Kuala Lumpur: A City for the Culturally Inclined

Malaysia’s capital is a great example of a cultural melting pot. Amidst its majestic mosques, modern skyscrapers,  Kuala Lumpur’s mix of cultures, Indian, Malay, Chinese, and Western, creates a unique blend of food, shopping, and nightlife. Download the Kuala Lumpur Travel Guide and Offline Map and start planning your trip to his invigorating city.

1.     Islamic Arts Museum

Stepping inside the Islamic Arts Museum is like inside a treasure trove. The building itself is every bit as impressive as the collection it houses. It showcases Islamic decorative arts from around the world. Here you’ll find scale models of the world’s best Islamic buildings, gorgeous textiles, carpets, jewelry, and calligraphy-inscribed pottery.

2.     Kampung Baru

It seems like time stood still in this neighborhood filled with rows of traditional Malay wooden houses, village life unfolds despite the surrounding skyscrapers. Kampung Baru’s low-slung charms are best showcased as you wander its streets. Along the way be sure to stop by and enjoy tasty home-cooked Malay food at the many roadside cafes and stalls.

3.     Petronas Towers

Resembling two twin rockets shooting from up the ground, the Petronas Towers is the perfect presentation for the rise of the city to the 21st-century metropolis that it is now. Purchase tickets for a 45-minute tour that take you in the Skybridge connection on the 41st floor and the observation deck on the 86th floor at 370 meters above ground.

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Epic Adventures in New Zealand’s Outback

Scattered all over New Zealand are sublime forests, mountains, lakes, beaches and fiords that have made NZ one of the best hiking destinations on the planet. With just 4.8 million New Zealanders scattered across 268,021 sq km, prepare for mammoth national parks, a dynamic local culture, and world-class surfing and skiing. Whether you're looking for a chill and relaxing vacation or an action-packed one, New Zealand has got you covered. Download the New Zealand Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1. Abel Tasman National Park

If there's one National Park you shouldn't miss out on that's Abel Tasman National Park. It's definitely every adventurers dream come true blanketing the northern end of a range of marble and limestone hills that extend from Kahurangi National Park. Various tracks in the park include an inland route, although the Coast Track is what everyone is here for--it's New Zealand's most popular Great Walk.

2. Rotorua

Welcome to "Sulphur City"--New Zealand's most dynamic geothermal area where steam casually wafts out of the drains and mud boils in public parks. The sulphur-rich air and all its springs might be one of its draws, but the city is also hailed for its dynamic Māori culture. The Māori revered this place, naming one of the most spectacular springs Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters). Today 34% of the population is Māori, with cultural performances and traditional hāngi (steam-cooked banquets) as big an attraction as the landscape itself.

3. Milford Sound

Rising above the fiord's indigo water is Mitre Peak and has become the subject of millions of photographs for good reason. Scoured into the bare rock are pathways from tree avalanches, where entangled roots dragged whole forests down into darkly glittering water. Today, tapering to a cloud-piercing summit, the 1692m-high mountain appears. When rain comes (and that’s often), dozens of temporary waterfalls curtain the cliffs. Stirling and Lady Bowen Falls gush on in fine weather, with rainbows bouncing from their mists when sunlight strikes just right.

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Orlando, More Than Just Its Theme Parks

Who say can’t have a great time in Orlando without visiting a theme park? More often than not visitors overlook exploring downtown city Orlando. Aside from the world famous Disney and Universal theme parks, the Orlando area is home to a number of beautiful parks, interesting museums, great local restaurants and shops, a handful of waterfront attractions, entertaining shows, and much more. Download the Orlando Travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1.     Tibet-Butler Nature Preserve

Orlando’s small 440 acre nature preserve allows visitors to take a glimpse into the natural scenery of Florida. Take this opportunity to escape the crowds and intense heat of the afternoon sun for a relaxing and shady walk through this quiet preserve. Peaceful views of Lake Tibet-Butler along with beautiful flat-woods and wetlands provide the perfect setting for a scenic stroll.

2.     Silver Springs State Park

Silver Springs State Park in Ocala is famous for its’ glass bottom boat rides, one of Florida’s oldest tourist attractions. Here you will have an opportunity to take an exciting narrated ride across the largest artesian springs formation in the world. The transparent bottom of the boat allows you to see all different types of fish and plant life. Be sure to keep an eye out for the occasional gator sighting on the banks.

