The Lemon Tree
  • Home
  • About
    • Work with Me
    • Partners
  • Blog
  • Books
  • Photo Gallery
    • Photo Journey
  • Contact

a feel good travel blog

10 Must-Visit Places & Spaces in Berchtesgaden, Germany

1/31/2018

5 Comments

 
Picture
Berchtesgaden, Germany is a majestic village that will forever hold a place in my heart. After surviving World War Two, my family lived here, working at a displacement camp before immigrating to the United States in 1951. Rediscovering my roots brought tears to my eyes and light to my soul. Visiting Berchtesgaden is an easy day trip from Salzburg and a doable day trip from Munich. 

Whether you visit for a day or overnight, these are some of the best places and spaces to visit. 

Get a Bird's Eye View
This tiny town originated in 1120AD when the Augustaner Monks built a small church, which expanded to the monastery. The village sits on a hill and an indiscreet trail climbs the side of the town. It's not a designated trail but rather follow the tiny road up the hill eventually to an open green space that overlooks the town as seen in the image above. 
Picture
German War Graves Cemetery 
War memorials are commonly seen throughout Germany, and this cemetery is dedicated to the German men who risked their lives for the "Vaterland" in World War One and Two. Meandering  the graveyard is an interesting experience. In one way the graveyard is beautiful and the tombstones are dressed with multitude of flowers, ivy and gold lettering. In a different light, it's astonishing to see how young these men were, some barely 18, dying for their country. In a mix of beauty and sadness, and makes one appreciate the life we have today. 
Picture
Picture
Gasthof zum Neuhaus
Take a break and enjoy an authentic German food at one of the oldest restaurants in town. Operating since 1576, Gasthof offers odds and ends of vegetarian options like potatoes, pumpkin soup, knudels and purple cabbage. During the summer, enjoy the outdoor biergarten with the opportunity to people watch.  

Hofbräuhaus Berchtesgaden
​
Operating since 1645, this historic beer hall is another hotspot for good Bavarian food and traditional German beer. Upbeat and lively, don't be surprised if you see a boatload of people dressed in lederhosen and dirndls. 
Picture
War Remembrance Mural
Located on one side of Schlossplatz is an arcade (shops) that contains a war mural. The artwork depicts a variety of scenes from the tragedy of war to young soldiers saying goodbye to their family before heading off to battle. 

Marktplatz
The central meeting point in Altstadt, enjoy a variety of souvenir shops, cafes, building facades with painted murals and historical high notes.  Operating since the village's origins in 1102AD, thousands of souls have passed, bartered and meandered these streets. Don't forget to visit, or throw a coin into, the Market Square Fountain (Marktplatz Brunnen), erected in 1558 and today, is still a popular meeting point. 
Picture
Berchtesgadener Handwerkskunst
Tucked away in a little blue building is one of the most impressive shops in town. The "hand work art" are precious wooden treasures for any and every season. From Christmas smokers to little bird whistles, everything is made and painted by hand. It's well worth window shopping even if you don't plan to buy anything. 
Picture
Obersalzberg & Hotel zum Turken
Located a short bus ride from the Berchtesgaden transport station is Obersalzberg, a place where nazi ruins and alpine beauty unite. Here Hitler's retreat, Eagle's Nest, is now a restaurant that overlooks the valley. For a few euros, enter the bunker system under the Hotel zum Turken's bunker. Down below, is a two-level museum of cellars, hidden rooms and narrow hallways that contain the dark mysteries and eerie remains of Hitler's underground bunker. 

Picture
What's your favorite place in the village? Let us know and we can add it to the list. 

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 10 Must Visit Places & Spaces in Berchtesgaden, Germany. 

​Let's Connect! 
5 Comments

10 Best Historical Sites to Visit in Vilnius, Lithuania

1/11/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Vilnius is an ancient Eastern European city filled with cultural riches and historical landmarks. It’s historic roots date back to 1323 AD with its first written mentions as the city of Vilna. Since its origins, Vilnius has transformed architectural facades, experiencing everything from medieval to commonwealth to Nazi to communistic regimes. If you have limited time in the city, check out these historical sites to depict a true sense of this capital city’s roots.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Gediminas’ Tower / Castle
This is one of the most popular sites in Vilnius, and for good reason. The Grand Duke of Lithuania, Gedeminas first built this “castle” as a wooden fortifications. In 1409, the Grand Duke Vytautas completed the brick structure, which only remains and a tower still stand today. The tower is a museum exhibiting archaeological finds of Lithuania's past. It's worth the climb, up the hill and tower, for spectacular views of old and new Vilnius. 
Picture
Church of St. Anne
This late Gothic masterpiece's historical roots remain a mystery even to this day. Rumor had it that Napoleon Bonaparte admired the church and wanted to take it  back to France in the palm of his hand. Soon, the French cavalry forces took over the church without much damage. In fact, the church hasn't changed in it's 500 year history. Look closely at the facade to discover "A" and "M" inscribed on the exterior, standing for Ave Maria or Latin Ana Mater Maria. 

