Tag: trip

Top 10 Things To Do in La Candelaria Bogota, Colombia

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

La Candelaria is the historic district of Bogotá, Colombia, and it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. This charming neighborhood is known for its colorful colonial architecture, narrow streets, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can find plenty of things to do in La Candelaria, from exploring museums and galleries to tasting traditional Colombian food and drinks. In this article, we will cover the top 10 things to do in La Candelaria, including trying local drinks and foods, admiring street art, and visiting historical landmarks.

  1. Drink Chicha – Chicha is a traditional fermented corn drink that has been enjoyed in Colombia for centuries. It’s made by boiling corn, adding sugar, and letting the mixture ferment for a few days. The result is a slightly sweet, slightly sour beverage that is both refreshing and filling. In La Candelaria, you can find many small shops and street vendors selling Chicha. Don’t miss the opportunity to try this delicious and unique drink.
  2. Mural Tour – La Candelaria is known for its vibrant street art scene, and there are many amazing murals and graffiti works to see in the neighborhood. Take a walking tour of the area and admire the colorful and thought-provoking artworks that adorn the walls of buildings and alleyways. You can book a guided tour or explore on your own.
  3. Try Coca Tea – Coca tea is a traditional drink that is made from the leaves of the coca plant. It’s believed to have many health benefits, including relieving altitude sickness and boosting energy. You can find coca tea in many cafes and restaurants in La Candelaria. It has a mild, earthy flavor and is a great way to stay hydrated and energized while exploring the neighborhood.
  4. See Plaza Bolivar – Plaza Bolivar is the main square in La Candelaria and the heart of the historic district. It’s named after Simon Bolivar, the liberator of Colombia and many other South American countries. The plaza is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings and is home to the magnificent Cathedral of Bogotá. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and take in the atmosphere of La Candelaria.
  5. Visit the Gold Museum – The Gold Museum is one of the most famous museums in Bogotá and is located in La Candelaria. It’s home to a vast collection of pre-Columbian gold artifacts, including jewelry, masks, and sculptures. The museum provides a fascinating insight into the rich history and culture of Colombia’s indigenous peoples.
  6. Taste Arepas – Arepas are a traditional Colombian snack that is made from corn flour and grilled or fried. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and can be filled with a variety of toppings, including cheese, meat, and vegetables. La Candelaria has many street vendors selling delicious arepas. It’s a must-try snack while exploring the neighborhood.
  7. Visit the Botero Museum – The Botero Museum is another popular museum in La Candelaria, and it’s dedicated to the work of Colombian artist Fernando Botero. The museum contains a vast collection of Botero’s paintings, sculptures, and drawings, as well as works by other artists. It’s a great place to appreciate Colombian art and culture.
  8. Explore the La Candelaria Market – The La Candelaria Market is a bustling market that is located in the heart of the neighborhood. It’s a great place to buy fresh produce, meat, and fish, as well as souvenirs and handicrafts. The market is a colorful and lively place, and it’s a great way to experience the local culture.
  9. Visit the Chorro de Quevedo Chorro de Quevedo is a small plaza located in the heart of La Candelaria. It is believed to be the place where the city of Bogota was founded in 1538. Today, it is a popular meeting spot for locals and tourists alike. The plaza is lined with bars, cafes, and street vendors selling local snacks and souvenirs.
  10. Try buñuelos Buñuelos are a popular Colombian snack made from a mixture of cheese and cornmeal. They are fried until crispy and served warm. You can find buñuelos being sold on the streets of La Candelaria, particularly around the Chorro de Quevedo.
  11. Bonus near La Candelaria: Take a cable car ride to Monserrate Monserrate is a hill overlooking Bogota, and taking a cable car ride to the top is a popular activity for visitors to the city. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Monserrate located just a short distance from La Candelaria and is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Bogota.

Top Sights Travel Guide to Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Amsterdam:

Funky Fact: Dutch men are among the tallest in the world.

Top sights and must see destinations in the beautiful and historic city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands.

