Travel |

October 7, 2019

10 Reasons to Visit Taipei

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When it comes to Asian travel destinations, cities such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Shanghai tend to be at the top of peoples’ bucket lists. However, if you want to try something a little different for your next vacation, Taipei is where to go. The capital of Taiwan, this thriving metropolis is buzzing with history, culture, a lively food scene and plenty of entertainment, promising a rewarding and fun-filled getaway.

1) The Architecture

Taipei boasts some incredible architecture, with its most famous being the Taipei 101 building. For four years, this skyscraper was the tallest building in the world, and even held claim to having the fastest elevator in the world. With its extraordinary size, this is definitely the focal point of Taipei’s cityscape, with few other buildings soaring to such great heights, especially due to the high earthquake risk that Taipei constantly faces.

Another dominant piece of architecture would be the Grand Hotel – a five star establishment that was completed in 1973.

Also worth visiting is the Tao Zhu Yin Yuan Tower, which is a relatively new addition to the city. An easy walk from the Taipei 101 building, this twisted design is extremely eco-friendly, and hopes to soon be the greenest building in all of Taiwan.

2) The Culture

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Although Taipei is highly urbanized, there are still so many pockets of culture to be found around the city, most noticeably at the city’s many temples. Taiwan itself is home to more than 15,000 registered temples, and a large chunk of these can be found in Taipei.

Of course, you won’t have time to visit them all, so here are a few temples that you definitely should not miss out on:

Longshan Temple – one of the most iconic temples in the city, the local community renovates and maintains this historic building, retaining its traditional Chinese charm
Xingtian Temple – perhaps the busiest temple in the city, this temple recently became famous for removing all incense burners as a way to cut back on air pollution
Xiahai Chenghuang Temple – said to be home to the God of love, this is the temple to visit if you are looking for some help in the romance department
Bangka Qingshui Temple – dating all the way back to 1787, this temple holds a very special place in the heart of the Chinese immigrants who first came to Taiwan many years ago

Don’t forget, since all of Taipei’s temples are active places of worship, make sure that you dress modestly and act respectfully at each one you visit.

3) The Nature

When planning a city break, spending time in nature isn’t something that people usually expect to be able to do, but Taipei truly does boast some exquisite natural beauty. Even better, these secluded pockets of greenery are not too far away from the city center, making it easy to incorporate them into your itinerary.

The Yangmingshan National Park is always a popular spot with nature-seeking tourists. If you head to the top of the Datun Mountain, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city below. There are several small roads and trails throughout the park, as well as local cafes hidden within the forests, making this such an exciting area to explore.

If you head on over to the south-east part of the city, you will come across a suburb called Maokong. This area is famous for its tea plantations, complete with traditional teahouses tucked away in various corners of the hillsides. While you’re here, take a ride on the Maokong Gondola to enjoy some fantastic views of your surroundings.

4) The Food

Many people visit Taipei solely for its food scene, and it’s easy to see why. From fine dining restaurants to street-side stalls, there is delicious food to be found pretty much everywhere you visit in the city.

Not sure where to begin?

There are several food tours that you can sign up for if you would like an expert guide to take you to the best spots. Alternatively, you can meander through the city sampling local dishes at your whim. If you decide to do this, make sure that you do not miss out on these dishes:

- Beef noodle soup
- Daikon and scallion pancakes
- Taiwanese hot pot
- Braised pork rice
- Taiwanese fried chicken
- Pineapple cake

5) The Shopping

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Just like the city’s food scene, the shopping in Taipei ranges from glitzy high end boutiques to bustling street markets, giving you the very best of both worlds.

When it comes to markets, the Shilin Night Market tends to be the most popular. This is the largest market in Taipei, selling everything from food to jewelry to electronics, all at fantastic prices. If you would prefer to do your shopping during the day, check out the Jade Market, as well as the Underground Shopping Bazaar at the Longshan Temple (the perfect excuse to combine culture with some retail therapy).

