Exploring Dubai’s World-class Shopping

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise. It’s home to one of the largest malls in the world, has multiple shopping complexes and even has its own dedicated shopping festival. With all of these options, it can be hard to know where to even start if you’re looking to do some retail therapy. Download the Dubai Shopping Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you on your shopping sprees.

1. Dubai Mall

This is the big one – in fact, it’s one of the biggest in the world, and definitely one of the most famous. Beyond the luxury brands and fast fashion, you’ll also find a dinosaur skeleton, a massive aquarium and a beautiful fountain with an evening light show. If you’re visiting for the first time and looking to explore, we recommended a self guided tour so you can really take in the attractions of the mall.

2. Mall of the Emirates

This is another of Dubai’s most popular malls. It has plenty of excellent stores, but it is perhaps most famous for its indoor ski park, which allows shoppers to take a break by taking to the slopes. Even if you don’t know how to ski, you can still partake in the experience and simply enjoying the indoor snow. Other attractions at this mall include a bowling alley and an arcade.

3. Dragon Mart

Dragon Mart is massive. While it lacks the multiple floors of many other malls, it makes up for it thanks to its high square meter area. This mall in particular is focused on goods brought in from China and other parts of Asia. There are great deals to be had there on everything from clothes to furniture to electronics, all for comparatively lower prices.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Three Compelling Sites You Shouldn't Miss in Kakadu National Park

There's nothing like exploring the Australian outback, but we say there's truly nothing like exploring Kakadu National Park. Kakadu is a whole lot more than a national park. In just a few days you can cruise on billabongs bursting with wildlife, examine 25,000-year-old rock paintings with the help of an Indigenous guide, swim in pools at the foot of tumbling waterfalls and hike through ancient sandstone escarpment country. Download the Kakadu National Park Travel Guide and Offline Map and start exploring.

1. Ubirr

Ubirr is 39km north of the Arnhem Hwy via a sealed road. It'll take a lot more than the busloads of visitors to disturb Ubirr's inherent majesty and grace. Layers of rock-art paintings, in various styles and from various centuries, command a mesmerizing stillness. Part of the main gallery depicts images of kangaroos, tortoises, and fish. Predating these are the paintings of mimi spirits: cheeky, dynamic figures who, it's believed, were the first of the Creation Ancestors to paint on rock.

2. Cahill's Crossing

It may be small, but there can be few more dramatic frontiers in Australia. This shallow causeway, which is impassable when the tide's in, crosses the East Alligator River from Kakadu National Park on the west bank to Arnhem Land to the east. And watching you as you cross is the river's healthy and rather prolific population of saltwater crocs. If you're not going across, wander down to the slightly elevated lookout on the west bank, but go no further as crocs lie in wait right by the riverbank.

3. Injalak Arts & Crafts Centre

At this center, artists and craftspeople display traditional paintings on bark and paper, plus didgeridoos, pandanus weavings and baskets, and screen-printed fabrics; the shop is excellent and half of the sale price goes directly to the artists. Take the time to wander around and watch the artists at work. The women usually make baskets out in the shade of the trees on the center's west side, while the men paint on the verandah to the east. Some of the works come from remote outstations throughout Arnhem Land.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Why You Should Never Miss the Guggenheim Museum When Visiting the Big Apple

The Guggenheim Museum in New York houses works by art heavyweights such as Kandinsky, Picasso and Jackson Pollock. But the real draw is the temporary exhibitions by some of the great visionary artists of today. Not to mention the stunning conical white spiral in which these great artworks are displayed is reason enough to visit. Download the Guggenheim Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map to help your art outing.

1.  Woman Ironing by Pablo Picasso

During Picasso's Blue Period, he famously depicted peasants, laborers, beggars and other downtrodden folks in shades of blue. Though this long-limbed, hunched woman is shown in grays and blacks, she represents that same period of gloom. It's a kind of metaphor for the poor in general, the forever oppressed.

2. "Untitled” by Mark Rothko

This classic Mark Rothko piece was painted between 1952 and 1953 and features his iconic large-scale blocks of bright colors. Rothko, an American artist, is one of the central figures of the New York School, who creates his abstract pieces to illicit “basic human emotions — tragedy, ecstasy, doom, and so on,” from the audience, according to Rothko himself.