1. Oifantsbrug (Elephant Bridge)

2. I Amsterdam Sign

3. Rijksmuseum Sculpture Garden

4. Rijksmuseum

5. The Oude Church

6. Heineken Brewery

7. De Gooyer Molen (Windmill)

8. The Red Light District

9. Bloemanmarkt

10. Canal Boat Life

11. Anne Frank House

12. Homomonument (LGBT Memorial)

13. Rembrandtplein (The Nightwatch)

14. Memorial to Auschwitz Victims

15. Street Poetry

Oifantsbrug (Elephant Bridge)

1. Oifantsbrug (Elephant Bridge)

Also called the 1957 Bridge, it crosses over the Singelgracht. Interestingly enough this and the sup pounding bridges are names after animals in the nearby Artis Royal Zoo.

I Amsterdam Sign

2. I Amsterdam Sign

The most popular #selfie spot in the city was outside the Museumplein until 2018 when they were moved due to a city council initiative to reduce the crowding. They now move from place to place and are currently at the main entrance of Schiphol airport.

Rijksmuseum Sculpture Garden

3. Rijksmuseum Sculpture Garden

The museum has a ‘green outdoor gallery’ with rotating sculptures, a water maze and a stunning 19th century glass greenhouse.

Rijksmuseum

4. Rijksmuseum

A must see museum for art lovers. This place is home to 800 years of Dutch art. There are works by Rembrandt, Vermeer and even Van Gogh.

Museum Webpage and Information: Rijksmuseum

The Oude Church

5. The Oude Church

Amsterdam’s oldest building this church is from 1213. Be sure to check out the gleaming organ inside known for its unique sound.

Webpage and Information: Oude Church

Heineken Brewery

6. Heineken Brewery

The famous Dutch beer has a fantastic tour in its old brewery. This interactive and immersive experience ends with a tasting. The brewer opened in 1864 and has grown to be one the largest breweries in the world.

Webpage and Information: Heineken Brewery

De Gooyer Molen (Windmill)

7. De Gooyer Molen (Windmill)

The tallest windmill in the Netherlands, its conveniently located in the city and is registered as a national Historic monument. its the last of 26 mill that stool around the city and dates back to the early 1600s.

The Red Light District

8. The Red Light District

Well, its an interesting experience. Mostly nude ladies stand in tiny windows waving and smiling to groups of oogling men. Prostitution is legal here and has been since 1811. Promoting prostitution or such services in the street is illegal and come with a fine, workers must stay behind the windows while working.

Bloemenmarkt

9. Bloemenmarkt

Here floats the worlds only tower market on the waters of the Singel Canal. This floral haven has been around since 1862. Most shops sell souvenirs and flower bulbs as well as stunning bouquets.

Information: Bloemenmarkt

Canal Boat

10. Canal Boat Life

With over 60 miles of canal waterways in Amsterdam, its the prefect place to live on a longboat (canal boat). The city has over 2,500 live aboard houseboats, some you can even rent out for a night of your stay.

Ann Frank's House

11. Ann Frank’s House

This is where the famed young author Ann Frank lived and hid behind a bookcase from the Nazi doing World War II. This is now a museum with over a million visitors a year.

Webpage and Information: Ann Frank’s House

Homomonument (LGBTQA+ Memorial)

12. Homomonument (LGBT Memorial)

In 1987, designer Karin Daan unveiled a commemoration art piece to the world. This piece recognizes the struggle and persecution of the LGBTQA+ community. An arial view of the piece show the 3 sides of a pink triangle.

Rembrandtplein (The Night Watch)

13. Rembrandtplein (The Night Watch)

A cast iron portrait of Rembrandt stands over character from his painting The Night Watch. This 22 statues have reportedly being removed by the artist and only the main Rembrandt can be seen. The artist and city could not reach an agreement on the price to rent the statues or to buy them from the artist for over a 1.3 million.

Memorial to Auschwitz Victims

14. Memorial to Auschwitz Victims

A stunning and sorrowful mirror and glass work of memorial art can be found in the Wertheimpark. The memorial opened in 1977 and was expanded to the present day versions. Some of the sad text in the monument reads: “…more than 107,000 Jews deported from the Netherlands. Only 5,200 survived the Nazi concentration camps and returned...”