3.     Silver Moon Drive In

In Lakeland, just an hour drive from Orlando, you will find one of the last remaining drive-in theaters in the area. This drive-in is one of the cleanest and most affordable around. Double features are only 5 bucks a person, and on occasional weekends you may even be able to see 3 features for one low price. Treat yourself to some old-fashioned fun; what a nice classic activity to enjoy year-round!

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Expect the Unexpected in Bilbao, Spain

Alluring architecture, an unexpected dining culture, and stunning landscapes that surround the city center; Bilbao is one of the marvelous hidden gems of the Basque Country. What once was an industrial city has transformed into a city of art after the unveiling of Frank Gehry’s shimmering titanium-clad Guggenheim museum. Download the Bilbao Travel Guide and Offline Map to get to know this unexpected city of beauty.

1.     Museo Guggenheim Bilbao

It’s hard to imagine a more mesmerizing sight than the shimmering titanium Museo Guggenheim Bilbao. It is definitely one of modern architecture’s most iconic buildings. Frank Gehry’s work helped lift Bilbao out of its post-industrial depression and catapulted it into the 21st century forefront. It sparked the city’s inspired regeneration, stimulated further development, and placed Bilbao in the international art and tourism spotlight.

2.     Bilbao Old Quarter

Bilbao’s atmospheric old quarter, Casco Viejo, may be compact but it is brimming with charming streets, boisterous bars, plenty of quirky and indie shops that will keep you busy for hours. The original seven streets date back to the 1400’s, so expect a lot of photogenic, colorful houses that line the main streets. The 14th-century gothic Catedral de Santiago has a splendid Renaissance portico and pretty little cloister you should not miss visiting.

3.     Basilica de Begoña

Towering over Casco Viejo from atop a nearby hill is this 16th-century basilica. It’s mainly Gothic in look, although there are still touches of Renaissance such as the arched main entrance, crept in during its century-long construction. The austere vaulted interior gleams by a gold altarpiece which contains a statue of the Virgin Begoña, the patron saint of Biscay.

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The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music in Salzburg

Some come here for the legendary Mozart. Some come for a more recent musical legacy, The Sound of Music. Either way, one thing is for sure, people stay for its spellbinding beauty. This city in north-central Austria is not only known for its musical legacies, but also for being the epitome of Baroque architecture, which is very much evident in the streets of old town. Nestles bedside the fast-flowing Salzach River, this wondrous city gives you spectacular views of beautiful spires and domes, a formidable clifftop fortress from a distance, and the endearing mountains from afar. So what are you waiting for? The music is calling! Download the Salzburg Travel Guide and Offline Map now.

1.      Festung Hohensalzburg

The city’s most visible icon is this mighty, 900-year old-old cliff-top fortress. The fortress is considered one of the biggest and best preserved in all of Europe. Built in 1077 as a humble bailey at present is now a formidable fortress thanks to Leonard von Keutschach, prince-archbishop of Salzburg from the late 1400’s to the late 1500’s. One of the highlights of anyone’s visit is the Golden Hall where lavish banquets used to take place under a gold-studded ceiling imitating a starry night.

2.      Schloss Mirabell

Built in 1606 by prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich to impress his mistress, this splendid palace with a lavish interior, replete with stucco, marble, and frescoes. Its famed Marble Hall provides a sublime backdrop for evening concerts. Its gardens are a thing to behold as well. Here you’ll find the Pegasus statue, the steps and the gnomes of the Dwarf Garden where the von Trapp children practiced their “Do-Re-Mi”.

3.      Erzabtei St Peter

A Frankish missionary named Rupert founded this abbey and monastery in around 700, making it the oldest in the German-speaking world. Though the vaulted Romanesque portal remains, today’s church is very much baroque with rococo stucco, statues, and striking altar paintings. Its cemetery is also home to the catacombs—cave-like chapels and crypts hewn out of the Monchsberg cliff face. The graves itself are also intricate works of art made from stone and filigree wrought-iron crosses.

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Discovering the Myth and Magic that Cyprus Has to Offer

While everyone scurries away to Italy, Greece or Spain during the warm European Summer everyone seems to overlook the beauty that Cyprus has to offer. Located in the eastern Mediterranean, it boasts romantic harbors, splendid ancient ruins and ruggedly stunning beaches that are for sure the stuff of myth and magic. Download the Cyprus Travel Guide and Offline Map now and discover this underrated summer destination.