3. “The Renowned Orders Of The Night” by Anselm Kiefer

Anselm Kiefer was born in Germany just before the end of World War II, and many of his artworks explore the themes surrounding war, as well as the rise of fascism. This piece, entitled “The Renowned Orders Of The Night,” features the artist himself lying on a bed of dry, cracked earth, as if he were a corpse, under a vast starry sky. In his later artworks, Kiefer became obsessed with the night sky, and he created a few different artworks exploring its beauty.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

What to See in London's Renowned Tate Modern

This modern and contemporary art gallery is known to be one of London's most amazing attractions. What used to be Bankside Power Station on the South of the Millenium Bridge was revamped into what is now known as Tate Modern. The mesmerizing synthesis of modern art and industrial brick design brings about an extraordinarily successful in bringing challenging work to the masses. Download the Tate Modern Travel Guide and Offline Map now and start exploring.

1. Marilyn Diptych

Andy Warhol is a household name in the world of art, and this piece on Marilyn Monroe is eerily more relevant in today’s picture and pop-obsessed culture than ever before. Made in the months following the star’s death, Warhol combines ideas of finitude and the cult of celebrity by repeating the same image of the starlet with a gradual fade out that hints at mortality as it is contrasted with the acid bright images on the left.

2. Nude Woman With Necklace

One of Picasso’s best-known works, this colorful portrait bursts with unbridled energy and life. It depicts Picasso’s second wife, Jacqueline Roque, and her enigmatic facial expression is full of enough mystery to rival the Mona Lisa – she is at once vulnerable and defiant. The complexity of her portrait and the chaotic figuring of the body as simultaneous landscape and natural energies encapsulate the turbulent nature of their marriage.

3. Spatial Concept ‘Waiting’

Modern art famously challenges traditional artwork, forcing the viewer to scratch the surface and consider the true nature of artistic representation. Perhaps no work does so more simply and effectively than Spatial Concept ‘Waiting’, which presents the viewer with a boldly slashed canvas and asks them to reflect on the nature of the image and the materiality of the painting.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Top 3 Must-sees in Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy

The U-shaped Palazzo degli Uffizi was built between 1560 to 1580 that was used to house government offices. Today, it houses the world's greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art. The collection, which was originally the Medici family's private collection, was bequeathed to the city in 1743. The expansive collection contains some of Italy's best-known paintings. Download the Uffizi Gallery Travel Guide and Offline Map and discover art at its finest.

1.     Tuscan Masters: 13th to 14th Centuries

As you arrive in the Primo Corridoio on the second floor, you will be greeted by Rooms 2 to 7, which are dedicated to pre- and early Renaissance Tuscan art. Among the 13th-century Sienese works displayed in Room 2 are three large altarpieces from Florentine churches by Duccio di Buoninsegna, Cimabue, and Giotto. These clearly reflect the transition from the Gothic to the nascent Renaissance style.

2.      Renaissance Pioneers

Florence's victory over the Sienese at the Battle of San Romano, near Pisa, in 1432, is brought to life with outstanding realism and increased use of perspective in Paolo Uccello's magnificent Battaglia di San Romano in Room 8. In the same room, don't miss the notable Madonna con Bambino e due angeli (Madonna and Child with Two Angels) by Fra' Filippo Lippi, a scandalous Carmelite monk who married a nun from Prato.

3.     Botticelli Room

The spectacular Sala del Botticelli is one of the Uffizi's most visited rooms. Of the 18 Botticelli works displayed in the Uffizi in all, the iconic La nascita di Venere (The Birth of Venus), Primavera (Spring) and Madonna del Magnificat (Madonna of the Magnificat) are the best known by the Renaissance master known for his ethereal figures.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

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.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Prado Museum, the Window the Spanish Soul

Being in awe when visiting Prado Museum is considered an understatement. Don't take out word for it, go see it yourself! With more than 7,000 paintings in their collections. What was once a grand palace now turned museum, it is a must see when visiting if you ever make your way to Madrid. And how can you not when the city itself is already filled with so much culture and beautiful art in itself. So what are you waiting for? Download the Prado Museum Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1.     History

The neoclassical Palacio de Villanueva was completed in 1785 and what is now the museum's Western Wing. It was originally born as a house of science and later became a barracks for Napoleon's cavalry troops. The building itself is already beaming with history. In 1814, King Fernando VII decided to use the palace as a museum. Five years later the Museo del Prado opened with 311 Spanish paintings on display.

