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Visiting the Shinsekai District in Osaka is like visiting a movie set filming a village fair scene with a carnival kind of feel! Everything here looks like a prop...colourful neon signs literally popping out of street corners with giant masks staring down at you, retro video game arcades, street food vendors serving typical Japanese delights like the Takoyaki, small go-karts zipping past on open streets, cheap bars, funfair attractions like shooting galleries...all of this with the Tsutenkaku Tower looming over the top! If this description doesn't catch your fancy, then maybe these pictures will... This is Osaka at its liveliest, especially in the evening. You can aimlessly wander around these lanes; that's what everyone seems to be doing! Shinsekai District is only about 2 km from the city centre, Namba. You can walk and explore the city, and if you're not keen on walking, then you can take the Midosuji Line to Dobusuen-mae Station, from where you'll have to walk for 6 minutes to reach Shinsekai. The hotspot in Shinsekai is the Tsutenkaku Tower. There is a lot of activity around it. The tower has three main attractions: the Observatory, the Tower Slider, and dive-and-walk on the rooftop. We were short on time, so we opted for the Tower Slider only. Tower Slider is a 60-metre-long transparent slide wrapped around the outside of the tower, which takes you from the third floor of Tsutenkaku Tower to the basement, dropping you 22 metres in just 10 seconds. The preparation for the ride is more exciting than the 10-second ride itself. You're made to wear a helmet and a sack to put your feet into. You will then be led through a maze of staircases to the top and made to sit on an open metallic pipe with your hands crossed across your chest. You will smile into the camera fitted over the chute and be pushed into the metallic chute. Sounds great, but the ride is simply too short to even experience the adrenaline rush. On the fifth floor of the tower is the Billiken Statue; rubbing the feet of this smiling deity is believed to bring good fortune. Once you're done with the Tower, you can savour many authentic Japanese dishes at the many food outlets. Osaka Shinsekai is a great place to spend a fun-filled evening in Osaka and savour local cuisine at very reasonable prices with the retro charm of Osaka as the background!

Miyajima Island is part of the famous '3 Most Scenic Views' of Japan, the other two being Amanohashidate , or Bridge to Heaven, a 3-kilometre-long sandbar covered with lush pine trees in Kyoto Prefecture, and Matsushima Bay, a serene bay comprising 200 small islands covered with pine trees in Miyagi Prefecture. So what makes Miyajima special? If you're wondering what makes this small island so special, you will have to get on a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea and see this heavenly sight for yourself. As the ferry approaches the island, the bright 50-feet-tall vermilion-coloured Torii Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine glistening in the sun comes into view. The gate is placed on the edge of the massive water body, marking a symbolic entrance into the sacred island of Miyajima and the Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, dedicated to the gods of seas and storms. The vermillion colour is believed to ward off evil spirits. During special festivals, boats with worshippers are made to pass through the gate as if creating a transition between the material world and the realm of the sea deities. We disembark from the ferry at the pier and start walking towards the Torii Gate through massive stone gates. It is morning, the tide is low, so we walk right up to the massive pillars of the torii gate. As the day progresses, the water level in the sea rises, the torii gate begins to gradually get submerged in the seawater, and its pillars start sinking. At this time, the gate appears to be moving away and floating on the water, creating a surreal vision that visitors flock to watch... About Miyajima Island Miyajima Island lies in the Seto Inland Sea of Hiroshima Bay, only 28 kilometres from the city of Hiroshima. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and the famous Mount Misen. The island is home to many beautiful temples, like the Itsukushima Shrine and Daisho-in and also offers many fun activities, like taking the ropeway to the top of Mount Misen, where you can get panoramic views of the island and the sea all around. My Top 5 Tips for Your Visit to Miyajima Island Since Miyajima is a very popular tourist destination in Japan, it is well-connected by train from Hiroshima. The easiest way to reach Miyajima is to take the JR San'yō Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-guchi Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, walk for 5 minutes to reach the Miyajima Passenger Terminal. There is a ferry every 10 to 15 minutes from the pier. The ferry ride across the sea will take about 10 minutes. If you hold a JR pass, it will be valid on the ferry as well. If you're doing a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, you'll have to take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima and follow the same route as mentioned above, but your travel time will be at least 2 to 2.5 hours one way. Like most tourists, we opted for a day trip to Miyajima. But if you have an extra day, then an overnighter would give you a chance to experience this serene island minus the crowds that throng it during the day. Also, staying overnight is a good option if you wish to experience the traditional Ryokan  (Japanese inn). Many hotels also offer upscale facilities with Onsen  (hot springs). There's a lot to see and do in Miyajima apart from the Itsukushima Shrine, of course. You can opt for the ropeway to the top of Mount Misen to get scenic views of the island of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea. If you're not up for the hike, then you can just follow the many beautiful walking trails to explore the island. If you're looking for a spiritual and calming experience, visiting the Daisho-in Temple should be at the top of your list. We opted for the Daisho-in Temple, which turned out to be another show stealer, apart from the Itsukushima Shrine, of course. Plan your Miyajima trip so you can see the Torii gate at both low and high tide, to get glorious views of the gate as shown in the pictures above. You cannot leave Miyajima without savouring Momiji Manju , a small maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, which is super delicious and easily available at roadside kiosks. Another famous delicacy of the region is oyster tempura and deep-fried oysters...simply amazing! Itsukushima Shrine The beautiful Shinto shrine of Itsukushima on Miyajima Island was built as early as the 6th century and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It is also a designated National Treasure of Japan. Shintoism is based on the principle of nature-worship, and this shrine embodies that principle as it is built facing the sea with the mountains as the backdrop, providing the perfect balance of Shinto architecture and natural beauty. This shrine has long, open corridors and 108 bays of vermilion-painted wooden pillars, which stand in striking contrast to the natural blue and green landscape all around. These walkways connect the main shrine with the surrounding structures, and visitors can walk around the corridors, soaking in the calm beauty of the shrine. The shrine is open on all days of the year from 6:30 am, closing time varies from 5:00 pm on most days to 5:30 pm sometimes. Please check the timings upon arrival to plan your visit accordingly. You can buy separate tickets for the shrine and the Treasure Hall for 300 yen each or buy a combined ticket for 500 yen. There is a lot of walking involved along the corridors of the shrine; wear comfortable shoes since the floorboards are made of wooden planks. Along the west corridor is the Tenjin Shrine, dedicated to the god of learning. You will see big groups of school students bowing their heads in reverence here to invoke the blessings of the deity. We spent almost 2 hours exploring this beautiful shrine. With just half a day left, we decided to visit the famous Daisho-in Temple. Coming up next...