1.  Pafos Archaeological Site

Nea Pafos is, ironically, the name given to the sprawling Pafos Archaeological Site, to the west of Kato Pafos. Nea Pafos was the ancient city of Pafos, founded in the late 4th century BC and originally encircled by massive walls. Despite being ceded to the Romans in 58 BC, it remained the center of all political and administrative life in Cyprus. It is most famed today for its mesmerizing collection of intricate and colorful mosaics based on ancient Greek myths.

2. Old Town

Wrapping around the Old Harbour, the diminutive Old Town is an atmospheric area for a wander. Its winding alleyways hold a jumble of abandoned stone buildings slowly slipping into disrepair, mixed with newer concrete additions. Modest remnants of Kyrenia's long history are speckled throughout the lanes. Two of the major monuments are the Ottoman-era Ağa Cafer Pașa Mosque and the dilapidated remains of 16th-century Chysopolitissa Church. There are also ancient Greco-Roman tombs on the road leading to Archangelos Michael Church.

3. Ayia Napa

Ayia Napa is a Mediterranean resort town on the southeast coast of Cyprus, known for its beaches. The town's main landmark is the storied, Venetian-era Ayia Napa Monastery, which stands in the central square of Plateia Seferi, surrounded by bars and clubs. Freshly caught seafood is served at Ayia Napa Harbour’s busy tavernas while adjoining Pantachou Beach offers a stretch of golden sand.

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Why You Should Visit the Largest Ancient Castle in the World in Prague

The castle has always been the seat of Czech monarchs as well as the official residence of the head of state. Looming above the Vltava's left bank, its serried ranks of spires, towers, and palaces dominate the city center like a fairy-tale fortress. Its history begins in the 9th century when Prince Bořivoj founded a fortified settlement here. It grew haphazardly as rulers made their own additions. Download the Prague Castle Travel Guide and Offline Map and make your way there now.

1. The Crown Jewels

Stowed away in a chamber of St. Vitus Cathedral, the Bohemian Crown Jewels include the St. Wenceslas crown, royal scepter, and coronation cloak. And the Republic isn't taking any chances with their safekeeping. Both the chamber door and iron safe inside have seven locks, the keys to which are held by seven people, including the President, Prime Minister, and Prague Archbishop. The President typically puts them on display every five years. When he does, all seven key holders must head over to the Castle for the unlocking process.

2. Its History

A crucial Holocaust organizer, Reinhard Heydrich held court at Prague Castle starting in 1941. Terrified Czechs nicknamed him The Butcher of Prague. But a group of exiled Czech government officials decided to take action. Two Czech soldiers parachuted back into the country and headed for Prague, where they hopped on bicycles and rode toward the Castle. When they spotted The Butcher in his Mercedez convertible, they made their move, shooting and tossing grenades his way.

3. The Largest Castle in the World

The Prague Castle complex is enormous, with an area totaling of 753,474 square feet. That makes it the largest ancient castle in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The complex extends down to the Lesser Quarter or Mala Strana, where several chateaux and palaces are found. Wallenstein Palace, for one, is home to the Czech Senate and includes 26 houses and six gardens.

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Exploring the Great Canadian Outback

It comes to now surprise how the world's second largest country can offer endless varieties of landscapes. Spread across six time zones, Canada has sky-high mountains, glinting glaciers, spectral rain forests, and remote beaches. Whether it's snowboarding Whistler's mountains, surfing Nova Scotia's swells or kayaking the white-frothed South Nahanni River in the Northwest Territories, adventures abound. So go on that next adventure with the Canada Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1. Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii forms a dagger-shaped archipelago of some 450 islands, it offers a magical trip for those who make the effort. The number-one attraction here is remote Gwaii Haanas National Park, which makes up the bottom third of the archipelago. Attention has long focused on the many unique species of flora and fauna to the extent that 'Canada's Galápagos' is a popular moniker. But each year it becomes more apparent that the real soul of the islands is the Haida culture itself.

2. Niagara Falls

Witness a spell-binding rush of unstoppable water over the arcing fault in the riverbed with thunderous force. Niagara Falls is the collective name for three waterfalls conveniently placed at the nook of the international border between Canada and the United States. These falls have a combined falls form the highest flow rate of any waterfall in North America that has a vertical drop of more than 165 feet.

3. Cabot Trail

Who can resist driving through Cabot Trail? Driving the trail is Nova Scotia's most famous recreational activity. Let the winding roads take you to serene lakes, beneath soaring eagles, and cliff-top vistas. Along the way, artists' workshops dot the southeastern flank of the trail like Easter eggs, from Englishtown to St Ann's Bay. You'll find pottery, leather, glass and pewter workers, painters and sculptors, and discover living remnants of Mi'kmaw and Acadian culture.