Street Poetry

15. Street Poetry

A sorrowful street poem on the high facade of an old orphanage by poet Joost van den Vondel, 1634.

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Top Sights Travel Guide to Dublin, Ireland

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Dublin:

Funky Fact: The history of All Hallows Eve can be traced back to Ireland.

Top sights and must see destinations in the beautiful city of Dublin in Ireland.

1. National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland

2. Temple Bar

3. Ha’penny Bridge

4. Millennium Bridge

5. The Nightmare Realm

6. The Brazen Head & Black Pudding

7. The Hungry Tree

8. Jeanie Johnston Ship: An Irish Famine Story

9. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

10. Seán O’Casey Bridge

11. Samuel Becket Bridge

12. The Five Lamps

13. Irish Whiskey Museum

14. Molly Malone Statue

15. Trinity College

16. Dublin Castle

17. St Patrick’s Cathedral

18. Guinness Store House

19. Viking Splash Tours

20. National Concert Hall and Irish Blessing

21. Grand Canal Locks and Longboats

22. Shelbourne Park (Greyhound Racing)

23. Galic Games

24. Glasnevin Cemetary

25. Wellington Monument

26. Blarney Castle

27. The Book of Kells

28. The Spire

29. Christ Church Cathedral

30. Stop Wars by Fink

31. Countryside Drive

1. National Leprechaun Museum of Ireland

The Temple Bar

2. The Temple Bar

A must see on any trip to Dubin. The Temple bar was established in 1840 is home to the largest whiskey collection in Ireland, estimated to be 450 varieties. Guest are usually greeted with a Live Irish band that plays traditional music daily and a bar buzzing with life.

Webpage and Information: Temple Bar

3. Ha’penny Bridge

Liffey Riverside Sunset Stroll

4. Millennium Bridge and Liffey Riverside Sunset Stroll

One of the most magical evening activities in Dublin is strolling the river Liffey during sunset. If your interested in a more unusual stroll check out Dublins active geo-cache community for an interesting adventure.

5. The Nightmare Realm

Black Pudding

6. The Brazen Head & Black Pudding

Check out the Famed Brazen Head to try some fantastic traditional food and drinks. A special Irish dish is Black Pudding: this pork or beef blood cut sausage is mixed with cereal, oatmeal, oat groats, or barley groats. It’s traditional in Ireland and in the U.K.

7. The Hungry Tree

8. Jeanie Johnston Ship: An Irish Famine Story

9. EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

10. Seán O’Casey Bridge

11. Samuel Becket Bridge

12. The Five Lamps

13. Irish Whiskey Museum

14. Molly Malone Statue

15. Trinity College

Dublin Castle

16. Dublin Castle

The historic center of Dublin, the castle was built in the 3th century. Its had many uses over the centuries and served as a fortress, a prison, treasury, and court. Today it’s a tourist stop as well as an event center for State Events and Inaugurations.

Webpage and Information: Dublin Castle

St. Patrick's Cathedral

17. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

This tourist gem is the perfect stop for music lovers. The Choir here is famous for its Choir School. Built in the 1220s, it’s also on of the few building in Dublin that still remains from the Medieval city of Dublin.

Guinness Brewery

18. Guinness Brewery

This site is the original brewery site where Arthur Guinness started brewing in 1759. Irelands most iconic beer has a place where patrons can adore its dark mystic.

A little know fact is that the Guinness Book of World Records was a brainchild of a managing director in the 1950s.

A Draft of Guinness

18. A Draft of Guinness

For those that love the darker brews, like me, we contribute to the more that 10 million glasses of Guinness sold daily. Oddly enough it very popular in Africa. Scientist have calculate that to achieve the perfect pour tenders should hold the glass at a 45 degree angle and fill for 119.5 seconds.

19. Viking Splash Tours

Irish Blessing

20. National Concert Hall and Irish Blessing

An Irish blessing is given to a person needing God’s protection or help along a journey. There are various interpretations. tech out the National Concert Hall for more Culture and Music.

