Cesky Krumlov castle, Czech Republic – National Geographic calls the UNESCO Heritage Town of Cesky Krumlov "one of the most beautiful historic destinations in the world” and we agree! And highlighting its splendour is the Castle, with live bears in its dry moat, the wonderfully preserved interiors and lovingly detailed collection of period furnishings, musical instruments, armour and art.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic – The largest ancient castle in the world, the Prague castle looms over the city. Inside it’s a world in itself with churches, gardens and royal residences. St. Vitus Cathedral is known for its stained glass windows and the tomb of St. John of Nepomuk. For an unforgettable experience, take a stroll roughly around midnight.
Ljubljana Castle, Slovenia – A fortification built as early as the 9th century, the spectacular Ljubljana Castle sits atop a hill, keeping an eye on the city. Take the funicular up, climb the viewing tower for sweeping views of Ljubljana, take a virtual history tour, see million year old rock fossils and admire the St. George’s Chapel with its 15th century frescoes. It’s the best of Slovenian history in an easy trip.
Poreč's Euphrasian Basilica, Croatia – A UNESCO Heritage Site, it is an architectural delight. The glittering Byzantine mosaics will take your breath away, while the cathedral’s sculpted marble columns from Constantinople stun you in all their glory.
Idrija, Slovenia – Admire Idrija’s beautiful collection of Bobbin lace worked napkins, bed linen, curtains, dresses, necklaces, earrings and more. Visit the Municipal museum Idrija, Lace School Idrija and the Interational Centre of Idrija Lace to know more about the origins of this exquisite art. And shop of course!
Bobowa, Poland – Bobbin lace from Bobowa has put this small village on the international circuit. Hit the Gallery of Bobbin Lace to see these intricate creations and watch lace makers ply their craft. Better still, come during the Festival of Bobbin Laces to see lace products from Slovakia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Belgium, Spain, Russia, France, Austria, Germany, Hungary and Poland.
Pag, Croatia – The Pag Lace Gallery is as lovely as its exhibits. The restored Ducal Palace is the perfect setting to showcase the unbelievably skilful designs of the town. The gallery also gives you a quick lesson on the history of lacemaking in Pag.
Budapest, Hungary – The Secret Emergency Hospital Museum, the Post Museum, Underground Railway Museum, Labyrinth of Buda Castle, Fire Brigade Museum; Budapest’s museum are as extra-ordinary as the city itself.
Nuclear Bunker Museum, Prague – Located underground, it is replete with paraphernalia that include gas masks, uniforms et al. Chills down your spine guaranteed.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp, Poland – This site is emblematic of the systematic mass murder of millions of people. From the ironic inscription on the main gate “Arbeit macht Frei” (work makes you free) to the inhuman gas ‘showers’, the Auschwitz complex was intended to dehumanize and degrade prisoners at every step. Be prepared for gut wrenching stories, traumatizing displays of personal effects, soul crushing concrete punishment rooms and the odd display of spirit & courage. It is travel that opens your mind and bruises your soul. All the more reason to do it.
