Inspiration – Page 4

Stone archways lining blue water leading into the Venetian Arsenal

Venetian Arsenal, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on March 17, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

Existing in part as early as the 8th century, the Venetian Arsenal is a vast complex of shipyards and armories now open to the public for exploration. Featuring outdoor spaces and a walking bridge, possibly the most interesting feature on the grounds is the Piraeus Lion statue at the main gate. With a perplexing inscription and intimidating 9-foot stature, this lion demands the attention of all who question the naval power of the republic of Venice.

Spanning about 110 acres (or about 15% of Venice), the Venetian Arsenal was the largest industrial complex in not only Italy, but the entirety of Europe before the Industrial Revolution. The trading vessels built here generated a large portion of Venice’s wealth and power throughout the centuries. The main gate “Porta Magna” was created around 1460 as one of the first works of Venetian Renaissance architecture.

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Later in 1687, two white marble lions were plundered in Athens and brought to Venice to stand guard next to the main gate, giving the name “Porto Leone” or Lion Port. One of the sculptures, known as the Piraeus Lion, was displayed as a symbol of Saint Mark, Venice’s patron saint. Originally created around 360 BC, the lion was defaced by Scandinavian mercenaries in the 11th century. With runes carved in a dragon-like scroll on the shoulders of the lion, many have tried to decipher the meaning. Take a look for yourself; what is the Lion of Saint Mark telling you?

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3 Austria Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on March 10, 2021. Posted in Austria, Inspiration.

Notorious as one of the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, Switzerland’s hefty price tag often wards off couples just starting their lives together and looking to celebrate. However, its next-door neighbor offers a lot of its most beloved qualities at a fraction of the cost: sweeping views of alpine mountains, shimmering blue lakes, magnificent stone castles, medieval cities and hearty cuisine. These Austria honeymoon destinations showcase the best of the country and will leave you will feeling both exhilarated and refreshed by the time you return to your regular lives.

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1) Vienna

Vienna not only serves as the governmental capital of Austria, it’s also frequently dubbed its cultural capital for its encompassment of history, music and architecture. Start your days by fueling up at one of the many coffee houses, before strolling through the scenic streets together. From churches and museums to palaces and administrative buildings, the city is home to a number of architectural marvels spanning different eras.

Even those who cringe at the thought of seeing an opera production might consider making a romantic night of it by grabbing dinner before heading to one of the city’s world-renowned opera halls. If opera is still too much of a stretch for you, consider the Vienna Mozart Orchestra. These musicians thoroughly dedicate themselves to Mozart’s craft, mastering his pieces and even dressing in historical costumes for the performances.

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2) Salzburg

Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched on a hilltop in the middle of Salzburg, sets the tone for any time spent there. It’s a shining example of the history and architecture that make the city so alluring. And for Sound of Music fans, a lot of the most delightful sights will seem familiar to you, like Mirabell Gardens and Schloss Hellbrunn, which were used as filming locations.

It must be noted that one of qualities that makes Salzburg one of the best Austria honeymoon destinations is its variety of easily accessible day trips. Whether you’re the kind of couple who likes to journey into ice caves and scale mountains or lounge lakeside and meander through fairy-tale towns, somewhere to suit your needs is well within reach. You could even hop the border into Germany and be in Munich in just ninety minutes.

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3) Innsbruck

If hitting the slopes is a big part of your relationship, Innsbruck is one of the ideal Austria honeymoon destinations for capping off a winter wedding. Host of both the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics, it’s no surprise that Innsbruck is perfect hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’ve been skiing or snowboarding for years or you’ve never tried it in your life, there a plenty of adventures to be had in the surrounding mountains. You may even be lucky enough to climb in a bobsled and rush down the track or witness pros taking practice runs off the Bergisel Ski Jump. If you visit in the warmer months, you can still enjoy the mountainous landscape by hiking along the far-reaching network of trails.

In addition to those highlights, Innsbruck is also suitable for those looking for a more leisurely honeymoon. The colorful Old Town is thriving with quaint shops and restaurants and cable cars can ease the task of reaching mountain tops. And while the bling in your new wedding rings is to be treasured the most, you could also check out lots of other sparkly gems at the very unique Swarovski Kristellwelten, a nearby museum highlighting the famous crystal company. No matter how you choose to spend your days, you can spend each night curled up together by a fireplace with breathtaking mountain views surrounding you.

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Colorful lines painted on the side of a building in Las Letras, Madrid

Las Letras, Spain: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on March 8, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Spain.

