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A vacation to Spain would be incomplete without a trip to Seville, the capital of the Spanish autonomous community of Andalusia. The city is a surprise package with its narrow, cobbled streets and buildings that are a curious mix of Jewish, Moorish and Christian architecture that weave a web of magic for anyone who sets eyes on them. The entire city can be covered on foot since most of the touristy attractions are within walking distance of each other. Besides, you wouldn't want to miss the hidden architectural gems in every nook and corner of the city. A horse-drawn carriage is also a fun way to go on a 40-minute round trip to the historic area. View of Metrosol Parasol from afar We had 3 days to see this city with many attractions. Ideally, one should spend more time in Seville, savouring the sights and soaking in its wonders, but for most of us, touristy places have to be covered in tightly packed itineraries. So, I have picked the 10 Must-See Attractions in Seville that can be fitted into a 3-day itinerary. I have divided them into day-by-day itineraries as we saw them, but you can re-arrange the order depending on the amount of time you spend seeing each attraction. Most of these attractions are located in the Old Town within walking distance of each other. Day One 1. Royal Alcazar of Seville, the royal palace of Seville 2. Seville Cathedral and La Giralda 3. Archivo General de Indias 4. Plaza de Espana, the stunning Spanish Square and Maria Luisa Park Day Two 5. Metropol Parasol 6. Torre del Oro 7. Iglesia del Salvador, the Savior Church 8. Plaza Nueva and Ayuntamiento, Seville City Hall Day Three 9. Triana Neighbourhood and the Guadalquivir River 10. Watch a Flamenco show The Royal Alcazar You can start your Seville outing with a visit to the Historic Centre of Seville in the Old Town, one of the largest historic districts in Europe. Spread over 4 km, it houses the three World-famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites namely Royal Alcazar of Seville, Seville Cathedral and La Giralda, and the Archivo General de Indias. The Royal Alcazar is an absolute must-see attraction. In Spain, Alcazar is a name given to any palace or fortress that belongs to the time of the Moorish invasions. Keep aside at least 2 to 2.5 hours to see this UNESCO-listed site and a masterpiece of Moorish architecture*. The Palace, with its beautiful rooms, especially the Hall of the Kings, with its opulent interiors, offers an interesting insight into the indulgent lifestyle of the royalty. You should opt for a guided tour even if you're not a big history buff to make the whole experience of seeing the palace enjoyable. My Tip To visit the Real Alcazar, buy online tickets beforehand. There are massive queues lined up for entry into the palace. Try to reach at 9:30 when the palace opens for tourists. Please check their website to check for Opening hours before planning a visit. Also, on some days, entry to the palace is free. https://www.alcazarsevilla.org/ Please do remember to start your Alcazar tour from the past, that is, from the times of the Moors, into the new gardens and not the other way around. Otherwise, the palace can be a bit confusing, especially for tourists like us who have little knowledge of Spanish history. In case you've bought combined tickets for the Alcazar and the Seville Cathedral, then remember there is a dress code for entering the cathedral. Exposed shoulders and legs are not allowed. Seville Cathedral and La Giralda After spending the first half of Day One in The Royal Alcazar, we headed to the Seville Cathedral. The cathedral is about half a kilometre away from the palace in the historic town. Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and it is home to a very impressive collection of artworks in Spain. You will need at least an hour or a little more to walk through the cathedral. Things to see in the cathedral are the Tomb of Christopher Columbus, the Royal Chapel and the Treasure Room. La Giralda, the 104-meter-high tower, is the minaret of the cathedral visible from a long way off. You can walk up to the tower which does not have a staircase but a slope to walk on. This was done to ride up the tower on horseback. I believe one gets nice views of the city all around, but we did not venture into the tower. We were exhausted from our visit to the palace in the first half of the day. My Tip I would say from experience that although visiting Real Alcazar and the Cathedral on the same day sounds like the sensible thing to do since they are close by, you should plan to do it on two separate days. The idea is to beat the crowds by starting on these two outings first thing in the morning. Plus, there is so much walking involved that it's not enjoyable anymore after a while if you do them together. Archivo General de Indias This building lies very close to the Cathedral. Honestly, it was just rows and columns of books, beautiful marble staircases and some stunning halls. It's a beautiful structure, so as a tourist just taking pictures would suffice. You go inside only if you're seriously into Spanish history. Entry is free. My Tip I mean no offence, but this place was quite boring. We stepped inside and stepped right back out to make better utilisation of our limited time in Seville. Plaza de Espana This awe-inspiring semi-circular plaza was built in the year 1929 as part of the Ibero-American Exposition. The plaza was showcased as a centrepiece of this large-scale international fair to display the industrial and cultural achievements of Spain. These days, the plaza has been adapted to house various government agencies. Everything about Plaza de España spells grandeur. The structure brings together the Renaissance and Moorish Revival Architecture. The entire outer facade has ceramic tiles in bright colours that lend a magnetic appeal to this structure. The plaza is a delight to watch with its colourful, vibrant facade, colonnades and a huge fountain in the centre. There are footbridges and canals, a moat surrounding the main structure, and the entire building has 48 alcoves, each of which represents a Spanish province. Tourists can hire rowing boats and sail around in the moat. Entry to the plaza is free. The plaza is situated in Maria Luisa Park, spread over a sprawling 50,000 square feet. The park is as delightful as the plaza. There are small ponds, palm trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. My Tip In  the late afternoon, we hired a horse carriage from the Old Town for a round trip around the old city, including a stop at the spectacular Plaza de Espana. If you want to walk, it takes less than 20 minutes on foot from the Seville Cathedral. Entry into the plaza is free. The ride was not too expensive, it was fun and informative. Our carriage driver, who also served as a tour guide, provided us with interesting insights into the plaza's history. Day Two Metropol Parasol Winding our way through the narrow streets of Seville, we suddenly came face to face with this mammoth structure right in front of us that claims to be the largest wooden structure in the world. It is located in the Plaza de la Encarnación in the Old Quarter of Seville. While reading about parasols, I discovered that they were first made in Egypt to provide sunshades to royals and nobles. In Seville, the parasol offers some great photo opportunities. It has a look-out deck or the viewpoint on the top that can be reached via an elevator to get beautiful views of the city. My Tip The Parasol is unique from whichever angle you see it. The views from the plaza level are amazing and you can see the entire structure and its formation. If you want to save time, you can avoid going to the top. Although, you do get nice views from the top but nothing spectacular. Torre del Oro About a 20-minute walk away from Metropol Parasol is Torre del Oro. The tower was constructed as a watchtower along a canal close to the river Guadalquivir. Now, there is a Naval Museum on the first floor of the tower. The exhibits are nicely displayed with interesting information. You can also climb up the 200-odd wooden steps to reach the top of the tower to get beautiful vistas of the city. My Tip If you've seen the city views from the top of the Parasol or La Giralda, then skip this one. I always reiterate the point that while travelling, one needs to conserve one's energy, especially in a place as hot as Seville. Iglesia del Salvador, the Saviour Church This beautiful Roman Catholic church with its baroque architecture is surely worth a visit. It's painted bright pink on the outside, so you cannot miss it. Remember, your ticket to the Seville Cathedral is valid in this church as well, so just keep it secure. You can use this ticket on any day, as we used it the next day. The interiors of the church are rich with exquisite craftsmanship and design. Tall windows with stained glass and a very colourful altar endow the church with a lot of