Month: September 2022

Porto:

Funky Fact: Porto is lovingly known as “Invicta” and the Portuguese from Porto are known as “Tripeiros”(a famed regional dish).

1. Livraria Lello

This incredibly charming little bookstore once had a coffee shop upstairs is said to have been the inspiration for the scenery in the Harry Potter films as J.K. Rolling was writing her famed books, she was living in Porto in the 1990s. I suggest buying an online ticket for 5 euros. I waited for only 10 min. If you want to buy at the ticket counter, the wait can take up to 3 hours.

Webpage and Information: Livraria Lello

2. Cais da Ribeira

Running along the banks of the river, Cais da Ribeira is a lively street lined with shopping and restaurants. It really charms guests in the evening when buskers sing and the sunset turns the river into a mirror of color.

3. Luís I Bridge

This iconic arched bridge straddles the river and connects the two cities of Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia. It was built in 1886 and is a gem of the city. You can walk along the top and bottom story of this double-decker beauty and take in stunning sweeping panoramas of the city.

4. Church of São Francisco

Historic baroque style church famed for opulent carved gold leaf interior. The Church of São Francisco is one of the oldest buildings in the city and dates back to the 13th century.

5. Rua das Flores

This Street opened in 1521 and is now a bustling shopping street. In the 19th century, it was the wealthiest neighborhood and continues to flourish. Don’t forget to peek down the side streets and find the giant blue cat, likely drawn to all the sardines.

6. Clérigos Church or Torre dos Clérigos

This iconic 75-meter-tall bell tower was built in 1750 and has a stunning baroque facade. Visitors can climb its steep steps and take in a stunning city view from the top veranda.

7. Porto Cathedral and the Pillory of Porto

The Roman Catholic Church is perched high above the city. Also known as the Sé Cathedral it was constructed in the 12th and 13th centuries, it’s one of the most famous buildings in the city.

8. Muralha Fernandina

Check out the Walls of Dom Fernando, also known as the Fernandine Walls. They are the remains of the medieval fortification that was built in the 14th century, they were restored in the 1920s and can be seen in various areas throughout the city.

9. Gardens of the Crystal Palace – Jardins do Palácio de Cristal

The original crystal palace was built in the 1860s and replaced by what is called the ‘UFO’ in the 1950s. Today the landscaped gardens offer fountains, ponds, peacocks, paths, and stunning visas of the Douro river.

10. Port Wine Caves

A must when visiting Porto is a cave tour paired with a sampling of Port wine. Just up the river from the city is the Douro Valley, which has been growing wine for centuries. There are dozens of distillery caves all over the city but my favorite was Quevedo. I tasted three aged ports (10-25 euro) and fell in love with their family’s secret: the 30-year-old aged white port. It’s toasted hazelnuts in a glass! Simply heavenly.

11. Igreja do Carmo

These two Churches are a must-visit on your trip to Porto. This appears to be one massive church but is actually two churches separated by a thin house to separate the monks from the nuns. The most famous part of this site is the stunning azulejos facade. The lovingly handprinted blue tiles on the exterior depict and rich baroque and rococo style scene showing the Brown Scapular imposition on Mount Carmel.

12. Mural ‘Mira’

Mural ‘Mira’ by street artist Daniel Eime. This huge stencil graffiti piece shows the strength of the city in its old age.

13. Mercado Ferreira Borges

This 1885 glass ceiling posts stunning original iron work. Once uses as a fruit market hall it’s now home to a nightclub and restaurant.

14. WOW Porto the Culture District

A place where culture, history, and dining collide this artistically renovated district has a playful labyrinth of discoveries. Everything from world-class museum experiences, twelve restaurants, bars and cafés, shopping, gallery exhibits, and even a wine school.

Webpage and Information: WOW Porto the Culture District

15. Jardim do Morro

Take the cable car up to the most romantic sunset views in the city. This palm tree-lined garden is at the summit of the hill and gives visitors the perfect vista of the city.

16. Half Rabbit

A towering commentary on human consumption, this three dimensions sculpture clings to the facade on a street corner. Composed of recycled trash the rabbit poses still half colorful and hopeful to the future and half dark and ominous. It can be found down a quiet street in Gaia, Portugal.

17. Igre de Santo Ildefonso

This 18th century church is the perfect place to catch a photo with those stunning blue tiles and avoid the crowds of people.

18. Rua de Miguel Bombarda

This lesser known art street has tons of hidden gems for the street art aficionado. It also filled with art galleries, shopping, stunning tile buildings, and restaurants.

19. Mercado Bom Sucesso

This fully renovated market hall has modern flair and is full of different restaurants, eateries, and bars with a huge variety of cuisines and drinks to try.

20. Sao Bento Station

One of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. This gem was constructed in 1900 and named after the Benedictine monastery that once stood here. The wall of the entrance hall dazzle visitors with rich blue and white tile splendor. It’s especially stunning as sunset as the light filters through the stained glass windows.

21. Pasteis de Nata

This Portuguese delicacy is a must try on your stay in Porto. Its signature flaky crust and sweet custard filling are world-famous and will have you hooked.