21. Grand Canal Locks and Longboats

22. Shelbourne Park (Greyhound Racing)

23. Galic Games

24. Glasnevin Cemetary

Wellington Monument

25. Wellington Monument

A large obelisk in a field at Phoenix Park. This was  built in 1817 to celebrate the Arthur Wellesley (1st Duke of Wellington) victory during the Battle of Waterloo. Its a great place to have a sunset picnic.

Kiss the Blarney Stone

26. Kiss the Blarney Stone

Take a day trip to Blarney Castle to Kiss The Blarney Stone. Its a 2 hours and 40 min drive (each way) but is well worth it to get the gift of gab. Yes, you can still kiss the stone. COVID precautions are in place visit their website to read the ever changing regulations. Be warned to arrive early at wait times can take up to two hours.

27. The Book of Kells

The spire

28. The Spire

An unusually tall spike in the middle of O’Connell Street has no point to commemorate but the future of Ireland being long and bright. It was the winning design in an architectural competition.

Christ Church Cathedral

29. Christ Church Cathedral

An Ancient history lies behind the walls of this church, it was founded in 1030 by Sitric, King of the Dublin Norsemen. Take a tour and be sure to check out the stunning floor tiles.

Stop Wars by Fink

30. Stop Wars by Fink

Street Art in Dublin on Francis Street. Street art is a rebellion in Dublin, the city demand that any changes to the Facade of building need planning permission. While street art of Dublin scoff in the face of the planning department, Dublin is full of incredible street art at the ready to be covered over in gray paint by the paper pushers at the city. Take a walking tour an be amazed at your discoveries.

Countryside Drive

31. Countryside Drive

You didn’t visit Ireland if you never saw the beauty of the emerald rolling hills that stretch beyond sight. Take a bus out to a small town and enjoy the slower side of life.

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Top Sights Travel Guide to Tokyo, Japan

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Author and Editor: Gabriella Grace

Tokyo:

Funky Fact: Tokyo used to have a different name: Edo.

The top sites in Tokyo, Japan. The ultimate travel guide for culture, hidden gems, and secret sites.

1 Tokyo Tower (東京タワー)

2. Hello Kitty Construction Barricades (かわいい)

3. Sugidama Ball (酒林・杉玉)

4. Ema Tablets (絵馬)

5. Imperial Palace (Kōkyo or 皇居)

6. Tanuki Statue (good luck) raccoon dog (タヌキ)

7. Piss Alley (Shonben Yokocho) Shinuku Bars (思い出横丁)

8. Dango (団子)

9. Shide (紙垂, 四手)

10. Matsuri Street Food Matsuri  (祭)  Street Food (屋台)

11. Toyokawa Inari Betsuin (shinjitai: 豊川稲荷; kyūjitai: 豐川稲荷)

12. Mikoshi (神輿) 

13. Ichigo, Mikan, Ringo Ame (リンゴ、イチゴ, みかんアメ)

14. Roppongi or Aoyama Cemetery (青山霊園, Aoyama reien) 

15. Ramen (ラーメン)

16. Kabukicho (Red Light District, Kabukichō, 歌舞伎町)

17. Takoyaki Stall (たこ焼き or 蛸焼)

18. Peace Poll (ピースポール)

19. Sustainable architecture

20. Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点, Shibuya sukuranburu kōsaten)

21. Rickshaws (人力車)

22. Paper Crane Wish (千羽鶴 Senbazuru)

23. 5 Gallons Bar

24. Benkei Fly Fishing Club (東京フライフィッシング＆カントリークラブ)

Tokyo Tower (東京タワー)

1. Tokyo Tower (東京タワー)

Piercing the sky in the center of town it the Tokyo Tower. This 1,092 feet tall red structure is an icon communications and observation tower on the Tokyo skyline. It is seen as a symbol of rebirth of the nation after the horrors of WWII.