Miyajima is full of surprises - two famous shrines, both so different, both equally mesmerising. On the one hand is the tourist hotspot of Itsukushima Shrine...long vermilion-painted corridors that spell grandeur with the majestic views of the Torii gate that demand instant attention right from the moment you disembark from the ferry on Miyajima; on the other hand, is Daishō-in Temple, a hidden gem, quietly tucked away from the bustle of the touristy glare and yet so enchanting that you thank your stars that you could come so far into the island to see it and did not give it a miss! Believe it or not, this was the first thought that came to my mind upon visiting Daishō-in. Established as early as 806 CE, Daishō-in is Miyajima's oldest temple and one of the 3 great temples in Japan. The temple is believed to be what the Japanese call a 'Power Spot', implying it has miraculous abilities to ward off evil and bring good luck! Getting to and around Daishō-in Temple As you exit from the Itsukushima Shrine, walk for about 10 minutes uphill through the quaint town of Miyajima. Follow the road signs along the scenic route. Daishō-in is located at the foot of Mount Misen across a bridge. Don't miss the stunning wooden sculptures at the entrance of the temple The main gate of the temple is called the Niomon Gate, which is guarded by two fierce-looking statues, called Agyo and Ungyo. Once you enter, you will be led up a broad staircase of about 200 steps. In the middle is a wide railing; underneath are small, elongated gold pipes, spinning metal wheels inscribed with Buddhist Sutras . Spinning the pipes gently as you go up the steps is considered very auspicious. On your left, you will see a massive bell called the Century Bell. Strike the bell with the heavy gong just once and wait to hear its echo piercing the silence of the temple. Keep walking up the stairs to reach the main courtyard of the temple, which houses the Kannondo Hall. This splendid hall is a riot of colour with elaborate Mandalas (a colourful geometric design of great symbolic significance in both Buddhism and Hinduism), stunning statues and motifs. The most eye-catching statue is that of the 11-headed Kannon (considered to be the Bodhisattva of Mercy). Photography inside the Kannondo Hall is not forbidden, but I did not take a picture of this statue out of respect for the locals who were worshipping there at the time. In front of the Kannondo Hall is a life-size statue of Binzurusonjya , popularly known as the Touch and Cure Buddha. He is considered to be one of the best disciples of Buddha with miraculous powers to heal anyone who touches this statue on any part of the body that is in pain. We were tired from all the walking around the island, my legs were hurting, so I touched the knees and legs of this statue. I cannot say for sure that the pain was gone instantly, but it sure felt good! Another interesting statue that is sure to catch your attention is the statue of Enma Daio , the ruler of hell, as per Japanese belief. He maintains a scroll of all the good and bad deeds of human beings in this lifetime and the past, and rewards or punishes people accordingly. I found this statue especially intriguing since we have his counterpart in Hinduism too, called Yama , the God of Death and his assistant, called Chitragupt , responsible for maintaining an impartial account of all the good and bad deeds of humans and dealing with them accordingly after they leave their material bodies. At the rear of the temple is the beautiful Henjokutsu Cave . Visiting this cave can be a spiritually uplifting experience. It is dimly lit with hundreds of glowing lanterns and 88 Buddhist statues, each representing a temple from the Shikoku Pilgrimage. ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shikoku_Pilgrimage ) After exploring the temple grounds of Daishō-in, you can take a hiking trail up to the summit of Mount Misen, where more temple halls are located. The hike should take about 2 hours. We had to skip the hike owing to a lack of time and thereby also skip the chance to see Reikado, Hall of the Spiritual Flame and its famous Kiezu-no-hi , the Eternal Flame, which has been burning for over 1200 years! This flame is used to light the flame at the Cenotaph in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. But the real surprise was waiting for us as we headed back when we were treated to this amazing sight... As you walk back towards the entrance to the temple, a small path on your right, lined with 500 Rakyan, will lead you out towards the Niomon Gate. Rakyans are disciples of Buddha, each with a unique, distinct expression on their face. Their heads are adorned with small red caps, which are donated by visitors as an offering to protect them from the cold. This path creates an other-worldly charm that is hard to express in plain words...the calm of the temple grounds with the echo of the bell chiming now and then, and these Rakyans guiding your way out back into the real world! Some Handy Tips for a Day at the Daishō-in Temple The temple is a treasure trove of wonders, one more enchanting than the other. We had allocated a good 2 hours to see it, but upon reaching there, I realised that we should've kept one hour more. If you wish to hike to the summit of Mount Misen, then you will need this extra time. It is an active temple, so be mindful of your conduct and what you wear. Preferably, cover your knees and shoulders. You will also see a lot of people worshipping and praying. Maintain decorum accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes. There is a lot of walking involved, plus one needs to remove their shoes at some places in the temple. Moving around the temple grounds can be tough for people with limited mobility. The temple is free to enter from 8 am to 5 pm on all days. The temple hosts many festivals throughout the year, when it can get very crowded. Please refer to the official website before your visit https://deep-miyajima.daisho-in.com/english/ That's Miyajima for you....in the evening, we boarded the JR Line to our next destination...Kyoto. Coming up next!

Visiting shrines like the Fushimi Inari Taisha is what makes a trip to Japan so special! Nowhere in the world will you have such a sublime spiritual experience presented as a tourist attraction with all the conveniences it brings along. Over ten thousand bright vermilion-painted torii gates straddle both sides of the narrow mountain path leading up to Mount Inari. The gates create an orange tunnel, with the sun's rays filtering through the cracks in some places, lending this path an otherworldly charm! The entire mountainous area of Fushimi Inari is dotted with many shrines and torii gates, and you will see hordes of tourists jostling their way up and down this narrow path. About Fushimi Inari Fushimi Inari is the head of all Inari shrines in Japan. The presiding deity of the shrine is Inari Okami , the deity of prosperity, rice, agriculture and fertility and the harbinger of prosperous harvests and success. Throughout the grounds of Fushimi Inari, you will see stone fox statues, Kitsune , considered messengers of Okami. These gates are painted in bright vermilion, believed to bring good fortune and dispel evil. They are gifts or donations to the shrine from businesses or individuals, with the donor's name inscribed on each gate. Passing through the gates signifies transition and movement from the mundane to the sacred, and these gates are conduits that pass the prayers to the deity. As you keep walking up the path, the gates create dazzling illusions along the way...they become narrow at some points, then spread out to let in the sunlight and then narrow down again to form an orange tunnel till you reach the top of the mountain. Torii gate at the entrance to the shrine Don't miss the stone fox statues on both sides of the shrine Walking through the torii gates My first-hand tips for your visit to the Fushimi Inari Fushimi Inari is very well connected by train. We took the local train from JR Kyoto Station on the Nara Line Platform and got off at Inari Station. Finding our way to the Nara Line wasn't difficult; there were hordes of tourists walking that way. You can spot the shrine as soon as you step out of the Inari Station. The best time to visit the shrine is early morning or late evening to beat the crowds. I would strongly recommend going early morning. We reached there at about 9 am, and it was already buzzing with tourists, a lot of them on their way back from the mountain top. I am quite sure the experience of seeing this shrine when the crowds are thin would be absolutely mesmerising and very peaceful. Crowds get thicker as the day progresses Entrance to the shrine is free. Once you reach, you should straight hit the path leading to Mount Inari and not spend time at the other shrines that fall en route. You can see those shrines on your way back. Keep aside at least 2 to 3 hours for this entire outing. It's a 2 km one-way walk. The slope is not too steep, but it certainly involves a lot of walking with thousands of steps. There are a lot of dirt paths along the way, too, with smaller shrines and very small torii gates in a picture-perfect ambience. We were slightly short on time, but ideally, one should laze around in this serene setting to soak in its calmness. Smaller shrines and torii gates along the path The shrines at the base around the entrance are very crowded with people at all times. Keep walking to reach the Yotsutsuji Intersection Viewpoint. From there, you will have to walk another 30 minutes to the top. The higher you go, the thinner the crowds get, which adds to the allure of this serene shrine. There's lots of walking involved, but the entire area is well-equipped with traditional cafes and food stalls. Toilets, like everywhere else in Japan, are clean and free. So, spend a leisurely morning in this haven of beauty and tranquillity and come back refreshed in body and soul. Our second attraction for the day was the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Coming up next!