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Jaw-dropping Croatia and Why You Should Visit Now

Spend your days basking under the balmy sun and frolic in the Mediterranean sapphire waters amidst ancient walled towns--there's no better place to be than in Croatia. Its extraordinary island-speckled coastline is indisputably its main attraction where its crystal clear waters will outstand you. Precariously poised between the Balkans and central Europe, this land has been passed between competing kingdoms, empires, and republics for millennia. Download the Croatia Travel Guide and Offline Map and plan your next adventure now!

1. Dubrovnik

Regardless of whether you are visiting Dubrovnik for the first time or the hundredth, the sense of awe never fails to descend when you set eyes on the beauty of the old town. Indeed it’s hard to imagine anyone becoming jaded by the city’s white limestone streets, baroque buildings and the endless shimmer of the Adriatic, or failing to be inspired by a walk along the ancient city walls that protected a civilized, sophisticated republic for centuries.

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Within the boundaries of this heavily forested national park, 16 crystalline lakes tumble into each other via a series of waterfalls and cascades. The mineral-rich waters carve through the rock, depositing tufa in continually changing formations. Clouds of butterflies drift above the 18km of wooden footbridges and pathways that snake around the edges and across the rumbling water.

3. Hvar Town

The island’s hub and busiest destination, Hvar Town is estimated to draw around 20,000 people a day in the high season. It’s odd that they can all fit in the small bay town, where 13th-century walls surround beautifully ornamented Gothic palaces and traffic-free marble streets but fit they do.

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Exploring Spain One Village at a Time

The best places to visit are the ones that you don't read in guidebooks or see on social media. Lucky for us, Spain is abundant in these beautiful, unexpected little gems. Sprawled all throughout the country are medieval villages that are the stuff of fairy tales. Read on and go ahead and download the Spain Travel Guide and Offline Map to start your journey in the country of surprises.

1.     Pals, Girona

One of our favorite villages are ones that look like they haven't been touched by time. Its narrow stone streets, arched steps, and delicate flowers is certainly a blast from the past. The quaint little town of Pals seems was built in the 14th-15th centuries. Not only is it a beauty to behold, but it is also rich in history. This medieval Catalonian town experienced a peasant revolt that resulted in a civil war against Joan II.

2.      Peñafiel, Valladolid

Europe is mostly famous for its medieval stone towns, but Peñafiel is unique for its wooden buildings. Nestled in the Ribera del Duero is known for its sumptuous cuisine where wine and suckling pigs are the highlights. Make sure to also visit the Peñafiel Castle that overlooks the village and the Plaza del Coso Square its Clock Tower.

3.     Buitrago del Lozoya, Madrid

When in Madrid don't miss Buitrago. It is considered as the best-preserved Arab defense systems in Spain. Stop by the Chruch of Santa María del Castillo a church that’s small in size but otherwise impressive in its interior.  Santa Maria Church definitely adds character to the already charming town. The Buitrago del Lozoya Hospital, which was founded by the Marquis of Santillana in the 15th century is also a must-see.

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Antwerp, the City of Medieval Allure

Oh Antwerp, where do I begin? It is considered as Belgium's second most influential city and rightfully so. Through the years, starting in the 16th century, it's one of Europe's most important cities with fashion moguls, art lovers, and even diamond dealers are drawn to its magnetic charm. Despite its turbulent experiences during the WWII, Antwerp retains its medieval allure with an abundance of cafe-filled cobbled lanes, riverside fortresses, and an impressive cathedral. So what are you waiting for? Download the Antwerp travel Guide and Offline Map now!

1.     Rubenshuis

The picturesque 16th-century building was built as a home and studio by baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens. Unfortunately the stunning palatial residence was left in ruins until 1937 when it was extensively restored. The building is indeed jaw-dropping with a baroque portico, rear facade and exquisite formal garden. The furniture all dates from Rubens’ era, although it's not part of the original decor. Fourteen Rubens canvases are displayed, along with some wonderful period ephemera.

2.      Grote Market

What is a Flemish city without its signature medieval Grote Markt or Market Square? The triangular shaped, pedestrianised space features a baroque Brabo Fountain depicting Antwerp’s giant-killing, hand-throwing legend. Flanked on two sides by very photogenic guildhalls, the square is dominated by an impressive Italo-Flemish Renaissance-style stadiums, completed in 1565.