Hello Kitty Construction Barricades (かわいい)

2. Hello Kitty Construction Barricades (かわいい)

Japan has a side to its culture called kawaii, that relishes in cuteness. This unusual example can be seen in the Shinjuk and provided functionality with cultural relevance. If there is a way to change an eyesore into an adorable site that makes people want to take a photo, this is it!

Sugidama Ball (酒林・杉玉)

3. Sugidama Ball (酒林・杉玉)

Sugidama ball (sugi-dama) made from sprigs of Japanese Cedar. You will see these in the winter set up around Saki breweries. Its a symbol to Saki fans that next years batch is brewing. You can also see them near izakaya restaurants and sake stores.

Ema Tablets (絵馬)

4. Ema Tablets (絵馬)

Ema are small wooden tablets used by worshippers to convey their prayers, desires or gratitude to the deities they worship. They are often seen at temples but the hundreds.

Imperial Palace (Kōkyo or 皇居)

5. Imperial Palace (Kōkyo or 皇居)

This is the is one of the residence of Tokyo’s Imperial Family. Most of the grounds are open to the public as a large park area surrounded by moats and massive stone walls. Part of the complex is closed as its the Imperial private residence. Its been the site of continues reconstruction over the centuries, but has been here since 1437.

Tanuki Statue (タヌキ)

6. Tanuki Statue (タヌキ)

These can be seen around the city and are good luck statues. They portray a raccoon dog which is a real animal that lives in Asia. These are supernatural being in Japanes folklore, that can shape-shift. Its said that the animal has 8 special trait that make him lucky:

-A hat (to protect from weather)

-Large eyes (to watch the environment)

-Sake (representing virtue)

-A tail (provides balance and strength)

-An oversized scrotum (symbolizes financial luck)

-A promissory note (showing trust and confidence)

-A large belly (shows calm decisiveness; and

-A friendly smile

Piss Alley and Shinjuku Bars (思い出横丁)

7. Piss Alley and Shinjuku Bars (思い出横丁)

This place has a few names known as Nonbei Yokocho, Drunkard’s Alley, Piss Alley, Omoide Yokocho, or Memory Lane. Its now a unique collection of mice bars, grill restaurants and street food stalls. When I say micro, I mean some bars are the size of a closet with space for only 4 patrons at a time. This was one of my favorite places to stroll and people watch in all of Tokyo, its chock full or quirky art and themed pubs that will have you entertained all night!

Dango (団子)

8. Dango (団子)

These fabulous round Japanese dumplings are lovingly crafted with rice flour and glutinous rice flour. It’s similar to mochi and usually served 3-5 together on a skewer. They are often sweet in flavor and sometimes served with a drizzle.

Shide (紙垂, 四手)

9. Shide (紙垂, 四手)

This is small unique detail that I saw around Tokyo. Its almost not noticeable but if your looking, you’ll see these zig-zag folded papers hung around the city. These little “lightning wands” are usually attached to a shrine to denote a public shrine or private alter.

Matsuri  (祭)  Street Food (屋台)

10. Matsuri  (祭)  Street Food (屋台)

A Matruri’s are ceremonies or festivals that take place throughout the year. They are usually celebrated with an evening of celebration in the form of a Yatai or street food in a pop-up market. There are many traditional foods including: decorated chocolate dipped bananas, takoyaki, yakisoba, gilled meats, Ikayaki (grilled squid) and candies fruit.

Toyokawa Inari Betsuin (shinjitai: 豊川稲荷; kyūjitai: 豐川稲荷)

11. Toyokawa Inari Betsuin (shinjitai: 豊川稲荷; kyūjitai: 豐川稲荷)

The stunning lantern filled shrine is famous for its hundreds of shinto fox deities. The Shinto Fox is a seen to have the ability to ward off evil, as well as protect and guard. Two foxes are often seen flanking red torii gates as guards.

Mikoshi (神輿)

12. Mikoshi (神輿) 

In Tokyo, Japan patrons carry a Mikoshi from the shrine, around the neighborhood participating in shouldering the shrine during a festival. They wave it wildly from side to side to “amuse” the deity (kami) inside while chanting. Mikoshi outings occur during local city festivals and events and vary by time of year.

