Why Madeira Is Portugal’s Best-Kept Secret

Our visit to Madeira was hosted by Discovering Madeira and TAP Air Portugal. All opinions are strictly our own.

Travelers around the world have discovered many of Portugal’s charms, but the autonomous region of Madeira is still somewhat off the tourist radar.

Camara de Lobos in Madeira, Portugal. — Balate Dorin / Shutterstock

About a 90-minute flight from Lisbon, Madeira is an island paradise that even mainland Portuguese visit infrequently. It’s a hidden gem that should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Here are just a few reasons to visit this spectacular archipelago on your next trip to Portugal.

The gardens at Monte Palace in Madeira. — A_Mikhail / Shutterstock

You Can Take A Cable Car To See Spectacular Gardens

Funchal is Madeira’s central hub. From the city center, a gondola lift takes visitors on a 15-minute ride up to the hilltop town of Monte, where you can catch amazing aerial views of Funchal and the blue Atlantic.

The trip ends at the impressive Monte Palace, which comprises 750,000 square feet including an exquisite garden with exotic plants from around the world. There are ponds filled with colorful koi carp, roaming peacocks, stunning flowers, and black and white swans. The Monte Palace Museum houses three floors of collections, including contemporary sculptures from Zimbabwe and beautiful mineral specimens.

Click here to get your discounted cable car tickets!

Wicker sledge cars in Medeira. — boivin nicolas / Shutterstock

You Can Ride A Wicker Sledge Car

In the 1850s, the sledge (or wicker toboggan) was the primary form of transportation from Monte down to Funchal. These days, the sledge car experience is more for fun than necessity.

Monte sledges come with two men called carreiros dressed in white and wearing straw hats. The carreiros steer riders, who sit in wicker baskets mounted on runners, down a winding road. The 10-minute ride can be a bit bumpy, but it is certainly exhilarating. Some walking is required to get to the ride and from the end of the ride back to town.

If you want a thrill, be sure to take a sledge down the hill!

Grab your sledge adventure tour tickets here!

The Painted Doors Project in Funchal's Old Town. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

Old Town Funchal Is Charming

Funchal’s Old Town is both vibrantly modern and historic. The location of the first settlement on Madeira, the Old Town maintains its historic charm, architecture, and significance. Visitors get a sense of the town’s sparkling personality while wandering the cobblestone streets, touring the churches, and popping into the shops and cafes.

The Old Town shines even brighter because of the Painted Doors Project, a brilliant permanent outdoor art walk. Rua de Santa Maria is a long, lively cobblestone road full of restaurants, bars, and shops, perfect for a stroll. The painted doors (and windows, walls, and other spots) add even more character to the Old Town scene.

Traditional Santana houses in Portugal. — Balate Dorin / Shutterstock

Santana Is Home To Unique Traditional Houses

Santana is an enchanting town full of flowers, meadows, waterfalls, and scenic walks. One of its most unique features is the heritage area in the center of town that features traditional houses. These small triangular thatched-roof houses typically found in rural areas were used by local farmers during the early days of settlement. A heritage preservation initiative has saved more than 100 of these delightful homes, many of which are being restored. Today, the houses offer tourist information, postal services, and local products for purchase.

We also ventured across the street to explore a small but lovely fruit market. The local vendors were happy to tell us about interesting fruits such as the soursop, Madeira banana, and passion fruit.

A levada trail in Madeira. — haraldmuc / Shutterstock

It’s Wonderfully Walkable

Madeira is a fitness aficionado’s dream. Well-marked walking routes and trails are located all over the island. From short, easy trails on flat terrain to advanced walks that can take half a day or more, there’s a path for just about anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Madeira on foot.

Among the most interesting trails are the levada trails. Levadas are small channels or aqueducts that carry water from one part of the island to another. Originally intended to supply the drier southern part of the island with water from the north, levadas are now also used to provide hydroelectric power. Many levadas have lush walking paths beside them that offer lovely views of indigenous Madeira flowers and plants.

The Sunrise On Pico Do Arieiro Is Unforgettable

Getting up before the crack of dawn isn’t easy, but seeing an unforgettable sunrise from the top of Pico do Arieiro, nearly 6,000 feet high, makes it worthwhile. A 45-minute drive from Funchal, Pico do Arieiro offers views of mountains, valleys, and perhaps even clouds below as the sun rises over the beautiful island.

Several tour operators provide island tours that include a sunrise breakfast at this exquisite spot. Our Discovery Island Madeira tour included a jeep excursion for the sunrise, a portable breakfast, and some scenic stops on the way back.

It is cold at the summit, so bring a warm coat. And though you can get to the mountaintop area by car, if you want to see the sunrise from the most scenic spots, you’ll need to walk a short distance on rocky terrain, so wear suitable shoes.

A meal from Faja dos Padres. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

The Local Cuisine And Beverages Are Delightful

As is true of Portugal in general, eating in Madeira is an absolute delight. Fresh ingredients and tasty preparations make each meal a memorable experience.