grandeur. We spent about an hour inside before heading to our next stop. My Tip This small church is beautiful from the inside. Also, it will give you a chance to take a refreshing break from the summer sun. Plaza Nueva and Ayuntamiento, Seville City Hall Very close to Iglesia del Salvador is Ayuntamiento, Seville City Hall, which faces the Plaza Nueva. We had seen this square the previous day while walking around it, but today we decided to spend some time around it. The impressive Town Hall building has the faces of some important historical figures engraved on its walls if you look closely. A grand statue of King Fernando III is situated right in the centre of the plaza. There are artisan shops and tapas bars everywhere. My Tip This area comes alive in the evening. We decided to spend the remaining part of the day here since the next evening we were planning to watch a Flamenco show. So, this was, in a way, our last evening in Seville. And we were happy we did so. There were street singers, tourists and locals everywhere, eating and making merry. Day Three Triana Neighbourhood and the Guadalquivir River After 2 days of intense sightseeing of monuments, we wanted to get a feel of the city on our last day. We wandered around from the Old Town, walked through Santa Cruz and the Jewish Quarter with its narrow lanes and headed to the Puente de San Telmo bridge across the Guadalquivir River. It's about 30 minutes of leisurely walking. One can get beautiful views of the Triana Neighbourhood from here. We walked back, seeing the beautiful sights of the Old Town again. My Tip Puente de San Telmo is a functional bridge; nothing very romantic about it. But the views from the bridge are nice! Besides, it's a good way to see the entire city. Flamenco In the evening, we went to see the stupendous Flamenco Show at the 'Casa de la Memoria'. Read on to learn more about our Flamenco experience on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco While in Seville, you can catch the bullfight at Plaza de Toros, the largest bullfighting arena in Spain. We skipped it since we had already seen this gory spectacle in Madrid. And believe me, watching it once in a lifetime is enough! You can read about our Bullfighting experience by clicking the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Our last day in Seville was also our last day in Spain. We missed watching the mystifying Alhambra Palace in Granada, although Granada is just about 3 hours by road from Seville. I guess that calls for another trip to this beautiful country! And there is more than one reason to go back to Spain. Read more about our Spain vacation by clicking on the link below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-simple-reasons-to-visit-spain-and-some-tips-if-you-do

Ninh Binh, the gloriously scenic province in Northern Vietnam, will beguile you with its beauty of limestone karsts* as they seem to grow out of a verdant green landscape, earning this place the name 'Halong Bay on Land'. 5 handy tips for your visit to Ninh Binh The city closest to Ninh Binh is Hanoi, about 2 hours by road. It is very well connected by both train and road from all major cities in Vietnam. The best time to visit this region is between November and April, when the weather is dry. Remember, it can be cold during the winter months, so be sure to carry warm clothing. Numerous options for day trips from Hanoi are readily available on popular travel platforms such as Klook.com or GetYourGuide.com . Most popular day tours to Ninh Binh will take you to these three must-see attractions Boat ride on the River Trang An The ancient capital city of Hoa Lu Lying Dragon Mountain If you have an extra day to spare, you must plan to stay overnight. There is a lot of stunning scenery to explore. With more time, you could add a visit to Tam Cot, literally translating into Three Caves, to your itinerary with a boat ride on the River Ngo Dong. Another beautiful attraction is the Bich Dong Pagoda. Entry to the pagoda is free, and you can go through a system of caves to climb the steep steps to get scenic views of the landscape around. The easiest and cheapest way to explore this region is on a bike. Most day trips also include a short biking tour in their itinerary to give tourists a feel of the winding, hilly roads. Boat ride on the River Trang An A visit to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will leave you nothing short of spellbound. A boat ride on the Trang An River will take you through an amazing system of caves, temples and pagodas. Rowers at the boarding point for the boat ride on Trang An River Beautiful pagoda amid the boat route Lanterns add to the mysticism and romance of this beautiful natural cave A few things to know about your Trang An boat ride   There are 3 routes that you can pick from for your boat ride, depending on your preference Route 1 - You get to see temples and learn about their history Route 2 - For seeing stunning natural cave formations and King Kong Island, the shooting location of the film Skull Island. Route 3 - You'll see the Dot Cave, the longest cave (1000m long) on this river cruise. All three of these routes take about 3 hours each and cost 150,000 VND per person. Most of the boats are operated by women rowers, and it is customary to pay a small tip at the end of the boat ride. 30,000 VND converts to about 1.00 USD. I saw many tourists paying one to two dollars as a tip. The point from where you take the boats is well developed, there are clean, free toilets and nice eating joints with lots of open areas to sit and enjoy scenic views of the river. We opted for Route 2; in fact, we weren't given much of a choice since we had opted for a conducted tour from Hanoi, and this boat ride was a part of the tour. The boat ride lasted about 2.5 hours, and we went through gloriously scenic caves, 3 in all, with stunning limestone formations and karsts. The caves are lit with lanterns, adding to the allure of their natural beauty. The ancient capital city of Hoa Lu After an exhilarating boat ride on the River Trang An in the morning, the tour bus drove us to the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu. Most tour operators offer tourists a bike ride to the gates of the ancient city, which can be a lot of fun. Hoa Lu was the capital of the first feudal monarchy system in Vietnam in the 10th century under the Dinh Dynasty. It is surrounded by the River Sao Khe, which connected the city to the sea via a system of other rivers, making it a trade route in the 10th century. My Tips about your visit to the temple at Hoa Lu This is an important historic site for Vietnamese people, but honestly, it's a little underwhelming after the enthralling morning boat ride. The temple is nice, there is a small museum too, but nothing special about it. We saw it as part of our package, but going specifically to watch the ancient town is not worth the effort. Entry to the monument is free. Very close to the temple is a viewpoint with about 150 steps to the top. You could plan to do that, but remember not to combine it with the hike to the Lying Dragon Mountain on the same day, which was our next stop on the tour, so we gave this viewpoint a miss. Interestingly, you will see a buffalo tied to a staff on the side en route to the temple. We learnt from our guide that buffalo was considered to be a sign of prosperity and was often gifted by the man to his fiancée on their engagement. I couldn't resist the urge to click a picture, however embarrassing it might appear to me in hindsight...me on a buffalo!! Lying Dragon Mountain A hike up to the Lying Dragon Mountain can easily be rated as a top attraction on your day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi. The hike is no mean feat; there are 495 rickety stone steps to the top, but once you reach the vantage point mid-way, splendid 360-degree panoramic views of the Tam Coc Valley, limestone karsts jutting into the sky all around, and the serpentine Ngo Dong River flowing through the valley will start to unfold in front of your eyes. My Tips about your hike to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain There are 495 steps to the top, but each large stone step is easily equivalent to two regular steps, quite steep so we're talking about 1000 steps. Phew!! The route is not one-way, so you can decide to turn around whenever you wish to. There are very few signs along the way, so keep following the crowd. You will reach a fork somewhere around midway, where you should turn left for the Dragon Mountain. The right trail will lead you to the viewpoint on the other side of the mountain, facing the Dragon Mountain. Wear good, sturdy shoes since the trek is uneven and rocky. And must carry water. The Viewpoint opposite the Dragon Mountain Like a Winner!! At the top of the Dragon Mountain karsts* - When limestone is eroded by water, it leads to the formation of ridges, sinkholes and fissures, caves and springs; this landscape is collectively called karst.