If you’re seeking out stores that are a little more upscale, the Taipei 101 building is home to several big-name international brands, from Dior to Louis Vuitton. The Da’an District is also great for luxury shopping, especially since this is where you will find our OROGOLD Taipei store. Feel free to stop by for a complimentary facial, product demonstrations and an insight into some of our exclusive products.

6) The Museums

Love museums?

If so, you will love Taipei. There are several museums to visit throughout the city, but, if you only have time for a couple, make sure that you pick from the following:

National Palace Museum – this museum has won numerous awards, and is home to one of the largest collections of Chinse Imperial artefacts in the world, with 700,000 on display
Taipei Fine Arts Museum – boasting some of the most impressive fine art pieces in the country, this museum offers up both permanent and temporary exhibitions
National Taiwan Museum – the best place to learn more about the country’s history, culture and traditions
Museum of Contemporary Art – a smaller museum, this one features some truly unique modern art
Evergreen Maritime Museum – learn more about Taiwan’s naval forces, and have a go at commandeering a ship for yourself in the simulator room

7) The Hot Springs

Did you know that Taiwan is home to numerous hot springs?

A few of these can be found in and around Taipei, with the most popular being located in Beitou. Just a half hour MRT ride away from central Taipei, Beitou is where you will find the Datun volcanic range, resulting in several thermal valleys popping up around the area.

Begin your visit to Beitou with a stop at the Beitou Hot Springs Museum, which is free to enter. Featuring a mix of British and Japanese influences, this was the very first public hot spring bath in the area, making it well worth seeing.

After learning about the history of Beitou’s hot springs, you will probably be more than ready to have a soak in one for yourself.

Well, the main public hot springs in the area is known as the Millennium Hot Springs, and there are four different pools for you to choose from. Each one varies in temperature, beginning with the coolest pool at the bottom and the hottest at the top.

While you’re in the area, check out the Thermal Valley too, otherwise known as Hell Valley. This vividly green pool of water retains a constant temperature of around 100 degrees. Although it is way too hot to swim in here, being able to feel the immense steam rising from the surface of the water is still such an amazing experience.

8) The Festivals

Visiting a local festival is always a good way to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of a new destination.

Fortunately, Taipei hosts a number of festivals through the year, many of which are completely unique to the country. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting at certain times of the year, here are some of the festivals you may be able to catch:

Lantern Festival – held at the start of the Lunar New Year, which is usually somewhere around February, this festival sees thousands of different lanterns released into the sky, each one featuring a handwritten message
Jinshan Fire Fishing Festival – created to promote the tradition of fire fishing, this festival allows visitors to go out on the water with local fisherman, participating in some fire fishing
Fulong Sand Sculpting Festival – take in some incredible sand sculptures at one of the most beautiful beaches in the entire country
Dragon Boat Festival – featuring the largest dragon boat competition in all of Asia, this festival is packed with plenty of fun activities for the public to participate in
Taipei Water Festival – a way to promote aquatic activities and a healthy lifestyle, this festival consists of everything from swimming pool fun to seaside excursions

9) The Nightlife

While Taipei is full of energy during the day, the city comes even more alive at night. In amongst the many night markets dotted around the city, you will also find some vibrant nightlife spots.

Wondering where to go?

Whether you’re seeking a pulsating nightclub, a sleek bar, or a relaxing lounge, here are some of the best nightlife spots in Taipei:

Number 45 – once a traditional Chinese medicine store, this bar serves up everything from complex cocktails to draft beers
1001 Nights Taipei – a friendly venue with a restaurant, a bar and even a shisha bar, all accompanied by salsa, kizomba and hip hop music
Ximen Red House Area – unofficially known as the gay district of Taipei, you will find numerous LGBT-oriented bars, cafes and restaurants here
Landmark Taproom – an outdoor craft beer bar, which many locals would consider to be a hidden gem
KOR Taipei – one of the largest cocktail bars in the city, offering up an impressive selection of drinks
FRANK Taipei – a relaxing rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city’s skyline

10) The Day Trips

There is certainly plenty to do in Taipei, even if you have already visited the city before.