The Sanjūsangendō Temple in Kyoto is a cherished national treasure of Japan. As you enter the temple grounds, you will see the Great Hall, a huge wooden structure measuring about 120 metres, the longest wooden building in Japan. About Sanjūsangendō Temple As you step inside the Great Hall, you will be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of 1001 life-size, exquisite wooden statues of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, made of Japanese cypress and decorated with gold leaf, standing in multiple rows. In the centre of these statues is the 3.3-metre-tall giant seated figure of the thousand-armed Kannon, the presiding deity of the temple, considered to be a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist sculpture. This figure is so grand and intricate that we spent almost 15 minutes just taking in the details of this mammoth idol. In front of these 1001 statues are 28 statues of 'Guardian Deities' of Shiva, Vishnu and other demigods with origins in Hinduism. The Great Hall offers a mesmerising sight, and one can easily spend about an hour looking at these stunning statues and reading about them. My Tip If you're looking for an unspoiled spiritual experience right in the city centre, then Sanjūsangendō is a temple you must visit. The relics that you see here are unparalleled in their beauty. The only downside is that photography is strictly prohibited, but in a way, that brings a calming effect to the whole experience. Don't forget to pick a free pamphlet from the temple premises. The photos posted above are taken from the pamphlet. This is a revered place of worship, so visitors are expected to take off their shoes before entering the Great Hall and deposit them in a locker provided on the premises. Entry to the temple is paid, 600 yen for an adult. The temple is generally open from 8:30 am to 5 pm daily.

The Old Town, with its famous Old Town Square, is the liveliest part of the city of Prague. One can easily spend many hours strolling alongside the hundreds of fellow visitors, gaping at the sights and soaking in the amazing vibe of this city. There are 10 important landmarks that one should aspire to see while in the Old Town a. Staromestske Namesti, Old Town Square b. Old Town Hall and Astronomical Clock c. Church of our Lady before Tyn d. St. Nicholas Church e. Kinsky Palace f. Jan Hus Monument g. Prague Meridien h. Jewish Museum / Jewish Quarter i. Spanish Synagogue j. Powder Tower and Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House a. Staromestske Namesti, Old Town Square The Old Town Square is a large pedestrian zone in the Old Town. You will see hundreds of people flocking around its famous historical monuments, jostling with each other. While in Prague, you should aim to spend at least 2 to 3 hours in the square to soak in the vibe of this amazing city. The square is a popular site for all kinds of demonstrations and gatherings. You can never tire of sitting on one of the benches and seeing the world go by. b. Old Town Hall and Prague Astronomical Clock The Old Town Hall was established in the 12th Century and served as the administrative seat for the Old Town. The Town Hall is a set of five medieval houses with one corner occupied by the mammoth rectangular tower and the Astronomical Clock. Conducted tours of the Town Hall are available every hour, depending on your choice of language. We'd read some excellent reviews about the tour of the Town Hall, but didn't go for it because it was very cool and sunny that day, and we preferred spending time outdoors. And now the famous Prague Astronomical Clock...also known as Prague Orloj, this clock is a must-see attraction in Prague. Prague Orloj is just a clock that shows time, except for the fact that it has been doing so for the last 600 years or more!! Built in 1410, this is one of the oldest and most complex astronomical clocks in the World, and it draws millions of visitors to Prague each year!! This 15th-century clock chimes every hour, and a skeleton hanging on the outside rings the bell to announce the hour. Then, there is the 'Walk of the Apostles', where 12 mechanical figures of apostles appear in the window above every hour. Basically, to say that there is a good amount of drama around the clock that is fun to watch. There is a surge of crowds in front of the clock as noon approaches, and people gather to see the display. The Gothic-style outer facade of the clock is impressive; it tracks celestial movements, phases of the moon, and shows the movement of the Sun and other Zodiac constellations. My Tip There is an elevator for an extra charge if you decide to go up to the top of the tower. You will get very nice views of Prague, and you will be able to see the working mechanism of this clock from the inside. It's a good idea to read about this clock before your trip to appreciate its working, how it was heavily damaged during World War II and how it was painstakingly restored to its present condition. c. Church of our Lady before Tyn The tall spires of this church are visible from a lot of places in Prague, but the entrance to the church is from the Old Town Square through a small alley. You will have to look for the entrance closely since it is sandwiched between two restaurants that are located right outside the church. The beautiful edifice of the church looks ethereal during sunset. The interiors and the altar are stunning. Entry is free. In summer, a lot of concerts are organised here; if you're interested, the ticket office is right next to the entrance of the church. d. St. Nicholas Church in Old Town Square There are 2 St. Nicholas Churches in Prague. This one is in the Old Town Square and the other one is in the Lesser Town. Entry to St. Nicholas Church in Old Town Square is free, while the other is paid. The Church has a beautiful altar and a stunning chandelier. You can just walk in and admire the beautiful frescoes of this Gothic and Baroque-style church. e. Kinsky Palace Right in front of the Church of Our Lady before Tyn lies this beautiful Rococo structure with its distinct, elegant exterior. The palace is now an art museum. It was closed for renovation, so we could not see it from the inside. But the outer facade of the palace blends beautifully with the church spires jutting out from the background. Great photo opportunity. f. Jan Hus Monument This monument is the first thing you'll see as you step into the Old Town Square. The massive memorial is dedicated to Jan Hus, a theologian and religious reformer in the 16th century, who condemned the catholic church for its moral decay. My Tip There are lots of benches around the monument where you can sit and relax. You will find nice fast-food cafes around this place, which serve the famous Czech sweet pastry called Trdelnik. The pastry is delicious, you can get a filling of ice cream on top...Umm...yum!! g. Prague Meridien This narrow strip of brass on the ground near the Jan Hus Monument was used to tell the time in Prague from the mid-17th century till 1918! You will have to look at the centre of the Old Town Square to be able to locate it. Tourists are always flocking around this place for selfies, so locating it should not be a problem! h. Jewish Museum / Jewish Quarter Like in a lot of other places in Europe, the Jewish Museum refers to the many historical buildings of the Jewish Ghetto, where Jews were forced to move from other parts of Prague. I had read somewhere before leaving for Prague that Hitler wanted to preserve this area in Prague as a museum for the extinct Jewish Race. So, ironically, a lot of artefacts were plundered from other parts of the world and brought here for preservation and display. This had caught my fancy, and we made it a point to see the Jewish Quarter. There is a statue of Franz Kafka, the most famous Jew of Prague, here in the Jewish Quarter. My Tip The entire area is laden with Jewish history. There are many options for buying tickets on the day of your visit along with an optional audio guide. The neighbourhood has a distinct character that is hard to describe, but you can feel it when you're there. You can buy tickets at the Information and Reservation Centre on the day of your visit. But if you're looking for a conducted tour, then you can take the Jewish Quarter Tour. The walking