Europe

March 31, 2020

Beautiful Places Around the World We Can Enjoy from Our Living Room

While most of us are practicing social distancing, now is a good time to take a virtual tour of some of the most beautiful natural wonders around the world.

Mystic Falls, Yellowstone

Mystic Falls in Yellowstone National Park is just one of hundreds of breathtaking sites to see in the park. It is a 70-foot waterfall that can be reached by a short 1.2 mile hike in the Upper Geyser Basin. The waterfall cascades down the mountain canyon, providing a beautiful and calming view for those who reach the destination.

For those hiking in real life, take the clockwise route to take advantage of the easier slope and to enjoy a dramatic reveal of the falls when you reach your destination.

Mystic Falls

Uluru, Australia

Uluru, formerly known as Ayers Rock by non-indigenous Australians, is a massive rock formation that juts up nearly 3,000 feet from the surrounding area. It is sacred to the Aboriginal people, and is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks. The formation is nearly five miles around, and is a great tourist destination.

Visitors will be in awe of the rock’s beauty and how it appears to glow red at sunrise and sunset, and change colors throughout the day.

Uluru / Ayers Rock

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

Flowing from the Zambezi River is Victoria Falls, named in honor of Queen Victoria of Great Britain. The waterfall is considered the largest in the world because of its combined width and height, though it is neither the single widest or tallest waterfall.

The waterfall is dramatic because of the vast plateau that extends for hundreds of miles in every direction. The falls rest on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, and serves as a symbol of how nature’s beauty cannot be contained to any one country.

Mosi-oa Tunya / Victoria Falls

Grand Canyon, Arizona

The Grand Canyon in the southern United States is one of the largest, and most breathtaking, canyons in the world. It has been carved by the Colorado River over two billion years, and visitors are impressed that the small, muddy river has created something so vast and beautiful.

Visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park can hike into the valleys and walk along crests and ridges to take pictures of some of the most impressive views of nature’s slow and steady progress.

Grand Canyon

Lake Como

Lake Como in Italy is famous for being a vacation spot for the rich and famous, but it’s no wonder people flock to its shores, because it is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places on Earth. The lake was formed by glacier activity, and the mountain lake retains some feel of ancient, more peaceful times.

Villas and small villages dot the lake’s perimeter, adding to the quaint, delicate feel of the region that immediately invites visitors to relax, settle in and become part of the surroundings.

View of Lake Como from Castello di Vezio

Mount Everest

No list of Earth’s amazing locations would be complete without a mention of Mount Everest, the largest mountain in the world, nestled in the beautiful Himalayan mountain range. It peaks at nearly 9,000 feet, making it as remote as you can get on the surface of the Earth.

In the last century, climbing the mountain has become a goal of endurance climbers, celebrities, and people looking to break down barriers; but most of us just look at the icy wonder in amazement and appreciate the pristine beauty of the tallest peak in the world.

Mount Everest

These are just a few of the beautiful places on Earth that we can all enjoy from indoors, and soon we’ll be out and about enjoying the beautiful scenery closer to home.

March 8, 2020March 5, 2020

This Month in History: March

The most famous event in the history of March may well be the Ides of March, when Caesar was assassinated by his friends and peers on his way to the Senate. There are many other important historical events that happened in March; let’s check some of them out.

March 1: Seven Indictments in the Watergate Scandal

The Watergate scandal, which eventually took down the entire Nixon administration, was a story that captivated the nation for two years.

On March 1, 1974, seven former Nixon administration officials were arrested in connection with the June 17, 1972 break in at the Watergate Hotel and the subsequent coverup led by the president.

Watergate Hotel

March 5: Winston Churchill Warns of “Iron Curtain”

Winston Churchill was Britain’s Prime Minister during much of World War II, and it was his stubborn will that helped keep the island nation free when the rest of Europe was falling to the Nazis. However, after the war, he failed to win reelection, and was understandably upset.

At the invite of US President Harry Truman, Churchill gave a speech at Westminster College in Fulton, Missouri on March 5, 1946. It was here he warned of an “Iron Curtain” descending across Europe and warning of the need to stay vigilant against the USSR, in essence predicting the Cold War of the next fifty years.

Westminster College Gymnasium

In honor of Churchill’s visit and his immense impact on global politics, the College has a museum dedicated to the world leader.

National Churchill Museum

March 6: Fall of the Alamo

Before it was part of the United States, Texas was a part of Mexico, but immigrants from the United States wanted it to become an independent country.

After the Texans took the upper hand in the struggle, Mexican General Santa Anna fought to take back the territory. A siege battle took place in San Antonio, where Santa Anna and his troops attacked the Alamo, killing all or nearly all the men garrisoned there, between 160 and 270 in total.

While the Mexican troops won the battle, the massacre became a rallying cry across Texas. A few weeks later, as the final battle for independence was fought, Texan troops shouted “Remember the Alamo” as they defeated the Mexicans in a rout.

