emerged just opposite Mannheim.
A hair’s breadth from the French border in Southwestern Germany, Saarbrücken combines industrial history with the grandeur of the Counts and Princes of Nassau-Saarbrücken who governed the region for centuries.
In North Rhine-Westphalia, Mönchengladbach is a city consisting of several boroughs surrounding the historic towns of Gladbach and Rheydt. A key feature of this area is its rich array of green spaces; Mönchengladbach is filled with parks such as the Bunter Garten, which bisects Gladbach. Among these parks are medieval estates that encompass Baroque and Renaissance palaces like Schloss Rheydt and Schloss Wickrath.
If you possess a fondness for port wine, Peso da Régua in the UNESCO-listed Douro Valley is a destination you will appreciate. The town is situated along the river in a unique and picturesque amphitheater created by high shale slopes, featuring wine terraces meticulously carved from the rock.
The city of Trier, situated by the Moselle River, dates back to 16 BC when it was known as Augustus Treverorum. As Germany’s oldest city, it has successfully preserved its Roman heritage. Today, Trier is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing remarkable structures such as the largest Roman gate outside of Italy, a palace hall established by Emperor Constantine, and an impressive bathing complex.
In the 8th century, the First Holy Roman Emperor Charlemagne established Paderborn around the numerous springs that nourish the River Pader. Paderborn continues to be a city rich in Medieval heritage, featuring a cathedral that houses the relics of the 4th-century Saint Liborius.
The northernmost municipality in the Ruhr industrial region, Recklinghausen is a former mining city situated on the northern bank of the Rhine-Herne Canal. The southern part of Recklinghausen, in proximity to the canal, showcases significant industrial heritage, including the tallest spoil tip in the Ruhr and the headframe of the Zeche Recklinghausen II mine. However, as you venture northward, the industrial landscape transitions to an expanse of arable farmland and picturesque villages.
Up there with Germany’s most favored tourist locations, Heidelberg is a historic university town that has remained intact since the 18th century. The city is renowned for its Baroque architecture and stunning ruins of the Renaissance castle, which served as the residence for the Imperial Prince Electors of Heidelberg for centuries.
The eastern region of Alentejo, located near the Spanish border, underwent a significant transformation in the early 2000s when the Alqueva Dam was constructed. This project resulted in the impoundment of the Guadiana River, leading to the creation of a vast reservoir. Despite its artificial origins, the reservoir and its surroundings boast breathtaking views, complemented by a beach and a watersport center.
Designated as ‘The Natural State,’ Arkansas is located in the southeastern region of the United States, with the Mississippi River forming a significant portion of its eastern boundary. The state is generally divided into two main geographical regions: lowlands and highlands, each showcasing its distinct natural allure. The Ozarks and the Ouachita Mountains are prominently situated in the northwestern part of Arkansas, while the lowlands are positioned within the Mississippi River Alluvial Plain.
Situated on a plateau in the Norte region, Paços de Ferreira is a small municipality characterized by its industrious environment. Since the 1800s, the furniture industry has been the predominant employer, with the town serving as the Portuguese headquarters for Ikea manufacturing. A furniture museum located in the former town hall offers a comprehensive exploration of Paços de Ferreira’s exceptional craftsmanship in woodwork.
Departing from Lisbon’s western suburbs and ascending into Sintra feels like entering an entirely different dimension. This town is nestled within a verdant mountainous landscape filled with palatial estates, parks, and a medieval fortress. At its heart lies the Palace of Sintra, a former residence of the Portuguese monarchy, which is merely one of the many splendid sites that will captivate your senses.