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3 Compelling Reasons to Visit the National Gallery of Art in Washington

3 Compelling Reasons to Visit the National Gallery of Art in Washington

There are various reasons to visit the National Gallery of Art in Washington, its collection of paintings, prints, photos, sculpture, and decorative arts traces the development of Western Art from the Middle Ages up to the present. This includes the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the Americas and the largest mobile created by Alexander Calder. Download the National Gallery of Art in Washington Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1. Ginevra de’ Benci

The portrait of Ginevra de’ Benci is the only Leonardo da Vinci painting on public display not just in the District, but in all the Americas. The late 15th-century oil is more austere than da Vinci’s best-known portrait, made about 25 years later. There’s no hint of a smile on the face of this young woman, probably 16 and newly engaged when she posed.

2. Electronic Superhighway

Approach the tiny screen that represents the District in “Electronic Superhighway,” and you’ll see yourself live on closed-circuit TV. That’s one of many playful touches in Nam June Paik’s 40-foot-wide assemblage, which represents the United States in images fed from 50 DVD players to 335 television sets, plus that D.C. one. The screens show sweeping landscapes, iconic products and clips from Hollywood movies, all hurtling by as if glimpsed from a car racing at the speed limit.

3. Adams Memorial

There are works by Augustus Saint-Gaudens in the Smithsonian and the National Gallery of Art (the plaster version of his famous memorial to Robert Gould Shaw), but one of the most evocative of his statues isn’t in a museum, but rather in Rock Creek Cemetery. Commissioned by the great American writer Henry Adams, the Adams Memorial is a haunting, shrouded figure, set alone in a peaceful copse, a powerful memorial to Adams’s wife, who died by her own hand in 1885.

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Outstanding Reasons to Visit the Hermitage Museum in Russia

Outstanding Reasons to Visit the Hermitage Museum in Russia

The Hermitage Museum does not disappoint and it certainly lives up to its reputation. You can get lost for days just soaking up all the treasures in its 360 rooms. And to think what's on display is a mere fraction of over three million items in their collection--this amounts to a comprehensive history of Western European art. Catherine the Great, one of the greatest art collectors of all time, began the collection. Visiting the museum requires planning so download the Hermitage Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map and start now!

1. Portrait of Soler

One of the most emotive paintings from Picasso’s ‘Blue Period’, Portrait of Soler is a picture of a young man sitting alone in a café, and is widely considered a comment on loneliness and isolation within the artist’s own life. Painted in 1903, using his good friend and patron, Soleras as his model, Picasso expresses melancholy through a powerful use of color, expression, and lighting – or lack thereof.

2. St. Luke Drawing the Virgin

A significant artwork by Belgian painter Rogier van der Weyden, St Luke Drawing the Virgin portrays an artist--perhaps a self-portrait of van der Weyden himself--sketching the Virgin Mary as she cradles baby Jesus. Interestingly, the canvas was initially two separate pieces, one half owned by Tsar Nicholas I, and the other by Alexander III. If you look closely, you can still see the vertical join.

3. Head of Athena

There are a number of sculptures of Greek Goddess Athena throughout the State Hermitage Museum, but the Head of Athena is arguably the most captivating. Dating back to the 2nd century, the marble is immaculately preserved, so her powerful and wise gaze continues to be as striking as it would have been when it was created.

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Reasons why The British Museum is London's Most Visited Attraction

Reasons why The British Museum is London's Most Visited Attraction

We've talked about the MET, the MoMa, and SFMoMa, but now it's high time we talk about London's very own British Museum. Considered as the country's largest and one of the oldest museums in the world, it boasts a wondrous collection of Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, Roman, European and Middle Eastern galleries. Be among the 6.5 million visitors annually and download the British Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map now.

1.     It's Free

The British Museum in itself is a work of art. But the architecture and the pieces of rich history within its walls isn't just the reason why it draws the crowds. It isn't much of a wonder why it draws millions of visitors each year as visiting the British Museum is for free. Yes, we're not kidding here. You can enjoy a slew of the best art pieces in the world for free. If that's not enough to entice you to visit, we don't know what will.

2.      The Egyptian Rooms

See ancient mummies for yourself and if you think that's cool enough, think again. Here, you will also learn a great deal great deal of Egyptian history--from its early years of Rapid advances in the technology to the significance of death and the afterlife to Egyptians who will be in awe at every turn. If you're up for some truth in gossip, in these rooms you will also learn about Cleopatra's unbelievable true story.