However, if you would like to venture a little further afield, Taipei actually makes a great location from which to embark on a few day trips.

Need some inspiration on where to go?

Check out these areas:

Jiufen – an old Japanese mining town, Jiufen is a great place to learn more about the Japanese colonization of the country
Yehliu Geopark – just north of Taipei, this area is full of natural beauty, along with some rare rock formations that have not been found anywhere else in the world
Tamsui – this small coastal town is home to some incredible seafood, along with an ancient harbor and some of the best sunsets in the country
Wulai – a mountainous region that will teach you more about the indigenous culture of Taiwan
Yilan – if you love hiking and outdoor adventure, Yilan is the place to go. You will also find hot springs, markets, and even a large waterfall here
Sun Moon Lake – the largest lake in Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is a little further away from Taipei than the other day trips on this list, but the scenery here is more than worth the journey

With so much to see and do in and around the city, it is no surprise that Taipei is slowly earning itself the reputation of being a thriving tourist hotspot. Whether you enjoy learning about heritage and culture, or would prefer to spend your vacation eating, drinking and shopping, Taipei offers up all of this plus so much more.

Travel |

August 23, 2017

| OROGOLD

Nature, Updated, at the Al Shaheed Park

Park in Kuwait City

Located on the edge of Kuwait City, the Al Shaheed Park is the largest urban park in Kuwait. For those looking to experience nature, history and culture, all in one place, make sure that you include a visit to the park while you are exploring Kuwait.

The History of the Park
The area that the Al Shaheed Park is in was originally created in 1964, with the aim of it being a formal Green Belt Park. As this grew into a garden, the area experienced quite a bit of renovation and development over the years, after which it was turned into the Al Shaheed Park, along with the aim of commemorating the country’s martyrs.

The Park’s Museums
The Al-Shaheed Park is home to two museums, both of which are worth touring if you are already going to be visiting the park anyway. The first is the Thekra Museum, which is a memorial museum that educates visitors on Kuwait’s history, including the battles that the country experienced, as well as the Gulf War. The second museum is the Habitat Museum, which is an environmental museum that aims to preserve and showcase the local environment and wildlife of Kuwait. This museum is quite a new one, as it was only inaugurated at the beginning of this year, but already has a wide array of geographical and environmental exhibits.

Historical Highlights of the Al Shaheed Park
There are a number of historical monuments dotted around Al Shaheed Park, which you will see as you make your way around the grounds. From the old city gates, which are in the exact same place that they were when they were first put up in the late 1800’s, to the Constitution Monument and the Martyrs Monument, you can learn so much about Kuwait’s history simply by taking a stroll around the Al Shaheed Park.

The Underground Tunnel
Lying beneath the Al Shaheed Park is a long underground tunnel, which was built in order to connect Kuwait’s green belt. This tunnel has now been completely renovated, and features a number of pieces of art, as well as three-dimensional Portuguese tiles that light up the passageway in vibrant shades of blue and green.

Other Facilities at the Park
In addition to the museums and historical monuments, there are plenty of other things to do at the Al Shaheed Park. The open-air amphitheater is where you can catch a number of live performances and special events, while the gift shop and book shop are always fun to explore, especially if you are looking for a unique souvenir to take home with you. Of course, be sure to stop off at one of the park’s restaurants or cafés if you are looking for a bite to eat, as they serve up tasty local food.

The Al Shaheed Park sprawls out for almost 20 hectares, and just about every area within it has been recently refurbished and updated. While the hustle and bustle of Kuwait City is always exciting, there will come a time when you need some tranquillity, making the Al Shaheed Park the perfect escape to head to.