In addition to outstanding food, many places in Madeira have fantastic views. One of our favorite spots is Quinta do Furao, a lovely restaurant with an inn nestled among its own vineyards. We dined on a veranda overlooking dramatic seaside cliffs. The food is simply delicious, and the house-made sweet potato bread is heavenly.

Another unique dining experience can be found at Faja dos Padres, where visitors can experience several Madeira delights at one time. A former Jesuit summer retreat, Faja provides a short scenic cable car ride down to the beach area to visit a wine cellar and taste excellent Madeira wine. Visitors also get a tour of the vineyards and bountiful gardens and a meal at the dreamy seaside cafe. Cozy villas are available for rent if Faja’s beauty is too hard to resist.

Famous Madeira wine. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

Madeira’s famous fortified wine, known broadly as Madeira wine, actually comes in several levels of sweetness and is produced from numerous grapes. World-famous producers like Blandy’s offer local tastings and tours.

Another Madeira drink specialty is poncha. This potent beverage is made with cane sugar alcohol, citrus juices, and spices. Each place has its own special recipe, so a poncha bar crawl is always a great idea — you can start at Madeira Rum House.

The Mercado dos Lavradores in Old Town Funchal. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

There Are Plenty Of Shopping Opportunities

Madeira has plenty of shopping, too. We loved the [Mercado Dos Lavradores](http://www.visitmadeira.pt/en-gb/explore/detalhe/mercado-dos-lavradores-(farmers%E2%80%99-market) (farmers market) in Old Town Funchal. Many vendors sell flowers and plants, fruits and produce, fish, and souvenirs. The building that houses the market is a grand structure with beautiful azulejos, or tiles depicting regional scenes.

In addition to small local shops that pepper Madeira’s streets, large malls including Forum Madeira, La Vie Shopping Center, and Madeira Shopping offer stores, restaurants, and entertainment in convenient collections. For something different, visit the Nini Andrade Silva Design Centre and explore a gallery of the famed designer’s work, visit the shop, and dine in the pricey but stylish restaurant.

View from Les Suites at The Cliff Bay. — Sue Reddel and Diana Laskaris

You Can Stay In A Gorgeous Beach Hotel

For a sumptuous experience, stay in one of Madeira’s gorgeous beach hotels. The Cliff Bay is a stunning five-star resort overlooking the Atlantic. Amenities include a Michelin-starred restaurant, bars, bistros, swimming pools, a tennis court, a gym, and a spa.

Otherwise, opt for Les Suites at The Cliff Bay, a new expansion with 23 luxurious suites and its own infinity pool, restaurant, and wellness facilities. Suites guests also have access to all Cliff Bay amenities, and both hotels offer direct access to the sea.

Ribeira Brava in Madeira, Portugal. — Balate Dorin / Shutterstock

Portugal is a wonderful place to visit, but Madeira is a hidden gem where visitors can still enjoy the thrill of discovery. With its breathtaking views, incredible food, great shopping, and fabulous culture, Madeira is the best-kept secret in Portugal.

Interested in learning more about Portugal? Check out How Portugal Stole Our Hearts, Must-Visit Places In Portugal’s Beautiful Algarve Region, or How To Spend A Day In Porto, Portugal.

How To Spend A Day In Toulouse, France

The southern French city of Toulouse is probably best known as the gateway to the Canal du Midi, a canal built under orders from Sun King Louis XIV back in the 1600s to connect the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean, and it is a popular place for hopping onto a narrow houseboat for a bit of slow boating. The city’s other claims to fame are its aviation history and the fact that many of its ancient houses have been built from an orange-pink stone, earning it the moniker La Ville Rose, the Pink City.

The capital of the Occitanie region and close to the Pyrenees mountain range, Toulouse’s ancient cobbled streets are signposted in two languages: French and Occitan, a language that sounds like a cross between French, Italian, and Spanish. But despite it being France’s fourth-largest city with 1.2 million inhabitants, the center of the city is intrinsically walkable, making it perfect for a day of exploration, although if you decided on staying longer, you would not get bored either.

Palace Capitole in Toulouse. — Semmick Photo / Shutterstock

Exploring The Pink Heart Of Toulouse

Setting off from the rather grand Place Capitole, head down Rue Lafayette toward Metro Capitole, with the Tourism Office located in the cute turret in the park on your left. From here on, head roughly along the large pedestrianized shopping street that is Rue d’ Alsace Lorraine, which turns into Rue du Languedoc.

Of course, is just a general guide, as the most picturesque areas are the little streets and squares, such as Place St Georges and Square de la Trinite by rue des Filatiers along the way, and off to both sides. Rue des Arts and Pierre de Fermat, together with Rue Peyas and Rue des Changes, are all pedestrianized and invite you to get lost and explore. Closer to Place Capitole, must-sees are rue du Taur and the Victor Hugo Market. On your way, look out for the fabulous churches of Basilique Saint-Sernin and Notre-Dame du Taur, both with spectacular steeples, and the Jacobines Convent and the Musee des Augustines for impressive medieval architecture.