The Alamo

March 12: Bermuda Colonized by British

While the Spanish were the first Europeans to find the uninhabited island, Bermuda was not settled until a British ship, the Sea Venture, capsized off it’s shores on its way to the Virginia colony on March 12, 1609.

The island nation is still part of the British Commonwealth, and is a prime beach, diving, and golf destination.

Horseshoe Bay Beach

Sandy beaches aren’t the only draw; the financial center of Hamilton is an international banking hub, making Bermuda one of the per capita wealthiest countries in the world.

Bermuda

March 15: Assassination of Julius Caesar

After seizing power for himself, causing the fall of the Roman Republic, Julius Caesar was a hero among the poor but a villain among the elite. They resented his political and social reforms and consolidation of power. A plan to kill him was hatched among as many as fifty Roman senators.

As he neared the entrance to the Senate, he was stabbed more than 23 times by multiple men. As he lay dying, Julius Caesar said “Et tu, Brute?” meaning “You too, Brutus?” because his protege, Marcus Brutus, was among the assassins.

A soothsayer is rumored to have told Caesar that harm would befall him by the end of the day, saying “Beware the Ides of March”. That phrase is still spoken today, and March 15 is often viewed as a day of ill luck or misfortune.

Julius Caesar's Murder Site

March 24: Exxon Valdez

Exxon Valdez, a shipping tanker, was carrying oil from a terminal in Valdez, Alaska. Due to a miscommunication and poor navigational equipment, the ship hit the Bligh Reef in the early morning of March 24, 1989. Many accusations about the captain’s drinking contributing to the crash were made, but could not be proven.

The tanker spilled more than 250,000 barrels, or nearly 11 million gallons, of crude oil in the Prince William Sound. Its remote location made cleanup difficult. Less than ten percent of the oil was ever cleaned up or removed. Thousands of miles of coastline still show the effects of the spill. Hundreds of thousands of birds were killed, along with thousands of otters, and hundreds of bald eagles, orcas, and other animals. Untold numbers of salmon, other fish and marine wildlife were also killed.

Until the Deepwater Horizon disaster, it was the largest man-made environmental disaster in US history.

Prince William Sound

March 31: Eiffel Tower Opens in Paris

The Eiffel Tower has come to represent Paris, and France, to the world; but the architectural marvel is just over 130 years old. On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower opened to the public and the world as part of the Paris Universal Exposition. In spite of predicted negative opinions, it was an immediate sensation. Each night the tower was lit by gas lamps, and people from around the world were captivated by the tower glowing in the night sky. And the world is just as enamored with the Eiffel Tower today. The tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

March is full of history; some tragic and some wonderful. It’s good to look back and think that, while the world is constantly changing, it’s often changing for the better.

January 16, 2020

Cozy Winter Destinations

While most of us are bundled up and counting down the days til warmer weather, there are some places that were meant to be enjoyed in the winter, with their snowcapped mountain vistas, cozy settings, fun winter attractions and more.

Vail, Colorado

Vail, Colorado, is a ski resort town in the Rocky Mountains. It is known for amazing skiing, great dining, fancy hotels and a cozy, romantic atmosphere.

Established after a nearby ski lift opened in the 1960s, the town has a carefully crafted reputation as a great getaway during the winter for snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding and snow shoeing. It also has a reputation for year round hiking, dining, outdoor activities and memorable getaways.

Vail Ski Resort

Zermatt, Switzerland

Could anything feel more right in winter than spending time in the Swiss Alps? Zermatt is a small Swiss town located near the majestic Matterhorn, one of the tallest and most famous peaks in Europe.

Matterhorn

The town has put an emphasis on limiting pollution to ensure good views of the Matterhorn, so nearly all local transportation is by electric shuttles and trains. Most visitors arrive by train and can be shuttled around by hotel-managed vehicles, or make their way around on foot.

Zermatt railway station

Zermatt has year-round skiing, and is known especially for its moguls. So if you’re in the mood for winter in June, come to Zermatt!

Iceland

Iceland is fast becoming a global tourist destination. Even in the winter, when there are only four or five hours of direct sunlight each day, the island country is a great place to visit. The capital, Reykjavik, is a dynamic city that tourists can enjoy day or night, light or dark.

Hallgrímskirkja

Iceland has an untamed, almost wild, spirit. The countless thermal hot springs, geysers, volcanoes, hiking trails and outdoor activities unique to Iceland should not be missed. Bring good winter gear and hiking shoes, and you can enjoy the unique landscapes of this northern land.

Goðafoss

Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

If hot springs in cold weather is your thing, then you’ll love Chena Hot Springs in Alaska. The resort location is north of Fairbanks in the interior of Alaska.