A vacation to Spain can throw open a plethora of must-do-activities for you, visiting iconic monuments like Alhambra and the famous Roman Catholic Church The La Sagrada Familia, experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the country, seeing the sun-kissed beaches, tasting the divine ‘Sangria’, making a trip to the football hubs of Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, spending one full day at the crazily adventurous La Aventura amusement park, watching a show of the mesmerizing Flamenco dance and last but not the least going to the bullring in Madrid. While planning our vacation to Spain, this last bit about the bullfight was just one of the many attractions featured in our itinerary. I was really excited about watching the flamenco show in Seville, while my boys had set their hearts on going to the bullfight in Madrid. We had designated a half day for this ‘sightseeing’ and made an online reservation well in advance. There are very few countries in the world that permit bullfighting, and Spain is one of the frontrunners in this sport. There was no way that we would miss such an outing, especially with our two grown-up boys around who were desperate to see some real gore-and-blood sport. You know how boys are! Entrance to the Bullfight Arena, Madrid - Plaza de Toros The venue for bullfighting is the bullring in Madrid, Plaza de Toros de Las Ventas, or ‘Las Ventas’ as it is popularly known. We reached a bit early and were quite surprised to see hordes of people already flocking near the gate of the arena, waiting to enter. There were hardly any tourists to be seen; one can always make out tourists from the local people by the lost look of anticipation on the former’s faces. Visitors looked like regulars to the arena since none of them was taking any pictures or buying souvenirs. Finally, the gates opened, and we were thrilled to get seats with a front view of the entrance where all the action was going to take place. The huge arena started to fill up with thousands of people pouring in. The bullring in Madrid has a seating capacity of 25,000 people, and in no time we were scrambling for our seats. The arena was full to the brim in no time... The interesting part is that all kinds of people could be seen. We had a young Spaniard sitting on our right who looked like some school teacher to me, calm demeanour, and casually sipping on his drink. An elderly couple, sounding more like Brits on a tour of Spain, was also waiting for the show to begin. In the front row was a group of middle-aged men who appeared to have come straight out of some cowboy movie of the ’70s, with all of them donning hats, smoking cigars and wearing tight-waisted jackets. The stage is now set for the action to unfold. The performance begins with an ‘entourage’ entering the arena, comprising horsemen, a Matador conspicuously attired and holding a magenta and gold cape, who appears to be the group leader. They go around the arena in a circle as if to acknowledge the guests or inspect the arena. The colourful 'Entourage' entering the arena, amidst cheers from the crowd! I get busy clicking pictures and making videos of the act. We are so excited to be a part of this traditional ritual of Spain. There is a sound of the bugle and there we have a bull running into the ring. The matador is perhaps trying to gauge the ferocity of the bull, he waves the cape towards him and runs around to create some drama! The bull charging at the cape swung by the matador The colourful, elaborate costumes, the energy and agility of the matador, combined with his prowess in handling the bull and his effortless yet careful demeanour on the ground, is enthralling. There is a lot of hooting and cheering all around. No wonder these matadors are so popular in this part of the world. They are nothing short of movie stars and enjoy a huge fan following. It appears as if there is a sudden rush of adrenaline in the arena. We also cheer on and wait in anticipation for what comes next. In a split second, the matador turns away, and the man on horseback or ‘Picador’ comes up from behind the bull and stabs a barbed stick viciously in the neck of the bull. The sudden spurt of blood from the fresh wound on the neck of the bull is unnerving and my camera falls from my hands into my lap. The bull weakened by the constant stabbing looks around haplessly for help that doesn't seem to come! There are 3 banderilleros on the ground and each one tries to stab the bull with their barbed sticks on its shoulder. They are trying to agitate the bull and also weaken it. The sight is so ghastly that I’ve lost my interest already, just 15 minutes into the show. The man on horseback stabs again with his lance and injures the bull once again. Call it sheer ignorance, but nothing could’ve prepared me for such violence. In the meantime, the matador is trying to put on a display for the cheering crowds. I can’t deny that he was incredibly graceful with his movements and manoeuvres with the cape. He goes around the bull and tries to stab it with his banderilla. The movements are fake and are done only to create a theatrical effect, but the blood and the wounds on the bull’s back are real, I tell myself. I brace myself to see what’s more to come. The bull is getting angrier by the moment, and the crowd is going into a frenzy, shouting slogans like ‘mata…lo..mata lo’, meaning kill it in Spanish, as we later learnt. The cow-boy look-alikes sitting in our front row are in their full element. They are shouting and jeering. I look at the teacher-like guy sitting next to us, who looked so quiet earlier and now looks possessed by something. He’s shouting at the top of his voice. As if in response to these demands by the crowd, the matador suddenly turns and, with a sharp twist of the sword, pierces the bull’s heart and kills it. There is an uproar of approval in the arena all around. The scene is so gory that I cringe and look away. When I look up, I’m shocked to see people standing and cheering in the stands and waving white handkerchiefs in appreciation of the matador’s feat. Later, we learnt that the white handkerchief is waved to urge the presiding chief to award the matador with an ear of the dead bull as a souvenir. We all look at each other, and my sons, who were so eager to come for this spectacle look equally perturbed. The first thought that crosses my mind when looking at them is ‘God, I’m really grateful’. Seeing my children behave like maniacs in the face of such violence, along with the other thousands of people, would’ve broken my heart. My younger son looks at me, imploring me to leave. As we nudge each other to get up, thinking that this is the end of that day’s event, we discover that there’s more to come. Another bull enters the arena, and the drill is repeated all over again. Then yet again and again and again. This drill is repeated five times over, five bulls are killed, and the ‘revelry’ in the ring is like nothing I have ever seen before. We just want to get out of this madness, but there are people everywhere with not an inch of space to move. So, we wait for this ‘sporty’ ordeal to finally get over. Did we like the sport? Was it a sport at all? Five armed men on foot and horseback tried to overpower a bull not just by force but by deception. The spurt of blood oozing out of the necks of those innocent animals who can feel the pain but have no words to express it. If we believe that animals too have souls and that they can relate to love and emotions as well, then I’m sure the poor hapless bull could very well relate to the 25,000-odd people jeering at it and rejoicing in its death. Can anything be more inhuman than this? 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? Click on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/mad-about-madrid-3-days-in-the-spanish-capital 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 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 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

The Spanish capital is an exciting city from the word go! We had all of 72 hours at our disposal in Madrid, and there was a lot of ground to cover. There were 10 attractions in all that we wanted to see. I've divided these attractions into a 3-day itinerary. The Top 10 not-to-miss attractions are 1. Palacio Real or the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Changing of the Guard 2. El Retiro Park 3. Paseo del Prado 4. Plaza Mayor 5. Puerta del Sol 6. Mercado San Miguel 7. Puerta del Alcala 8. Plaza de Cibeles 9. Monumento A Los Refugiados 10. Parterre del Retiro Day 1 in Madrid Royal Palace of Madrid We started with the Royal Palace of Madrid, or the 'Palacio Real' as it's called, the stunning white square building made in Baroque style architecture around a large courtyard. Baroque architecture is synonymous with opulent, theatrical-style buildings with intricate stonework. The Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest in Europe based on its floor size, spread over an area of about 1450000 square feet. The palace is open all days of the week; summer and winter timings are different. Entry to the palace is not free; your ticket will depend on whether you do a self-guided tour or a conducted tour. My Tip This is one of the largest palaces in the world with over 3000 rooms! If you decide to explore the interior of the palace, then be prepared to walk a lot and designate at least 2 to 3 hours to see the palace. We did not have the time to explore it from the inside. