EuroTravelogue™

Strolling Through the Village of Edam in The Netherlands

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Thu, 24 May 2012 13:06:00 +0000

Welcome to Edam, The Netherlands. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Quaint and charming doesn't begin to describe the scenic Dutch countryside in the little village of Edam in The Netherlands. Cobbled streets, storied architecture and picturesque canals spanned by centuries-old drawbridges, can be found throughout Edam—every scene a picture-perfect postcard! Oh, and let's not forget its world-renowned and mighty tasty Edam cheese! Upon arriving in nearby Volendam aboard the Viking River Cruises longship, Viking Odin, we were whisked off to 13th-century Edam which is located only a few miles from Volendam and just 13 miles or 22 km outside the bustling city of Amsterdam. Edam / Volendam are an easy 30-minute jaunt that you must make time for if you're planning to visit The Netherlands. Join me on this escorted trip through Edam and I promise to return to Volendam in an upcoming post.

An enchanting walk along the canals in Edam reveals picture-perfect moments such as this. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

History

Located in Noord Holland or North Holland province of The Netherlands, the village of Edam is steeped in maritime tradition and history dating back to 1230 when the first dam in the River IJ or E (E-dam) was constructed. From that moment on, Edam prospered through the centuries thriving on its shipbuilding, herring trading and, of course, cheese industries making it one of the most prominent European trade ports of the day. Although prosperity reigned, Edam endured periodic flooding from the Zuiderzee or North Sea bay throughout history and despite numerous attempts to combat the ongoing deluges, the floods continued. One particular measure put in place resulted in the silting up of Edam's harbor and thus ended its shipbuilding and herring-trading industries. Thankfully, Edam still had its cheese production and markets to fuel its economy. And that legacy continues to thrive today and drive traders and tourists alike to this quaint Dutch village.

Glancing over the top of this very tall fence, I managed to capture this shot of Dutch clogs still worn by many in the countryside. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

In 1932, the Afsluitdijk Works project erected a dam cutting off the North Sea once and for all which not only eradicated the threat of flooding but transformed the saltwater body of water to its south into the largest fresh water lake in Western Europe—the Ijsselmeer (pronounced eye-sill-meer). Then in 1975, Ijsselmeer was bisected with the completion of the Markerwaarddijk or Houtribdijk dam thus forming the Markermeer Sea to the south. We sailed upon both of these seas or lakes during our Viking voyage from Amsterdam to Volendam. Amazingly enough, their average depth is only 4-6 meters but you would never know it when their waters are below your keel. It's like being on a sea voyage replete with seagulls too! Spectacular!

Scenic Edam canals are lined with centuries-old houses. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Edam, The Netherlands Today

Today, the village of Edam is primarily an Amsterdam bedroom community of 7,300 residents however when you visit, it's like stepping back in time to the 16th and 17th centuries when Edam was at the height of its prosperity with much of its architecture still intact. Here are a few of the not-to-be-missed sights.

Walking down the cobbled streets of Edam is like stepping back in time to the 16th and 17th centuries. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Hotel De Fortuna

Welcome to the Hotel De Fortuna in Edam, The Netherlands. At one time, the buildings housed a school and the schoolmaster's residence. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

This picturesque hotel caught my eye as soon as we came upon this enchanting retreat nestled along Edam's canals. Dating back to the 17th century, the buildings of the Hotel de Fortuna housed a school in the "Great Cabin" as it's known presently, and the school master's residence in the "Little Cabin." Today, you will find quaint and charming accommodations for about $110 per night including daily breakfast. Had I planned to stay awhile longer in Edam, I absolutely would have considered this!

The Edam Museum

The Edam Museum, built in 1530, imagine almost 500 years ago, contains a floating cellar. Be sure to watch the video footage below. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The Edam Museum—one of the oldest brick houses in the village of Edam was built in 1530 as a private home and wasn't converted to a museum until 1895. The step-gabled rooftop reflects one of the earlier styles of Dutch architecture and the building itself is punctuated with striking red shutters. Inside, the interior preserves much of the 16th-century layout and décor but one remarkable feature of this historic building is its "floating" cellar. Steeped in local lore, the house was built by a sailor who missed the sea so much, he built a floating floor in his cellar; however he probably built it to keep goods dry when the floods from the North Sea deluged the village. Check out this short video of the "bobbing" cellar floor. Quite awesome actually.

The Carillon and Church of Our Dear Lady

Church of Our Dear Lady in Edam. Although most of the church was demolished in 1882, the 15th-century tower and carillon remain standing today. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

According to Edam records, a church dedicated to Our Dear Lady has been standing on this hallowed ground since the 14th century. Most of the church was demolished in 1882 however, the tower remains intact and contains the oldest clockwork in the Netherlands, not to mention the carillon. Designed by Pieter van den Ghein in 1566, the carillon still rings out an enchanting melody every 15 minutes depending on the time of year and religious celebration. If you look around the back of this small church, you will see the bases upon which the 15th-century columns stood supporting the vaulted ceilings of the original church—truly fascinating.

Remnants of the original Church of Our Dear Lady in Edam. Look carefully and you will see the bases upon which the 15th-century columns stood supporting the vaulted ceilings of the original church—truly fascinating. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Church of Our Dear Lady seen from afar shows the tower and carillon that still chimes enchanting melodies every 15 minutes throughout the day. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Edam Town Hall

Edam Town Hall with its coat of arms hanging over the doorway. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Built in 1737 in Louis XIV style, you will notice that the surrounding architecture is smaller in scale giving prominence to Edam's Town Hall. Above its doorway hangs the Edam coat-of-arms comprising a bull against a red background with three golden six-pointed stars held in place by the lion. Today, the Magistrate's Court on the left as you enter the building is used for marriage ceremonies.

The Cheese Weigh House

The Cheese Weigh House, last building on the left, is where we sampled lots of savory bites of fresh Edam cheese. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Our final stop on our tour through Edam in The Netherlands was the Cheese Weigh House. While we learned a little bit about the time-honored process of making cheese, it was more of a cheese-tasting experience that we indulged due to the fact that visitors are no longer permitted to view the manufacturing process. Brimming with every possible variety of Edam cheese, I was in my glory savoring the various flavors while sipping a local wine in between.

On our way to Cheese Weigh House, scenic vistas presented themselves around every corner such as these row houses in Edam. All content is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

I hope you enjoyed your tour through Edam, The Netherlands. Below, you will find additional reading about my voyage with Viking River Cruises and the various ports of call. Plus, there's more to come.

Additional Reading:

Canal-boat Guided Tour Through Amsterdam
Fanciful Windmills of Kinderdijk
Revel in the Moments Along Your Journey
Four Viking River Cruises Longhips Christened in Amsterdam in One Day
EuroTravelogue on Youtube

ArtSmart Roundtable: A Study of the Apollo Belvedere at the Vatican Museum in Rome

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Mon, 07 May 2012 00:02:00 +0000

The Apollo Belvedere stands after 2,000 years in the Octagonal Court at the Vatican Museum in Rome. All content is the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

Welcome to ArtSmart Roundtable! Each month, my Roundtable colleagues and I share our discoveries in art while traveling around the world in hopes of igniting your curiosity so that you too, can experience the art along your journeys. Each month, we focus on one study and this month it’s “sculpture.” Throughout my travels, I have encountered numerous masterpieces, many of which I have fallen in love since my days of art history in college. While I’ve written about some of them on EuroTravelogue including Michelangelo’s “David,” the “Laocoön,” Bernini—among others—I turn back to Rome, Italy, once again for a new study of the Apollo Belvedere statue housed in the Vatican Museum. For me, I have grown to love to this statue because as soon as I saw it, I was reminded instantly of the “David.” Let’s take a closer look at the Apollo Belvedere.

Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery in Florence. This photo only: Wikipedia via David Gaya.

Ever since my first visit to Rome and the Vatican, I can never seem to spend enough time studying the thousands of sculptures throughout the museum. While impossible to see all the pieces in one day, it is possible to select a few rooms for in -depth immersion of the art within and one of my favorites stands above the rest. Located in the Octagonal Court—home Classical Antiquities—where some of the most fascinating pieces dating back 2,000 years can be seen today, the Apollo Belveder was created during a time when humanity was celebrated by the artists of the day.

As you probably know, Apollo is the god of light and music not to mention a skilled archer as well. Often identified with the sun in many a classical myth, Apollo was son to Zeus and Leto—daughter to one of the mighty Titans of ancient Greek mythology.

The Apollo Belvedere seen here dates back to the Imperial age or A.D. 130-140. All content is the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

Named by Pope Julius II for the building in which he stands, this marble Apollo Belvedere, dating back to A.D. 130-140, is actually a copy of an original Greek bronze that dates from 330-320 B.C. or the Late Classical era. Undiscovered until the 15th century, Apollo appears in magnificent form and striking physique despite the fact that his left hand and lower part of his right arm were missing. Thankfully, both have been restored by Michelangelo’s pupil Giovanni Angelo Montorsoli.

Shown just moments after releasing his fatal arrow from the bow clasped tightly in his left hand, Apollo stands “contrapposto” or a position in which one leg remains rigid while the other relaxed. Around the top of the archer’s curly locks is the strophium or a band typically warn by the nobles and gods. And softly draped over his shoulders and arms, his flowing cloak contrasts with his radiant and youthful physique—suggesting the nobility of an Olympian god. Slung over Apollo’s right shoulder is his quiver held in place by a leather strap. When viewed properly, you can’t help but notice his exquisite proportions from torso to toe while he stands in this striking pose.

Side-by-side comparison of the Apollo Belvedere on left and Michelangelo's David on right. Note the similarities in their curly locks and the differences in expressions. All content is the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.

Compare and Contrast

Although not as finely chiseled as the “David,” both appear as muscular youths standing in identical contrapposto positions. However if you look closely as their faces, you will see that Apollo’s face is somewhat softer and relaxed because he is shown in a state of relief after releasing his deathly arrow. David’s face, on the other hand, embodies the mounting tension and anticipation coursing through his veins before his fatal attack on Goliath. When viewed side by side in the close-up image above, it’s hard to believe that 1,500 years separate the “David” from the Apollo Belvedere.

Two quotes below articulate beautifully the magnificence of the Apollo Belvedere:

Romanticist Hölderlin remarked, “…the eyes observe with silent, eternal light.”
Art historian and archeologist Johann Joachim Winckelmann wrote, “Of all the works of antiquity that have escaped destruction, the statue of Apollo represents the highest ideal of art.”

Other ArtSmart Roundtable Features of the Month:

Sculpture at Clos Pegase from This Is My Happiness
Rodin in San Francisco from No Onions Extra Pickles
Roy Lichtenstein's Sculptures from A Sense of Place
Forgetting the Sculpture of Patrick Dougherty from Travellious

Please join us once again next month.

Whimsical Windmills of Kinderdijk in the Netherlands-UNESCO Site

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:07:00 +0000

Welcome to the Kinderdijk windmill complex in the Netherlands. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

When you think of Holland or the Netherlands, what is the first picture that pops into your mind? Windmills of course! While I agree that tulips and wooden shoes are high on that list as well, it’s these Dutch icons that come to mind especially after my visit to Kinderdijk (pronounced kinder-dike), a small village located between the Lek and Noord Rivers in the Netherlands—approximately 16 km. from Rotterdam. Punctuated by 19 of these fanciful structures, Kinderdijk was one of my last excursions aboard the inaugural celebration onboard the “Viking Odin” with Viking River Cruises; and the most memorable. Friday morning greeted us with a glorious sunrise with windmills barely visible through a misty horizon—truly one of the most picturesque scenes of my journey. Join me on this tour of Kinderdijk—a brief history, a canal tour and wrapping up with an interior tour of these magnificent structures from the ground up!

On Friday morning, we awoke to this sublime sunrise behind the Kinderdijk windmill complex. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Kinderdijk—A History

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Kinderdijk or “child’s dike” dates back to the 13th century when the Dutch villagers occupying these lowlands needed a viable solution to combat the saturated landscapes resulting from the North Sea floods; most notably “Elizabeth’s Flood” of 1421 that devastated the lands and claimed the lives of thousands of villagers. Although Kinderdijk’s origins are rooted in the Middle Ages, most of what we see today resulted from the 18th century and to visit is like stepping back in time 250 years!

If you look closely at top of the windmills, you can see the year they were built. Just below the cap you will see 1740. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Located on the Alblasserwaard “polder” or reclaimed land from the North Sea, Kinderdijk is a network of 19 windmills along 15th-century canals designed and constructed to pump water from the surrounding pastures and back into the nearby River Lek. Of these 19 windmills, there are eight stone-brick windmills from the Nederwaard district built in 1738, eight thatched windmills from the Overwaard district built in 1740, two stone windmills from the Nieuw-Lekkerland polder built in 1760, and one very distinct windmill from the Blokweer polder which dates back to 1521. Although succumbing to fire in 1997, this elder of the Kinderdijk mills has been fully restored to its former glory and in operation since 2000.

One very distinct windmill stands out from the rest of the mills at the complex. Originally from the Blokweer polder, this mill dates back to 1521. Although succumbing to fire in 1997, this elder has been fully restored to its former glory and in full operation since 2000. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Originally, Holland had more than 10,000 pumping, grinding and sawing windmills and sadly, only 1024 remain in operation along with just 1,600 millers. Although the heritage is kept alive at Kinderdijk thanks to the Dutch and UNESCO, a modern pumping station—built here in the 1950s and one of Europe’s largest—maintains the water levels and replaced the windmills as the primary means to keep the land dry. The good news is that all 19 remain fully operational with 18 of them still occupied by families. The last is now a museum guaranteeing a glimpse into this storied past forever. By the way, it costs about $15,000 per year to maintain each windmill at Kinderdijk.

Magical! All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The Life of a Miller

Our morning tour started with a presentation by a miller’s apprentice who introduced us to the miller’s heritage and life in the 17th and 18th centuries. Faced with the challenges of farming the surrounding lands not to mention operating the windmills and taking care of their families, the life of a miller had its challenges. Adding insult to injury was having to provide for a family of 14 or more! It was not uncommon for parents to have 12 -13 children due to the high fatality rate of younger children during those times; and the parents had to ensure they always had enough labor for the mill and the surrounding farms.

The Windmill's Tail: To turn the blades of the windmill into the wind, the top or "cap" of the windmill must be rotated to the desired direction. The miller does this by turning a giant wheel, resembling that of a ship's steering wheel, located at the bottom of the windmill's tail or the triangle shaped trellis structure that connects the cap to the wheel. The miller then turns the wheel clockwise or counterclockwise to rotate the cap at the top which can swing a full 360 degrees if necessary. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

After our immersion into the miller’s life, our apprentice provided a detailed explanation of the inner workings of a windmill—complete with models, sketches and even Dutch humor which I found hilarious! One fact I thought truly fascinating was that although these windmills look like solid sturdy structures, their tops can rotate a full 360 degrees so that they can always face the oncoming wind. If a miller was not in constant vigilance of the prevailing gusts, he risked damage and fire to his mill if blades turned too fast or even worse, in a counter-clockwise position. Oh, I need to mention that the blades of windmills around the world rotate clockwise—save those in the United Kingdom [tongue in cheek].

Close-up shot of the Windmill cap that can rotate a full 360 degrees if necessary. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Kinderdijk Canal Tour

An enchanting way to see the windmills up close and personal is via the canal tour. Don't miss this on your next visit to Kinderdijk. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

After our presentation, we embarked on a Kinderdijk canal tour and cruised up and down the 15th-century waterways through some of the most picturesque landscapes I’ve ever seen. The view from the waterways provided ideal vantage points for the mills and surrounding countryside, and when combined with blue skies and crisp sunlight, I had all the makings of a palette to ensure these fanciful structures were rendered beautifully.

Kinderdijk Windmill Museum

Kinderdijk Windmill Museum—climb all the way to the top to see the inner workings of the windmill. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Along the way, we disembarked at the windmill museum and toured the inside from the ground up. It was fascinating to see all the mechanisms in place just as our miller’s apprentice described. And the real eye-opener for me was that despite the fact the windmills appear to be quite cavernous on the outside, they are indeed quite cramped on the inside. The rooms are extremely confining and the cupboard-sized beds even more so. Climbing up to the next levels wasn’t an easy task either because of narrow and very steep stairways. Despite the close quarters and crowded spaces, there was something enchanting about the prospects of living in a windmill. Plus, it was a thrill to climb up and back down inside a structure that’s been standing for 275 years!

Working our way up from the ground floor:

Did you know every windmill has two doors on opposite sides of the windmill just in case the spinning blades are blocking one of them. This view shows one of the entryways with a cupboard for storage on the right. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A very cozy kitchen on the ground floor houses a table, small cooking stove and a sleeping cupboard in the back. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A quaint view to the left of the kitchen. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

One of the bedrooms on the 2nd floor inside the windmill museum. Note the wardrobe to the left and another sleeping cupboard to the right. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Finally after climbing 4 stairways, we've reached the top to see the "Upper Wheel" of the windmill. This wheel is attached to the four windmill blades just outside the wall. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

After the tour was over, we headed back to the “Viking Odin” which was short walk away. What a wondrous morning in the enchanting land of Kinderdijk! I hope you enjoyed your tour through the Kinderdijk complex in the Netherlands and that you have the opportunity real soon to experience the wonder and history of the Kinderdijk windmills! More exciting excursions from my week with Viking River Cruise to come.