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July 26, 2017

| OROGOLD

The Schloss Foundation and Benrath Park

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Also known as Benrath Palace, Schloss Benrath is a baroque-style palace that was completed in 1770, and holds such historic significance for the city of Düsseldorf that it has been submitted for UNESCO World Heritage designation. From exploring the actual palace and the museum within to touring the baroque square hunting park that surrounds it, this is a part of the city that history buffs will not want to miss.

The Main Palace
The Main Palace is where most visitors to Benrath Park start off at, and is a fantastic introduction to all that you will be seeing. The main palace contains historic furniture, art work, porcelain and more, all of which have been curated to give visitors an accurate impression of what court life would have been like in the later half of the 18th century. There are many exhibits on display to take a look at here, and guided tours are available if you would like a more in-depth knowledge of everything around you.

Other Museums in the Palace
Benrath Palace is home to two museums, one in its east wing and one in its west wing. The museum in the east wing is the Museum of European Garden Art, and is quite a unique one for the way in which it focuses solely on garden art from different parts of Europe. In the west wing, you will find the Natural History Museum, which is considered to be one of the best museums in the city. As you would expect, this museum focuses on natural history, but does this with a local spin, making it quite unique. There are also several exhibits here based on Benrath Park itself, which you will then be able to explore for yourself.

The Palace Park
Benrath Park is an oasis when it comes to greenery, and you will immediately notice the wide range of plants that live here. The park is divided into three distinct gardens, each with its own unique theme. From the French Garden with its spectacular orangery to the romantic Flower Garden, which used to be known as the English Garden, there is plenty to see here. As you make your way around the park, you will notice all of the lime tree avenues that surround you, and these are actually over 250 years old, and were created over time by training the growth of the trees. End you visit at the wooded section of Benrath Park, as the lush tree canopies provide a one-of-a-kind ecosystem for flowering plants to grow, as well as a number of colorful wildflowers, canals and ponds.

Benrath Palace was originally built as a hunting lodge and summer residence for Elector Carl Theodor, with its location being chosen due to its proximity to the River Rhine. While there were numerous garden palaces created in the 18th century, all over the world, Benrath Palace and its park is considered to be one of the most beautiful, and this is something that you will no doubt agree with once you pay it a visit for yourself.

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May 31, 2017

| OROGOLD

Russia’s Cosmopolitan Capital

The incredible city of Moscow is the cosmopolitan capital of Russia, and is well known for being wonderfully rich in history, culture and the arts. From shopping at GUM and TSUM to soaking up the history at the Kremlin, these are just a few of the highlights that you will experience during a visit to Moscow.

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The Kremlin
Moscow’s Kremlin lies at the heart of the city, with its high red walls and towers surrounding an inner city that consists of cathedrals, palaces and museums, all of which sit at the top of Borovitsky Hill. An early start is essential, as there is so much to see, from the tombs of the Royal Family to 12th century works of art. The Great Bell Tower and the Armoury are also well worth exploring, especially the latter, which is absolutely packed with treasures, including an impressive collection of Faberge eggs that date back to Tsarist days.

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GUM and TSUM
GUM and TSUM are two shopping malls that are wonderfully over-the-top. Right across the street from each other, the malls feature architecturally-impressive hallways and are lined with luxurious, designer stores, from Moschino to Burberry, making it well worth browsing, even if you do not intend to buy anything.

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Museums
Moscow is home to a wide variety of museums, the majority of which showcase the city’s incredible history and heritage, as well as the arts. The Tretyakov Gallery is a must visit, as is the Moscow Museum of Modern Art, and the State Historic Museum. If you have some extra time to spare, do check out the Garage Center for Contemporary Culture, as well as the Shchusev State Museum of Architectural, which is the only museum in the city that is entirely dedicated to architecture.

