Category: Travel Tips

Hotel A Torre do Xudeu – Tui, Spain - A Night to Remember

11/27/2018

The moment I crossed into Spain on the Camino, my eyes teared with emotions. I had no choice but to walk forward, away from Portugal, a country I love dearly with my heart.

Despite my sadness, the beauty of Tui, Spain ignited feelings of refinement that live deep within my soul. The city is as beautiful as God’s heart. And Hotel A Torre do Xudeu is no different.

This elegant and historic hotel is a 1746 mansion, situated directly on the Camino and a five-minute walk to the main Cathedral. The front desk staff promptly checked me in and toured me around the hotel, giving insight to the mansion’s history and aristocratic background.

The staff told me this was always a Christian home, but some online sources note about a “Jewish Tower.” Even during the time when the Christians and the Moors fought, this area remained under Christian rule.

The second level features an elegant dining room and living room, which guests use at their leisure. The brief tour led to a balcony that overlooked the River Miño, Tui and the distant landscape. Luxury doesn’t stop on the balcony. Guests enjoy a private lookout point or the hotel’s secluded garden.

Meandering up the winding stair case, additional basic private rooms are available. My room and the comfortable bed, graciously awaited my presence. I opened the ancient window to let in a breeze while Maria pointed out the window. My window looked directly at the Cathedral town and Valenca, Portugal.

How sweet and endearing. Portugal, now a memory is still in sight. I sat in the gorgeous bay window to observe the skyline and the pilgrims walking on the Camino below my window.

As above, so below. The writing desk ignited sweet words of wisdom that flowed my head, through my heart and into my hand. Sometimes I feel like I’m born in the wrong era. Not only did I hear church bells from my window, I heard the cathedral bells “sing” at the strike of the hour in the morning – a nice and pleasant way to start the morning. The most difficult part of the morning was in regards to getting out of bed. Comfy and cozy, I was so warm I did not want to get out of bed.

While sitting at the head of the dining room table, I felt alive and at home with my soul and surrounding atmosphere.

The hotel has character and class, which is something ancient architecture teaches us daily. It’s a mix of textures, elements and shapes within the architectural design. The breakfast area fuses this style of desire.

And speaking of breakfast…this was the best breakfast I had on the Camino. In my opinion, a five-star breakfast there were zero complaints about options. I don’t eat meat, but the breakfast bar features a variety of meats, wheel cheeses, rolls, pastries, cakes, cereals, fresh melon and fruit, juice, coffee and tea. The most exquisite moment of breakfast was sipping on strong Spanish coffee, “café con leche,” while gliding my fork into a slice of flan. My god this was the best morning fuel for any tired and famished pilgrim.

The lobby features several glass cases containing jewelry made by local artists. With a passion to preserve Galician culture, these artists present jewelry designs that integrate the Celtic roots and petroglyphs, which is what makes Galicia so different from the rest of Spain.

I found it difficult to leave this hotel. Beauty is inspirational and this hotel is not only beautiful, but inspired the creative artist within me. I hope one day to revisit Tui, and will certainly book my stay again at Hotel A Torre do Xudeu.

Onsite parking is free of charge. I made my reservation via booking.com. Prices vary but when booked in advance, prices are as low as 45 euros per night.

Discover more about my Camino de Santiago Portuguese Journey on my YouTube Channel.

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Five Sacred Spots to Restore Your Soul in Lhasa

10/15/2018

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Lhasa, the capital of the Tibet Autonomous Region, is considered to be one of the highest cities in the world and carries on its shoulders no less than 1000 years of fascinating cultural and spiritual history. Lhasa rises at an altitude of 3.600 meters, between the Nyenchen Tanglha mountains to the North, and Yarlung, the cradle of Tibetan civilization, to the South.

In the Tibetan language, Lhasa translates as the Holy Land or Buddha Land and definitely lives up to its name. A place of breathtaking beauty and one-of-a-kind sights, Lhasa is also one of the best places in the world for meditation and spiritual travel. Here, surrounded by some of the most spiritually charged and enigmatic spots in the world, you can restore your soul, connect with your inner self, recharge your batteries and discover a face of tourism that has nothing to do with intrusive tourist groups and overcrowded attractions.

Although the economic and political role of Lhasa has decreased over the centuries, the city’s splendid spiritual sights have become all the more intriguing, becoming a true hub for travelers who want to explore their soul while at the same time uncovering the fascinating mysteries of Buddhism and Tibetan history.

The sacred spots of Lhasa to restore your soul

The list of places to see in Lhasa where you can restore your soul isn’t necessarily very long, but it features only awe-inspiring attractions that will completely redefine the notion of travel. Here are some of the spots where you can find inner peace:

Potala Palace
The highlight of Lhasa and one of the most beautiful palaces in the world, Potala Palace is actually ahuge architectural ensemblespanning across 13 stories. Here, you will over 1,000 rooms, 10,000 chapels, 200,000 statues and hundreds of annexes. The building of the Potala Palace started millennia ago, in 637, and over the years, it served as residence for all the Dalai Lama's, starting with the Fifth.

The name Potala comes from the Potalaka mountain in Southern India, meaning brightness, where, according to the legend, resides Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the Buddhist deity of compassion. Today, the current Dalai Lama no longer lives here, but visitors can see the perfectly preserved living quarters, shrines and ceremonial rooms featuring old jewels and the mummified tombs of past Dalai Lamas.

Jokhang Temple
Jokhang Temple is a fascinating and multi-faceted spiritual attraction where Tibetan, Chinese and Nepalese history intertwine, as well as a place of convergence between the Buddhism and the ancient Tibetan religion, Bön.Jokhang Templeis one of the oldest, most sacred and most important Buddhist temples in Tibet and you will also find among the most cherished UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Located in the Barkhor market in Lhasa, Jokhang Temple was built in an eclectic architectural style: Indian Vihara, Chinese Tang, and Nepalese.

The exterior of the temple is imposing without a doubt, but it’s the inside that is truly memorable: a dark, intricate labyrinth with shrines for various Tibetan Buddhist deities, where the scents of candles, incense and old wood fill the air and perfectly preserve the atmosphere of the 7thcentury. You will find numerous statues inside the temple, including the ones of Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, who ordered for the temple to be built, and Jowo Rinpoche, the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. This is considered to be the most worshiped statue in all of Tibet and legend has it that it was blessed by Buddha Shakyamuni centuries ago and it can fulfill miracles.

Norbulingka Palace
To the West of Potala Palace lies the serene Norbulingka Palace, the former summer residence of all Dalai Lamas between 1780 and 1959.

This Palace too is featured on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites is known for the vibrant festivities that take place here every summer: Sho Dun, or the yogurt festival, starts in end-July or mid-August right in Norbulingka Park and for a week people enjoy traditional cuisine, dance to Tibetan music and on Lhasa stadium they organize Yak races.

Sera Monastery
Sera Monasterywas founded 1419 and it is currently the largest monastery-university in Lhasa.
At its peak, it housed 6,000 Buddhist monks, but today only about 550 monks live there. During the Cultural Revolution that took place after 1959, Sera’s colleges were destroyed by the bombs, hundreds of monks were killed and numerous old books and ancient Tibetan artworks were lost forever. Part of the survivors took refuge in Bylakuppe, India, were the Indian Government helped them created a replica of the monastery – at present, about 3,000 monks live here.