But more to the point, look at all the crooked, pink buildings in the cobble-stoned alleyways, and you’ll soon understand why Toulouse is called the Pink City.

Discovering The Arts In Toulouse

It feels like art is all around you when exploring Toulouse, be it the stunning street art in and around Rue Gramat in the quartier Arnaud-Bernard, the small architectural details on the buildings, or the modern Victor Hugo market building at the corner of Rue Causette and Rue du Rempart Villeneuve, where styles contrast, but beautifully so. But for a proper art fix, look no further than the Fondation Bemberg housed in a gorgeous city palace, the Hotel d’Assezat. Crammed full of anything and everything from achingly beautiful Canalettos to delicate blue-and-white ceramics, all in sumptuous surroundings, this is a favorite art museum in Toulouse that will take up at least an hour of your time.

For a more contemporary approach, don’t miss Les Abattoirs. Yes, the sprawling complex once housed abattoirs (that is, slaughterhouses), but is now completely re-invented and a one-stop-shop for indoor and outdoor contemporary art in an equally, if totally different, setting than the old palace. Plus, there is a great cafe. Depending on the exhibitions and when you visit, plan on between an hour and two hours spent here.

The Cite de l'Espace in Toulouse. — Amy_Shot / Shutterstock

Take Flight In Toulouse

Toulouse’s aviation history is one of firsts, from the first motorized plane built in Toulouse and the first European postal service Aeropostale launched with pilot-turned-author Saint-Exupery and legendary Jean Mermoz as pilots to the first supersonic plane, the Concorde, built and tested in Toulouse, and the first double-decker passenger plane, the A380, that was assembled and first flown in Toulouse. Add to that the country’s space research and, quite literally, rocket science centers situated here as well, and if you are not an aviation enthusiast to start with, Toulouse will turn you into one.

To experience some of the city’s aviation buzz, go west on metro line B to Ramonville and then onto Bus 37 to the Cite de l’Espace, where you can have a look at the MIR space station and finally figure out how the bathrooms work in space, then walk along the Piste des Geants, the former runway the first international postal flights took off from.

Or head north-east to Aeroscopia on Tram line T1 from metro stop Arenes to witness a collection of some of the world’s largest, fastest, oldest, and simply most amazing aircraft. You can also pop across to one of the enormous hangars to see some of the Airbus A380 assembly stages.

Sadly, both options are a little out of the city center, and you would have to allow a three-hour round trip for each, so choose wisely!

Pont Neuf bridge in Toulouse at sunset. — amskad / Shutterstock

Watch The Sunset With An Aperitif In Hand

The mighty Garonne River curves through Toulouse on its way toward Bordeaux and eventually the Atlantic Ocean. One of a handful of worldwide rivers that experience a tidal bore, it is also the only place left where the critically endangered European sea sturgeon still breed. The river is crossed by many bridges, but the loveliest is Pont Neuf, officially opened by Louis XIV on October 19, 1659 after nearly a century of building in progress.

In time for sunset, it is a lovely walk under the trees. Look at the river and head toward Quai de la Daurade. By the quay, there are plenty of benches and grassy areas all awaiting the nightly influx of locals and visitors alike, headed there for a spectacular sunset over the river and against the Toulouse skyline. Head to the terrace of the Cafe des Artists, order an aperitif, and wait for the sun to set. And while the sun is turning your surroundings orange and pink, the starlings of the area will usually turn up for a chirpy murmuration before settling down for the night in the trees. It is a perfect spot to wind down from the day, and for relaxing before heading to a good Toulouse dinner.

Fresh baguette sandwiches from Boca. — Boca

Eating In Toulouse

Eating in Toulouse, as in the rest of France, is important. Many small restaurants offer traditional Toulouse food, such as hearty cassoulets, a bean-and-sausage stew, but there are also plenty of lighter options around. For breakfast, simply grab a fresh croissant from any boulangerie and a coffee on the go and settle in a park for a morning picnic.

While you are exploring the city, pop into Boca (45 Rue Peyrolieres) for a light lunch. Their fresh baguette sandwiches and tapas, such as gorgeous Spanish omelet tortillas, are perfect.

For a sweet treat in between meals, look no further than Le Bonbonniere , where you get a selection of cakes and sweets traditional in Toulouse.

In the evening, head back to Victor Hugo Market and sit outside like the locals. J’Go offers a good cassoulet and many daily specials from fish to meat fresh from the market. They also have a great selection of wines.

Where To Stay In Toulouse

If you want luxury right in the middle of it all, look no further than the Grand Hotel de l’Opera, right on Place Capitole in the city center. The grand building is full of great design details and is perfect for that first-class experience.

A little quieter but within a three-minute walk of the city center and set away from the street in a green courtyard, you’ll find Privilege Hotel Mermoz keeping with Toulouse’s aviation theme. A cozy bar, a quiet pool, and lovely staff make it a haven away from the bustle of the city.