Picture
Vilnius University & Library
Considered the oldest in Eastern Europe, Vilnius University was founded in 1568. Today, visitors gaze at the 16th Century facades from the central part of campus. Schedule a tour of the library that dates to 1570; the oldest and one of the largest libraries in Lithuania. Founded by the Jesuits, the library is technically nine years older than the university which opened its doors in 1579.
Picture
Literatu Street Project (Literatu Wall)
​This area once contained many bookstores and antique shops (Literatu, meaning “writers” or “authors”) in the 19th Century, but today are the artistic remains of ceramic, wooden and metal plaques of famous Lithuanian writers. The idea originated in 2008, but showcases some of the best writers and poets in history such as: Sigitas Geda, Kazys Binkis, Romain Gary, Vytautas Kernagis, Janina Degutyte, Jonas Mekas, Jurga Ivanauskaite, Antanas Skema, Paulius Sirvys, and Vincas Mykolaitis – Putinas. 
Picture
Museum of Genocide Victims - (KGB Museum)
In 1941, the Gestapo overtook this once gymnasium and transformed the building into their headquarters during the Nazi occupation. Later the Soviet Secret Police (KGB), controlled the building after the Nazis left and used this headquarter until 1991. This two-part museum showcases remnants and historical timelines of the Lithuanian's resistance against the soviets as well as cells, offices, prisons and the torture chambers. It's definitely one of the best museums in the city. 

Picture

Sexy soviet sports arena - Villanis, Lithuania #history #travel #architecture #europe #eu #culture #photoaday2015

A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on Oct 24, 2015 at 11:52am PDT

Palace on Concerts and Sports 1971
Built on the northern banks of the Neris River, this Soviet-prized piece of architecture demonstrates the power, authority and "grand-standing" ideas of what communism looked like in the Baltic states. The original plot contained Žalgiris stadium, which was the largest stadium in Lithuania, built by German POW's in 1948. The Palace closed its doors in 2004 as authorities deemed the building unsafe. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Gabi Restorant
Located nearby the historic Pilies Street, Gabi is where history, culture and good food unite. Established in 1994, the interior boasts a medieval charm, walls decorated with old keys, and tables set with wrought iron chairs. Once an old artisan's cottage is now one of the best places to experience a traditional Lithuanian meal. On a sunny day, sit in the  back alley and admire the birds and the bees flying around the flower pots, or stay cool inside the exposed brick wall eating area - the choice is yours!

Picture
Pilies Street
Pilies Street is one of the oldest and most popular streets in Old Town Vilnius. Chocked full of artisans, cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops, Pilies, meaning castle, has historical markings dating back to the 16th Century where the King's carriage and other papal legates traveled this street. In the past notable professors, noblemen and the wealthy once resided here. Pilies Street retains the old-world charm and architectural facades of ancient Vilnius.

Picture
Vilnius Cathedral & Bell Tower
The majestic early-Baroque cathedral isn't an ordinary church. It contains a variety of sculptures, valuable paintings, tombstones and even an underground area depicting Christ's crucifixion. During communist times, the cathedral closed, with its valuables stolen and rooftop sculptures of the saints were knocked down and blown up. The 57-meter tall bell tower is the city's oldest defense tower dating to the 16th and 18th Centuries created by Dutch and German masters. Nearby the bell tower are some "magical" tiles. Legend has it that if you stand on top, make a wish, spin around three times while staying on the tile, your wish will come true.  

Gate of Dawn
The city gate is one of the most important historical sites in the city. Built between 1503 and 1522 as part of a defense fortification, contains religious symbols to bless travelers and protect the city from intruders. One of the most important symbols is the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of Mercy. 

What's your favorite historical site in Vilnius?