The Kinderdijk complex is open 24 hours every day of the year however, the windmill museum, pumping station and canal boat tours operate seasonally. The museum and pumping station are open every day from mid-March to the end of October from 9:30 to 5:30 p.m. Off-season hours are weekends only from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Canal cruises run every day from April 1 to October 1 with the first cruise departing at 10 a.m. and the last 5 p.m. For more event information, visit Kinderdijk.com/Events.

More ways to experience Kinderdijk:

EuroTravelogue on Youtube
Cruise to Kinderdijk from Rotterdam
Experience the magical windmills by air or horse and buggy
Virtual Tours of the Kinderdijk Complex

Did You Know?

The name Kinderdijk or Child’s Dike originated in the days following the devastating flood of 1421. One of the surviving villagers returned to this submerged land to see if anything could be salvaged. According to legend, he found a tiny baby floating in a cradle kept afloat by a cat whose jumping back and forth momentum kept the baby dry, and thus it is this “child” for which the dike was named. This event also gave birth to the fairy tale “Cat’s in the Cradle” and today, these “windmill cats” are revered and protected.

More about my Viking River Cruise:

Viking River Cruises Inaugural Celebration
Guided Toursthru the New Viking Odin Longship
Amsterdam Canal-Boat Tours
Living in the Moment Onboard the Viking Odin

Farewell from Kinderdijk Windmill Complex in the Netherlands. All content and photography are the copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Seizing the Moments of my Journey with Viking River Cruises

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 15 Apr 2012 22:34:00 +0000

Living in the moment in Marken, Netherlands. I happened upon this picturesque view of a tiny drawbridge leading into a village street. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

“The journey not the arrival matters.” – T. S. Eliot

In those six words, T.S. Eliot encapsulates the wondrous journey that is travel and my mission in life, but he also reminds us not to simply get from place to place, but to live in each moment along the way! Of course I agree that destination is the highlight of any holiday and the reason for which we travel but isn’t the journey as equally sublime? Can it be? Have you ever been thrust into a single moment that ignited your childlike wonder and sent it soaring to unimaginable heights? Or, have you shared an encounter with new friends in faraway lands? These kinds of moments, all too often fleeting but sometimes euphoric, are always high on any of my itineraries and my recent adventure with Viking River Cruises proved to be no different. My cruise through the Netherlands not only delivered on my expectations of a European cruise, it exceeded them with unforgettable moments that I seized and reveled in for the time afforded me. And so it is with this underlying theme of “the journey not the arrival” that I weave together some memories from my journey in the Netherlands—unexpected points in time that enriched my “journey” along the way.

Enchantment in the Dutch Countryside

A most unforgettable moment happened after retiring for the night onboard the Viking River Longship Viking Odin. As we cruised up the River Ij en-route to Kinderdijk, I happened to glance outside my window to behold what was to become one of the most enchanting moments of my cruise. In that moment, I jumped out of bed and went outside to behold a most magnificent scene. For in the distance of the passing landscape and velvety night sky was a picturesque village cast aglow by its clock tower whose faces shone with warm golden hues—a beacon for those who lived in the village as well as fortunate travelers passing by. Suddenly wide-awake with excitement, I reveled in that moment because of its picturesque beauty and so this observer began to wonder about its people, its local sights and its culture. For a brief moment, I wanted to run back inside to grab my camera but thought the better of it, for if I had, the moment would have been gone.

Windmills, Windmills, Windmills

Just one of Kinderdijk's 19 windmills seen from the canal they pump their water into. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Our next day, we awoke up a most wondrous land of windmills. Welcome to Kinderdijk (pronounced kinder-dike), a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in Dutch heritage and home to 19 functioning windmills whose oldest dates back to 1521. What made this an unforgettable memory was the misty-morning sunrise punctuated by these iconic and picturesque windmills looming on the horizon. Later that morning, we toured a windmill built in 1740 for an up-close and personal look at the life of a miller. Then, we climbed to the very top! I promise more on Kinderdijk in an upcoming post but for now, I share with you some pics and video of this historically enchanting place!

Looking up at the back side of a windmill in Kinderdijk, Netherlands. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Inside the small kitchen of the Kinderdijk windmill. Note the bedroom chamber in the background. Most beds inside this windmill were located in little cupboards such as this one pictured here. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A Cheesy Moment

Welcome to the De Smikkelaar Cheese Shoppe in Volendam, Netherlands. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

While wandering through Volendam with my fellow journalist Mattie John Bamman who writes for EuropeUpClose.com, we happened upon a quaint Dutch cheese shop that was so inviting, we just had to step inside for a closer taste, I mean look. ; ) Currently owned by a fourth generation family of fromageres or cheesemakers, this shop was brimming with cheese of every shape, size and color. What made this moment truly special was our encounter with these welcoming folks and our immersion into the lives of Dutch cheesemaking. Not only did they share with us their heritage, they introduced us to various types of cheese and offered us the penultimate moment of cheese indulgence—some of which were among the freshest and creamiest I’ve ever tasted. Funny enough, the young guy in this photo told me to grab two of these extremely heavy cheese wheels to pose for a picture. “Are you kidding me?” I couldn’t budge the two of them so he hands me one, and with trepidation, I reached out to grab it. Thanks to my fellow cheese taster who snapped this pic, I have suspended this memory in time forever.

My very cheesy moment captured forever in time. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A Brief Encounter With A Dutch Bridge

While shooting video up on the Viking Odin’s Sun Deck en route to Volendam, an unexpected thrill was imminent! We were quickly approaching one of the many bridges that span the rivers of the Netherlands, but this one looked like it was going to be within arm’s reach of where I stood on deck. With my trusty iPad video turned on, I recorded this brief encounter with a Dutch bridge:

For now, my adventures must come to an end. I hope this journey inspires you to seek out these fleeting experiences of “living in the moment” and to remember T.S. Elliot as you live each day, each hour, each moment! If you've experienced sublime moments like these, please share them below. I would love to revel in the moment with you!

Additional Reading:

Guided Canal Boat Tour Through the Historic City of Amsterdam

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 14:42:00 +0000

A great way to tour the city of Amsterdam is via canal boat. Explore the architecture, the monuments and life in this enchanting city. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

After we awoke in Amsterdam on an historic day for Viking River Cruises, we were invited to embark on Amsterdam’s renowned glass-topped canal boats for a guided tour through the city’s legendary canals from its historic architecture and fabled gables to its quaint neighborhoods and charming houseboats. And you can actually rent one of these quaint and charming canal-boats when you're considering options for Europe vacation rentals. How cool would that be? Then it was onto a walk through the heart of the Jewish quarter including visits to the nearly 350-year-old Portuguese synagogue and the Jewish Historical Museum—both poignant reminders of the persecution suffered by the Amsterdam Jews during WWII. Topping off our morning tour was a scrumptious lunch at De Kas (The Greenhouse), whose fully-operational greenhouse determines the menu of the day based on only the freshest ingredients! I must say, it was the best lunch I had ever eaten! But for now, let’s embark on our journey through this quintessential “Venice of the North”…your glass-topped boat is standing by. We’ll come back to our tour of the Jewish quarter in a later post.

One of the glass-topped canal boats making its way through the Amsterdam waterways. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Brief History

Capital city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is world renowned for its enchanting canals, storied architecture, famous artists, Anne Frank, and of course, the infamous “Red Light District” and coffee houses. Combine all of that with 900 years of history and you will see that Amsterdam is a living museum with many of its centuries-old sites still intact! Founded in the early 13th century, Amsterdam was just a small fishing village that achieved tremendous commercial wealth and power in the 16th and 17th centuries while it endured the ravages of the 80-Year War that eventually led to its independence. While prosperity continued throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Amsterdam suffered greatly once again through the onslaught of the Nazi occupation that nearly devastated the Jewish population. Through a history of great wealth and tragic loss, Amsterdam survives today as a cosmopolitan, as well as a progressive metropolis full of character, charm and an extremely benevolent culture. You can see much of Amsterdam's history via a canal-boat tour through the heart of the city.

Amsterdam’s Canals

Houseboats line most of Amsterdam's waterways and range from simple to elaborately designed and decorated homes on the water. Their addresses are designated as "Opposite" the actual street address of the house it faces. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Charming house boats line the Herengracht or Gentlemen's Canal as well as most of the waterways throughout Amsterdam and are often dressed to the hilt with flowers and greenery. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Seen from a bird’s eye view, Amsterdam’s network of canals forms a series of concentric semicircles that begin at the Ij Bay in the north and fan out to the southwest. Dating back to the early 17th century, the original plan called for the development of four major canals bisected by a series of intersecting canals. Actual construction began in 1613. Throughout the city, there are more than 500 bridges with the oldest dating back to 1648 and 16 locks that raise and lower the canal boats to the varying heights of the waterways. After having walked the quaint streets and cruised through its picturesque canals, I can certainly understand why Amsterdam is known as the "the Venice of the north."

If you look closely, this view provides a direct route across the four major canals in Amsterdam. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Aboard our “green-certified” canal boat powered by natural gas, we cruised through three of four main canals:

Herengracht or Gentlemen’s Canal is lined with homes that once belonged to wealthy merchants and governors of the city.
Keizergracht or King’s Canal is the second widest of the canals and named after Maximilian I [we’ll see more of him at the Westerkerk below].
Prinsengracht or Prince’s Canal is actually the longest and named after William I or the Prince of Orange who led the 80-year revolt I mentioned above.

More merchants' homes along the Gentlemen's Canal in Amsterdam. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Now that you’re armed with a few lessons in local lore, we’ll explore the picturesque sights of Amsterdam from its fabled rooftops and elegant canal homes to the charming houseboats lining its waterways. I hope you enjoy this guided canal-boat tour through Amsterdam!

Architecture—a lesson in Amsterdam's fabled gabled architecture

Fabled gables of Amsterdam and the Netherlands. To the left, the ordinary Triangle Gable and next to it is an example of the Step Gable. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

You can see the evolution in gabled architecture from its humble beginnings of simplified "triangle" gables and "step" gables to the more ornamental "bell" and "neck" gabled rooftops—some adorned with imported marble statuary.

Note the "Bell" gable to the left and the more opulent "Neck" gables to the right—some even adorned with exquisite imported marble statuary from Italy as pictured in the middle house here. This picture also shows an example of the traditional tall and lean Amsterdam canal home at the left and the much wider merchants' houses to the right. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Merchant’s Houses

As merchants’ prosperity grew during the 17th century, so did the size of their homes along the canal—the Gentlemen’s Canal predominantly. You can distinguish these from the earlier homes because the houses are wider and feature elaborately decorated gables, some with imported stone statuary. If you look closely at the peak of the gables, you’ll see a cantilevered beam extending outward. Because most of these homes have very narrow staircases, the only way to move in furniture and appliances was to use these hoist beams to lift the fixtures up to the windows above. Also you’ll see that most of them have two front doors—the top for the merchant’s family and the lower for the servants.

Ann Frank Huis

The Anne Frank Huis Museum can be seen from the Prince's Canal in Amsterdam. There is small plaque on the right side of the doorway marking the location. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

For 25 months beginning in 1942, Anne Frank and her family along with the Van Pels family hid inside this house that can be seen from the Prince's Canal in Amsterdam. In August of 1944, she and two families were betrayed and later deported. Of the two families, it was only Otto Van Pels who survived the war. Anne died in the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp in March the following year and her diary became her legacy.

Westerkerk

Westerkerk or West Church boasts Amsterdam's tallest tower. It the burial place of Rembrandt however his precise location remains unknown. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Close-up view of the Westerkerk or West Church bell tower showing the colorfully painted ornamentation decorating its four sides. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Westerkerk or West Church was the only church that Anne Frank could see from the windows in her house. Rembrandt is buried there although his precise location remains unknown. Topping off the city’s tallest tower is the imperial crown of Maximilian I of Austria.

The charming little house belongs to the drawbridge keeper. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Note that in this photograph, the cars have a small guard rail to prevent them from rolling into the canals. On the other side of the canal, cars don't have that luxury and according to my guide, at least one car ends up in the canal each week. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Fun Facts:

Canal boats’ addresses are “Opposite – the address across the street from their position in the canal.”
At least one car ends up in the canal every week.
Amsterdam ranks #13 in top places to live around the world.
Thousands of bicycles make their way in and around the city. Be warned as they have the right of way along their routes and will stop at nothing that gets in their way. Just kidding, but they don’t take kindly to ignorant walkers, namely me, who was almost run over a number of times despite the ringing of their little bells.
More than 300 bicycles change ownership every day.

This was just the first excursion aboard the Viking Odin and with Viking River Cruises, and we haven’t even left port yet! Many more adventures from the Netherlands coming your way on EuroTravelogue.

Additional Reading:

Viking River Cruise Christens four new longships in Amsterdam
Your video-guided tour through the Viking Odin
Viking River Cruises sails 19 ships throughout Europe, Russia, China, Ukraine, Southeast Asia and Egypt. Find our more when you visit VikingRiverCruises.com.
Find EuroTravelogue on YouTube for more videos of my journey with Viking River Cruises.

Guided Tour Through Viking River Cruise's Longship Viking Odin

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Tue, 03 Apr 2012 12:29:00 +0000

Welcome to the Viking Odin. This elegant two-story atrium welcomes you on board. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Before we embark on fascinating journeys through the Netherlands, let me first introduce you to the Viking Odin longship, my home away from home on the waterways of Europe! As you know from my first post, we celebrated the Christening of four new longships on March 21st, so by now you’re probably wondering about these "longships" and what makes them so special. Steeped in Viking lore, longships were the sailing vessels of the intrepid Viking explorers and it is this tradition that inspired Viking River Cruises to design and build a new class of longships but in 21st –century style. Let us now embark on a tour of these magnificent ships that are redefining the way we think about European travel!

Exterior view of the Viking Odin atrium lobby. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

As you can probably imagine, these brand new state-of-the-art longships are indeed quite long and their innovative design launched a “next generation” class of ships that features not only enhanced engineering but also elegantly appointed interiors and even "green" technology. Among the cutting-edge innovations are: energy-efficient hybrid engines for smooth sailing along the rivers of Europe; solar panels on the Sun Deck to harness the energy of our sun; the Sun Deck itself with its sweeping 360-degree panoramic views of the surrounding vistas; the indoor/outdoor Aquavit (Waters of Life) Lounge and even an herb garden. Inside, you’ll delight in the grandeur of the public spaces as well as luxuriously-appointed staterooms “with a view”! To sum it all up, elegance and efficiency combined with Viking traditions and intimate settings lie at the heart of these magnificent longships!

Sunset on Viking River Cruises' Viking Odin Longship in port at Volendam, Netherlands. All content property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Once onboard, I set out to explore the ship and take a few shots and short videos of all the public spaces and a couple of the staterooms. Upon entry, you are bathed in the natural light pouring in from the skylights overhead and filling the two-story atrium lobby. On the lower level of the atrium or "Middle Deck," you’ll find reception and the main dining room while on the "Upper Deck," you'll find the library with Internet access and the innovative Aquavit Lounge. Just before you enter the Aquavit Lounge, there are coffee stations on each side of the ship that offer a full-range of coffee from black to espresso. Plus in the mornings, you'll find tasty breakfast morsels, and in the afternoons, cookies and pastries—needless to say, one of my favorite places on the ship!

Here's a quick video tour through the Aquavit Lounge, our gathering place for onboard presentations and where we spent the pre-dinner hours getting to know our new friends and colleagues.

And the main Dining Room where we indulged in scrumptious gourmet meals paired with the finest wines from the local regions. After dinner, it was on to dessert with specialty liqueurs and cognacs. Sounds glorious huh?

Outside on the top deck or Sun Deck, you are surrounded by 360-degree panoramic views of the countryside whether you're viewing pastoral settings or historic villages preserved in time. Up here, you’ll find plenty of deck chairs and tables, a giant chess board, two holes of miniature golf and the herb garden I mentioned above. I spent a lot of time up here shooting the sweeping views of sights while soaking up the sublime scenery as it passed me by. Here’s a short video of our departure from Amsterdam en-route to Volendam and Edam.

Viking Odin Deck Plan. Image: Courtesy of Viking River Cruises. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Moving back inside the Viking Odin, you’ll find 95 staterooms accommodating a maximum of 190 passengers. The most luxurious of all the staterooms onboard are the two Explorer Suites that measure in at 445 sq. ft. and feature private wrap-around verandas with 270-degree views from the cabin. Next in line are seven Veranda Suites featuring 270 sq. ft. with both a full-size veranda and French balcony. There are 39 Veranda Staterooms, like the one I was lucky enough to call home, and 22 French-Balcony Staterooms—both measuring in at 210 sq. ft. (French Balcony rooms have sliding-glass doors without the veranda). At the water level, are 25 Deluxe Rooms with half-height windows. Regardless of which type of accommodation you select, all feature 26-inch flat-panel TVs, a mini-fridge, two singles or one double bed, heated bathroom floors, and ample storage space with a safe. Plus, as I mentioned in my first article, all rooms feature both 220V and 110V voltage. To see all categories with floor plans and pictures, visit VikingRiverCruises.com. For now, take a tour with me through the luxurious Explorer Suite:

So that’s a wrap on our tour of the Viking Odin. I hope you enjoyed your visit through the next generation of the Viking River Cruises longships!

