Travel Destinations In Rome

The name “Ancient Rome” refers to the major Italian city of Rome and the empire it eventually came to control, which included much of western Europe and the whole Mediterranean basin. When it was at its largest, it spanned from what is now northern England to southern Egypt and from the Atlantic coast to the Persian Gulf beaches.

Since the historical histories of Rome were not written until much later, the regal period (753-509 BC) and the early republic (509-280 BC) are the periods of Roman history with the least amount of written records. Greek historians did not pay Rome much attention until the Pyrrhic War (280–275 BC) when Rome was completing its conquest of Italy and was engaged in combat with the Greek city of Tarentum in southern Italy. Quintus Fabius Pictor, a senator who lived and wrote during the Second Punic War, was the first native historian of Rome (218–201 BC).

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Take a trip to Rome

The arch of Constantine Rome

Vespasian started the structure in AD 72, and his son Titus expanded it by adding the fourth level. It was dedicated in AD 80 with a series of magnificent games. The Colosseum was big enough to host events like plays, festivals, circuses, or games, which the Imperial Court and important government figures viewed from the lowest level, aristocratic Roman families from the second level, and the general public from the third and fourth levels.

The Arch of Constantine, a triumphal arch erected by the Senate to honor the emperor as “liberator of the city and bringer of peace” following his victory in the battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312, stands next to the Colosseum and is almost as well-known.

Roman Forum

Walking through the forum, which is currently in the middle of a bustling modern metropolis, is like going back in time by two millennia to the center of ancient Rome. The standing and fallen columns, its triumphal arches, and the remnants of its walls still impress, even though what remains of this center of Roman life and government only represents a small portion of its former splendor. This is especially true when you consider that for centuries, the history of the Forum was the history of the Roman Empire and the Western world.

After the seventh century, the structures started to deteriorate, and churches were constructed in the archaic ruins. Its stones were mined for other structures, and it wasn’t until the 18th and 19th centuries that methodical excavations revealed the ancient structures that had hidden beneath a 10-meter layer of dirt and debris.

Palatine Hill

The Palatine Hill, also known as Monte Palatino in Italian, is a four-sided plateau that rises 168 feet (51 meters) above sea level and 131 feet (40 meters) south of the Forum in Rome. It is 5,700 feet in circumference (1,740 meters). On the Palatine, where the city of Rome was established, prehistoric and imperial palace ruins and other archaeological finds have been discovered.

Rome’s center includes Palatine Hill, which is conveniently reachable on a walk. The Circo Massimo Metro station is the closest and is 12 minute’s walk from the Colosseo tram and bus stop.

Trevi Fountain

The famous tourist attraction in the city, this 17th-century masterpiece has been featured in so many films that seeing it is now almost required. It is customary to deposit one coin (not three) into the Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain) to ensure your return to Rome.

The largest fountain in Rome, the Fontana di Trevi, was first built by Agrippa, a famous art patron in the first century BC, to supply water to his baths. Nicola Salvi built the fountain between 1732 and 1751 for Pope Clement XII.

 It reflects Neptune, the sea god with horses, tritons, and shells. The water accumulates in a huge bowl filled with coins as it swirls around the sculptures and fake rocks.

Piazza Navona

Piazza Navona, one of Rome’s most recognizable Baroque squares, still bears the outline of the Roman stadium that Emperor Domitian erected there. It is still used for celebrations and horse races. Borromini, who also created the splendid row of palaces and the cathedral of Sant’Agnese on its west side, reconstructed it in the Baroque style.

The Miracle of St. Agnes by Alessandro Algardi was painted in 1653, and there are also the ruins of a Roman mosaic floor in the Sant’Agnese crypt. For churches in Italy and other countries, Sant’Agnese served as a model for Baroque and Rococo styles.

The Fontana del Moro, built by Giacomo Della Porta in the sixteenth century in front of the Palazzo Pamphili, and the Fontana del Nettuno, a Neptune-adorned fountain from the nineteenth century, are the other two fountains on the square. The square is currently crowded with Romans, visitors, street performers, gift shops, cafés, and one of Rome’s best Christmas markets in December.