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St. Basil’s Cathedral
With its one-of-a-kind bonfire-style design, St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in all of Russia, with its design being a prime example of Russian dome-topped spires. While the exterior of the cathedral is definitely one of the most impressive sights that you will see in Moscow, do not worry too much about touring the interior if you are short on time, as this is relatively small, dark and simple, especially when compared with the extravagant exterior.

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Lenin’s Mausoleum
Located in Red Square, Lenin’s Mausoleum is a little creepy, as it contains the embalmed body of Vladimir Lenin, which has been on display almost every day since his death in 1924. This granite tomb is a must-see for visitors to Moscow, although keep in mind that the utmost respect is enforced here, meaning no cameras, no smoking and no putting your hands in your pockets. You are also not allowed to stop right in front of Lenin, and there are guards on-site to make sure that the crowds keep moving.

Moscow is a truly spectacular city, and there is so much to see and do. Whether you are into history and heritage or art and architecture, you will no doubt be impressed by all that Moscow has to offer.

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February 15, 2017

| OROGOLD

Take a Stroll Through Old Sacramento

Established during the 1849 California Gold Rush, Old Sacramento was the very first historic district to be created in the western United States, and is home today to a wide variety of museums, attractions and dining options. Covering an area of 28 acres along the banks of the Sacramento River, here are just a few of the highlights that you can expect to see when taking a stroll through Old Sacramento.

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The Museums of Old Sacramento
While you may not have time to fully tour each of the museums of Old Sacramento, they are all located within walking distance of each other, making it easy to spend a small amount of time at each as you pass by. The California Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts, as it has over 150 exhibits that tell the story of the development of the automobile. The California State Railroad Museum is another one that focuses on transport, with everything from extravagantly restored trains to antique locomotives. Of course, the Sacramento History Museum is definitely worth stopping off at if you want to learn more about the city’s dramatic history, as well as its turbulent Gold Rush past, while the Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum is a living replica of a one-room schoolhouse from California’s early days.

The Delta King
Located at the end of Old Sacramento, the Delta King is a historic riverboat that dates back to 1927, and has been beautifully restored since then. While the boat does not run anymore and is permanently docked here, it is still open for the public to explore, and even has a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a stunning waterfront backdrop.

Old Sacramento Underground Tours
Depending on how much time you have to spare, an underground tour of the city is well worth taking. These tours begin at the Sacramento History Museum, and take visitors down through excavated foundations and enclosed pathways, while teaching them all about the only successful street-raising project in California.

Shops and Restaurants
Old Sacramento is home to a wide range of shops and restaurants that each manage to maintain a quaint and traditional charm. The shops, of which there are everything from toys to handcrafted jewellery, can easily be browsed as you stroll through the town, and you are likely to pick up a few unique souvenirs, whether this may be a local piece of art, or a photograph of you and your group dressed up in Old West attire, a service that is provided by the town’s two old-fashioned photo shops. When it comes to restaurants, there are many to choose from, but if you are just seeking a sweet treat to snack on while you wander through town, head to Danny’s Mini Donuts, or to Munchies Salt Water Taffy.

Old Sacramento is an area unlike any other, and really does make you feel as though you have stepped back in time. While you may not be able to explore the entire area on foot, a leisurely stroll through Old Sacramento will still reward you with plenty of memorable experiences.

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January 6, 2017

| OROGOLD

The Best Things to Do in Tampa

With such a wide variety of attractions and activities, Tampa is a destination that can appeal to just about everyone. From theme parks to museums, here are some of the very best things to do in Tampa.

Busch Gardens
Florida is famous for its theme parks, and Tampa definitely does not fall short in this category. Busch Gardens is the main theme park here, and prides itself on being the ultimate adventure park for the entire family. From thrill rides to roller coasters, including the tallest dive coaster in the world, to gentle, child-friendly rides and animal attractions, the options here seem almost endless. Busch Gardens is also home to Adventure Island, which is a 30 acre tropical water park that features a variety of water adventures.