22. Postigo do Carvao

An unusual city site is the Postigo do Carvao. It’s the only remaining gate built into the medieval Fernandine Walls.

23. Casa Portuguesa do Pastel de Bacalhau

An indescribable experience this place is a riot of color that celebrates two Portuguese delicacies: the codfish cake (pastel de bacalhau) and Queijo da Serra (Serra cheese).

24. Portuguese Sardine Factory

An unusual touristic stop is to one of many sardine canneries in Porto. Decorated like a candy store they house massive collections of artisanal canned fish. This traditional food has been a staple in Portugal for ages and you can visit one such as ‘O Mundo Fantástico das Sardinhas Portuguesas’ for a fishy treat.

25. 3+ ARTE

Hybrid space that runs on art and wine. Fabulous service and wonderfully quirky art to enjoy while you sip some of the finest glasses of port.

Andermatt:

Funky Fact: The Historic Village of Andermatt dated all the way back to 4000 BC.

1. Walk Main Street: Gotthardstrausse

Gotthardstrausse is the original main street and contains most of the sights in town. Make sure to look up and all the ornate vintage signage that hints at the city’s history.

2. Talmuseum Ursern

Built in 1786 this charming chalet is a must see when visiting the city and now functions as a museum. The museum focuses on cultural history, military, alpine economy and tourism.

Webpage and Information: Talmuseum Ursern

3. Faun – Hirtengott

This fountain and sculpture is of a charming satyr. They are believed to be the “Shepard gods” and protectors of farmers and shepherds, their cattle and their fields.

4. Blue Bear

Find the cities blue bear and take a selfie. Bears symbols are seen throughout this region. The ‘Ursern’ valley is a modern adaptation of ‘Ursaria’ which is believed to be the Romans name for the valley, this translates to ‘bear’ valley.

5. Bear Fountain

The fountain was built around 1580 by Johann II Schmid. Before homes had running water, this Fountain was the source for each home to grab a bucket from. The fountain’s front face showcases the coat of arms of the Ursern Valley.

6. Tavillons

Look for chalets adorned with thousands of wooden shingles called ‘tavillons (French)’. The tradition and craft of this type of shingling is passed down orally and tradesman are called ‘tavillonneur’ with their own signature methods.

7. Bridge stroll

Walk the river and cross over the Unteralpreuss while drinking in the majestic alps scenery.

8. The Hotel Schweizerhof

Catch a glimpse of this Swiss gem. Well over 100 years old this is a family run hotel, it’s been in the Somoza-Sasso family since 1979.

9. Rath Haus or Town hall

This building has been rebuilt due to a fire but has been in this spot since 1459. Take a close look at the carved coat of arms from 1931 half way up the façade.

10. William Tell

Hunt for folklore and see if you can spot this nod to William Tell the famous marksman. According to legend, William was a Swiss patriot and shot an apple off his son’s head with a bow and arrow. He refused to submit to the Hapsburg liege and was forced to this test of marksmanship in 1307.

11. Hotel Zur Sonne

This stunning vintage chalet is the quintessential alpine escape. Note the ornate dangling golden sun, which is a nod to the hotels name which translates “to the sun”

12. Half & half house

As you are strolling, look for the half and half house. Half traditional shingle half sawn timber construction.

Zermatt:

Food: $$$-$$$$

Funky Fact: The Matterhorn towers over Zermatt and is the world’s most photographed mountain

The Eiger Express:

Cost: 32 CHF (Swiss francs) one way.

Funky Fact: The Express opened in 2020.

Tune:

Funky Fact: The Language spoken in Tune is a Alemannic Swiss German dialect.

Grindelwald:

Funky Fact: Grindelwald is known as the “glacier village.”

1. Grindelwald Museum

Open since 1963 this museum focuses on a chronology of climbers and local history it also includes a tour and video for 5 francs.

Webpage and Information: Grindelwald Museum

2. Funi Sled

The Funi sled drove the footpath above the mainstream of Dorfstrasse. The route was about 400 meters long and the journey took 2 minutes and 15 seconds. It opened in the winter of 1938 and ran until the 1990s.

3. Bells

Look for bells around the city you’ll find traditional cow bell collections. It is believed that the bell has the power to banish evil and invite good fortune.

4. Bouldering

Climb the free rock wall! You’ll find this hidden gem in an alley off Main Street.

5. Weather Column

Restored in 2007, this historic device was built in 1906. The Column includes a Barograph, thermograph, thermo-hygroscopic, can barometer, mercury barometer and polymeter. All 6 meteorological instruments are in perfect working condition.

6. Reformierte Kirche

It stunning white tower reflects the famous mountains that set its backdrop. The churches records go back to 1147 and it mountaineering cemetery is the final resting place to many who perished while attempting to climb the surrounding peaks.

7. First Cliff Walk

Just a short gondola ride up from Grindelwald is First. First overlooks the entire Valley and has a fear inducing cliff walk with a bar and restaurant attached.

Webpage and Information: First Cliff Walk

8. First Glider

If you up for some adrenaline try a 15 min. ride on the First Glider. This 83 km/h zip line shoots you down a long cable with 4 friends strapped to a giant Eagle. Extra pants not included.