The remote hotel has both regular and rugged accommodations. Daring guests can rent cabins complete with “outdoor” bathrooms, aka outhouses, just like “the old days”.

Don’t forget your snow gear, swim suit, and everything else you might need, since this place is remote and sparsely settled, you can’t just pop down to a convenience store if you forget your toothbrush.

Welcome to Chena Hot Springs Resort

Quebec, Canada

Quebec City in Montreal, Canada, has a well-deserved reputation as a great winter destination. If you want more than skiing, mountain vistas and quiet cabin stays, Quebec is a great place for you.

One of the oldest cities in North America, there is so much history and culture to experience, you should plan at least a few days here.

Montmorency Park

Maple syrup pie, poutine, the food will keep you warm and happy as you walk through Old Quebec, a UNESCO heritage site. The downtown area decorates to the nines for Christmas and the holidays, making it a magical winter wonderland for tourists and explorers.

Stay in the Fairmont Château Frontenac Hotel for a home base in the Old City that has as much atmosphere and charm as anything else you’ll see.

Fairmont Château Frontenac Hotel

Harbin, China

Located in northern China near the Russian border, Harbin is a large city, with more than 5 million residents, many of them Russian immigrants. The city has bitterly cold winters, but has developed a reputation as the “Ice City”. It is home to many winter activities, including a winter and ice sculpture festival. The month-long event starts in early January and hosts up to 18 million visitors! It is centered around Sun Island and has almost 200 acres of massive sculptures.

The famous Saint Sophia Cathedral of the Russian Orthodox faith is nearby, a unique site in China, but important to the significant Russian immigrant population.

Saint Sophia Cathedral in Harbin

Be sure to pack extra wool underwear and a good winter coat, because the average high temperature in Harbin in January is about 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tahiti

If reading about these winter destinations is making you cold and grumpy, you should consider a vacation in Tahiti, the picture-perfect island in the Pacific with pleasant tropical temperatures year-round. The black sand beaches are globally famous, as are the blue waters and amazing mountains of the island that reach over 7,000 feet above sea level.

Whether you visit in the winter to get away from the cold, dreary scenery of your hometown or you come in spring or summer, you’ll be swept away from all the cares and worries, and transported to a place where relaxing, laying in the sun and swimming in pristine waters are the only thing on your mind.

Tahiti

Adventurous, looking for a romantic getaway or craving some outdoor activities, these places are perfect for you, especially in the winter. So get a travel buddy, start making plans, and don’t forget to pack your coat!

January 6, 2020

This Month in History: January

It’s a new year, and a time to reflect on what you’ve done in the past, and how you want to steer your future. Looking back on historical events can help us maintain a good perspective as we work to create a positive, successful future.

So, as we welcome the new year, let’s look back on some past events.

January 1: Opening of Ellis Island

As immigrants flooded into the United States, especially from Europe, the federal government needed a facility to process all the people arriving by boat in New York City.

Ellis Island was turned into a massive station to screen and process immigrants. It opened on January 1, 1892, and served in various capacities until it was closed in 1954.

During that time, an estimated 12 million immigrants passed through the doors, and most were welcomed into the United States to work, live, become citizens and contribute to the melting pot culture of the country.

Ellis Island

As immigrants arrived in New York Harbor, they could see the Statue of Liberty, representing the American culture of welcoming immigrants and visitors with welcome arms, giving them hope of a new life in America.

Statue Of Liberty

January 5: Khmer Rogue Takes Power in Cambodia

While the United States was fighting the North Vietnamese, the neighboring country of Cambodia broke out in a civil war. In 1975, the Communist Party of Kampuchea, or Khmer Rouge, won. On January 5, 1976, the Khmer Rogue, led by the infamous Pol Pot, announced a new government and constitution.

Over the next four years, a massive genocide took place, killing roughly 2 million people or 25 percent of the entire population. The autocratic regime was overthrown in 1979.

Much of the genocide took place in “killing fields” throughout the country, where more than one million people, men, women and children, were murdered and buried in mass graves.

The Killing Fields

January 8: Elvis Presley is Born

On January 8, 1935, a king was born. Elvis Presley was born in Tupelo, Mississippi.

His first record was released in 1956, and over the next 20 years, he would be the greatest star in the rock and roll universe. Songs such as Hound Dog, All Shook Up, and Love Me Tender have made him the best selling solo artist of all time, a record which endures to this day.

Elvis Presley's Birthplace

Elvis passed away suddenly in his home Graceland, in Memphis, Tennessee. Fans can visit the home, and it has become a major tourist attraction for the region.

Graceland - Elvis Presley's Estate

January 15: Coronation of Elizabeth I

Born in 1533 to Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth was never expected to be queen, but the death of first her brother Edward VI, the overthrow of Lady Jane Grey, and then the death of her sister Mary, led to Elizabeth becoming queen in 1558. On January 15, 1559, Elizabeth was crowned Queen Elizabeth I in Westminster Abbey in London.