Or, for a legendary stay, book room 32 in the Grand Balcon Hotel, where Saint Exupéry lived and wrote for an extended period. Comfortable, overlooking the Place Capitole, and right on the corner of some of Toulouse’s best historic streets, this is a literary stay right in the city center.

A street full of tourists in Toulouse, France. — Jordi C / Shutterstock

The Toulouse 24-Hour Tourism Pass

The tourism office by metro Capitol is the place to buy a 24-hour Tourism Pass, which allows you free entrance to the below-mentioned art museums, free public transport, and reduced access to the aviation attractions. For €18 per person, it is worth it if you decide to pop into several museums and maybe hop onto the metro a few times, but not if you are mostly interested in walking and looking.

The entrance fees in Toulouse are relatively low. For example, the full entrance fee to Fondation Bemberg is €8 per person, and the pass’s 15 percent reduction at the Cite de l’ Espace or a €2.50 reduction at Aeroscopia only just make it worth it. But if you intend to pop into other museums along the way, then get the card, as it will save you a few euros and a bit of hassle throughout the day. And, if using public transport, please remember to validate the card on the machines inside the bus, tram, or metro; otherwise you will be charged a fine.

Find more information on the 24-hour tourism pass here.

Planning the ultimate French vacation? Read up on our suggested driving tour of the south of France: six destinations to visit, plus nine tips for visiting France’s Mont-Saint-Michel.

What To Know About Dachau Concentration Camp Before You Visit

The Bavaria region in southern Germany is justifiably famous for its beautiful mountain scenery, great beer, and unique culture. Tourists flock there to eat, drink, and soak up the atmosphere in any number of gorgeous towns and villages.

Just to the northwest of Munich, in the Bavaria region, lies the small town of Dachau. If traveling was only about seeing the truly wonderful and beautiful places on earth, this would surely remain off the beaten path. However, every year over 800,000 people are drawn to experience something different.

From 1933 to 1945, Dachau was the site of the very first of Nazi Germany’s concentration camps. The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site thoughtfully preserves the location, the history, and many of the original buildings as a learning experience for you to visit and take away your own memories and emotions.

Dachau Concentration Camp in Germany. — Brandon Bourdages / Shutterstock

Why Visit Dachau Concentration Camp?

Everyone has their own reason for visiting these places, and tour buses from all over Europe, lined up in the car park, testify to the almost magnet-like attraction this site holds.

For us, Dachau was the fifth former concentration camp site we visited since arriving in Poland three months earlier. Auschwitz, Birkenau, Treblinka, Gross Rosen, and now Dachau — all had similarities while also being different in their own way. We somehow felt drawn in, as though we couldn’t be in this region and just drive by. Maybe it was a thirst for knowledge about history, a yearning to connect as humans with the events that took place here, or maybe we just needed to understand how this site could ever have existed in the first place. It’s hard to really pin down our exact reasons, but we are so grateful we went, and somehow feel richer and more empowered for the experience.

“Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it” — this famous quote by philosopher George Santayana is printed on a plaque within the Auschwitz Concentration Camp. Given the divisive climates in many countries around the world, the more we know about what extremest ideologies led to in the past, the greater the prospects of preventing it happening again in the future. This alone may be enough to include a visit to Dachau Concentration Camp in your itinerary.

Whatever your reasons for visiting this memorial site, we can help prepare you to fully absorb the experience this infamous place will offer you.

Give Yourself Enough Time

Dachau isn’t a rush around, take photos, and leave destination. There is a lot to absorb, a vast amount of information to process, and it will take time for your emotions about what you are seeing to set in. The official website recommends spending half a day. We had control of our own timetable and spent six hours, which was perfect for us.

Take A Virtual Tour

If you are time constrained, take a Virtual Tour online ahead of time to identify the areas of most interest to you, then head straight to those when you arrive.

Prepare To Feel Emotional

Over 40,000 people lost their lives here in the most atrocious conditions imaginable. Others were tortured, starved, and scarred for life. Their stories are told and shown in sometimes graphic detail. You are supposed to feel shocked, dismayed, and ashamed by what humans did to each other here. You are also likely to be uplifted and enheartened by some of the stories of courage, self-sacrifice, survival, and the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. This is one reason why Dachau is such a compelling place to visit.

Do Your Homework

Prepare yourself for the inevitable information overload by learning something about Dachau Concentration Camp and what happened there before you arrive.

The Virtual Tour, mentioned above, provides a brief overview of each building and memorial site.

One of the biggest questions that you will ask yourself is How could this have happened? The museum provides a very detailed timeline of Hitler’s rise to power and the subsequent development of the concentration camp network. Reading this article published by the National World War II Museum in New Orleans before your visit will help you digest the answers to this question.