tour lasted about 3 hours, and it took us deep into the turbulent history of the Jews in Prague. Owing to the massive crowds, we had bought the tour online beforehand. I'm not sure that you will be able to book a conducted tour there and then. i. Spanish Synagogue This stunning Synagogue is included in the Jewish Quarter Tour. The prefix Spanish was associated with this synagogue owing to its Moorish revival architecture that can also be seen distinctly in the Alhambra in Spain. The ornate interiors of the synagogue just blew us away. This beautiful structure reminded me of the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Not-to-miss attraction! The pictures I had taken did not do justice to this stunning structure, hence I've picked a professionally clicked picture here. j. Powder Tower and Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House Powder Tower is a beautiful Gothic gate that separates the New Town from the Old Town. The tower, I believe, dates back to the 1400s. Its exterior facade has been blackened over the years. In the early 18th Century, this tower was used to store gunpowder, hence the name. Right next to the Powder Gate is Obecni Dum, Prague Municipal House. Entry to the building is free. Inside Obecni Dum is Smetana Hall, one of the most popular concert halls in Prague. The structure is unbelievably beautiful and offers great photo opportunities. You can refer to their official website if you're interested in watching a concert. https://www.obecnidum.cz/ My Tip If you have the energy, walk up the Powder Tower's 150-plus steps, which are slightly uneven in some places but not very tedious to cover. The views you get all around are okay, nothing spectacular. You can spend the saved time along the river instead. So, that is Prague Old Town for you. You will need at least one day to cover this entire area at leisure. While in Prague Old Town Square, don't forget to taste Trdelník from one of the roadside eateries offering this delightful Czech pastry with ice cream, then sit on one of the benches around the square while you relish your dessert. If you visit Prague Old Town, do share your experience with me. For some more useful travel tips, click here

A trip to Prague is incomplete without seeing Prague Castle, the largest castle in Europe. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most interesting one I have yet seen, owing to a variety of buildings and structures that belong to different eras and yet stand together very cohesively in this castle complex. Prague Castle is an overload of culture and history. You can see the relics of Bohemian kings, stunning artworks, historical manuscripts and above all, the crown jewels. The 9th-century castle is an awe-inspiring complex of 6 main attractions - Old Royal Palace - St. Vitus Cathedral - St. George's Basilica - Lobkowicz Palace - Golden Lane - Permanent Exhibitions of Prague Castle Here are a few handy tips for your visit We visited the Prague Castle Complex without much prior information. Upon reaching there, I realised that we should've researched it, the foremost reason being the sheer size of the complex. So, I've jotted down some basic facts for you that could be very helpful in case you go visiting. - The castle complex is massive, covering an area of 70,000 square meters. You need to set aside at least 3 to 4 hours to see this complex. - It takes only 15 minutes on foot from Charles Bridge to reach the castle. - Once you enter the complex, stroll along to take a good look at the stunning buildings from the outside before buying entry tickets to the paid areas. The exterior facades are as compelling as the interiors. And they are free!! - Entry into the castle complex is free. If you wish to see these attractions from the inside, then you need to buy a ticket. There are many ticket options available, so it's a good idea to do some research before you go, depending on the amount of time you have and what you wish to see. You can check the official website of Prague Castle for details - https://www.hrad.cz/en/prague-castle-for-visitor - There are Basic Circuit tickets that cover the Old Royal Palace, St. George's Basilica, Golden Lane and St. Vitus Cathedral. Apart from these 4 attractions, some permanent exhibitions can also be seen for a separate ticket. All tickets are valid for 2 days, so if you have time, then you can go back again to see what is left, but remember, entry to one attraction is permitted only once. - Over 2 million people visit the castle each year, so you can imagine the crowds thronging to enter the castle each day. Start early, especially if you want to buy tickets at the counter. If you're sure about what you wish to see, buying tickets online beforehand is better, guaranteeing you a Priority Entrance. I'll try to give you an insight into the castle to help you decide what to see. - As per the official website of the castle, photography inside the castle is not permitted. You need a valid license for it. But I saw so many people clicking pictures, and I am sure not all of them had licenses. I concluded that one just needs to do it without the use of flash. - If possible, plan your trip on a weekday for smaller crowds. Weekends can be quite busy. - The castle complex is wheelchair friendly and entry for wheelchair users and their attendants is free. - The approach to the castle complex is quite uphill; there is a very broad Old Castle staircase leading to the castle that makes walking on the incline easier, but be prepared to walk a lot. Also, there is no shade anywhere, so if it's summer, then carry an umbrella. We were scorched by the summer sun while walking uphill. After posting this blog on the Facebook page of a Prague Travel group, a fellow member of the group, Vit Spisek, pointed out that a better way to enter the castle is from Nerudova Street. This street will lead you to the square with panoramic views, and one can enter the castle from the Main Gate. And if you want to avoid walking altogether, then take tram # 22 to Prazsky hrad (Prague Castle) and enter via the North Gate. Alternatively, take tram # 22 and get down at Pohorelec. From here, you will see the Strahov Monastery and more panoramic views and then a small walk will lead you to the Main Gate. You can also walk to the North Gate through the castle gardens from Letna Park. Such detailed information could come only from a local. I am grateful to Vit for letting me share this valuable information here, and I hope everyone reading this post will find it useful. - I'd read a lot of mixed reviews about the various tour options available in the paid attractions. We were not sure what to do upon reaching the palace. The audio guide is priced at a whopping 350 CZK for some reason. Eventually, we opted for the one-hour tour that cost 250 CZK. The guide was good and the tour was very informative. - Cafes inside the castle complex are quite expensive. We paid 4 euros for a bottle of water. You can carry your food and drinks. There are a lot of places to sit around and eat. And now a word about the attractions inside the Prague Castle Old Royal Palace This beautiful Romanesque palace can be seen as part of the circuit ticket. It is still a functional hall and many ceremonial gatherings of the Czech government are still held here. My Tip The highlight of your trip to the Royal Palace is the Vladislav Hall. St. Vitus Cathedral This is the largest church in Prague. It has seen the coronations of many Czech kings and queens. My Tip This is a not-to-miss attraction. The church is stunning both on the outside and the inside. Outside, if you crane your neck, you will see such intricate details carved in stone with gargoyles and spires jutting into the sky. As you enter, you will be mesmerised by its Gothic architecture and the tall stained glass windows. St. Wenceslas Chapel is magnificent. St. George's Basilica This is the oldest church building within the castle complex. Compared to St. Vitus Cathedral, this church is quite sombre. My Tip This is included in the circuit ticket, so we watched it. Nothing spectacular about it. If you're running short on time or if you're very tired from all the walking, you can skip this one. Lobkovicz Palace The Palace is the only privately owned building in the Castle complex