Blog - Culture, Arts & Architecture

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Culture, Arts & Architecture

City breaks

This ancient temple in Laos is a worthy rival to Angkor Wat - minus the crowds of tourists

In the shadow of the fame of Cambodia's Angkor Wat, in southern Laos, hides an architectural marvel of equally impressive history and beauty - Vat Phou. This ancient Khmer temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an unforgettable archaeological experience without the overwhelming crowds of tourists that characterize its more famous cousin. Situated picturesquely at the foot of Phou Kao Mountain, overlooking the Mekong Valley, Vat Phou Temple provides an excellent alternative for travelers seeking an authentic exposure to the region's history and culture, while maintaining the tranquility and atmosphere that allows one to truly appreciate the majesty of this ancient place of worship.

City breaks

Mardi Gras: a New Orleans festival that dates back to antiquity

Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, is one of the most colorful and exciting holidays in the world, reaching its peak in New Orleans. This unique festival, which combines religious, cultural and social elements, has roots dating back to the ancient celebration of fertility and spring. Today, Mardi Gras is synonymous with colorful parades, elaborate costumes, traditional masks, jazz music and a unique atmosphere that attracts tourists from all over the world. Although the main celebration lasts only one day, the spirit of Mardi Gras can be felt in New Orleans all year round, especially in dedicated museums that allow you to immerse yourself in this fascinating tradition.

City breaks

Provenance x Lavender: museums in the south of France dedicated to the purple plant

Provenance is a land where the history of lavender dates back to ancient times, and its intense fragrance and color have become a symbol of the region. In the south of France, there are unique museums dedicated to this aromatic plant that allow you to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of lavender cultivation and distillation. From antique alembics dating back to the 16th century to modern methods of essential oil production, each of these places offers a unique look at Provence's purple treasure. By visiting these museums, you can not only learn about traditional techniques and tools, but also experience a multidimensional journey through the culture, history and nature of the region, where lavender has played a key role for centuries.

City breaks

Bermuda Day: A one-day holiday in honor of Queen Victoria that became a month-long celebration

Bermuda Day is a unique holiday, which was originally intended as a one-day commemoration of Queen Victoria, but has evolved into a month-long celebration of the culture, history and heritage of this fascinating archipelago. While the origins of the holiday date back to colonial times, today it provides an excellent opportunity to explore sites associated with Bermuda's British heritage, including impressive fortifications, picturesque parks and other structures bearing royal names. By exploring these sites, you can trace the impact the Victorian era had on Bermuda's architecture, culture and identity, while enjoying the natural beauty of this paradise island.

City breaks

La Mamounia: a legendary hotel in Marrakech that boasts a unique history

In the heart of bustling Marrakech, behind the walls of the old city, lies a true jewel of Moroccan architecture and luxury - La Mamounia. This legendary hotel, which celebrated its centennial in 2023, is not just a place to stay, but a true institution that over the decades has hosted the world's most important personalities, from Winston Churchill to Hollywood stars. Combining traditional Moroccan design with Art Deco elements, surrounded by lush gardens covering 15 acres, La Mamounia offers its guests a journey back in time to an era when travel was an art, and luxury was defined by authenticity and craftsmanship.

City breaks

Vermelho: Christian Louboutin's Portuguese hotel is an artistic gem

In the picturesque Portuguese village of Melides, in the Alentejo region, a hotel has been created that is more than just a place to stay - it is a true work of art. Vermelho Hotel Melides, the first hotel project by famous shoe designer Christian Louboutin, opened its doors in April 2023, immediately attracting the attention of luxury, design and art lovers from around the world. The five-star boutique property is a tribute to Portuguese craftsmanship and creativity, where every element has been carefully designed to create a harmonious whole celebrating local culture and traditions. Vermelho, which means 'red' in Portuguese - a color inextricably linked to the Louboutin brand - is a place where luxury meets authenticity and modern design meets centuries-old heritage.

Poland

Court Café: an exceptional café in Warsaw by the tennis court itself in the just-right 'old-money'aesthetics

In the heart of Warsaw, where tradition meets modernity, hides an exceptional place for lovers of coffee, tennis and refined style. Court Café is not just a café - it is a real gem combining sporty spirit with 'old-money' style elegance, transporting guests to a world of luxury and good taste. Located next to the tennis courts, it offers a unique experience where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mixes with the atmosphere of an exclusive sports club. It's the perfect place for both those seeking a moment of respite after a match, as well as those who want to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of one of the most stylish cafes in the capital.

City breaks

If you like Wes Anderson's aesthetics then you'll like the place by the very Polish border where The Grand Budapest Hotel was filmed

On the very edge of Germany, just a few steps from the Polish border, stands a building that transports visitors to another dimension of space-time. Kaufhaus Görlitz is not only one of the best-preserved department stores from the early 20th century, but also a place that captivated Wes Anderson himself enough to make it the main setting of his film 'The Grand Budapest Hotel'. This architectural jewel in the Art Nouveau style, with its lavishly decorated staircases, elaborate chandeliers and ornate glass dome, is a veritable feast for lovers of the famous director's aesthetics. If you've ever dreamed of stepping into the world of symmetrical frames, pastel colors and nostalgic elegance characteristic of Anderson's films, Kaufhaus Görlitz is a must-visit place.

England

Outernet: a brilliant interactive installation in London that is too little talked about

In the heart of London, off busy Charing Cross Road, lies a technological marvel that is changing the way we experience art, entertainment and advertising. Outernet London is the world's largest digital gallery, set to delight visitors with its grandeur and innovation from November 2022. Combining cutting-edge technology with respect for historical heritage, this unique complex offers unforgettable immersive experiences that transport visitors to entirely new worlds. Despite its uniqueness, Outernet still remains a relatively unknown attraction in London, deserving much more attention from tourists and residents of the British capital alike.