Ichigo, Mikan, Ringo Ame (リンゴ、イチゴ, みかんアメ)

13. Ichigo, Mikan, Ringo Ame (リンゴ、イチゴ, みかんアメ)

These infamous sugar coated candies are fruit coated delights. It’s common to see glistening coated oranges, strawberries, cherries and apricots.

Roppongi or Aoyama Cemetery (青山霊園, Aoyama reien) 

14. Roppongi or Aoyama Cemetery (青山霊園, Aoyama reien) 

A suprising sight in the middles of the bust city remind you to slow down and enjoy your days. This Cemetery was established in 1874 and the the final resting place for thousands of departed loved ones.

Ramen (ラーメン)

15. Ramen (ラーメン)

Ramen and Soba bowls have a long history in Japan that connects to both world wars and the industrialization of a city needing quick delicious meals. In Tokyo, you should be trying one or two bowls daily. Bowls cost about 600-1,200 yen ($4-8 USD) each and can be order and served for a quick and efficient meal.

Kabukicho (Red Light District, Kabukichō, 歌舞伎町)

16. Kabukicho (Red Light District, Kabukichō, 歌舞伎町)

This busy district is family friendly by day and turns adults only after the sunsets. Its filled with shopping, restaurants, ever glowing neon signs, karaoke bars, dance clubs, strip-clubs, and private love hotels (In these institution prostitution sometimes occurs). Please Be Cautions of the allure of an overly friendly or pushy sales reps here, I have read they can target tourists and have been reports of drugging.

Takoyaki Stall (たこ焼き or 蛸焼)

17. Takoyaki Stall (たこ焼き or 蛸焼)

These grilled octopus stands can be found flaunting their delicious fragrances all over the city in markets. They are offer grilled batter balls filled with a variety fish, octopus, ginger an topped with veggies and sauce.

Peace Poll (ピースポール)

18. Peace Poll (ピースポール)

These fantastic little monuments were a Japanese brainchild that grew to become a world wide symbol. They symbolize the hopes and dreams of the entire human family and usually have a few translations for the same sentiment: ‘May Peace Prevail On Earth.’ Their originate form a Japanese philosopher, Masahisa Goi, from the 1980s.

Hasegawa Green Building

19. Hasegawa Green Building

Hasegawa Green Building is a great example of unusual and creative architecture found all over Japan. The building constructed in 2009 showcases Japanese ecological architecture. Its currently a headquarters for a tech company: モバイルコンピューティング推進コンソーシアム(MCPC).

Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点, Shibuya sukuranburu kōsaten)

20. Shibuya Crossing (渋谷スクランブル交差点, Shibuya sukuranburu kōsaten)

A sight that must be observed during rush hour. The Shibuya Crossing is located in one of the busiest parts of Tokyo and as many as 3,000 people can cross at once. It’s the busiest crosswalk in the world.

Rickshaws (人力車)

21. Rickshaws (人力車)

Also called a pedicab, these 2 wheel vehicles were invented in Japan in 1869. It became a popular and cheap mode of transport during a time of huge technological growth in Japan.

1000 paper crane wish, (千羽鶴 Senbazuru)

22. Paper Crane Wish (千羽鶴 Senbazuru)

A legend says that if one folds a thousand paper cranes (千羽鶴 Senbazuru), they will be granted a wish from the gods. The cranes can be found in shrines around the city and are strung together with string.

5 Gallons Bar

23. 5 Gallons Bar

This extra quirky pub is located towards the end of the Golden Gai. This fantastic pub is filled with eccentric decor and even has an English Menu. They are so beloved they have another diner style location.

Benkei Fly Fishing Club (東京フライフィッシング＆カントリークラブ)

24. Benkei Fly Fishing Club (東京フライフィッシング＆カントリークラブ)

A club full of fish lovers. They stock large mouth bass in the Benkei Moat which used to protect the castle. Surround by a buzzing city full of cars and noise. This part of the city is a peaceful place to connect with nature.

Keep Travel Funky.