Safari Wilderness Ranch
For those who want to experience the magic of the Serengeti without ever having to set foot outside of the country, the Safari Wilderness Ranch is the perfect place to visit. This 260 acre reserve will appeal to any animal or nature lover, with either safari or camelback tours to choose from.

Tampa Riverwalk
The Tampa Riverwalk is definitely a must-do for those visiting the city, as this 2.5 mile pedestrian walkway will take you through some of the very best of Tampa’s attractions. From the Florida Aquarium to Kiley Gardens, there is a wide range of attractions and cultural landmarks to be found here. For those who want to stop for a bite to eat, the Sail Pavilion is a 360 degree bar that offers fantastic views of the waterfront, while Ulele is considered to be one of the top restaurants in the country, serving up dishes that have been inspired by Florida’s original natives.

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Museums
When visiting a new destination, it is always a good idea to spend some time learning more about its history and culture, and Tampa has some great museums available at which you can do exactly that. The Tampa Bay History Center features over 12,000 years of Florida’s history, and is a great starting point, before moving on to the Tampa Museum of Art, where you will find pieces ranging from ancient times to the modern day. The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts will appeal to anyone interested in photography, while the Glazer Children’s Museum is guaranteed to keep any young visitors entertained. The Henry B. Plant Museum is another must-visit, not only for the incredible building that it is housed in, but also for the way in which its exhibits beautifully document early tourism in Florida.

Public Parks
With plenty of sunshine throughout the year, it comes as no surprise that Tampa boasts some gorgeous public parks that are a joy to explore. Highlights include the Bok Tower Gardens, which are also a National Historic Landmark, Lettuce Lake Park, Ballast Point Park and Cypress Point Park, the latter of which has a large number of hiking trails.

There is so much to do in Tampa, and if you are only visiting for a short period of time, you need to plan your days extremely carefully so that you do not miss out on anything. From the adrenaline-pumping fun to be had at Busch Gardens, to the history, culture and art at the many Tampa museums, this is a city that offers up an endless array of things to do.

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December 23, 2016

| OROGOLD

The Los Angeles GRAMMY Museum

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The Los Angeles GRAMMY Museum was established in 2008, opening its doors in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of the Grammy Awards. In addition to preserving and telling the story of the history of the Grammy awards, the museum also celebrates award winners, with interactive exhibits designed to truly inspire each and every visitor.

Current Exhibits
One of the highlights of the museum for many visitors is the tribute to Michael Jackson, which can be found on the third floor. Some of the items that you will see on display here include a variety of artifacts from his Thriller music video, a few signature pieces, such as his fedora and gloves, and pages of sheet music, all of which give fans a chance to learn more about his legacy. Another interesting exhibit is Legends of Motown: Celebrating the Miracles, which focuses on The Miracles, the very first successful Motown recording act who became a part of musical history, paving the way for the pop music, soul, and R&B that we know and love today. Those that want to learn more about international music will appreciate the Sounds of Africa exhibit, which celebrates the diversity of African music with artists from all over Africa, from Nigeria to the Congo to Benin.

Traveling Exhibits
In order to stay current, the Los Angeles GRAMMY Museum must continue to host cutting-edge exhibitions, and this is exactly what the Travelling Exhibitions, which have been all over the world from London to New York to Paris, are. In fact, one of the museum’s most popular exhibits to date has been a Travelling Exhibit, and is on display until February 2017, meaning that you still have some time to catch it. The exhibit, entitled The Taylor Swift Experience, makes use of personal photographs, home videos and handwritten lyrics to provide a unique insight into this much-loved contemporary artist. There are also several photography Travelling Exhibits that are worth checking out, such as Sinatra 100, which features 38 framed photographs that span Frank Sinatra’s life, and Bob Dylan: Photographs by Daniel Kramer, of which there are over 50 that date between 1964 and 1965.