Ramoche Temple
Dating all the way back to the 7thcentury, Ramoche Temple occupies almost one acre and is widely considered to be the second most important temple in Lhasa, after Jokhang. However, unlike Jokhang, this “sister temple” was built only in the Chinese architectural style. A splendid spot for pilgrimage and meditation, the Ramoche Temple amazes tourists with its beautifully ornate chapels, intricate pillars and colorful images of the temple protectors.

The original Ramoche temple was burned during the 1959 uprising against Chinese occupation at that time the famous statue Jowo Mikyoe Dorje disappeared. Fortunately, thanks to extensive restoration work and collective efforts to find the statue, the temple was restored to its full glory and can now be visited.

Drepung Monastery
Drepung Monastery is more than six centuries old and covers more than 20,000 square meters, making it the largest monastery in the world and also the one with the highest status among Buddhist monks. Standing out through its unique descending construction on the slopes of Mount Gephel, Drepung Monastery is not only a place for meditation, but also a place to see beautiful cultural relics, bronze statues, green courtyards and the magnificent Entrance Hall.

These are just some of the beautiful spiritual sites you can find in Lhasa, but the Tibetan capital hides many more spots that are just waiting to be discovered. If your spiritual journey to Lhasa helped you find inner peace, or it opened your appetite for visiting other serene locations that promote mindful travel, Lhasa definitely won’t be your only inspirational journey. There are many otherwish fulfilling placesin the world where you can get away from the noise of the city, witness the wonders of nature, admire grandiose temples and monasteries and learn more about the ancient cultures that shaped modern civilization.

From the summits of India to the beaches of Bali, spiritual destinations will help you reconnect with yourself and discover the one purpose of travel that truly matters: become at peace with yourself and become one with the Universe.

This is a blog guest post and The Lemon Tree has approved this piece.

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A Traveler's Guide to the Best Cultural Spots in Krakow, Poland

8/23/2018

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Krakow, Poland is a city that bustles with history, culture and soul. Alive from day to night, whether you are looking for the most historic church or the best jazz lounge in town, Krakow features countless cultural opportunities.

These are the best historical spots you cannot miss and is best explored in a two to three day itinerary. Although you may want to see it all, some of the best moments in Krakow are when you lose yourself, wandering down an old alley way, wondering, "What should I do next?"

St. Peter and Paul Church
In Poland, there is no lack of Catholic Churches. Built between 1597-1619, this is the biggest church in Krakow in terms of seating capacity. The Baroque Jesuit church is most known for its facade, containing the 12 apostles. The church was built shortly after the arrival of the Jesuits to defend the Catholic faith after signing the Council of Trident.

Between St. Peter and Paul Church and Market Square, it is common to find elder locals playing musical instruments along Grodzka Street.

Old Town Market Square
This is the area where most people congregate to, and once you lay eyes on the square you’ll know why. The grandiose square contains spirit of the past and the present. Small birds circle the cathedral and horse and carriage loop around the square. It is the largest medieval square in Europe, which dates back to 1257. St Mary’s Basilica is one of the most popular churches in town.

Explore the 10th Century St. Adalbert Church, which is a mix of pre-Roman, Roman, Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Explore what is left of Krakow Town Hall with its tower as the rest of the facility was demolished to open up the square. The 13th Century Town Hall Tower stands 70 meters, but leans 55 centimeters as a result of a storm in 1703. Two stone lions guard the tower, which were brought from the Classicist Palace. The tower climb is steep, but worth the view and the experience to understand life in the medieval days.

During the holiday season, enjoy the Christmas Market in Market Square. This is the perfect place to discover affordable Polish cuisine. Be sure to check out Wierzynek, the oldest restaurant in town with roots dating back to 1364.

Market Square also contains the Cloth Hall. The 14th Century Cloth Hall contains countless souvenir stands. Some claim cloth hall is the oldest “shopping mall” and the edifice dates to 1555. It's one of the best spots to purchase a souvenir.

And while on the topic of shopping, be sure to explore the countless shops in town and in the Cloth Hall that contain the popular Polish Pottery. These hand painted pieces of ceramic are a popular Christmas gift and is known for its stylish kitchen tools. Discover everything from spoons to baking dishes to coffee mugs.

One popular shops is Mila Polish Pottery located at: Sławkowska 14, 31-014 Kraków, Poland

Another popular traditional Polish relic are the amber jewelry. The handcrafted jewelry is expensive (according to backpacker standards) but is a notable symbol of Poland.

Krakow is also known for its bustling music scene. The Poles know how to party so there is no lack of techno clubs. But for the finer side of Polish culture, be sure to check out of the many jazz shows in town. You'll discover many jazz clubs in and around Market Square.

The two places I recommend are Harris Piano Jazz Bar and Piwnica Pod Baranami. These two establishments are next to eachother, both located underground with exposed brick walls and quirky, historical art on the walls.

On the corner of Florianska and Pijarska street is an outdoor painter's market called, Galeria obrazów pod Bramą Floriańską. Discover everything from landscapes to nature to dancers. The paintings are perched alongside an old stone wall and features art from over 100 artists. In operation for decades, this is the spot for an affordable canvas painting; however, they own a nearby shop that sells paintings with a frame,

Wawel Castle
Built between the 13th and 14th Century, Wawel Castle is the most impressive landmark in the city. Fifty thousand years ago, people lived on Wawel Hill during the Paleolithic Age. In the early 16th Century, King Sigismund I the Old brought in some of the best native and foreign artists to create the castle you see today. Permanent exhibitions include the State Rooms, Oriental Art, The Lost Wawel, The Royal Private Apartments and the Crown Treasury and Armory. Don’t be in too much of a rush, and be sure to stop and smell the flowers.

Wawel Cathedral
Inside the Wawel Castle is the cathedral where visitors marvel and decadent artistry and architectural wonders of the 18 chapels. Most of the Polish King’s and their family members, along with the nation’s greatest heroes, bishops, two poets and four saints, are buried in the cathedral.

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.

There are countless opportunities to discover Jewish culture and cuisine around Jewish Square. Admire the historic window fronts, hear live music or simply explore your pallate with Kosher and Traditional Polish Food. I recommend Jewish Restaurant, Arial.

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

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

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.

Jagiellonian University - Copernicus University and Museum
Take a walk into history at one of the oldest Universities in Europe, and the oldest University building in Poland with roots dating back to 1400. This historic college is the place where Copernicus did his studies and also experienced a downfall during the Nazi occupation of book burning and extermination of the professors. Take a tour inside the museum to discover countless artifacts, paintings and original astrological devices from the Copernicus era.

If you have two to three days in Krakow, you can explore most of these areas, even if you do not enter some of the museums. However, to take your time in each district or museum, it is best to schedule three days. Luckily, Krakow is not that spread out so it is easy to walk from place to place.

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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 A Traveler's Guide to the Best Cultural Spots in Krakow, Poland.