Did you know:

To ensure that river-going vessels fit through European locks, they can't be any wider than 11.4 meters, and oftentimes while in port, they dock side by side to accommodate as many ships as possible. At any time, you could have passengers from other ships passing through yours to disembark—so be aware. Funny enough, all of this became blatantly obvious to me when I first checked in. After walking up the gangway, I actually passed right through the Viking Odin and into the Viking Prestige next door. Didn’t find that out until they looked up my name and kindly advised me that I am on the wrong ship. Talk about embarrassed. We all laughed!

Here's a short video moving through the first of many locks we encountered en-route.

Bon Voyage for now.

Additional Reading:

Celebrating the Launch of the new Viking River Cruise Longships!
Visit EuroTravelogue on Youtube for more videos from this historical week for Viking River Cruises!
Visit Viking River Cruises for more information on all of the exciting cruises and destinations that Viking has to offer!
Viking River Cruises on Youtube.

Celebrating the Launch of Viking River Cruise Longships in the Netherlands

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 21:21:00 +0000

The Viking River Cruises Longship Viking Odin in port in Volendam, Netherlands. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Cruising the rivers of Europe was only a dream, until last week that is, when I realized that dream with Viking River Cruises. It all began with an email from Viking back in mid-February inviting me to Amsterdam for their inaugural celebration for four of the six world-class river-cruise longships scheduled to debut this year; and then sail with them to lands unknown to me—the Netherlands. As you know from my announcement a few weeks ago, I was, and still am for that matter; incredibly euphoric about the adventure with Viking. Imagine, idyllic landscapes punctuated by fanciful windmills, or perhaps quaint and charming seaside villages steeped in time-honored traditions. This is but the first in a series of posts chronicling my Viking explorations—from the Christening ceremony of the new ships in Amsterdam to our intrepid exploration through the Netherlands. With pen and lens in tow, I bring these journeys to life for you and with that, I welcome you onboard the Viking Odin and to the Netherlands!

Uniquely Dutch architecture complete with stepped gables lines the winding streets through Volendam, Netherlands. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Renowned for their scenic river cruises through Europe, Egypt, Russia, Southeast Asia and China, Viking River Cruises operates the largest fleet of river vessels or longships in the world and is celebrating their 15th anniversary this year! And, by the time 2013 comes to an end, Viking River Cruises will boast 31 vessels with an additional six longships on order for delivery in 2014—incredible growth! From the moment I boarded the Viking Odin, my home for the inaugural cruise, I knew I was in for a special treat. From the friendly and courteous staff, some of whom I had grown quite attached to by the end of my cruise; to the amenities on board and in the cabins; to the unforgettable excursions; and yes, the glorious food—the scrumptious, delicious, gourmet food we delighted in each night. Truly, Viking treated us like royalty and we certainly enjoyed every moment and every bite!

Throughout our voyage in the Netherlands, we happened upon scenic landscapes such as this windmill in Kinderdijk. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The Viking Odin

My home for five fantastic days in the Netherlands was on board the Viking Odin, just one in their new fleet of longships that accommodate nearly 200 passengers. And, the accommodations range from luxurious “Explorer” suites and two-room veranda suites, to cabins with full balconies or French balconies, and river-level rooms with windows. Not only are these cabins fully equipped with all the comforts of home including a mini-fridge, flat-panel TV, supremely comfortable beds, plus Provencal bath products; they offer spectacular views of picturesque landscapes outside your sliding-glass doors. And, these new ships offer both European and American outlets so no need for adapters or converters. Leave them home! Check out this guided tour through my cabin 221 on board the Viking Odin.

If you want to see more of the ship, visit www.Youtube.com/EuroTravelogue where you’ll find various tours through the ship including the luxurious “Explorer” suite. More videos to come my friends. Stay tuned.

Inaugural Itinerary

Here’s a short "cruise" through our five-day itinerary and don’t worry, subsequent to this introduction will be feature articles detailing each of the excursions we embarked on—from the Christening in Amsterdam to the scenic villages of the Netherlands.

Amsterdam

We began our adventures the very next morning after our arrival with a canal tour through Amsterdam where we sailed through the centuries-old historic canals and reveled in the architecture dating back to the 16th and 17 centuries.

Charming houseboats and barges line the historic canals throughout Amsterdam. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Christening Ceremony

Later that afternoon, we attended the Christening ceremony which was to become one of the highlights of my entire trip and an historic day for Viking because they are the first company to launch four ships in a single day! Inspired by their Norse heritage, Viking River Cruises turned to Viking mythology to name these new ships after Viking gods and heroes.

Four godmothers Christened the longships including:

Rebecca Eaton, executive producer of the PBS series “Masterpiece,” who served as godmother for the Viking Freya, the goddess of love beauty and fertilily.
Joanna Lumley, whom I “absolutely love,” and famous for her role as “Patsy” on “Absolutely Fabulous, ” is godmother for the Viking Odin—my ship which was named after the father of all the Viking gods.
Respected Harvard physicist Dr. Lisa Randall Christened the Viking Idun, the goddess of spring, rejuvenation and eternal youth.
Last but certainly not least, is Viking’s most devoted and traveled passenger—Gail Wiswedel, who served as godmother for the Viking Njord, Freya’s father and god of the wind.
Via satellite, we checked in with Neptun Shipyard in Rostock, Germany, for a status update on the somewhat delayed Viking Njord and Viking Freya which will launch on April 15 and April 18, respectively. The last two of the six longships scheduled to debut later this year are the Viking Embla, named after the legendary mortal who was the first woman to be created and the mother of all the human race, and the Viking Aegir, named after the mighty god of the sea. These will launch on July 8 and August 15, respectively. In the meantime, check out this short video of Joanna Lumley as she Christens the Viking Odin.

Fantastic Voyage

On the morning next, we set sail for Volendam where we embarked on a journey through Edam—home of that most scrumptious cheese; Marken—a quaint seaside village on the shores of the Ijsselmeer (pronounced "eye-sill-meer"—a large freshwater lake created when the Dutch blocked off the North Sea to protect the country's low-lying land from flooding and erosion); and back to Volendam for a stroll through narrow streets lined with quaint and uniquely Dutch architecture.

Unforgettable picturesque landscapes of Kinderdijk—UNESCO World Heritage Site. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

On our last day, we sailed to the enchanting land of windmills—Kinderdijk (pronounced: kinder-dike) which translates to “child’s dike.” We learned about the workings of windmills and the lives of the millers who lived and operated them at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, we sailed to Rotterdam for a tour of Hague to see the Queen’s palace grounds and office, the Peace Palace and the Mauritshuis Musuem—home to “Girl with Pearl Earring” among other famous works of art. More on all of these excursions to come!

Quaint seaside villages such as Marken preserve their rich heritage and traditions and can be found throughout the Netherlands. All content is copyrighted property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Overall

Lest this first article becomes a novella, I need to end here for now. However, let me impart some Viking wisdom. ; ) Not only does Viking River Cruises operate world-class ships with exceptional guest service, they provide enriching and cultural experiences for all who sail from the accommodations and spectacular ships to the epicurean delights and immersive guided tours through the various ports of call. Above all that, I think what I enjoyed the most is the intimate setting on board these river-going vessels. With fewer than 200 passengers on board, never once did I feel crowded or have to wait in line for anything. It’s as though everyone on board becomes your friend from the staff to the guests, and it’s quite comforting. To sum it all up, this will not be the last time I experience Viking River Cruises—they have a new fan for life! I wonder if Viking would consider me for a “godfather” of an upcoming new build. ; )

Bon Voyage!

Additional Reading:

Want to learn more about the Viking River Cruises products and where they sail? Visit VikingRiverCruises.com for all the details.
Lots of incredible videos on Viking River Cruises Youtube page. Visit Viking River Cruises on Youtube.
For virtual tour through these innovative longships, check out my first feature.

Postcards from the Loire Valley in France

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 00:21:00 +0000

The Loire Valley in France is home to elegant chateaux, sprawling fertile farmland and some of the most scenic landscapes in all of France. All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Renowned for its 1,000+ medieval and Renaissance chateaux, abundant vineyards and sublime landscapes, the Loire Valley beckons to all who plan to spend their holiday in France! At the heart of all of this visual splendor lies the River Loire that stretches 600 miles or so from the south of France north through Orleans and then west where it empties into the Atlantic. Along its meandering course, you’ll discover hilltops punctuated by magnificent fairy tale castles that open a portal into the past—from Amboise where the remains of Leonardo Da Vince are believed to rest, to Chinon where Joan of Arc met with Charles the VII, and finally to Chambord—the largest of ALL the chateaux and believe it or not, a hunting lodge for Francis I. The Loire Valley in France is steeped in history and awaiting your discovery.

I think perhaps you may have seen this one before ; ). It's one of my all-time fave shots taken of the gift shop at Chateau de Chenonceau. All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Chateau de Cheverny is still occupied today by the descendants of its original owners.
All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

On the grounds of Chateau de Cheverny.
All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Undoubtedly one of my favorite memories of my first European holiday was this full-day immersion into the Loire Valley chateaux. We departed from Paris on a 12-hour journey that started in Chateau de Chenonceau, moved north to Cheverny and finishing the day at Chateau de Chambord. Looking back now, my only regret is the fact that I didn’t drive myself through this region and although the motor coach was quite convenient especially when our 7:00 a.m. departure time interrupted my slumber, I would have liked to revel in each and every vista that we passed along the way—taking my time to frame the landscape on my digital canvas and capture the magnificence of the land spread out before me. However, our stops did provide an enriching experience with time to spare allowing for a thorough immersion into each of the chateau we visited.

Behold—I bring you the glory of the Loire Valley and its colossal palaces that have stood on its banks for centuries! I hope you enjoy the visual romance and splendor of the Loire!

More of the surrounding gardens at Chateau de Chenonceau.
All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A little church just outside the archway leading into Chateau de Cheverny.
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The portal to Chateau de Cheverny.
All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Just outside the Chateau de Cheverny is this charming little pub where we had lunch during our tour of the Loire Valley. All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Welcome to the charming village of Cheverny!
All photography is property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Side view of Chateau de Chenonceau.
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Chateau de Chenonceau seen from a different point of view.
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Catherine de Medici Gardens at Chateau de Chenonceau.
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The magnificent and colossal Chateau de Chambord.
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Sublime architectural details of Chateau de Chambord inspire painters and photographers alike.
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Another striking view of the architectural splendor of the rooftop of Chateau de Chambord.
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Just one of the many ornate cupolas at Chateau de Chambord.
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If you enjoyed this visual tour through the Loire Valley, continue your journey with these related articles.

If you go:

To find out more about tours to the Loire Valley in France, visit Paris Vision Tours or ParisTrip.com for a variety of options. Full-day tours last 12-13 hours but are well worth every minute of your time and price! Alternatively, there are half-day options as well but don't expect to see that much. And if you're brave at heart, I recommend renting a car and driving through the valley yourself. The choices are many but I urge you to plan for a full-day experience no matter how you travel through the region. Make the most of your journey through the Loire Valley on your next visit.

Au Revoir!

EuroTravelogue To Embark With Viking River Cruises in Amsterdam

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 20:33:00 +0000

Artist rendering of the new Viking River Cruises Longships. Photo: Courtesy of Viking River Cruises. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

In just three weeks, I will be heading to Amsterdam with the world-renowned Viking River Cruises to Christen and launch two of the six new Viking Longships scheduled to debut this year! My particular journey will take me on board the “Odin,” named after the mighty warrior in Norse mythology. To say I am excited would be understatement of the year. Actually, I am thrilled beyond words and if you know me, you have a sense of the elation coursing through my being—testament to my undeniable exuberance to travel and explore places and cultures unfamiliar. Plus, I have wanted to experience a Viking River Cruise for the last two years and still can’t believe this opportunity is upon me. Big adventures await as well as all the updates of my journey including stunning photography of every stop along the way. But first, need to get things in order: camera, international phone cards, my iPad of course for impromptu videos and stills, luggage, passport and so much more! The adventure begins!

If you’re not familiar with the Viking River Cruise product, right now they sail 19 ships throughout Europe, Russia, China, Ukraine, Southeast Asia and Egypt. Fascinating itineraries at varying lengths lead to cultural experiences enriching and immersing their guests into wondrous cultures. What’s so special about these ships is their intimate setting on board with an average of 150 passengers per ship. And the gourmet food from the videos I have seen, looks scrumptious and divine. Soon, I will be able to attest to that!

My itinerary consists of actually two two-night cruises. First is the inaugural celebration departing Amsterdam on March 20 with the Christening ceremony followed by a special dinner cruise and morning excursion. Following this first mini-cruise is a second two-night journey to the picturesque fishing towns of Volendam and Edam (oh the cheese!), then it’s onto Rotterdam, Kinderdijk and finally on to explore Van Gogh’s Brabant. Having never visited the Netherlands or experienced the Viking River Cruise product, I know that this entire experience will be unforgettable and create memories to last a lifetime, not to mention enough new material for EuroTravelogue about the fascinating stops along the way.

Here’s are two awesome introductions to the Viking River Cruises product including a CGI tour of the “Odin” and it’s sister ships in this new fleet debuting in 2012.

Be sure to come back often as new updates arrive. When I finally embark, be sure to follow my updates on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ for all the visual romance of the Netherlands and its scenic waterways aboard the Viking Longships “Odin”!

Find out more about Viking River Cruises and the exciting itineraries worldwide!

The Splendor of Tuscany—Sharing Memories and Dreams Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 23:58:00 +0000

Farm house in Le Crete. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

For centuries, the allure of Tuscany has captivated our imaginations with evocative images of hilltop towns, Renaissance art and architecture and Cyprus-lined roads meandering through golden fields of sunflowers. I’ll never forget my first trip to Tuscany, Italy—it was love at first sight. Immediately, I fell under the Tuscan spell when the most picturesque scenery unfolded before my eyes, whether in its cities or the surrounding countryside.

Farm house in northern Tuscany. Don't you just love the warm tones of a Tuscan Landscape. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

As you know, I have written many articles expressing my love of Tuscany so when Abbeville Press contacted me about a Tuscany book contest, I jumped at the chance. Having never executed a promotion like this, I thought a book review and contest would be a nice departure not to mention fun for both you and me. After all, who could turn down an assignment about the visual romance of Tuscany?

'Tuscany' front cover design.
Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Before we discuss our contest, let me give you a brief overview of the book. Duly entitled “Tuscany” and written by Marie-Ange Guillaume with photography by Sonja Bullaty and Angelo Lomeo, “Tuscany” is not a guidebook, but a keepsake coffee-table book that remains timeless in its content despite its 1995 publication date. From its written word to its picturesque photography, the book introduces us to Tuscany through unique impressions from many an eclectic vantage point. Beginning with historical accounts and pejorative reflections by the literary giants, the book then leads us through the expansive landscapes of rolling hills and vineyards; invites us into storied medieval hilltop towns rich in Gothic and Renaissance histories; escorts us through the prominent cities of Florence, Pisa and Siena; and finally welcomes us to the coastal towns from Massa to Viagreegio. In addition, I found two chapters especially fascinating because of their unique looks at Tuscany: an essay about the variety of marble and how it's used, and a study of the stone faces that gaze upon us from the iconic statuary found throughout Tuscany. The visual romance of this land certainly comes to life in “Tuscany” and I am glad to add it to my ever-mounting collection of Tuscan books!

The renowned Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Twilight at Campo dei Miracoli in Pisa. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Roman aqueduct in Gubbio. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Now that you have a taste of “Tuscany,” so to speak, it’s on to the contest where you have the opportunity to win your own copy of “Tuscany.” All you need to do is share your favorite memory or why you want to visit Tuscany in 50 words or less on Abbeville Press Facebook page and include "Tuscany Contest" at the beginning of your entry. This is your chance to be creative and impress Abbeville Publishing with your poetic prose. Have fun!

Castello di Brolio in the Chianti area. Photo: Property of Abbeville Press. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

A priest peeks out of his
window in Pisa. Photo:
Property of Abbeville
Press. Unauthorized
use is prohibited.

To enter, you must “Like” Abbeville Press on Facebook and post your entry on their wall by 11:59 p.m. EST on February 26. Abbeville Press will collect and review all the entries and then select one entry as the winner. Then on February 27, stop back here on EuroTravelogue to find out who the lucky winner is and to read their inspiring story. Keep in mind that all submissions must be posted on the Abbeville Press Facebook page and by 11:59 p.m. EST on Feb 26 however, I still welcome your comments below. I can’t wait to read everyone’s Tuscan dreams and memories!

Arrivederci!

Inspired to Travel—Greece

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:35:00 +0000

The cast of 'Mamma Mia.' Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to write about movies that inspired me to travel for TravelCuriousOften.com. While that list was published, I have so many more that I want to feature here on EuroTravelogue whether it’s movies, books, trips taken by colleagues or whatever the case may be, that inspired or inspires travel. At heart, I am a hopeless romantic when it comes to stories of true love and the visual beauty of the world and its people around us. And so it with this underlying thread of "romance" that I weave together all of my “inspired by” stories for you and begin this new series with an adventure to the Greek Islands and perhaps a sing-a-long song or two with Abba along the way.