Upcoming Music Performances
The Los Angeles Grammy Museum hosts exciting music events throughout the year, many of them featuring Grammy stars themselves. January 2017 sees some extremely talented artists take the stage, with the Lonely Boy: Tales of a Sex Pistol with Steve Jones show already sold out. Doyle Bramhall II, a distinctive vocalist, guitarist and composer who worked with Eric Clapton for ten years, will also be performing in January, as will Eric Johnson, one of the finest electric guitarists in the world, and Silversun Pickups, who are hailed as being one of the most creative rock bands to be seen in recent years.

The Los Angeles GRAMMY Museum is a must-visit for any music fans in LA, as well as for those who want to learn more about American culture. Whether you spend some time exploring the many exhibits, or catch an iconic music performance, this is a museum that is guaranteed to widen your musical horizons.

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November 4, 2016

| OROGOLD

From Puebla to Choloula

Located just six miles west from the Mexican city of Puebla, Choloula is a city that boasts a range of unique attractions. From its Great Pyramid to its diverse churches, Choloula is a city that is steeped in history, making it a popular day trip destination for those that are visiting Puebla.

Piramide Tepanapa

Piramide Tepanapa
Famous for being the largest pyramid in the world, as well as the world’s largest monument, the Piramide Tepanapa is, without a doubt, Choloula’s most popular attraction. Also referred to as the Great Pyramid of Cholula, the pyramid can be found in the Cholula Archaeology Park, and visitors are able to walk through a 1200 foot tunnel that runs through the pyramid. The pyramid is made up of several pyramids that have been built on top of each other, and, over the years, archaeologists have dug around five miles of tunnels within the structure in order to explore it. There are guided tours available for visitors, and these will take you around some of the pyramid’s most impressive and unique features.

Museums
Being a city that is so packed with history and culture, it is no surprise that there are a number of museums in Cholula that are dedicated to preserving this. The authentically restored Franciscan Library has collections that span everything from religion to philosophy to fine art, while the Casa de la Cultura hosts temporary exhibitions and workshops that range from art to music to theater. For those who are hoping to learn more about the city itself, a visit to the Museo del Caballero Aguila is a must, as this museum offers a walking tour that showcases the history of Cholula, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history of the longest continuously occupied neighbourhood in the country, from pre-Hispanic times to the modern day.

Churches
Considering the size of Choloula, the fact that it has around 40 churches is quite impressive, and many of these are worthwhile landmarks that are both fascinating and educational to explore, boasting a variety of architectural styles. The Ex Convento de San Gabriel is one of the most popular religious sites in the city that tourists visit, as this walled garden is home to three different churches that date back to the 1500’s. This is one of the oldest churches in the city, with the rest of them dating between the 17th and 19th centuries, such as the Parish of San Pedro, the Nuestra Senora de los Remedios, and the San Francisco Acatepec.

In addition to being a beautiful historic destination, Choloula is also a university town, meaning that it is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, which is able to perfectly round off a day spent visiting the city’s cultural attractions. Whether you head off from Puebla to Choloula for just the afternoon, or decide to spend the night in the city so that you can explore it in more depth, Choloula is a destination that will teach you incredible amounts about the region’s history and past.

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October 10, 2016

| OROGOLD

Plan a City Tour of San Francisco

With so much to see and do in San Francisco, planning a tour of the city can often be quite overwhelming. However, thanks to the way in which San Francisco is so compact, it is actually very possible to see the main highlights of the city in just one day, and this itinerary will show you exactly how to do that.

Union Square
While Union Square may be steeped with history, it is best known today for being the heart of San Francisco’s shopping district. This open square is surrounded by high end boutiques, as well as a few independent stores, but be sure to keep an eye on the time so that you do not spend hours indulging in retail therapy, as there is still plenty more to see.