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7 Must-Visit Parks & Gardens in Seville, Spain

7/26/2018

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Imagine a world where the sun shines, flower petals flow with the wind and over-ripe oranges fall into your lap. If you can imagine this than you can imagine life in a Seville garden and park. Enchanted with beauty, nothing is more precious than the solo moments of breathing in the vibrant air while discovering exquisite architecture alongside hidden paths.

If you're looking for something natural and free, be sure to visit one of these gardens and parks in Seville.

Parque de Maria Luisa
If you visit only one park in Spain, Maria Luisa Park is it. The vast complexity of the interconnections between nature and architecture is mind-blowing. You'll discover everything from flowered vintage trellises to a patch of fallen oranges basking in the sunlight. The architectural elements from elegant gazebos to the prominent Plaza de España, discover a piece of Seville history. I spent wandered for two hours in the park, and discovered only a piece of the park. If hungry, eat at the adjacent Bar Citroen cafe as depicted in my recent "Favorite Restaurants & Cafes in Seville."

Jardines de Murillo | Jardin de Catalina de Ribera
Between the ancient Alcazar wall and Paseo de Catalina de Ribera, is the Jardines de Murillo. In late May and early June, pink petals gently sway in the wind falling alongside ceramic benches and water fountains. Named after the 17th century Sevillan painter Murillo, discover various monuments, including the notable Christopher Columbus statue.

Park Adjacent to Maria Luisa
Adjacent to Parque de Maria Luisa is another city park, containing tree-lined pathways, wrought-iron benches and manicured lawns. It's the perfect park for a late afternoon sachet in the shade or relax at Epheta for a beer. The Prado de San Sebastian is also located here. Somehow it is impossible to discover the real name of this park, but is located across from Maria Luisa on Av. Portugal.

Jardin de Cristina
Nearby the Cathedral and Alcazar is Jardin de Cristina, a poetically-romantic Spanish garden. Built in 1830 in Puerta Jerez, the park is named after King Ferdinand VII's second wife, Maria Cristina.This small triangle-shaped park is well landscaped and a nice space to relax, though not nearly as impressive as the other major parks in town.

Real Alcazar
A must in Seville, Real Alacazar is a place not only to discover lush gardens, but to revisit Sevilla's history. This is one of the oldest palaces left in the world, and an authentic representation of the southern Mediterranean battle between the Moors and the Christians. Constructed began in 913 by And Al Ramn III, and throughout it's history, Real Alcazar experienced several architectural face lifts throughout time. While inside you'll discover precious moments of flora and fauna, but highlights include Mudéjar and Patio de las Doncellas.

Beyond tile-lined benches and tree-lined footpaths, experience a variety of artifacts and paintings in the indoor museum. A small cafe with outdoor seating is also available.

Jardines de Buhaira
Located on Avenida de Buhaira, is another Moorish style garden. The park features The Buhaira Palace, an architectural wonder that dates back to the 12th Century. The park is more of a concrete jungle as compared to other parks that contain lush flora and fauna. Although impressive, I recommend the first four parks being on the top of your list.

Jardines de las Delicias
This park is an extension of Parque de Maria Luisa, nearby the river and adjacent to the aquarium. The park's main highlight are the sculptures dotted around the manicured lawn. The park is near the road so expect street traffic noise. I recommend spending ample time in Parque de Maria Luisa and exploring this park only if you have time.

If you have limited time I suggest spending time at Maria Luisa Park, Real Alcazar and Murillo Garden.

What's your favorite park in Seville?

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 7 Must Visit Parks in Seville, Spain .

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A Weekend's Guide to Rome

7/23/2018

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Author: Sam Ross

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rome is a place you definitely can’t miss out on visiting at least once in your life, even for just a weekend getaway. With just two days to explore and experience the magic of Rome, you’ll be surprised by how much you can see and do.
When to visit RomeTo avoid drowning in crowds, visit Rome between October and April.
During the winter, it can get as low as 37°F. If you prefer the sun, visit in May or September and you can enjoy a warm Rome with not so many tourists.
Accommodations in Rome When deciding on where to stay, remember: the closer it is to the city center, the heavier it is on the wallet. Luckily, Rome has a great underground system that will get you anywhere in no time. With this said, take your pick of the best accommodations Rome has to offer:

You can also choose to couch surf for free. And if you need some more help deciding, here’s a guide to the neighborhoods of Rome.

How to get around If you want discounted entry to several attractions, free rides on public transportation, and the privilege of skipping the line, then the Omnia Rome and Vatican Card is perfect for you. You’ll save plenty of time, energy, and money with this card. Check out this tourist guide for more information on how to get around.

Where to go in Rome

1. Vatican City
Kick off your trip with the iconic Vatican City, the smallest country in the world. As the headquarters of the Catholic Church, you’ll be seeing chapels and churches, such as the Sistine Chapel, in this country. Don’t miss out on the Map Room and the famous double helix staircase.

2. Visit the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum
Pro tip: visit the Sistine Chapel right before they close because around 30 minutes before closing time, they’ll turn off the artificial lighting and let you see the ceiling in all its natural glory.

3. Castel Sant’Angelo
For a spectacular view of the city, make your way to the top early in the day as it often closes by 6pm. This magnificently breathtaking monument has served as a mausoleum, fortress, castle, and finally, a museum.

4. Fountains of Piazza Navona
You can’t leave Rome without stopping by the three famed Fountains of Piazza Navona. Built in the 15th century, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, Fontana del Moro, and Fontana del Nettuno are truly all monuments of beauty and grace.

5. Spanish Steps
Walking down the 135 steps—featured in the famous Audrey Hepburn movie Roman Holiday--will feel familiar and enchanting. While you’re in the area, be sure to stroll through the Villa Borghese Gardens and down the Viale della Trinita dei Monti.

6. Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is the world’s largest Baroque fountain. Legend has it that people who throw a coin into the fountain will get to come back to Rome one day.

7. The Pantheon
Nearly 2,000 years old, the Pantheon exudes a kind of energy and power that captures you and reels you in. Its massive size is captivating and makes it a must-see while in Rome.

8. The Coliseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill & the Roseto Comunale
The Coliseum was notorious for hosting public gladiator fights that were gruesome and bloody. This massive monument is a Rome essential and a ticket for it also serves a ticket to the Roman Forum & Palatine Hill next door. The ancient architecture and ruins are beyond beautiful.
Once you reach the foot of the Palatine Hill, you’ll be in Roseto Comunale, one of Rome’s most romantic dinner cafes. Take the time to stop and smell the 1000+ rose species.

9. Cripta dei Cappuccini
Go to the Cripta dei Cappuccini for your once-in-a-lifetime chance to see skeletons up close!

10. Shopping areas
Whether you’re looking for designer dresses or affordable clothes, Rome has everything you need. To learn more about the affordable shopping spots, check here.

