Fun Facts of Swedish Waffles and their Smell Around Town

Waffles are eaten year-round in Sweden, but they are particularly popular on March 25 when the Swedish celebrate Våffeldagen (Waffle Day). Swedish waffles are flatter than the more well-known Belgian waffles and are usually made in a special heart-shaped waffle maker. According to the Christian gospels, the 25th of March is the day when the archangel Gabriel came down to earth and told Mary that she would give birth to God's son. Over time, this tradition has become more about the waffles than about the virgin birth. 

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Beautiful Art in Budapest

Art comes in all forms in Budapest:  small and big institutions, state-run and grassroots projects. You will definitely appreciate art in more ways than one, whether you are a big fan of abstract or let's say, conceptual art, or you just need to soothe your eyes after a long day, to rest your eyes at something other than your daily readings or just need inspiration

1. Hungarian National Gallery
2. Printa Café
3. Museum of Fine Arts
4. Trafó - House of Contemporary Arts
5. Művész ArtMozi
6. Brody Studios
7. Ludwig Múzeum
8. Műcsarnok
9. Gelarto Rosa
10. Müpa Budapest
11. Telep Art Bar and Bistro
12. Puskin ArtMozi
13. Cirko-Gejzír Filmszínház
14. Bohem Art Hotel
15. Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest

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Where To Find The Best Views of The City

Barcelona, as everyone knows, is captivating. It has a rich history, grand architecture, and lovely people. Walking through the streets and alleyways of the different neighborhoods can sometimes make you feel like you've been transported back to a period of imperialism and decadence. If you want to take a step back and check out the sights, several excellent viewpoints in Barcelona will give you a clear view and perspective of the city. Discover these fantastic places for yourself, and don't forget to take snaps.

●      Port Vell

●      Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya

●      Del Turó de la Rovira

●      Tibidabo

●      Barceló Raval

●      43 The Spa

●      Telefèric del Port

●      Las Arenas rooftop

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The Meaning of the Red Houses in Sweden

The little red houses around Stockholm are painted with a special paint called Falu red, or Falun red, which was first created and used in Falun copper mines in Dalarna County. It is well known for its use on wooden cottages and barns. This paint is now used out of tradition and due to its effectiveness in preserving wood. The earliest signs of the use of Falu red are the 16th century, but during the 17th century the paint started to fill an additional purpose. The copper color was supposed to imitate the brick buildings, which were more common in the south of Sweden as well as Stockholm and Gothenburg. 

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Coffee Drinks of Budapest

Budapest is one of Europe’s most breathtaking cities and brimming with coffee culture. Here is a list of cafes that promises not to disappoint.

●  Espresso Embassy is an eccentric coffee shop with modern industrial design and is strongly

      focused on tasty and aromatic coffee.

● Coffee Shop 64 has become a crowd favorite of coffeeholics in Budapest. A wide array quality coffees (all ecologically certified) are offered, perfectly paired by one of their freshly-made croissants.

● Azték Choxolat is famous for its homemade bonbons, specialty chocolates and different kinds of hot chocolate drinks. Also, the café serves excellent coffee providing an option between Robusta and Arabica blends.

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Barcelona Water Activities

Would you rather surf than get a tan on the beach? Then you'll be thrilled to know that there are various aquatic activities to try in Barcelona. Whether you're looking to try something out for the first time, or you want to do it like a pro, there are quite a handful of great clubs and schools that can help you out with just what you need in the Catalan capital. Here's a list of water activities you can enjoy in Barcelona:

●      Windsurfing

●      Paddle Boarding

●      Surfing

●      Renting a Boat

●      Renting Jet Skis

●      Parasailing

●      Hoverboarding & Flyboarding

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Stockkholm at Night - Summer and Winter

Gamla stan, the heart of the Old Town, is even more ravishing after dark than during the day. Beautifully lit, its streets are wonderful to explore. Elsewhere in the city, to the north beyond Norrmalm, the district of Vasastan is lively around Tegnergatan and Rorstrandsgatan. In the west, meanwhile, Fridhemsplan and Scheelegatan in Kungsholmen are also a pretty safe bet. Trendy, but never overwhelmingly so, the nightlife in Stockholm is right up there with the very best cities. Indeed, few nightlife experiences can match the splendor of a long summer’s ‘day’ of partying in Stockholm, when the sun only just creeps below the horizon. 