Westminster Abbey

She was welcomed to the throne by the mostly Protestant country, and they looked to her for peace and stability after decades of religious and political instability. She ruled as queen until she died in 1603, reigning for 44 mostly peaceful years.

January 21: Vladimir Lenin Dies

Vladimir Lenin was born in Russia in 1870, and became a revolutionary who advocated for Marxist communism, and became the leader of Russia in 1917, at the end of the Russian Revolution. In his short time in power, he led the country through wars, economic expansion and massive reshaping of the social structure. He rebranded the country as the Soviet Union.

He passed away on January 21, 1924, leaving power to Joseph Stalin, who quickly became a dictatorial leader of the Soviet Union. Long after his death, Lenin and his political movement continue to influence the world.

Lenin was buried in a massive mausoleum in Moscow, and more than 2.5 million people visit the tomb each year.

Mausoleum of Lenin

January 22: Roe v. Wade Decided at the Supreme Court

On January 22, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down one of the most controversial decisions in their history. Roe v. Wade was decided by a 7-2 margin, declaring that the Constitution allowed for a woman to have an abortion, with certain restrictions and guidance for the states enforcing the laws.

Since its decision, Roe has been a focal point for politicians and political debate in the United States, and the issue is far from settled.

US Supreme Court

January 27: Liberation of Auschwitz

Nazi Germany established several concentration camps where they housed first political prisoners and then other “undesirables” including Jews, homosexuals, and others. Over the course of the war, between 15 and 20 million people were forced into the camps.

Auschwitz, in Poland, was possibly the worst of these camps. The camp housed an estimated 1.3 million people, more than 1.1 million of whom died or were murdered at the site. On January 27, 1945, Russian soldiers liberated what was left of the mostly-abandoned camp, and the Nazis’ worst atrocities were revealed to the world.

The words “Arbeit Macht Frei” or “Work Will Set You Free” at the gates of the camp have become immortal, haunting, representations of the worst of what the Nazis did to their enemies.

Auschwitz II-Birkenau Concentration Camp

These are just a few of the important historical events of Januarys past, and they certainly illustrate the importance of knowing our history to both celebrate the great moments and remember the bad events in order to ensure a better future.

December 8, 2019

This Month in History: December

They say those who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it. While much of history would be fun to relive, it is important to know what events and people have come before us and to understand their impact on our lives and our world.

Let’s see some of the important events of Decembers past.

December 1: Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott

On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man after a long day of work, starting a bus boycott that lasted more than a year, included a case considered by the Supreme Court, and led to the integration of the city’s bus system.

The boycott was supported and publicized by many important civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King, Jr.

Now there’s a wonderful museum that commemorates Rosa Parks and her influence on American history, located in downtown Montgomery.

Rosa Parks Library and Museum

December 8: John Lennon Assassination

The Beatles are the most famous band in music history, and John Lennon was the founding member and lead singer. After the band broke up in 1970, Lennon lived with his family in New York City.

On December 8, 1980, as he was returning from a recording session, he was assassinated by a deranged fan, Mark David Chapman.

His ashes were scattered near the family residence in Central Park, and the Strawberry Fields Memorial was later created for fans to pay their respects and remember the musician.

Strawberry Fields (John Lennon memorial)

December 14: George Washington Dies

From a young age, George Washington seemed destined to influence history. As military hero, then commander of the military of what would become the United States of America, and the president of the Constitutional Convention, Washington was the country’s founding hero. He served as the United States’ first president before returning to private life at Mount Vernon in Virginia.

There he caught a cold and after a few days of complications, died on December 14, 1799. The country immediately mourned his death, and he still stands as a figure of legendary leadership, wisdom and humility.

George Washington's Mount Vernon Plantation

December 18: Battle of Verdun Ends

World War I was the first major modern war, and held the entire world in its terrible grip. The size and scope of the battles were on scales never before seen. Battles raged on for months with little to show other than astronomical body counts on both sides.

The Battle of Verdun lasted from February 21 to December 18, 1916, when the Germans surrendered to the French. Roughly 300,000 men on both sides died, making it both one of the longest and most deadly battles in history.

A memorial on the battlefield commemorates both French and German troops, as well as the civilian casualties of the battle.

Verdun Memorial

December 21: Pan Am Flight 103 Blows Up

About one hour into the transatlantic flight from London to New York, Pan Am Flight 103 was blown up, killing all 259 people on the plane and 11 people on the ground.

The airplane debris landed near and in the town of Lockerbie, Scotland, causing significant damage to homes and structures. While two Libyan nationals were accused and one convicted, their guilt has never been certain, significant problems with the investigation were identified, and new suspects have continued to be considered.