2.      Goya

Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes is a staple name in the Prado Museum. His work can be found on all three floors of the Prado. In Room 65, Goya’s El dos de mayo and El tres de mayo rank among Madrid’s most emblematic paintings as they bring to life the 1808 anti-French revolt and subsequent execution of insurgents in Madrid. Alongside, in Rooms 67 and 68, are some of his darkest and most disturbing works, Las pinturas negras with their dark browns and black and distorted animalesque appearance of their characters.

3.     Velázquez

Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Velázquez is another of the grand masters of Spanish art who brings so much distinction to the Prado. Of all his works, Las meninas (Room 12) is what most people come to see. Completed in 1656, it is more properly known as La família de Felipe IV (The Family of Felipe IV). The rooms surrounding Las meninas contain more fine works by Velázquez with his paintings of various members of royalty--Felipe II, Felipe IV, Margarita de Austria, El Príncipe Baltasar Carlos and Isabel de Francia on horseback.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Outstanding Reasons Why the Hague is a Must-visit in the Netherlands

There's more to the Hague than its prestigious history of being the seat of power of not just the Netherlands, but the United Nations itself. As the third largest city in the country you can expect embassies, mansions, stately boulevards and among it a lively culture of fine museums, quaint cafes, and even a long stretch of beach. You will often see a throng of locals, expats, and tourists alike mingle in its loud and active kitsch. Download the Hague Travel Guide and Offline Map to learn about this outstanding city.

1.     Binnenhof

What was once used for executions back in the day, the Binnenhof's central courtyard is now surrounded by parliamentary buildings. The awe-inspiring 17th-century North Wing is home to the Upper Chamber of the Dutch Parliament, while the Lower Chamber used to meet in the ballroom that can be found in the 19th-century wing. Today, it adjoins the old and the new with the addition of a modern building on the South side. The highlight of the Binnenhof is its 13th-century Ridderzaal.

2.      Mauritshuis

A treasure trove of Dutch and Flemish art, the Mauritshuis is an exemplary museum that should not be missed while in Hague. What was once an old palace has had an addition of modern wings through the years. Among its masterpieces on display is Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring, Rembrandts including a wistful self-portrait from the year of his death, 1669, and The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp.

3.     Haagse Toren

Who doesn't love panoramic views of cities below from high up above? Be whisked up to the 42nd floor of this 135-meter building in merely 40 seconds. The city's second-tallest building offers an outstanding view of the city even from just the elevator. Of course, if you're afraid of heights be warned, as the elevators are made of glass. It's well worth it though as once you reach the top you will be greeted with panoramas that extend up to 45 kilometers and as far as Rotterdam.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Top 3 Chateaus You Must Visit in Loire Valley

Loire Valley is considered so beautiful that kings, queens, dukes, and nobles came to establish castles and palaces in its fertile river valley. So it comes as no surprise that you will be greeted with extravagant fortresses in every corner of this jaw-dropping valley. These fortresses are surrounded by villages and vineyards so expect sumptuous food and wine to go with the great agrarian views.  Download the Loire Valley Travel Guide and Offline Map and see the entire splendor yourself.

1.     Chateau de Chenonceau

Spanning the Cher River the Chenonceau is one of France's most elegant châteaus. Sitting atop a gracefully arched bridge it is surrounded formal gardens and its magical architecture reflecting its colorful history of being shaped by a series of powerful women. As a result, it is nicknamed Le Château des Dames. Fabulous art fills the interiors. Works by Tintoretto, Correggio, Rubens, Murillo, Van Dyck and Ribera are among the many artworks.

2.      Chateau de Chambord

One of the notable achievements of the French Renaissance architecture, the Château de Chambord boasts 440 rooms, 356 fireplaces, and 84 staircases. It is by far the largest and grandest château in the Loire Valley. Construction began in 1519 by François and was initially built as a weekend hunting lodge. But it quickly grew into more than just that and turned into one of the most expensive architectural projects by a French monarch.