Best places to eat

Pizza E Mozzarella – #2 out of more than 10,000 restaurants in Rome, must-try pizza.
Pane e Salame – #3; amazing Italian “street food” for cheap.
Bread-in – #7; classic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Old Bear – Local favorite, the cacio e pepe is to die for.
Ginger Sapori e Salute – The best carbonara in town.
Knick Knack Yoda – Perfect for burger lovers.
Café et Caffé – Praised for its coffee and cakes.
PanDivino – Amazing tapas and paninis, chill atmosphere.
Della Palma – How can you say no to over 140 flavors of gelato?
Rome’s best pizzerias
The 38 “essential” Rome restaurants
Under 10 Euro restaurants
Must-try coffee shops

Tips from the locals
1. Dress for the occasion
During the summer months, wear the right clothes if you don’t want to be fainting from the heat. But if you plan on visiting churches, be sure to carry around a scarf to cover up.
For footwear, wear your most comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can get brutal.

2. The public water fountains are safe
While going around Rome, carry with you a jug or plastic bottle to fill up at the water fountains. The water is 100% safe and will save you from buying overpriced water.

3. Order house wine
At lunch or dinner, go for the house wine as it’s cheaper and tastes just as good. Simply say “un quarto di rosso della casa” and you’ll get a liter of red wine that comes in a carafe. The waiter will also be quite impressed by your expertise.

4. Carry around cash
Some restaurants and stores don’t always accept credit cards, so have some euros on you just in case.

5. Be on the lookout for pickpockets
Never let your guard down because the moment you do, you’ll end up going home with empty pockets.

6. Gelato 101
Look for:

Silver containers

Avoid:

White plastic tubs
Gelato piled really high and not melting (means it’s full of emulsifiers)
Unnaturally bright, fluorescent-colored gelato

7. Mondays are rest days
Most museums and restaurants are closed on Mondays, so check online before planning your Monday itinerary. Reserve Mondays for relaxing, park hopping, and shopping.

8. Try a night tour
Night tours are great for major spots that often attract large crowds. This way, you’ll beat the crowds and explore Rome at night.

Teeming with art, culture, history, and food to die for, there are more than a million reasons why it’s packed with tourists year after year. The city of Rome is one you can keep coming back to again and again. But when all is said and done, you’ll find that the best part about Rome is how it never quite leaves you, regardless of how long you actually stay. You’ll be surprised to see how compelled you feel to come back one day, if only just to feel the Roman sun and walk the cobbled streets again.

Author Bio: Sam Ross runs the blog The Hammock Hombre - a travel blog focused around the digital nomad lifestyle. Over the past 3 years, he's travelled to every continent, so writes on a broad range of countries, cities and destinations.

What's your favorite destination in Rome? 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 A Weekender's Guide in Rome.

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Comment Below to Win 1 of 10 Free GPSmycity.com 1-Year Subscription Plans

5/28/2018

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Lose Yourself Without Getting Lost

Summer is almost here, a time when avid travelers pack their bags and head to unknown places in search of history, adventure or the best the beer in town. But wouldn't it be nice to discover a city's secrets from the convenience of your mobile phone?

Have you ever read a travel article so informative that you wish you could bring it with you? Great news – now you can – even offline.

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The best part about upgrading to the app is that it works offline. This app is perfect for places like Europe where every country requires it’s own SIM cards to access 3G/4G Internet. This will save you time, money and a headache trying to find an electronics store.

Why use travel articles as an app?

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Using travel articles offers tips and suggestions that many tourism offices won’t tell you.

For example, you want to visit the Louvre and gaze at the Mona Lisa. An author (okay, me) may recommend visiting this painting as your first destination upon entering the museum. That way, the built-up excitement is still there compared to hours of roaming the museum and you become tired, exhausted and your back aches.

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So how do you win? Comment below with your 2018 travel plans OR what city you are looking forward to visiting the most! If there are more than 10 comments, I'll draw names from the hat and then contact you with your subscription code (an $18.99 value). When you comment, you'll enter your email which remains private and I'll only use your email to contact you with the code.

All comments must be received by June 3, 2018! Good Luck!

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My 12 Favorite Vegan Restaurants in Seattle

4/2/2018

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The west coast has no shortage of vegan restaurants. Most west coast establishments today offer vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options, and though SFO and PDX may very well be the Mecca of vegan food, Seattle has no shortage of amazing dairy-free cafes and restaurants. With so many choices, it's hard to choose where to go and what to eat while visiting Seattle. The hardest decision will be whether or not to devour pizza , an avocado smoothie or sweet and sour "chicken."

If looking to explore a slice, or a plateful of veganism, here are my favorite vegan restaurants in the city.

Bamboo Garden - Lower Queen Anne
This is my favorite veg restaurant in Seattle. Bamboo Garden feature traditional Chinese plates served with mock meats. The corn chowder with faux chicken is the best and so is the chicken and broccoli and sweet and sour chicken. Order by the plate or a combo meal as pictured above. Prices are moderate and parking is available. Some faux meats are vegetarian so check with the waitstaff for the vegan menu.

Loving Hut - International District
The Loving Hut is a global chain that features local specialties as well traditional Asian plates. One of the most surprising menu options is the avocado smoothie. It's amazing and back in 2011 when I first tried it (as avocados were not popular back then like today), it ignited an entirely new outlook on vegan cooking.

Araya's Place - U-District
Araya's Place is a meat-free Thai restaurant, so no need to worry about fish sauce and shrimp paste sneaking onto your plate. There are several locations across the Seattle and Bellevue area, but I recommend the U-District location for the lunch buffet. They do not have mock meats, but serve traditional Thai plates with tofu or vegetables only. The Pad Thai of course is worth it!

Pizza Pi - U-District
Located near Araya's Place is a dairy-free pizza joint. Look for the small blue house with a pizza graffiti and you know you've found the right place. Besides pizza, discover the most beloved pizza-joint foods like salads, breadsticks, subs and calzones. All the salad dressings are made in house and are gluten free.

Chaco's Canyon - Greenwood | West Seattle
If you want to get your granola-munching vibes on, visit Chaco's Canyon. This was one of the first places I ate at in Seattle in the U-District - ahh the memories. That location is long gone, but not the cafe. Grain bowls, coconut lattes, kombucha on tap - this place is everything you've ever imagined about healthy dairy-free and gluten-free food. I'm a big fan of the chocolate-maca smoothie and Hippie bowl.

Wayward Cafe - U-District
Serving for more than 30 years, Wayward is a community diner that is the perfect hangover or breakfast pitstop. Breakfast is served all day and the tater tot hash is worth a try! I'm also a fan of the biscuits and gravy and the Biscuit Mountain.

Veggie Grill - Downtown, SLU
The Veggie is a west coast chain that serves vegan fast food. It's the perfect pitstop for something healthy or something greasy. I love the Sante Fe Chicken Burger served with coleslaw and the Harvest Bowl. Veggie Grill has a regular menu that also features seasonal favorites.

Highline Bar - Capitol Hill
A punk-inspired bar located on the second level of an old retail building, Highline is another notable bar food establishment in the vegan community. Live music and comedy shows occur often so check if there is a cover charge before entering. Don't waste your time on the nachos, go directly for the Pig Destroyer, a Caroline sweet bbq pulled "pork" sandwich. Holy sh*t - it is messy but finger-licking good.