3.     The Middle-Eastern Rooms

Middle-Eastern history and artifacts might be overshadowed in other museums, but in the British Museums, it is definitely one of the stars. In Room 10, for example, you will catch a glimpse at the extravagant hunting rituals of the last great Assyrian king, Ashurbanipal, who lived between 668 and around 630 B.C. The sculpted reliefs on alabaster panels that line this gallery mark the king's prowess and power.

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Top 3 Reasons to Visit Versailles Palace, the Home of French Royalty

Top 3 Reasons to Visit Versailles Palace, the Home of French Royalty

If you think France can't get any more romantic and scenic then you have got to visit Versailles Palace. Not only is the palace located in Versailles a picturesque site filled with outstanding artworks and architecture, but it also holds five centuries of history. What used to be home to the French royals until the French Revolution dates back to the 11th century. Today, It is now open as a museum and is a very popular tourist attraction. Set forth to the beautiful château with the Versailles Palace Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     The Grand Palace

The Palace has been listed for 30 years as a World Heritage and is considered one of the greatest achievements in French 17th century art. What used to be Louis XIII's old hunting pavilion was transformed and continued to be embellished by France's succeeding kings. Starting from his son, Louis XIV, who installed the Court and government within the pavilion in 1682. At present, the palace contains 2,300 rooms and its area expands to up to 63,154 square meters.

Versailles Palace travel guide for iPhone and iPad

2.      The Estate of Trianon

When the Royals needed a break from the prying eyes and ears of the public they sought refuge in the Estate Trianon. Although its construction began under Louis XIV, it's more famously for Queen Marie-Antoinette. She was known to regularly visit the Petit Trianon, where she had beautifully landscaped gardens commissioned creating a rustic atmosphere for intimate moments. Here you'll be able to see many of the estate's architectural gems.

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3.     The Royal Stables

Construction of the Great and Small stables was built under Louis XIV rule and is considered the greatest royal construction project for housing horses ever. Situated across the Palace, both stable stand at the edge of Place d’Armes. The placement and size of the Royal Stables is a testament to the importance of horses in the Ancien Régime.

 

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What to See at the Palace of Versailles, Home of French Royalty

What to See at the Palace of Versailles, Home of French Royalty

The royal palace of Versailles with its expansive gardens and massively intricate architecture is considered one of, if not the most, famous attractions in the Île-de-France region of France. Built by King Louis XIV, it has been home to three generations of French kings and queens from 1682 until the beginning of the French Revolution in 1798. As a result, each monarch was able to add new additions to the palace estate making even grander and majestic than it originally was. There is a lot see at here as the entire estate is 2,014 acres and so it's best to plan ahead. Be sure to download the Palace of Versailles Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you to maximize your trip.

1.      Estate of Trianon

Thies intimate estate is famously associated with Queen Marie-Antoinette and thus fondly called the Marie-Antoinette estate. Construction of the estate started under King Louis XIV. It was once called the "Marble Trianon" for the unique pink marbles panels that adorned the palace's facades. Marie-Antoinette is known to seek refuge and spent most of her time away from the prying eyes of the royal court in the marvelous rustic-style cottages of the Trianon. The cottages are surrounded by marvelous gardens with ornate geometric flowerbeds and tens of thousands of flowers.

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2.      Hall of Mirrors

The Hall of Mirrors is the most prominent feature at the Palace of Versailles. It was originally built as a terrace that stood between the King and Queen's bedchambers. The open-air terrace overlooking the gardens was soon remodeled due to being exposed to bad weather. When the hall was finished it served as a passageway and waiting area to impress his guests. The Treaty of Versailles, which officially brought the First World War to an end, was signed here in the Hall of Mirrors on June 28, 1919.

Versailles Travel Guide for iPhone, iPad and AppleWatch

3.      Leto’s Fountain

The palace estate has eight majestic fountains that you can visit, but one of the notable ones is the Leto's Fountain. It was inspired by The Metamorphoses by Ovide. It illustrates the story of Leto, the mother of Apollo and Diana, protecting her children from the insults of the peasants of Lycia and pleading with Jupiter to avenge her. Jupiter agrees and turns the inhabitants of Lycia into frogs and lizards. The central marble pyramid depicts Leto and her children.