3.     Chateau Royal de Blois

Blois is indeed the epitome of royal living as seven French kings lived in the chateau. Its four grand wings were built during the four distinct periods in French architecture: Gothic, Flamboyant Gothic, early Renaissance, and classical. Make sure to set aside half-a-day to be able to truly immerse yourself in the chateau's dramatic and bloody history and its extraordinary architecture. One of its features that you must visit is the richly painted Hall of the States-General, from the 13th century.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

The Ultimate Foodie Guide to San Sebastian

Oh, San Sebastian, one of the dreamiest cities in the world. It's so dreamy, that it's definitely very hard to resist falling in love with it at first glance. Its charm doesn't only lie in its spectacular landscape, but in its culture of indulgence--especially in food. Its tapa culture is unparalleled anywhere else in Spain and Michelin stars being given left and right to its restaurants. It is often a city that tops lists of the world's best places to eat. Foodie or not, download the San Sebastian Travel Guide and Offline Map and expect to be blown away.

1.     Parque de Cristina Enea

The hustle and bustle of San Sebastian might be too overwhelming for the faint hearted--there's just so much to see and so much to eat! Thank goodness, there is the Parque de Cristina Enea. Created by the Duke of Mandas in honor of his wife, the park is the considered to be the local’s favorite escapes. It is home to a variety of plants and even ducks and peacocks roam the open lawns. It is definitely an oasis in the middle of busy San Sebastian.

2.      Playa de la Concha

Probably the most iconic beach in San Sebastian and rightfully so. All summer long, a fiesta atmosphere prevails in Playa de la Concha. Asides from sunning and swimming, here you can also marvel at the beautiful beachside sceneries. On one side of the bay you will find the Urgull Mountain and on the other side of the bay, you will find the Igueldo Mountain. How many beaches out there can give you such magnificent views?

3.     Pintxo Bar Hopping

San Sebastian is known to be the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants per capita. And for good reason, culturally the people of San Sebastian enjoy food so much that you’ll literally find Pintxo Bras in every nook and cranny. The streets of the Old Town of San Sebastian are packed with these bars and it the best place to start your Pintxo tour. Each bar offers several different plates; after all, like everything else, Pintxos are never created equal.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Adventures in Santiago de Compostela, Spain's Famed Pilgrimage Site

Situated in the far north-west of Spain in the region of Galicia, Santiago de Compostela is a famous pilgrimage site. It symbolizes the Spanish Christian's struggle against Islam. At the end of the 10th century, the Muslims destroyed the city and was later rebuilt in the following century. It is declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site not only for its rich history but also for its Gothic and Baroque architecture. Pack your bags and head over there with the Santiago de Compostela Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

The city's cathedral plays an important role in Christianity. It is said to be the burial place of Saint James the Great himself, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. The cathedral has been a place of pilgrimage since the early Middle Ages and marks the end of the pilgrimage route. The architecture itself is marvellous in its own right with a Romanesque structure, with later Gothic and Baroque additions.

2.      Museum of Galician People

The former 17th to 18th-century Convent of Santo Domingo de Bonaval house the Museum of Galician People that opened in 1977. The museum showcases the Galician culture with different rooms dedicated to the sea, trades, the land, clothes, music, the living environment, and architecture. It also has two sections dedicated to archaeology, painting, and sculpture. The museum owns a great collection of traditional costumes, laces, even musical instruments.

3.     Monte do Gozo

The Hill of Joy or what locals call Monte do Gozo is a hill in Santiago de Compostela and it is the first place where pilgrims get their first view of the spires of their final destination--the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. By tradition, this is also where the pilgrims cry out in rapture upon seeing their final destination. Monte de Gozo is about three kilometers outside the city and you may hike up to the top or alternatively and the more popular choice among visitors, cycle to the top.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Museum Hopping in Paris, the Art Capital of France

Paris, the city of love, but did you also know it's hailed as the capital city of art in France? This city alone is home to about 200 or so museums. With that being said any art lover would never be able to resist Paris' charm. But with that many museums and not enough time to spend in this lovely city, we give you three absolutely unmissable museums. So what are you waiting for? Get that itinerary ready and don't forget to download the Paris Museums Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     The Louvre

Probably the most iconic museum in Paris and for good reason. It's the world's largest museum and considered a city within the city. Not only is it filled to the brim with artistic glories the museum itself is a masterpiece in its own right. It houses over 35,000 works of art and artifacts from the Egyptians, Etruscans, Greeks, and Romans. The main draw of the museum is its painting and sculpture collection. It is in fact, home to the famous Mona Lisa.