Remains of Pan Am Flight 103 (blown up over Lockerbie)

December 25: Sir Isaac Newton is Born

On December 25, 1642, Isaac Newton was born in the small English town Woolsthorpe-by-Colsterworth.

Woolsthorpe Manor

By the time he died 84 years later, he had developed a body of work that has led him to be considered one of the world’s most important scientists. His understanding of gravity has been said to be inspired by watching an apple fall in his garden.

While it probably didn’t hit his head as written by Voltaire, he did write about the thinking and there is an apple tree in the garden of the family home, making it likely that the story is basically true.

Sir Isaac Newton's apple tree

December 29: Murder of Thomas Becket

Thomas Becket was born a minor English noble in 1119, but his hard work and good connections led to him being appointed Chancellor under King Henry II and eventually as Archbishop of Canterbury, the most important religious position in the country. Expected to put the concerns of the king over those of the church, Becket instead maintained the primacy of the church, infuriating the king who famously muttered “Will no one rid me of this meddlesome prince?”.

Shortly thereafter, he was assassinated by four knights. He quickly became a saint in the Catholic church and is still one of the most venerated saints in the Anglican church as well.

Canterbury Cathedral

These are just a few of the interesting, important and world-changing events that have happened in the past. Perhaps the things we do will have as much impact on the future. It’s in our hands!

November 15, 2019November 12, 2019

This Month in History: November

Taking time to reflect on the past is important because it gives us an opportunity to review where we’ve been and how far we’ve come, to celebrate the amazing things that have been accomplished by ordinary people, and to remember the events that changed the course of history.

Let’s look back through history to review some of the important events that occurred in Novembers past.

November 1: Creation of the European Union

On November 1, 1993, the European Union (EU) came into effect, bringing together 12 countries in an economic and political union, lowering barriers and eliminating borders to promote unity among the countries.

Since then, the organization has grown to 28 member states functioning in an ever closer union.

Vrijthof (Maastricht)

November 3: Panamanian Independence

After breaking away from Spain along with the rest of South America in 1819, Panama was part of an ambitious attempt to govern most of the region as one country. Panama then “separated” from Colombia in 1903.

Panama’s independence allowed the country to take full control of the future Panama Canal, a waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, reducing travel time for people and goods, and effectively making the world smaller and more accessible.

Panama Canal

November 4: Discovery of King Tut’s Tomb

King Tutankhamun, or King Tut, was an ancient Egyptian king who ruled in his youth for about ten years. His tomb was discovered by Howard Carter as part of a massive unearthing of ancient royal burial sites in the Valley of the Kings, on November 4, 1915.

The contents were breathtaking, including a stunning blue and gold mask that has become famous the world over.

King Tut & the Valley of the Kings

November 9: Fall of the Berlin Wall

After World War II, the victors, including the US and the Soviet Union, divided supervision of Germany, and divided the capital city of Berlin as well. To prevent defectors, the Soviet Union built a wall between the eastern and western portions of the city.

It stood until November 9, 1989, when revolution led to the political and physical barrier between the two cities coming down.

The citizens of East and West Berlin physically tore down portions of the wall, and these images of citizens rising up against an oppressive regime became the symbol of the end of the Cold War.

Berlin Wall

November 11: Veteran’s Day

After more than four years of brutal fighting on a global scale, the great powers of the world declared a ceasefire, ending World War I. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, in 1918, fighting was officially halted. Since that day, grateful citizens have commemorated the date, remembering the war and the soldiers who fought it in and every other war. In Europe it is known as Armistice Day and in the United States it is called Veterans Day.

Flanders, a region in Belgium, experienced particularly intense fighting and casualties, and has been memorialized in poem. An American cemetery was built for the many soldiers who died fighting in World War I.

Flanders Field American Cemetery and Memorial

November 17: Suez Canal

The Suez Canal, a waterway connection between the Mediterranean and Red Sea, was officially opened November 17, 1869. The Egyptian canal created a new trade route between Europe and Asia, cutting off thousands of miles of dangerous sea travel around the Cape of Good Hope at the southern end of Africa.

The canal is still in constant use today, making global travel and trade faster and more convenient.

Suez Canal

November 19

Four months after the Battle of Gettysburg, President Lincoln traveled to the site to dedicate a soldiers’ cemetery. President Lincoln’s short speech followed a two-hour keynote address, and while well-received, was not lauded right away. However, with the perspective of history, his speech is recognized as one of the most important speeches in America. It canonized the American ideal of “government by the people, of the people, and for the people”.

Gettysburg

November 22

One of the most infamous events in American history is the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas on November 22, 1963. The President and his wife traveled to Texas on a political trip. The presidential motorcade traveled downtown to greet well-wishers. President Kennedy was shot in the neck and head by Lee Harvey Oswald. He died a few hours later.

The X marks the spot where President Kennedy was shot

His wife Jacqueline planned a memorable state funeral, and he was laid to rest in Arlington Cemetery, with an “eternal flame” memorial.

