The Dalahorse and it's History in Sweden

The Dala Horse (Dalahast) has become an iconic symbol of Sweden. These traditional Dala Horses are lovingly handmade in Sweden using traditional techniques from craftsmen. Much work is involved in creating the Dala Horse, from the feeling of the wood for it to drying it for three to four weeks after the initial carving, which prevents it from splitting once painted. The design is drawn onto the wood & sawed by machine. Each horse is also signed by the craftsman to show its authenticity. No two Dala Horses are the same. 

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The Sunset Views in Budapest

The Best Sunset views in Budapest

●   From the Riverside: You have an option to look for a comfortable bench to sit on, or you may also decide to take a stroll onto one of several bridges that span the magnificent Danube.

●     Széchenyi Thermals: Why don’t you relax in the hot spring waters while watching the sunset?

●     Margaret Island (Margit-Sziget): Savor the flower gardens or the singing fountain as the sun sets.

●    Fisherman's Bastion: Relax and sip a glass of wine in this romantic spot where a view of the beautiful sunset is an eyecatcher. On Castle Hill, it overlooks the city on one side and St. Matthias Church.

●    Academy of Sciences Park: Marvel at the beautiful architecture,  the river view, and a beautiful sunset on Roosevelt tér while you sit at one of the park benches across the street.

●     The Sculptural Grounds at Buda Castle: Here you can spot the great statue called the Matthias Fountain.

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4. Fun Facts About Sagrada Familia Cathedral

Back in 1999, artist Joan Vila-Grau was commissioned to create the stained glass panes for the large group of windows on the western façade of the Sagrada Familia, known as the Resurrection Windows. He studied the temple as a whole and also the concept and function of stained glass windows in the works of Antoni Gaudí before beginning the process.

Joan Vila-Grau aimed to develop a genuinely reminiscent balance of color and light to create an atmosphere that surrounds the entire temple. His work is infused with his signature style but at the same time, fulfills Gaudi's original vision: "The Sagrada Familia will be bright. It will be the temple of harmonious light."

The Sagrada Familia is an iconic structure in Barcelona. It is something that I will make sure to fit into your itinerary. 

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Lots of Amazing Swedish Pastries

Swedish cinnamon buns, or Kanelbulle, are a part of the delicious afternoon fika, or coffee break, tradition. Along with Denmark, Sweden is claimed as the country of its presumed origin, even though you can find it almost everywhere. This is one of the most famous buns in Sweden. So famous that there’s an event on October 4 known as Kanelbullens Dag (Cinnamon Roll Day). Swedish kanelbulle, however, has a distinctive flavor because it also contains cardamom (Vienna Bread). Its main ingredients are flour, cinnamon, sugar, and butter, which provide a robust and sweet flavor. 

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

Autumn in Budapest

The fall weather is very much ideal for wandering around Budapest, especially that it is a walking city. Strolling around allows you to discover the city's cozy cafés and restaurants offering their retreat if needed when temperatures cool down. Hoping to visit in the fall? Keep in mind that hotels and flights are more affordable at this time and you can use your savings to enjoy some of the great restaurants in the city. Many restaurants also offer goose and foie gras on their menu come fall especially in November because November 11th is the feast of St. Martin. This day allows Hungarians to traditionally celebrate by eating goose dishes and drinking the season's first wine. Lastly, there are some festivals and events held in Budapest in the fall. 

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Barcelona Has Some of the Best City Sunsets

Barcelona seems to be under a special kind of magic spell as soon as the sun sets. It is something you have to experience with your own eyes. There is a breathtaking twilight that settles over Barcelona that evokes wonder and appreciation. If you're coming to visit, make sure to squeeze some time to watch the sunset in Barcelona. Here, we've listed a few of our favorite spots.

 1. Castillo de Montjuic

2. W Barcelona

3. Carmel Bunkers

4. Park Güell

5. Tibidabo

6. Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC)

7. Las Arenas

Let’s get you to Barcelona during sunset. Call me or email me now to get planning.

Gamla Stan Fun Facts

Explore the gorgeous Old Town of Stockholm, Gamla stan, one of the largest and best-preserved medieval city centers. Walk through old alleys and magical cobblestone streets and see what it was like to live in Stockholm from the mid-1200s until today. Along the way, see Stockholm attractions such as the Royal Palace and Stortorget, the colorful square with photogenic houses and Nobel Museum that forms the heart of the Gamla stan. Admire the outside of the Nobel Museum and rows of 17th- and 18th-century townhouses lining the square and learn how it was once the scene of one of the darkest episodes in Sweden’s history. 

The best way to see it is with a walking tour and a local guide, and then to explore on your own.

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