Agios Ioannis in Greece. Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

“Mamma Mia”

Not only will you fall in love the picturesque Grecian landscapes, you’ll be singing along to timeless Abba classics from beginning to end in “Mamma Mia.” Perfectly cast as Sophie, Amanda Seyfried sings the most beautiful renditions of Abba’s greatest hits, perhaps better than some of the originals. Her sweet melodic voice carries me away with every note she sings! Also, headlining and singing, although not with the same panache as Sophie, are Meryl Streep and Pierce Brosnan—among an all-star cast who bring to life the songs of Abba in their search for answers and romance.

Skopelos or as it's known by its fictional name Kalokairi. Photo: WikiMedia Commons

But the allure of “Mamma Mia” lies in its captivating Grecian landscapes and the deep blue Aegean Sea. Primarily filmed in four Greek locations, “Mamma Mia” is undoubtedly one of the most scenic and dramatic musicals ever produced.

We begin in Skopelos—or as it’s known by its fictional name Kalokairi, a mountainous island with craggy cliffs, deep valleys alive with lush forests.

Skiathos—shadow of Mount Athos, with its sandy beaches and turquoise blue sea, and where the Greek mainland shots were filmed.

Skiathos, Greece—where the Greek mainland shots were filmed. Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

Amarantos—a collection of tranquil island coves where the picnic scene with Sophie and her three dads as well as the opening sequence, “Honey Honey” were filmed, my two favorite scenes and songs from the movie.

Agios Ioannis—perhaps the most dramatic setting is at the end of the movie when and where we find our chapel of love, rebuilt by the “Mamma Mia” team and rising at 100 meters above the sea; and finally, the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea on which we set sail to a most spectacular film from beginning to end.

The "Mamma Mia" chapel on Agios Ioannis in Greece. Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

That’s a wrap on this week’s “inspired by” travel story. Now you tell me, what or whom inspires you to travel? Share your experiences here and if you would like to contribute a guest post about your favorite movie, book or person that inspired you to travel, let me know. Here’s to romantic journeys ahead!

ArtSmart Roundtable: Raphael’s ‘School of Athens’ in the Vatican Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:33:00 +0000

Completed in 1511, Raphael's "School of Athens" decorates one of four walls in the Stanza della Segnatura, one of four rooms in a suite of apartments intended for Pope Julius II. Now part of the Vatican Musuem, this academic gathering of history's most brilliant is accessible to everyone and it's wonderful! Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

Welcome to the ArtSmart Roundtable! Each month, the Roundtable—a group of travel bloggers / art aficionados who are passionate about discovering art while exploring destinations around the world, publish this monthly series that highlights a particular art-related subject. January’s topic is wall paintings and when I think of wall paintings, I can’t help but think of the magnificent frescoes that decorate many a chapel, museum, city hall—among others, throughout Europe and the rest of the world. Topping my list of favorite frescoes are Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel of course, but I’ve already written about the agony and ecstasy of the Sistine so I thought I would shift my focus to my second favorite Renaissance artist Raphaello Sanzio da Urbino or more commonly known as Raphael! I hope you enjoy this closer look at Raphael’s “School of Athens” and the next time you’re in Rome, make sure you set aside time in your itinerary to visit the Vatican Museums to see this master stroke of genius up close and personal.

Ever since Art History classes when my love affair with Renaissance was born, I have been captivated by Raphael’s frescoes in the Vatican Museum. Decorating the walls of the Stanze di Raphaello or Raphael Rooms, specifically the Stanza della Segnatura, the “School of Athens” depicts a grand gathering of the most brilliant minds of ancient history—some personified by the leading artists of the Renaissance including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Completed in 1511, 500 years ago, Raphael’s “School of Athens,” measuring in at a colossal 25' wide and 17' tall, hangs in what was intended to become a suite of apartments for Pope Julius II. Raphael, 25 when he arrived in Rome, was commissioned by the Pope to begin decorating the suite beginning with the Stanza della Segnatura. Actually the second of the frescoes to be completed after “La Disputa” on the opposing wall, the “School of Athens” depicts the school of philosophy and the love of higher learning. While many of the figures’ identities cannot be positively identified because Raphael never produced a legend for his painting, scholars have speculated based on their physical resemblance, save the few personified by the Renaissance masters; and the poses in which Raphael cast his leading men. However, we are certain about a select few including the painting’s central figures and even Raphael himself.

1: Zeno of Citium 2: Epicurus 3: unknown 4: Boethius or Anaximander or Empedocles? 5: Averroes 6: Pythagoras 7: Alcibiades or Alexander the Great? 8: Xenophon 9: unknown [14][13] or the Fornarina as a personification of Love [15] or (Francesco Maria della Rovere?) 10: Aeschines or Xenophon? 11: Parmenides? 12: Socrates 13: Heraclitus (Michelangelo) 14: Plato (Leonardo da Vinci) 15: Aristotle 16: Diogenes 17: Plotinus (Donatello?) 18: Euclid with students (Bramante?) 19: Zoroaster 20: Ptolemy? R: Apelles (Raphael) 21: Protogenes (Il Sodoma, Perugino, or Timoteo Viti). Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

Ironically, the “School of Athens” is set within Roman architectural elements inspired by Constantine’s colossal basilica in the Roman Forum. Flanking the central figures in the background are two sculptures that reveal the inspiration for this setting: Apollo, god of archery, light and music, to the left and Minerva, goddess of wisdom, on the right. As for our cast of characters, it would take volumes to discuss each one pictured in the “School of Athens” so let me point out a few of the more noteworthy members of this academic congregation. I think you’ll find it fascinating to say the least.

Plato and Aristotle, our leading men form the central focal point in Raphael's "School of Athens." Photo property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Our central central focal point is comprised of our leading men: Plato and Aristotle. On the left stands Plato who is depicted as the great Leonardo and clutched in his left hand is his “Timaeus” while his right hand points toward the heavens—a symbolic nod to the book and its arguments for the physical world as well as the eternal. Standing next to him is the much younger Aristotle at the prime of manhood and in his left hand is his “Ethics.” His right-hand gesture symbolizes the positive spirit and the practical living of the here and now.

To the left, we find the founder of western philosophy Socrates. Modeled after the famous marble bust of the first century, Socrates is seen here in his long green robe and gesturing toward Xenophon and other fellow philosophers.

Socrates pictured here in the green robe is modeled after the famous bust dating back to the first century. Photo: WikiMedia.org.

Just below Socrates and to the left, stands a figure in white flowing robes that according to the Vatican Museum is Francesco Maria Della Rovere, one of the Dukes of Urbino, however, some scholars believe this figure represents the manifestation for the “love of higher learning.”

Francesco Maria Della Rovere is pictured here in white flowing robes. Some scholars believe this figure represents the manifestation for the 'love of higher learning.' In front of Francesco, is Pythagoras teaching from his book. Photo: WikiMedia.org.

Moving down and a little further to the left, we find Pythagoras shown seated and teaching from with book. A philosopher and mathematician, Pythagoras is most famous for his Pythagorean Theorem in geometry. [Suddenly horrific flashes of my dreaded high-school Geometry classes flood my mind].

Toward the center and at the same level, we find Heraclitus, the “weeping philosopher.” Aptly named because of his lonely life and his contempt for humankind, [Reminds me of Scrooge] Heraclitus is personified by none other than Michelangelo. Originally, Heraclitus was not included in Raphael’s chalk cartoon but added later in tribute to the great Michelangelo after having seen his work on the Sistine Chapel.

Heraclitus, the “weeping philosopher”; so called because of the lonely life he led and his contempt for humankind, is personified by none other than Michelangelo. Photo: WikiMedia Commons.

Still at this lower level and to the right in a hunched-over position, we see Euclid, the “Father of Geometry” in his crimson robe and holding his compass. What’s particularly fascinating about this figure is that he modeled after Bramante, the architect hired by Pope Julius II to complete Saint Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, and the person responsible for bringing Raphael to Rome in the first place. If you look carefully at the back collar of his tunic, you will find Raphael’s signature: R.V.S.M. meaning Raphael Urbinas Sua Manu.

Euclid, pictured here, takes on the physical characteristics of Bramante, Pope Julius II's master architect overseeing the completion of Saint Peter's Basilica. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Last but certainly not least is the master artist Raphael himself who makes an appearance in the lower right standing behind a group of scholars nearest to the edge of the scene of the painting. He’s the only person peering directly out to the viewer—rather uncannily at that.

Raphael peers directly out to his audience in the "School of Athens" fresco inside the Vatican Museum. Photo property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

I hope you enjoyed this introduction to Raphael’s “School of Athens” at the Vatican Museum in Rome! If you want to see and find out more about this masterpiece and the rest of these scholarly gents, visit the Vatican Museum for an amazing virtual tour through the Stanza della Segnatura and the rest of the Raphael Rooms.

ArtSmart Roundtable Features:

The Cyclorama in Atlanta by Erin Halvey.
Frescoes in Florence, Italy by Jenna Francisco.
Frescoes, Wall Art and the Test of Time by Kelly Goodman.
Fresco Rescue and the Problem of Venice by Leslie Guettler.

Szentendre, Hungary: Colorful Past, Color-full Present

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

A double rainbow above the Danube at Szentendre. All content and photography in this article are property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

I am thrilled to welcome Guest Blogger Penny Ewles-Bergeron to EuroTravelogue. Also known as @abrushwithitaly on Twitter, Penny can't live without art, music, politics, food and travel. After years in London and Dublin, she now resides in Naples—which luckily provides plenty to paint, photograph and write about—truly, her "brush with italy." When she's not creating her masterpieces, Penny contributes regularly to ItalianNotebook.com where she imparts her knowledge and shares her experiences while she calls Napolitown home. At the end of this article, she gives her personal recommendations when visiting Szentendre so be sure to check them out. I hope you enjoy Penny's "impressions" of Szentendre, Hungary.

The delightful little Hungarian town of Szentendre (Saint Andrew) lies on the bank of the Danube not far from Budapest. An easy train or boat ride from the capital, it's a magnet for many summer visitors for its pretty alleyways and its baroque and rococo architecture.

Szentendre began life as a Roman fort when the Danube was the eastern extent of the empire. After centuries of settlement by Huns and Germanic tribes, Hungarians captured Szentendre in the 9th century and the old Roman watchtower became a fortress. Fast forward 300 years, Prince Taksony gave the place to one of his generals as a summer resort and Szentendre acquired its name from the church on the hill above the manor house.

Turkish rule came to the Buda region in 1541; Szentendre was laid waste and not liberated till 1684. There had already been an influx of Balkan settlers including Bulgarians and Dalmatians but in 1690 no fewer than 6,000 Serbs arrived and it is this group that left their impress on architectural style. Add in Greek and Romanian influences and you have a rich mix of cultures blending in one small town.

Church-building is a sign of prosperity; the baroque age was one of plenty for the merchants of Szentendre. Trades of all kinds grew up thanks to rich soils and easy river transport and wine producers did best of all. The Serbian Trade Guild formed in 1698 lasted 150 years. It was this Guild who erected the Memorial Cross that still stands in the main square, in gratitude that plague passed the town by.

The Serbian Merchants' Guild erected this memorial cross in thanks at being spared the plague. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Sadly, Szentendre was not spared other disasters. After the catastrophic flood of 1838 and the devastation of wine production due to phylloxera in 1882, many Serbians returned home; they were replaced by Slovak and German settlers. But the Serbian legacy is still tangible in the town.

The beautiful red tower of the Serbian Orthodox Church in striking contrast with the yellow of neighboring houses. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

A fine example of late Baroque ironwork by craftsman Márton Ginesser can be seen at the gate to the Orthodox Serbian church. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Through the gates to the magnificent Serbian church door. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

So many buildings in Szentendre are drenched in rich color – here is a small selection of views and details.

Blagovestenska Greek orthodox church after the rain. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Joie de vivre or joy in life expressed in paint. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Another handsome window in Szentendre. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Naples yellow and cream combine on this church. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Blue skies and sharp shadows help set off yellow walls to best effect. A house on Bártok Béla Utca. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Perhaps it is not surprising that artists and craftsmen and women love Szentendre. In fact it became an artists' colony in the late 1920's when Miklós Bánovszki and others began painting the streets and surrounding landscapes. More than 30 artists worked in or visited the town, including Béla Czóbel and his wife Mária Modok. Today a Czóbel Museum displays his work on church hill.
Szentendre's creative energy extends to true handmade crafts. Decorated pottery with vibrant glazes vie for attention with artisan printed blue-dyed fabrics, the famous kékfestés. The cloth is printed using patterned boards coated with resist paste then dipped in dark blue dye.

This blue printed fabric is one of the visual delights of Hungary. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

This shop displays the patterned boards used in printing the cloth. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Gorgeous displays of handmade pottery tempt the visitor. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

Perhaps the color we most associate with Hungary is the red of paprika, a culinary legacy from the Turkish occupation. In Szentendre the tradition of drying strings of peppers paints the town red.

Brilliant red paprika dries in the sun. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

But because I'm an artist, I'm going back to my favorite colors of yellow and blue. One house in Szentendre has always had my heart. Built in 1768, it was the home of Rab Ráby (prisoner Ráby). Instructed by the Austrian Emperor to investigate corruption concerns, Mátyás Ráby resisted bribes by local noblemen and found himself in jail. The story was written up as an epic tale by Mór Jókai. His house still stands and at all hours of the day the yellow walls just glow.

Afternoon sunshine on the walls of Rab Ráby House. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

I couldn't resist making a large scale painting of Ráby's House. Photo property of Penny Ewles-Bergeron. Please do not use without permission.

And while you're there, Penny recommends:

EAT: Since no-one can live on color alone, do feed the inner man or woman at Aranysárkany at H-2000 Alkotmány u.1/a, +36 26 301 479. This father/son run restaurant serves sensationally good food in a pretty, rustic setting. Quality ingredients, local produce, excellent wines and attentive, friendly service. Ask for Attila Mahr, or Attila Mahr junior! Aranysárkany.hu (English pages and menu)

SHOP: The Erdész Gallery displays and sells 20th and 21st century painting, sculpture, photography and jewellery. This is the most welcoming of establishments where you will be wowed by Hungarian creativity in every sphere of the arts. At H-2000 Bercsényi u.3. Tel: +36 26 317 925, Gallery Erdész (In Hungarian but with many easily-accessed images of current and past artifacts that have passed through the gallery.)

EXPLORE: Just outside Szentendre is the remarkable Hungarian Open Air Museum, where buildings from 9 regions of Hungary have been reassembled. In this folk museum or 'Skansen' (from the Scandinavian term) visitors can wander the village streets and explore the many architectural styles of the country; there are often craft demonstrations with re-enactors on hand plus magical music and dance events celebrating various festivals in regional village settings. Find the museum at H-2000 Sztaravodai út, +36 26 502 500. ComeToHungary.com (English)

In Pursuit of Provence, France—Hilltop Towns and Fields of Lavender

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 20:14:00 +0000

The allure of Provence, France, beckons with the sweet fragrance of lavender and historic sites of medieval towns. All photography in this article is the copyrighted works of Brian Jannsen unless noted. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Perhaps the most sublime in all of France, Provence evokes images of medieval towns, hills of lavender fields swaying in the breeze and the sweet romance of the sea. Stretching from the Alpine mountains through the meandering Rhône River valley before surrendering to the Mediterranean, the lands of Provence promise the most delightful and dramatic landscapes around every bend in the winding roadways throughout the region. Stop by one of the hilltop towns alive with bustling marketplaces and festivals throughout the year celebrating both the spiritual and secular. In the countryside, you’ll find rolling hills of lavender bursting with life and filling the air with the most intoxicating perfume imaginable. Later in the summer, fields of sunflowers bathed in golden light seem to disappear into the horizon. Perhaps it’s the romance of the sea that beckons? Head to the south of this region to Saint Tropez and Nice and let’s not forget the glitz and glamour of Cannes! It’s all here in Provence, France.

Throughout Provence, you'll motor along meandering tree-lined roadways such as this one near Saint-Remy-de-Provence. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Ah, but the undeniable allure of Provence is its light. Imbued with a unique quality of light that has lured many a brush and pen to this region, Provence was and is home to not only visual artists but writers as well. From Van Gogh, Cézanne and Picasso to Marcel Pagnol, Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, they were all here whether a fleeting visit or extended stay—Provence proved to be the promised land because of its uncanny ability to stir creativity that demands expression. With that said, we welcome the expressions of Brian Jannsen who brought to life Alsace and Bavaria on EuroTravelogue over the last couple of months and now, he directs his talents to the extraordinary light of Provence. As you’ll soon see, his images not only capture the beauty of the landscapes but the motion of the breezes in fields of lavender and sunflower.

Map of Provence, France. Image: Wikimedia.org.

If you’ve never visited Provence, it’s a region of France located in the southeast corner of the country and is comprised of many “departments” or counties including Var, Vaucluse, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes and parts of Hautes-Alpes. Our tour takes us through most of these regions starting with Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence in the north and ending with Bouches-du-Rhône and Alpes-Maritimes including Côte d’Azur in the south. At the end of this pictorial tour of Provence, find out how you learn to capture images like these on one of Brian’s photography tours planned for the upcoming year. And, Provence is on the list! Buckle up my friends and enjoy the ride through Provence, France. May it ignite the wanderlust from within as it did me!