Plum Bistro - Capitol Hill
Plum Bistro is probably Seattle's most popular vegan restaurant, and for good reason. It's chic and expensive but well worth the experience. The Mac-'N'-yease is my favorite starter and if you love buffalo sauce, try the Buffalo Portabello sandwich. For something extra-hearty, go for the Fresh Herb Rubbed Seitan.

Plum Sugar - Capitol Hill
The Plum chain features various establishments throughout town. For the sweeter side of life, visit Plum Sugar, a vegan dessert cafe. From ice cream sandwiches to raw bars to milkshakes, nothing is more sweet than this tiny establishment. The avocado orange blossom ice cream is worth a taste for the healthier side of sweets.

Silence-Heart-Nest Vegetarian & Vegan Cafe - Fremont
One of my favorite places in Seattle, this Hard Krishna establishment features both vegan and veg-friendly food. The only thing I've ordered here is the Western Round Up, a dish served with two sweet potato biscuits and soy sausage links topped with cashew gravy, with potatoes. This is one of my favorite meals in Seattle. Open for breakfast and lunch.

Jodee's Desserts - Location Pending
Jodees Desserts was once located in Greenlake and is now in transition to either opening a new store front or selling in stores. Jodees is a vegan, gluten-free dessert shop that sells all sorts of tasty cakes and cheesecakes. Stay posted to their website for relocation details.

What's your favorite place in Seattle? There are so many amazing vegan places in Seattle that these are our classic favorites, but stay posted as we'll post more once we discover these other places.

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 My Favorite Vegan Restaurants in Seattle.

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How to Spend a Day in Sóller, Mallorca

3/6/2018

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Soller is a beautiful, ancient town set between the mountains and the shoreline in Western Mallorca. Situated amidst orange and lemon groves, Soller is a popular day trip destination from Palma de Mallorca.

Walking through the ancient cobblestone streets, history comes alive, with its first inhabitants migrating in 5200 BC the Talayotic Times. Since its origins, Soller suffered many attacks from Algerian Moorish Pirates, resulting in countless battles between the Moors and the Christians. In the 1800’s, Soller became one of the leading exporters in olives and citrus fruit.

The main town is separated from the Port of Soller, but connected via tram. Note that siesta occurs in the afternoon, so it best to visit in the morning to beat the heat and experience the best of what Soller has to offer.

How to Get Here from Palma – El Tren de Soller
In 1912, the rail link from Palma to Soller was built, and in 1914 tram lines linked Soller with the Port of Soller to aide in the export of oranges. Travelers can rent a car, but I recommend taking the historic train from Palma to Soller.

Tickets are not as cheap as they used to be (approx. $35 USD), and the train ride is loud, but worth the journey from cosmopolitan Palma to quaint and quiet Soller. Sit in plush, leather vintage seats, and discover the sites of Mallorca’s back country and Tramuntana mountains packed with olive and citrus trees.

What To Do
Upon exiting the train, head to the main square, Placa Constitucio. This is the perfect place to sip on a refreshing, freshly squeeze orange juice. The many street side cafes overlook the Sant Bartomeu cathedral. Walkers be aware of oncoming traffic from the trams! Vegetarians should try the orange juice, sauteed mushrooms and tomato toast. While at the plaza, discover an architectural wonder at the Banco de Soller.

If this plaza doesn't appease your appetite. Walk down Carrer de sa Lluna where you'll find countless cafes, bakeries, grocery, art and souvenir shops.

Sant Bartomeu
This 13-Century Baroque church turned “modern” in 1904 thanks to the artwork of Joan Rubid, an ex pupil of Gaudi. It’s not the most impressive church in Mallorca, but it has its charm.

Wander Old Town
Beyond the main plaza and shopping area, discover the ancient streets and neighborhoods of Soller to admire the traditional homes, decorated with potted flowers. One of my favorite neighborhoods in Pueblo de Fornaluxt. On some residential streets, the only thing you’ll see is the cat down the road. Notable streets include Calle Isabel II, Cristofol Colom and Gran Via avenue to discover some of the best “orange money” homes in town.

If you have time, I recommend selecting from at least one the following options:

Soller Botanical Gardens
Meander through various pathways lined with lush flora and fauna from the Balearic and Canary Islands as well as Sicily, Malta, Crete, Corsica and Sardinia. Also onsite is an ecological farm and orchard aimed for studying and preserving traditional vegetable and fruit trees. The gardens also preserve frozen seeds for endangered plants.

Ecovinyassa
This citrus grove farm is one of the most precious places in Soller. It's what Soller is about - lemon and orange trees. Whether you want to sit underneath a lemon tree, or photograph the oranges, this is the place to discover the heart and soul of Soller.A reservation is required to visit the farm, but enjoy a self-guided tour and end your journey with a freshly squeeze orange juice and tapa snack. Don't go empty handed, be sure to take home a lemon or orange, jam, tea or herbal kit, made directly from Ecovinyassa's bio (organic) oranges and lemons.

Tram to Harbor
At the same arrival point, take a local tram to the Port and Soller's waterfront. The tram is approximately seven euros and takes 20 minutes each way. Here, sachet through the sandy beach or admire the harbor. The choice is yours and there is no lack of sun worshiping.

What's your favorite thing to do in Soller? Let us know!

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 Soller, Mallorca.

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10 of the Best Historical Sites & Landmarks in Colmar, France

2/19/2018

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Colmar, France is a quaint medieval town located near the German border. Colmar is a magical village that pulls every visitor’s heart strings with its fairy tale-like charm. From half-timbered homes to cobblestone streets, travelers enjoy a mix of German façade with French culture. Throughout history, the German-French border jumped up, down and around Colmar, so it’s common to see brawny locals who look German but who’s lineage is French. It’s quit spectacular and so is Colmar.

Whether in town for a day or overnight, be sure to check out some of the most prominent sites and historical museums in Colmar.

Old Town & Little Venice
Upon arrival, head to Old Town where all the magic happens. From antique shops to ancient churches, marvel over the architecture or enjoy a glass of French wine at a streetside café. Exploring Old Town will take an afternoon, or several days, depending on how much time is on the itinerary. Two places that tourists admire the most are the canals and Little Venice. Little Venice is one of the most picturesque areas in Colmar, and for the right reason. Vibrant colored buildings built alongside the Lauch River. Similar to Venice, meander alongside canal streets or take a boat ride – the choice is yours!
Important streets: Rue de la Poissonnerie & Rue Turenne

Quai de la Poissonnerie
Quai de la Poissonnerie is the old fishermonger’s district where local fishermen once lived. The used to fish and store the catch in fish ponds sold at the market. Today, the half-timbered buildings are another photogenic site, and for good reason.

Dominican Church – The Virgin of the Rosebush
Built in the 14 Century, the Gothic church showcases artwork depicting the timeline of Christ’s life including the notable Madonna of the Rosebush painted by Martin Schongauer. The church-museum contains an entry fee. Signs contain information regarding the symbolism of the painting but Mary’s cloak is red for the roses, which is unusual as its normally blue. And the roses are red to signify the Passion of Christ (his death and blood). The single white rose near Mary represents purity. The deeper you look, the more you “see” the symbolism.

