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a feel good travel blog

Best Cultural Sites and Landmarks in Vilnius, Lithuania

4/20/2020

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Vilnius is the perfect Baltic state destination for travelers who crave art, culture and history. The Old Town is dense and easy to walk and explore for hours (or days). Most cultural spots are found in Old Town, so get ready to explore a mix of modern and historical culture in this part of town. 
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Cultural Streets and Neighborhoods
One of the most popular streets in Vilnius is Pilies Street, which features a variety of artisans, cafes and street side art markets. If you're looking for locally made paintings or jewelry, spend plenty of time here. 

For the more bohemian, hipster cultural neighborhood, visit Uzupis. Known as the "free thinking neighborhood," this republic operates by it's own constitution and was created on April fools Day in 1997. Wanderers will certainly discover vegan cafes, bookstores, art galleries, tons of graffiti and boutique shops. The neighborhood now homes over seven thousand residents, most of which are artists, intellects and musicians, and once homed the Jewish community prior to the Holocaust. 

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View Vilnius from Above at the St. John's Church
Most people don't realize that the full name of this church is, "'Church of St Johns, St John the Baptist and St John the Apostle and Evangelist." Founded in 1387, this structure stood for hundreds of years before the construction of the 16th Century university.  The freestanding campanile is the tallest structure in Vilnius, which features an awe-inspiring view of the city scape and pink rooftops scattered throughout Old Town. The surrounding university is known as the oldest university in Eastern Europe. 

Vilnius in total has 28 churches, some of which are no longer in operation. If you have kilometers to burn, walk the Calvary Way, a pilgrimage dedicated to the suffering of Christ. 

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Gediminas’ Tower / Castle
This is one of the more popular historical and tourist attractions, and for good reason, it is another popular lookout spot to see Vilnius from a bird's eye view. 

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. 

Nearby the castle and tower is the fertile, lush oasis, Bernadine Garden.  
Established in 1469 by Bernadine Monks, millions of people have walked this park throughout it's history.  Beautiful in all seasons, spring and summer is a surefire way to see locals sachet through the treelined trails. Many people don't realize that the oldest oak tree of Old Town sits in the park. The park also features cafes for guests to sit, sip and relax during the afternoon hours. 
Discover more historical sites on my other blog, 10 Best Historical Sites to Visit in Vilnius, Lithuania
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Joining all the notable Lithuanian writers at #writers wall in Villanis #author #book #poet #travel #europe #travelmemoir #culture #photoaday2015

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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. â€‹
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Cats and mushroom potato pancakes :) cat cafe - Vilnius,Lithuania #vegan #vegetarian #vegantravel #food #travel #nutrition #culture #photoaday2015 #eu #europe #cat #cafe #coffeeshop

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Cat Cafe Vilnius — Kačių kavinė
Experience a bit of modern Vilnius at the local Cat Cafe. Whether you want a coffee served with a kitty cookie, or lunch, be sure to experience the best of modern cuisine with your new best kitten friend. The cafe features a variety of resident cats you'll find sleeping, playing or begging for treats. This place is vegetarian and vegan friendly. 


Graffiti Pier
For another look at modern Vilnius, explore the graffiti around town. Graffiti has no specific location, but most know Graffiti Pier as the main hub to view street art. Here, graffiti is encouraged and legal with the government. Keep updated with the legal painting zones here. 

Let's Connect! 


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 Best Cultural Sites and Landmarks in Vilnius, Lithuania.
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Top 7 Food Markets in Barcelona to Eat like a Local

2/26/2020

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Sure the architecture is beautiful and the sun is nice, but most people visit Spain to experience the food. Quality and fresh food is a part of Spanish culture, and the Catalans are no exception. The city itself features 39 food markets so it's hard to know, which ones are the best to visit. Some are better and bigger than others, and most tourists will stay in certain zones, which makes various food markets more accessible than others. 

When hungry and looking for something fresh and something cheap, be sure to check out these local favorite food markets. 
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Mercat de Galvany
Located in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, the posher part of town, this market offers the finer foods in life. Different than most markets in the city, here foodies discover everything from sushi to charcuteries to organic produce. Smaller than most markets, it unfortunately is not one of the cheapest markets, but certainly offers a variety of local and international eats. 


Mercat de Santa Caterina 
Known as the second market, Santa Caterina is near the Barcelona Cathedral in the El Born area near the Gothic Quarter. Tourists and locals visit here, but is not flooded with tourists like La Boqueria. Most people recognize this market thanks to the wavy and vibrant roof, which looks similar to the skin of a mutli-colored lizard. Like every other market, one finds a variety of produce, seafood, cheese and tapas stalls. Many recommend Bar Joan. 
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La Boqueria
This is the most notable and popular food market in Barcelona. Located off the famous La Rambla Boulevard, some claim its overcrowded with tourists. Don't let tourists shy you away though. It's a tourist attraction, not a tourist trap. Many local chefs order their produce and meat from this market, making it the most prominent market in town. For a market, the prices are higher here than at most in town. Opened since 1840, guests discover a variety of produce, spice and candy stalls as well as cafe, tapas, charcuteries and juice counters. Some claim El Quim de la Boqueria is the most popular place to eat. 

Mercat de la Barceloneta
Located near the waterfront, this market is frequently visited by locals looking for the fresh catch of the day. The local neighborhood once housed and operated many of the city's fishing industry. Expect to hear lots of chatter between locals searching for the best seafood in town. The vibe is as "neighborhoody" as one can get in the city. 
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Mercat de Sant Antoni
This market emerged in 1882 satisfying locals with fresh food for over a century  After a near decade of renovations, this market finally reopened to the public in 2018. Known as the next big thing, the market features 235 stalls, of which 53 are fresh produce stands. Like La Boqueria, many people visit for the tapas and fresh fish. On Sundays, there is a book market that surrounds the building and some stalls also sell trinkets and other small things. 
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Mercat de la Llibertat
​Small and intimate, this is another market to experience the "neighborhood" vibe. Seafood and produce stands are here as well as fresh food. Inside there is a Bonpreu super market so if looking to compliment your makeshift lunch with cheap groceries, be sure to check out this market (less impressive than the others). 

Mercat de Hostafrancs

Known as the most eclectic in Barcelona, if looking for some yummy treats...and maybe a cheap dress...shop here. Besides traditional food and produce stalls, outside the market are stalls offering plenty of household bargain buys. From inexpensive clothing to books, toys and stationary goods, this market is chocked full of locals trying to find the best deal in town. Some recommend to eat the Bar de Mercat d'Hostafrancs.

What's your favorite food stall or market in Barcelona?

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 Top 7 Food Markets in Barcelona to Eat like a Local.

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Must-Visit Historical Attractions in Nice, France

2/25/2020

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Nice, France is an ancient French town residing along the French Riviera on the Mediterranean Ocean. Discovered by the Greeks, conquered by the Romans and influenced by the Italians, Nice has an unusual historical past, distinguished by a variety of architectural styles originating from different periods. Over the Centuries of it's turbulent history, today, Nice is a calm and quiet town visited by tourists and artists alike. Between the ocean and the Old Town, there is plenty of beauty and history  to discover in Nice. 
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Old Town  of Nice 
The Old Town of Nice (Vieille Ville), also called Old Nice (Vieux Nice) sits nearby the Mediterranean just below Castle Hill. Old Town is where most people spend their time and for good reason. The streets comprise of old tenements, churches, plazas and squares filled with street side cafes and shops. It is easy to get lost in the narrow, shadowed, cobblestone streets that meander around town. Besides an array of shopping and culinary adventures, this is the area to discover some of the most vibrant buildings, displaying a mix of warm and cool-colored hues.  

Some major points of interest include: 

La Place Rossetti - The most notable square in Nice that features the architectural wonder, the Nice Cathedral. This is one of the most notable and bustling squares in Nice, and for a good reason, since it is one of the most picturesque and represents the life and culture of Nice. 

False Gate - The marble gate is the gateway to the newer part of the city. 

The Cathedral of St. Reparata - This 17th Century cathedral's dome is visible from Castle Hill. Inside are the remains of Saint Reparata, the patron saint of Nice. 
 
Other churches exist and various markets pop up at times in Old Town. It is easy to get "lost" to explore the various shops, cafes, churches and relics. Travelers find a variety of French favorite shops from antique stores to French soaps and spices to tablecloths and handmade aprons. 