John F. Kennedy burial site

November 26

On the evening of November 26, 2008, a coordinated terror attack in Mumbai, India, began. Terrorists attacked 12 separate sites throughout the city, and the attacks lasted four days. More than 174 people died, including 31 individuals at the five-star Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, which was also the final place to be secured by government forces on Sunday, November 29. The hotel became a symbol of the attacks and the impact they had on the psyche and economy of Mumbai and India.

Taj Mahal Palace & Tower

Every day, history is being made. Not everyone will discover an ancient tomb or give a memorable speech, but everyone has the potential to change the world around them. So, be bold and make your own history.

May 19, 2019May 19, 2019

A Farewell to Game of Thrones

Whether you’ve bent the knee to Daenerys, Jon, Sansa or Tyrion, chances are you’re looking forward in anticipation the end of Game of Thrones (or aren’t watching the show and can’t wait for this all to be over with).

Over 8 seasons of production, Game of Thrones has filmed in hundreds of locations across Europe (mostly), using everything from iconic architecture to built-for-the show sets.

User kkeps has gathered an amazing collection of over 140 Game of Thrones filming locations that you have to check out:

Below you can check out a sample of these iconic real-world Game of Thrones filming locations!

Doune Castle (Winterfell in Game of Thrones)

Castle Black set ("Game of Thrones")

Great Sept of Baelor (Game of Thrones Filming Location)

"Prince Oberyn vs. The Mountain" battle site (Game of Thrones)

Jaime trains to fight ("Game of Thrones")

The Bloody Gate site ("Game of Thrones")

"Prince Oberyn vs. The Mountain" battle site (Game of Thrones)

Highgarden ("Game of Thrones")

Castle Ward

Verdala Palace ("Game of Thrones")

Nymeria attacks Joffrey ("Game of Thrones")

Mdina Gate ("Game of Thrones")

Pjazza Mesquita ("Game of Thrones")

Tourney of the Hand ("Game of Thrones")

Tower of Joy ("Game of Thrones")

Vaes Dothrak set ("Game of Thrones")

Banys Àrabs ("Game of Thrones")

Battle of the Bastards site ("Game of Thrones")

Itzurun Beach ("Game of Thrones")

Dany battles the Lannisters ("Game of Thrones")

If you want more, definitely check out an interactive map of all 140+ filming locations: Part 1 and Part 2!

December 28, 2018January 9, 2019

Celebrity Honeymoon Destinations

Celebrities are known for their elaborate lifestyles, and that extravagance often extends to weddings and honeymoons. These celebrity honeymoon destinations show us that if you can, you should certainly do what these newlyweds did—dream big and enjoy every minute of the vacation!

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux—Bora Bora

Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux were engaged for years before secretly tying the knot at their Bel Air mansion in front of a surprised but celebratory audience who arrived at their house expecting to attend a surprise birthday party put on by the happy couple.

Jennifer Aniston's House

After their backyard wedding, Aniston and Theroux were off to Bora Bora, with several of their closest friends including Courtney Cox, Sacha Baron Cohen and Isla Fisher, Jimmy Kimmel and his wife, Chelsea Handler and Jason Bateman.

Once in Bora Bora, the entourage stayed at the five-star Four Seasons Bora Bora, which has individual bungalows for residents, catamaran tours, water activities, SCUBA diving and more. The island paradise was the perfect getaway for the happy couple and their friends to really celebrate their love and marriage.

George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin Clooney—North Island Seychelles

George Clooney and Amal Alamuddin Clooney are the epitome of class, style and luxury. When you have a four day wedding celebration in Venice, Italy with all the A-list celebrities from around the world, you have to do something spectacular for your honeymoon.

That mission was accomplished when they headed over to the Seychelles, a group of islands made famous in the United States when Prince William and Kate Middleton honeymooned there after their 2011 wedding.

George Clooney's House (Formerly Stevie Nicks')

Villa Oleandra - George Clooney's House

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's House

Their Seychelles destination was the exclusive and secluded North Island resort that advertises a unique, private and extraordinary vacation. Guests arrive at the North Island via helicopter, which provides a grand entrance worthy of such a remote, breathtaking and all-encompassing experience sure to be enjoyed at the resort.

Once on the resort, guests have every need and want catered to by a well-trained and extremely professional staff. Hotel suites are designed for privacy, integrating their design into the tropical environment of the island.

Villa North Island — Photo Credit: North Island Seychelles

Guests have their choice of many activities, from relaxing massages and spa treatments to catered beach activities, jungle excursions and water activities. The area boasts incredible warm water SCUBA diving, shark tours, snorkeling and other water activities.

North Island Scuba — Photo Credit: North Island Seychelles

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West—Ballyfin Demesne, Ireland

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West do everything big. Even Kanye’s wedding proposal was big! He rented out AT&T Field in San Francisco, hired a 50 piece orchestra and had a fireworks show just to propose to her in October 2013.