Alpes-de-Haute-Provence—medieval towns and goat cheese?

The medieval village of Banon rises above the fields of lavender below. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Renowned for producing one of France’s best goat cheeses, Banon’s medieval town dates back to the 11th century. Its ancient architecture beautifully preserves its historic past and as you stroll along the cobblestoned streets, you certainly feel like you’ve stepped back in time. At the top this historic citadel stands the 17th-century Saint-Marc Church, just one of many churches in the village, others dating back to the 13th century. Collectively, they provide for a fascinating journey back in time. Make sure you find your way to the original ramparts from the ancient wall that fortified Banon for the most exhilarating view of the surrounding lavender plateau.

The Valensole lavender fields fill the air with an intoxicating fragrance of sweet perfume! Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

We now head to the hilltop town of Valensole, another medieval citadel that sits upon its perch above the sprawling lavender fields alive with vivid hues of color inducing perhaps the most intoxicating fragrance in all of Provence. The town itself winds up the hillside with its medieval streets lined with beautifully restored Provencal houses, shops and cafés, not to mention the bouleangerie! Dominating its skyline is the Church of Saint Denis with origins dating back to the 11th century but most of what we see today is the result of additions and renovations between the 13th and 18th centuries. There’s also a beautiful fountain in the Place Thiers.

Villages of Vaucluse—Popes and monks.

Gordes in the Luberon is home to the magnificent Abbaye de Sénanque. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

En-route to Avignon, we stop in Gordes in the Luberon, home to the magnificent Abbaye de Sénanque. Founded by Cistercian monks in 1148, the abbey remains their home and place of worship to this day. Its stone-cold façade provides a striking backdrop against the tender blooms of lavender swaying in the breeze.

Avignon aka 'City of Popes' is home to one of the most magnificent and largest Gothic palaces in the world—Palais des Papes or the Papal Palace. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Western Provence is home to the “City of Popes” also known as Avignon. Upon its hills, they built one of the most magnificent, let alone largest Gothic palaces in the world— Palais des Papes or the Papal Palace. The palace served as the seat of the Papacy during the 14th and early 15th centuries after Pope Clement V fled Rome’s San Giovanni de Lateran in 1305 due to the prevailing chaos after his election. In 1348, the Papal State purchased Avignon and retained control of the city until 1791 when it was reintegrated back into France after the French Revolution. The palace is a must-see on any Provencal itinerary!

Bouches-du-Rhône—bustling markets, lavender and art!

Later in the summer, fields of sunflowers bathed in golden light seem to disappear into the horizon. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

With origins dating back to the 6th century B.C., Arles features many a Roman ruin, intriguing museums, the Church of Saint Trophime with its magnificent “Last Judgment” sculpture surrounding the portal, and finally, the home of Vincent Van Gogh who produced nearly 300 works while in residence. There’s also the annual photography festival Recontres d’Arles near the French national school of photography.

Pigeons frolicking in the fountain at Place d'Albertas in Aix en-Provence. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Aix-en-Provence is the village featured in a wonderful book I am reading entitled "Taking Root in Provence" by Anne-Marie Simons. Simons introduces this quaint village and escorts us on a yearlong journey of cultural indulgency bringing to life rich traditions and customs as well as the surrounding landscapes. Aix was also home to Cézanne and Emile Zola, the writer who allegedly portrayed Cézanne as an artist “destined for doom” in his book “l’Oeuvre.”

Fresh from the harvest, delicious olives are sold in the Saint-Remy-de-Provence market—perhaps one of the best in all of Provence. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Saint-Remy-de-Provence, approximately 13 miles south of Avignon, boasts one of the best local markets in all of Provence and its village is bustling with shoppers converging upon its stalls brimming with farm-fresh produce, meats and fresh-baked goods. Definitely worth a stop here! Saint-Remy was also home Princess Caroline of Monaco after a tragic boating accident claimed the life of her husband, and Vincent Van Gogh who spent his final years in an asylum in St. Paul-de-Mausole. It was here that he produced a vast collection of masterpieces most notably “Starry Night,” inspired by the view outside his window. More ancient Roman ruins lie just to the south of Saint-Remy in Glanum.

Alpes-Maritimes—the French Riviera

Along the beautiful Côte d’Azur coastline, stands Èze with its million-dollar view of the French Riviera. This nighttime view shows Èze twinkling in foreground against Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat—popular with the royals and wealthy, and home to some of the world’s most expensive real estate. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Located along the beautiful coastline of Côte d’Azur about five miles east of Nice and a few miles west of Monaco, the medieval village of Èze sits upon its perch overlooking the French Riviera and the Mediterranean Sea. Inside, you’ll find cobblestoned streets, quaint cafés, and don’t miss the oldest building in town dating back to 1306—Chapelle de la Sainte Croix. But it’s the dazzling views from its hilltop location that draw tourists and residents alike.

The sun sets over the lavender plateau in Provence, France. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

And so the sun sets upon Provence, France, and our journey as well. I hope you enjoyed this tour through majestic valleys and hilltop towns, mosaics of lavender and gold, and muted blues of the sea and sky—a magical land imbued with dazzling light!

Brian Jannsen Photography

You too can visit Provence, France, to learn how to capture the light in images like these on one of Brian Jannsen’s European photo tours. If this is the first time you are seeing Brian’s work, let me tell you a little bit about this master of light and lens. Renowned for his award-winning photography published in books, calendars and magazines including National Geographic, Lonely Planet and Frommers [no surprises there!], Brian hosts photo tours throughout the year venturing through the most picturesque regions of Europe. While these are not photography workshops per se, Brian instructs fellow travelers on how to frame unforgettable vistas bathed in the most perfect light imaginable. If you want to find out more about his tours, visit BrianJannsen.com and explore his photo essays and upcoming itineraries for 2012. You can either book as part of a small group or on your own private tour. Either way, you're destined for greatness!

Brian Jannsen 2012 Photography Tours

Au Revoir from Provence, France!

EuroTravelogue's 2011 Highlights Including Favorite Pictures of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:52:00 +0000

A stop for la café and people watching is a must-do at the quintessential Parisian sidewalk café. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

It's hard to believe another year is over and now we are standing on the threshold of a brand new year full of new opportunities and new beginnings! I can hardly wait! But before we flip the calendars to 2012, let's reflect for a moment on where we've been in 2011, an extraordinary year for me and for EuroTravelogue. What started out as a part-time hobby has grown into a second full-time job for me, however, I use "job" extremely loosely as contributing to my blog and sharing the content with all of my readers, followers and friends has become my addiction, my enjoyment; my passion runs deep.

From Whence We Came

During the year, I introduced the EuroTravelogue brand and along with it, two domains: EuroTravelogue.com and EuroTravelog.com. With that, came fan pages on Facebook and Google+, and two new Twitter handles, @EuroTravelogue and @EuroTravelog to help me cast a wider net over all of you who crave EuroEuphoria, a condition I suffer from immensely! From there, I focused all of my efforts into my newly launched blog which has grown tremendously since my very first posts of two years prior.

Guest Bloggers and Partner Posts

My love affair with Alsace, France began when I first laid eyes up these enchanting photos of the ubiquitous storybook villages in the Alsace region of France. Photo: ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

In addition to my own European posts and photo essays throughout the year, I was thrilled to welcome my first Guest Blogger Jessica Spielgel whose tour through Pompeii and Herculaneum continues to drive unprecedented PVs to my site, actually it holds the all-time record! Another venture I launched was my first "Partner Post," with Brian Jannsen, the master of light and lens and responsible for the photography in Guided Tour Through Alsace and Christmas in Bavaria, the latter continues to drive unprecedented visits and is currently holding steady at an all-time high of #2, overtaking my very own Temple of Castor and Pollux in the Roman Forum which will finish the year in 3rd place. I am most grateful to each of them for their kind and generous contributions to EuroTravelogue.

ArtSmart Roundtable

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence houses one of Europe's finest art collections. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Another highlight of the year was my entry into the ArtSmart Roundtable, a group of art-aficionado travel bloggers who share my love of combining art and travel, and then sharing those findings with our readers so they too can appreciate art and architecture on journeys of their own.

Auld Lang Syne

There are so many highlights I want to share with you—through pictures, and so for you my readers, I present the visual romance of some of my favorite photographs in 2011. I hope you enjoy this journey through EuroTravelogue's Year in Pictures. To quote a most apropos song about remembering days gone by and looking ahead to the future, "Should old acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind, should old acquaintance be forgot, and old lang syne." Cheers to you and new beginnings in 2012!

Aerial view of Bernini's Saint Peter's Square at the Vatican in Rome, Italy. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The magnificent juxtaposition of the old and new at the Museé du Louvre in Paris, France. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Temple of Castor and Pollux in the Roman Forum in Italy. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

An enchanting cottage in the medieval village of Chartres, France. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Welcome to Montepulciano—Medieval splendor perched high atop the golden hills of Tuscany. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The colossal peaks of the Dolomites provide a dramatic backdrop to the alpine village of Castelrotto in northern Italy taken in this Guest Post by Gary P. Scott. Photo: Property of Gary P. Scott. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Saint Sulpice in Paris, France, just one of many European Cathedral posts throughout the year. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Around every corner in Venice, Italy, awaits a picturesque masterpiece! See more postcards from Venice. Photo: Property of EuroTravelogue™. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Christmas enchantment abounds along Rue des Marchands in Colmar, France in the Christmas in Alsace, France post.
© CRTA - Zvardon. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

The village square in Füssen, Germany is aglow the warmth of Christmas despite the blanket of snow in this Bavarian Christmas post. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

I hope you enjoyed this journey through Europe and through 2011. May 2012 bring you joy, prosperity and peace!

ArtSmart Roundtable: Tintoretto’s ‘Sistine’ Ceiling at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 20:56:00 +0000

Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice, Italy, is home to Tintoretto's Ceiling. Photography in this post is via Wikimedia.org and is public domain.

Welcome to ArtSmart Roundtable—a monthly series published by travel bloggers who are passionate about combining art and travel while exploring destinations around the world. This month’s topic is “Ceilings” and I chose “Tintoretto’s Sistine Ceiling.” Intriguing title, huh?

Tintoretto's Ceiling decorates the ceiling of the Sala Superiore on the upper floor of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice, Italy.

Ever since studying the masters of the Renaissance and Mannerism periods, I have wanted to see the Tintoretto’s Ceiling of the upper salon at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice, Italy. Often compared to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, I had to see for myself how such comparisons could be made to one of the most highly respected and admired artists of all time. Fueled by my passion for art, I set out on a mission while in Venice to see this Grand Sala and to satiate my curiosity surrounding “Tintoretto’s Sistine Ceiling,” an extraordinary collage of 21 canvassed paintings affixed to the ceiling of the Sala Superiore.

But before we dive deeper into the ceiling, I have to share an anecdote I read in Peter Ackroyd’s “Venice: Pure City” about Vasari’s account of how Tintoretto won the commission to decorate the ceiling and walls of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. According to Ackroyd and Vasari, the artists of the time were asked to present sketches for the central panel of the Sala dell’Albergo ceiling, a smaller chamber off the Grand Hall on the upper level of the school. Instead of presenting a sketch as requested, Tintoretto in a brilliant “stroke” of genius that ultimately earned him the commission, merely pointed up to the ceiling to showcase his entry. Affixed to the ceiling was not a sketch but a completed painting for the Guild to scrutinize, and what makes this really special is that he offered it as his gift to the school whether or not he won the commission. His “Glory of San Rocco” still hangs there today.

Tintoretto's "Glory of San Rocco" earned Tintoretto the commission to decorate the Scuola Grande di San Rocco halls.

Having won the commission as the result of his ingenious presentation, Tintoretto and his assistants completed the paintings on ceilings and walls between 1564 and 1587. The Sala Superiore is a tapestry of 21 panels depicting scenes from the Old Testament and set within highly ornate wood and gilded framework creating extraordinary masterpieces of each of these canvas paintings. The panels are organized around the three central canvases depicting the plagues suffered by man: thirst, hunger and disease. “Moses Drawing Water from the Rock" represents water, “The Brazen Serpent” represents disease and “The Miracle of Manna” represents bread and hunger. It’s no coincidence that these themes are accentuated inside a school that takes its name from their patron Saint Roch or San Rocco, protector against the plague.

Starting work on the Sala Superiore’s ceiling in 1575, Tintoretto completed the 21 panels in all. While a review on each warrants an individual post, let’s take a look at some of the highlights:

“The Brazen Serpent” was the first of the ceiling’s paintings and was completed in 1576. While en route to the Red Sea, the Israelites are plagued by serpents sent by God for their complaints against Him and Moses. Moses is shown here, upper left, holding a cross with a bronze serpent that healed all those seeking redemption in the Lord. This particular painting also served as a poignant reminder of the 1576 plague that wiped out a quarter of Venice’s population in just two years.

“The Brazen Serpent” was the first of the ceiling’s paintings and was completed in 1576.

In “Moses Drawing Water from the Rock,” God is shown floating on His diaphanous globe and assisting Moses in his quest to quench the thirst of the parched Israelites. If you look in the middle-right background, you will see the Israelite camps under attack by the Amalekites.

Tintoretto's "Moses Drawing Water from the Rock"

“The Miracle of Manna” depicts the miracle of raining manna or Eucharistic wafers from the darkened sky from God to the Israelites after their exodus from Egypt.

In the "Miracle of Manna," wafers or Eucharists rain down from darkened skies to bring food to the Israelites.

“The Pillar of Fire” sent by God materialized in the desert to thwart advances by the Egyptians as the Israelite’s fled into the parted Red Sea.

Tintoretto's "Pillar of Fire" was sent by God to impede advances by the Egyptians as they fled into the Red Sea.

The remaining 17 paintings include: “Original Sin,” “Moses Saved From the Waters,” “The Three Men in the Furnace,” “God Appears to Moses,” “Samson Drinks Water From the Donkey’s Jaw,” “Jonah Leaves the Whale’s Body,” “Samuel and Saul,” “The Vision of Ezekiel,” “Jacob’s Ladder,” “The Vision of Jeremiah,” “The Sacrifice of Isaac,” “Elijah on the Burning Chariot,” “Elisha Multiplies the Bread,” “Elijah Fed by the Angel,” “Abraham and Melchizedek,” “Passover,” and “Daniel is Saved by the Angel.”

Take a virtual tour through the Sala Superiore at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. You will need a Quicktime plugin to view this extraordinary look at the Sala and Tintoretto’s ceiling and wall paintings.

Additional Tintoretto works inside the Scuola Grande di San Rocco

In addition to the ceiling, Tintoretto completed the walls of the Sala Superiore but with the stories of Christ and the New Testament, the ceiling and walls of the Sala dell’Albergo, and the Sala Terra on the ground floor with his “Annunciation” among others from the New Testament.

Background on the Scuola Grande di San Rocco building

Dedicated to San Rocco or Saint Roch, the protector against the plague, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco was designed and built by a confraternity or guild of some of the wealthiest Venetian citizens in the 16th century. It's located in the San Polo sestiere in Venice, next door to the Chiesa San Rocco—another edifice that Tintoretto decorated as well and from which the Scuola derives its name.

As I alluded at the beginning of this article, the Sala Superiore does bear a striking resemblance to the Sistine Chapel for a few reasons specifically as it relates to subject matter of the ceilings being that of Old Testament while the walls, or half of the walls in the case of the Sistine, being that of the New Testament. In addition, both represent extraordinary work by each of the artists. However, I think that's where the comparison ends. Each deserves its own time in the spotlight so to speak. But I must say this...had it not been for such a comparison, my curiosity may not have been piqued and my discovery of Tintoretto's ceiling may not have ever happened. All in all, the next time you visit Venice, make sure you save a few hours to admire the magnificent art throughout the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and let me know what you think.

More ArtSmart December Features:

The Amazing Waterproof Ceiling at Newgrange by Erin Malvey
The Dome Of Florence by Jenna Francisco
Ceilings and the Art of Looking Up by Kelly Goodman

Additional Venice Reading:

NORAD Tracks Santa Claus on Christmas Eve!

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 22:01:00 +0000

NORAD Santa Tracker--an exciting new Christmas tradition for the 21st century.

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the lands, the people tracked Santa on NORAD’s webcams … “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” with a 21st-century spin. There’s a new Christmas Eve tradition in my family that has proven to delight young and old alike—tracking Santa Claus on his flight. With help from our friends at NORAD, you and your family too can track Santa Claus as he journeys around the world on Christmas Eve!

Since 1955, our friends at the North American Aerospace Defense Command or NORAD have been tracking Santa Claus on his biggest night of the year! From the North Pole to the Far East and due west to Hawaii, Santa covers every corner of our world all in one day. And with the help of Google Earth, we get a “Santa’s-eye” view of the world with video vignettes and audio tales of cultures and traditions as he visits world-renowned cities and landmarks. Along the way, you’ll see the mysterious lands of the Orient, pyramids of Egypt, ancient ruins in Rome and Greece, enchanting European villages not to mention the capital cities of London, Paris and Rome. Plus, a visit to the Big Apple and Rio de Janeiro too. And so much more!