I recommend a half day to experience the best of Old Town. 
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​Placa Massena - Built in the 1840's, this plaza is the jewel of Nice. As seen in the image below, this is one of the main plazas, which also attach to various Old Town streets. The plaza consists of various bronze statue water fountains and art pieces along a checkered, tiled ground. Look up and discover seven statues propped upon high poles. Each pole symbolizes the continents on our planet.

Norte Dame Church

Located in city center is the largest church in Nice, the Norte Dame. Similar to the Norte Dame in Paris, this church was built after Nice became French between 1864-1868. It became the first modern religious structure, but adheres to relics of the past with scenes from the Assumption, featuring 19th Century stained glass windows and two square towers. 
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Castle Hill 
Besides Old Town, Castle Hill is another must-visit attraction in Nice not only for the fantastic views, but to discover Nice's ancient past. This hill divides the seaside of Nice into two parts, the eastern part with the port and the western part with Old Town. The castle and the cathedral was first mentioned in the 11th Century where these buildings were once the center of town. 

Before this, the Greeks lived in Nice, calling their 4th Century settlement Nikaia. Walking up Castle Hill one notices the remains of Greek artwork as well as the defensive walls. The castle was demolished in 1706 thanks to the commands of King Louis XIV, and the ruins are still visible today.

Everyday at noon a cannon fires on the top of the hill. Legend has it Sir Thomas Coventry-More, firing his cannon, notified his wife to come back from the city center for lunch
. There are two historic cemeteries to explore on the top of the hill, one being Jewish, the other Catholic. On top of the hill are two panoramic view points, one overlooking Old Town and the other overlooking the port. 

Cimiez 
This neighborhood in Nice contains the ruins of the Roman town, 
Cemenelum. Founded in the 1st Century, this area was a staging post for Roman troops in the Alpes Maritime region, which later became the capital. Ruins include Roman baths, amphitheater and arena. 

The area was also once visited by beloved artists such as Matisse. The Museum Matisse houses the artist's work, belongings and historical artifacts.  Today, people roam the neighborhood to admire Belle Époque architecture. Visit The grand Boulevard de Cimiez to marvel at the luxury historic hotels built throughout the Victorian Era. One of the most notable is the 1908 Grand Hotel. 

Discover more beauty and charm at the Park Arènes and Cimiez Monastery, which has homed Franciscan monks since the 16th Century. The Cimiez cemetery includes burial remains of Matisse, French painter, Raoul Dufy, Russian and British diplomats as well as the 
1937 Nobel Prize winner for Literature, Roger Martin du Gard.
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La Promenade de Anglais 
One cannot visit Nice without walking on the famous seaside footpath. According to the Nice Tourism website, "
Originally a footpath no more than 6 feet wide, it was widened by an Englishman, Reverend Lewis Way, at his expense in 1820 and the local population soon dubbed it ‘Chemin des Anglais’. In 1931, when it was given its final form with two roadways separated by a central reservation planted with palm trees, the ‘Prom’ was inaugurated by the Duke of Connaught, one of Queen Victoria’s sons."

Le Negresco
As seen in the image, this Belle-Epoque is the only landmark in Nice that is a hotel and a museum. Built in 1912, the hotel features 121 rooms and 24 suites, each decorated in their own style ranging from modern art to Louis XIII style.  The museum contains five centuries of art history and rated a five-star hotel. Some claim this is one of the most prominent hotels worldwide. 

What's your favorite historical spot in Nice, France? 

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 Must-Visit Historical Attractions in Nice, France.

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The Best Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Edinburgh, Scotland

10/15/2019

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To discover Scotland's past, one must visit Edinburgh, the epicenter of many (tragic) historic events. Whether in search of ghosts, literary inspirations or wartime landmarks, Edinburgh is filled with plenty of stories and sites of it's ancient past. Old Town is where it all began, but even in New Town there is plenty of history to explore. Traces of human history in Edinburgh date back to 8500BC, and experienced various settlements during the Iron and Bronze Age. From ancient to recent history, here are the top historical sites to explore in Edinburgh. 
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Discover the Royal Mile and Castle Rock
This is the heart of Edinburgh. With so many unique and historical sites, you can't help but experience the true essence of Scottish culture on this street. Start at the castle and slowly make way discovering each alleyway. Trust me, there's something to be explored in each one. So many people zip up and down and spend time at the tourist shops without actually exploring or reading the plaques on the wall about what once happened in that spot. 

Edinburgh Castle
Nestled on the top of the hill, overlooking the New and Old Town, if there is one thing to do in Edinburgh you must visit the castle. A bit pricey, but not horrible, this is one place to spend money on the entrance fee. Entry fees are now 19.50 pounds at the gate (online tickets are cheaper), but the views, history, sites and free gift shop whiskey tasting pays off. There are not many places in the world where you can stand in the dining hall where a beheading execution took place over an argument. Isn't life (and history) crazy? 

This historic fortress dates back to the 12th Century since the reign of David I. The Edinburgh castle has been part of various sieges in 1640, 1650, 1689 and 1745. The most popular involvements in historical conflicts include the 14th Century War of Scottish Independence and the Jacobite Rising if 1745.   
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The Grassmarket District
This vibrant neighborhood was once home to horses and cattle between the 14th and 19th Century. The area served as a marketplace for buying and selling livestock.  Unbeknownst to most travelers, this district was known for its public executions. Between 1661-1688, over 100  people died during "The Killing Time" for the conflicts between Presbyterian Covenanter movement and the forces of King Charles II and James VII. 

One street travelers must explore is Cowgate Street. This street led to the Grassmarket and is common to see cows plastered on the facade of the buildings. The street earned its title in 1428 as cows once walked this street in the direction of the market. The Cowgate once housed noble families and city counsel. On the free tour of Edinburgh, the guide mentioned that this district was once covered in human waste because the locals would dump their buckets onto the street, leaving more than ankle-deep of human urine and feces on the roadside. Between 1750-1950, the area became a slum, overcrowded with many impoverished people. 
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Greyfriars Kirkyard
This 16th Century cemetery lies near the Southern edge of Old Town. At night during the free ghost tour, the guide talks about spooky events and prominent headstones that are relevant to Edinburgh's past. On a lighter note, the Greyfriars Bobby is a statue of the loyal dog who guarded his master's, renowned philosopher David Hume, grave for 13 years. 
Other notable graveyards include Old Calton Burial Grounds and Canongate Kirk. 

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Scott Monument
Sir Walter Scott was a popular Scottish poet, novelist, playwright, historian and biographer. In the mid 1790’s, Scott became interested in German Romanticism, Gothic novels and Scottish ballads. In 1796, he published his first pieces, The Work and William and Helen,  a translation of German Romantic Balladeer G.A. Bürger. Scott became one of Scotland’s most profound poets and writers using strands of novel-writing techniques, which he fused with his interest in Scottish history and antiquarian lore. Scott died in 1832, and the city congregated to agree on a monument dedicated to this prolific writer. In 1836, the city launched an architectural competition and what you see today are the results from George Meikle Kemp’s winning bid.
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The Writer’s Museum & Makar’s Court
The Writer’s Museum is free and dedicated to Scottish writers, specifically Robert Burns (1759-1796); Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832); and Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894). Special exhibits and collections frequently visit the museum. Explore a variety of rare books, portraits and writing desks. Check for hours as the museum is closed on Monday and Tuesdays beginning October 1, 2016. 

Makar’s Court is the area surrounding the museum. Keep your eyes peeled on the ground for famous quotes etched in stone, some of which date back to 14th Century writers.
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Heart of Midlothian 
Sitting a stone's throw away from St. Gile's Cathedral is the Heart of Midlothian, a series of granite setts shaped into a heart. What seems like a normal landmark is actually a spitting corridor steeped in ritual. This was once the administrative center of town, prison and a place of execution. The heart lays at the former entrance doors of the Old Tolbooth prison, and the brass markers indicate where the building once stood. This 14th Century prison earned quit a reputation, one to be avoided that is, due to its cold-hearted and vile nature of killing innocent souls to petty thieves. 

St. Gile's Cathedral
Founded in 1124, this church was the focal  point of the Scottish Reformation during the 16th Century. The church has quit a historical resume, and more information about it's past is found at the church's website. 

Discover more about Scotland, and check out other blogs about Edinburgh! 