City breaks

Trabant Museum in Dresden: get to know the symbol of the GDR's 'technological backwardness'

The Trabant - a plastic car with the distinctive sound of a two-stroke engine that became a symbol of the economic and technological isolation of the German Democratic Republic. It is to this unusual vehicle, which, despite its many flaws, has gained cult status, that the Trabant Museum in Dresden is dedicated. This place allows you to take a fascinating trip back in time to the era when millions of East German citizens dreamed of owning a 'Trabant', waiting for it for years in queues. The museum presents not only the history of the production of this unique car, but also its enormous cultural and social significance, which goes far beyond the purely automotive aspects.

Germany

Theater Cuvilliés in Munich: a Pearl of Rococo Architecture

Theater Cuvilliés in Munich is a true pearl of Rococo architecture, which has delighted visitors with its beauty and richness of detail for more than 250 years. Considered one of the most beautiful rococo theaters in Europe, this unique building is not only a testament to the artistry of 18th-century architects and craftsmen, but also an important part of Bavaria's cultural heritage. Join us on a fascinating journey through the history, architecture and cultural significance of this remarkable site, which remains today a living testament to its former splendor and artistic genius.

Germany

Marienmünster in Diessen: Pearl of Baroque in the Heart of Bavaria

Marienmünster in Diessen, a pearl of Baroque architecture in the heart of Bavaria, is a fascinating place that combines a rich history, impressive architecture and extraordinary cultural heritage. This 18th-century monastery church, with its ornate altars, gilded carvings and detailed frescoes, is a true feast for the eyes and spirit. For travelers on a budget, Marienmünster offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in German history and admire a masterpiece of Baroque style.

England

Odeon: Meet the cinema where the pre-premieres of all parts of Harry Potter with the stars of the series took place

In the heart of bustling London, in the famous Leicester Square, there is a place that has been attracting movie lovers from all over the world for years. The ODEON Luxe Leicester Square is not just an ordinary cinema - it is a true temple of cinematic entertainment that has made history as the place where the magic of cinema meets the magic of Harry Potter. It was here that the pre-premieres of all parts of the series about the young wizard took place, gathering stars, fans and creating unforgettable memories for thousands of viewers. Let's get to know more about this unique venue, which combines tradition with modernity, offering cinemagoers an experience that goes far beyond a mere movie screening.

England

Gringott's bank, or the house of the High House of Australia in London, where Harry Potter had his vault

Do you dream of being transported, at least for a moment, to the magical world of Harry Potter? It turns out that you don't have to go to a movie studio or theme park to feel the atmosphere of J.K. Rowling's books. In the heart of London there is a building that brings to mind the famous Gringott's Bank - this is the High Commission of Australia. This impressive edifice, although it has completely different functions from the magical Goblin Bank, is sure to spark the imagination of both younger and older fans of the series about the young wizard. We invite you on an extraordinary journey where you will discover how reality intertwines with literary fiction to create a fascinating place to visit during a family outing to the British capital.

England

Film Ministry of Magic: Scotland Place in London, where Harry Potter scenes were filmed

Welcome to a magical world hidden in the heart of London! If you are a fan of Harry Potter and dream of being transported to the wizarding world, at least for a moment, then Scotland Place is a place you absolutely must visit. It was here, in this inconspicuous street, that scenes were shot for the films about the young wizard, which forever changed the face of cinematography and children's literature. Scotland Place, home to the film's Ministry of Magic, is not only a treat for fans of the series, but also a fascinating spot on the map of London, where history mixes with fantasy and reality with magic.

Family trips

Trinity College Dublin libraries: the place that was the inspiration for the Hogwarts library

The Trinity College Dublin library is not only a treasure trove of knowledge, but a true place of magic that inspired J.K. Rowling to create the Hogwarts library. It's a place where history comes alive and every corner tells a fascinating tale of human curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge. For families planning a visit to the Irish capital, this library should be at the top of the must-see list, offering an unforgettable experience for adults and children alike.

City breaks

Castillo de Colomares: a contemporary castle dedicated to Christopher Columbus

Welcome to the fascinating world of Castillo de Colomares, an extraordinary castle located in picturesque Benalmádena on the Costa del Sol. This architectural gem, though built in modern times, takes us on a journey through history, paying homage to one of the greatest explorers of all time - Christopher Columbus. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that combines elements of history, art and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The Castillo de Colomares is not just a tourist attraction, it is a true work of art that delights adults and children alike, offering a unique educational and aesthetic experience. In this article, we will take you on a journey through the nooks and crannies of this unique place, uncovering its secrets and showing you why you should put it on your must-see list when visiting Spain.

City breaks

Pstro: one of the most exceptional places on the children's map of Warsaw

Warsaw, the vibrant heart of Poland, hides an extraordinary place that sparks the imagination of the youngest and adults alike. Pstro, as it is referred to, is not just another attraction on the map of the capital - it is a true oasis of creativity, where art meets fun, and everyone can feel like a real artist. In a world where technology often dominates traditional forms of entertainment, Pstro offers a return to the joy of creating with one's own hands, reminding us of the magic hidden in the simple gesture of painting with a brush on a canvas. This is a place that not only entertains, but also teaches, develops and inspires, becoming one of the most unique spots on the children's map of Warsaw. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure, where colors come to life and imagination knows no bounds - welcome to Pstro!