Located near Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s Las Letras neighborhood is easy to wander into on accident, but is also well worth spending some intentional time in. As largely pedestrianized area, you can meander down the streets and weave your way in and out of delightful shops and eateries. Calle de las Huertas is particularly known throughout the city for its trendy shopping scene. When the sun goes down, the clubs and theaters come to life and Plaza de Santa Ana sits at the center of it all with numerous outdoor dining spots with great ambience.

But what truly makes Las Letras unique is what made it the Literary Quarter in the first place. It was once home to some of Spain’s most famous writers, from Tirso de Molina to Miguel de Cervantes. Tribute is paid to its artistic history through the pieces decorating the neighborhood. Cobblestone streets are inscribed with excerpts from those writers. Bicycles and large plastic flowers hang from balconies. Flat sides of buildings are used as canvases for paintings ranging in style from classical to modern. And while artistic giants of the Prado and Reina Sofia museums sit nearby, Las Letras has several small galleries of its own.

Young couple holding hands walking with the Palace of Westminster in London in the background

3 United Kingdom Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on March 3, 2021. Posted in Inspiration, UK.

Not well known for a sunny climate and luxurious beaches, the United Kingdom often goes overlooked as a honeymoon destination, but history buffs and charming countryside enthusiasts would be hard-pressed to find somewhere better-suited for celebrating their new marriage. These United Kingdom honeymoon destinations provide everything from landmark buildings and unforgettable entertainment to rollings hills and jagged mountains.

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1) London and Edinburgh

The capital of both England and the United Kingdom as a whole, London has been a powerhouse since the early days of the British Empire, a history that is thoroughly demonstrated throughout the countless museums across the city. In addition to countless artifacts on display in those museums, there are a number of crucial historical buildings like Buckingham Palace, as well as modern marvels like the London Eye. At night, London continues to impress. Catch a show at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, cheer on a soccer game at one of the many stadiums, or simply hop from pub to pub and toast your relationship with a pint or a few.

When you want to slow your trip down little, head to Edinburgh. Despite being the capital city of Scotland, it has a lot less hustle and bustle than London. Instead of bouncing from place to place to try and cover as much ground as possible, you can meander down the Royal Mile together and have a romantic picnic overlooking the city on Calton Hill. All the while, you’ll still be spoiled with a variety of intricate historical monuments and lively pubs to discover.

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2) The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds embody the allure of the English countryside with precious stone houses and lush greenery. It’s been established by the government as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and with good reason. After watching the sun set over the jaw-dropping landscapes, enjoy romantic dinners of some of the country’s finest cuisine before curling up in your secluded cottage for the night. The quiet tranquility of the area makes it one of the most relaxing United Kingdom honeymoon destinations. It’s less about checking off sights to see and more about drinking in the views around you over a cup of tea or a delicately crafted cocktail.

That being said, the Cotswolds also act as a fantastic base to see some popular nearby attractions like Bath or Stonehenge. Day trips to Bristol and Oxford are also possible for adding a little more historical flair to your honeymoon.

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3) Scottish Highlands

The Scottish Highlands should be on the bucket list of any adventurous couple, making it one of the best United Kingdom honeymoon destinations for the outdoors-inclined. Hikers in particular will be delighted as they make their way around lochs with stone castles perched on the shores or along craggy ridge lines with sprawling valleys down below.

Other outdoor pursuits include kayaking, rock climbing, cycling, golfing, canyoning, and the list goes on. No matter which activity you choose, you’re sure to be spoiled with breathtaking scenery along the way. End a long day of activity with a stiff drink at one of the region’s numerous whiskey distilleries to celebrate, then retreat to your reformed-castle hotel for a couples’ massage. Before settling in for a good night’s rest be sure to take a romantic stargazing outing, which could be as simple as stepping away from your hotel and lying out under the Milky Way for a bit.

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Bright night sky with the Milky Way visible over a desert landscape

4 Dazzling Stargazing Spots Across Europe

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 22, 2021. Posted in Inspiration.

With a rise of interest in remote outdoor excursions, more travelers are becoming enchanted by the thought of spending nights away from cities to look up and see all the fascinating details the sky has to offer. There are a number of places closer to home where this is possible, but for those who want to tie in such an experience with a dream vacation to Italy or a beach getaway in Spain, these are the best stargazing spots in Europe.