It is clear that Germany as a nation has fully accepted responsibility for the horrors of the concentration camps. They bend over backward to educate their own citizens and visitors about what really happened at these places. As you progress through the timeline exhibits, you read just how the German public was drawn into the Nazi propaganda — and into Hitler’s dream of a racially pure German empire. Once Hitler was elected as Chancellor, however, it was too late, and they were locked into his tyrannical dictatorship.

The logical progression of the storyboards almost seemed a little too obvious to me, as if the events had been spun to give some justification as to the unfolding history. But why? Maybe so visiting Germans didn’t feel too guilty or foreigners too angry? You can make your own mind up on your visit.

Know What Kind Of Concentration Camp Dachau Was

There were actually several types of Nazi concentration camps, depending on their role and the prisoners they held. Prior to the outbreak of World War II, Dachau Concentration Camp held only German political prisoners, which then extended to Austrians and later Czechs as Nazi Germany annexed those countries. Subsequently, other people treated as undesirables by the Nazi party, including Jews, gypsies (Roma and Sinti people), homosexuals, priests from Poland, and Soviet prisoners of war were crowded into the packed barracks. At the time the camp was liberated by the American forces in 1945, Dachau was the central hub in a network of over a hundred sub-camps that provided slave labor for the German armaments industry.

How To Get To Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

Dachau is located about 12 miles northwest of central Munich or 20 miles to the east of Munich International Airport. Take the S2 train from Munich to Dachau station, then the 726 bus to the site. If you are driving, the address of the parking area is 73 Alte Romerstrasse, 85221, Dachau.

Full detailed instructions for those using public transport or driving there are available here.

The site is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except on December 24, and admission is free.

Guided Tours

Guided tours in English start at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily, so I suggest you time your arrival accordingly. The cost is less than $4 USD and the tour takes approximately 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can use Dachau’s informative audio guide for under $5 or simply read the comprehensive visual boards. On this occasion, we opted for the audio guide — which came with a great map — so we could progress at our own pace.

The advantage of having a guided tour is the extra background information provided — and that you have the opportunity to ask questions. However, the pace of the tour doesn’t give you the freedom to pause where it suits you, allowing your thoughts and emotions to fully develop.

Although Dachau may not be on your bucket list, time spent here embeds a lasting memory and deeper experience than the usual top-10-places-to-visit type of destinations.

Dachau Concentration Camp can be called the Ground Zero of concentration camps. It was the first of the Nazi camps and it was here that the Schutzstaffel, or SS who ran Dachau, refined the techniques and methods that were used in all other concentration camps in neighboring countries. None of the four other camps we visited gave the same in-depth background and information, so if you are only going to visit one concentration camp, Dachau would be my recommendation.

Also worth your time: 12 Unwritten Rules About How To Visit Europe’s Concentration Camps Respectfully and 10 World War II Sites To Visit In Poland.

Exploring Thailand’s Ancient City: 7 Quick Things To Know

Properly soaking in Thailand takes at least several weeks, but you can see the best of the country in a bite-sized form with Samut Prakan’s Ancient City. The Ancient City is Siam in miniature: 200 acres of breathtaking pagodas, temples, villages, and wonders of the ancient world.

The Ancient City is easily accessible from Bangkok — it’s only about 15 minutes away from the BTS Kheha Station by taxi. Plan to spend the better part of a day visiting it. Although there are refreshments available, it’s a good idea to pack some water and wear comfortable footwear. Technically you can explore the park on foot, but most guests opt to bicycle or rent a golf cart, especially since temperatures in the Thai capital often reach 90 degrees.

The Ancient City is incredible to behold: a marvel of imagination and sheer size. If you’re still not sold on a visit, these seven facts about the amazing Ancient City might convince you.

The Pavilion of the Enlightened in the Ancient City. — YURY TARANIK / Shutterstock

1. It Was Built To Keep Ancient Thai Culture Alive

The Ancient City was the brainchild of Lek Viriyahbhun, a Chinese immigrant whose love for Thai culture and architecture prompted its creation. Viriyahbhun created the museum as a means of preserving ancient treasures and keeping old traditions alive. He feared that the old culture would be lost if it wasn’t presented in an attractive way to new generations, and it was that vision that was the impetus for the Ancient City.

The Ancient City in Thailand. — Mr. Piya Meena / Shutterstock

2. Viriyahbhun’s Vision Was Initially Quite Different

Although Viriyahbhun’s ultimate creation is a spectacular love letter to Thai culture and architecture, his original vision was quite different. He initially saw the vast swath of land and pictured lush putting greens dotted with tiny Thai monuments. The Ancient City was quite nearly an elaborate golf course!

Viriyahbhun’s fears that modernity would leave old Thai culture behind changed his vision for the better. Today, instead of putting 18 holes, visitors can step back in time and immerse themselves in Thailand’s past, present, and mythology.

The floating market in the Ancient City. — Nickolay Vinokurov / Shutterstock

3. The Ancient City Mirrors Real Thailand

The Ancient City is logically laid out to reflect the geography and cultural influences of Thailand. It is split into five regions: the Northern Region, Northeastern Region, Central Region, Southern Region, and Suvarnabhumi.