9. First Mountain Cart

If you prefer to get back down from First in another way. You can ride down in a Mountain Cart. The ride zigzags down a 3 k long gravel path.

Interlaken:

Funky Fact: The original town grew around the Monastery, which was built around 1133.

1. River and Dam Walk: Mühleschleuse / Kleine Staatsschleuse

Stroll the river Aare and check out the Mühleschleuse / Kleine Staatsschleuse Dam. Its a stunning sight to watch the bright turquoise waters flow through town.

2. St. Beatus Cave and Waterfalls

Visitor can explore one Kilometer of the roughly 14 km of cave network. This well lit cave network takes you deep into the mountain side twisting and turning next to an underground river.

3. Weissenau Castle

A short walk past a golf course will take you to the ruins of Weissenau Castle. Built around 1298, this lesser-known tourist stop was empty for our visit.

4. Dirndl Shopping

Shop for a traditional Swiss dress called a ‘dirndl.’ These dresses are traditionally worn by women and girls in Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Alpine regions of Italy. These dresses are beautifully made and sold all over town.

5. Paraglide Interlaken

Learn to fly …or at least watch others do it. Plan on spending some time strolling in Schlosspark. In the mornings and afternoons it’s the landing zone for hundreds of paragliders.

6. Lindt Store

Located on the Main Street. The Lindt store is sure to lure you in with its sweet scent wafting all over town. Stop in for a free chocolate and take home a personalized selections of your favorite flavors.

7. Carriage Ride

Hold your horses! Take a carriage ride through Interlaken on a hose drawn buggy. Carriages line up by the park to take lovers and families for a spin.

8. Top of Europe Flagship Store

A wonderful collection of memorabilia, art, trinkets, gifts and keepsakes. The store even has inlaid railroad flooring and a full size train inside. This creative store is a great place to pick up a gift to remember your trip.

9. Thunersee and Brienzersee

Visit the lakes! You can drive around them, take a boat tour, kayak them or hike them. No matter your preference they are both sure to take your breath away with their stunning color.

10. Arcobaleno

Get some pie at Arcobaleno, a pizzeria and restaurant covered in ginger-breading and floral boques. It’s a fantastic place for lunch or dinner (note that they are closed from 2-5pm).

Lauterbrunnen:

Cost: Free to wander. Food: $$-$$$$

Funky Fact: The city has a stunning setting and is set inside what’s known as: The Valley Of 72 Waterfalls.

1. Staubbach falls

The magical Staubbach falls looms over the town and has a conviennent but steep hike to take a peek under its cascade.

2. The Fountain of Youth

Take a refreshing sip from the endlessly flowing cedar carved drinking fountain. Located next to the Hotel Oberland.

3. Shop ‘Auf der Fuhren’

The main walking street ‘Auf der Fuhren’ is a perfect car and pedestrian shared street with bountiful baskets over flowing with flower and adorable chalets oozing charm.

4. Cimetière de Lauterbrunnen

Known as Friedhof Lauterbrunnen – Cimetière de Lauterbrunnen this instagram worthy cemetery boasting eternally beautiful views. surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and lovingly planted flowers.

5. Swiss Cows

Take a walk down hill to grab a photo with the two Swiss cows in-front of the Weidstübli Restaurant.

6. Sunset Vista

During sunset the valley glows gold in the evenings when the suns last rays cascade through the valley.

7. Hotel Horner

Hotel Horner has a Pub and Restaurant the serves fantastic Raclette with boiled potatoes, pickled veggies and a laidback vibe.

8. Tom and Jerry

While wandering town keep a lookout for Tom and Jerry on the quest to find the perfect Swiss cheese.

9. Swiss Pride

Take in the stunning valley and see why the Swiss love their country so much. hundred of feet up in the cliffs a hidden Swiss flag can be spotted tucked into a cliffside cave.

Ulaanbaatar:

Funky Fact: Interestingly enough, Mongolia is the world’s least populated country.

1. Seoul street (pub street)

2. Sukhbaatar square

3. Hashtag beer and cheese

4. Bar at the blue sky lounge

5. Hot Pot at the Bull

1. Seoul Street vibrancy

Known as the Light Street, The best night time strip for food, libations dancing and music. In the summer, Seoul street road close for the weekend, making it the only car-free street in the city. Check out the Grand Khaan Irish Pub on Seoul Street. It’s at the heart of the nightlife.

2. Sukhbaatar Square

Named after the hero Damdin Sükhbaatar (He declared lasting independence from China). Sükhbaatar has a bronze statue of remembrance in the center of the square. This plaza is where ceremonies, protests and concerts are held. To the North is the Parliament Building with statues of Chinggis Khaan and Kublai Khan. As well as two Equestrian statues of Boorchi and Mukhulai. This plaza is stunning in the morning Sunlight. It’s very lively during the Naadam festival.

4. The Blue Sky hotel and bar.

This Hotel bar is one to checkout! Their sky lounge offers killer views of the city and great drinks.

5. The Bull Hot Pot

This chain can be found all over the city but deserves a round of applause. Their food is stunning, beautifully plated and delicious.