2.      Musée d’Orsay

Imagine a museum set in an old train station dating back the 1900's. Well, imagine no more because Musée d’Orsay’s is exactly just that. This quaint museum houses an enormous collection of works by Delacroix, Monet, Courbet, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec and many others. In 2011, the museum reopened its most important rooms that are dedicated to the artworks of Courbet and Van Gogh. If you ever need a break from walking around stop by its submarine themed cafe tucked behind a clock designed by the Campana brothers.

3.     Musée du Quai Branly

If you've already gotten your fill of European art then head over to the Musée du Quai Branly. This museum is uniquely surrounded by lush greenery and nestled on the banks of the Seine. It's dedicated to the ethnic art of Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas. Artifacts on display include a tenth-century anthropomorphic Dogon statue from Mali, Vietnamese costumes, Gabonese masks, Aztec statues, Peruvian feather tunics, and rare frescoes from Ethiopia.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Three Reasons Why You Should Visit Romantic Road in Germany

During the medieval times, the route was a trade route that connected the center of Germany with the south. Today this region is thought by many international travelers to possess "quintessentially German" scenery and culture. The Romantic Road is a "theme route" devised by promotion-minded travel agents in the 1950's. It describes the 350 kilometers of highway between Würzburg and Füssen linking numerous picturesque towns and castles. Enjoy the scenic route with The Romantic Road Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the most famous castles in the world or also knows as the Sleeping Beauty Castle, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.3 million visitors annually. The 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria. The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat until he died in 1886.

2.      The Wieskirche Church

The Wieskirche is also one of the most famous works from the Rococo period of art and architecture. Locates in the foothills of the Alps it was designed in the late 1740s by brothers J. B. and Dominikus Zimmermann. It is one of the most important places of pilgrimage in southern Germany. It also lies close to other religious attractions like the Oberammergau and the Passion Play making the Wieskirche Church a great stop along The Romantic Road.

3.     Lake Constance

Lake Constance is the biggest lake in Germany. Lying below the northern edge of the Alps it borders Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. It offers a jaw dropping scenery along its 270-kilometer shoreline. The largest and deepest part of the lake, the Obersee, extends from Bregenz Bay to Konstanz and is lined by numerous old lakeside towns and attractive villages with incredible views of the Swiss Alps.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Exploring the Great Outdoors at Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is the epitome of the great outdoors. A 1,583-square mile wilderness area in the Rocky Mountains of Montana, with glacier-carved peaks and valleys running to the Canadian border. It has more than 700 miles of hiking trails where you will see a diverse wildlife ranging from mountain goats to grizzly bears. The park also offers a variety of activities like hiking, cycling, and camping. Explore the great outdoors with the Glacier National Park Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Going-to-the-Sun Road

As one of the park's highlights driving through Going-to-the-Sun Road should definitely not be missed. The spectacular 50-mile road was completed in 1932 and spans with the width of the entire Glacier National Park and crossing the Continental Divide at 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass. It passes through almost every type of terrain in the park where there are scenic viewpoints and pullouts so motorists can stop for extended views and photo opportunities.

2.      Goat Haunt

One of the more tranquil locations in the park, Goat Haunt provides you with an escape from the stresses of life. Cut trees may mark the International Boundary between the United States and Canada, but it is a place where the plants and animals here do not; they cross freely, as this is one large ecosystem and peaceful political boundaries do not affect the native flora and fauna.