A Literary Tour of Edinburgh: A Book Lover's Haven
9 Cheap (and Free) Things to Do in Edinburgh, Scotland
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Vegan in Edinburgh, Scotland: Himalaya Cafe

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 The Best Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Edinburgh. 
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Cheap and Free Things to Do in Strasbourg, France

10/8/2019

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Traveling on a budget is easier in some countries and cities than others. France features a mix of affordable towns and expensive cities. Regardless of where you go, it is easy to spend a pretty penny while traveling. If looking to explore Strasbourg on foot and on the cheap, here is the best way to spend your time in Strasbourg. 
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Historic Petite France 
Walking through the Petite France quarter is like taking a walk through a historic fairy tale. It certainly is the prettiest part in town, and also the most visited with tourists. Shops, cafes, canals and churches, you'll find anything and everything to do. It's an idyllic location to enjoy a latte or a simple French pastry outside of one of the half-timbered homes.

​Must see is this quarter: Tanner's House, Saint Thomas Church, The Covered Bridges and Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes.


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Strasbourg one of my favorite cities in □□ #france #travel #traveler #traveling #travelblog #travelblogger #wanderer #wanderlust #travelwriter #tourist #tourism #traveltheworld #architecture #bike #bicycle #wunderschön #europe #eu #lifestyle #travelphotography #travelpic #travelgram #cafe #strasbourg

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Place Kleber
Place Kleber is the main central square in Strasbourg. It's a photogenic square that is also an ideal setting for people watching. During the Christmas season, the city erects a 30-meter Christmas tree from the Vosges Mountains in the southwest region of the square. What makes this tree special is that locals leave gifts for the poor.
  
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Walking the Perimeter of Old Town
Walking along the Fosse du Faux Rempart and the L'Ill River is an excellent way to explore the beauty and culture of Strasbourg. Walking in Strasbourg is like biking in Amsterdam. Everyone does it. It doesn't matter where you start your walk, but along the way you'll see the oldest areas and most prominent sites of Strasbourg. A cheaper area to eat is in the Republique neighborhood.  
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Along the walk visitors discover a myriad of old bridges and historic architectural structures, which are now either government buildings or museums. Take your time walking the along the water as you never know what architectural wonder or small park you may run into. I recommend 1.5- 2 hours to walk the entire distance.  
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Explore the Bridges
Strasbourg is a city of bridges that connects Old Town to the land surrounding the river and canals. Whether large or petite, Strasborg has over twenty bridges. The green iron bridge was seen on the perimeter walk along the Fosse du Faux Rempart. 

The most popular and notable bridge are the "Ponts Couverts" or The Covered Bridges. This bridge features three bridges along the River Ill, with each protected by a massive square tower. The three bridges cross the four channels of the river that flows into the historic Petite France quarters.  Construction began in 1230 with its intentions to serve as a protection mechanism. In 1928, the bridges and towers were classified as a historic monument. 

Some other prominent bridges include: Pont du Corbeau, Pont de Saverne, Pont Royal or Gallia, Pont de la Dordogne. 
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Cathedral of Norte Dame in Strasbourg #france #travel #traveler #traveling #travelblog #travelblogger #wanderer #wanderlust #travelwriter #tourist #tourism #traveltheworld #architecture #jesuschrist #jesus #wunderschön #europe #eu #lifestyle #travelphotography #travelpic #travelgram #christian #strasbourg #church

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Cathedral of Norte Dame in Strasbourg
A replica of the Norte Dame in Paris, this is a must see especially after the Paris fires in 2019. This outstanding Gothic masterpiece attracts thousands of tourists every week. Construction began in 1015 and entirely completed with the 142 meter Gothic spire in 1439. Victor Hugo adored the cathedral stating it to be, "a skillful combination of monumental size and delicateness." 

The interior is just as exquisite as the exterior. Intricate details on the facade as well as geometric stained glass windows are only some of the details to admire. Don't forget to watch the astronomical clock that sits inside near the back of the cathedral. The cathedral was built for religious, cultural and symbolic reasons. Today the church is Catholic, but once homed Protestants under the Reformation in 1521. 
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My favorite #carrots in the world! When in France and looking to save your budget (and eat plant based) find carrot râpées at the local markets. I must find a recipe for this! □ #vegan #veganfood #vegantravel #veganfoodporn #glutenfreevegan #travel #traveler #traveling #wanderlust #wanderer #food #foodie #foodporn #slowfood #mindfuleating #frenchie #france #strawberry #thenewhealthy #foodtravel #travelblogger #travelstagram #healthyeating #goodfood #veganfoodshare #vegetarian

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Grocery Shop Your Lunch
Nothing is more french than a stuffing a baguette with a slice of cheese. Whether you prefer a mild cheese like gouda, or something stinky like the French, just know that grocery shopping in France is affordable, but also romantic. Sitting on a bench, admiring the view and consuming a typical french lunch for an hour is nothing but idyllic. The larger grocery stores are cheaper than the smaller markets, but it is possible to eat lunch with about five Euros. Baguettes are as cheap as 0.55 cent Euros and my favorite side salad is the carrot rapees. France is a healthy country so it is possible to consume healthy food on the cheap, which is opposite of the USA. 

What's your favorite thing to do in Strasbourg? 

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 Cheap and Free Things to Do in Strasbourg, France.
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Must Visit World War II Sites in Warsaw, Poland

10/1/2019

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The Eastern European countries suffered greatly during World War II. Warsaw was no exception; in fact, this city suffered some of the most burdens during the war of all the Eastern countries. The Warsaw Uprising has strong connections to Poland's historic roots, which kept its country and culture in tact during a time of death and destruction. If searching for a bit of WWII history, be sure to visit these sites. 
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Warsaw Uprising Museum
​If visiting Warsaw, the Warsaw Uprising Museum is a must to discover the hardship of the Polish during World War II. The Polish Underground Resistance initiated the uprising on August 1, 1944 as part of an anti-Nazi operation. This started a 63 day struggle of the Warsaw underground against the Nazis. Outside one experiences various images and paintings dedicated to those who died and the names of the people who served on the marble wall. The underground did not have enough weapons and most sacrificed their lives for the belief in saving Warsaw. Over 200,000 Polish citizens died. 

Warsaw was one of the most damaged cities during World War II, so much of what you see today in Old Town was rebuilt post war. Inside the museum, one sees images of the destruction as well as exploring various artillery used by the Poles. The Nazis destroyed about 85% of Warsaw including prominent cultural sites and centers such as St. John's Cathedral, the medieval Old Town and the Royal Castle.
Location: Grzybowska 79 Street
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World War II Sites and Markings in Old Town
Throughout Old Town travelers notice a variety of plaques and markings that signify "special events" that occurred, or people who lived in these buildings that sacrificed their life during World War Two. Fragments of the Jewish Ghetto wall is marked on the ground with a plaque that outlines a former wall  between the ghetto and the "Aryan" part of town.  

The three best known parts of the ghetto are in the courtyards in 55 Sienna and 62 Złota Streets, and at 11 Waliców Street.

Waliców Street on Wola district contains the now abandon and ruined Jewish tenement house XIX Century. The Nazis bombed the house after the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. The house was part of the Jewish ghetto between 1940 to 1942. Residents of the house included the popular Jewish poet, Władysław Szlengel and an opera singer, photographer and journalist Menachem Kipnis.
Location: Waliców 14 Street and Waliców 9/11 Street

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Mausoleum of Struggle and Martyrdom 
Located in the Ministry of Education, this now museum once housed the headquarters of the Gestapo during Nazi occupation. This building was used as an interrogation center and the site where many Polish people were killed and tortured. Here mass executions also took place during the Warsaw Uprising. The basement stays to its original form where visitors see the many writings on the wall of past prisoners. 

The entry ticket also allows access to the The Pawiak Prison

Location: Aleja Szucha 25

The Pawiak Prison
Opened in 1836 as a political prison, the Russians created this prison who occupied Polish territory until 1915. The Nazis used this prison for the same purposes and some 100,000 Polish people died here. Approximately 37,000 were shot onsite and some 60,000 died in concentration camps. The Germans bombed the prison during the Uprising in 1944.
 

The Tomb of an Unknown Solider
Warsaw dedicated this tomb to the soldiers who passed during World War I. During World War II, the Nazis bombed this tomb during the  bomb raids in December 1944, which was rebuilt after the war. 