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1) Canary Islands, Spain

The Canary Islands have long been a beloved beach destination in Spain, but as astrotourism continues to boom, travelers are beginning to discover what scientists have long known; that the skies with Starlight Reserve protection make for one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. Around the different islands you’ll have a front row seat to everything from meteor showers to the Milky Way. There are plenty of stargazing tours and observatories at the ready to help you navigate the sky, or you can journey out on your own and simply enjoy the view. You could build an entire vacation around hopping from island to island to sample the variety of experiences at night after days spent hiking desert landscapes or lounging on black sand beaches.

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2) Pyrenees, France

Fairly remote in the south of France, the Pyrenees mountain range offers a rugged terrain accentuated by the countless stars lighting up the night sky. While the region as a whole offers no shortage of stargazing opportunities, the most notable spot lies atop Pic du Midi. Taking the cable car to the summit allows you to enter the observatory and try out the high-powered telescopes or gaze out at the snow-capped mountains glowing faintly from the astral activity above. It was here that NASA scientists took photographs of the moon’s surface in preparation for the Apollo missions, a testament to the astral clarity of the area.

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3) Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom

There are a few places throughout the United Kingdom that are great for stargazing, but the large expanses of unspoiled land in the Scottish Highlands allow you to have an incredible view from almost anywhere, whether you’re skirting along the Moray Coast or skipping across the different isles. And while Scotland definitely isn’t a hotspot for chasing down the Aurora Borealis like Iceland or Norway, it’s possible to see the Northern Lights from the Highlands if all the conditions happen to line up perfectly.

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4) Tuscany, Italy

Galileo Galilei is often considered the father of observational astronomy for his discoveries such as the rings of Saturn and a multitude of stars in the Milky Way. So it’s only fitting that his homeland, the rolling hills of Tuscany, remains one of the best stargazing spots in Europe. While you can see a fair number of stars from small cities like Siena or Pienza, you’re better off venturing to a more remote location for the clearest viewing opportunities. Not only will you be treated with amazing night sky, but you can enjoy it with a glass of some of the most acclaimed wine in the world in hand.

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Rear view of a young man and woman sitting on a river bank. The man is pointing towards a boat in the water with colorful buildings in the background

5 Portugal Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 17, 2021. Posted in Inspiration, Portugal.

In recent years, Portugal has rapidly been evolving from Spain’s often-overlooked neighbor to a travel hotspot. This is in large part because of its stunning beaches, fine wine, impeccable cuisine, charismatic cities, and countless other gems. This variety also makes this segment of the Iberian Peninsula a wonderful choice for punctuating a new marriage, and these Portugal honeymoon destinations only begin to uncover a myriad of possibilities.

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1) Porto and the Douro Valley

Porto and the Douro Valley are the ideal Portugal honeymoon destinations for wine aficionados looking to start their marriage off by sampling varietals amid stunning scenery. Some days that scenery will be the monumental metal bridge and red roofs of Porto, and some days it will be the Douro River snaking its way through hills of terraced vineyards.

Port wine is a must-try while in Portugal, and this is absolutely the region for tastings above and beyond that popular export. You may not have many beaches at your disposal here, but when you’re sitting poolside and toasting to your new life together with some of the best wine in the world, you won’t even miss them. This area is also popular for wellness retreats, meaning it’s the perfect location to leave you feeling refreshed before returning to your regular lives.

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2) Lisbon and the Silver Coast

As the capital city, Lisbon is a fantastic introduction to all that Portugal has to offer. Feel the breeze from the coast as you navigate the seven hills on foot or by its famous colorful trams, and end your day watching a delightful sunset over the city from the Alfama District. Once the sun has set, head to Bairro Alto y Chiado for a romantic seafood dinner followed by a thumping nightlife scene.

When you’re in need of some alone time spent sprawled out on the beach together, the Silver Coast is ready and waiting nearby. While the beaches of the Silver Coast may not be lined with glamorous clubs like you might find in other European countries, there are so many small villages with beaches that it’s easy to find somewhere to hunker down in private serenity. Or if you’re a more adventurous couple, Nazare is home to one of the top beaches in the world for surfing.

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3) Algarve

If you’re all in on a beach honeymoon, look no further than the Algarve. Contrary to the Silver Coast, this is where you can find a plethora of resort-style hotels for pampering. Think easy access to golden sandy beaches with awe-inspiring rock formations during the day, afternoon couples’ massages, and evenings at the pool bar with refreshing cocktails in hand.