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Things to Do In Budapest

Budapest continues to appeal to any kind of traveler, from backpackers to families.  Enjoy the communist memorabilia and edgy house music within the crumbling walls of the city's infamous ruin bars, immerse in the city's extensive nightlife scene, wonder at the beauty along the river Danube with a bike or river tour, and book in some R&R or get even more jarring partying done, at the city's spectacular spa baths. Experience the nightlife standard spawning several copy-cat bar experiences that have come to define a Budapest night-out. Get trigger happy at Fisherman's Bastion. A refuge with grandiose spa treatments, saunas, and massages. Want to be pampered and preened? Head to Szechenyi Spa baths in the day. 

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Different Types of Food in Barcelona

The region of Catalonia is a region of Spain with a strong culinary reputation both for its traditional staples and "Nueva cocina española."

On the contrary, the traditional food of Barcelona is not complete without some staple ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, and tomato. Barcelona cuisine is distinguished by natural creativity that other regions don't have. For example, raisins and nuts are often mixed into vegetable dishes; the rabbit is mixed with snails; poultry or meat is cooked with fruit.

Since it sits beside the Mediterranean, Barcelona cuisine includes exquisite seafood dishes as well. There is also a hint of neighboring influences from France and Valencia. Barcelona food is one you wouldn't want to miss!

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To The ABBA Museum from Sweden They Came

ABBA The Museum is a permanent exhibition in the brand new Swedish Music Hall of Fame on the island of Djurgården, a brisk walk, or a short bus or tram ride from the city center. The museum sits between Gröna Lund amusement park and the Liljevalchs art venue and is a five-minute walk from Skansen Open-Air Museum and the famous Vasa Museum. ABBA The Museum showcases the band’s stage clothes, artifacts, concert footage and interviews in a contemporary, interactive setting. Once inside the museum, you can sing and dance with holograms of ABBA and don a digital costume projected onto you in a special booth.  

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Best Views in Budapest

Four places to get the best views of Budapest

1. Gellért Hill and the Citadel. The Citadel is situated on the 235 m high Gellért Hill which is a fortress built in 1854. It’s also the perfect place to enjoy a breathtaking view of Budapest.
2. St Stephen’s Basilica. Visitors swarm towards Budapest’s iconic basilica to gape at its impressive exterior and marble-rich interior.
3. 360 Bar. Situated atop one of the tallest buildings on the historic Andrassy Avenue, this rooftop bar is famous for its 360-degree views over Budapest.
4. Elizabeth Lookout Tower. This lookout tower at the top of János Hill is popular with locals. It is located just a little outside of central Budapest,

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Flamenco Dress and its History

The history of the flamenco dress goes back to when Andalusian women accompanied livestock traders to livestock fairs in Seville. Andalusia is a region in southern Spain where flamencos (gypsies) lived. Flamenco is their traditional song and dance, and the costume represents that culture. The dress evolved when the dance became part of mainstream culture in the early 19th century, but the Andalusian influence remained.

The dress is designed to highlight a woman's figure and conceal the flaws. The original dress had a guitar-shaped body with a low neck. The frills are made to augment the way a woman walks, and different accessories, such as scarves and flowers, complimented the flirty style.

Ready to check them out? I'd love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to pick up the phone and call me or send me an email when you're ready to start planning.

Lapland Is A Nice Side Trip

The Swedish Lapland, near the huge and wild Sarek National Park, is crossed by the Royal Trail, which is 400 km long. In winter, the northern part of the trail is especially popular. The highest Swedish mountain environment and the presence of a large number of reindeer, elk and grouse enhance the blank spaces. There are very comfortable lodges on the route, and there are often wide valleys without technical difficulties surrounded by glacial peaks. You will experience a great Nordic adventure beyond the Arctic Circle! 

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Budapest Museums

Because it's the capital city, Budapest offers the best museums and galleries in the whole of Hungary. You can easily spare a few days examining all of the different holdings. Most of the museums, as expected, are home to Hungarian art and history through the ages, but some collections, including the Hungarian Jewish Museum, Terror House, and the Palace of Art either cover more recent historical events or are devoted to contemporary exhibitions and will appeal to curious museum-goers from around the world. Here are a few of the city's must visit and most unique ones, whose galleries and exhibitions are well-worth your while during your visit to the Hungarian capital.