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Feel NYC as a Newyorker | 3 Running routes for you

The Hudson River Run | 7km

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Though afternoons along the Hudson tend to get crowded, this route’s easy on-off access and proximity to some of the city’s best sights makes it just about the perfect route.

When to go: Early morning or early evening. During the day, there is limited shade and lots of foot traffic.

Esplanade near Battery Park

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Nelson Rockefeller Park

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Hudson River Greenway The-Hudson-River-Running-Route4


The East River Run | 26km (6 km + 20km)

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Even though this run is on the city streets, you won’t have to break your stride: The route avoids a lot of foot and car traffic. If you need them, Randall’s Island has bathrooms and water fountains What you’ll see: Waterfront views of Manhattan, Hell’s Gate Bridge, Astoria, Queensboro Bridge.

Marcus Garvey ParkThe East River Run Marcus Garvey Park

Wards Island Park The East River Run wards island park

Carl Schurz ParkThe East River Run carl schurz park

Central ParkThe East River Run Central Park

The East River Run Central Park 2


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Download this Helpful Central Park Visitor Guide


The Five Bridges Run | 25 km

[googlemaps https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zwRC8saeQSLs.k1TzzroivkwQ&w=640&h=480] The Five Bridges route criss-crosses three boroughs and is perfect for the seasoned NYC runner who is ready for a little adventure.

When to go: To avoid traffic, definitely go early weekend mornings. Sunday is best.

FDR DriveThe Five Bridges - FDR Drive

Bedford AveThe Five Bridges - Bedford Ave

Williamsburg BridgeThe Five Bridges - Williamsburg Bridge

Manhattan BridgeThe Five Bridges - Manhattan Bridge

 Brooklyn BridgeThe Five Bridges - Brooklyn Bridge


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 Sources:

http://www.nycgovparks.org/highlights/places-to-go/running

http://www.forbes.com/sites/fathom/2013/11/06/the-6-best-running-routes-in-new-york-city/

Interested in the TCS New York City Marathon?

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For everything you need to know:  http://www.tcsnycmarathon.org/

Date: November 1st 2015

Deadline: July 31, 2014


 

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Best rooftop bars in NYC!

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Le Bain

Le Bain

Sip signature cocktails as the grandeur that is New York City unfolds before you in an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the most famous skyline in the world. In the morning, see the skyscrapers glow with the rays of the eastern sun. Watch the city transform throughout the day as the sun plays delightful tricks on its majestic edifices. Then, as the sun sets between Manhattan’s towers, the city lights up before you, a dynamic multicolored canvas that looks so close, you’ll feel you can touch these world-famous landmarks: the Empire State Building, the United Nations, the Chrysler Building, the Citicorp Building – the list, like the vista, is never-ending.

The roof is the perfect spot from which to watch the myriad fireworks displays that take place along the East River year-round. Plus, each fall, cheer the runners from the New York City Marathon as they cross the Queensboro Bridge into Manhattan. Source: http://www.zhotelny.com/z-roof/

Top of the Strand

Top of the Strand

Top of the Strand, set like a jewel on the 21st floor of The Strand Hotel, is Midtown Manhattan’s most spectacular urban oasis. A retractable glass roof over the intimate rooftop lounge designed by Lydia Marks shows off the New York skyline year round. Juan Coronado, award-winning mixologist, spices up the drinks menus with seasonally rotating cocktails that feature Fashion District-inspired names like Needles & Pins and Zippers & Tonic. Coronado, a gifted cocktail innovator oversees the cocktail list at this award-winning rooftop bar.

With its friendly atmosphere, dazzling views, well-made drinks and tasty light fare, Top of the Strand is New York City’s favorite rooftop bar. Source: http://www.topofthestrand.com/

Fornino

Fornino

A pizza is much more than just its ingredients. A great pizza blends historical traditions with scientific subtleties. That's what Chef Michael Ayoub brought to Brooklyn when Fornino opened its doors in 2004. Dubbed the "First Chef of Brooklyn" by the New York Times, Ayoub draws from the Neapolitan style of pizza making while appreciating the formulaic approach to crafting pizza. The science behind Fornino's dough allows for each of our pizzas to come out perfectly every single time, no matter the day, weather, or topping. The Fornino namesake was borrowed from Ayoub's mother's maiden name, a nod to his family's history of baking through the generations.