Bartholdi Museum
To understand what it feels like to be American, visit the Bartholdi Museum. Augustus Bartholdi, the world-renowned sculptor, lived in this house between 1834-1904. Today, the three-story museum showcases his finest artwork from sculptures to sculpture models to blueprints. The heart of the museum includes the sculpture models for the Statue of Liberty and Lion of Belfort.

Pfister House
Once of the most remarkable homes in Colmar is the Pfister House, home to the hatter Ludwig Scherer, a man who made fortunes trading in the Val de Liepvre. Built in 1537, the exterior contains detailed artwork of biblical and secular scenes. This is the first example of the architectural renaissance in Colmar.
11 rue des Marchands 68000 Colmar

Koïfhus (Old Custom House)
This 15th Century building was once the political and economic epicenter of Colmar. Located next to the old fruit market, the ground level was a warehouse for goods and where merchants paid their import-export tax.

Eglise Saint Martin
Located in Place de la Cathédrale, is the Gothic Saint Martin Church. Founded in 1234, the church’s construction terminated in 1365. Marvel at the 15th Century stained glass and let the medieval energy soak in while lighting a candle for hope and good faith.

Eglise Saint Matthieu
Once the Protestant house of worship, the Franciscans founded Saint Matthew church in 1292. Completely almost a century later, the church closed in 1543 and converted into a hospital. Today, the church still worships Protestant teachings.

Rue des Boulangers (Bakers' street)
You can’t visit France without tasting the local pastries and desserts. One spot to discover traditional Alsace baked goods is at the Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie. The best part is that Christmas treats are available yearround, even in the dead of summer.

Kougelhopf
Speaking of treats, when in Colmar try the traditional kougelhopf, a symbol of Alsace’s heart and soul. Kougelhopf is a slightly sweet leavened bread, shaped into a cake mold, which includes almonds and raisins. Savory versions are available and don’t forget to buy a kougelhopf pan, the best souvenir of the region. Kougelhopf is available at most bakeries and Alsace food shops.

What's your favorite landmark in Colmar?

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 of the Best Historical Sites & Landmarks in Colmar, France.

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10 Must-Visit Places & Spaces in Berchtesgaden, Germany

1/31/2018

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Learning To Live Like A Local In France

1/1/2018

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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.

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.

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

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Seattle's Best: A Guide to the Best Cafes in Fremont

9/10/2017

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Fremont is one of Seattle’s last-standing neighborhoods. Though it’s been semi-gentrified, much of the main downtown area has remained intact. From quirky vintage shops to street-side cafes, bypass that Mermaid-logoed coffee shop and enjoy a cup of Joe in a real Fremont cafe. Trust me you’ll be happier here!

Coffee To Go
This tiny café serves us espresso drinks and freshly baked goods everyday. The interior charms a European flare with the chandelier being my most favorite décor. Don’t expect to sit and chat, the two tiny tables inside are there for customers to sit while drinking, not lounge. Like the name, it’s a to go café, although there are some quirky wooden, stadium-looking chairs outside to sit and chat.

Milstead & Co.
Rustic and chic, this is another local favorite that now has a new location, across the street. Tucked away on North 34th Street nearby Troll Avenue (and the notable Fremont troll), Milstead & Co has moved into a brand new space, which now boasts more chic than the good-old rustic charm (something that Seattle is losing fast thanks to redevelopment). This café uses Stumptown beans, one of Seattle’s finest!

Exploring new cafes this year #seattle #seattlenw #seattlelife #seattlefood #seattlepulse #food #food52 #foodie #foodporn #café #cafe #coffee #tealover #travel #traveler #vegan #veganfood #vegantravel #chaitea #latte #latteart #coffeeart #foodblogger #travelblog #travelgram #travelblogger

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Vif Wine | Coffee
If you love coffee and vino, head to Vif. Although many desire to mix uppers and downers, I say stick with the chai tea latte or the coffee and take a bottle of wine for home. The cool part of Vif is that you may get a fancy greeting noted on your latte.

Enjoy your day ☕️ homemade #chai #tea at vif in Fremont #seattle #seattlenw #seattlelife #seattlefood #seattlepulse #food #food52 #foodie #foodporn #café #cafe #coffee #tealover #travel #traveler #vegan #veganfood #vegantravel #chaitea #latte #latteart #coffeeart #foodblogger #travelblog

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B Fuller’s Mortar & Pestle
This artisanal modern apothecary is like a walk back into old-charm Europe, but with a modern flare. Whether you want to taste tea, purchase a cup or a bagful of dried stuff, you can find it here at B Fuller’s. Get inspired as the owner, an artist in his previous life, dresses like its 1920. It’s pretty awesome chatting with this guy and his dog is super cute. Down to earth, the mission of B Fuller’s is to inspire people to gain deeper wisdom of the plant kingdom and botanical wonders through tea and tisanes. This is not a traditional cafe, but a shop that serves freshly brewed tea.

Flying Apron
Vegans and celiac patients unite at this dairy free and gluten free café. Besides a plethora of desserts sitting behind a glass case, guests can also order food and various café drinks. The interior boasts that old-school vegan flare, a bunch of random wooden tables with some local art hanging on the walls.

Café Turko
Bright, colorful and vibrant, this establishment is part restaurant, tea and coffee house. Enjoy the all-day Turkish breakfast on the balcony during the summer and get ready to take a sniff of cardamom tea, a local favorite. Enjoy other specialties like Mintaide tea, iced apple or pomegranate tea or the Ottoman’s rose sherbet, a concoction of lemonade and rose sherbert.

The Essential Bakery and Café
Tucked away in a small brick building several blocks away from the main downtown, this bakery has a long past, occupying the original space for the Buchan Family Bakery. Menus change seasonally, due to the availability of certain berries and fruits, but don’t fear the coffee menu always stays consistent.

Lighthouse Roasters
Most people probably don’t visit this corner café unless you live in the neighborhood. The small and modest décor café proudly serves beans from several sources that have direct contact with the coffee farmers. This café supports and encourages local artists so there is something new showcased throughout the seasons. With more than 20 years in the business, Lighthouse has a loyal local following.

Café Vita
Café vita is a popular, local café and roaster with several café establishments in town. Many cafes in town also serve Vita beans, so there’s a pretty good chance you’ve tried it before heading here. Vita is located on the north end of Fremont in another small downtown area nearby Phinney Ridge. I like many of the Vita blends, with Theo and the Bistro Blend being a preference.

Fremont Coffee Company
This café is a local favorite, especially since the café is an entire house. It’s literally some people’s second home. Sip, drink and chat on the balcony or inside, the choice is yours. There is also a snug little spot downstairs nearby a moldy water fountain. Latte art is a specialty so expect to find some funky designs besides ferns and hearts.

Simply Desserts
This teeny-tiny cake shop is known for its desserts and coffee and tea second. In terms of coffee, don’t expect a Ritz Carlton brand, but a cup is a hell of a lot cheaper here than most places and a fraction of a price of a slice of cake. Plus, the cakes and cookies are sugary and delicious, perfect for an afternoon energy boost. Simply Desserts is cash only!