●        Hungarian National Museum

●        Aquincum Museum and ruin garden

●        Bible Museum

●        Castle Museum

●        Chocolate Museum

●        Dreher Beer Museum

●        Lutheran Museum

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Barcelona's Stunning Architecture

Barcelona is speckled with amazing buildings and stunning architecture. Feast your eyes on Gothic mansions, powerfully graceful churches, buildings of state, and Modernist masterpieces throughout the city. Here are our 10 notable Barcelona buildings to get you started.

1. La Sagrada Família

2. Església de Santa Maria del Mar

3.Torre Agbar

4. Palau de la Música Catalana

5. Hospital de la Santa Creu I de Sant Pau

6. Mercat de Santa Caterina

7. La Pedrera

8. Casa Amatller

9. Casa Batlló

10. Pavelló Mies van der Rohe

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Winter in Stockholm Archipelago

Stockholm is stunning throughout the year. However, for anyone visiting from southern locations, Sweden’s capital is a winter wonderland. The city stands on 14 of the roughly 30,000 islands that make up the Stockholm archipelago. In winter, the water that surrounds the city freezes over and snow dusts the rocky hilltops of Södermalm (the south island) like a scene straight from a Christmas card. As well as being picturesque, the city offers a variety of wonderful things to do during winter. It is also the best time of year to get an authentic taste of Stockholm life. 

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Hungarian Culture Fun Facts

Heavily influenced by the different ethnic groups including the Roma people, the rich culture of Hungary is rooted vehemently in folk traditions and has its own distinctive style. All kinds of music, from classical to folk, is a crucial part of everyday life, as is the country's rich literary heritage. The rich heritage of this country is mirrored in its crafts such as ceramics and embroidery, Hungary's distinct, traditional cuisine, strong fruit brandies, dance, and the ever-popular spa treatments. Hungarians are horsemen because of their nomadic past, and the visitors would often get an invitation to go riding from local friends. Hospitality is also a standard part of their culture and don't be surprised if they pry you with personal questions about your life are all part of the getting-to-know-you process. 

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Terrain Information

Barcelona faces the Mediterranean to the southeast. It sits on a plain bordered by the Besós River (to the north), the Llobregat River (to the south), the rocky outcrop of Montjuich, and the Tibidabo Mountains (to the west). Barcelona was heavily secured and did not spread far beyond its medieval confines until the 19th century.

In the 19^th century, urbanization took hold, and suburbs sprang up, and the city grew. The merging of a strong core and a highly developed industrial belt has made Barcelona one of the most crowded cities in the world.

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Top 3 Must See Outdoor Museum in Stockholm is Skansen

At Skansen Open-Air Museum, you will find the history of Sweden shown both in historical buildings and intriguing craft displays. Every part of Sweden is represented at the Skansen museum, from a southern farm on Skåne to the Sami Camp in northern Sweden. Most buildings and farmsteads at the Skansen museum are from the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. Skansen is also home to 75 different species of animals, including wild animals such as wolves, lynx, elk, and brown bears, and a number of breeds of domestic animals. 

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Traveling Around Budapest

Getting around Budapest

●        A lot of people in Budapest using mass transit ride the bus daily. There are more or less 200 routes, and express buses with red number signs serve the busiest routes in the city.

●        Taking the Metro is the fastest way to get around Budapest, although underground journeys don't offer much in the form of sightseeing.

●        Danube River Ferry Service – The route provides a lovely commute for locals as well as a great way to get around and see the city from the Danube for visitors.

●        Budapest Taxis can be quick and affordable in the city, especially late at night when there are limited options for public transportation.

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Antoni Gaudi - Architect

Antoni Gaudi could pass as a patron saint of Barcelona, which is likely part of the reason why he is being considered for sainthood. While a lot of people are familiar with his work using colorful mosaics, natural elements, and skeleton balconies, the man behind the work remained somewhat mysterious. Here are some interesting facts about the Gaudi that you probably didn’t know.

 ●      He struggled with poor health, and as a result, he adhered to a strict vegetarian diet.

●      He was not afraid to make his feelings known and worked hard to fight for Catalonia in the political arena.