What only four years ago was 85 acres of industrial land is now a bustling green space along Brooklyn's waterfront. Brooklyn Bridge Park is a favorite among residents and visitors alike, and now home to our newest Fornino. This location offers rooftop seating with an expansive view of the Statue of Liberty and lower Manhattan (the sunset is not to be missed!) as well as a special menu specific to this location. In addition to our signature pizza you'll find sandwiches, artisanal sodas, and ice cream. Source: http://fornino.com/

Sky Room

Sky Room

Occupying the 33rd and 34th floor of the Fairfield Inn & Suites Times Square by Marriott and the Four Points Times Square by Sheraton, the bi-level ultra lounge transports guests to a high energy oasis atop 40th Street and offers five distinct spaces: the North Terrace with its retractable roof, the South Terrace with its private cabanas, the Times Square Lounge, the Cube Balcony, and the Candlelight Lounge.

The Sky Room ® brings together five distinct spaces to give your night the perfect setting for any occasion. The South Terrace of the Sky Room includes the intimacy of private cabanas to allow guests to immerse themselves in nightlife while they get lost in conversation with friends. Each space of the Sky Room is designed to blend an amazing party atmosphere with an opulent backdrop of the New York City skyline. With a dynamic and diverse menu of food and drinks, as well as tastings, happy hour, surprises and live DJ’s, a night in the South Terrace is guaranteed to provide you and your guests with the perfect night out in the city. Source: http://skyroomnyc.com/

Upstairs NYC Rooftop Bar and Lounge

Upstairs NYC Rooftop Bar and Lounge

Our stunning penthouse level lounge sits 30 stories high atop the Kimberly Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. The new, 3000 square foot venue features three separate indoor/outdoor atmospheres, stunning interior design, retractable glass ceilings and walls, ambient heated floors and breathtaking views of the iconic Chrysler Building. Thoughtfully designed to be as elegant and inviting in the winter months as it is sunny and sophisticated in the summer season. Creative cocktails and small plates menu are served nightly. Source: http://upstairsnyc.com/index.php

VU Rooftop Bar

VU Rooftop Bar

VU Rooftop Bar Located on the 14th floor of LaQuinta Manhattan Hotel, is the perfect non-pretentious, casual rooftop escape. Formerly known as Mé Bar, VU is a favorite among K-towners. We are one of the few rooftop bars open all year! Don't worry about the cold air, we've got you covered with hot drinks, retractable awnings and heat lamps all around. VU also offers an interior space with comfy couches and TV's so you'll never miss your favorite game.

Stop by for happy hour, daily from 5-7pm and all day on Sundays. No cover charge or special dress required. If you're looking to hang with friends or meet up with colleagues, VU is the place. We're also great for tourists looking for the ultimate view of the Empire State Building. Source: www.vunyc.com/

Gansevoort Park Rooftop

Gansevoort Park Rooftop

Set twenty stories above Manhattan, Gansevoort Park Rooftop is a skyhigh oasis offering six distinct venues with unhindered views of the Empire State Building and other iconic New York architecture. Unique features include a rooftop pool, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a patio, wrap-around terraces, handcrafted mosaic tiling and customized ethereal artwork by Deborah Anderson.

The Rooftop will also offer cocktails made with organic, cold-pressed juices, in partnership with New York’s Juice Press, the city’s leading cold-pressed juice, raw food and smoothie retailer. Each handcrafted cocktail will be made fresh daily with Juice Press’ signature blends like the Ginger Fireball and 14 Hours. The Main Bar features an image displayed on a glass backlit bar, an atrium style space featuring expansive ceiling height, and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows that sweep the New York City skyline.

The rooftop Sundeck spectacularly frames the gilded spire of the New York Life Building and offers a quieter retrieve from the bustling pool below. Source: http://www.gansevoorthotelgroup.com/hotels/gansevoort-park-avenue-nyc/nightlife/gansevoort-park-rooftop-549

BAR 13

bar13

A full service venue. Now with a full kitchen. Our long-established venue is a full service bar and special events facility. With recent renovations to our sound system, Bar 13 now boasts audio designed by Paul Bell. Bar 13 has two dance floors and a roof deck. For over 15 years, we’ve been hosting memorable birthdays, film shoots and special events. Bar 13 has been part of Page Six sightings, and you’ve seen it as a location in major television and independent cinema. Bar 13 has hosted Thrillist, NBC, Goldman Sachs and others for parties and after parties. Please contact us with questions, rates and to schedule tours. Source: http://www.bar13.com/ Found in Union Square in New York City's Manhattan, Bar 13 is a three-level space that's both a lounge and a nightclub. The first floor offers the lounge experience but also a dance floor for late night revelling, while the second floor holds an even bigger dance floor, with a Rooftop Lounge at the top of the venue that also offers BBQ on Sundays, and a view of the Manhattan skyline. Source: http://www.residentadvisor.net/club.aspx?id=5980