For a little adventure, you can set out on aquatic excursions like dolphin watching or join a cooking class to learn some local specialties. And if hitting the links is your favorite brand of unwinding, the Algarve is one of the best golf destinations in the world, as a home to plenty of gorgeous championship courses.

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4) The Azores

Once considered Portugal’s best-kept secret, the Azores, situated 900 miles away from the mainland, are slowly being uncovered. This island chain has everything you could hope to find in Portugal; craggy beaches, lovely architecture, rich local wine and delectable seafood. However, the most exciting parts of the islands are those unique to this region, such as the volcanic activity that has painted evergreen craters, geothermal hot springs, and black sand beaches across the land. Lounging in the hot springs together is sure to be a romantic honeymoon memory you’ll treasure for a long time.

While it’s easy to spend your time here simply relaxing amidst the gorgeous scenery, the Azores are also an amazing option for those with something a little more active in mind. The seafaring can take to the waters for whale watching or scuba diving, and those that feel more comfortable on their land legs can hike dormant volcanos or the rims of crater lakes.

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5) Madeira

The island of Madeira shares a lot of similarities with the Azores, including endless greenery and mountainous terrain never far from the coast. Unlike the Azores, Madeira is somewhat more frequently traveled, meaning it’s home to a number of luxurious resorts where a spa or restaurant are only steps away from the pool or beach. This middle ground is what makes it one of the best Portugal honeymoon destinations. You can spend your day out walking behind waterfalls or around volcanoes with the knowledge you’ll be ending your day in a haven of pampering.

Some truly unique experiences include walking along the levadas (small channels that transport water throughout the island), perusing the painted doors of Funchal’s Old Town and even riding through city streets in a wicker basket on skis. Yes, you read that last part right. You and your new spouse winding down a curvy road in a wicker basket pushed by two men in straw hats is certainly a honeymoon memory you won’t forget anytime soon.

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View through a series of stone archways out toward mountains and green plants of the Villa Cimbrone Gardens

Villa Cimbrone Gardens, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 16, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Inspiration, Italy.

The Villa Cimbrone Gardens are a culmination of prestige, beauty, and the rich history of Ravello’s golden era. Earning its name from the jagged cliff on which it’s perched, the lush estate offers guests sweeping views over the Mediterranean sea as well as a peek into the ornate architecture, marbled statues, and flowering greenery of coast of Campania.

Originally belonging to the aristocratic Acconciajoco family in the 11th century, the property has passed hands several times over the centuries. It was extensively renovated in the early 20th century by British nobleman, Lord Grimthorpe, and is now a public historical sight.

The botanical garden sits adjacent to an exclusive 5-star hotel that shares its name, and is often used for weddings and receptions due to its stunningly romantic atmosphere. The Terrace of Infinity is perhaps the most breathtaking spot on the premises; the long patio parallels the horizon and is dotted with marble busts along the rim. Where sculpture meets coastline, and water meets sky… that is where magic happens.

The Ally of Immensity is the main walkway through the estate and features a wisteria-covered pergola in summer. Within the gardens, visitors will find temples and statues, pottery and stonework, as well as a cloister and crypt: all pointing the the artistry that has been so meticulously preserved.

With its classical styling and aura of days gone by, the Villa Cimbrone Gardens are recognized as an important cultural heritage site that all who visit the Amalfi Coast shouldn’t miss.

Young couple sitting on a bench overlooking the snowy mountains and green valleys of the Bernese Oberland, one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations

3 Switzerland Honeymoon Destinations

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 11, 2021. Posted in Inspiration, Switzerland.

While many couples wish to spend their honeymoons soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, it isn’t for everyone. Switzerland certainly isn’t know for its beaches, but its fascinating landscape and charming cities make for undoubtedly romantic adventures, no matter the time of year. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or stay curled up by a fire gazing out at snowy mountain tops, these Switzerland honeymoon destinations are also the perfect capstone to a winter wedding for those not afraid of a little chill.

1) Bernese Oberland

For the couple who has spent many dates hiking, skiing or snowboarding, a honeymoon in the Bernese Oberland would be the perfect homage to your relationship. This region is home to countless treks with any scenery you could ask for, from castles perched on the banks of bright blue lakes to waterfalls cascading from jagged mountains. Ski resorts pepper the entire region, providing you easy access to some of the best slopes in the world by day and a luxurious, cozy place to retreat to at night.