●      His fantastic career had humble beginnings. He started out designing lampposts.

●      He never had any children, and he was a bachelor throughout his life.

●      Park Guell was initially supposed to be an English-style residential estate until Gaudi gets a hold of the project.

●      He was a student at the Barcelona Architectural School and not a very good one at all.

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Northern Lights from Abisko National Park, Sweden

One mention of the wonder of nature that is the Northern Lights and the mind is immediately transported to the frozen wilderness of the north and destinations such as the village of Abisko, one of the premier destinations to view the Northern Lights in Sweden. While you are in the Abisko National Park or the surrounding Kiruna Mountains, you have a very high likelihood of seeing the Northern Lights dance in green over your head — whether in the form of curtains, spirals, arcs or coronas. 

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Historical Places in Budapest

Budapest has an undeniably astounding mix of exceptional buildings, beautiful sights to see, including two UNESCO World Heritage sites (Andrassy Avenue and the Danube with the Buda Castle and the Parliament). There are also pampering-healing baths in Budapest, the full range of museums in Budapest, some churches in Budapest, like the big Catholic Basilica, or the elaborate Jewish Synagogue, and of course the markets in Budapest – brimming with flavors and colors. Besides baths, museums, churches, and markets, however, there are some famous and popular tourists attractions in Budapest that are somewhat special architecturally or historically. Just to mention but a few of the buildings among the top tourist attractions:

●        Buda Castle

●        Hungarian National Museum

●        Basilica of St Stephen

●        Fisherman’s Bastion

●        Vajdahunyad Castle, Budapest

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Historical Fact About the City of Barcelona

Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain, and it is the capital of the province of Catalonia. The Catalans are incredibly proud of their independence and profess their own identity and language with enthusiasm, and Barcelona is their gem. Here are some interesting facts you will want to know about Barcelona before you get there.

·         Barcelona is the only city to receive a Royal Gold Medal. This medal is awarded to a group or individual's contribution to international architecture. The architecture is something of which Barcelona is exceptionally proud.

·         Las Ramblas is located in the heart of Barcelona in the Gothic Quarter. It is full of great shops, restaurants, and tourist spots. It is a must-do while in Barcelona.

·         The FC Barcelona Museum is the most popular and most visited museum in all of Barcelona.

·         One of the most famous structures in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia Basilica, is still under construction and has been for more than 125 years.

·         Barcelona is known for having great beaches, but they are all artificial. They were created in preparation for the 1992 Summer Olympics.

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Moose Fun Facts

The summer population of moose in Sweden is estimated to be 300,000 to 400,000. Around 100,000 are shot in the annual hunt during autumn, and 100,000 calves are born each spring. Moose can be found all over Sweden, except on the island of Gotland. Sweden has the densest population of moose in the world. Although hundreds of thousands of moose inhabit Sweden, it can still be difficult to see a moose in the wild. Some of the most densely populated areas with moose in Sweden are Bergslagen and central Sweden. 

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Hungarian Parliament Building Fun Facts

Hungarian Parliament Fun Facts

1. It is 268 m long, 118 m high, while its dome is at an imposing height of 96 m.
2. The total length of the stairs in the building reaches roughly 20 km.
3. It has 365 towers, representing every day of the year.
4. The Parliament in London inspired its design.
5. The entrance of the building is on the side of the square. Tourists may also come and visit, but they are allowed to do so only with a guide.
6. Parliament’s Congress Hall houses the painting of the most famous Hungarian painter of his time, Mihály Munkácsy.
7. There are a total of 242 sculptures on the interior and exterior walls of the Parliament.
8. The Hungarian Parliament Building is actually built using very soft limestone, which is easily destroyed.

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Arena Fun Facts

Fun Facts about Arenas de Barcelona

It's the most historic shopping mall in the city. It was not originally built as a shopping area, it was intended to be a bullring, and it became one of the most famous bullrings in Spain. The last bullfight took place in 1977, and then eventually it was left abandoned until the early 1990s. It’s seen decades of glory and has been subjected to various uses such as headquarters for the Republican Army during the Spanish Civil War, as well as other sports events.

After many years, the London based firm of Richard Rogers + Partners was chosen to renovate it into a shopping and entertainment center. This renovation brought La Arena back to prominence in Barcelona in a whole new way. The renovation maintained the history and brought it into the present.

