Travelogue - Rothenburg Ob Der Tauber

Fairy Tale Town was the first thought that flashed through my head when I chanced upon photos of Rothenburg. "I have to figure out how to get there" was the next though that followed. Turned out getting there from Nuremberg was a piece of cake. Hence, another day trip ensued.

Travelogue - Zugspitz; Top of Germany

Conquered the highest peak in Germany in October 2015. I didn't exactly climb to the top of it... rather, I got there by cable car. Froze my butt off that day but the view more than made up for it. 

Located a few hours away from Munich, Zugspitz was an easy day trip. It was -1 degrees the day we went and there were scatters of snow, which I feel added to the magic of the mountain. 

Travelogue - Munich

Munich has been on my travel list for the longest time and I finally made it to the lovely city in October 2015. This was a trip years in the making. 

There was so much to see and do both in Munich itself and the other cities/towns that surrounded it. We spent 5 days in Munich and I still feel like I haven't done all that there is to do. 

Travelogue - Ireland, Cliffs of Moher

Have barely touched my Europe trip for last year and I'm already done with my second trip. Just last week, I found myself in the gorgeous country of Ireland for the last few days. Took a day trip out to the cliffs of moher and was super blessed with good weather. Aka the mo(t)her of all cliffs. Lol 

Travelogue - Munich, Neuschwanstein Castle

Visited Europe in October and fell in love with Bavaria. I've already mentally listed out the next few places in Bavaria that I definitely want to visit. 

On one of the days, we took a day trip to see the acclaims Neuschwanstein Castle and the town it resides in. I can see why the castle in Sleeping Beauty was inspired by this. 

Istanbul Crossroads

The crossroads of Europe and Asia. My stay in Turkey was a definite eye-opener. Istanbul is a melting pot. I have such lovely memories associated with this country. When I read of the latest news about Turkey banning Youtube and Twitter, it makes me sad because Turkey has the potential to charm the world - with its history, people and unassuming charm.

Edinburgh; Scottish Charm

It dawned upon me that I've yet to write about Edinburgh. 

A city where every cobbled turn takes you to yet another precious sight. Edinburgh was a spur of the moment decision. I love everything that has to do with the UK. But Edinburgh, opened up a whole new dimension of awe and appreciation in me. 

Edinburgh is by far one of the most charming cities I've set foot in. The vibe, the history, the Scottish brogues and the friendly locals. Even the weather was beyond beautiful.  

Travelogue - La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona

Before I went to Spain, I had never even heard of Gaudi. I must admit that I did not have much exposure to the world of art. Sure, I knew who all the famous people where, and I'd heard of all the famous paintings. But I just didn't get it. And it did take effort and a lot of understanding on my part, before I was able to appreciate the beauty behind an art piece. Sometimes I still struggle, but I'm slowly learning. 

If you venture into the city of Barcelona, his structures are everywhere. Buildings have been designed to reflect nature. When I first saw Sagrada Familia, I was in awe. I stopped in my tracks, the admire the size and grandeur of it. 

Travelogue - Nou Camp, Barcelona

Now, if you are an avid football fan, no visit to Spain is complete without visiting Nou Camp. The largest football stadium in Europe. Imagine playing before a home crowd. If you are the opposing team, I'd say that it provides a pretty daunting experience. The stadium is well over 60 years old and Barcelona being Barca, has well, a rich history. 

Travelogue - Seville, Spain

Laid back lazy days were spent mulling around in Seville. I have a love hate relationship with Spain. I adore the pace of life there. You feel as though you're just floating through. Late breakfasts and even later dinners. And the food. 

Seville is a city with narrow paths (sometimes so small that it leaves me in awe of how drivers manage to navigate through them). At night, the river lights up with cafes, music and dance. 

Travelogue - Madrid, Spain

I first started this blog as a way to slowly pen down on my exchange memories and for it to serve as a platform for me to look back on photos. I have too many on Facebook. Its much easier to look through a few that represent what the city is to me. While I'm struggling to find time to continuously pen down my thoughts because of my increasing work load, when I do find time to do so, its like taking a little trip down memory lane. It instils a yearning so strong. Day after day, I wished that I had the resources or the opportunities to simply book an air ticket to see more of the world. But till that day comes (if ever) I shall settle for my sporadic trips down memory lane.

My first stop in Spain was to the capital city of Madrid. I must say that I was expecting more from Madrid. Shopping wise, its lovely. But I'm not much of a shopper. 

Maybe we didn't plan our stay in Madrid properly, or maybe the city was not for me. Nonetheless, there were places that had their appeal. Photo below was taken while randomly strolling around the city.

Travelogue - Kutná Hora, Czech Republic

While in Prague, we took a day trip out to the town of Kutná Hora. It was a simple train ride away! 

A little background information. Kutná Hora was previously a mining town. The city has now been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site because of several buildings there. 

And here are some of the places I visited. 

First up was Sedlec Ossuary. I unfortunately can't find the photos I took of the interior! (Do a google search!) But its a Roman Catholic church that contains up to 70,000 skeletons. While a little daunting to be inside, it's definitely worth a visit. 

However, I did manage to find a picture I took of the cemetery behind the church. 

Travelogue - Prague, Czech Republic

How do I even begin to describe Prague. 

The buildings here give off a historical vibe. It feels as though you've travelled a few years back in time. To a time where you could imagine white knights roaming around the streets, the fresh smell of baking bread wafting through the air. Although Prague is full of tourists, it does not feel that way. Yeah, the shopping here is pretty decent too. ;)

Travelogue - Lyon, France

Viva la France! Lyon was my second stop stop in France. And I love this city! The pace of life is so slow and relaxing. You can literally spend the whole Sunday strolling along the riverside. 

We were in Lyon while France celebrated Bastille Day. While most shops were unfortunately closed because of that, we got to experience the charms of Lyon by simply walking along the river, going to flea markets, and roaming around the vibrant city with no aim in mind. 

Travelogue - Rome Pt 3 ( Fountains in the City)

Last entry on Rome. I've probably sang enough praises about the city already. 

Fountains have long since been a part of Rome's history and landscape. In the past, they used to provide drinking water for the people - and today, some of the still do. I can't tell you how appreciative I am of this. To be able to refill your bottle while the hot sun beats down on you and enjoy a cool drink is just so refreshing. 

Travelogue - Rome Pt 2 (Colosseo & Roman Forum)

Back with more on Rome! 

Travelogue - Rome Pt. 1 (Vatican City)

They say that all roads lead to Rome. Rome is so huge, so full of attractions, that I decided midway to split this post into parts. 

Rome to me, is a city that I would love to go back again. There's something special about the cobbled pathways, the bustle of city life, the faint smell of pasta and pizza, and being surrounded by ancient Roman architect that draws me to not only Rome, but Italy in general. 

Rome being the capital of Italy, is bustling with tourists and locals, business people and students, the elderly and the young. Rome is also home to the only sovereign state - The Vatican City. 

Travelogue - Venice, Italy

Needless to say, I was brimming with excitement about going to Venice. To ride on a gondola along the many canals, weaving through buildings and under bridges. To get lost in the maze that is Venice, winding through narrow paths and into little alleys. To admire the many masks and costumes, and the breath-taking scenery that this city has to offer. To walk through San Marco Square and admire the rich history of Venice.

Travelogue - Florence, Italy

If you haven't guessed by now, it's Italy time. Florence is impossible to not fall in love with. The city is so rich in the renaissance era. The city is scattered with various museums each specialising in a certain area. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the oldest Museums in Florence and is home to some of the most astounding pieces of art. I believe I took more than 3 hours to cover this whole museum.