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the palace except in some designated areas. My word of advice is that if you've seen other famous palaces around the world, like the Palace of Versailles or royal palaces in Copenhagen or Sweden, or if you're planning to see the Real Alcazar in Seville, then you can miss this one. The ornate exteriors of the palace are enough to make your jaw drop! There is a Changing of the Guard daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and Saturdays unless otherwise notified. The ceremony is always fun to watch as the crowds queue up well before time to grab a good viewing spot to watch the event. El Retiro Park It's a 30-minute walk from the Royal Palace to the park through the beautiful city of Madrid. The landscaped park in the centre of the city is massive. Entry to the park is free. It has around 15000 trees, statues of Spanish royalty, a lake, a glass building called the Crystal Palace and a Rose Garden. One can easily spend 2 to 3 hours in the park, rowing on the lake and seeing the beautiful city go by from the quiet of the park. My Tip We spent the 2nd half of the day at El Retiro Park. It was very serene. Must-do! Paseo del Prado Very close to El Retiro Park, just about a 6 to 7-minute walk, is the famous historical boulevard Paseo del Prado. The boulevard is considered to be an oasis in the midst of the city with very old trees. The entire area from Paseo del Prado to El Retiro Park and some adjoining areas has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site called the Landscape of Light. This houses some of Spain's most prominent institutions, and walking along this green boulevard is a delightful experience. The three famous museums of Madrid, Museo del Prado, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museo Nacional are also located here, and the area is called the Golden Triangle of Art in Madrid. It's a good idea to take a conducted tour of the historical gardens, which will give you some very interesting insights into the history of these gardens and why they were developed. Many tour options are available, including walking tours, tuk-tuk tours, and electric bike tours, among others. Please check their website for more details. My Tip If you wish to explore the museums, then the conducted tours take about 7 hours to cover all three museums. We were travelling with our 2 boys, visiting a museum was last on their wish list. But this certainly is doable in a 3-day itinerary since you have the entire second half of the day available. Day 2 in Madrid Plaza Mayor In the morning, we decided to spend some time at the Plaza Mayor. Our apartment building, aptly called 'Plaza Mayor Apartment', was situated right on the famous plaza. The statue of Philip III at Plaza Mayor My Tip The plaza is always bustling with crowds, and this is the best place to begin your walk across the beautiful Central Square of Madrid. There are hordes of tourists everywhere and some curiously dressed human statues and street performers. There are small eateries or Tapas, as they're called, all around where you can grab a bite, all the while soaking in the magic of Madrid. At the end of the square, there is a Plaza Mayor Tourist Information Center for your assistance. Just a 5-minute walk away is the Puerta del Sol. Puerta del Sol Puerta del Sol is a public square in Madrid that has the famous Kilometer Zero, a small stone slab that marks the geographical centre of Madrid and even Spain. It also has the statue of the bear and the strawberry tree representing the Madrid coat of arms. My Tip It is the most famous point for photo ops. You will find crowds thronging in this area at any time of the day. Plaza de Toros The second half of the day was assigned to go to Plaza de Toros, the bullfight arena in Madrid. The place was swarming with people, surprisingly most of them looked like locals, I barely saw any tourists there. One can always spot tourists by the look of inquisitiveness around them. A lot can be said about this place and the event that takes place here, the bullfight. I have written about this in a separate blog. Not everyone has the stomach to watch the Bullfight with all its blood and gore! Read on for our bullfight experience in the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal Day 3 in Madrid This was our last day in Madrid, and we wanted to explore this beautiful city on foot. Mercado San Miguel We decided to start our day with a trip to the food market very close to Plaza Mayor. We wanted to sample some delicacies at this world-renowned gourmet one-stop shop for Spanish cuisine. The impressive outer structure is a major tourist attraction, inside there are fruit and vegetable stands alongside the local Tapas. We went early in the morning to beat the crowds, the market gets extremely crowded during the day and even more in the evening. Also, we wanted to first explore the stalls because we were not sure what to eat. After much deliberation, we tried seafood Paella, some exotic ham and cheese, fresh fruits, fried anchovies and the amazing red wine Sangria! Puerta del Alcala This beautiful monument is about a 30-minute walk from Mercado San Miguel. The monument is beautiful with its intricate carvings and impressive archways. We spent about 30 minutes around the monument before heading to the next attraction. Plaza de Cibeles Photo courtesy - " Plaza de Cibeles y Oficina de Correos, Madrid " by MrT HK is licensed under CC BY 2.0 . From Puerta del Alcala, we walked another 4 minutes to Plaza de Cibeles, a plaza square with the absolutely riveting structure of Cybele Palace that now serves as the city hall. The area around the plaza is very crowded at all times. The pictures I took did not do justice to the beauty of this structure. So, I took this photo from a photo gallery. Don't miss the statue of Goddess Cybele on a chariot in front of the plaza. Monumento A Los Refugiados Just 3 to 4 minutes away from Plaza de Cibeles, this monument is dedicated to refugees and attempts to depict their plight. It's a strange-looking piece of art showing some men sitting on the top of a wall trying to run away or sneak in. Honestly, I couldn't make much of it, although it's made quite artistically. Parterre del Retiro This beautiful French-style garden lies within the Retiro Park on the west side. Parterre del Retiro, with its ornamentally landscaped greens, is absolutely delightful, and the serenity of the park amid a bustling city is worth the effort of walking to it. By the end of this walking tour, we had experienced Madrid and its people and seen its many stunning architectural marvels alongside vast verdant greens right in the heart of the city. A lot of day trips can be taken from Madrid. If you have an extra day, then the medieval city of Toledo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just 30 minutes away. It's famous for its monuments that display a deep influence of Jewish, Christian and Arab architecture. El Escorial, the historic residence of the King of Spain, is located in the town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, 45 km away from Madrid. This is a famous landmark and attracts a lot of crowds. Although I think fitting in these 2 places would be impossible in a 3-day trip. It was the last evening of our trip to Madrid. We decided to spend the evening at Plaza Mayor. One can't have enough of the vibe of this charming Spanish District. Early the next morning, we boarded the train to Barcelona for our next Spanish adventure! 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 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 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 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

Why visit Spain? Spain has a whopping 45 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, making it the third country in the world with so many heritage sites! So, while planning your Spain vacation, remember to look them up. Let me enumerate 10 solid reasons for anyone with a bent for travel to visit Spain... 1. Spain is warm, vibrant and lively The country has a rustic charm that is different from other European countries. The typical Spanish vibe is hard to miss and even harder to describe! 2. Spaniards are warm, relaxed people On our first day in Madrid, which was a working day, I didn't see people hustling to work. Everyone seemed to be a bit laid back and walking merrily to work or wherever they were headed. I found this very different from most cosmopolitan cities, where morning rush hour can be maddening with people practically stomping on each other to get to work on time. They are friendly towards tourists too, and most can speak basic English. If they can't, they still attempt to help you. Our landlady in Madrid could not speak English, so she went to great lengths to ensure that we understood what she was trying to convey via a Translator App on her phone. She could not use the App properly. My son helped her with the App, and she, in turn, helped us with the instructions in English. 3. Amazing architecture Spain was one of the most powerful empires till the 18th century. The entire country has some interesting architecture that is an amalgamation of many historical periods, combined with modern contemporary structures. Just travelling around the country, one can see a mix of Gothic-style*, Renaissance and modern structures, all co-existing together beautifully. How can one forget the awe-inspiring Real Alcazar and Alhambra? Even in cities, alongside modern structures, there are a lot of colonial homes. It can be an interesting stay if you plan to live in a rented colonial home. All such houses have windows opening into a central courtyard. One can easily peep into the house on the opposite side. Although that should not be your reason to travel to Spain! Our house in Seville, with the window opening into the courtyard 4. Spain offers some seriously finger-licking food There are Tapas Bars everywhere; these bars serve small portions of food as a snack with a drink. The best thing about Tapas is that you get to taste a large variety of dishes owing to the small portion size. Spaniards 'Tapear', which means they do tapas bar-hopping and try various dishes. This is so integral to the culture of Spain. And Spaniards love their eating time; they are boisterous around food. And Spanish cuisine grows on you. It's made with simple ingredients with very bold flavours. Much like my native Indian cuisine. 5. Spaniards are not just warm, they're entertaining too! Throughout the country, especially in Madrid, roads are full of street performers and a whole lot of human statues dressed as interesting characters to get tips from local passersby. I have seen this in many places, but not as much as here in Spain. They do all sorts of gravity-defying stunts that are a delight to watch. A walk around the city can be as entertaining as sightseeing. 