Juliette Restaurant

Juliette Restaurant 2

Juliette’s food philosophy is one of simplicity: high quality, fresh ingredients handled minimally with respect to French traditions and techniques. Adorned with antique Parisian fixtures, furnishings and collectables, the atmosphere evokes feelings of nostalgia from a picturesque era.

The main dining room offers romantic nooks, lively bistro seating and extravagant greenery. The open-air rooftop terrace, elevated above the bustle of the streets, preserves the quaint seclusion of an intimate café. Located in the heart of Williamsburg, we provide a memorable setting within a neighborhood that continues to redefine itself.

If you are looking for a space to celebrate a special occasion with your coworkers, friends or family, our options are plentiful. Juliette’s spacious venue provides an open-air rooftop terrace and a versatile main dining room that seats 120 people. The two-floor restaurant is an ideal destination for both ceremonies and receptions, while our private Winter Garden room can also accommodate smaller parties of up to 44 people. Passed hors d’oeuvres and raw bar selections are available for cocktail parties. Prix fixe menus and family-style service are available for sit down dinners. With flexible menus and a fully stocked bar on each floor, the opportunities to craft a unique and memorable experience are endless. Source: http://juliettewilliamsburg.com/

The Delancey

The Delancey

In May of 2004, The Delancey opened its doors to a warm welcome from the lower east side. The three level club is home to a downstairs music venue, main level bar, and the only all weather rooftop garden of its kind peering out onto the Manhattan side of the Williamsburg Bridge.

The 3 floors of The Delancey can either accommodate their own individual events, or join together to become one big party. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a long luxurious bar illuminated by a candlelit ceiling. Surrounding the bar are party spaces including a chandelier lined VIP room, elegant window room, and red velvet booths which are enveloped by silky drapes. These may be reserved on a nightly basis at no charge, and the space booked for each party is based on estimated number of guests in the party. Across from the bar sits a high standing booth where resident and guest DJs spin the night away, and you can rock out to your favorite music. A quick walk up one of two rooftop staircases leads to a lush tropical open air oasis leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the city. The retractable roof allows for parties rain or shine, Summer or Winter, with another full service bar and cocktail atmosphere.

The Downstairs Performance Space is a full capacity live music venue equipped with private bar, DJ booth, backline, and state of the art light and sound system. The room accommodates a wide spectrum of events including local, national and international acts, DJs, and private parties. Source: http://thedelancey.com/#home1


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Top 5 Best Istanbul Travel Blogs

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One can go for a decent cup in Istanbul. But even the right cup of coffee can be treated wrong way so today I’d like to share a few tips that will help you enjoy Turkish coffee the way locals do.

http://www.deliciousistanbul.com/blog/2012/10/16/enjoy-turkish-coffee/#sthash.M5UV7xyq.dpuf

 

Istanbul has for a long time, been the heart and soul of Turkey. Boasting of more than 14 million official residents, the city is the only one in the world that spans two continents; Europe and Asia. I love Istanbul and admit to a major addiction for this characteristic destination.

http://turkishtravelblog.com/i-love-istanbul/

 

So you’re travelling to Istanbul and you have no idea where to begin. That’s understandable, the city is massive (it spans two continents!) and it has so much to offer in terms of mosques, markets, museums and foreign culinary delights!

 

So you’re travelling to Istanbul and you have no idea where to begin. That’s understandable, the city is massive (it spans two continents!) and it has so much to offer in terms of mosques, markets, museums and foreign culinary delights!

http://thatbackpacker.com/2013/12/09/50-things-to-do-in-istanbul-turkey/

 

Wandering Earl gets such great tips from his own readers and the locals wherever he goes, including one who said “do not miss the opportunity to eat at Ciya“. And sfter going on his own culinary tour of Istanbul he tasted some of the best food that he’s ever eaten in his life.

http://www.ytravelblog.com/sunday-spotlight-things-to-do-in-istanbul-turkey/

 

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