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 Must Visit World War II Sites in Warsaw, Poland.
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10 Cultural Things You Must Do & See in Warsaw, Poland

9/12/2019

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Warsaw, Poland's capital city, a place chocked full of history and culture. From cheap eats to fine art to discovering the impact of World War II on the Polish people, one discovers a bit of history amidst modern Polish living. When in Warsaw, skip the new part of the city and head to Old Town where much of the history lives today. 
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Warsaw Uprising Museum
​If visiting Warsaw, the Warsaw Uprising Museum is a must to discover the hardship of the Polish during World War II. The Polish Underground Resistance initiated the uprising on August 1, 1944 as part of an anti-Nazi operation. Warsaw was one of the most damaged cities during World War II, so much of what you see today was rebuilt post war. Inside the museum, one sees images of the destruction as well as exploring various artillery used by the Poles. Outside one experiences various images and paintings dedicated to those who died and the names of the people who served on the marble wall.  
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The Mermaid Statue
The mermaid is the symbol and protector of Warsaw. In fact the name Warsaw relates to the mermaid and it's story is quit a unique story. In Polish Warsaw is Warszawa. Wikipedia states, "Folk etymology attributes the city name to a fisherman, Wars, and his wife, Sawa. According to legend, Sawa was a mermaid living in the Vistula River with whom Wars fell in love."

According to Atlas Obscura, "The legend of the Warsaw mermaid, or “syrenka” in Polish, is a relatively simple one. She originated from the Baltic Sea, where (according to some versions of the story) she had a twin sister, the famous Little Mermaid of Copenhagen. The syrenka swam up the Vistula River until she was at what is now Warsaw’s old town. There, she saw some fishermen catching fish and decided to meddle with their nets and free the catch. 

The fishermen were angry at the meddlesome creature and tried to catch it, but once they saw the mermaid and heard her siren song they could not harbor any hate for her any longer. Later, the mermaid was captured by a rich merchant who wanted to haul her off as some kind of prize. But the fishermen would not have it and freed her from the greedy man’s clutches. The mermaid was thankful and promised to protect the fishermen and their homes from then on. From that moment, she became the city’s guardian and protector in times of need."

A copy of the statue resides in Old Town Market Place. The original statue was removed due to vandalism. 

And if he's still alive, the ires an old man who feeds pigeons every afternoon. Several times I've gone back to Warsaw and still found him there, living a simple, joyful life of feeding pigeons. 

Old Town Market Square
This square was once the epicenter of commercial life in Warsaw. This square is the most historic area in Old Town, and surrounded by Baroque and Renaissance facades that were once merchant's homes. Although post war replicas of what once stood, this square was rebuilt to it's original form. It is not uncommon to find artists in the square selling paintings and drawings. 
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Shop for Handcrafted Goods
Poland is known for its amber jewelry. The Baltic region is the largest known deposit of amber, which makes the Baltic amber very special and "priceless" as the amber dates back to 44 million years ago. Amber shops are found throughout Old Town and other more affordable handcrafted goods can be found from independent makers who "set up shop" in and around the Royal Castle. 
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Exploring the Traditional Cuisine
One cannot go to Poland without trying the traditional Polish food. From borscht to pirogies to cherry vodka to cabbage salads, there is an array of local food that is even suitable for vegetarians.

My favorite restaurant is Ceprownia located near the Warsaw University and nearby Old Town. The prices are affordable and the food is as authentic as the old lady in the kitchen. Don't forget to try the cherry vodka, which one can find at any traditional bar or Polish restaurant in town. 

If searching for a cheap meal, try one of the milk bars such as Prasowy, Bar Bambino or 
Wegetariański Bar Mleczny.
 
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Castle Square
In the middle of the castle square is a statue of the man, Zygmunt III Waza, the person responsible for Warsaw becoming Poland's capital city. In 1596, Poland's capital switched from Krakow to Warsaw, which became the center of Renaissance Europe's largest empire. The 22-meter high monument erected in 1664. 

​Here you'll also discover plenty of shops and streetside cafes. The cafes are not the cheapest in town, but you pay for what you get and travelers will pay for the ambience, which is hard to beat! 

National Museum in Warsaw
Founded in 1862, this museum contains over 830,000 works of art from local and international artists. Art lovers explore exquisite pieces from Polish masterpieces such as
Jan Matejko and Wilhelm Sasnal.  
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World War II Sites and Markings
Throughout Old Town travelers notice a variety of plaques and markings that signify "special events" that occurred, or people who lived in these buildings that sacrificed their life during World War Two. Fragments of the Jewish Ghetto wall is marked on the ground with a plaque that outlines a former wall  between the ghetto and the "Aryan" part of town.  The three best known parts of the ghetto are in the courtyards in 
55 Sienna and 62 Złota Streets, and at 11 Waliców Street.
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Nicholas Copernicus Monument
The founder of modern astronomy comes from the Polish town, Toruń. The large statue stands before the Staszic Palace, the seat of the Polish Academy of Sciences and surrounded by the bronze Copernicus solar system underneath. This statue has quit the historic past. Erected in 1830, during the second world war, the Nazis placed a plaque on the statue, claiming Copernicus was German. On February 11, 1942, a boy scout called Alek Dawidowski snuck around the guards and removed the plaque. Obviously, the Nazis were not happy and decided to hide the statue. 

According to Wiki, "In response, on 21 February, the Germans moved Warsaw's statue of Jan Kiliński to the National Museum in Warsaw. Dawidowski and his comrades retaliated by placing a large graffito on the Museum ("People of Warsaw—I am here. Jan Kiliński") and on 13 March adding a new plaque to the Copernicus monument: "For removal of the Kiliński statue, I am extending the winter by two months. Kopernik."

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 Cultural Things You Must Do and See in Warsaw.

Check out our other travel blogs about Poland: 
Historical Sites You Can't Miss in WarsawDiscovering Krakow's Jewish Culture & Heritage
A Traveler's Guide to the Best Cultural Spots in Krakow, Poland
​
12 Must-Visit Historical Sites in Krakow, Poland
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12 Historical Sites in Hamburg, Germany

9/5/2019

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Hamburg's history begins in the 9th Century as a mission settlement to convert the Saxons. Since the dawn of the city, Hamburg has always been a trading city. Located near the sea, the Hamburg ports gave this city its identity, one that is based on water, commerce and war. 
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Start the historical tour from the central train station, Hauptbahnhof to discover a myriad of historical sites, landmarks and events. The train station itself opened in 1906, to replace four other separate stations, and today is one of the busiest stations in Germany. During World War II, the station received damage from the World War II allied bomb raiding on November 9. 1941. 

Kunsthalle
Nearby the hauptbahnhof (central train station), is one of Germany's most prominent art museums. In my opinion, Berlin has the best, but Hamburg is worth the visit. Explore a mix of fine art and modernism with old and new timer artists such as Rembrandt, Goya and Canelleto, Picasso, Warhol and Kircher.

​
Jungfernsteig
As seen in the above image, Jungfernsteig is a waterfront promenade on the Binnenlaster. On land, explore a myriad of shops and department stores, cafes and independent shops in historical, Neoclassical buildings. The name, Jungfernsteig came about as a tradition of wealthy Hanseaten families who flaunted their unmarried daughters for eligible bachelors.
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Chilehaus
Speicherstadt
This warehouse district is a popular place to wander and admire meandering canals, graffiti bridges, historic architecture and locals living their daily life. UNESCO claimed this a world heritage site on July 5, 2015 alongside with the Kontorhaus and Chilehaus displays the largest warehouses in the world. One may consider that the name Chilehaus is a unique name for a German building. And that is true. Built in the 1920's by a local shipping magnate, Henry Sloman, one of the richest in Hamburg, made his fortune trading saltpeter with Chile. Interesting fact: the Chilehaus contains 4.8 million grey bricks.  

Poggenmühlen-Brücke
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Located in Speicherstadt, this bridge is a hot spot for marvelous photos of the warehouse district. The bridge itself is nothing spectacular besides being pieces of metal floating above water, but most images you see of this district come from the bridge. Sunset is a popular time where the sun reflects off the brick and stone. igniting golden rays of warm hues painted alongside the brick. 
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Fischmarkt
Located in the 19th Century Fischauktionhalle, is the infamous fish market. Opening on Sundays at  5:00am, the market is a mix of everyday Joes and drunkards who stumble from the Reeperbahn for some early morning grub and live music. The fish market originated in 1703 and features fresh catches from the Northern Sea as well as flowers, coffee and other market goods. 

Planten un Blomen
Hamburg like most European cities are a concrete jungle dotted with several urban parks. if visiting one park, planten un blomen should mark the top of your list. The park features the Old Botanical Garden, which was planted on the city wall in 1821. The park and garden is 47-hectares featuring plenty of ponds, green space, greenhouses and botanical plantations. 