The National Museum of Sant’Angelo Castle

Castel Sant’Angelo is a huge drum-shaped building with a view of the Tiber that was built in AD 135 as a mausoleum for Emperor Hadrian and his family close to the Vatican. Castel Sant’Angelo has been utilized as a castle, a papal residence, and most recently as a national museum during its 2,000-year history.

Emperor Aurelian built it into his new network of city walls in AD 271 to take advantage of its location guarding the city’s northern entrances.

The castle is accessible through a pedestrian bridge flanked with angel statues by Bernini, and visitors use a spiral ramp to access its five stories.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon, the best-preserved Roman antique structure, is impressively unaltered after 2000 years. Pope Urban VIII scraped and melted down its bronze roof to make the canopy over the altar of St. Peter’s and cannons for Castel Sant’Angelo, despite Pope Gregory III removing the roof’s gilded bronze tiles.

The dome appears to have three continuous arcades, and from the outside, you can see the brick arches that helped to distribute part of the weight of the dome’s stress. Fine marble was once used to face these outside walls, but it has been removed over time.

After a fire damaged the Pantheon in AD 80 was rebuilt, and the masonry that resulted demonstrates Roman builders’ exceptionally high technical mastery. The crowning feat of Roman interior architecture, its 43-meter dome hangs suspended without any discernible support.

Amsterdam, Netherlands: A Glimpse into the City of Canals

Amsterdam: a city that feels like a blend of a dreamy painting and a lively town square. It’s famous for its canals, but there’s so much more waiting to be explored.

  1. The Canals
    Imagine cruising along serene waterways lined with tall, narrow houses, their reflections dancing in the water. As you float by, bicycles clink along cobbled paths, and bridges arch gracefully overhead. The canals aren’t just water; they’re the very essence of Amsterdam. 
  1. Art District
    In the heart of the city lies its proud art district. Here, majestic buildings like the Van Gogh Museum stand tall, housing art that spans centuries. But even if art isn’t your thing, the architecture and the energy here are captivating enough on their own.
  1. De Wallen’s Secrets
    Beyond the bright lights of De Wallen lies a treasure of hidden gems. Quaint cafes where locals chat away, age-old churches standing tall amidst the hustle, and alleyways that whisper tales of yesteryears. It’s a place of contrasts and surprises.

Conclusion
Amsterdam is a beautiful tapestry of history, art, and daily life. Every corner promises a new story. Why not see it for yourself? …

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada: A Simple Guide to Some Neighborhoods

Thinking about Vancouver? It’s quite the city with some neighborhoods worth chatting about. Let me share a bit about a few of them. 

  1. Yaletown: A Cool Transformation:
    Yaletown has an interesting past. It started with trains and warehouses, and look at it now: a bustling spot with cafes, restaurants, and some old rail tracks still there for a hint of nostalgia. A place where history cozily meets the present. 
  1. Kitsilano: The Calm Corner:
    Most folks just say “Kits”. It’s one of those places where you can let your hair down. Imagine a peaceful beach with views of the mountains. After soaking up the sun, you wander into town, find unique stores, and have a casual meal. It’s Vancouver’s little retreat. 
  1. Commercial Drive: The Global Lane:
    Now, if you’re looking for variety, head to “The Drive”. It feels like a world tour without the jet lag. Cafes, restaurants, small shops – they’re all there with flavors and styles from everywhere. Whether you want to sip, munch, or shop, it’s the spot.

The Takeaway:
So, that’s a glimpse of Vancouver. Different vibes, all in one city. Drop by when you can and find your own favorite hangout.…

Vancouver, Canada: A Deep Dive into Diverse Neighbourhoods

Think of Vancouver as a vibrant tapestry, each neighborhood adding its own splash of color. They’re not just places; they’re experiences waiting to happen. So, shall we take a walk? 