Kim Kardashian & Kanye West's House

So when after their wedding they took off for their destination in Ireland, some were quite surprised. Ireland doesn’t seem like the first choice for the scene-seeking Kardashian and West. However, their honeymoon was remarkable nonetheless.

Ballyfin Ireland — Photo Credit: Courtesy Ballyfin Demesne

Their Irish destination was the historic Ballyfin Demesne, an 18^th century hotel near the mountains, declared the best hotel in the world by Conde Nast travel magazine. The five-star hotel has only 20 rooms, with an incredible staff that caters to every need of their guests, ensuring they have an experience worthy of the reputation.

Ballyfin Ireland 2 — Photo Credit: Ballyfin Demesne

The hotel was opened in 2011, after being painstakingly decorated in the romantic style, with imported 19^th century Italian mosaic tile, a medieval inspired castle tower, small lakes and 614 acres of gardens perfect for guests to explore and enjoy.

Ballyfin Ireland 3 — Photo Credit: Ballyfin Demesne

The hotel is located near many fun outdoor activities, including rowing on serene lakes, meandering through landscaped and wild gardens, golfing, mountain biking and socializing with locals at pubs.

Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth—Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Reese Witherspoon has a reputation as an all-American girl, but after she and agent Jim Toth married at their California ranch, the two flew to the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Reese Witherspoon's House (former)

Positano is a small village on the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, built on the steep mountainside rising up from the Mediterranean Ocean. The couple stayed at the award winning hotel Sirenuse, in the high cliffs of Positano. American writer John Steinbeck stayed there in his Italian travels in the 1950s. His article for Harper’s Bazaar turned Positano from a poor fishing village to a tourist hot spot for visitors from around the world.

Steinbeck wrote that the hotel, creating an international reputation for history, magnificence and romantic memories that has only grown since his writing. “We went to the Sirenuse, an old family house converted into a first class hotel, spotless and cool, with grape arbors over its outside dining rooms. Every room has its little balcony and looks out over the blue sea to the islands of the sirens from which those ladies sang so sweetly”.

Sirenuse 2 — Photo Credit: Sirenuse Hotel

In recent years, the hotel has developed a more high-end reputation, including adding an oyster and champagne bar, five-star spa and ensuring the hotel rooms and customer service are worthy of the hotel’s international acclaim.

Sirenuse 3 — Photo Credit: Sirenuse Hotel

A beach vacation with friends, an exclusive island, a castle in the European countryside and a romantic hotel on the cliffs of Italy, it’s clear these celebrities know how to live! Here’s to hoping they keep the romance of these destinations alive and remain as happy as the day they said “I do”!

November 13, 2018

Famous Hotels Around the World

On your next family vacation, you’re a lot more likely to stay in a Holiday Inn Express than in a five star luxury hotel, but if you’re lucky enough to travel on an unlimited budget anywhere you want, you should definitely check out these famous hotels.

The Ritz Paris

One of the most iconic hotels in the world, the Ritz Paris in the heart of the City of Lights is at the top of any luxury traveler’s list. Established in 1898, the hotel quickly became one of the grandest hotels in Paris and the world.

The likes of Coco Chanel and Ernest Hemingway lived here, and Princess Diana dined here right before her death. Rooms in the 18th century-styled hotel start at $1,400 and go up to nearly $30,000.

Hôtel Ritz Paris

Plaza Hotel New York

The Plaza is located in prime New York real estate, along 5th Avenue and Central Park South. It is designed in a French Renaissance style, and rooms go for at least $1,000 per night.

Donald Trump bought the hotel in 1988, but had to turn many of the suites into condominiums in an effort to pay off debt. The hotel offers babysitting, butler service, grand ballrooms and luxury suites for its guests.

The Plaza Hotel

Chateau Marmont

The Chateau Marmont in Los Angeles is famous for being famous, and catering to the rich and famous. It has been the scene and setting for movies, the place where stars live, famous gather to party, and some have even taken their last breath there, like John Belushi in 1982.

Standard rooms start around $500, but penthouses go for a few thousand a night. If that’s too rich for your budget, you can dine at the famous Restaurant at Chateau Marmont.

The Chateau Marmont

Beverly Hills Hotel

Located in the center of Los Angeles on Sunset Boulevard, the Beverly Hills Hotel caters to the rich and famous, and those who want to be near the rich and famous. It has both hotel rooms and bungalows, which often cater to those wishing spend time away from their homes while remaining in the city, for parties, affairs and discreet meetups.

The reclusive Howard Hughes kept a permanent room there, but only the hotel chef would know when he was on site, as he had to prepare midnight meals to serve the oddball billionaire.