The Northern Region is a celebration of Lanna architecture, a unique style in danger of being lost to the ages. The Southern Region touches on Malay and Chinese influences in Thai culture and art. One of the highlights of the Ancient City is in the Central Region: a genuine Floating Market that beautifully illustrates the relationship of Thai people with the rivers. The Floating Market is also a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat.

Sumeru Mountain Palace in the Ancient City. — R.M. Nunes / Shutterstock

4. You Can Step Into Thai Mythology

Sumeru Mountain Palace is an important location in Thai mythology, thought to be the center of the universe and a meeting place for all manner of cosmic beings. Although this palace doesn’t exist in real life, you can visit Viriyahbhun’s imagining of it in the Ancient City. The Sumeru Mountain Palace is guarded by an Anand fish, whose body curves around the entirety of the temple.

Sanphet Prasat Palace in the Ancient City. — Dmitry Pichugin / Shutterstock

5. The Museum Was Smiled Upon By Royalty

The revered Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej opened the museum in 1972, inviting Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip to partake in the celebration. It was the first time that British royalty had visited the Thai kingdom, and they were treated to an astonishing display of old and new Siam.

Phimai Sanctuary in the Ancient City. — YURY TARANIK / Shutterstock

6. You Can Visit Nearly Every Day

The Ancient City is open almost every day. Weekends and holidays are generally busier, so if you want to explore the Ancient City uninterrupted, consider going during the school week. If you want to avoid the blistering sun, visit in the morning.

The Ancient City generally opens at 9 a.m. and stays operational until 7 p.m.

7. It’s A Thai Tinseltown

With its near-perfect miniature replicas of famous Thai sites, it’s no surprise that the Ancient City often serves as a backdrop for Thai television shows and movies. Love Destiny, a popular romantic comedy, was filmed at the Floating Market.

You can see the Land of Smiles in one day at the Ancient City!

Planning a trip to Thailand? Check out these eight things to know before you go, this guide to cultural etiquette in the country, and this list of the best things to see and do while you’re there.

8 Incredibly Beautiful Places In Latvia

The often-overlooked Republic of Latvia is home to numerous gorgeous places. From its charming small towns to its metropolitan capital city of Riga and everywhere in between, this Baltic gem truly shines.

With its abundant natural beauty, imposing castles, and pretty cities, Latvia is undoubtedly one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. Here are just a few of its must-visit spots.

Old Town in Riga, Latvia. — Nikolay Antonov / Shutterstock

1. Old Town, Riga

The historic center of Latvia’s capital is a truly lovely spot. Riga is known as the Paris of the East due to its huge number of art nouveau-style buildings, many of which can be found in this colorful neighborhood. The intricate architectural style incorporates a variety of natural elements and is quite aesthetically pleasing.

Known as Vecriga in Latvian, the Old Town area also offers pretty river views and gorgeous churches, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s one of the main tourist draws in Latvia.

Venta Rapid Waterfall in Kuldiga, Latvia. — Valdis Skudre / Shutterstock

2. Venta Rapid Waterfall, Kuldiga

This pretty spot on the Venta is actually the widest waterfall in all of Europe. It’s located in the cute town of Kuldiga in the country’s western countryside. Visited by more than 100,000 tourists annually, the waterfall features adjacent pathways for observation.

The Venta Rapid Waterfall is also quite near a pretty red brick bridge known as the Old Brick Bridge. The bridge is the longest of its kind in Europe and dates to the 1800s.

The rest of Kuldiga is beautiful, too, and its Old Town is currently being considered for a UNESCO designation.

Rundale Palace in Pilsrundale, Latvia. — MagicPhotography / Shutterstock

3. Rundale Palace, Pilsrundale

This stately baroque structure is one of the grandest manors in all of Latvia. Designed by the same architect who designed the famous Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg, Rundale Palace deserves a visit, since it’s one of the country’s most impressive attractions. Besides the beautifully appointed and fully restored interior, the palace offers numerous gardens, an amphitheater, and several fountains. Plus, it’s even a museum!

Check out this beauty in southern Latvia if you get a chance. It deserves its nickname of the Versailles of the Baltics.

Kemeri National Park in Jurmala, Latvia. — Sanga Park / Shutterstock

4. Kemeri National Park, Jurmala

Home of the remarkable Great Kemeri Bog Boardwalk, Kemeri National Park, one of four national parks in Latvia, is a must-visit. The misty splendor of the ancient bog makes for a totally unique and stunning backdrop. Visitors should hike the wooden boardwalk to fully experience this natural attraction.

Pro tip: Climb the lookout tower for a bird’s-eye view of this boggy beauty. Some visitors even camp in the area overnight to view the sunrise from this vantage point.