and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds a vast and enthralling collection of artworks belonging to the Lobkowicz family over generations. The audio guide is fun to hear as the owner, William Lobkowicz, talks about how the Nazis took away their wealth and how they re-collected all of it. My Tip There is a music concert every day at 1 pm. You must buy the combination ticket that will offer you entry to the museum along with an audio guide and a concert at 1 pm. The only negative is that the palace is hugely crowded. We had to wait a good 30 minutes in the sun to get inside. There are also quite a few steps before you see the museum. Golden Lane This lane has dwellings of the caretakers or servers of the castle. At the end of the lane is a torture chamber and a dungeon. My Tip The lane was so crowded when we got there. But it was nice and vibrant. Franz Kafka also lived here on this lane at some point. Permanent Exhibitions of Prague Castle There are 2 permanent exhibitions at the Prague Castle. - The story of Prague Castle, - Prague Castle Picture Gallery Buying the Prague Castle - Permanent Exhibition Circuit includes entry to these exhibitions. We did not see these exhibitions since we were travelling to Prague after spending a fortnight in Austria, and we'd had our fill of visiting all kinds of museums. But if you're interested in seeing these exhibitions, then please refer to the official website of Prague Castle to buy combo tickets accordingly. My parting tip to anyone visiting the castle is to refer to the official website mentioned above before your trip, because this castle is massive with many attractions to see. We wasted a lot of time and energy trying to figure out what to do and what to omit. This will give you an idea about what you're watching once you're inside the castle complex. What you do here will depend entirely on the time available to you. Not-to-miss attractions are the Old Royal Palace, Saint Vitus Cathedral and Lobkovicz Palace.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that offers an interesting insight into the Vietnamese way of life and proudly showcases its historical architectural landmarks. It's situated in Northern Vietnam on the banks of the Red River, which owes its name to the reddish-brown colour of its silt-laden water. There's a lot to do and see, so it's ideal to keep aside at least 3 days for this beautiful city. Before I elaborate on what we did and my personal experiences in Hanoi, here are the Top 5 common dos and don'ts that all visitors to Hanoi should be aware of ... The capital city of Vietnam is vibrant, so even if you stay in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, don't confine yourself to it. Venture out into the city and explore its beautiful architecture and vibe. Hanoi can be quite cold in winter and extremely hot and humid in summer. Plan your trip keeping the weather in mind. We travelled to Hanoi at the end of March. It was the tail-end of winter and very cold. We had to buy thick jackets the very evening we landed, like the hundreds of other fellow tourists who came with the misconception that Vietnam is always warm. For more tips about Vietnam, click on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/my-top-ten-tips-for-your-vietnam-trip Since we're discussing buying jackets, let me give you an important tip. Don't forget to bargain while shopping in the local market. Yes, you heard it right! Vietnamese people love to haggle over prices, so indulge them and walk away with a better deal. The city has a rich culinary culture with an unmistakable Chinese and French influence. Don't miss the amazing French cuisine in the French Quarter alongside the traditional Vietnamese cuisine comprising the famous Pho and Banh Mi. You will also find most of the popular American fast food outlets like McDonald's, KFC and Domino's in Hanoi, in case you wish to eat on the go. Download the Grab App. The best way to travel around Vietnam is by hiring a cab through the Grab App. Please note that your local SIM card will not allow you to download the App. Of course, you could also hire a cab without the Grab app, but that would involve two challenges: one, explaining the location of your destination to the driver who does not understand your language at all, and two, haggling over the price to be paid. So, Grab App!! We had three nights and two full days in Hanoi, and we packed a lot into our itinerary, which I've broken day-wise, rather than attraction-wise, so that you can plan your time accordingly. Day One - Arrival in the evening Old Quarter We reached Hanoi at about 6:00 pm and headed straight to the Old Quarter, where we were staying. The distance between the airport and the Old Quarter is 25 km, and it took us a good 45 minutes to reach. The temperature in Hanoi was a cold 16 degrees, which was unexpected.   It happened to be a weekend, and the Old Quarter seemed to be bursting at the seams with so many people all around. My Tip Plan to stay in the Old Quarter to get the real touristy vibe of the city and, better still, plan on a weekend stay. As you can see, the Old Quarter comes alive on weekends in the evening with live shows and street concerts. Day Two - Morning Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Ba Dinh Square Presidential Palace and Gardens One Pillar Pagoda We started early in the morning to see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a deeply revered Vietnamese National Monument that must feature on your Hanoi itinerary. You will also see the famous Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda on this trip since they are all right next to each other. Learn more about the Mausoleum by clicking on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/ho-chi-minh-mausoleum-hanoi Temple of Literature After spending about 2.5 hours at the Mausoleum, we headed to this historical site that is about 2 km from the Mausoleum. This is a true specimen of the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and a must-see sight. Click on the link below to read more about this amazing attraction https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/temple-of-literature-in-hanoi-vietnam Day Two - Afternoon Hoa Lo Prison Hoa Lo Prison is about 2 km from the Temple of Literature, and it takes 8 to 10 minutes on foot. The Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi was built by French colonists in 1896 to detain Vietnamese political prisoners and revolutionaries with all the trappings of a regular prison of the early 20th century. It has heart-rending torture chambers and dungeons used by the French, even a real guillotine from that era. After the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945, this prison was converted into an education centre. Ironically, once America got involved in the Vietnam War in 1965, this prison came to be used again by the North Vietnamese forces to detain the American POWs, earning the prison the infamous nickname 'Hanoi Hilton', and the torture chambers were back in violation of the Geneva Convention. My Tip There's a lot to see at the Hoa Lo Prison, which has now been turned into a museum, so allow at least 2 hours for your visit. Don't forget to take the audio guide; it's very informative. Your tour of the prison will start with the torture chambers and dungeons of the French colonists, with informative displays of maps, uniforms and their sub-human living conditions, like the dingy and narrow corridors that led to the living quarters of prisoners with not a shred of sunlight. Visitors are then led into an exhaustive exhibit featuring memorabilia from the Vietnam War, including a handwritten letter from President Ho Chi Minh. Overall, this museum is an evocative experience, the same torture chambers and the same inhuman living conditions that many of us have seen at so many other museums in the world. Avoid going in the afternoon; it gets very crowded as most people plan to spend the hot day inside the museum. There's a small cafe on the premises and some interesting souvenir shops to buy trinkets. Day Two - Evening Water Puppet Show This unique puppet theatre will leave you spellbound. Read more about this interesting art form by clicking on the link below : https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/water-puppet-show-in-hanoi Day Three - Day Trip to Ninh Binh - 8 hours Ninh Binh, also known as 'Halong Bay on Land', offers scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside, beautiful ancient temples, and stunning landscapes. Click on the link below to read more https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-ninh-binh-from-hanoi