Stone Way Café
Part café, part bar, part music venue, Stone Way has much to offer in terms of food, drinks and entertainment. Their motto is “beer and coffee,” and there is no lack of options here alongside with quirky graffiti. This is a family-owned business and a great spot to visit eclectic locals.

Every fall I make it a goal to try new things to transition into the darker season, and today im trying the Swedish bakery I've never been to! Yum! #travel #swedish #sweden #seattle #seattlefood #pnw #pacificnorthwest #food #foodporn #foodie #vegetarian #travelblogger #travelgram #traveling #foodblogger #foodblog #mindfuleating #slowfood #europe #bakery #scandinavian #healthyfood #danish #norway #norwegian

A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on Sep 30, 2017 at 9:59am PDT

Byen Bakeri
This is Seattle’s designer Scandinavian bakery and café. Sadly, thanks to Am-holes and Amazon invading Seattle, the gentrification of our neighborhoods have lost its Scandinavian influence and charm by wiping out our old architecture, built on the backs from many Swedish and Norwegian immigrants. Besides coffee, experience a variety of native breads, cakes, sandwiches and cookies, with an American twist. Here you can find unique drinks like the London Fog, Toddy, Dopio, Cider and seasonal Egg Nog.

What's your favorite cafe in Fremont?

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 Seattle's Best: A Guide to the Best Cafes in Fremont.

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A Literary Tour of Edinburgh: A Book Lover's Haven

8/28/2017

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Edinburgh, a literary landscape, is a city for book lovers. As a UNESCO World City of Literature, Edinburgh’s literary history has no shortage of book-related landmarks, museums, bookshops and notable coffee shops where authors made a special appearance. This literary tour will walk through some of the most historical sites and places known to the famous Scottish poets, writers and authors.

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.

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.

The Conan Doyle
This traditional pub is most notable for being close to the original birthplace of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes. Located nearby is Picardy Place, where the author was born on May 22, 1859. Today, a statue of Holmes stands erected, opposite of his birthplace. The food serves up traditional Scottish cuisine, but thankfully there are several options for vegetarians.

The Royal Mile & Adam Smith Statue
If you can imagine the creepy feelings you get while walking through a cemetery on Hallow’s Eve, that is exactly how the Royal Mile feels, specifically at night. The medieval architecture inspired plenty of writers, including James Hogg’s Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner.

Look out for Anchor Close, a crusty old lane located off the Royal Mile as this was the birthplace of the first-ever published Encyclopedia Britannica in 1768.

Near St. Gile’s Cathedral is the Adam Smith statue. In 1776, Smith published The Wealth of Nations which gave birth to the free market in economics. Smith is buried a few hundred meters away in Canongate Kirkyard. Here, discover a statue dedicated to the poet, Robert Fergusson at the gates.

The Scottish Poetry Library
Nearby the Royal Mile is the Scottish poetry library, a unique national resource for poetry. Beyond poems, discover an array of books, events and dust-collectors for purchase like poetry mugs.

Burns Monument on Calton Hill, Edinburgh Taken by user:Supergolden - Taken by user:Supergolden

Burns Monument
In 1812, Mr. John Forbes Mitchell in Bombay proposed the idea to erect a monument dedicated to the notable poet, Robert Burns. In 1819, a committee gathered at Free Mason’s Tavern in London and in 1824 John Flaxman R.A. was directed to construct the monument. He was one of the finest sculptors during that era. The monument is on Queen’s Street in the Scottish National Portrait Gallery.

Robert Louis Stevenson Sites
Stevenson is the prolific author of the world-renowned, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. At 17 Heriot Row is the childhood home where the Stevenson family moved to in 1857 when Robert was seven years old. The Mound is an architectural piece created from the rubble of Nor’ Loch. The façade had a “split personality,” which may have contributed to the Jekyll and Hyde persona. The famous criminal Deacon Brodie also provided inspiration for Jekyll & Hyde, who was highly regarded cabinet maker and citizen but a burglar at night in hopes to pay off his debt. It is said Stevenson owned a Brodie Cabinet. Experience more at Lawn Market and Brodie’s Close.

Looking to use this travel article offline? Download this A Literary Tour of Edinburgh: A Book Lover's Haven on the gpsmycity.com app today!

What's your favorite literary spot in Edinburgh? Let us know! Let's connect!
Looking for other things to do in Edinburgh?

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 A Literary Tour in Edinburgh, Scotland

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A Guide to the Best Cafes in Seattle's Queen Anne Neighborhood

8/13/2017

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Queen Anne is a family-friendly neighborhood located north of downtown Seattle. Here, you'll find a variety of interesting characters and families roaming around the neighborhood. Queen Anne is divided into two sections, Upper and Lower Queen Anne. Thanks to modernization, Lower Queen Anne is a cluster of goofy-looking box and glass apartments, with a few rare old buildings left, clinging for its life. Upper Queen Anne where most of the families live and here you'll find a blend of historic businesses alongside modern establishments.

The coffee culture represents the neighborhood, a blend of the old and new. Although the new is gaining momentum, there's still some old-world charm establishments still left. But if there's one thing these two worlds have in common, its that a high standard for good, quality coffee is a must. And luckily vegans have no problem finding soy or almond milk at nearly every establishment.

Lower Queen Anne aka Uptown

http://sprudge.com/seattles-craftworks-coffee-staying-local-changing-neighborhood-105324.html

Craftworks Coffee
Craftworks Coffee features a rotational list of artisan coffees from various Pacific Northwest roasters. With a fine selection of teas and hand-crafted brewing methods, explore a wide range of menu items from cold brews to herbal teas. My favorite is the strawberry and peach tea, but whatever you fancy, the cafe is chic, clean and bustling with freelancers poking away on mac laptops.

Nielsen's Pastries
If you'd like something sweet to go with your coffee, head to Nielsen's, a Dutch bakery, in business since 1965. This is a place to find locals and affordable coffee and treats. Tucked away on 2nd Avenue West, it's easy to miss Nielsens unless you discover the sidewalk sign decorated with Dutch flags. Experience gluttony with the "potato," a cream-filled pastry wrapped in marzipan and dunked in Dutch cocoa powder. Most say it's like consuming heaven on earth and best washed down with a cup of Olympia Roasted coffee. I love the decor as it feels like a walk back into 1970's Europe.

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A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:08pm PDT

La Marzocco
La Marzocco is a coffee-maker company that now has a cafe inside the KEXP building. The cafe features over-priced coffee, but you pay for the atmosphere. With comfy couches located under street-side cafe lights, hipster congregate here for the cool-vibes atmosphere and the occasional live music jazz or jam session. I find the espresso to be like crack, it's so strong I'm strung out for days.

tripadvisor.com

Uptown Espresso
The beloved Uptown Espresso is one of Lower Queen Anne's long-standing coffee establishments. My first experience here is when they dripped the coffee through coffee filters. Enraged with anger, the next time I went there they told me they accidentally messed up the bean to water ratio and so basically I drank four shots of espresso. Yikes, but, after that mistake all has been good. The inside is basic a mix of various sized wooden tables next to walls decorated with European-style fine art. It's the perfect place to grab a cup of Joe before hopping on a bus downtown.