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A Popular Dish In Sweden Is Crayfish

The red crayfish is a traditional red shellfish found in the lakes and rivers that is fished during the night and is rare and expensive these days. The centerpiece of a Swedish meal during a gathering is a large tray full of shellfish, cooked in saltwater and scented with anise. This whole feast is complemented by rye bread and seasoned cheese with cumin. Red crayfish are very popular in the markets and fish shops throughout the country during the late summer. 

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Christmas in Budapest

Pursue a great holiday season experience in Budapest. It's one of Europe's most spectacular cities. Explore its famous Christmas markets, lots of sights to see, relaxing thermal baths (yes, even in the winter!), distinct ruin bars and much, much more — spending Christmas in Budapest will definitely stick to your top Holiday memory list! In Vorosmarty Square in the downtown area, you can find the most popular market of Budapest. Brimming with dazzling lights, colors, delightful smells, and countless shopping opportunities. Some 10 minutes away, you will find another spectacular market situated in St. Stephen's Square. You have to walk through the Advent gates to enter this market, also known as the Christmas or Advent Fair. Are you an adventurer? Make your way across the ice rink found in the center of the market. The rink is free for children up to 14-years-old. 

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Fun Facts About Soccer Football in Barcelona

One of the great things to do while in Barcelona is to catch a football game and see FC Barcelona. Here is a list of some things you may want to know before you go and see them play.

·    *   They invented their style of play

·    *   The club is owned by its club members

·    *   There is a long history of affiliation with the Catalan nationalist movement

·    *   The club was founded by a Swiss man, Hans Max Gamper-Haessig (aka Joan Gamper)

·    *   Local supporters rarely attend the home games

·    *   This club has the most Ballon d’Or winners worldwide

·    *   Franco made the club change their name and official language

·    *   Their supporters are nicknamed ‘the arses’

Any football fan will want to catch a game and say that they have seen them play. 

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Changing of the Guards

The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to Stockholm, Sweden. This free 40-minute event in front of the King of Sweden's residence takes place every day of the year. The guards are responsible for safeguarding the royal palace and are also part of the defense of Stockholm. They are an important part of the security force for the capital's residents. The royal guard participates in royal ceremonial occasions, official state visits, the official opening of the Swedish Parliament and other national events. I’d love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

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The Changing of the Guard ceremony is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to Stockholm, Sweden. This free 40-minute event in front of the King of Sweden's residence takes place every day of the year. The guards are responsible for safeguarding the royal palace and are also part of the defense of Stockholm. They are an important part of the security force for the capital's residents. The royal guard participates in royal ceremonial occasions, official state visits, the official opening of the Swedish Parliament and other national events. 

I’d love to help you plan your trip, so be sure to call or email me when you’re ready to start planning.

Buying Souvenirs in Budapest

Best Souvenirs to buy in Budapest

1. Hungarian paprika. Paprika is the best souvenir bet for food lovers. It’s easy to find and inexpensive plus it’s Hungary’s national spice and used just about everywhere in Hungarian cuisine.

2. Hungarian wine. It’s easy to find quality wines at wine shops and liquor stores in Budapest. Also, Hungary has 22 distinct wine regions and offers the full range,  including reds, whites, roses, and sparkling wines.

3. Palinka. It is the generic name for a fiery-strong fruit brandy and also a universal specialty throughout Hungary,

4. Handmade embroidery. Due to a vibrant cultural heritage, Hungarians are incredibly proud of their needlework

5. Hand-painted porcelain. If you are into porcelain, it will be a known fact for you that Hungary produces one of the world’s most sought-after ceramics.

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UNESCO Heritage Site

La Sagrada Familia is a must-see Roman Catholic Basilica located in Barcelona, Spain. The architect behind this breathtaking gem is none other than Antoni Gaudí. Gaudi has famous masterpieces spread throughout Barcelona, but nothing is quite like La Sagrada Familia. It is considered to be one of Gaudi's most significant accomplishments, and this is likely the reason he is buried there.

Construction began in 1882, and the basilica remains unfinished to this day. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984 because of its artistic representations and unique architecture. When it is finally completed, there will be 18 towers in total: one for each of the apostles, four for each of the evangelists, one for the Virgin Mary, and one for Jesus Christ.

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