Though the trails and slopes are considered highlights of the Bernese Oberland, this is also one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations for those with a mellower trip in mind. You can experience a lot of those same mountain views by letting one of the iconic red cogwheel trains carry you to the top, you could stroll through rustic towns with all kinds of amazing shops and restaurants or take a refreshing dip in your hotel’s indoor pool and follow it up with a massage at the spa.

2) Zermatt

In Zermatt, all roads lead to the Matterhorn, one of the most recognized peaks around the world. While you could choose to check off a bucket list item together by climbing to the summit, it’s much more common to simply take advantage of the abundant surrounding trails lined with stunning views of it. There are so many trails that everyone from the most avid hikers to leisurely walkers have an array of options to choose from. And for those who really don’t wish to go by foot, as with almost everywhere in Switzerland, there’s a cogwheel train to fill that gap.

Rest up from days out on the trails at one of the numerous resorts and spas, and when you need a day off you could venture to Sion. Sion is the perfect romantic day trip, with castles perched on hilltops amidst an alpine backdrop and vineyards that produce underrated white wine just waiting for tastings.

3) Lucerne

Lucerne is one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations for those whose goal after their wedding is to unwind as much as possible before returning to their regular lives. Everything you could want is centered around Lake Lucerne, meaning you wouldn’t have to spend precious days traveling around the country. You could stay in the town of Lucerne to get the most out of its medieval allure, or in a resort up in the mountains for the utmost tranquility and pampering.

This area is less about scaling mountains and more about admiring them from a distance. But if you’d still like to reach the top of a mountain, you can reach the summit of Mount Pilatus by foot, cogwheel railway or cable car. From there you’ll have sprawling views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. And if you haven’t quite had your fix of fondue, you can actually dine in a cable car while taking in the same amazing sights.

Aerial view of the small city of Provins, France with a large wall forming a boundary along one side and greenery and stone buildings in the center

Provins, France: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 9, 2021. Posted in Adventure, France, Inspiration.

If you’re looking for a day trip from Paris that isn’t Versaille, the charming medieval town of Provins is a beautiful spot for an afternoon of open-air exploration, historical importance and local treats! Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, visiting Caesar’s Tower, the stone Tithe Barn and the original timber houses with thatched roofs and colored shutters.

Walk around the intimidating fortified walls before heading through the grand Saint-Jean gateway and into the center of the historic town. Here, you’ll find shops with local delicacies including “brie de Provins,” niflettes (puff pastry cakes filled with cream), and pink confectionaries including rose petal jam, or rose honey. Some of the shops are closed to the public, but instead sell their sweets and goods out their windows!

Continuing on, you’ll find the Tithe Barn which was once used as a market and hosted an annual trade fair, as Provins was once a major trade hub in medieval France. from there, seek out Caesar’s Tower: an octagonal tower built in the 12th century where visitors can climb to the top and savor the view of the town. Some additional monumental stops include: Maison Romane (one of the oldest buildings in Provins that contains a museum featuring collections of sculptures, pottery and religious relics), as well as the picturesque Old Hospital and Holy Spirit Cellar.

Known throughout the centuries as home to the largest fairs in the region, Provins holds onto that reputation today. Every June, the city hosts a medieval fair to celebrate the traditions of the past, featuring games, food and costumes typical of the medieval times. Please note, the hosting weekend varies per year.

Hvar lavender fields at sunset with the sea and mountains in the distance

Hvar Lavender Fields, Croatia: Off The Beaten Path

Written by Iulian Milcomete on February 4, 2021. Posted in Adventure, Croatia, Inspiration.

Most people associate lavender fields with France, thanks to the purple rolling hills across the Provence region, from the Valensole Plateau to the Luberon Valley. Not many people would even guess that Croatia has any lavender fields at all, let alone on an island not far off the coast from Split or Dubrovnik, Hvar. Despite often being nicknamed the “Lavender Island”, Hvar is best known for its beaches and stone fortresses, leaving these fields as a hidden gem of sorts in Croatia.

Just 50 years ago, these fields accounted for 8% of of the world’s lavender production, but since then emigration and forest fires have severely shrunk the once booming industry. Now going through a revival period, the sight of these colorful shrubs with the turquoise Adriatic Sea in the background remains something truly special.

Each June, a Lavender Festival is held in the village of Velo Grablje, where unique treats and souvenirs like lavender-flavored ice cream and lavender honey become more abundant in celebration. With a more active role, you can discover the freshest lavender oil you’ll ever encounter by following it through the harvesting and distilling process. This festival is also important to the revival of the fields, bringing them needed money and attention.