6. The capital of Spain, Madrid, is a traveller's delight Paseo del Prado Boulevard and El Retiro Park are beautiful green spaces in the heart of a very modern metropolis. The entire area was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021 and is called The Landscape of Light. El Rastro, one of the world's oldest flea markets, is a shopper's paradise. It has wares ranging from clothes, leather goods, and books to memorabilia and so much more. Hordes of locals and tourists throng the market that is set up every Sunday and on public holidays. If you like exploring artworks and visiting museums, then Madrid has the Golden Triangle, comprising 3 main museums: the Prado, Thyssen-Bornemisza, and Reina Sofía. Want to visit Madrid? Learn more by clicking on the link below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/mad-about-madrid-3-days-in-the-spanish-capital 7. Not to forget Barcelona with its beaches and the famous football clubs, and of course, Sagrada Familia It takes 2 hours and 45 minutes to travel from Madrid by train. The city has lots to offer tourists through architecture, scenic locales, the famous football club FCB, beaches and the Sagrada Familia. If you have an extra day or two, then PortAventura World Parks, the amusement park 85 km away from Barcelona, offers unparalleled adventure and amusement. 8. And while in Spain, how can you miss out on Seville, the capital of the Spanish Autonomous Community of Andalusia? I have been to over 100 cities worldwide, but Seville remains my all-time favourite. Its cobbled streets and the famous Real Alcazar, which is steeped in history and preserved in sync with some awe-inspiring modern structures like the Metropol Parasol, are stunning. And not to forget the riveting Plaza de España. There is a historical anecdote at every nook and corner of this picturesque city. Remember, the beautiful Alhambra Palace in Granada is just a 3-hour drive from Seville. So, if you have time, then this palace is not to miss. 9. Spain is synonymous with Flamenco, the foot-tapping dance recital performances at Tablao A flamenco performance is mesmerising, to say the least. While in Spain, this is one attraction that you should not miss. Flamenco shows are held in many cities across Spain. Watching a Flamenco show in Seville was the highlight of our trip to Spain. Read more about Flamenco in the link below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/spain-seville-and-flamenco 10. And lastly, Spain has the infamous bullfight arenas Not everyone has the stomach to watch the Bullfight! But if you have the guts to see this gory spectacle, then Madrid is the place for it! The most popular one is in Madrid, called Las Ventas. Apart from that, it is held in Tordesillas, Ronda and Seville. In some places, it has been banned or is in the process of being toned down to make it less gory. Read on for our bullfight experience in the link below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/bullfighting-in-madrid-gut-wrenching-sport-or-sporty-ordeal I will give you the 5 important tips for your Spain vacation... 1. If you want to start your vacation in the capital of Madrid, then the best time to visit this landlocked city is in spring and fall. Winters and summers can be extreme for outdoor activities. Spain is warmer than the rest of Europe, but even if you're going in summer, carry some very light woollens. It can get a bit windy and cold at night, especially in Madrid. We went to Spain in May, which is considered very pleasant, but we had to buy light sweaters the day we landed in Madrid. 2. Beware of pickpockets, especially in tourist-heavy areas in Madrid and Barcelona. More so, when travelling in metros and buses. Pickpockets normally travel in gangs on crowded trains and try to surround you from all sides, creating some confusion before flicking your wallet. We had a rough encounter in Barcelona on the train. A woman passenger, standing right next to my husband, would deliberately push herself forward toward him every time the train jolted to start or stop. We were saved by the timely intervention of a local traveller who signalled to us to watch out for this woman. When she realised that we knew, she quickly got off the train; otherwise, my husband would have lost his wallet. 3. Despite the menace of pickpockets, you should still carry some cash, especially if you're planning to go outside of main urban touristy areas or anywhere off the beaten track to make payments at small restaurants and kiosks. 4. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in Spain. But in Barcelona, owing to its coastal location, the water tasted really odd. It did not make us ill, but we decided to rely on bottled water for the remaining days. 5. Barcelona is expensive compared to other Spanish cities, so plan your vacation judiciously. 3 days would be ideal for exploring the city. You might have to add an extra day if you want to explore its many water sports in the calm Mediterranean waters. Also, as I mentioned earlier, if you want to go to Port Aventura, then an extra day would be needed. Only about 3 hours away from Seville is the city of Granada, known for the beautiful Alhambra Palace. It would be a shame to miss seeing this stunning palace and fortress. So, you should plan a day trip from Seville to visit Granada. So, gear up and plan an enthralling vacation to Spain! There are many reasons to visit Spain. Click on the links below to find out more about Spain and things to do in Spain 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 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 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 * Gothic architecture is characterised by grandeur in the form of tall structures with flying buttresses and pointed arches. The ceilings are decorated with ornate designs.

It's a good idea to keep one day of your entire trip to Switzerland to see the beautiful city of Bern, the capital city. Why Bern? Most travel itineraries to Switzerland centre around nature and landscapes, high mountain peaks and hikes, scenic train rides, boat cruises on lakes and more. So, a visit to the old town of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, can add another interesting dimension to your trip. It's a fun outing for kids, too, since the symbol of Bern is the Bear, and there is a small bear park right in the heart of the city centre. Lucerne to Bern... It takes about 1.5 hours to reach Bern from Lucerne. We planned it as a half-day trip after visiting the Transport Museum in Lucerne. The Aare River runs through the city, and you can walk along the river. But with kids, this was tough, so we boarded a tram. Trams connect one end of the city to the other. If you have a Swiss Travel Pass, then this travel is included in the ticket. Trams go over bridges, around scenic locales of the Aare River and to the Old Town too. Things to do in Bern in one day Zytglogge Clock Tower The clock tower stands tall at 54 meters right in the centre of the Old Town. There are hordes of tourists thronging the area to hear the clock tower give its signature strike of the hour. Kids and adults alike stand enraptured by this performance. There was a concert going on when we were visiting, lending a very lively air to the place. There is a conducted tour inside the clock tower that involves climbing 130 steps. We gave that a miss. But if you can, then I believe the steps take you to a high terrace from where one can see as far as the peaks of the Bernese Oberland on a clear day. Bear Pit and Bear Park This is one of the most unusual attractions that I've ever come across in any city. A bear pit with huge bears roaming around right in the heart of a bustling city. If you're travelling with kids, then do not let them miss out on this fun thing. One can see bears from over a secure fence. It's within walking distance of the Old Town. There is a bear park also nearby. Entry is free. There is a sculpture of a bear walking the tightrope in front of the entrance to the park, which is really beautiful. Walk along the River Aare and Old Town The old town offers ample walking arcades. I believe that Bern has the longest covered shopping promenade in all of Europe. Along the river, you will also find rows of quaint houses with red roofs, lending a very medieval character to the city. The beautiful olive green and gold coloured Parliament Building is also located in the Old Town. To sum up, a day trip to Bern will give you a rare insight into the culture of Switzerland and its medieval past. Your kids will be thrilled with the Clock Tower and the Bear Pit. So, well worth a visit! Travelling with kids to Switzerland? For more fun tips and things to remember, click on the links below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/planning-a-family-vacation-with-kids-to-europe-go-switzerland 1. Day trip to Mount Pilatus https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-pilatus 2. Tobogganing at Mt. Pilatus https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/tobogganing-at-mt-pilatus-switzerland-the-world-s-longest-summer-toboggan-run 3. Day trip to Brienz and Interlaken https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-brienz-and-interlaken 4. Day trip to Jungfraujoch https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-jungfraujoch 5. Day trip to Titlis https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-titlis 6. Day trip to Lugano and Swiss Miniature https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-lugano-and-the-swiss-miniature