3.     Lake McDonald Valley

On the west end of Glacier National Park is Lake McDonald Valley. The valley presents a wide variety of activities for you to experience. Once occupied by massive glaciers that carved this area thousands of years ago, the valley is now filled with spectacular sights, hiking trails, diverse species of plants and animals, historic chalets, and the grand Lake McDonald Lodge. Ten miles long and nearly 500 feet deep, Lake McDonald is the largest lake in the park.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Top Three Reasons to Visit Bergen, the City of Unparalleled Scandinavian Views

This picturesque southwestern, Norwegian city is surrounded by mountains and fjords, including the country's longest and deepest fjords, the Sognefjord. Bergen is home to many colorful houses that line the old wharf that was once a center of the Hanseatic League's trading empire. This is definitely a city for adventures and mountain lovers as it's filled with hiking trails that offer sweeping views once you get to the top. Check out the Bergen Travel Guide and Offline Map and get ready for your next adventure.

1.     Bryggen

Bryggen is a series of Hanseatic commercial buildings that line the eastern side of the Vågen harbor. In 1979, Bryggen was established as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage. The Bryggen itself is more than just the colorful buildings lining its wharf, in 1070 the city of Bergen was established in the Bryggen and in 1350 a Kontor of the Hanseatic League was established there. Today, it houses museums, shops, restaurants, and pubs.

2.      KODE

KODE showcases one of the largest art and design collections in the entire Scandinavia region. The museum itself consists of four buildings, each holding its own focus. KODE 1 houses a national silver collection and the renowned Singer art collection; KODE 2 is for contemporary exhibitions; KODE 3 majors in Edvard Munch; and KODE 4 focuses on modern art. The four buildings stand on the edge of Lille Lungegård lake and also house the fabulous Lysverket restaurant and a lovely cafe, Smakverket.

3.     Fløyen Mountain

It isn't a surprise why Fløyen is one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. The outstanding view of the city from atop the mountain is unbeatable. At 399 meters above sea level, it looks over the Bergen city center. It has a funicular system that transports passengers from the center of Bergen to a height of 320 meters in roughly 8 minutes and the highest point (425 meters) on Fløyfjellet is approximately 1 kilometer to the northeast.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

The Best Places to See in Toledo, the Walled City of Spain

Toledo is a testament to Spain's diverse history where you see churches, synagogues, and mosques stand together in its historic quarter. Sitting atop a gorge overlooking the Río Tajo, it was known as the ‘city of three cultures’ in the Middle Ages, a place where Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities peacefully coexisted. It is also a city rich in stunning countryside views and is known to be El Greco's inspiration for his paintings, which are on display around the city. Enjoy this wondrous city with the Toledo Travel Guide and Offline Map on hand.

1.      Alcázar Fortress

At the highest point in the city emerges through the imposing Alcázar. The stone fortification was once used as a Roman palace in the third century and was then restored under Charles I and his son Philip II of Spain in the 1540's. Once the court moved to Madrid, Alcázar it eventually became a military academy. It is a place that indeed stands the test of time. In the 1930's the fortress was heavily damaged during the siege of the garrison by loyalist militias at the start of the civil war. Today, it is reopened as a vast military museum.

2.      Museo de Santa Cruz

Can you imagine a hospital that boasts an ornate plateresque portico that welcomes you into a series of with six cradles that intersect forming four courtyards? Well, Museo de Santa Cruz was exactly just that. The 16th-century building is a work of art that was built to centralize assistance to orphaned and abandoned children in the city. Now it houses beautiful arts and ceramics with various sculpture exhibits on display.

3.      Cathedral

The Toledo Cathedral is one of the most notable cathedrals in Spain. In fact, it ranks among the top 10 cathedrals in the country. The illustrious building is an impressive example of medieval Gothic architecture. Its enormous interior is full of the rose windows, flying buttresses, ribbed vaults, and pointed arches, which are classic pieces of the style. The cathedral is an art gallery by its own right, with displays of old masters such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco himself.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Best places to to put your feet on at the Amalfi Coast!

Italy has become one of Europe's most popular Summer destinations and with beauties like the Amalfi Coast, it's really no surprise as to why. With its steep, picturesque cliffs, and sparkling views that's been considered an outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape by UNESCO, it has fast become one of Italy's most popular destinations. And you've probably seen it all over social media these days as there are picture perfect moments at every turn. Download the Amalfi Coast Travel Guide and Offline City Map and start planning your next Summer escapades.