It all started during the 1955 Christmas season when an advertisement for a Colorado Springs-based Sears, Roebuck and Co. printed the wrong telephone number to call Santa. Instead of reaching the North Pole, the phone rang into the office of the Commander-in-Chief’s hotline at CONAD, NORAD’s predecessor. Imagine his surprise! What makes this story so special and full of the spirit of Christmas is that instead of disappointing the children with his replies of “wrong number,” the Director of Operations at that time, Colonel Harry Shoup, instructed his staff to “check the radar and report out on Santa’s flight from the North Pole.” From that first magical night, the NORAD Santa Tracker tradition was born.

I first discovered NORAD Santa Tracker about four years ago and immediately fell under its enchantment. When I first saw the videos of Santa flying through the night with Rudolph’s red glow leading the way, I found it fascinating and could only imagine how thrilling it would be for our little believers. Personally, I like sharing the NORAD Santa Tracker with my now, six-year-old nephew whose face is as bright as Rudolph’s nose as he watches Santa fly through the night eventually making his way to our little corner of the world. I think I have more fun than he does and your kids will too! It’s a perfect combination of education and holiday fun as you and your kids discover the world’s sights and listen to the local Christmas customs and traditions. And, don’t worry if you’ve missed one of Santa’s stops along the way, just click on the little video icon on the map and relive his visit and listen to his tale.

Visit NORADSanta.org now and you’ll find a lot of Christmas themed content and information about NORAD including:

Kids' Countdown Village: Games and activities for the kids including a countdown clock until Santa’s big departure
Videos from troops and students around the world
Information on NORAD—US and Canadian military organization created in 1958 whose primary responsibility is the aerospace and maritime defense of both countries in North America
Operation Goodwill–videos and websites dedicated to the support our nation’s service members
History of Santa Claus
Social Media: Track Santa on Facebook, Twitter and Google+

Come back here on Christmas Eve and you can track Santa too. The map below will display his wondrous journey around the world once he begins his Christmas flight. If you’re like me and can’t wait until December 24, then see the video below highlighting Santa’s 2010 journey around the world:

NORAD Santa Tracker

Video highlights of Santa's journey in 2010

More European Christmas:

Christmas in Alsace, France

Silver White Winters Aglow with Christmas Light in Bavaria, Germany

European Christmas Legends and Traditions

Christmas in Bavaria, Germany – Impressions of a Wintry Wonderland

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 23:37:00 +0000

Winter splendor in Bavaria, Germany. Castle Hohenschwangau is seen here above the village against the backdrop of the Alps. All photography in this post: ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Snowcapped mountaintops, fairy tale castles and Alpine villages glistening in white—this is Christmas in Bavaria, Germany! Along Germany’s Romantic Road from Würzberg in the north to Füssen in the south, this wintry wonderland blankets almost one-fifth of Germany and offers some of the most picturesque settings in all of Europe. Home to capital city of Munich; Nuremberg with the oldest Christmas market in Germany; Augsburg; Würzburg and Ingollstadt to name a few, Bavaria is also home to the one of the most recognized castles in the world and one of my favorites – Castle Neuschwanstein. During the Christmas holidays, Bavaria’s aglow in its blanket of snow with vibrant Christkindlmarkts, storybook villages and mighty castles set against the backdrop of the majestic Alps.

Castle Neuschwanstein - the fairy tale castle for the fairy tale King Ludwig II. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

I owe huge thanks as well as applause to Brian Jannsen, master of light and lens, who’s responsible for these magnificent Bavarian landscapes. If you enjoyed our first collaboration on the villages of Alsace, you’re going to love this. On this picturesque tour through Bavaria, we’ll visit Neuschwanstein, Hohenschwangau, the quaint village streets and shops in Füssen, Saint Mang and Saint Coloman. Won’t you come along?

Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany rises majestically against the soaring Alps. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Perched upon the Alpine mountaintops stands one of the most recognized castles in the world—Castle Neuschwanstein. King Ludwig II ordered the design and construction of this medieval fortress, which is not actually medieval at all, in 1868. Opening just 18 years later, Neuschwanstein was home to Ludwig for only a short while before his premature death. However, he left a legacy of castle splendor behind in this colossal fortress including lavishly decorated walls with scenes and characters based on Richard Wagner’s operas. Actually, it is because of these paintings that he earned the nickname of Fairytale King. You’ll also find a Throne Room, a spectacular two-story grand hall inspired by Byzantine architecture; elaborate oak paneling decorated with bas-relief carvings in the dining room; silks and delicate embroidery embellishing the walls of Ludwig’s ornate bedroom; and even a small grotto replete with stalactites and stalagmites! One thing is certain, despite his “madness,” Ludwig’s imagination knew no limits. Seven weeks after Ludwig’s death in 1886, Castle Neuschwanstein opened its doors to the public and has welcomed visitors ever since.

Hohenschwangau

Hohenschwangau Castle, home to King Maximilian II, was where King Ludwig II spent his childhood. Seen here in this dramatic photograph, the warmth of the floodlit castle contrasts starkly with the frigid Alpine mountaintops in the background. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Nearby to Castle Neuschwanstein, Castle Hohenschwangau stands perched above its namesake village and is where Ludwig spent his childhood. It was his father, King Maximilian II of Bavaria, who built Castle Hohenschwangau in the 19th century upon the remains of the medieval fortress Schwanstein which dates back to the 12th century. King Maximilian II purchased the land in 1832 and construction began a year later. Completed in 1837, Castle Hohenschwangau served as the summer home to the King and his wife Queen Marie of Prussia and their two sons, Ludwig and Otto, both of whom succeeded the throne of Bavaria. It wasn’t until the last of the family members died that the castle opened as a museum in 1913.

The village of Hohenschwangau lies at the base of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles. Tickets for one or both of the castles must be purchased in the village before visiting. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Füssen

The village square in Füssen, Germany is aglow the warmth of Christmas despite the blanket of snow. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Renowned for its Hohes Schloss of Füssen, an extraordinary Gothic castle landmark that served as the summer home of the prince bishops of Augsburg; Füssen boasts a 700-year-old village that was once Europe’s commercial center of lute and violin manufacturing. Inside the San Mang Abbey’s courtyard, you’ll find Füssen’s Christmas market alive with the heavenly scents of roasted apples and glühwein wafting through the air and wooden chalets brimming with handcrafted gifts and decadent bites of deliciousness. Outside the abbey, stroll along the storied lanes lined with shops brimming with holiday gifts and mouthwatering pastries as well.

One of many of the tantalizing Christmas window displays in the village of Füssen, Germany. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Saint Mang Abbey

Just one of the many frescoes of the Saint Mang Abbey in Füssen, Germany. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Steeped in over 1,000 years of history, this former Benedictine Monastery of Saint Mang houses a vast collection of art and artifacts. Inside, its Baroque halls and the Füssen Heritage Museum, you’ll discover exquisite sculptures, paintings and frescoes decorated throughout.

Saint Coloman

Saint Coloman Chapel in Füssen, Germany has been a pilgrimage site since the 15th century. ©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Located only two miles from Castle Neuschwanstein is the picturesque Baroque church of Saint Coloman in Schwangau which still serves as a major pilgrimage site since the 15th century. Each year on the Sunday nearest to October 13, the surrounding towns celebrate Saint Coloman Day with a feast to honor the saint who was accused of being a spy and thus captured, tortured and executed for while traveling on his own pilgrimage from his home country of Ireland to Jerusalem.

I leave you with these parting shots. I hope you enjoyed this wintry tour of silent nights and glistening whites of winter splendor in Bavaria.

©BrianJannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Brian Jannsen Photography

As I mentioned above, these photos were taken by Brian Jannsen on his last tour through Bavaria. If you don’t know Brian, he’s renowned for his award-winning photography and has been published in books, calendars and magazines including National Geographic, Lonely Planet and Frommers. Throughout the year, Brian hosts photo tours in Europe and the U.S. and while these are not photography workshops per se, Brian instructs fellow travelers on how to capture the most perfect light while framing unforgettable views of the picturesque landscapes. If you would like to join Brian on one of his photo tours whether it’s with a group or on a private tour, check out his schedule of upcoming tours in 2012.

Brian Jannsen Photography Tours

Additional Reading:

Christmas Markets in Alsace, France—Fairy Tale Villages Light Up With Christmas Cheer

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 22:23:00 +0000

Christmas enchantment abounds along Rue des Marchands in Colmar, France. © CRTA - Zvardon. All images in this post are property of Alsace Tourism and are copyrighted. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Do you believe in Christmas magic? You will by the time you visit the enchanting Christmas markets of Alsace, France! The Christkindelsmäriks or Christmas markets of Alsace have long attracted visitors as well as locals since the 16th century, namely Strasbourg with its Christmas Market established in 1570. From the moment you arrive, you find these storybook villages come to life with vibrant markets, twinkling lights and delightfully decorated stalls brimming with hand-crafted gifts and ornaments not to mention the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air with the promise of gourmet delights and spicy mulled wine. Alsace celebrates the Seven Lands of Christmas from Haguenau in the north to Mulhouse in the south and is a journey of holiday splendor from one village decked out in its finest to the next—all welcoming visitors and residents alike to revel in the sights and sounds of Christmas! If you enjoy Christmas as much as I do, you must visit one of these Alsatian Christmas markets during the holidays!

Strasbourg

Strasbourg's Place de la Cathédrale in France is lined with market chalets brimming with gifts and tasty treats.
© CRTA - Zvardon

Steeped in history and tradition, Strasbourg’s Christmas market has been drawing visitors since 1570 thus making it France’s oldest. Each year, a country is invited to be the official Guest of Honor and this year, you’ll find the cultures and traditions of Switzerland flourishing in Place Gutenberg alive with folk music, Swiss cuisines and handcrafted gifts. Listen carefully for the sounds of carolers carried on the wind as you make your way through the colorful chalets of the Christmas market. The main markets are located in Place de la Cathédrale, Place Gutenberg, Place Broglie, Place Kléber is filled with cakes and breads, Petite France is home to fresh produce and to fresh-baked gingerbread, and finally Place de la Gare.

Hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Strasbourg's Christmas Market Chalets offer delightfully decorated stalls brimming with hand-crafted gifts and ornaments not to mention the tantalizing aromas wafting through the air with the promise of gourmet delights and spicy mulled wine. © CRTA - Meyer.

Sélestat

Moving south to Sélestat, you’ll find the Land of the Christmas Trees in this central Alsatian province. Within the Humanist Library, there are historical accounts revealing the very first documented sale of Christmas trees dating back to 1521. Did you know that in the 15th century, Christmas trees were first decorated with ribbons and colored paper with apples and candies as ornaments? It wasn’t until the 18th century when candles were placed in holders on the trees and not until the 19th century when glass balls replaced the red apples.

Hours run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays and from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Colmar

Perhaps one of the most picturesque of all the Alsatian villages, Colmar is home to the 2nd largest Christmas market in Alsace, France. © CRTA - Meyer.

Claiming title as the 2nd largest Christmas market in Alsace, France is Colmar. Perhaps one of the most picturesque of all the Alsatian villages, here you are immersed in Christmas sublime with storybook timber-framed buildings beautifully decorated with sparking lights and festive garlands creating an ambiance that is truly Christmas. There are four main markets in Colmar: Place Jeanne d'Arc is brimming with tempting gourmet delights; Place de I’Ancienne Douane features handcrafted gifts and toys plus tempting morsels; Place des Six Montagnes Noires caters to children with toys and treats; and finally in Place des Domincans, you’ll find all the Christmas trees, garlands and holly plus countless decorations you’ll need.

Hours may vary by location but generally run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m on Sundays through Thursdays with extended hours to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Shorter hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. After Christmas, the markets are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through New Year’s Eve.

Mulhouse

Renowned for its Christmas fabric, the Mulhouse Christmas market in Place de la Réunion is draped with festive garlands and fabrics. © CRTA - Meyer.

Renowned for its unique Christmas fabric manufactured by local businesses just for the Christmas market, Mulhouse’s Place de la Réunion is draped in festive décor from its lavishly decorated buildings to its Christmas market chalets brimming with homemade gingerbread, scrumptious delicacies, handcrafted ornaments and toys. Combine the scents of mulled wine and cinnamon with the sounds of Christmas carolers, and you complete the Christmas theme in the village square. Plus when night falls, the City Hall is transformed into a giant Advent calendar from December 1 to 24 and each night, one window opens up to reveal hidden surprises while troubadours recount the stories of the Nativity!

Mulhouse Christmas market is open now through December 29 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays with extended hours to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. This market is closed on Christmas Day.

I hope you enjoyed this tour through the Christmas Markets of Alsace, France. As you can see, they are filled with the classic traditions and Christmas wonder that we all have come to love during this festive time of the year. Are you planning to visit these or any other European Christmas markets? Please tell me about your plans and share you experiences for the readers.

I leave you with these parting shots of the magical Alsatian Christmas Markets.

Joyeux Noël!

Kaysersberg, Alsace, France is yet another picturesque village with storybook houses adorned in their holiday best.© CRTA - Meyer.

The Christmas market in Place Kléber in Strasbourg sparkles in a tapestry of Christmas lights in this dramatic aerial view of the square. © CRTA - Meyer.

Additional Reading:

European Christmas Legends and Traditions—a Look to the Past and Present

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 19:53:00 +0000

The Jena Christkindlmarkt or Christmas Market in Germany. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wikimedia.org Rene S.

From Advent to Christmas to the Epiphany, the holidays herald time-honored traditions and customs that bring the sights and sounds of the season to life throughout Europe and all the world. Truly, it is the most wonderful time of the year. But did you ever wonder how we got here and why we celebrate the religious and secular traditions that we do? As we gather with family and friends this holiday season to recount the stories of Christmas, let us not forget from whence we came. Join me on this journey through the past and present of Christmas legends and traditions.

Advent: November 27 – December 25

The Advent wreath marks the passage of the season by lighting one of the four candles on each Sunday during Advent. Pictured above, are three Advent-purple candles and one rose. This rose candle is lit on the third Sunday of Advent or Gaudete Sunday in celebration of the Christmas season and thus combines the colors of Advent-purple with Christmas-white—the white candle is placed in the center and lit on Christmas Day. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wikimedia.org Jonathunder.

Today, marks the first Sunday of Advent, a time when Christians around the world celebrate the “adventus” or coming of Christ—a season of redemption and hope for life everlasting. Commemorating the affirmation that Christ has come, Christ is here, and Christ is yet to come, Christians celebrate Advent with myriad traditions. From adoring interiors with living greens–symbolic of the promise of life everlasting and renewal, to the lighting of the five candles of the Advent wreath, Advent is also time to find hidden treasures waiting behind the closed doors of the Advent calendar as well as a visit to one of the vibrant Advent or Christmas markets throughout Europe. Beginning on the first Sunday of the new Western church calendar, Advent Sunday falls on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and is observed for the following four weeks until Christmas Day.

Advent in Brussels from Christoph on Vimeo.

Finding Sinterklaas: November 19 – December 5 and 6

Sinterklaas and Black Pete arrive in Rotterdam, Netherlands on November 19 to mark the beginning of Sinterklaas Season. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wikimedia.org Arch.

Do you know of the legend of Sinterklaas? Originally thought to be unique to the Netherlands, Sinterklaas is actually celebrated throughout Europe and the traditions vary depending upon where you live.

According to legend, Sinterklaas or Saint Nicholas, Patron Saint of Children, spends most of the year in Spain watching over the children and checking to see who has been naughty and who has been nice. Sound familiar? As November approaches, he and his helper Black Pete pack up all the gifts into one giant sack, and together with Sinterklaas’ trusty steed Amerigo or Schimmel as he is known locally, the trio embarks on a steamer for one of the port towns in the Netherlands in mid-November. This year, he arrived in Rotterdam on November 19 to the roars of the crowd who gathered to watch the noontime parade followed by Sinterklaas’ greeting to the children of the world. Thus, the ceremony officially kicks off Sinterklaas Season.

As the story goes, on December 5 or Sinterklaas Eve, he flies through the night to deliver his gifts to all of the good boys and girls around the world. With his mighty steed Amerigo and his helper Black Pete, they alight upon the rooftops where Sinterklaas listens carefully at the chimney for sounds of good behavior and if all is well, he sends Amerigo down the chimney to replace the carrot and straw left in the children's shoes with special gifts.

Today, believers in Sinterklaas leave their shoes by the fireplaces in hopes of receiving their presents. Upon waking in the morning, each opens a gift and reads a short poem that reveals a little known fact or something humorous about the recipient. After all the gifts are opened, the Sinterklaas Feast is served.

Winter Solstice—Odin and the Yule Celebration: December 22

Odin the Wanderer from the Nordic traditions of the Winter Solstice celebration of Yule. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wikimedia.org Public Domain.

Have you ever wondered about the origins of our beloved Santa and his eight tiny reindeer? And why do celebrate at this time of the year? Throughout history, many legends recount the tales of a benevolent being who travels furtively by the winter’s night bearing gifts for children around the world. But have you heard of Odin the Wanderer and his eight-legged horse Sleipner?