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Landungsbrücken Piers​
The historical waterfront and piers attract locals and tourists alike. The two green-domed towers mark the 205-meter terminal between the lower port area of the fischmarkt and the reeperbahn. Landungsbrücken translates to 'landing bridges' and was once a pier for steam ships. Today, tourists take boat tours or just admire the bustling waterside. 
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Sankt Pauli - St. Pauli District & the Reeperbahn
A district where, sin, sex and prostitution thrives, the young and the old come here to "make a party." Alive day and night, there some bouts of normalcy exist with clothing shops, restaurants and art galleries. Although the seediness is controlled, this neighborhood has a history of dancing with the devil. As a port city, sailors have long come to the shores of Hamburg and made way to the St. Pauli District for entertainment after many months at sea. After a consistent amount of time of landlocked mermaids luring sailors of the sea in between the sheets, this is how the red light district originated.  ​

Take the magical tour to see where the Beatles played and ignited the start of their career between 1960-1962. 
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St. Michael Church
One cannot visit an ancient German city without visiting one of the most prominent churches in town. Located in Altstadt, is the city's most famous Baroque church. Built in the 17th Century, the church features a 132-meter dark cupola at the top of the tower, which is visible from any part of town. The church has had its fair share of high and low moments. In 1750, the tower was struck by lightening, causing the tower to fall and crumble. The tower was also damaged by a fire in 1912, and luckily "avoided" extensive damage from World War II. The church's crypt holds the remains of 2,425 bodies including composer Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach. The 106-meter observation deck is open and features a stunning view of the harbor. ​​
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Elbe Tunnel
In 1911, when the Elbe tunnel opened, there was nothing like this in the world. This 426-meter tunnel was created to provide a more direct route for dock workers from St. Pauli and Landungsbrücken  to the southern banks of the Elbe River. In the 1970's the tunnel opened as a tourist attraction, and today visitors and locals use the tunnel for transportation and to admire the Art Deco beauty. 


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 12 Historical Sites in Hamburg, Germany.

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Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Warsaw

8/13/2019

1 Comment

 
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Warsaw, like any other European city, is steeped in history. Most people think of Warsaw's history rooting to World War II and communism, but often forget about its medieval roots and intelligent minds like Copernicus, that made Warsaw what it is. Sadly, Warsaw got destroyed during the war, so in Old Town many of the facades you see were actually rebuilt post war, but in its original form. 

If wanting to understand Warsaw's past, be sure to explore these historical sites and landmarks.
 
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Old Town
Old Town Warsaw is where it all began, and sadly nine-tents of Warsaw was destroyed during the war.
This sea of rubble became one of the most destroyed cities in Europe, and was rebuilt through 1962. 
This is the area where you'll see the majority of historical sites in town. Warsaw became an official city in 1323, and today there is no shortage of streetside cafes and shops waiting to be explored. 

In the summer time, the streets are alive with musicians, street artists and locals enjoying life at the many outdoor cafes. In Old Town, some of the old ways of living and enjoying life in Europe are experienced throughout town. 
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Royal Castle
What you see today is the result of years worth of though constructed into genius architecture. The origins date back to the 14th Century where a tower and some wooden buildings once stood. The current structure's construction began at the end of the 16th Century and former rulers demanded several expansions throughout the centuries. A large portion of the castle was damaged in 1939 and later other areas destroyed in 1944. The castle is available for viewing, and visitors meander through many large and small rooms depicting life from the noble perspective. There are a collection of paintings inside the castle from masters like Rembrandt, van Dyck, Joos van Cleve and Gainsborough.

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Royal Route & Castle Square
The Royal Route is a is a former communication route that led southward from the origins in Castle Square. Today, some of the most historic landmarks and sites exist on the route to Wilanów (King Jan III Sobieski's personal residence). The route links three of city's royal residences: the Royal Castle, tazienki Park's Palace on the Island and Wilanow Palace. The 11 kilometer route passes through some of the most prominent parks, churches, monuments, historic buildings and architectural wonders in town. Click here for the list of sites along the Royal Route. 


In the middle of the castle square is a statue of the man, Zygmunt III Waza, the person responsible for Warsaw becoming Poland's capital city. In 1596, Poland's capital switched from Krakow to Warsaw, which became the center of Renaissance Europe's largest empire. The 22-meter high monument erected in 1664. 
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Nicholas Copernicus Monument
The founder of modern astronomy comes from the Polish town, Toruń. The large statue stands before the Staszic Palace, the seat of the Polish Academy of Sciences and surrounded by the bronze Copernicus solar system underneath. This statue has quit the historic past. Erected in 1830, during the second world war, the Nazis placed a plaque on the statue, claiming Copernicus was German. On February 11, 1942, a boy scout called Alek Dawidowski snuck around the guards and removed the plaque. Obviously, the Nazis were not happy and decided to hide the statue. 

According to Wiki, "In response, on 21 February, the Germans moved Warsaw's statue of Jan Kiliński to the National Museum in Warsaw. Dawidowski and his comrades retaliated by placing a large graffito on the Museum ("People of Warsaw—I am here. Jan Kiliński") and on 13 March adding a new plaque to the Copernicus monument: "For removal of the Kiliński statue, I am extending the winter by two months. Kopernik."
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The Mermaid Statue
The mermaid is the symbol and protector of Warsaw. In fact the name Warsaw relates to the mermaid and it's story is quit a unique story. In Polish Warsaw is Warszawa. Wikipedia states, "Folk etymology attributes the city name to a fisherman, Wars, and his wife, Sawa. According to legend, Sawa was a mermaid living in the Vistula River with whom Wars fell in love."

According to Atlas Obscura, "The legend of the Warsaw mermaid, or “syrenka” in Polish, is a relatively simple one. She originated from the Baltic Sea, where (according to some versions of the story) she had a twin sister, the famous Little Mermaid of Copenhagen. The syrenka swam up the Vistula River until she was at what is now Warsaw’s old town. There, she saw some fishermen catching fish and decided to meddle with their nets and free the catch. 

The fishermen were angry at the meddlesome creature and tried to catch it, but once they saw the mermaid and heard her siren song they could not harbor any hate for her any longer. Later, the mermaid was captured by a rich merchant who wanted to haul her off as some kind of prize. But the fishermen would not have it and freed her from the greedy man’s clutches. The mermaid was thankful and promised to protect the fishermen and their homes from then on. From that moment, she became the city’s guardian and protector in times of need."

A copy of the statue resides in Old Town Market Place. The original statue was removed due to vandalism. 

Old Town Market Square
This square was once the epicenter of commercial life in Warsaw. This square is the most historic area in Old Town, and surrounded by Baroque and Renaissance facades that were once merchant's homes. Although post war replicas of what once stood, this square was rebuilt to it's original form. It is not uncommon to find artists in the square selling paintings and drawings. 

St. Anne's Church
This is one of the oldest landmarks in Warsaw. Founded in 1454, the church was rebuilt several times, with its final construction in 1788 displaying a Neoclassical facade. The exterior displays four evangelists and the interior features a baroque design. The church features a stand alone bell tower, where many visit to admire the lookout spot over castle square, old town and Krakowskie Przedmieście. The only drawback is that visitors must climb 147 stairs to get to the viewpoint. 

Nowy Świat Street
This street is part of the walk along the Royal Route. Often used by the wealthy and the aristocrats, the street originates from the 16th Century when the upper crust traveled this road from the city to the country side. Once Warsaw's population grew, so did the aristocrat homes along this street. And during the Napoleonic times, the wooden structures were rebuilt into Neoclassical villas and mansions. 

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 Historical Sites You Can't Miss in Warsaw.

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A Guide to Berlin's Neighborhoods

8/6/2019

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It's very rare to hear people say, "I don't like Berlin." The rich cultural flair has changed throughout the decades. Steeped in history from World War II to communism, Berlin has transformed like any other major city into a major cultural city. Some like the changes. Other do not. Regardless of what you like, there is plenty to do and see in Berlin. 

If you have limited time in Berlin, this guide is here to inform you of the best areas to see and explore based on your interest. The sprawl of Berlin is so large that sometimes it takes 30-40 minutes just to reach the other side of town (or the wall) on the U-bahn or S-bahn. Strategy is necessary if limited on time. 

