Posts for History

Discovering the Charm of Rhinebeck: A Journey Through Time in the Hudson Valley

North America, Travel Blog - Ross French - January 28, 2023

Rhinebeck

Rhinebeck is a small village located in the Hudson Valley region of New York. The village was established in the late 17th century, when Dutch settlers began to arrive from Albany and Rensselaerwyck (now Schenectady). They came to this area because it had the most productive soil for farming purposes. Rhinebeck’s economy has always been based on agriculture, but today it also relies on tourism and shopping centers such as Clinton County Mall & Outlet Center, which offers an array of stores such as Macy’s, Victoria’s Secret and Marshalls among others.

The town’s historical significance lies mainly in its role as a stopover point during early travel between Albany and New England during colonial times; however it also played an important role during American Revolution due to its strategic location along busy routes connecting New York City with Boston via Albany-Rensselaerville Road (later renamed Route 9W). Continue Reading

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Planning Your Summer Visit To Charlottesville, Virginia

Travel Blog - Ross French - May 28, 2022

Charlottesville

Spring is in the air, and you’re busy planning all of your getaways this summer. While you may have international travel on your list and some Caribbean destinations, you’re going to get in some domestic travel this season. Studies have shown that people who take vacations regularly see a boost in their mental health and have markedly decreased chances of developing cardiovascular disease or strokes. If you’re narrowing down your list of U.S. cities to visit and are looking for a small-town feel with the perks of a big city, consider adding Charlottesville, Virginia, to your list of potential destinations. Let’s look at some of the great reasons to visit the town, which is consistently voted one of the happiest cities in the states. Continue Reading

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Best Free Things to Do in Boston 2023

Destinations, Travel Blog, USA - Ross French - May 12, 2022

Best Free Things to Do in Boston

Boston is no doubt one of the most popular and historic cities globally. A lot of travelers from around the world visit this city each year. Needless to say, they enjoy every minute of their stay. It is because there are so many things to do in this city. And the best part is that many of those things cost nothing. This article will talk about some of the best free things to do in Boston. Continue Reading

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Munich: The Ultimate Destination for Party, Culture, and Affordable Luxury

Travel Blog, Travel Tips - Ross French - October 31, 2015

Munich is renowned as one of the world’s premier party cities. With Oktoberfest—one of the most popular beer festivals globally—on its roster, it might seem surprising that the city isn’t even more synonymous with non?stop celebrations. Yet, while flashier destinations like Paris, Istanbul, Bangkok, and London often steal the limelight, Munich remains an underrated gem. Although Oktoberfest draws huge crowds at the end of September, the city offers far more than a single seasonal event. Increasingly, travellers are discovering that this truly adventurous city has been waiting in the wings all along. Continue Reading

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5 Reasons to Visit Turkey

Turkey - Ross French - September 7, 2013

Visit Turkey

Turkey is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination, but not everyone is convinced…yet. Here we intend to give you a rundown of the very best reasons to holiday in this fascinating country. By the end of it, there is a good chance you will be ready to book your trip to visit turkey.

5 Reasons to Visit Turkey

1. Beaches

With a vast coastline, there is plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fun by the sea in Turkey. Different areas of the country have their vibes, but this only adds to the charm. In the north, you can enjoy visiting resorts on the Black Sea, while in the south there is the Aegean and Mediterranean.

These latter regions benefit from sunshine for a large part of the year, with Antalya and Bodrum particularly popular among tourists. Whether you want to get a tan, build a sandcastle, or enjoy some watersports. Visit Turkey, It has a beach for you.

2. History

You cannot go anywhere in Turkey without stumbling across a historical monument. In fact, the country is home to more archaeological sites than anywhere else in the world. Visit Turkey, Head to Ephesus where the Temple of Artemis was constructed, the city of Troy – famous for its war, and the stunning cave church of St Peter.

More recent history can also be found throughout the country and especially in Istanbul. Here, you will find the likes of the Topkapi and Dolmabahce palaces and the Galata Tower, dating back to 1348.

3. Culture

Turkey is a fascinating mix of different cultures and religions that all add something to the whole. This means that music, dancing, and folklore varies throughout the regions, with influences from all over.

This has also led to some amazing architecture on show. Don’t miss the Blue Mosque, named for the color of the tiles lining the walls inside, and its neighbor, the magnificent Aya Sofya. This structure has a huge freestanding down and amazing mosaics depicting figures from Christianity.

4. Food

There are many places in the world where food is linked to the culture and eaten with gusto, but nowhere quite as much as Turkey. It has taken the best parts from Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines and made them it’s own.

The most amazing kebabs come from the southeastern part of the country and bear no resemblance to those you eat after a drunken night out. Wonderful assortments of meze are presented to diners prior to the main course, and seafood plays a huge role in Turkey’s food chain.

Be sure to try a balik ekmek or fish sandwich while in Istanbul. Fish does not get any fresher than this. Once caught they are grilled right by the water, popped between some bread and served hot to tourists and locals alike.

Another assault on the senses is a walk through the spice bazaar, where mounds of rose and pale yellow cubes of Turkish delight is piled high. Try before you buy and never purchase the packaged stuff as the fresh is far more delicious.

5. Value for money

Turkey is a relatively cheap destination, and those converting pounds into Turkish lira will find that they get a good exchange rate. You can end up spending a lot of money if you want to buy expensive rugs and souvenirs, which are tempting, but many everyday items are more reasonable.

Why are you waiting for? Go and Visit Turkey!

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