Beverly Hills Hotel

Raffles Hotel Singapore

The uniquely named Raffles Hotel was named after the British founder of Singapore, Sir Thomas Raffles. The hotel design is classic British colonial, and has been expanded several times over its 150 year history. During its occupation during World War II, the staff buried the hotel valuables, including the silver collection.

The hotel is under renovation at the moment, but when the work is completed, it will continue to live up to its reputation as one of the most luxurious and desirable hotels in the world.

Raffles Hotel

There are luxury hotels around the world, but if you have a chance to stay in one of these, you should put it at the top of your to do list; and if not, at least enjoy imagining what it’s like on this virtual tour.

June 7, 2018

Great British Castles

With all the focus on the recent royal wedding between Prince Harry and Megan Markle, it’s a perfect time to take a virtual tour of some of Britain’s amazing castles. There’s Windsor, where Harry and Megan were married, and Buckingham in London, but there are many more castles all throughout Great Britain that can take your breath away.

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle, located outside London, is the largest inhabited castle in the world, with a permanent staff in residence since the queen and her entourage stay there most weekends. It was built by William the Conqueror, and has continually been inhabited by aristocracy and royalty since then, making it the longest-inhabited castle in Europe.

It has a classic fortification encompassing 13 acres, complete with a small town, a church, a motte and bailey design, and a keep in the center of the castle grounds.

Windsor Castle

The King Henry VIII Gate is a prominent and attractive entrance to the lower ward of the castle grounds.

King Henry VIII Gate at Windsor Castle

St. George’s Chapel has recently gained international fame as the venue for the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Megan Marke in May 2018. The Gothic structure can hold about 800 people for such events. It is the resting place of many kings, queens and other royalty, including Henry VIII, Jane Seymour, George V and George VI and their wives, and it is the planned resting place of the current queen, Queen Elizabeth II and her immediate family members.

St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle

Buckingham Palace

Easily the most famous castle in Great Britain, Buckingham Palace is located in Westminister, a small city within London. It has been the main royal residence since Queen Victoria, and now serves as the administrative center for Queen Elizabeth II.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace itself is an iconic part of the royal image. Tourists from around the world gather to view the royal residence, hoping to catch a glimpse of Prince William or Harry, and have a little fun thinking about what it’s like to be royalty.

Buckingham Palace

Visitors love to see the changing of the guard, a ritual as famous as the palace itself. The Queen’s Guard, in their iconic red jackets and tall bearskin hats, march back and forth in front of the main gate, keeping the queen safe and tradition in tact.

Changing of the Guard, Buckingham Palace

Warwick Castle

Warwick Castle is an ancient castle originally built at the time of William the Conqueror and reinforced over the next few hundred years as it played vital roles in several wars throughout England’s history. It played a crucial role in the coming to power of the first major royal dynasty, the Plantagenet family.

Warwick Castle

The castle has iconic medieval features including large towers, the motte and bailey design, and a dungeon complete with torture devices. The castle has daily showcases of castle life including jousting and tournament events. Additionally, exciting amateur but accurate battle reenactments often take place outside and around the castle.

Medieval encampment at Warwick Castle

Stirling Castle

Anyone who has seen Braveheart or is familiar with Scottish history will know how important Stirling Castle is. Stirling Castle is built on a large hill that has been home to fortifications and settlements since at least the third century CE. Some even believe it is where King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table met.

Stirling Castle

The first castle was constructed around 1110, and was a major center of Scottish government by 1200. Most of the castle structures and fortifications were built in the 1400s and 1500s. Several battles between England and Scotland during the Wars of Scottish Independence were fought here, including the famed Battle of Stirling Bridge where the outnumbered Scots routed the English. However, success was fleeting and the war continued for several more decades. England and Scotland continued to fight one another until their eventual unification in 1707.

Stirling Castle

William Wallace, the hero of the Battle of Stirling Bridge, was so famed for his bravery and merciless efforts for Scottish independence that when he was captured by English forces, the King ordered him hanged, drawn and quartered. Wallace is now a Scottish national hero, and the Wallace Monument in Stirling honors his memory.

William Wallace statue

Hever Castle

Hever Castle in Kent, England, has been around since the 1200s and was enlarged and enhanced in the 1400s, with a distinct Tudor influence on the design. The strong Tudor influence can be felt throughout the castle and the grounds, including a Tudor style garden maze.

Hever Castle maze

However, it later fell into disrepair and it wasn’t until American millionaire William Waldorf Astor purchased it that it was renovated for use as his private residence. It was eventually sold and is now open to the public.

Hever Castle

It was particularly important in Tudor England, as it is the childhood home of Ann Boleyn, second wife of Henry VIII. It was later given to Anne of Cleves, the fourth wife of Henry VIII.

British history is much older and broader than even these castles can show, but they are am important and famous part of the history and country. Anyone who wants to really get a feel for the island’s history must make sure to stop at at least one castle!