The charming town of Hoi An is a traveller's dream destination....as dusk falls, the streets of this quaint town light up with a zillion lanterns!! You will see hordes of tourists flocking around the ancient town and strolling along the Thu Bon River, which runs through the heart of this town. The river becomes a floating tableau of colour as small boats lit with lanterns ferry tourists up and down the river, the shimmering shadows of their lanterns casting dancing luminous glows on the water. The old city of Hoi An is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site; its meticulously preserved architecture, showcasing influences from Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures, will transport you back in time. Be prepared to stroll through the cobblestone streets of Hoi An, marvelling at the ancient buildings adorned with intricate carvings in the Old Town. The entire area is a pedestrian zone, you can laze around the river, stop by at eateries and marvel at the many shops selling souvenirs and trinkets. A not-to-miss attraction in Hoi An is the 16th-century Japanese Covered Bridge . The easiest way to reach the bridge is from the Old Town. Keep walking along Tran Phu Street for a few minutes, and you will see this beautiful piece of architecture. Here are a few handy tips to know about Hoi An There is a lot of debate about whether to stay in Hoi An or do it as a day trip. Let me give my verdict. Hoi An is about 27 kilometres from Da Nang, and it takes less than an hour to reach. Most people visit Hoi An as a day trip. However, if you have an extra day, staying overnight in Hoi An is a great idea for two reasons. One, most day tours from Da Nang leave early from Hoi An before the night market is fully lit up with lanterns, so you will miss the delightful lantern display and the joy of loitering around its Old Town at dusk. The best time to see the night market is between 6 and 8 pm when the streets are lit up with magical lanterns. Two, if you wish to take the Basket Boat ride, it is closer to Hoi An, and it is recommended early in the morning, as the temperature can become very hot during the day. Coming to the Coconut Forest early in the morning from Da Nang might be difficult since it's 30 km one way. We had read some very bad reviews about the Basket Boat ride, but still decided to give it a try. Luckily, it turned out to be quite an amazing experience. You can read about our basket boat ride experience here https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/basket-boat-ride-in-hoi-an-vietnam Hoi An will captivate you, not just by its lantern-lit streets but also by its diverse culinary scene. Both sides of the river are lined with eateries, catering to every taste and budget. You can get amazing street food and drinks on the go! I'd like to mention here that, like all touristy places, Hoi An also has its share of tourist traps, like this river-facing restaurant, Lily's Irish Pub and Sports Bar, that we settled on. The online reviews and the location were excellent, and there was a live singer; essentially, there were enough trappings to ensnare all passersby. But the food was really bad and overpriced. The live music was intended to work as a bait, and it sure did! As you walk along the river, you will see souvenir shops laden with beautiful lanterns for sale, making it hard to resist the temptation to buy one. In fact, a single lantern can start at around 100,000 VND (approximately $4), giving travellers a chance to take home a piece of Hoi An’s charm. Don't forget to negotiate over the price; you might strike a good deal. A typical boat ride on the river averages around 250,000 VND (about $10). Shops around the night market close at 9 pm. The bustling town suddenly falls silent, and people begin walking back to their hotels. So, if you wish to have dinner plans, do so well in time. That's another reason why we had to settle for Lily's Irish Pub and Sports Bar; most other eateries had closed down by the time we were done with our stroll around town. Hoi An is a not-to-miss little wonder in Vietnam, made to cater to all your touristy whims...make sure to set aside some time to explore this town.

If you have 4 or more days in Barcelona, then a day trip to Port Aventura World Parks should feature in your itinerary. The amusement park is 85 km southwest of Barcelona, and the train journey takes about 3 hours. Buses take about 1.5 hours. Let me start by saying that when we planned a visit to Port Aventura, we came across a multitude of conflicting and, in some cases, very strong reviews about Port Aventura on a variety of online forums and its constant comparison with Disneyland and Disney World. We had also been to Disneyland Hong Kong just two years before this trip, so these reviews just ended up confusing us even more. I believe, if you've been to any Disneyland anywhere, then a comparison of any amusement park with the former is obvious due to its very family-friendly park image that we've all grown up with. Now, after having visited both of these parks, I think I can resolve this dilemma by trying to put things in perspective for you. Top 3 reasons why you should visit Park Aventura One, if you're itching for some real heavy-duty excitement, then go for it. The kind of adrenaline-pumping thrill you will get on some crazy rides like Shambhala, Dragon Khan and Hurakan Condor is priceless. Dragon Khan has 8 loops that swing you upside down so many times that I lost count after the second loop. By the end of our day, we'd been twisted, turned, sideways and upside down, made to travel to dizzying heights and then made to fall mercilessly! If this sounds exciting to you, then Park Aventura awaits you. Basically, these rides have really steep falls, and they're certainly not for the timid. But take your pick carefully so that you don't chicken out at the last moment just before the ride. But there are rides for families with young kids, too. The conventional teacup rides and small roller coasters will keep your young ones occupied. Two, The park is divided into 6 different theme areas - China, Polynesia, The Mediterranean, Sesamo Aventura, Mexico and the Far West. Each theme area has its own theme-based roller coasters. Walking up to the ride is part of the entertainment. For example, Shambhala is located in China. The theme is based on the mythical land called Shambhala that is now lost in the Himalayan Region. The way to board the roller coaster takes you through the theme-based area. Hurakan Condor in the theme area of Mexico is one of the most exciting rides in the park. As a sacrifice to God Hurakan, riders are taken to the top of the Aztec Tower. What awaits them there is 100 meters of free fall. Apart from the rides, there are many stunning performances too. So, research their website well, so as to make optimum use of your time in the park. Three, Park Aventura has great dining options that include a variety of cuisines, so you can enjoy a hearty meal on your day out. More on PortAventura World Parks - The park is divided into 3 zones, namely Port Aventura, Caribe Aquatic Park and Ferrari Land. - Research well before you go because going to all 3 zones in one day would not be possible. - Many combinations of tickets should suit your itinerary and your pocket. If you plan to stay there overnight, then you might want to buy tickets for all three since they are very different experiences. - Ferrari Land also offers some very exciting rides like Red Force. But if you are on a day trip, then it is wiser to choose just one of the three zones. In my opinion, clubbing even two of them is going to be very exhausting although there are ticket combos available for two zones together. - Please check their website for more details regarding tickets and packages. Although Park Aventura has not been portrayed as a fun park for kids, there are a lot of fun activities for them too. But those rides are limited. Some rides