Lugano lies in the far south of Switzerland in the Italian-speaking region of Ticino. The city lies along the massive Lake Lugano. If you're travelling with kids, then your vacation to Switzerland will be incomplete without a visit to this region. There is a scenic train, the Gotthard Panorama Express, connecting the north and south of Switzerland, which combines a boat and train journey. Lugano was last on our trip. We had done enough scenic routes, both on boats and trains, so we skipped this scenic train and settled for the regular train journey, which takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to reach from Lucerne. Like the rest of Switzerland, Lugano is also extremely beautiful. Ideally, one should plan to stay here for a few days; although a day trip was also quite gratifying. It has the wondrous Lake Lugano, the iconic mountain peak Monte San Salvatore, cathedrals and beautiful churches and the insanely cute, Swiss Miniature Park. One can walk along the lake promenade, enjoying the views of the peaks across the shore. Swiss Miniature We planned to start our day trip with a visit to the Swiss Miniature. All of Switzerland's major landmarks, 130, to be precise, have been built here on a scale of 1:25. There are miniature train engines that run along small railway lines that are almost 3.5 kilometres long. Mini-funiculars and mini-cars are shown running on small roads and are made to perfection. The detailing that has gone into making these miniatures is awe-inspiring. My Tip If you're travelling with kids, then don't give this one a miss. You'll need about 2.5 hours to see the park. As I've mentioned earlier, Lugano was last on our trip. My kids went into a frenzy trying to identify the miniatures of all the famous landmarks that we had seen in the last few days. There is a small boating pond in the park for very small kids and a small toy train for a joyride through the park. Everything about this park was so endearing that missing it would be a shame if you have small kids travelling with you. Lake Lugano We spent a good 3 hours in the park and then went to Lake Lugano. There is a beautiful waterfront promenade offering stunning views of the lake. There are jetties along the shore of the lake for daily excursions by paddle boats and steamers. We hired one such paddle boat for 4 people. The boat was hilariously slow and difficult to paddle, but the views all around were stunning. One can see the famous Monte San Salvatore from the lake. There is a 12-minute funicular to the top with 360-degree views of the city of Lugano. We had no time left for it, but if you have time, then it's worth the effort. Walking through the city and eating Piadine Lugano is warmer than the rest of Switzerland. Walking through the city was a very pleasing experience. While in Lugano, you must try their famous Piadine. Piadine is similar to a taco, just thicker. It can be eaten with a variety of fillings and is easily available in any roadside eatery. So, you can have it on the go. This was our last day in Switzerland, and it ended on a high note, especially for our kids. Travelling with kids to Switzerland? For more fun tips and things to remember, click on the links below - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/planning-a-family-vacation-with-kids-to-europe-go-switzerland 1. Day trip to Mount Pilatus https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-pilatus 2. Tobogganing at Mt. Pilatus https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/tobogganing-at-mt-pilatus-switzerland-the-world-s-longest-summer-toboggan-run 3. Day trip to Brienz and Interlaken https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-brienz-and-interlaken 4. Day trip to Jungfraujoch https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-jungfraujoch 5. Day trip to Titlis https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-titlis 6. Day trip to Bern https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-bern

Switzerland is a 'Tourist wonderland'. It has an abundance of natural beauty that has been harnessed and laid out on a platter for tourists to savour. If you want to make a family trip to Europe, then travelling to Switzerland is your best bet! Reason? Switzerland boasts excellent infrastructure around every tourist attraction, making your visit comfortable and memorable. In this blog, my focus is on trips/tours/activities that can be done if you are travelling with kids. Check out my blog for more details about our trip to the cities of Geneva, Zermatt and Lucerne https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-weeks-in-switzerland-a-traveller-s-dream-holiday-destination 5 prominent highlights of the country that can make your travel a memorable experience Reliable and efficient transport system The Swiss transport system is very efficient; there are buses, trams, local trains and regional trains connecting all cities and points of tourist interest. All these modes of transport are very well linked with connecting buses, trams and boats to most attractions, which makes travelling for tourists, especially with kids, quite easy. You will always find signage in English, too, along with the local official language. There are good facilities for people with disabilities, too. Funiculars aplenty Some funiculars take you to dizzying heights in no time, so no biking or hiking is needed if you have kids in tow. Gondolas and cable cars connect to scenic high mountain peaks. People with special needs are also looked after well, with provisions for prams and wheelchairs at most places. However, my advice is to check for facilities at individual places. Fun activities galore Along with natural beauty, there are fun activities every step of the way, like the Swiss Miniature Park in Lugano, the Bear Park in Bern, Tobogganing at Mount Pilatus and Kids' trains at so many places. Your kids will love these outings. Swiss Travel Pass The best part about travelling around Switzerland is the Swiss Travel Pass, which offers a multitude of options for hassle-free travel. This is an important travel accessory that can make your travel around the country really comfortable. There is the Swiss Travel Pass Flex, Swiss 1-day Travel Pass, Swiss Half Fare card, Saver Day Pass and Family Pass. This might appear like an advertisement for Travel Passes, but if you have one, you can get into any train, tram, bus, ferry, or boat. These passes can save money and time if you plan to go around city-hopping. A lot of museums and attractions offer discounts with the travel pass. Please check all the latest offers and discounts before your journey. We opted for the Swiss Travel Pass Flex. This pass allows you to pick a specific number of days of travel on dates of your choice. This makes perfect sense with kids since you might want some days of relaxation between excursions. Scenic Trains Many scenic trains run through the countryside and stunning locales offering panoramic views like the Glacier Express, Gornergrat Bahn, Golden Pass Line, Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, and Luzern Interlaken Express, among others. They offer tour packages that one should explore before embarking on a Switzerland vacation. My 5 Personal Tips that might prove helpful if you're planning to visit Switzerland... - Must go for the Swiss Pass. That is the ideal way to travel in Switzerland. No need to validate the pass every time you travel, so just hop into the transport of your choice and you're good to go! - Switzerland offers a variety of attractions, both natural and manmade. It's best to make a wish-list of things you want to see, depending on the number of days and your budget, since there is a plethora of activities to choose from. - Kids get bored with seeing natural beauty only, so your itinerary should include some fun activities for them too. Two things that you should not miss if you have kids with you are, One, Swiss Miniature in Lugano Two, the Transport Museum in Lucerne. Both of these are adorable attractions. We, as grown-ups, could barely contain our excitement. - If you have time, travelling from the north to the south of Switzerland will give you a taste of 3 distinctly different cultures. In Geneva, the spoken language is French, in Lucerne, most people speak Swiss German, and if you travel south, then in Lugano, the language and culture are distinctly Italian. These three different regions will add three different flavours to your trip. - Scenic Trains are wonderful but expensive. So, planning on which one to opt for, depending on the destination of your choice, is important. Check the official website of Switzerland Tourism for more details and offers. https://www.myswitzerland.com/en/ is the official website for Switzerland tourism. There are additional discounts for families with kids; at times, kids can even travel for free! So, look out for offers before making your bookings. Learn about more touristy destinations in Switzerland by clicking on the links below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/2-weeks-in-switzerland-a-traveller-s-dream-holiday-destination 6 Not-to-miss day trips from Lucerne https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-pilatus https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/tobogganing-at-mt-pilatus-switzerland-the-world-s-longest-summer-toboggan-run https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-brienz-and-interlaken https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-jungfraujoch https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-mount-titlis https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-bern https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/6-not-to-miss-day-trips-from-lucerne-switzerland-lugano-and-the-swiss-miniature