Mitte
Mitte translates to "middle," and this is the prime location for much of historic Berlin. Central Mitte was once the heart of East Berlin and still holds that traditional feel as its free from gawky skyscrapers.  There are plenty of tourist shops along Unten Den Linden. 
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Unter Den Linden is the most popular spot in Mitte. Translating to, "Under the lime tree," some of the most prominent World War II sites and museums are here. The walk stretches from the Berliner Dome (Cathedral) to the Brandenburg Gate. One can easily spend an entire day exploring the museums, landmarks and cafes.
​Discover more to do on my other blog post: A Walking Tour of Unter den Linden: Berlin's Most Prominent & Historical Street.
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Alexanderplatz
Alexanderplatz is Berlin's largest square and home to the famous TV tower. This tower marks the spot of where Berlin Old Town once stood, which ws destroyed in the war. Settlers first put roots in this area in the 13th Century, and built cottages, which are now replaced by post war buildings. 
The square earned it's title from Tsar Alexander I, who visited the Prussian capital in 1805. Visitors will find plenty of corporate shops, cafes and cinemas, and although modern, the square is home to many historical events such as the March Revolution of 1848, which also happened in November 1989. Hollywood appearances have also been here like quick shots being filmed in the Bourne movies. 

Discover more on my 
In Search of Communism in Berlin – Best Historical Sites.
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Potsdamerplatz
Some claim this neighborhood has an identity crisis. A former wasteland, today Potsdamerplatz is littered with glass high rises and modern shops and restaurants. Enjoy a birds eye view of the city from 
Panoramapunkt in the Kollhof Tower. Here visitors will notice metal plaques and bricks on the ground, indicating where the former Berlin Wall once stood.  Plenty of excellent museums reside here, some of the better ones outside of Unter den Linden. 

If you don't have much time in Berlin, this is one area to skip. 
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Friedrichstadt
This upscale shopping neighborhood is home to the popular Checkpoint Charlie, a border crossing between east and west Germany during the Communist era. Nearby is a DDR museum, Gendarmenmarkt and the Topography of Terror, which are all famous historical sites and museums.  Also nearby is 
Anhalter Bahnhof, is a former railway terminal station turned bunker in WW2. Opened in 1880, it was considered the most-grand train station in the world. 

Discover more area sites and museums on my 
10 Significant WW2 Sites to Visit in Berlin, Germany.

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Prenzlauer Berg
In the early 2000's, this was once the grunge and hip neighborhood. Thanks to gentrification, the yuppies moved in, upsetting the neighborhood's vibe. Like an identity crisis, remains of the graffiti landscape still exist amidst a prim and proper neighborhood. Part hipster, part cultured, this is one area to discover many independent bars, shops and cafes. It certainly is "geil," or cool.
 
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 Friedrichshain + Kreuzberg

Located in the former West Berlin these two neighborhoods are split by the River Spree, but connected with the Oberbaumbrücke. My first memory of Friedrichshain was watching local hipsters and punks "make a party" underneath the bridge and a girl who looked exactly like the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo exit the U-bahn station.  It didn't matter if it was 3pm or 11pm, partying was a part of this neighborhood. The neighborhood was a ghost town at 8am with the exception of late night parties still dancing to techno from the local warehouse party. 
This is definitely the place to find plenty of exotic and vegan cuisine. The East Side Gallery, or the former Berlin Wall, still exists today with plenty of graffiti.  

Kreuzberg is another neighborhood filled with cheap eats, squatters and buildings tagged with graffiti. Many Turks live here so finding a doner stand is relatively easy. This certainly is the "multikulti" (multi-cultural) neighborhood where Bohemian artists live in their dream "shithole" apartment for a couple hundred euros. 

Tiergarten - Zoo Area
During the Prussian era, Tiergarten used to the be the  hunting grounds for the local kings. Informally known today as the "green heart" of Berlin, the zoo region is bordered by Brandenburg Gate and the Reichstag on the east, the zoo on the west, Potsdamer Platz and the Memorial of the Murdered Jews on the southeast and the Bellevue Castle (the residency of the German President) on the northern tip. It is not uncommon to find unclothed Germans in some of the area's parks, which allows for FKK (nude) sunbathing. The 600 acres of greenspace is one of the largest parks and spaces in the city. On Sundays look for the antique / flea market, 
Berliner Trödelmarkt. 

​What's your favorite neighborhood in Berlin?

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How to Spend a Day in Hamburg, Germany

7/23/2019

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Hamburg is a northern Germany city, steeped with history, class, culture and classless culture. Germans love Hamburg. And so do tourists. 

I like Hamburg. I didn't find it anymore impressive than other big cities in Germany. Call me weird, but I found the smaller towns and cities more impressive, but hey everyone has their preferences. Hamburg is like a very unique mixed drink. Its a fusion of so many cultures and vibes it's hard to get a grasp of the city's identity. 

Hipsters love it for the seedy St. Pauli,  reeperbahn and graffiti culture, where fine art junkies marvel at the magnificence of the city's art and cultural scene, and water lovers marvel at the grey skies over the port. Whatever you choose in Hamburg, you're bound to having a good time, rain or shine. 

Jungfernsteig
As seen in the above image, Jungfernsteig is a waterfront promenade on the Binnenlaster. On land, explore a myriad of shops and department stores, cafes and independent shops in historical, Neoclassical buildings. The name, Jungfernsteig came about as a tradition of wealthy Hanseaten families who flaunted their unmarried daughters for eligible bachelors.  
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Speicherstadt
This warehouse district is a popular place to wander and admire meandering canals, graffiti bridges, historic architecture and locals living their daily life. UNESCO claimed this a world heritage site on July 5, 2015 alongside with the Kontorhaus and Chilehaus displays the largest warehouses in the world. One may consider that the name Chilehaus is a unique name for a German building. And that is true. Built in the 1920's by a local shipping magnate, Henry Sloman, one of the richest in Hamburg, made his fortune trading saltpeter with Chile. 
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Poggenmühlen-Brücke
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Located in Speicherstadt, this bridge is a hot spot for marvelous photos of the warehouse district. The bridge itself is nothing spectacular besides being pieces of metal floating above water, but most images you see of this district come from the bridge. Sunset is a popular time where the sun reflects off the brick and stone. igniting golden rays of warm hues painted alongside the brick. 
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St. Michael Church
One cannot visit an ancient German city without visiting one of the most prominent churches in town. Located in Altstadt, is the city's most famous Baroque church. Built in the 17th Century, the church features a 132-meter dark cupola at the top of the tower, which is visible from any part of town. The church has had its fair share of high and low moments. In 1750, the tower was struck by lightening, causing the tower to fall and crumble. The tower was also damaged by a fire in 1912, and luckily "avoided" extensive damage from World War II. The church's crypt holds the remains of 2,425 bodies including composer Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach. The 106-meter observation deck is open and features a stunning view of the harbor. 

Kunsthalle
Nearby the hauptbahnhof (central train station), is one of Germany's most prominent art museums. In my opinion, Berlin has the best, but Hamburg is worth the visit. Explore a mix of fine art and modernism with old and new timer artists such as Rembrandt, Goya and Canelleto, Picasso, Warhol and Kircher. 
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Sankt Pauli - St. Pauli District & the Reeperbahn
A district where, sin, sex and prostitution thrives, the young and the old come here to "make a party." Alive day and night, there some bouts of normalcy exist with clothing shops, restaurants and art galleries. Although the seediness is controlled, this neighborhood has a history of dancing with the devil. As a port city, sailors have long come to the shores of Hamburg and made way to the St. Pauli District for entertainment after many months at sea. After a consistent amount of time of landlocked mermaids luring sailors of the sea in between the sheets, this is how the red light district originated.  

​How did you spend a day in Hamburg? 

Let's Connect!


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 How to Spend a Day in Hamburg, Germany.
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5 Cities to Visit in the UK

6/27/2019

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The UK is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations with over 40 million visitors each year. Almost half of these people flock to London to visit historic sights such as Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London. But there's more to Britain than the capital. Here are five more cities worth a visit:
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1. Manchester

Manchester is quickly becoming one of the UK's most visited cities, with a 10% rise in visitorsbetween 2016 and 2017.

It's a city that has it all – from brilliant museums and a fascinating history to a thriving nightlife. It's also easy to get to from anywhere in the world, with its international airport a short train ride from the city centre. If you're heading to the city this year, be sure to check out the Northern Quarter for quirky shops, street art and independent bars and restaurants.
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2. Bristol

Bristol is located in South West England, close to the Welsh border. It's a city of contrasts, where a rich, industrial history meets a relaxed and cool vibe.

The city is famous for its street art. Banksy was born here, and several of his pieces are spread around the city. It's a beautiful city to visit at any time of year, largely thanks to the stunning harbour and colourful, painted houses. And if you get bored of city life, some of the UK's most incredible countryside is right on your doorstep.
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3. Edinburgh

The capital of Scotland should be high on anyone's list when planning a holiday within the UK. It has all the usual things you would expect from a city break – history, sightseeing, shopping and delicious food and drink.