San Francisco Cable Cars
The San Francisco cable car system is the last manually operated cable car system in the world, and is iconic when it comes to San Francisco. The best route travels up the steep gradient of Nob Hill, passing through Chinatown before making its way down to Fisherman’s Wharf. Depending on how much time you have to spare, it could be worth disembarking at the intersection between Lombard and Hyde Streets, so that you can take a stroll along the meandering Lombard Street and enjoy the spectacular backdrop of the bay.

Touring Alcatraz
This world-famous prison is set on its very own island, and is easily accessible by a ferry, which you can board just a short walk away from Fisherman’s Wharf. The ferry ride is incredibly scenic, and once you reach the island, you can take an audio tour of prison. From touring the cell blocks to learning more about Alcatraz’s history, this is always a popular activity for those visiting San Francisco, so be sure to book your tickets for this tour well in advance.

North Beach
Also referred to as Little Italy, North Beach is home to numerous quaint Italian cafés and restaurants, and is the heart of the city’s Italian community. Columbus Avenue is worth exploring on foot, as you will be able to stop off at some of the area’s many different eclectic stores and boutiques, browsing the diverse array of goods available.

Museums
For those that want to end their day with a dose of culture, there are a few worthwhile museums that you can choose from. The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is always popular, as is the Contemporary Jewish Museum and the Museum of the African Diaspora. While you will not have time to visit them all, you can always check out current exhibits on their website before choosing the museum that appeals to you the most.

San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city, and is filled with history, culture, art and an effervescent energy. From touring the famous prison of Alcatraz to taking a stroll around the bohemian North Beach, this city tour will show you some of the very best sights that San Francisco has to offer.

Travel |

August 17, 2016

| OROGOLD

Museums of Benrath Palace

Benrath Palace, Germany

Situated in Benrath, a borough of Düsseldorf, Benrath Palace is a baroque-style palace that dates back to 1755, and, with such historic significance, has recently been proposed to be included on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The palace was originally built as a summer residence and hunting lodge, and still retains a large portion of its original design and architecture. Consisting of five main buildings, three of these each housing a museum, and extensive gardens stretching out for more than 60 hectares, along with a large lake, Benrath Palace is most definitely worth a visit when in Düsseldorf.

Museum of European Garden History
Situated in the East Wing of Benrath Palace, the Museum of European Garden History occupies an area of over 2000 square meters. Considered to be quite a unique museum, the exhibits here are focused on garden history, with many of them dating back to medieval Europe. From the life-like sculptures to the incredible paintings, this is a great opportunity to view garden art throughout the years, and for those that want even more in-depth information, there are regular lectures and guided tours also held at the museum.

Natural History Museum
While many of the major national history museums around the world may feature exhibits from all over the world, the Natural History Museum at Benrath Palace has a local focus, with a special emphasis placed on the Lower Rhine Basin and the Lower Bergisch area. Situated in the West Wing of the palace, the exhibits at the museum showcase the local flora and fauna, beginning with a brief history of the Rhine, while also paying attention to the Rhein Fisheries. Another highlight for many geological buffs is the exhibit on the Rhine floodplain, which has been at the center of many debates over the years.

Museum Corps de Logis
Located in the main building of Benrath Palace, the Museum Corps de Logis is definitely one of the highlights of the site, as it depicts what court life would have been like in the second part of the 18th century. The unique ornaments, furniture and artwork placed around the building points towards the lifestyle of those that once lived here, while the architecture and interior design are spectacularly impressive.

In addition to its three museums, Benrath Palace is also home to the Palace Park, which is divided into three different gardens; the official garden, the private garden, and the bosquet, each authentically displaying what gardens in the 18th century would have been like. The parkland is also home to an animal park, which was transformed into a hunting ground when the palace was in use, and offers quite a romantic feel to the palace’s ambiance, especially with the way in which it is framed by trees that date back 250 years. Considered to be one of the most beautiful garden palaces that was created in this time period, Benrath Palace is a must-see for those visiting Düsseldorf for the first time, as it gives you the opportunity to soak up some of the city’s unique history, culture and heritage.