Long before Christianity spread throughout the world, Pagan rituals and customs were prevalent throughout the lands but it was in northern Germany and Scandinavia that Odin can trace his roots back to the celebration of Yule—a pagan religious festival heralding the arrival of the winter solstice from mid-December to early January. During this time, many believed that Odin, disguised in a long blue-hooded cloak, would travel to earth by night with his eight-legged horse Sleipner to help those in need of food. Why is he missing an eye? To gain knowledge of the past, present and future, Odin had to drink from the Well of Wisdom but for a price. Ultimately, he sacrificed his left eye and today, it lies at the bottom of this Well of Wisdom as a symbol of the price he paid for the wisdom he possesses.

As traditions grew over time, the children of these lands would anticipate the arrival of gift-bearing Odin and would fill their boots with straw, carrots or sugar, and place them near the fireplace so that Sleipnir could come down to eat during his midnight rides. Odin would then reward these kind children by replacing the food with gifts and candy.

Here's a fascinating animated short "The Night Before Christmas, Or Yuletide or such..." by Celestial Elf recounting the legend of Odin the Wanderer.

Christmastide: December 25 – January 6.

Giotto's "Adoration of the Magi" shows the Three Kings arriving and bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the Baby Jesus. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wikimedia.org Public Domain.

Beginning on Christmas Day, the Twelve Days of Christmas mark the time from the Nativity to the Epiphany—the birth of the Savior to the day God revealed Himself unto the gentiles and the Magi or Three Kings. With that said and contrary to modern belief, the Twelve Days of Christmas are those that follow Christmas, not those that come before. It begins on Christmas night and concludes on the Twelfth Night or evening of January 5 with the Feast of the Epiphany or Three Kings Day following on the next.

Christmastide is a time when Christians celebrate the Glory of God and His gift bestowed upon man as promised by the Angel Gabriel’s proclamation of "good tidings and great joy"—the gift that would bring forth good will and peace for all—the Birth of the Savior.

Did you know?

While "Twelve Days of Christmas" is usually sung during the holidays, its origins can be traced back to the 16th century when it was taught to children as a mnemonic device for learning the Christian faith. As you know, each verse begins with the lines “On the # day of Christmas, my true love gave to me…,” "my true love" refers to God and "me" represents every baptized Christian in the world. The partridge in a pear tree symbolizes the Baby Jesus whom God gave to the world on this first day of Christmas. The second day brought "Two Turtle Doves" or the Old and New Testaments. On the third day, "three French hens" represent the three religious virtues of Faith, Hope and Love. “Four calling birds” embody Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. And for you trivia buffs, “five golden rings” are the first five books of the Bible known as the Torah. “Six geese-a-layin'” represent the six days of creation. “Ten lords-a-leapin'” represent the Ten Commandments, and finally, “eleven pipers piping” represent 11 Apostles sans Judas.

How do you celebrate the Christmas holidays? What customs and traditions passed down by generations do you and your family embrace? Please share your Christmas stories and celebrations with all of us.

A Spectacular Summer in the Dolomites, the 'Other' Joy of Italy

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 23:33:00 +0000

A flowering meadow bursting with color provides a beautiful foreground leading you into a glacial valley in the majestic Dolomites of northern Italy. All photography in this post is property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

This week, I am honored to introduce my guest adventurer Gary Scott of RightPathAdventures. You may know him as @DolomitesGuide on Twitter but if you don't, he's a world-class mountaineer and guide, published author and mentor who just happened to set the world record for a speed solo ascent of Alaska's Denali (Mt. McKinley)—25 years ago! Today, Gary leads trekkers on adventures that bring them in personal contact with cultures and places that most of us only ever read or dream about. From Australia to England to Pakistan, Italy and Nepal, not to mention 10 cities across the U.S., Gary has personally led over 100 international expeditions to many of the world's greatest wonders and now, concentrates his efforts on the majestic Dolomites mountains in northern Italy. I hope you enjoy this virtual expedition through the Italian Dolomites with Gary and if you want to find out more about him or his tours around the world, visit his site above and send him an email (address at end of article) too!

The craggy spires of Dolomites contrast against the deep-blue skies beyond. Striking vantage points are yours for the taking as you hike along the Dolomites.

Many people imagine visiting the classic cities and sites of Italy, from the ruins of the Roman Colosseum to the iconic Leaning Tower in Pisa, cruising the canals of Venice or strolling the paths of the Cinque Terre. But the Italians themselves, and some savvy foreign travelers, have long known the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites mountains north of Venice should not be missed!

Around every peak and mountaintop lie magnificent vistas waiting your discovery when hiking along in the Dolomites. Photo is property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

I discovered the Dolomites a few years back and after a lifetime of mountaineering and guiding, I decided I needed to share this region with like-minded outdoors lovers. Here are some high points, pun intended, from my 2011 tours.

We covered a lot of ground this past summer season of touring the Italian Dolomites. Some of the highlights included the expected – and always granted – stunning mountain vistas and verdant lower hillsides.

How would you like to stop for a respite at a mountaintop refuge to sample these delectable pastries? Photo property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

We enjoyed leisurely strolls, half-day hikes and offered intensive trail running for those so inclined–always with a midday stop at a refugio for minestrone, cappuccino, speck (the local ham specialty) and strudel.

The music of the mountains offers a backdrop of trickling streams, breezes through pine needles, bird song and the ever-present sheep and cowbell choirs.

In addition to cows and sheep we met along the way, we encountered other friends in the Dolomites as well. Photo property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

Some guests opted for mountain biking, paragliding or shopping on some days, and the nights were always filled with delicious food, wine, laughter, evening walks for gelato, and at times dancing.

The colossal peaks of the Dolomites provide a dramatic backdrop to the alpine village of Castelrotto in northern Italy. Photo property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

Throughout the expeditions, we enjoyed an abundance of sunny days, a few misty mornings, pink lightning storms at night, and even light snow flurries amidst the sunshine. Not only did we visit churches, castles and World War I trenches along the way, we were graced with extraordinary wildlife sightings which helped us stay the course of taking our time to stop and smell the roses.

I really do feel the Dolomites are the best-kept secret in Europe for an all-around invigorating and inspiring vacation. Feel free to email me at rightpathadventures@me.com if you’re interested in delving in. We’re already booking 2012! I wish you happy travels.

Gary, left, and a member of his hiking tour stop for a short respite at one of the mountaintop refugios or refuges. Photo property of Gary P. Scott. Please do not use without permission.

Guided Tour Through the Storybook Villages of Alsace, France

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 16:53:00 +0000

Welcome to enchanting Riquewihr in Alsace, France, the first of many storybook villages on our journey through one of the most beautiful and picturesque regions of France, or the world for that matter. All photography ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

I am so excited to announce my Guest Photographer Brian Jannsen who is solely responsible for capturing the splendor of Alsace, France, in this article. As soon as I saw his Alsatian photo essay, I fell under its enchantment, and you will too when you see how beautifully he masters light to convey visual romance and warmth that is beyond words. Join us on this photo tour through Alsace, France, and at the end of the article, you can read more about Brian’s photography and his tours through these and other enchanting places. Thank you Brian, for your gift of magic!

A Guided Tour Through the Storybook Villages of Alsace, France

Tucked in the northeastern region of France between the foothills of the Vosges Mountains to the west and the Rhine River and Black Forest to the east, the beautiful Alsace province is home to storybook villages, magnificent castles, one of France’s top producing wine regions, and is steeped in history and tradition. Roughly the size of Los Angeles and stretching from Strasbourg to Mulhouse, Alsace covers 8,280 sq. km. or 4,000 sq. miles and offers up the some of the most scenic landscapes and picturesque settings in France, not to mention one enchanting village after the next—each with its own unique story to tell. When you visit, you can’t help but feel like you’re stepping into the pages of a fairy tale as you walk down through the quaint streets lined with half-timbered houses, shops, cafes and more. It’s magical! Let’s not waste another moment and embark on our journey through the Alsace province in France.

Historical Highlights

Steeped in history spanning 2,000 years, the Alsace region can trace its roots back to the days of the Roman Empire from whence it survived a tumultuous history through to the end of WWII. After Rome fell, it was known as Alemanni at which time the first Alsatian dialect was spoken. From there, it went on to become part of Austrasia in the 5th century and then under the control of the Holy Roman Empire until the 17th century. After enduring the French Revolution, it fell victim to a brutal 75-year-long tug of war in 1871 between France and Germany when possession changed ownership four times with France claiming victory at the end of WWII. Today, evidence of this blended heritage, both French and German, can be seen throughout the region through its architecture, museums, medieval castles, wines and people. Needless to say, Alsace remains a top destination for tourists and historians alike.

The Villages of Alsace

We begin our journey at the northern city of Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace and the oldest city in the province as well. From there, we journey south to Riquewihr, Kaysersberg and finally Colmar, the wine capital of Alsace. Anyone up for a toast?

Strasbourg

Notre Dame de Strasbourg in the heart of the historical city center. All photography ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Capital city of Alsace and seat of the European Parliament, Strasbourg is the region’s oldest city and sits at the crossroads of Europe because of its central European location. Rich in heritage and traditions, the historic center of Strasbourg or Grande Ile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988, is the city’s oldest and contains the most historic buildings and monuments including the Strasbourg cathedral or Notre Dame de Strasbourg which was begun in 1015 and completed in 1439 despite its missing bell tower. Right now, it is the world’s sixth-tallest cathedral! Also, make sure you visit the Kammerzell House, famous for its well-preserved late-Gothic ornate architecture. There are many other discoveries awaiting in this Alsatian capital city of Strasbourg.

After leaving Strasbourg and before arriving in the next village on our tour, Riquewihr, make sure you detour on D159 to the Haut Koenigsbourg Castle for jaw-dropping views of the Alsatian plain. Dating back to the 12th century, the castle was originally known as Staufenberg until 1192 when it became the Royal Castle or Koenigsbourg. Did you know there are more than 400 castles in every state imaginable throughout Alsace?

Riquewihr

Le Dolder Tower was built in the 13th century and intended to intimidate the enemies on approach to this village. Today, it houses an art and folk museum as well as tools and artifacts used in the region's wineries. All photography ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Perhaps the most enchanting of the villages pictured in this article as well as my favorite is the town of Riquewihr with its 16th-century half-timbered houses lining the cobble-stoned streets that wind their way up and down the terrain—reminiscent of many a fairy tale picture book. Surrounded by its medieval city wall erected in 1500, Riquewihr is located in the midst of the best Rieslings in the Alsatian wine country so be sure to seek out the winstubs (vin-shtube) or wine cellars offering tastes of the region's finest. At the western gateway, stands Le Dolder, the 15th-century tower which today, houses an informative art and folk museum. Don’t miss the 14th-century Wurtemberg Castle, home to Alsatian Communication Museum, as well as the Tower of Thieves, a 15th-century prison. Beyond Riquewihr’s city walls lie the vineyards offering up many delectable wine-tasting tours. Take your time strolling along through Riquewihr and relish its enchanting Alsatian flavors.

Kaysersberg

Just one of so many charming half-timbered cottages throughout the village of Kaysersberg. All photography ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Located a few miles south of Riquewihr is Kaysersberg—a well-preserved medieval village that dates back to 1227. Resting at the foothills of the Vosges, Kaysersberg owes its existence to the Kaysersberg Chateau—a fortified castle upon its craggy summit built in the 1220s for Albin Woelflin, an imperial bailiff for Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. Kayserberg Chateau guarded the only entrance to the mountains and the region of Lorraine that lies to the west. Together with the Vosges, the two provide a most dramatic backdrop to the architectural richness of this town. Renowned for its Albert Schweitzer Museum dedicated to the Nobel Peace Prize winner for his “Reverence of Life” in 1952, Kaysersberg is also famous among viticulturists for its Pinot Gris wines. Some of the best times to visit are during September for the grape harvest and during the holidays for its vibrant Christmas markets.

Colmar

The Schwendi Fountain in the town square in Colmar was created by sculptor Frédérick Bartholdi who also designed the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor. All photography ©Brian Jannsen Photography. Unauthorized use is prohibited.

Our tour of Alsace concludes with the wine capital of the entire Alsatian plain, Colmar whose history dates back to the 9th century. This last stop offers yet one more village with picturesque settings and Kodak moments around every corner—a photographer’s dream come true. Half-timbered houses are the norm and many ornately polished and in splendid condition. Weaving their way through Colmar, the canals of the River Lauch transform the city centre into a little Venice or “Petite Venise” as its known locally. Colmar is also birthplace to the sculptor Frédérick Bartholdi who designed the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor and the Schwendi Fountain in the image above. Seek out the Cathedral Saint-Martin as well as the Unterlinden Museum to see the renowned “Isenheim Altarpiece” by German artist Matthias Grünewald who completed this masterpiece in the early 1500s. Whether you have kids or not, don’t miss the village’s Museum of Toys brimming with vintage collectibles from all over the world. On display are brilliantly created model trains and villages, miniature amusement park rides, and more! It’s fun and fascinating for kids of all ages!

These are but four of the many villages spread throughout Alsace, France, from Strasbourg to Mulhouse so for now, this concludes our tour but I promise that this is the first of many more features to come including the Christmas markets—my next article.

Brian Jannsen Photography

As I mentioned above, these photos were taken during one of the many photo tours hosted by Brian Jannsen, a renowned photographer whose award-winning work has been published in books, calendars and magazines including National Geographic, Lonely Planet and Frommers. No surprise there, right? Brian facilitates photo tours throughout Europe and the U.S. all year long. These are not photography workshops per se, but photography tours through various regions and picturesque settings replete with perfect light, providing mother nature cooperates, so that you too, can come home with masterpieces like these. If you want to find out more about past and upcoming tours in 2012, follow the links below to enchanting place around the world.

Photo Essays
Photography Tours and Workshops: a complete list of all the tours planned for 2012 including visits through Alsace, Provence, Tuscany and more.

Want to see more of Alsace? Check out this two-minute video capturing the region’s highlights.

Getting to Alsace, France:

By air: There are two international airports in Alsace: Strasbourg in the north and Bâle-Mulhouse in the south. Plus, Frankfurt and Zurich are close by as well. Plan your travels with Air France, best deals here! (Affiliate Link)

By train: It’s only 2 ½ hours by train from Paris to Strasbourg. Check out TGV via RailEurope. (Affiliate Link)

By car: A35 will take you through the entire Alsace Region from Strasbourg to Mulhouse, approximately 118 km or 73 miles. However, I suggest you take alternate routes D468 / D2 or D1083 / D468 so you can meander through the countryside and see all this wonderfully idyllic region of France has to offer.

Additional reading:

ArtSmart Roundtable: Paris’ Haunted Père Lachaise Cemetery

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:59:00 +0000

Welcome to Paris' Pere Lachaise Cemetary. Dare to walk along Errazu Way at night? THIS PHOTO ONLY: Peter Poradisch via Wikimedia.org.

Welcome to ArtSmart Roundtable—a monthly series I participate in with a group of colleagues who are passionate about discovering art while exploring fascinating destinations. Combining art and travel is our mission as we set to chronicle our adventures and share them with you in hopes of teaching something new as well. October’s topic is Outdoor Sculpture and since we’re publishing on Halloween, I thought I would combine the two themes for a little paranormal fun and art education, hence my choice of the Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris for its haunting mausoleums, tombs and headstones not to mention legends of otherworldly visits. Boo!

Dare to walk along the streets of the City of the Dead? Topping many lists of the world’s most haunted places, Père Lachaise Cemetery is Paris’ largest cemetery in the city proper. Located in the 20th arrondissement, Père Lachaise, named after Père Francois de la Chaise, confessor to Louis XIV, opened in 1802 and features 110 acres of some of the most exquisite and macabre sculptures in the world. Believed to be haunted, this is one place I would not venture out in the middle of a dark and gloomy night, especially on Halloween.

Reputed to walk among the living are: Adolphe Thiers, prime minister under King Louis-Philippe in the 19th century, who tugs on visitors’ clothes should they tread too close to his resting place. Jim Morrison of Doors fame is often seen roaming near his grave as well. Countless others see spectral lights, translucent figures and other disembodied spirits roaming throughout the cemetery and many have had close encounters too frightful to imagine.

The final resting place for many artists, actors, scientists, politicians, and others, Père Lachaise is a must-see stop when visiting the city of light. Those among the interred include Sidonie-Gabrielle Collette, Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Gertrude Stein, Edith Piaf, Marcel Marceau, Chopin and countless others who comprise a total population in excess of 300,000 in this “city of the dead.”

While this article started out as a lighthearted approach to Halloween and the spooky sculptures within Père Lachaise, I found my heart aching by the time I was finished with it because of the memorials to the prisoners of the WWII concentration camps. While their monuments are among the most macabre, their stories and their lives should be remembered and honored forever, and never taken half-heartedly!

Highlights on this haunted tour of Père Lachaise in Paris include:

Buchenwald-Dora Memorial by Louis Bancel. THIS PHOTO ONLY: JHvW via Wikimedia.org.

Inaugurated in 1964, the Buchenwald-Dora Memorial honors victims of World War II and was designed by Louis Bancel, a mid-20th-century sculptor who was commissioned by the Association des Désportés de Buckwnwald-Dora to create this bronze macabre statue to honor the German Nazi Camp prisoners in 1957.

Tomb of Georges Rodenbach sculpted by Charlott Dubray. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Wp82 via Wikimedia.org.