This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 10 Best Historical Sites to Visit in Vilnius, Lithuania     
0 Comments

Learning To Live Like A Local In France

1/1/2018

1 Comment

 
Picture
Written by Guest Blogger: Cal Bailey

The internet has completely changed the way we travel. From booking a flight in a few seconds to keeping in touch with friends and family wherever we are in the world, it’s now easier than ever to navigate our way around a new country.
​

But for some, it has also taken away some of the adventure. How many of us look up a restaurant on TripAdvisor before going out, instead of walking around and discovering weird and wonderful places of our own accord?

One of the ways the travel industry has been greatly impacted is by the emergence of websites and apps that give travelers access to the sharing economy. It’s made travel more attainable, in some cases more affordable, and crucially, much easier to connect with a local community with a lot to offer.

If you like the idea of getting off the tourist trail, immersing yourself in French culture, and experiencing a local pace of life, there are a wide variety of services available to help you connect with people and experience so much more than hotels and tour guides have to offer.

What is “Sharing Economy”
In the travel industry, the sharing economy refers to peer-to-peer services in areas such as accommodation, transport, meals, and experiences. There are hundreds of websites and apps popping up aimed at helping travelers connect with local people who have something to offer, such as sharing local knowledge or renting out unused sports equipment.

France is a popular tourist destination with incredible sites and experiences, but if hotels and large guided tours aren’t your thing, here are a few services you can use to discover the country from a local point of view.

Accommodation
AirBnB is arguably one of the most popular sites for booking accommodation. From a room in someone’s house to a whole apartment, they offer great variety at - usually - cheaper prices than hotels and short-term rentals.

Renting a room through AirBnB is a great way to meet new people when you arrive in a town or city, that is, as long as the host is interested in socializing with their visitors. Some are not, and focus only on letting the room, so it can be a bit hit and miss as to how much social interaction you get.
Picture
Transport
Although train travel is a great way to get around France, it can be expensive. Carpool apps such as BlaBlaCar are making it easy to connect with drivers who are traveling to the same destination as you are. Catching a lift with them tends to be much cheaper than traveling from city to city by train, but if you don’t happen to speak the same language as the driver, you may be in for a silent journey.
Picture
Meals
French restaurants are some of the best in the world, but local foodies also have incredible, unique experiences to offer. Social dining has become a great way to access the underground food scene and connect with other people. EatWith and VizEat are great in larger cities such as Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, but you might find that smaller cities offer slim pickings.

Experiences
Wouldn’t it be great if you arrived in a big city and immediately found a group of people eager to hang out and show you the best place to grab a café au lait. Couchsurfing is a great way to meet a variety of people such as local professionals and other tourists, and you can even find hosts who offer a couch, floor or bed for free.

From walking down the Champs-Élysées chatting to a retired professor to discovering the best ice cream in Nice from a grad student’s point of view, local insiders can often take you on niche, offbeat, interesting tours that bigger operators simply don’t offer.  

Final Thoughts
The sharing economy has made it easier than ever for people and travelers around the world to connect with each other and share experiences. As sharing apps and services are still growing, they tend to work better in major cities, but they’re still a great way to reach out to people, get out of your comfort zone, and grow as a traveler.
​

Do you have any tips on how to live like a local in France? If so, comment below. We love to hear your thoughts and tips to prospective travelers. 

About The Author: Cal Bailey runs Mountain Leon - a travel blog he started after two years backpacking around the world. If you want to learn more about life on the road or tips for travelling, you can find him on MountainLeon.com
1 Comment

    Author

    Elizabeth Rae Kovar is a Fitness Trainer, Author of Finding Om, Presenter, Yogi, Vegan & lover of the World. View her portfolio at www.elizabethkovar.comor health-based blog at mindbodysoul-food.com

    Picture
    Follow
    View my profile on LinkedIn

    Archives

    January 2021
    December 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015

    Categories

    All
    Asia
    Austria
    Bali
    Camino De Santiago
    Canada
    Czech Republic
    Denmark
    England
    Estonia
    Europe
    Finland
    France
    Germany
    Greece
    Iceland
    India
    Italy
    Latvia
    Lithuania
    Mexico
    Netherlands
    Poland
    Portugal
    Scotland
    Spain
    Thailand
    Travel Photos
    Travel Shopping
    Travel Story
    Travel Tips
    USA
    Vegan Travel
    Vegan/Veg Food Travel

    RSS Feed

Proudly powered by Weebly
  • Home
  • About
    • Work with Me
    • Partners
  • Blog
  • Books
  • Photo Gallery
    • Photo Journey
  • Contact