  1. Yaletown: From Rails to Retail:
    Yaletown has quite the history – from a bustling rail yard to today’s chic urban hub. Walk the heritage rail tracks, enjoy waterfront views, and don’t forget those trendy restaurants and shops. It’s a blend of past and present. 
  1. Kitsilano: Laid-back Beach Vibes:
    Locally known as “Kits”, it’s the go-to spot for a day under the sun. The beach is a magnet for sunbathers, volleyball players, and those looking to relax. The streets? Brimming with quirky boutiques and delicious bites, reflecting the area’s cool, laid-back spirit. 
  1. Commercial Drive: A World in One Street:
    Step onto “The Drive”, and you’re stepping into a global village. It’s alive with music, arts, and flavors from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Italian espresso, Mexican tacos, or just some good vibes, this neighborhood has it all. 

Conclusion:
Every corner of Vancouver tells a story. From historical lanes to bustling beaches, there’s always something new to discover. So, lace up those walking shoes and let the city surprise you!…

Why Visit Djibouti?

Djibouti is a sovereign nation on the Horn of Africa, at the strategically important Gate of Tears (Babe el Mandeb), which guards the entrance to the Red Sea from the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean. Twenty miles to the east, across the entrance to the Red Sea, lies Yemen.

This small country has many unique features which make a visit very worthwhile. Formerly a French colony, it retains many French connections and cultural perspectives.

Geography

The size of the US State of Massachusetts, it has a coastal plain backed by stony desert (where the French Foreign Legion trains), and behind that scattered plateau and highlands – especially the Goda Massif in the north.

It is bordered on the north by Eritrea, the west by Ethiopia and on the south by Somalia, and embraces the Gulf of Tadjoura. This Gulf leads by way of the Ghoubbet Pass into Lake Ghoubbet (the Devil’s Cauldron).

One of the hottest places on earth, Lake Assal is a flooded volcanic crater ringed by dormant volcanoes and black lava fields. It is located in the Afar Depression, part of the Great African Rift Valley, 153 meters below sea level – the lowest point on the African continent. Lake Assal’s waters are the most saline in the world, containing over 34 percent salt.

It is a semi-presidential republic, and its territory is divided into five regions and eleven districts. The capital city is itself called Djibouti.

Wildlife

The rare Djibouti Francolin – a partridge – lives in the Juniper forests in the Goda Massif – a highland area in the north of the country. There is a wide range of raptors, and in the month of August there are notable migratory congregations.

Mammals include wild dogs, warthogs and, notably even leopards. Velvet monkeys are found in the Day Forest National Park, where over fifty percent of the wildlife in Djibouti lives. There are camels aplenty, and herds of donkeys.

Sealife

Lake Ghoubbet, about eight miles across, is not deep and has no fresh water flowing into it. It is plankton rich and a major breeding area for the plankton-eating whale shark. In addition, there are at least two hundred species of coral, manta rays, barracuda, sailfish and marine life galore.

Culture

For the artist, Djibouti offers little, unless a painter, though considerable efforts are being undertaken to develop its cultural life. Without a university, there is little academic life to mention. Of course, for authors writing about Djibouti and the region in general, there is plenty of material.

Food

Dairy products and meat from the herds are the traditional foods, supplemented by grain-based dishes. An Ethiopian bread recipe, injera, is very popular.

One interesting feature of the diet is the chewing of the light narcotic leaf, qat, which is imported fresh from Ethiopia. Qat is consumed recreationally by nearly all men and has a mild amphetamine effect.

Places to Stay

Most tourists stay in Djibouti City. There are several international hotels up to five star standard, and smaller local hotels. There is a beach holiday village on Moucha Island, twenty minutes by boat from Djibouti. There are smaller hotels in other towns (for example Tadjoura), but quality is variable.