Karosta in Liepaja, Latvia. — Alvydas Kucas / Shutterstock

5. Karosta, Liepaja

The western port city of Liepaja is a truly striking place; it’s known locally as the City Where the Wind Was Born and is now the third-largest city in Latvia.

Karosta, the military port, makes up about a third of the city. This area was closed during the Soviet occupation, but it is now accessible to tourists. The eerie beauty of stone breaking away into the sea and the juxtaposition of cold Soviet architecture with windswept natural features make it a fascinating destination.

Those with extra time in the area should be sure to visit the town’s famous Blue Flag Beach as well.

A beach in Jurmala, Latvia. — Ingus Kruklitis / Shutterstock

6. Jurmala

This pretty seaside enclave rests on the Gulf of Riga, just 30 minutes from the capital. A well-known resort area, this healing center charms in a variety of ways. There are historic and ornate wooden cottages sprinkled around the town, beautiful spa retreats, and a pretty white sand beach with views of the Baltic Sea. Nature lovers will appreciate the hiking options at Ragakapa Nature Park, a pine forest adjacent to picturesque sand dunes. Jurmala was a popular resort area during Soviet times, and it’s easy to see why.

Pro tip: Take the train from Riga for about 1 euro for easy access to Jurmala.

Cesis Castle in Cesis, Latvia. — yegorovnick / Shutterstock

7. Cesis Castle, Cesis

One of the best-preserved castles in Latvia, Cesis Castle, has medieval roots, though it was destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout its history.

Nowadays, visitors can tour the structure on foot. There is a small garden on the grounds, as well as dungeons and towers to be explored. Visitors should pay particular attention to the Western Tower, which offers nice views of the town and the nearby Gauja River Valley. It is a tradition to climb the Western Tower with a candle in hand.

A cow statue in Ventspils, Latvia. — Junik1976 / Shutterstock

8. Ventspils

There’s a lot to love about Ventspils, one of Latvia’s oldest port cities. But perhaps the most interesting attraction in the area is the public art. This industrial center is home to more than two dozen quirky cow statues, among other installations. They are mostly clustered on the riverside promenade, making it a hip and beautiful setting.

These are just some of the gorgeous spots to visit in the Baltic nation of Latvia. For even more ways to experience this beautiful country, spend time in its capital of Riga.

8 Reasons To Visit The Apostle Islands In The Winter

Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands are a nature lover’s paradise, and nearly 184,000 people visit the area each year. Tourists tend to visit in the spring and summer, when the waters of Lake Superior warm to swimmable temperatures.

That’s all well and good, but if you’re looking for a gorgeous destination for a winter trip, the Apostle Islands certainly qualify, provided that you know where you’re going (and you’re willing to dress in plenty of layers).

Here are a few reasons to put this gorgeous natural area at the top of your winter to-do list.

The ice caves at the Apostle Islands. — Bryan Neuswanger / Shutterstock

1. You Can Only See The Ice Caves In Winter

The ice caves are the Apostle Islands’ most breathtaking landmarks, though they’re not exactly easy to access (nor are they always accessible). Visitors must walk over the ice of Lake Superior to visit the caves, which requires… well, ice. That means that you’ll need sustained periods of wintery weather to make the trip.

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore staff regularly evaluates ice thickness, and visitors can only traverse the ice after several weeks of below-freezing temperatures. Major weather events can also compromise the stability of the ice, so prior to your trip, check this page to determine whether or not the ice caves are open. We can’t stress that enough — most Apostle Islands travelers head here for the ice caves, but the conditions need to be absolutely perfect for the ice to be traversable

If the weather cooperates, the mainland ice caves are enchanting. They’re located on the western end of the Mainland Unit in northern Bayfield County. Set your GPS to 90500 Meyers Road and prepare for a lengthy 1.1-mile walk in each direction. Consider bringing ski poles and heavy-duty winter boots along with heat packs, warm drinks, and other essentials.

While there are no authorized tours, visitors can explore the caves on their own during low-risk conditions. Be sure to carry cash, since there’s a small fee (currently $5 per person per day) to visit the ice caves.

A frozen waterfall in the Apostle Islands. — Alize Tran Photo / Flickr

2. You Can Photograph Frozen Waterfalls

During your approach to the ice caves, you’ll also get the opportunity to see frozen waterfalls lining the cliffs of the area. Bring your camera and make sure you know how to photograph in bright conditions. Most modern cameras (and smartphones) have a “snow” setting, but you can also set your camera’s aperture and shutter speed manually to ensure the best possible shot.

If you’re not a photography buff, the aperture setting controls the depth of the field, while the shutter speed controls the duration of the exposure. When shooting snowy landscapes, you’ll generally want a small aperture setting and a long shutter speed, but play around with the options in bright lighting to get a sense of how your camera works.

While the frozen waterfalls and icicles are beautiful to behold, resist the urge to stand near them. Icicles can come crashing down without warning, potentially causing injury, so you’re better off staying near the established cave paths.