1.      Positano

This famed Italian destination is every photographer and travel blogger's dream. The village is home to tiny, winding roads that run down to the sea and are lined with restaurants, shops, and a cascade of pastel-colored boutiques and hotels. It's the most photogenic town you'll ever see. Positano is a popular destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway as well as families and groups stopping through on day tours. Spend hours wandering the winding roads of the village and explore the beach path that hugs the mountainside and ends up at the watch tour castles. Every turn brings something new and exciting into view. As you meander through Positano, the charm of this otherworldly town is intoxicating.

2.      Amalfi Cathedral

You might ask yourself why Amalfi, for such a small place, has its fair share of monuments, not least the spectacular cathedral. It was, of course, one of the four powerful Maritime Republics and established many commercial relationships not least with traders from the Orient. The Cathedral complex is formed of the 'Cloister of Paradise', the 'Basilica of the Crucifix', which houses the Museum, the 'Crypt of St. Andrew' and the Cathedral. Concealing the original Romanesque church, the Baroque interior we see today dates from the early 18th century as do a number of paintings celebrating St. Andrew. Look out for a canvas by Andrea D’Asta on the main altar showing St. Andrew on the Cross. Two superb antique granite columns from Paestum support the triumphal arch of the main apse.

3.      Amalfi Paper Museum

Located in an ancient XIV century medieval paper-mill, along the road to the Ferriere Valley, Amalfi's Paper Museum is, no doubt, one of the most original museums on the Amalfi coast. It was founded in 1969 by Nicola Milano, owner of the paper-mill and member of one of the most famous families working in the paper production. It hosts machineries and instruments used in the ancient paper-mills. The ancient technologies, restored and active, reconstruct the entire production cycle of the paper. Among the century-old tools in the Museum it is possible to admire the ancient wooden mauls, operated by an hydraulic wheel, the press used to remove the water in excess from the paper, the continuous printing machine and the Dutch machine.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Barcelona’s Architectural Masterpiece - Sagrada Familia – Must See!

Whether your time in Barcelona revolves around a layover, weekend away or a longer break, the one thing you cannot miss during your time in the Catalan capital is a visit to the Sagrada Familia. One of the most magnificent churches in the world, this amazing creation comes from the mind of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. The church is still a work in progress even though construction began in 1882 and is expected to finish in 2026--that’s 100 years after Gaudi's death. Tour this magnificent masterpiece with the Sagrada Familia Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      The Size, Detail, and Craftsmanship

Towering over its neighboring buildings, the Sagrada Familia is epic in scale. When complete it will have an impressive 18 spires, according to Gaudi's design, and will be the tallest church in the world. Outside the grand facade's intricate designs cover the walls in their entirety, with different styles being embraced in the telling of Christ's birth, life, and death. Visitors pass under the tree of life, with animals and wildlife to be spotted wherever you look and throughout the church areas are dedicated to everything from saints to sins. Inside the columns of the church are designed to look like trees and branches, and the roof so intricately designed you would want to stare at it for hours.

2.      The Stained Glass Windows

The stained glass brings the building to life, with rainbows of light showering down onto the walls and columns all around you. They really have to be seen to be believed. They are considered an essential feature of the church. Gaudi gave them the same expressive intricacy as the architecture of the carvings. And if you love it enough, you can even pay to have a pane of glass added with your own name on it.

3.      The View from the Top

The panoramic view of Barcelona will blow you away. The way the blue ocean from the Barcelona beach from afar contrasted with the orange glow of the church and the cityscape is worth mustering up your courage to defy your fear of heights, if you have one that is. The spectacular view is definitely a must-see for Barcelona first-timers and frequent visitors alike.

Learn more about other destinations that offer unique experiences by checking out eTips.

Reasons to Visit Budapest, the Explorer’s Paradise!

Visiting Budapest? Check out Budapest Travel Guide and Offline City Map. Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is also referred to as a paradise for explorers as one could find something interesting at every turn. The city is jam-packed with cool cafes, hipster hotels, and countless structures with grand and exciting architecture. Below are just a few of the many reasons!