Nightlife

Djibouti City has a French naval presence, and also a US military base at Camp Lemonnier. So, a lot of the lively nocturnal activity has developed to meet their needs. There are numerous bars, cafés, clubs and restaurants. Activities are rather more restrained at Plage des Sables Blancs.…

Visiting Bahrain For a Diverse Trip

The country of Bahrain has become one of the most sought after destinations for tourists looking for an exotic escape away.

Located in the Persian Gulf, the small country of Bahrain is an archipelago that’s located near Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, Bahrain is often a stop-over for those looking to visit the Middle East.

The island’s location means it lends itself to those who are seeking to partake in water sports, and it has developed a number of advanced golf courses and tourist developments for this reason.

The capital of Bahrain is Manama, which houses close to a quarter of the country’s population. Manama is home to the Al-Fateh Mosque – one of the world’s largest mosques. It is a vibrant city, which is also chock-full of Arab history; with cultural activities that includes concerts, the ballet and exhibitions.

Outside the city, it’s possible to view the rest of the country in a fairly short amount of time. The famous Tree of Life is located outside Manama: the tree has lived in the desert with no water source for years, making it a scientific marvel.

Bahrain is also home to the annual Bahrain Grand Prix F1 race, which is considered one of the biggest yearly events in the country; proving popular amongst motor racing fans who wish to witness some of the best drivers in the world compete against each other.

Though Bahrain is the smallest of the Gulf States, the country has established itself as a popular tourist destination. There is usually warm weather all year round, though it can become unbearably hot between April and October. It is also important to remember that the summer can bring sandstorms; therefore, be prepared should you visit during this time of year.

There’s no shortage of unique experiences to be found in this ancient yet modern country, with opportunities to take a ride on a camel’s back, or to take a tour through the desert. In addition, there are plenty of famous souq markets – loud and packed full of colourful products, a souq is a truly unique market experience. At one time Bahrain was known for pearls, but now the country also provides plenty of other products.…

Iraq – Places to Visit on Vacation

The state of Iraq can be a Muslim nation situated in Asia. It has Iran, Jordan, Syria, Turkey, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia as its neighbours. Iraq’s land capabilities contain mountain ranges, deserts, and plains. The Zagros mountain range spans the country. It has two major rivers, Tigris and Euphrates and it likewise attributes a coastline, which is along the Persian Gulf. It in addition has oil reserves and behaves as one of the oil producers in the world.

Fundamentally, Iraq has two sorts of climate: hot summers and cold winters. Summer goes from May possibly to September even though winter is from October to April. Iraq’s rainfall is typically less than six ins annually and it occurs mostly in between the months of October and Might. Nonetheless, the deserts rarely receive rain.

Iraq has an extremely rich record and interesting lifestyle. The nation is formerly known as Mesopotamia also it gave life to a few of the world’s earliest civilizations. These civilizations were the first to study law, science, mathematics, and philosophy.

Iraq has a lot of historic and enjoyable places a traveller can choose from specifically in its capital urban centre, Baghdad. Undoubtedly one of these would be the National Museum of Iraq. The museum houses historical manuscripts and relics. Checking out this location would give a lot of facts about the historical past of Iraq along with the culture of the Iraqi people. Baghdad Zoo is very fashionable and is visited by many tourists especially those who have their kids with them. The shrines of Al Khadimayan bring delight to tourists because of their wonderful architectural layout. An additional vacationer spot is the Baghdad Tower, which presents a superb view of the whole Baghdad. A person can also take a trip to the location of Babylon and be astonished by the historic ruins of the old metropolis.

After viewing some vacationer spots, one in particular can fulfill his gastronomic pleasures by going to local restaurants that provide a variety of Iraqi food. Their cuisine is heavily flavoured as a result of its richness in herbs and spices. Their cooking is largely influenced by the old civilizations and through the Muslim culture.

While devastated by war, Iraq is continually getting better and healing itself. Travelling for the region would be a great help to the economy.…

Why Should I Visit Madrid?