3. You’ll Love Spending Time At The Nearby Ski Hills

Mount Ashwabay is a family-friendly recreation area with affordable day rates, well-kept slopes, and fantastic views of Lake Superior. Here, you’ll find 12 alpine runs over 65 acres, perfect for downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and other winter activities. There’s even a dedicated tubing hill, so if you’re traveling with family, this is a must-visit destination.

As with the ice caves, weather affects the available activities, so check the website when planning your trip. With that said, most of the trails and mountains remain accessible throughout the winter, even during short periods of unseasonably warm weather.

Views along the lakeshore in winter. — Vince In Wisco / Flickr

4. Experienced Hikers Can See Incredible Views On The Lakeshore Trail

The Lakeshore Trail is a serious undertaking, since it has a number of steep slopes and stream crossings. It extends for about 4.5 miles, but if you’re up for the challenge, it offers some of the best views of the lake during the winter.

The trail starts in the Meyers Road parking lot, so you can add it to your itinerary when visiting the ice caves (or in place of the ice caves, if the weather isn’t cooperating with your travel plans). As with the ice caves, you’ll want to dress in layers and bring a backpack with food, extra clothing, and other essentials.

5. Nearby Bayfield County Has Excellent Nordic Trails

For gentler trails, head to Bayfield County, where you’ll find an assortment of Nordic trails perfectly suited for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The Drummond Ski Trail system is ideal for beginners, though Nordic trails are always somewhat intense. If you’re not much of a skier, several businesses in Bayfield offer snowmobile rentals, including Adventure North Rentals.

Some of Bayfield County’s trails are free to the public, but others have modest access fees. As with pretty much every other winter activity on this list, weather can affect accessibility, but Bayfield County operates a trail website that makes research easy.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. — Bryan Neuswanger / Shutterstock.com

6. The Lighthouses Are Beautiful In Snowy Weather

While the Apostle Islands’ famous lighthouses are beautiful at any time of year, you’ll see them in a whole new light (pardon the pun) in the winter. Key stops include the Old Michigan Island Lighthouse, built in 1856 and retired in 1929, and Sand Island Lighthouse, built in 1881 and still in service.

In total, the Apostle Islands are home to eight historic lighthouses (nine if you count Old LaPointe Lighthouse, which is now in ruins, but still viewable), so if you spend a substantial amount of time exploring the area, you’ll inevitably encounter a few. Guided tours of the lighthouses are not available during the winter, but the structures are still quite picturesque.

7. You Can Spend A Romantic Weekend In A Cozy Lodge

Sure, summer resorts are fine, but we’ll just say it: Lodge vacations are underrated. Cozy up with family and friends at one of the many wonderful lodges near the Apostle Islands, and you’ll understand the appeal.

Great accommodations in the area include the Old Rittenhouse Inn, a historic bed and breakfast with 20 guest rooms in two striking Victorian homes. The inn has a gourmet restaurant and frequently hosts wine tastings. Be sure to check the website if you’re traveling around Valentine’s Day, since the Old Rittenhouse offers special packages for romantic getaways. If you’re traveling with a larger group, their Mystery Dinner Weekends (scheduled upon request for groups of 8 to 14 guests) also deserve some consideration.

Another option is The Lightkeeper’s Lodge, a small but luxurious hotel on Madeline Island. Amenities include gas fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs, private decks, and nautically themed artwork to help you appreciate the culture of the Apostle Islands.

Lodging is typically less expensive in the winter, but you’ll still want to plan your trip as early as you can; when winter conditions make the ice caves accessible, lodge rooms tend to fill up quickly.

8. You Can Enjoy Quiet Comfort On Madeline Island

You’ll travel to the Apostle Islands to enjoy the natural beauty, but that doesn’t mean that you’ll spend your entire trip in total isolation. Madeline Island, the largest of the islands, has a wonderful (and slightly weird) local culture with plenty of great restaurants, bars, and other points of interest.

Stop by The Beach Club, a pub-style restaurant known for its whitefish cakes and fish tacos. During the winter, the dining hours vary, but the restaurant is open seven days a week. To ensure a spot, give them a call when scheduling your trip.

You might also grab a cup of coffee at Mission Hill Coffee House, which features a full deli, a large wine selection, and an adjoining gift shop. This little shop has a little bit of everything, and it’s a nice place to relax with friends and enjoy some conversation. This is also one of the few spots on Madeline Island with public Wi-Fi, so most travelers will find themselves heading to Mission Hill at least once.

Wherever you go, you won’t have to fight crowds. Winter isn’t a peak season for tourism on Madeline Island, so you’ll be able to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Tourists exploring the Apostle Islands. — mattckaiser / Shutterstock

The Apostle Islands make a great destination for a winter vacation, and whether you’re hoping to spend your days exploring or relaxing, you’ll find plenty of options. Plan your trip as early as you can, bring plenty of warm clothes, and prepare for a remarkable experience — there’s no place like the Apostle Islands, and the colder the weather, the more you’ll want to extend your stay.