1. It's affordable

Budapest is one of the cheapest tourist destinations in Europe. Your 3-day budget for other cities can last for more than a week on this one. Hotels, cafes, and pubs are everywhere and the tight competition makes the prices of their products and services quite consumer friendly.

2. Marvelous design

Numerous structural marvels are spread all around Budapest. Most popular ones are:

• Kiosk, Március – a former gymnasium converted into a bar and grill. It offers authentic Hungarian cuisine with an amazing view of the Danube. The interior is filled with remarkable items such as exposed brickwork, side tables made from oil drums, banquette seating made from alive leather lined with copper plates, light bulb clusters, and a real-looking faux tree planted at the heart of the bar. The mouthwatering smell of grilling is also a welcome bonus.
• Mazel Tov – an old courtyard transformed into a modern ruin pub. It has a glass roof light and a garden at the back and serves affordable Middle Eastern dishes.
• Menza – this eatery will take you back to the 70’s with its oversized plastic and copper pendant lighting, lurid ceilings, and loud, abstract floral walls. It serves simple and extremely affordable food.

3. Coveted filming location

Budapest is one of the most popular filming locations in Europe thanks to its distinctive Mitteleuropean atmosphere. It is a place where the chances of running into a world famous actor or an active film set is quite high.

4. The café culture

The rich café culture can already be enough justification to visit Budapest. It is the most populated city in Hungary and cafes are the primary means of satisfying the populace’s need for food and drinks.

Budapest Cafe City. Don't miss one

5. The thermal baths

The mineral-rich thermal baths offer quite a unique experience and the Szechenyi Thermal Baths is the most popular. Chill your afternoon away and wander at:

• painted mint green changing rooms
• black and white tilted floors
• 15 indoor pools
• 3 outdoor pools
• 10 saunas and steam chambers

Budapest Thermal Baths. Relax and enjoy!

These are just a small sample of the numerous reasons you should visit Budapest. To know more, check out eTips.

Travel Basics in London

Awesome modern London skyline

If you're coming to London for the first time London Travel Guide and Offline City Map & Metro Support has some important things for you to remember and save yourself a little bit of embarrassment and make your trip to London easier.

The Brits drive on the left side of the road. Now, if you're not driving this may not seem like a big deal but actually when you're crossing the street that's when it's the scariest. Luckily the smarties in London put markings on the ground at every single crossing telling you literally if you should look left or look right, so make sure that when you're going to cross the street- you look down to see which way you should look.

Next is, if you decide to go to a pub and order yourself a beer or a cider, which I definitely recommend you do, you'll need to order by the pint. It's about 20 oz of drink. Remember that a lot of English beers and ciders are stronger than in America so just be careful when you're drinking. When you get the bill, double check to see if there was a service charge added on because usually this is around 12.5% if there is a service charge added.

England uses the pound, as its currency makes up one pound and if you ever hear someone saying quid, this is just a slang word for pound. The smallest note you can get is 5 pounds- there's no one pound note here.

You should try Oyster card. There are two different kinds of Oyster cards you can get, one is called a Visitor's Oyster Card that you can only get this if you order it ahead of time and get it delivered to your house or you can get a regular Oyster card which you can pick up at tons of shops around London. To use either of these Oyster cards, you need to top them up which means you add credit to the card as you start to use the underground and the bus system. Your credit will decrease and you'll have to top it up more and more if you're going to be traveling a lot.

Enjoy the beautiful dusk of London

Having an Oyster card is really good because the rates are a lot cheaper than if you paid cash and they have a daily cap which means, once you've reached a certain amount of money that you've spent, that's it and the rest of your travel is free for the day.

Classic English double decker buses are really fun to ride around on, if you can grab a seat on the top and especially in the front of the bus, it's really cool! To get on a bus all you have to do is tap your Oyster card at the front of the bus and that's it, you don't have to tap out.

If you need to change your cash into pounds then you'll probably get the best rate at the post office. Be careful taking black taxis because they can be really expensive and they get really expensive without you noticing. If you can't take public transport, use Uber all the time. They're all over the place!

Those are just few important things you should know before you come to London for the first time! Make sure that you read more of our eTips guidelines to know more places          all around the world!