But Edinburgh is perhaps most famous for its festivals. If you can, you should aim to visit Edinburgh during Hogmanay or the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Both draw large crowds and, once you've experienced it for yourself, you'll understand why. Hogmanay takes place at new year, with the Edinburgh Fringe happening across the entire month of August.​

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4. York

The jewel in Yorkshire's crown, York is a city not to be missed. It's most famous for its history and is home to The Shambles - a well-preserved medieval street with buildings that date back to the 14th century.

It's also home to the UK's longest remaining town walls, which were first built by the Romans in 79AD. Most of the walls are still in place today and provide a fantastic city centre walk that allows you to take in all the sights. Once you've spent the day taking in the city's historic delights, you can relax and indulge in one of the many outstanding independent restaurants.
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5. Brighton

A guide to Britain's best cities wouldn't be complete without at least one seaside destination. Our favourite is Brighton, which sits on England's southern coast.

It's a diverse and lively city, with a relaxed and welcoming vibe that attracts over 10 million visitors each year, from across the UK and beyond. The waterfront is where it's at during the summer months, complete with its Grade II listed pier. Check out the rides and then enjoy a British staple – fish and chips – on the gorgeous pebble beach.

This is a guest blog piece and provided to The Lemon Tree. 

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12 Cheap + Free Cultural Things to do in Copenhagen

5/27/2019

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The beloved capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen, is one of the most visited cities in Europe. Although not cheap, many backpackers and budget travelers want to explore the city, but without spending an entire month's earnings. Luckily, there are plenty of inexpensive and free things to do throughout the city, and here are 12 tips and ideas for the budget traveler. 
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The Copenhagen Lakes 
The Lakes, known as Søerne, consist of three rectangular lakes: Sortedam Lake, Peblinge Lake and Sankt Jørgens Lake. Once the sun comes out, locals and families walk around the lakes and picnic in the nearby green spaces. In the summer, rent paddle boats from Søernes Bådudlejning (Copenhagen Lakes Boat Rentals), situated by the Dronning Louises Bridge.

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Torvehallerne Market
​Torvehallerne Market is the perfect place to see the locals living their daily life. From produce stands to fish markets to wine stalls, this market showcases how the locals live, eat and survive. Here you can pick up from bread and cheese for a cheap sandwich or sample local favorites such as fiskefrikadelle (fish cake) or an open-faced smørrebrød sandwich. Prices feel more expensive than other countries, which is normal as there is no getting around to spending some money in Copenhagen.
 
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Sankt Annae 8
This tiny Danish restaurant sits in the Christianshavn neighborhood and is known for its quintessential Danish atmosphere and cuisine. On the cheap, it is the perfect stop for a cup of coffee, dessert or a glass of wine and soak up whatever sun you may find at the street side tables. Warm and cozy on the inside, if you decide to splurge, this is the right place as there is no better place to eat like a local than here. This place is vegetarian friendly. 
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Explore the Coffee Culture
Scandinavian cultures are known for its cafes. How could they not be since it is cool and cloudy most days of the year. Stay warm and awake with a latte at one of Copenhagen's many cafes. There are plenty of historic cafes in Old Town alongside with modern, chic coffee joints around town. If you are here for several days, you'll be able to explore a myriad of local places. WeCycle Copenhagen is the perfect place to mix cycling and coffee. The Coffee Collective is a modern, sleek Scandinavian "hyggelige" coffee shop with an Instagram-worthy interior. 

Christiana Neighborhood
Christiana is a gritty, ultra-liberal yet controversial part of Copenhagen. Technically it's own country, Christiana is an alternative society founded in 1971 during a housing shortage. The Green  Light District is where marijuana dealers do their thing and The Free Town is where organic, dairy-free restaurants co-exist. The district sits on 34-hectares of green space  including hiking trails and lakes. Pictures are not allowed to be taken in the district. 

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Mermaid Statues
One of the most popular statues in Copenhagen is The Little Mermaid statue inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale. The statue depicts a lady on a rock of a mermaid who turns human on land. The picture above shows the 
The Black Diamond (Den Sorte Diamant) Mermaid, which is two-miles away from the original statue, nearby the Royal Library. 

The Royal Library 

​The Royal Library is the seat of the Danish government, and is worth an exploration. There are two sides of the library, the old and the new. The original building, founded in 1648, is the traditional foundation of the library where as the modern extension was completed in 1999. The juxtaposition is a sight to see, but the library features almost every book ever written in Danish, dating back to 1482. 

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Nyhavn
Nyhavn is a must visit in Copenhagen. This charming 17th Century nautical district features the beauty of ancient Danish architecture as well seeing the fisherman way of living come to life. Once a lively waterfront neighborhood packed with sailors, ladies of pleasure, pub houses, and fishermen is now a bit more refined with high end cafes and luxury restaurants. The restaurants in this area are expensive, but worthy of a sachet through the street side cafes. 

The less attractive side of the water showcases the best views on Nyhavn. Visit house 20 where Danish author, Hans Christen Anderson lived in 1835 when he published his first volume of fairy tales, 'The Tinderbox', 'Little Claus and Big Claus', and 'The Princess and the Pea.'

If budget allows, take a one-hour boat canal tour from Nyhavn to explore the waterfront regions of Copenhagen. Cost is approximately $15USD. On the tours one discovers historical landmarks such as churches, castles, old homes and famous landmarks. 

Old Town
​Old Town Copenhagen is another must-visit while in town. During peak season, up to 10,000 visitors walk the streets of Old Town to savor the local flavor and to purchase local goods. Discover plenty of shops on Strøget street. For something quieter and more scenic visit Magstræde and Gråbrødretorv square. 

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Explore the Bike Culture
Like Amsterdam, Copenhagen is one of the most popular cycling cities in Europe. Even if you're not into riding bikes, just admiring the bike parking spots is a sight to see at the main train station as well as near the ​Torvehallerne Market. Every shop is different but some places allow reservation bookings before even stepping foot in the city. WeCycle coffee shop features rentals. Here is a list of rental places in Copenhagen. 
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Explore Traditional + Modern Architecture
Copenhagen interestingly fuses old world charm with modernism. Although bizarre, some of the newer buildings are not necessarily "bad," but offer reflections that look into the past, but also into the future. Studying the various squares and waterfront canals offers a glimpse into Copenhagen's past, but also into it's future. 

What cheap and free things do you recommend doing in Copenhagen?

Let's Connect!

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 12 Cheap and Free Cultural Things to Do in Copenhagen.
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12 Must Visit Historical Sites in Valencia, Spain

5/1/2019

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Steeped with history, Valencia, like most of Spain, has a long, dark yet interesting historical past. Whether you're looking to marvel at ancient churches or discover Valencia's roots in the Silk Trade, there is something to explore for every historian at heart. 
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Mercado de Colon - Colon Market
This market is not to be missed while in Valencia. Whether you want a coffee, tapas or groceries, Colon Market is an eclectic mix of modern and traditional cuisines. The original structure dates back to 1916 and contains a mix of architectural designs including a hint of Gaudi. Colon Market attracts a variety of tourists and locals alike, some who purchase flowers and others who just want to enjoy a coffee and a smoke. There are over 1,300 stalls inside this these four walls. Next door is Iglesia de los Santos Juanes, a 14th Century church.

Iglesia de los Santos Juanes
This 14-century church is one of the oldest in Valencia. It features a Baroque façade though the original structure is gothic. A fire destroyed the interior in the year 1552, but is still considered a Baroque gem. The church is built upon the site of a 13th Century mosque.
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Puenta del Mar
This historic bridge is the gateway between ancient and modern Valencia. Built in 1591, this is one of the oldest still-standing bridges in the city. Before visiting, or returning from, the garden below, admire the two statues, the Virgin Mary and St. Paschal. It’s a magical piece of history that should not be missed. The bridge sits next to Valencia's most prominent park, Jardin del Turia. 
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Plaza de la Virgen
This iconic plaza is one of the most visited in Valencia. This charming square dates back to the Roman era. The plaza contains three prominent structures the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Basílica de la Virgen de los Desamparados, and the Palace of the Generalitat. The elaborate fountain is a photogenic place where Neptune sits in the middle surrounded by eight naked women. The plaza's cafes are popular amongst travelers and locals alike. 