like Mine Train and Grand Canyon Rapids are okay for kids but they have a minimum height requirement. Please check their website for more details. https://www.portaventuraworld.com/en - If you're travelling with small kids and you're looking for their day out, then I think you can give this park a miss, especially if you have already been to Disneyland. And finally, the inevitable comparison with Disneyland.... Well, Disneyland is an overdose of cuteness. Their theme rides, the absolutely delightful parade, the overall ambience of the park, everything is cute. Their audience is kids along with their families. Port Aventura, on the other hand, is exhilarating. Their rides are cool. Their target audience is teenagers and youngsters raring to go the extra mile to get a shot of adrenaline. No wonder, my teenage boys couldn't stop raving about the thrilling rides they had at the park. To sum up, I would say, Disneyland exudes an old-world charm and warmth that I believe is impossible to replicate. Port Aventura, on the other hand, offers the new-age, high-octane thrill and excitement. So, make your choice! There are many reasons to visit Spain. Click on the links below to find out more about Spain and things to do in Spain https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do Want to see the Spanish capital? Find out about 3 days in Madrid https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/mad-about-madrid-3-days-in-the-spanish-capital Interested in bullfighting? https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Take a trip to Barcelona, Spain's most visited city. Read more about Barcelona https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-barcelona-spain-s-most-visited-city The absolutely not-to-miss city of Seville, Spain https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/there-s-something-special-about-seville-3-days-in-the-lively-cultural-hub-of-spain Watching a Flamenco show in Seville https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco

One can easily spend a week in Barcelona, visiting its museums, art galleries, and beaches and seeing its architecture. You will be spoilt for choice in Barcelona for tourist attractions. A few things to remember if you're planning to visit Barcelona are - One, Barcelona is an expensive city. So planning your activities to optimise your stay is a good idea. - Two, there are all kinds of touristy attractions in Barcelona. Pick your type. If it's a family vacation and you have just 4 days, then my itinerary should cater to your taste. We covered 8 attractions in 3 days. On the last day, we went to Port Aventura for a day trip. - Three, Barcelona is a haven for watersport enthusiasts owing to its warm and calm Mediterranean waters. In case you wish to spend more time indulging in water sports, then you will need an additional day or swap any item from the list below to make time for your water adventure. In case you wish to do so, then it would be a difficult choice to make, but I'd say leave out CosmoCaixa. 3-Day itinerary with 8 Top Attractions in Barcelona Day One - Visit Park Güell - Football Club Barcelona Stadium Camp Nou - Barceloneta Beach Park Güell Most tourists to Barcelona start their trips with the famous church Sagrada Familia. But we were travelling with our two boys. So, the first stop was Park Güell, followed by the Football Club Barcelona Stadium, Camp Nou. Park Güell is a garden complex with a multitude of elements fused to make the work of art that it is today. It is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List of Works of Anton Gaudí. It is named after an entrepreneur, Güell, who commissioned the design of this park to Antoni Gaudí, an architect who is quite a household name in Spain since he also designed the iconic Sagrada Familia. My Tip is The park is an intriguing piece of architecture and is worth visiting. Entrance to the park is free, but you need to pay to see the museum and other buildings. Please check the Park Güell Official Website for more details. You need about 2 hours to see the entire park. Football Club Barcelona Stadium Camp Nou From Park Güell, you'll need about an hour to walk to Camp Nou. If you're a football fan, then this stadium needs no introduction. Our boys were thrilled by this outing to the 'temple' of football, as they call it. My Tip I didn't opt for the tour of the stadium; I have no interest in football. But if you are a keen fan, then you must opt for the Barca Stadium Tour and Camp Nou Experience Tours. These tours last about 1.5 to 2 hours and take you through the stadium, the changing rooms, the stands and into the fields. Our boys opted for the tour while we lounged in the cafeteria. There is a Megastore also for buying souvenirs. Barceloneta Beach It takes about an hour by train to reach Barceloneta Beach from Camp Nou. You can also walk through the city for 1.5 hours approx. to reach the beach if it's not too exhausting for you. My Tip Your trip to Barcelona will be incomplete without a trip to the Barceloneta beach. This is the most happening beach in the city. There are a host of amenities with excellent seafood options and a vibrant nightlife around the beach. Barcelona is a popular destination for a variety of water sports like kayaking, scuba, snorkelling, windsurfing, canoeing and many more on its beaches, and a host of operators are available for organising these tours. As I've mentioned earlier, if you want to do some water sports, then you will need more time for that. We reached the beach in the early evening and spent the rest of the day there. You can opt for the Segway tours, which are a great way to see the entire area. Day Two - Sagrada Familia - CosmoCaixa Barcelona - National Museum of Art of Catalonia and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic Sagrada Familia This church is considered to be a masterpiece of the Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí and is indeed a sight to behold. The impressive spires all around the outer facade lend an otherworldly charm to this timeless structure. The church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site despite the fact that it is unfinished; it has been under construction for over 140 years!! My Tip Entry to the church is paid, but on some special days, visitors are granted free access, for instance, for a mass on Sunday morning. Please check their official website for more details before visiting. https://sagradafamilia.org/en/ There are many types of conducted tours of the cathedral, with and without access to the towers. People with disabilities are allowed free access. The ticket will grant you entry into the basilica, but you will need a separate ticket for entry to the tower. The tours are worth your time; there are infinite intriguing details in the architecture of the church that are fun to know. Photography inside the cathedral is restricted. Try to reach early in the morning to beat the crowds. The entire outing should take about 3 hours. There are cafes on the street all around the church where you can grab a bite, drink coffee and watch the stunning architectural marvel in front of you. CosmoCaixa Barcelona CosmoCaixa is 5 km from Sagrada Familia. You can walk for an hour or take a train that takes about 30 minutes to reach. The science museum is a fun place for kids and adults alike. The museum showcases the workings of the universe and the human brain through interactive exhibits. The museum displays some temporary exhibitions too. Please check their website if you're looking for something specific. My Tip The museum is very informative and interactive. Many touch-and-learn displays are a hit with children. It should be a must-see if you're travelling with kids; otherwise, you can give it a miss. Spend your time on the beach instead. You'll need at least 3 hours to see the complete museum and fully comprehend what you're seeing! National Museum of Art of Catalonia and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic The magnificent structure of the National Museum of Art looks like a palace with its massive dome and sprawling fountains in the front. Noteworthy is the fact that this huge palatial building was constructed as a venue to hold Spanish art exhibitions. You can reach the museum by train or bus, and also by cable