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is renowned for its stunning limestone rock formations, which span over 600 square miles of emerald-green seawater. The rocks seem to be perched atop the surface of the sea and are covered in a thick green coat of tropical rainforests as far as the eye can see! The mesmerising landscape changes colours throughout the day, from azure during the day to a dark green as dusk falls. In the evening, all the cruises light up with ferry lights casting luminous glows on the water below...    Noteworthy is that, as a measure to protect the fragile environment of the bay from the pitfalls of excessive tourism, the Halong Bay Cruises in Vietnam are permitted to operate in a small area of the bay only.   Tourists assemble at the Ferry Boarding Point, and they are then led into a smaller ferry that takes about an hour to reach the point where the cruises are parked. You can see cruises of all shapes and sizes hovering around this area, offering a multitude of options to the tourists, from day trips to overnight cruises. A lesser-known fact about this part of the world is that, apart from Halong Bay, two more bays have cruising options, Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. All three bays are accessible from the same harbour, Tuan Chau Harbour. Halong Bay is the most touristy, with most luxury liners cruising on this route. If you're looking for a regular touristy experience, go for the Halong Bay Cruise. But if you're the adventurous sort and wish to explore the unexplored part of this region, then go for Lan Ha Bay. The topography is very similar to Halong Bay, but it's way less crowded. You might not get the luxury liner of your dreams, but you can go for fun activities like kayaking with bioluminescent plankton. Most excursions will include the Cat Ba National Park. Bai Tu Long Bay can be your pick if you're looking for a more authentic Vietnamese experience. You can visit some typical fishing villages with far fewer crowds. But you will need at least 2 to 3 days to be able to enjoy this far-flung locale. Here are a few handy tips that you could use to plan your trip to Halong Bay... There are many cruise options available for Halong Bay. Day cruises, overnight cruises and even cruises for 2 to 3 nights. You can take your pick depending on what you're looking for. The best way to make bookings is through the official websites of cruises or from major booking platforms like Agoda.com and Booking.com . Look out for good deals when making your booking. We opted for an overnight cruise by Peony Cruises. The cost of a couple for a night's stay, all meals excluding drinks, was Rs. 24000 or USD 285. Halong Bay lies close to Halong City, a major tourist destination for cruises. A lot of tourists who head to Halong City from Hanoi travel by road, which is about 2.5 hours. There is a good expressway connecting the two cities. The best time to visit Halong Bay is from September to November and March to May. The times that one should avoid going to Halong Bay are the local Vietnamese holidays, especially around the New Year, both by the international and lunar calendars. This region sees a surge in local tourists at this time. There are two embarkation ports for Halong Bay cruises: One, Tuan Chau Marina and two, Halong International Cruise Port, Bai Chay Ward. As a tourist, one doesn't need to worry about where to embark since most travel companies have operators who will take you directly to your port of embarkation. So, you can just sit back and enjoy the scenic locales. The ferry terminals are very organised with all facilities like restaurants and free toilets. Cruise companies have their ticket counters and also offer some basic refreshments free of cost to their patrons.   Cruising on Halong Bay was an experience like no other... these pictures speak for themselves..    From Da Nang, we took a flight to Da Nang Read more about our Da Nang experience by clicking on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-charming-da-nang-vietnam

We started early from Calgary to reach the beautiful resort town of Banff. The route to Banff is as enchanting as the town itself.... The town has many old villas and chateaus converted into hotels, and the vibe is unmistakably touristy. There are souvenir shops and restaurants on the main street called Banff Avenue, where you can see the peak of Cascade Mountain peering from a distance. Banff was our second stop in Alberta after Calgary. Learn more about our 5-day road trip in Alberta in a separate blog by clicking on the link here https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/5-day-road-trip-in-alberta-the-westernmost-province-of-canada We did not stay in Banff, but instead in the nearby town of Canmore. There are 2 reasons for this - Banff is highly touristy. There are only hotels, lodges and premium residences in Banff. If you're travelling with your family and looking for spacious accommodations like Airbnb with more rooms, you should stay in towns closer to Banff, like Canmore. Being touristy also makes Banff very expensive. If you wish to stay for multiple days, then staying in the quieter nearby towns is a more economical option which are as scenic as Banff. We reached Banff quite early and could easily find a free parking space, but I remember the mad rush at the parking lot by the time we got out in the afternoon. Let me start by stating a few handy pointers about visiting Banff National Park and Jasper National Park : You don't need a pass to enter the town of Banff. You do need to buy a Parks Canada pass to enter the national parks.  You can make reservations online on the official website of the parks in advance at https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/passer-passes , or you can also buy tickets at the counter on the same day. A list of counters where passes can be purchased is mentioned on the website. If you're travelling as a family, then there is an option to buy a family group ticket. Remember, the pass has to be displayed on the windscreen of your vehicle at all times while you're travelling in the park. This entry pass is valid across Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Waterton Lakes and Elk Island national parks. The pass expires at 4:00 pm on the day of departure. Google map signals can be a bit sketchy in a lot of places, especially close to mountainous terrain. It's better to download offline maps before starting the journey and play it safe. We had allocated only 3 days for the national parks, which proved to be very little to cover the multitude of attractions that the parks offer. So, if possible, plan at least 4 to 5 days to see all the attractions. The two most popular lakes in the region are Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, and their inevitable comparison. I've discussed this in greater detail in a separate post on the link pasted here https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-lake-louise-in-banff Day 1 - Drive Calgary to Banff Idled around the town of Banff Bow Falls Surprise View Corner Johnston Canyon Lake Minnewanka Banff is as touristy as it gets. The entire region is bursting with activity, and tourists jostling in queues at popular sights is common. It's important to plan your visit to Banff if you want to utilise your time optimally. There are many activities to do in Banff, like the famous Banff Gondola, museums, cave tours, lots of walking trails and the lakes, of course. The national park has many must-see lakes like Lake Moraine, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Lake Peyto, Lake Emerald and Bow Lake, to name a few. We wanted to see the beautiful glacial lakes with Lake Moraine and Lake Louise at the top of our list. I will discuss this in greater detail in a separate post. We decided to spend our first day in Banff exploring this beautiful town and seeing as many attractions as possible. We started our day in Banff National Park with a trip to Bow Falls . The falls lie at a distance of 128 km from Calgary via the Trans Canada Highway. The falls are free to visit, but you will need the Parks Canada Pass since they lie inside Banff National Park. Close to the falls is the Surprise View Corner. This viewpoint offers great views of the Bow Valley  and the famous Fairmont Banff Springs  across the Bow River. You can walk along the river and the falls and get some amazing views! Surprise View Corner is located at the corner of Tunnel Mountain Road. It's best to walk along the river and then take the stairs to Buffalo Street. The parking lot here is very small; it can barely accommodate 4 to 5 cars, but wait for your turn since people keep moving in and out fairly quickly. There are also a lot of exciting hiking trails all around Bow Falls. After spending a couple of hours in the area, we set out to see Johnston Canyon , which is about 26 km away from Bow Falls. As we drive deeper into Banff National Park, the stunning beauty of the mountains starts unfolding in front of us... Johnston Canyon is the busiest trail in Banff owing to its easy incline in the canyon, which makes it a popular destination among families travelling with kids and the elderly. Quickly hugged my reluctant grown-up son on the pretext of getting a picture clicked... The wooden path along the canyon has a firm railing to hold on to and a very easy incline. The Bow River meanders through the narrow canyon creating stunning scenery... The hike takes you to the last point in the canyon, which ends in a waterfall next to a cave. You will see a long queue of tourists waiting to enter the cave. We followed suit and waited for almost an hour, only to see what? The same waterfall gushing from inside into the canyon!! You can avoid this queue and the cave, too! After spending close to 3 hours at Johnston Canyon, we headed to Lake Minnewanka . The lake is about 36 km from the canyon and is every bit as stunning but less crowded. We spent some quiet time around the lake, clicking pictures on the cliffs and listening to the sound of silence! Day 2 - Calgary to Lake Louise, Overnight at Canmore Lake Louise Fairview Lookout Trail We drove back to Calgary in the evening from Lake Minnewanka. Early the next morning, we set out for Canmore with our bags in tow via Lake Louise on the Trans-Canada Highway. The day was bright and sunny, so we decided to go straight to the lake instead of first checking into our apartment in Canmore. The direct route from Calgary to Lake Louise takes about 2 hours to cover a distance of 185 km. Read more about Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout Trail by clicking on the link pasted above in this post. If you have an extra day to spend on the road and are open to staying overnight somewhere along the way to Lake Louise, then you must take the scenic route from Calgary to Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway , instead of taking the regular Trans-Canada Highway. This roadway is known for its stunning scenic views and picnic spots along the way. When we visited Alberta in June 2024, this parkway was closed. Please refer to the official website of Parks Canada for updated information on this route. To sum up, I'd say that one can cover most of the touristy locales, the must-see attractions in Banff in 2 days, hopping from one attraction to another, but if you wish to soak in this surreal beauty at leisure, then 2 days are not enough. There are so many stunning lakes and walking trails at every turn that we would have loved to spend more time around the lakes. So , plan your trip accordingly.