Another fascinating and haunting funerary sculpture by French sculptor Charlott Dubray belongs to Georges Rodenbach, a 19th-century Belgian writer and poet most famous today for his novel entitled “Burges la Morte.” Obsessed with death evident in much of his work, he is pictured here rising from his earthly tomb with a rose in his hand.

Mauthausen Memorial. THIS PHOTO ONLY: JHvW via Wikimedia.org.

The Mauthausen Memorial, among the most poignant and moving in my essay, honors French victims of the Austrian concentration camp who were sentenced to the labor camp to work to utter exhaustion and death. Inspired by the plight of those prisoners, the sculptor depicts one prisoner carrying a granite block up 186 steps known as the “Stairs of Death,” a suffering task endured by more than 100,000 prisoners.

Tomb of Oscar Wilde designed by Sir Jacob Epstein. THIS PHOTO ONLY: JHvW via Wikimedia.org.

The Tomb of Oscar Wilde, the Irish writer and poet who penned “The Picture of Dorian Gray” in 1890, shows a half-demon, half-angel figure sculpted by Sir Jacob Epstein, an American-born British sculptor. The monument spawned quite a controversy for its exposed genitalia and while Parisian authorities succeeded in concealing it for awhile, it was later removed during WWII.

Tomb of Painter Theodore Gericault by sculptor Antoine Etex. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Rama via Wikimedia.org.

Jean-Louis André Géricault’s final resting place was created by 19th-century painter, sculptor and architect Antoine Etex who actually created this and the following sculpture. Géricault’s tomb features a bronze statue of the painter and a relief of his highly controversial painting of the “Raft of the Medusa.”

Tomb of the Family Raspail by Antoine Etex. THIS PHOTO ONLY: JHvW via Wikimedia.org.

Once again we see the work of Antoine Etex on this tomb for the Family Raspail where he sculpted Madame Rapali’s "Farewell to the Jailed Revolutionary," a ghost whose arm stretches upward from his shroud to the prison-barred window.

This is only a small sampling of the tens of thousands of monuments awaiting your visit at the Père Lachaise in Paris. Below is a quick video tour through other highlights of the Père Lachaise Cemetary in Paris.

October ArtSmart Roundtable Features:

New to the Roundtable this month, Leslie from Career Girl Travels shares "The Not-So-Hidden Marble Tetrarchs in the Piazza San Marco, Venice"
Outdoor Sculpture in Florence by Jenna at This My Happiness
The Muiredach Cross as Public Art in Medieval Ireland by Erin at A Sense of Place
Jaume Plenas Outdoor Sculpture by Kelly at Travellious
Has Public Sculpture Lost Its Edge? by Ashley at No Onions Extra Pickles

For information on tours, visit Viator Père Lachaise Gravestone Walking Tour

Half-day Guided Tour to the French Village of Chartres

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 16:52:00 +0000

Welcome to the village of Chartres. This shot is of the North Tower of the Chartres Cathedral. All photos property of EuroTravelogue™ unless specifically noted. Please do not use without permission.

While my anticipation to visit Paris was running at its highest, it’s ironic that once we arrived via our overnight train adventure, we left the city just as quickly on a half-day guided tour to the French-provincial village of Chartres. As it turned out, this jaunt to the French countryside turned out to be one of the highlights of my vacation in France. After touring in Italy and reveling in every encounter with Renaissance art and architecture, I couldn’t wait to explore my first French Gothic cathedral—Notre Dame de Chartres. Won’t you join me on this guided tour?

Notre Dame de Chartres—Our Lady of Chartres

Located about 90 kilometers or 60 miles southwest of Paris, the village of Chartres is steeped in history and its main attraction—Notre Dame de Chartres, the village’s medieval cathedral dominating its skyline and seen from just about every vantage point throughout the town. Even more impressive is your first glimpse of the cathedral upon approach from the major roadways. Suddenly, this colossal edifice looms on the horizon in stark contrast to the blue skies, and foreshadowing all that surrounds her. Truly, it is a spectacular sight filling you with anticipation and excitement as the village draws near. Whether you’re religious or not, historians, scholars and journalists alike, not to mention the tourists, will rejoice in their visit to this unforgettable cathedral.

Shops of every kind line the quaint streets of the provincial village of Chartres.

Renowned mostly for its distinctive bell towers, its architectural splendor and its radiant stained-glass windows, Notre Dame de Chartres or Our Lady of Chartres is actually the fourth cathedral to stand on this site and is one of Europe’s most revered because of its state of preservation since consecration in 1260. Moreover, artifacts from its predecessors, dating back to the 4th century, remain today due to the various reconstruction periods when newer cathedrals were rebuilt on top of earlier ones, thus preserving forever, subterranean troves of ancient treasures and crypts. It’s no wonder UNESCO added this magnificent edifice to its list of World Heritage Sites in 1979.

The Holy Relic of Chartres-fragment from the Veil of the Holy Virgin.

One of the cathedral’s defining moments occurred during the third reconstruction period in the 9th century when Charles-le-Chauve (Charles the Bald) presented Biship Gislebert with a relic of the Holy Virgin’s veil, thus solidifying this site as a place of religious pilgrimage for Europe of the day, and for the rest of us today! Actually, Chartres owes its existence to the survival of this relic after the fire in 1194 destroyed most of cathedral save the facade, towers and crypts. Whether it was gold, building materials or the power of prayer, Christians from all walks of life set out to bring what they could to restore the Holy Virgin’s cathedral for they believed the survival of the relic was a sign from Holy Mary. You can see the veil enclosed in its glass case in the Mary Chapel located in the left apse behind the high altar.

Behold the splendor of Chartres' stained-glass windows! Magnificent tapestries of colorful light recount numerous stories from the Bible.

Among its many highlights, the cathedral’s 12th- and 13th-century stained-glass windows certainly impress as they bathe the cavernous interior is a most glorious light. Recounting stories from both the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, the windows are exquisite down to the finest detail and you could spend hours reading every panel from left to right beginning at the bottom. Most notable are the three Rose windows over the portals: West Rose depicts the “Last Judgment;” the South Rose tells of the second coming of the Lord; and the North Rose glorifies the Virgin Mary in the middle with the Christ Child on her knee, surrounded by the Kings of Judah and the Prophets. In addition, don’t miss the brilliant 12th-century Blue Virgin window located on the southern facade.

The North Rose Window shows the Virgin Mary with Christ in the center, the five lancets below show Melchizedect and Nebuchadnezzar, David and Saul, St. Anne holding Mary, Salomon and Jeroboam and finally Aaron and Pharoah.

Close-up view of the "Parable of the Good Samaritan."

Head to the center of the nave and look for the 964-foot-long or 300-meter-long labyrinth set in black stone retracing the path from humanity to God. Laid in 1205, the labyrinth has attracted pilgrims throughout history who come to retrace its path to eternal glory. This labyrinth is actually featured in one of my favorite books by Kate Mosse entitled "The Labyrinth" (affiliate link) which takes place in Chartres and surrounding areas of France. A must-read fascinating story that takes place in two centuries simultaneously.

Chartres Labyrinth. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Daderot via Wikimedia.com.

Moving toward the altar, don’t miss the exquisite sculptural detail of the Choir by Boudin in 1612 with scenes of Christ’s Baptism, the Lord’s Temptation, birth of Christ, among many others and too numerous to list here. For an awesome 360-virtual tour visit 360cities.net.

The Chartres Choir.

Close-up detail of the Choir screen showing scene from the Passion.

Even more impressive than its interior, is the Chartres cathedral’s exterior, the blending of architectural elements due to the many reconstruction periods. This is most evident in the two soaring albeit disparate bell towers flanking the facade—the result of the cathedral’s battle to survive its plagued history of destruction and rebuilding. The tower on the left was begun in 1134 but not crowned with its spire until the 16th century. The southern tower on the right was begun in 1145 but its Romanesque design remains as testament to an earlier time.

Two distinctive bell towers soar above the village of Chartres.

Also, be sure to see the western, northern and southern portals and the exquisite sculptures depicting a diverse range of subject matter from pagan symbols of the zodiac to scenes from the Old and New Testaments. As you make your way around each of the portals, I strongly suggest you have a book or a tour guide who will explain the historical significance of what you’re seeing. I have captured a few shots of the stunning detail of these fascinating and magnificent sculptures!

Full view of the Royal Portal on the western facade from Rose window at top to the magnificently ornate doorways.

Chartres Royal Portal Entrance - Western Facade.

Exterior Royal Portal Tympanum showing Christ surrounded by symbols of four evangelists and 12 Apostles below.

Royal Portal close-up view of the right-pillar detail.

Close-up view of zodiac sculpture found on Royal Portal doorway.

Certainly, you could spend an entire day scrutinizing and examining all of the architectural detail of the Chartres Cathedral and I suggest you do but for us, time was short and we wanted to see some of this picturesque village in the little time remaining. As we wandered throughout its quaint streets lined with French architecture and storybook half-timbered houses, you couldn’t help but feel the pages of a fairy tale coming to life. Also of course, we had to sample some of the delicacies and so we set out to visit the boulangerie and the fromagerie for a baguette stuffed with cheese, and indulged in this tasty treat before we boarded our bus back to Paris. Now you’re probably wondering about the proverbial wine with my baguette? Unfortunately, we ran out of time.

Quaint and charming vine-covered house, one of many fairy tale images brought to life in Chartres.

One of many picturesque scenes throughout the village. This is a shot of the River Eure in Chartres. THIS PHOTO ONLY: Tango7174 via Wikimedia.

With so much to discover in Chartres, I urge you to tour this magnificent cathedral and town with a guide to make the most of your visit. Be sure to include Chartres on your next holiday in France.

Getting there:

By Train: Trains run quite often from Gare Montparnasse and the journey takes little more than an hour. It’s a great way to see the French countryside. Visit Rail Europe (affiliate link) for more information.
By Car: Take the A10 to the A11 approximately 93 kilometers or 57 miles. Or for a more scenic route, take the RN10 or N10 approximately 64 miles.
Group Tours: Available at many of the local tourist offices throughout Paris. Or, check out City-Discovery.com for more information about their half-day tour to Chartres.

Additional Reading

Chartres Tourism
Sainte Chapelle: Stained-glass Tapestries of Majesty
Sacred Destinations: Magnificent overview of practically every detail about Chartres
Magnificent Chateaux of the Loire Valley: Day Tour from Paris
Notre Dame de Paris: Our Lady of Paris
Postcards From Paris: Pictorial Souvenir of the City of Light

Behold—Michelangelo’s ‘David’ at the Accademia Museum in Florence, Italy

noreply@blogger.com (Jeff Titelius) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 22:41:00 +0000

Michelangelo's "David" inside the Accademia Gallery in Florence, Italy. All content and photography property of EuroTravelogue™.com unless otherwise noted. Please do not use without permission. This Photo Only: Wikimedia.com David Gaya.

Michelangelo’s "David"—a colossal sculpture of perfect beauty and proportion awaits visitors at the Accademia Gallery in Florence, Italy. At the end of a long hallway flanked by Michelangelo’s “non-finito,” (unfinished sculptures), also known as the “Prisoners,” "David’s" graceful physique rises boldly to a total height of 17 feet above his pedestal and beckons onlookers to behold his mighty size and sheer magnificence. It’s simply breathtaking and humbling as you stand in awe to gaze upon this incomparable and exquisite achievement in marble sculpture. From the moment I first studied the "David" back in college, I immediately fell under his spell and knew I had to see it one day for myself. My visit or any visit to Florence for that matter would not be complete without seeing Michelangelo’s "David" at the Accademia Gallery.

Close-up detail of replica of "David" outside Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.

Located in the Tribunal room of the Accademia—a purpose-built room designed to house the statue, which up until 1873 stood in the Piazza della Signoria outside the Palazzo Vecchio, Michelangelo’s "David" rises boldly above the throngs of tourists who are like bees to honey around the pedestal’s base. Forever frozen in time, Michelangelo captured the very moment when David first eyes his fearsome foe and through his chiseled musculature with protruding veins in arms and legs, you understand immediately the mounting tension coursing throughout his body as he reaches back with his slingshot and prepares to slay the mighty Goliath. There will never be another sculpture, before or after the "David," that will challenge Michelangelo’s supremacy.

A replica of Michelangelo's "David" standing outside Palazzo Vecchio.

After completing his famous "Pieta" in Rome in 1499 at the age of 24, Michelangelo completed the "David" in 1504 at the ripe old age of 29 and on September 8th of that same year, presented the statue to the city of Florence. Starting out as an 18-foot block of marble cast aside by another sculptor who thought the damaged was beyond repair, Michelangelo saw an opportunity to free his "David" from his prison of marble. Originally, the statue was intended to be one of twelve Old Testament sculptures to adorn the top Duomo or Santa Maria del Fiore, however its final resting place would be outside the Palazzo Vecchio as decided by a committee that included renowned figures such as Leonardo Da Vinci and Sandro Botticelli. Due to weathering and erosion, the city of Florence moved the "David" to the Accademia Gallery and in 1910, installed a life-size replica outside the Palazzo where the original "David" stood for more than 300 years.

The statue of "David" inside the Accademia Gallery is actually one of three "Davids" that reside in Florence. There is the replica in the Piazza della Signoria where the original once stood as mentioned above as well as another high atop the hills in Oltrarno in the Piazzale Michelangelo seen below.

Another replica of Michelangelo's "David" can be found in the hills overlooking Florence at the Piazzale Michelangelo. This photo only: Wikimedia.com Mbdortmund.

On your approach to the "David," you pass through a hallway that houses the "unfinished" sculptures that Michelangelo completed in the latter part of his life. Paling in comparison, nonetheless not be overlooked, these "Prisoners" or "Slaves" or "non-finito" sculptures were originally intended for the tomb of Pope Julius II. However, some scholars believe that Michelangelo intended to leave them unfinished and today, it's debated to the point of exhaustion. In either case, you really get a sense of the extraordinary amount of work that goes into sculpting. If you look closely, you can discern the marks left by many a sculpting tool that eventually freed these prisoners from their tombs of marble as Michelangelo often liked to put it. After Michelangelo's death, the statues were given to Cosimo I who placed them in the Boboli Gardens at the Pitti Palace where they stood until 1909.

Michelangelo's 'Awakening Slave' or 'Prisoner.' This photo only: Wikimedia.com Shakko.

As you tour the rest of the Accademia, you'll find a fascinating collection of paintings dating back to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance and the early 17th century; plus an interesting collection of musical instruments.

Truly one of the most unforgettable moments of my first visit to Florence was to the see the incomparable "David" who personifies the courage and conviction that lives in all of us. He stands here today in all of his magnificence because of a carefully guided chisel in the hand of a talented Florentine artist named Michelangelo who freed his "David" from his prison of stone. One of the most renowned sculptures of all time, the "David" should be on your list of sights to see so be sure to include a visit to the Accademia Gallery in your travel plans to Florence, Italy.

Check out video tour through the Florence Accademia Gallery below.

Tips before you go:

Pre-purchase your tickets (reservations) in advance despite the nominal “reservation” fee to avoid the extremely long queue that snakes around the Accademia’s surrounding streets. Check out Florence Tickets.com for more information.
If it’s your first time, I suggest you book a guided tour instead. It’s well worth the extra expense and all charges are included plus you are guided by a qualified art historian through the entire museum. Check out Viator.com for more starters.
If you’re staying in Florence and want to forego the guided tour, call ahead to your hotel and request they book the reservation for you. You’ll probably avoid all charges save the actual price of admission. The only downfall to this is that you probably won’t be able to select a preferred time to visit.
Don’t bother to bring your cameras because all photos and videos are now forbidden inside the Accademia Gallery.

Parting shot of the "David" outside Palazzo Vecchio.

EuroTravelogue™

Strolling Through the Village of Edam in The Netherlands

History

Edam, The Netherlands Today

Hotel De Fortuna

The Edam Museum

The Carillon and Church of Our Dear Lady

Edam Town Hall

The Cheese Weigh House

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Compare and Contrast

Other ArtSmart Roundtable Features of the Month:

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Kinderdijk—A History

The Life of a Miller

Kinderdijk Canal Tour

Kinderdijk Windmill Museum

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More ways to experience Kinderdijk:

Did You Know?

More about my Viking River Cruise:

Seizing the Moments of my Journey with Viking River Cruises

“The journey not the arrival matters.” – T. S. Eliot

Enchantment in the Dutch Countryside

Windmills, Windmills, Windmills

A Cheesy Moment

A Brief Encounter With A Dutch Bridge

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Guided Canal Boat Tour Through the Historic City of Amsterdam

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Amsterdam’s Canals

Architecture—a lesson in Amsterdam's fabled gabled architecture

Merchant’s Houses

Ann Frank Huis

Westerkerk

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Additional Reading:

Guided Tour Through Viking River Cruise's Longship Viking Odin

Did you know:

Bon Voyage for now.

Additional Reading:

Celebrating the Launch of Viking River Cruise Longships in the Netherlands

The Viking Odin

Inaugural Itinerary

Amsterdam

Christening Ceremony

Fantastic Voyage

Overall

Bon Voyage!

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Postcards from the Loire Valley in France

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Villages of Vaucluse—Popes and monks.

Bouches-du-Rhône—bustling markets, lavender and art!

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Background on the Scuola Grande di San Rocco building

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