car. The museum is 3 km away from Barcelona-Sants, the central train station and takes about 25 minutes to reach. For tourists, the best way is to go by the Montjuic cable car, which will take you directly to the top of the mountain and offer scenic views of the city en route. The famous Magic Fountain of Montjuic is located right in front of the complex. Very close to the museum, on the hilltop, is the Montjuic castle, an old military fortress. You can spend about 1 to 2 hours in the castle, then head back to Mirador del l'Alcalde, a viewing platform that offers beautiful vistas of the city of Barcelona. My Tip You should plan your outing in the evening since the fountains come alive only in the late evening at 8:00 p.m. Hundreds of people gather around the fountains to witness a spectacular show of music, light and water. The show lasts about 20 minutes and is held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The days and timings keep changing, kindly cross-check before leaving. The entire area is so lively and buzzing with activity that one should keep the latter part of the day for this activity only. Day Three - L' Aquarium Barcelona - La Ramblas and the Monument of Christopher Columbus L' Aquarium Barcelona Hailed as the Best Mediterranean-themed aquarium in the world, you shouldn't miss this one! The most interesting part of the museum is the Flooded Forest, which displays the ecosystem of the Amazon through a 1000 sq. meter wide glasshouse. The different ecosystems of the world are displayed region-wise; the exhibit is not just beautiful to look at but also awe-inspiring and very informative. And the sharks, of course! Huge sharks go all around you in the glass aquarium, and I could hear people shrieking with delight. My Tip I would visit this museum even if I were not travelling with kids. To close the trip, there is a cafeteria and a souvenir shop with many cute things to buy. One can easily spend about 3 hours in the aquarium, and it'll be worth your time. La Ramblas and the Monument of Christopher Columbus This was our last evening in the city, since early next morning we had planned to go to La Aventura. And what better way to spend this evening than at the famous La Ramblas, a pedestrian street in Barcelona connecting Placa de Catalunya with the Christopher Columbus Monument at Port Vell? There is nothing spectacular about this street except that spending an evening at La Ramblas will give you an instant insight into the Spanish way of life. It's like the Champs Élysées of Paris. Just like your visit to Paris would be incomplete without visiting it, so it is with La Ramblas! My Tip This street is a must-see attraction in Barcelona!! There are shops, tapas bars, eateries, and the typical Spanish human statues that left me baffled in Madrid, too. One can see locals and tourists jostling with each other to get a piece of this street adventure. It's 1.2 km long, and one can walk down to Port Vell, where the Monument of Christopher Columbus is located. The monument is 60 meters tall and has a lift inside that takes you to the top for stunning views of the city all around. We spent the entire evening around La Ramblas, buying souvenirs and sampling local delicacies. Day Four Port Aventura Port Aventura is a theme park 92 km away from Barcelona. On the 4th and last day of our stay in Barcelona, we went to this adventure park. Port Aventura is best known for its adrenaline-pumping rides like the Shambhala and Dragon Khan. I have written about our experience at Port Aventura in the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-thrilling-day-trip-to-portaventura-world-parks-from-barcelona-spain

The beautiful city of Seville in Spain has much to offer to eager tourists looking for architectural marvels and historical wonders. World-renowned Alcazar Castle complex, breathtaking Plaza de Espana, the largest manmade wooden structure in the world, Metropol Parasol with its awe-inspiring mushroom roof, Seville Cathedral, the cobbled streets in the old Spanish medieval town of Barrio Santa Cruz and much more. After the morning and afternoon well spent roaming around the beautiful city, there can be no better way to close the day than with an evening at a Flamenco dance show. That is exactly what we did, only to realise at the end of the show that our trip to Spain would have been incomplete without a visit to one of the ‘Tablaos’ that hosts the show. Flamenco dance shows are held nightly, with numerous show options to choose from, but with hordes of tourists thronging the city each year, having reservations in advance would be ideal, and tickets can be bought online too. After checking out reviews and comments, we made our reservations at the ' Casa de la Memoria '. The venue is a small, typical Sevillian courtyard house with a very unassuming setting situated in the heart of the Historic Centre of Seville. Inside is a cosy theatre and a small stage. There is a certain warmth about the place that is very welcoming. The seat numbers are not fixed, so reaching a bit early for the show and grabbing your favourite seats is a good idea. As we near show time, people start pouring in. I notice that the stage is very simple; no curtains, no props, just a chair in the corner. We occupy our seats and wait with anticipation for the show to begin. A small stage for a mammoth performance! I’d done some ‘touristy’ reading about Flamenco before leaving. That way one is prepared for what to expect, what to wear and how to go about the evening. Flamenco is a high-energy dance form with both Western and Eastern influences. The dance is mostly solo in a small setting, and the costumes are elegant, though not very elaborate. What can keep you hooked to the performance are the mesmerising footsteps of the dancer and the vivid expressions on her face. Five minutes into the performance, I knew this was going to be special. The show begins with instrumental guitar music to set the tone for the evening. And what a recital! The guitarist is then accompanied by a male Andalusian singer whose full-throated, high-pitched singing along with the rhythmic clapping of his hands in sync with the guitar, sends ripples of joyous applause through the small, select audience. The sound of the guitar, the energetic clapping of hands and the clarity of his voice are magical. But the best is yet to come with the entry of a female dancer on the stage. Her attire is a layered red dress with her hair tied neatly into a bun with minimal make-up. With her entry, four elements are being synchronised simultaneously: guitar notes, claps, the singer’s voice and the dancer’s footsteps. The dancer completely takes over the stage, so to speak. Her movements are so energetic that it feels as if she’ll leap off the small stage. The audience’s eyes move from one performer to the next, lapping it all up as if in a trance. The intensity of the dance goes a notch higher as the dancer swirls her red skirt around to reveal her dancing shoes tapping to the beat of the singer’s claps. The dancer and the singer keep exchanging looks off and on throughout the performance to match the pace and rhythm. The powerfully athletic, deft feminine movements of the dancer are beautiful. It feels as if she is daring the singer to match his wits with her passion. Her dignified poise and dancing prowess are a treat to watch. She swirls all around on the stage, making it impossible for anyone to blink for fear of missing her vigorous moves. There is a certain amount of sensuality in her movements, but what stands out is the sheer energy of her body. It is with this energy and grace that the performance comes to a close. The presentation is enthralling yet intense, entertaining yet focused. To maintain a certain decorum inside the theatre, patrons are not allowed to click pictures during the performance. I am glad for it; otherwise, at times, the essence of an experience is lost in clicking pictures. However, towards the end of the show, an announcement is made allowing for pictures and videos. My camera is out in a jiffy as I try to capture the spirit of the evening with my lens. There are many reasons to visit Spain. Click on the links below to find out more about Spain and things to do in Spain https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do