The Southeast Asian country of Vietnam is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, thanks to the numerous experiences it offers to its visitors. From vibrant cultural hotspots like Danang and Hoi An to the scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, Vietnam has it all. What makes this eclectic mix of attractions even more attractive is that Vietnam offers all of this and more at very competitive prices compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe or elsewhere. We spent 12 days in Vietnam, travelling the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. I'll be sharing my experiences with you of this beautiful, diverse country in the blogs that will follow. But first: My Top Ten Tips for your Vietnam trip... Weather patterns in Vietnam can be very diverse. Hanoi is located in Northern Vietnam, so winters can be cold. The best time to visit Hanoi is from August to October, when the days are pleasant and dry. Ho Chi Minh, on the other hand, lies in the south and enjoys a tropical climate. It's either hot and dry or hot and rainy. We visited in April, Hanoi was cold, Danang in Central Vietnam was pleasant, and Ho Chi Minh City in Southern Vietnam was hot and dry. Most of us perceive Vietnam as a warm, tropical country, but when planning your trip, it's essential to consider the diverse weather patterns. Upon landing in Hanoi, we discovered that the temperature was 15 degrees Celsius. And we were not alone; there were hordes of tourists buying jackets from local shops to beat the cold. Carry cash wherever possible. One day into our visit to Vietnam, we discovered that the best mode of payment is through the local currency, VND (Vietnamese Dong), especially in local markets and for purchasing small items. You will see numerous exchange counters, but these are primarily found in big cities. This brings us to another crucial point. If you're carrying USD, then remember to carry only the relatively new currency notes. Coming from India, we were holding the older notes of USD, and many exchange counters refused to accept them. Ultimately, we had to exchange them at a lower price than the current rate. Be mindful of the exchange rate from your currency to VND The exchange rate of 1.00 USD mostly hovers close to 25,000.00 VND. This can make conversion a bit tricky at times. We took a very short rickshaw ride on our first day in Hanoi and paid in VND. However, due to a lack of clarity in the conversion rate, we ended up paying over $10 for such a short trip. So, working out the conversion math beforehand is a good idea. Haggling in the local market. There is a lot of haggling in the local markets. The quoted price of the jackets we bought in Hanoi was double what we paid in the end. A lot of back-and-forth and haggling was involved. The people are friendly towards tourists, despite the haggling and all. Also, when you opt for guided tours, the outlets and factories they take you to charge higher prices than the regular shops, mostly. We opted for a day trip to the Mekong Delta. En route, we were taken to a factory outlet selling souvenirs. The prices of souvenirs were way higher than similar ones elsewhere. Use your discretion before you make any purchases from thick touristy spots. Vietnam offers various types of visas to individuals from different nationalities. Be sure of what the visa requirements of your country are. The E-Visa option is available for most nationalities; just be sure that you pick the right one. Indians need a visa to enter Vietnam; they can opt for an e-visa or a visa on arrival. For travelling within the country, flights are the best option, although at times, they tend to get delayed or rescheduled. You should be prepared for such eventualities. We were lucky we did not face any such inconvenience, but I have heard accounts of people who were stranded at airports with flight delays. As I've mentioned earlier, Vietnam is a busy tourist destination. If you wish to join any specific tour or do any activity, please make bookings in advance for it. There are day trips from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, overnight cruises for Halong Bay, and the famous Water Puppet Show, among many others. All these bookings should be made beforehand. The most popular outing from Danang is a day trip to Ba Na Hills. While it's not mandatory to make any pre-booking for that, it's better to book in advance so that you can avoid the long queues upon arrival and also ensure that you get entry on the day of your choice. At times, especially on weekends, tickets might get sold out owing to massive crowds. Unlike Europe, running tap water is not suitable for drinking. Do not drink water from bathroom taps. Only drink bottled water. The same rule applies to street food. Vietnam is a haven for street food, but look for hygienic outlets. Additionally, if you prefer your coffee and tea with milk, be aware that milk sachets are often unavailable in hotels in many locations. You will have to buy milk packs or sachets. The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese; however, English is spoken and understood quite well. You will not have any problem communicating in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, although we did come across cab drivers who couldn't speak English. For that, they typically rely on Google Translate. Big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are crowded. Traffic and pollution can be bad, especially on the weekends, leading to congestion. While planning any outing, keep extra time in hand and a face mask too. Our Vietnam itinerary was as follows Fly to Hanoi - 3 nights in Hanoi, including a day-trip to Ninh Binh Please click on the links below to read more about Hanoi and Ninh Binh https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-hanoi-the-capital-of-vietnam https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-ninh-binh-from-hanoi Hanoi to Halong Bay Cruise Terminal by road - Overnight Cruise Please click on the link below to read more about our Halong Bay Cruise experience https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/cruise-on-halong-bay-vietnam Cruise Terminal to Hanoi Airport for flight to Da Nang - 2 nights in Da Nang Please click on the link below to read more about our trip to Da Nang https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-charming-da-nang-vietnam Da Nang to Hoi An - Overnight at Hoi An Please click on the link below to read more about Hoi An https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/hoi-an-the-lantern-city-in-vietnam Hoi An back to Da Nang - Overnight at Da Nang Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City - 3 nights in Ho Chi Minh https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/the-perfect-3-day-itinerary-in-ho-chi-minh-city

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? This is a pertinent question that crops up for most travellers planning to visit Vietnam, as the entry point into Vietnam for their Vietnamese vacation.   So, what makes both these bustling cities of Vietnam different and yet so similar? We came to HCMC from Da Nang and earlier Hanoi, hence a comparison between these two Vietnamese cities is inevitable. Let's find out...   Location Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. Like most capital cities, it is the political and cultural hub of Vietnam. It is located in the northern part of Vietnam and serves as an important gateway to the world-famous natural landscape of Halong Bay and Sapa. Ho Chi Minh was the former capital of Vietnam and is its largest city. It also has the distinction of being Vietnam's main economic hub. HCMC lies in southern Vietnam and is close to the famous Mekong Delta, which can be done on a day trip from here. Weather Hanoi is best visited during the springtime from February to April or from September to November. Winter in Hanoi can be very chilly, with temperatures dipping to as low as 10 degrees Celsius. HCMC enjoys a warm, tropical climate throughout the year. So, the best time to come is between the dry months from December to April. Culture Hanoi is warm and vibrant. You'll get hooked on the city if you spend a weekend in the Old Quarter. Live concerts, lakeside, people sitting around in open-air eateries... sounds like everything distinctly European? No, you'll be surprised to learn that it's very Vietnamese and that's what makes it even more intriguing! The French colonial influence is unmistakable, which is not just present but celebrated. The air is vibrant as dusk falls in Hanoi HCMC is the commercial hub; the city boasts a glittering skyline, a vibrant culinary scene, and a lively nightlife. I felt it exhibits a more distinct American influence than its northern counterpart, Hanoi. HCMC is more modern; it's like any other metropolis, with a very fast-paced city life. HCMC has the Saigon Theatre, famous for its Bamboo dance. Attractions Hanoi has the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It's an experience that could leave you in awe of the pride the Vietnamese people have in their nationality and the love they have for their beloved leader. Hanoi's proximity to the Ninh Binh region is also a big plus. And not to forget, the world-famous Halong Bay is closer to Hanoi, and can be done on a day cruise. The famous art form of Vietnam, water puppetry, is at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, in the Old Quarter. HCMC has the riveting War Remnants Museum and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels . HCMC also serves as a gateway to the famous Mekong Delta . Accommodation Hanoi is touristy, so there's a price tag for being one! The hotels in the city are expensive, and many of them are boutique hotels for visitors. And why not? Visitors are willing to pay more for an overnight stay in the Old Quarter to get the typical Vietnamese feel. HCMC, like any other capital city, offers a large variety of hotels, from corporate ones to touristy ones, fitting every budget and taste. Culinary Scene/Shopping/Nightlife Hanoi is known for its street food. Anyone visiting Vietnam who wishes to experience typical Vietnamese cuisine should first head to Hanoi to savour the traditional Vietnamese dish, especially 'Pho', pronounced ph. Shopping in Hanoi is more of a touristy experience; you'll find small shops selling souvenirs in the Night Market, shoes, scarves and more. The day we arrived in Hanoi, we were taken aback by the cold and decided to buy a jacket each. We were surprised to see jackets of every possible international brand being sold in these shops at very reasonable prices. We were quite amused to see that all these jackets were fakes and were being proudly sold as one! Hanoi has a regular party setting in the Old Quarter. You will find hundreds of low plastic stools scattered along the pavements, with youngsters squatting on them, chatting and munching on roadside snacks and draft beer. Our hotel manager told us that this roadside party place is called Bia Hoi Corner. HCMC, like any other World-class city, has all kinds of restaurants with all levels of pricing. They have food courts with all kinds of cuisines, upscale restaurants and swanky nightclubs, too. I didn't experience the nightlife, but going by the look of it, it would be like any other cosmopolitan city.   HCMC is a shopper's paradise. You will find many upscale boutiques and lots of shopping options in places like Saigon Square, Saigon Centre (Takashimaya), Vincom Centre Dong Khoi, among many others. The good thing about both Hanoi and HCMC is that both are almost equidistant from Danang, which is a city you should not miss. It's close to the lantern city of Hoi An , the stunning Marble Mountain and the famous Ba Na Hills . To sum up, I'd say that Hanoi offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience, the kind that tourists crave; its Vietnam on a platter for you, with culture and cuisine in abundance. HCMC is a beautiful city with good infrastructure that can be used as a convenient entry point into Vietnam.