As the capital city of Spain, Madrid possesses most of the charm and elegance of the country. Its elegant architectural pattern has continually attracted people from all over the world. As you tour the city, you will see structures that are as spectacular as they are beautiful. One of the need-to-see buildings in Madrid is the Royal Palace or Palacio Real.

For those who love shopping, the Madrid experience is definitely for you. The entire city is filled with an electrifying air. The people who live there have a “live in the moment” vibe to them. this is also reflected in the highly fashionable dressing. A lot of stores carry major designer brands to fit their growing but diverse customer pool. From high-end brands (at Goya Street) to budget-friendly ones (at Fuencarral street), there is something for everyone.  

Additionally, the nightlife in Madrid is a major attraction for tourists. For those of us that are night owls, Madrid is our home away from home. You could enjoy a quiet time in any of the more mellow restaurants or bars. For those in search of a party, there will always be one just around the corner. Thankfully, wine and beer are quite affordable. So you can enjoy a great time while sticking to your budget.

Madrid has everything needed to make your vacation truly memorable.…

Is Dubai Worth Visiting?

The short answer, is yes it so is! The megacity of Dubai is one whose transformation sort of took the world by storm. Dubai of today welcomes millions of visitors from around the world annually. What exactly makes Dubai worth visiting though?

First, Dubai has become a luxury center of the world. The services offered in Dubai make everyone feel pampered. If you need a break from “it all”, spending a few days in Dubai will be enough to detoxify and relax your mind.

From its world famous jewelry stores to its exquisite services, Dubai is a need-to-visit. The Dubai Mall is the largest in the world. It has truly taken the concept of “everything under one roof” to a whole new level. Most designer brands have stores in Dubai, so it is easy to get original goods. For those on a budget, there are also lots of stores you could check out for more affordable goods.

Another awesome fact about Dubai is that it is largely safe and hence perfect for family trips. There are cameras installed all over the city and enough security personnel to handle every part of the megacity. For large family trips, the last thing you need is worrying about the kids being robbed whenever you step out.

So yes, Dubai is worth touring at least once.…

What Makes Paris Special?

Paris is special because it is one of the most magnificent cities in the world. The people in Paris are some of the friendliest you will meet. The typical Paris residents enjoy spending their days, working, relaxing, and enjoying good food. This chill attitude of the residents is a major benefit for vacations. This is because, in no time, you find yourself taking a deep breath and truly relaxing.

Another really special aspect of a Paris vacation is the fact that the French do not joke with their meals. On major restaurant and café roads, most tourists experience what I refer to as a sensory overdrive. You suddenly get hit with waves made up of the most enticing aromas ever. From the most magnificent coffee blends whose aromas you could almost taste. To snacks and meals that will have your stomach protesting for more. If you go to Paris while on a weight-loss diet, well, all the best!

As a wine enthusiast, it would be pertinent that I point out the exquisiteness of the French wine collection. From vintage well pressed and preserved bottles of wine to more contemporary wines, Paris has it all.The various art galleries and museums are also part of Paris’s awesome factor. Who hasn’t heard about the Mona Lisa for instance? There is nothing quite like seeing it for yourself.

What are the Benefits of Visiting Paris?

Paris has always been and will continue to be one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world. The friendly nature of the residents, their love for art and beauty, as well as the relaxing atmosphere of the city. All of these come together to make Paris the vacation haven it is.

The most obvious benefit of a Paris vacation is the relaxation it affords. The scenery and general atmosphere have a relaxing atmosphere that is almost magical. Taking evening strolls along the city’s scenic routes allows you to take that breath of fresh air you need. It allows your body and mind to truly relax and enjoy the break.

For history or art lovers, Paris is the place to be. This magical city is rife with beauty and splendor around every corner. Various sights make sure that your vacation has no dull moments. You could spend days just checking out the various cool spots. From the spectacular Louvre museum to the Eiffel tower (which has become something of a symbol of the city).

Last but not least, Paris is at the center of French cuisine. You get to enjoy some of the best culinary delights in the world.

Paris is one of the best destinations to vacation. It is worth it!…