Caffe Zingaro
This LQA cafe is tucked away on a corner adjacent to the Seattle Center. Known for it's tea selection and local pastries, Caffe Zingaro keeps Queen Anne buzzing with odd-concoctions like a Cuban latte and golden milk-inspired flavors. I'm not sure about turmeric coffee, but everything is worth trying once!

Tully's
One of the last remaining Tully's is located in Queen Anne. Although I am not a fan of mainstream establishments, I like Tully's as the people are friendly and it's what is left of this regional chain before Starbuck's bought them out.

Upper Queen Anne

One of my favorite #cafe in #seattle ☕️ #wanderer #wanderlust #seattlenw #seattlelife #seattlefood #travel #traveling #travelblog #travelgram #travelstagram #coffeetime #coffeelover #tea #cafegratitude #pnw #pacnw #vegantravel #blogging #coffee #lifestyle #cafelatte

A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on May 15, 2017 at 7:43pm PDT

S&L Coffee
Previously named Bustle, new owners have revamped the menu and now offers ice cream alongside the traditional coffee and pastry options. Discover rare flavors like the London Fog and lavender and blueberry ice cream.

https://www.yelp.com/biz/coffeemind-seattle

Coffee Mind Cafe
Located on the slope of Queen Anne, is this Turkish coffeehouse and boutique. Eat, drink and shop your way into the heart of the Mediterranean. Besides Turkish Coffee, Coffee Mind features a variety of teas, American and Turkish pastries and cold food and beverages. Whether you're looking for home textiles or a Turkish tea cup set, cafe-goers experience the best of both worlds, the east and the west.

http://reluctantentertainer.com/

Storyville Coffee
As my Polish friend says, "Storyville is the cadillac of cafes in Seattle." He's in love with everything about the flavor of the beans. Storyville has several locations in Seattle and is a privately-owned company. Storyville donates to reputable organizations who help fight human trafficking.

http://markpattison.blogspot.com/2008_02_01_archive.html

Caffe Fiore
This beloved organic cafe is a place to mingle with locals enjoying a latte and the sun on the adirondack chairs. All coffee is brewed from 100% organic coffee beans, which ignites a flavor that locals are obsessed with.

https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/le-r%C3%AAve-bakery-and-caf%C3%A9-seattle-4?select=LuP7CnGTRkj6WZ6xrS7B2A

La Reve
For a taste of Paris, head to La Reve for a coffee and a french pastry. The old-world charm transports you back to what Paris used to be like. The pastries aren't cheap, but well worth every penny. I recommend the almond croissant. Located in a house on Queen Anne Avenue, during the summer enjoy the Seattle sun on the front patio.

seattlepowersearch.com

El Diablo
If the devil worships anything, it's this place. Equipped with potent coffee and vegan-friendly treats, El Diablo is one of the most popular cafes in Queen Anne. There is no shortage of colorful chairs, quirky artwork or mac laptops that hog almost every table.

cafeladro.com

Cafe Ladro
Cafe Ladro has an upper and a lower Queen Anne location. The first Ladro location opened in Queen Anne in 1994. With several locations around town, Ladro expanded their business to become a roaster in 2011. There is no shortage of baked good options, including several vegan-friendly sweets. The only thing I do not like about Ladro is that the Upper Queen Anne location plays the music so damn loud. Seating is limited, but both locations offer outdoor adirondack chairs.

What's your favorite cafe in Queen Anne? Let us know!

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 Seattle's Best: A Guide to the Best Cafes in Q ueen Anne.

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How to Spend an Afternoon in Frankfurt, Germany

8/9/2017

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As Germany’s main international airport hub, Frankfurt is a popular destination for busines and international travelers who arrive with intentions of heading elsewhere. Frankfurt doesn’t attract mass tourism like Berlin, Munich and Hamburg, but still has plenty of historic sites to see in an afternoon’s time while waiting for a train or a flight. Go ahead and skip modern Frankfurt, and indulge in the history of Frankfurt am Main.

Schindler’s Memorial Plaque
Adjacent to the Hauptbanhof is the home of where Oskar Schindler, the man who saved 1,200 Jews at Auschwitz, lived between 1965 and 1974. On the facade, a plaque rests in honor of his bravery in World War II.
Am Hauptbahnhof 4, Frankfurt am Main, Hessen, Germany

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A post shared by Elizabeth Kovar (@erkovar) on Jun 10, 2017 at 10:28pm PDT

Goethehaus - Goethe’s Home and Museum
On August 28, 1749, at the strike of midday, or twelve, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe was born. This is the home where Johann and his sister Cornelia. Goethe is known as the “Shakespeare of Germany,” and is one of the most prolific writers in western civilization. In 1733, Goethe’s grandmother purchased the home. The house was destroyed during the war and rebuilt with original belongings. The museum is insight into Goethe’s life and a walk through 18th Century aristocratic luxury. Visitors will see everything from a 1700’s kitchen to Goethe’s writing desk. The museum is a must visit and nearly one mile from Hauptbanhof.

Altstadt – Old Town
Cute, quaint and small, Altstadt is one of the few remaining historical areas in Frankfurt and is a short walk from Goethe’s home. No matter what Old Town you visit while in Germany, Altstadt is the center of where every city began. Frankfurt’s beginnings date back to 794, but sadly, because of World War II only part of the Old Town has been preserved. The Römerberg is the central square where you’ll discover ancient buildings and German restaurants and cafes.

Eat lunch or grab a coffee at Haus Wertheym, an authentic German restaurant serving traditions since 1479. Not only is the food excellent, with plant-based options, inside contains an array of historic artifacts from ancient pots to weathered signs. During the late spring and early summer, order the white asparagus soup, a German favorite.

Kaiserdom Sankt Bartholomäus – St. Bartholomew Church
This is the most impressive imperial church in the city. The church was built during the 14th and 14th Century and the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire were crowned here.

Alte Nikolaikirche and Paulskirche are two other noteworthy churches located in Altstadt.

Riverfront Promenade & Old Bridges
Frankfurt am Main refers to the river that flows through the city. There are eight bridges in Frankfurt with Alte Brücke ("Old Bridge"), the 11th Century bridge and the 1868 Eiserner Steg ("Iron bridge") tied for first place in popularity. Walk the promenade or take a river cruise, the choice is yours but hanging out here is a way to see the locals enjoy simple and thoughtful living.

From here retire your afternoon by walking back to the train station to catch your train, bus or flight. I completed this itinerary in four hours, while spending one hour at the Goethehaus.

What's your favorite Frankfurt site or landmark?

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 an Afternoon in Frankfurt, Germany.

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A Guide to the Best Cafes in Seattle's Queen Anne Neighborhood

Lower Queen Anne aka Uptown

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How to Spend an Afternoon in Frankfurt, Germany

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a feel good travel blog

The sacred spots of Lhasa to restore your soul

Lose Yourself Without Getting Lost

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Lower Queen Anne aka Uptown

Upper Queen Anne

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It’s like having a personal tour guide, for a fraction of the price.