Travel Blue Book

Dream it. Plan it. Go there.

Our Visit to Mycenae: The Fortress City of Agamemnon

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The acropolis of Mycenae

When you think about Greece, visions of the Parthenon and Delphi probably jump to mind. It’s a land rich in its history of city states and great battles. As the “Cradle of Western Civilization,” Greece is the birthplace of Western art, culture, and thought.

But, in Greece, that’s all relatively new history.

It’s hard to imagine, but there was a civilization in Greece that was at the height of its power almost 1,000 years before what we think of as “Ancient Greece.” The people who lived in this bronze age settlement were as legendary to the Ancient Greeks as Plato, Socrates, and the Aristotle are to us now. And there’s one place where we can still see and imagine how these über ancients lived: Mycenae. [Read more…]

Visiting The Tower of London

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Mentioning the Tower of London conjures up images of ghastly torture chambers and gruesome beheadings. But, there's more to the Tower than that!

Royal palace? Check. Former prison? Check. Site of execution for TWO English queens? Check, check, and check!

The Tower of London is one of the most fascinating places in the history of the world. Built during the Norman Conquest, this historic castle has been served as a home to kings and queens, a jail for high-profile prisoners, and as the Royal Mint. It is also the current home of the Crown Jewels. Situated in Central London, the Tower of London is one attraction you can’t miss. Let’s dig in, shall we? [Read more…]

Racing Around Piazza Navona, Rome

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Piazza Navona is home to some of Bernini's most famous fountains, delicious deserts, and some of Rome's most enjoyable nightlife. Check it out here!

One of my favorite things about Rome, and Italy in general, are the lovely city squares which are called “piazzas.” Seriously, every town has at least one, and the bigger cities often have several. It seems that each narrow, character filled alleyway winds its way into a lively open living room, a meeting place for locals and tourists alike. Typically filled with beautiful fountains built in front of  incredible churches, Rome’s piazzas are a feast for the senses. It’s like Christmas Day for first time travelers, with a new gift to unwrap around each corner.

And so it is with Piazza Navona. This large piazza sits in the heart of Central Rome, serving as a gathering place for local revelers and hungry tourists alike. Known for its oval shape and ornate fountains, here you can watch offbeat street artists creating works of art while enjoying some of the city’s best gelato. So, let’s dig in and and find out what makes Piazza Navona so special, shall we? [Read more…]

Visit the White and Blue of Santorini, Greece

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Come explore Santorini, Greece - where the brilliant blue waters of the Mediterranean stretch from the rocky cliffs and glimmering white buildings above.When you think of Greece, what comes to mind? Likely not the comforting ache of muscles that have worked hard to take you up and down the little streets that waltz up and down and back and forth across the hillsides. No.

You probably think of glimmering, pure white buildings, reflecting the bright sun to a point of blinding, generously sprinkled by the hundreds along the cliff-like coast. The coast, where the brilliant blue water stretches away from the red and green cliffs, providing a home for sailboats and ships of all colors.

That is Santorini, Greece. [Read more…]

Exploring The Pantheon: History’s Most Important Building

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The Roman Pantheon is arguably the most important building in the history of architecture. It’s magnificent dome has served as the inspiration for many other buildings, including the Florence Duomo, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the U.S. Capitol Building. The building itself is almost entirely intact, allowing modern visitors the opportunity to experience the grandeur of Ancient Rome from over 2,000 years ago. [Read more…]

Visiting Michelangelo’s Statue of David

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Michelangelo's statue of David is one of the world's greatest masterpieces. Here's how to see the statue the next time you visit Florence.The Italian Renaissance brought about an explosion of great art, cultural change, and new ideas. Nowhere was this more present than in Florence. Through the backing of the wealthy Medici family, Florence produced such great artists as Donatello, Raphael, Leonardo, and Botticelli. Still, no artist is more celebrated than Florence’s favorite son, Michelangelo. His greatest work, the statue of David, remains in Florence to this Day. [Read more…]

Stonehenge Facts, Fictions, and Mysteries

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Who on Earth would want to see a giant pile of rocks?

Perhaps the most famous monument on Earth, visiting Stonehenge should be on your bucket list. These Stonehenge facts will make your visit more memorable.

You should.

Stonehenge is probably the most famous prehistoric site on Earth. Show anybody a photo of this sacred place, and they’ll immediately know what it is. Still, until you grasp some basic Stonehenge facts, you’ll probably just think that its just a bunch of cool looking rocks. But once you understand what it’s all about, visiting Stonehenge will be an awe-inspiring experience. [Read more…]

The Island of Capri, Italy: Basking in Beauty

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For centuries, the Island of Capri, Italy has been the playground for emperors and billionaires alike. And, it’s easy to see why. With its turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking views, Capri is easily one of the most beautiful places in the world. The fresh scent of lemon groves fills the air, while movie stars and business moguls move around without so much as a second glance in their direction. But Capri isn’t just for the wealthy. This island of pleasure makes a perfect day trip for any traveler near Rome or the Amalfi Coast.

Capri 2

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Touring the Greek Islands on a Mediterranean Cruise

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Touring the Greek Islands is the stuff of traveler's dreams. Why not take a cruise and discover all the beautiful scenery and ouzo they have to offer?If you have always dreamed about traveling to Greece, you probably picture seeing the beautiful white and blue buildings dotting the side of a sea front cliff while sipping on a cool glass of ouzo. Luckily, touring the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete will give you that very picturesque view and a most memorable experience. There are many inclusive tours available today, making it easy for travelers with all kinds of budgets to touch, taste, and see the natural beauty of this Mediterranean gem. [Read more…]