La Lonja (THE SILK EXCHANGE)
This building is one of the most famous civil gothic buildings in Europe. The first stone was laid in 1492 and became an important aspect of Valencia's history. Valencia would not be what it is today without the silk trade. Most people have heard of the "Silk Road," which expanded from the Asia to Europe. Valencia was one of Europe's most prestigious places where silk was once sold. Valencia was the perfect location to receive silk from North Africa and distribute it throughout Europe. Where traders once gathered to talk in courtyards is now just a peaceful place to sit and admire the orange trees. 


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Serrano and Quart Towers
The Del Carmen neighborhood is literally living with history. This thousand year old neighborhood blossomed through time between two walls, Muslim and Christian. The Serrano and Quart Towers are the sole remains of medieval Valencia. The Quart Towers were part of the Christian city walls in the 14th Century, though the towers are from the 15th Century. The monument's exterior features damage spots caused from French seige in 1808.   
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Horchateria de Santa Catalina 
In case you haven’t eaten enough this trip, the historic Santa Catalina is a historic café that is “Home of two Centuries of traditions.” This café and bakery features countless traditional treats and horchata, a healthy, energizing and digestible beverage composed of Tiger nuts. The nuts originate from Egypt and Valencian’s mix it with sugar and milk to concoct a nutrient-rich “iced” beverage that locals eat with fartons. The idea originates from the 8th and 13th Century Muslim rule in Spain.  Besides pumping your cells full of Vitamin C, E, calcium and iron, admire the Spanish tile that glimpses into Spanish history.
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Parroquia de San Nicolás de Bari y San Pedro Mártir
Known as one of the  best churches in Valencia, this Gothic-style Catholic church features an ornate baroque interior with ceiling frescoes. Some say the artwork inside is the Valencian “Sistine Chapel” due to it’s grand scale and magnificence.  This church erected in 1242 and was one of the first 12 Christian churches in the city following the reconquest of Jaume 1 in 1238. 

Almoina Archaeological Center
This modern archeological museum features a variety of artifacts including a two-thousand-year-old ancient ruin from the first Roman settlement in Valencia and a Roman bath. The well-preserved remains were discovered between 1985 to 2005. Other noteworthy artifacts include a waterwheel, courtyard pool, baptistery and apse of a church, pottery and other fortifications that once stood during the Islamic period.

What's your favorite historical spot in Valencia? Let's Connect! 

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 12 Must Visit Historical Sites in Valencia, Spain.
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Discovering Krakow's Jewish Culture & Heritage

4/18/2019

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It is no secret that the Polish Jews suffered during World War II. Today, thousands of visitors come to Krakow to rediscover Krakow's dark past, which also includes Jewish history, culture and heritage. Jews began immigrating to Krakow in the 12th Century, and during the 15th Century they settled primarily in the Kazimierz neighborhood. 

Before World War II, 64,000 Jews lived in Krakow, working in trades such as banking, craftsmanship, and owning restaurants. There were six prominent synagogues in town. During the war, many Jews were displaced, either to concentration camps, the Jewish ghetto of Schindler's Factory. In fact, Schindler saved approximately 1,200 Jews. 

After the war, approximately 10% (three to four thousand Krakow Jews) survived, many of which did not return home to Poland. Today, the Jewish culture revived itself, thanks to the small percentage of Jews who returned to Krakow to reinstate it's heritage. Whether you're searching for history or a good meal, there is plenty of  Jewish history to discover while in Krakow.
 
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Jewish Ghetto
On March 3, 1941, the Nazi occupation created a dwelling place for Krakow Jews. Podgorze is the conception of the Jewish ghetto located on the right side of the Wisla River. The ghetto consisted of 15 streets and some 320 buildings and 3,200 rooms, completely walled off from the rest of the city. The ghetto's western edge, at Limanowskiego Street near Rynek Podgorski square was the main entrance gate to the ghetto along with another gate on Limanowskiego Street, which was solely for the entrance of German military trucks.

Here is where many Jews met their horrific fate of executions, beatings, deportations to camps and being torn apart from their family. Today, in Ghetto Heros Square 33 monumental chairs and 37 regular chairs exist in rows to symbolize the tragic deaths and empty seats that the residents of the ghetto left behind. 
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Kazimierz - Jewish Square
Located south of Old Town and between the Wisla River and Ul, the Jewish Quarter is a neighborhood not only for Jewish culture, but for Bohemian artists as well. Near the Jewish Square green space are countless Jewish Restaurants surrounded by five synagogues. 

The historical pavilion, Plac Nowy, is a popular antique market that contains a farmers market on the weekend. There are also countless antique shops in this district that are worth exploring.

I recommend visiting the tiny black and white shops, Galeria Lue Lue to discover old black and white images of historic Krakow and Poland. Speaking of black and white, the Kazimierz District is where Steven Spielberg filmed the movie, Schindler's List. 

To discover more about Jewish culture visit the 
Center for Jewish Culture on Meiselsa Street. 
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There are countless opportunities to discover Jewish culture and cuisine around Jewish Square.

​One of the most photogenic store fronts are on Szeroka Street in between Miodowa and where Szeroka Street bends.  

Admire the historic window fronts, hear live music or simply explore your pallate with Kosher and Traditional Polish Food. I recommend Jewish Restaurant, Arial, and Kuchnia Domowa on Miodowa Street. 

Discover more on 7 Authentic Polish Restaurants in Krakow, Poland (for Pierogies & Vegetarians too). ​​

Kazimierz is the perfect neighborhood to explore sacral architecture and the Jewish Synagogues. I overhead a tour guide once state that the 
synagogues located across from each other, those people who worshipped at different places of Jewish faith (traditional vs. more progressive), would not cross the road at the conflicting-beliefs  synagogues location. 

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Synagogue is ‘synagoga’ or ‘boznica’ in Polish. 

There are seven main synagogues in the neighborhood with the Old Synagogue being the oldest in Poland. Built in the early 16th Century, next to the 14th Century city walls, this synagogue now houses a branch of the Historical Museum of Krakow, which displays exhibitions dedication to Jewish culture and history. Destroyed by a fire in 1557, the exterior received a Renaissance reconstruction while the interior remained Gothic. During World War II, the Nazis not only damaged the building, but turned it into a warehouse. The Nazis also executed 30 Polish hostages at its wall in 1943. 

Szeroka Street contains the main three synagogues, the Old Synagogue, Remuh (1557 Renaissance style) and Wolf Popper's Synagogue (1620 Baroque style).  As the highlights of the Jewish community, every synagogue has its own architectural style and "brand" of the Jewish faith. Remuh is located adjacent to the historic Jewish Cemetery ​that's existed since 1511. 


The 1590 High Synagogue located on On Józefa Street, is the city's tallest synagogue. The Neo Romanesque, Tempel Synagogue at 24 Miodowa Street, was built in 1862 for the Society of the Progressive Israelites, and the interior's woodwork contains "Moorish" design. Isaac's Synagogue was completely destroyed during World War II. Kupa Synagogue is a modest synagogue founded for the poor in 1643. 
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Schindler’s Factory
The once World War II factory is now a historical museum. The factory housed the former Nazi industrialist who saved the lives of his Jewish workforce during the Holocaust. Guests will see Schindler’s desk intact to what it would look like during the war alongside with walls filled with plates, Nazi propaganda and photos of the factory workers.

​Nearby is the popular family-owned restaurant, 
Jadlodajnia Wczoraj I Dzis (bottom food image below). 
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Ariel Jewish Restaurant
One of the most unique culinary experiences in Krakow is to explore the Jewish and Kosher culture. Discover countless Jewish restaurants along Szeroka Street.  

Located in Jewish Square, Ariel, sits between five synagogues in the heart of Kazimierz. Known for its live music events, Ariel features six indoor dining halls and outdoor seating in the summer. The green room, known as the fireplace room, features an eclectic mix of historic paintings and vintage items to replicate a Jewish tenement house from the 16th Century. In fact, "Arial" originates from the Old Testament and is named after one of the four archangels, "Uriel," known as the "Light of God."

And God bless this delicious food. Borscht, cabbage salads and Russian-style pierogies, you'll notice my trend as the blog post continues. A gift shop is also available. Prices are moderate to pricey. Check the website for the music concert calendar and apartment rentals.

Galicia Jewish Museum
This photography exhibition contains over 140 images of Jewish culture and life over the last 100 years. The museum is divided into five sections. Four parts display the absence of Jewish people, which is why the images do not contain any people. The final part displays pictures of people who saved and revived Jewish culture and heritage. The photographs are in color. 

What is your favorite spot in the Jewish Quarter in Krakow?

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 Discovering Krakow's Jewish Culture and Heritage.

Let's Connect!

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    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

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