3.     The Jane

If you're looking for a truly gastronomic experience with a splash of aesthetically pleasing modern art then The Jane is the place to be. Antwerp's most dramatic restaurant is the perfect marriage of fine dining and rock and roll. Architect Piet Boon did not shy away at with restoring what once was a military-hospital chapel in its decaying state. Paired with the already sumptuous architecture is an even more sumptuous offering by Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman.

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Bath, Britain's Cultural Melting Pot of Architecture

From the grandest Georgian architecture to the world's best-preserved Roman bathhouses, it comes to no surprise why Bath has been drawing crowds for more than 2,000 years. Founded on top of a natural hot springs, this architecturally sophisticated city came to be during the 18th century. Thanks to father and son architects John Wood the Elder and Younger, who founded slinky landmarks such as the Circus and Royal Crescent. Download the Bath Travel Guide and Offline Map and experience this wondrous city for yourself.

1.     Roman Baths

Considered as the world's most well preserved Roman bath that was constructed above the city's three natural hot springs. Emerging at 46 degrees celcious it is situated alongside the temple dedicated to the healing goddess Sulis-Minerva. But it isn't just the goddess' temple that is within arm's reach from the Roman spa. In fact, 18th to 19th century buildings surround it. Expect throngs of tourist out and about in the baths so try and avoid weekends as much as possible.

2.      Royal Crescent

Asides from the great Roman Baths, Bath is also famed for its outstanding Georgian architecture. And it doesn't get any grander than the semicircular terrace of townhouses of Royal Crescent. And as if it can get no more majestic than it already is, it overlooks the green sweep of Royal Victoria Park. Design by John Wood the Younger and built between 1767 to 1775, the houses are perfectly symmetrical from the outside giving it it's architectural charm.

3.     Prior Park

The estate was established by the entrepreneur Ralph Allen and partly designed the landscape architect Capability Brown. The grand estate today is occupied by a private school, but the several lovely pathways around it are open to the public. This includes the Bath Skyline, a 6-mile circular trail offering wondrous views. It also features cascading lakes and a graceful Palladin bridge, which is notably one of only four such structures in the world.

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Why You Must Visit Siena, the Epitome of Tuscan Culture

The city of Siena is where architecture shines most in Tuscany. Everywhere you look you'll be greeted by great Gothic architecture, spectacular secular monuments from the medieval times, and extraordinary art collection from the same period. As one of the most well-preserved 17th-century villages, you can expect it to be as colorful and vibrant as it once was. Explore the beautiful city of Siena with the Siena Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Duomo

Built over a former Roman temple in 1179, Siena's iconic Duomo was constructed over the 13th and 14th centuries. The majestic cathedral showcases the talents of great medieval and Renaissance architects and artists. From Giovanni Pisano who designed its intricate white, green and red marble facade to Nicola Pisano who carved the elaborate pulpit just to name a few. Its intricate flooring took over 200 years to finish with 40 artists working on the depiction of the historical and biblical scenes.

2.      Piazza del Campo

Popular known as "Il Campo", the sloping piazza has been the city's civic and social center since the mid-12th century. What once was a Roman marketplace is now divided into nine sectors representing the number of members of the consiglio and these days acts as a carpet on which young locals meet and relax. Enjoy the view and marvel in its grandness by sitting in one of its cafes and have some popular Italian coffee or apertivi.

3.     Libreria Piccolomini

Commisioned by Cardinal Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini, archbishop of Siena who later on became Pope Pius III, in 1492, it houses books of his uncle, Enea Silvio Piccolomini Pope Pius II. But the books aren't the only things that draw in the crowds. Its vividly colored narrative frescoes by Pinturicchio that depict the life of Pius II is a thing to behold. In the center of the hall is a group of statues known as the Tre Grazie (Three Graces), a 3rd-century Roman copy of an earlier Hellenistic work.

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Visiting Liverpool: Musically Iconic and Oh So Historical

Liverpool, and no we don't mean the famed football club, but the stunning maritime city in northwest England. It is nestled in a confluence where the River Mersey meets the Irish Sea. Asides from being a key trade port in the 18th to the 20th century, it is also known for being the hometown of The Beatles. Enjoy picturesque port views, fresh seafood, and of course, some music history by heading over to this iconic city. Don't forget to download the Liverpool Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     Beatles Museum

Liverpool's most popular museum will leave any Beatles fan giddy. Here, you'll be able to enter an impressive full-size replica of the Cavern Club and the Abbey Road studio where the awesome foursome recorded their first singles. There's definitely a whole lot of memorabilia to see, like George Harrison's first ever guitar that's now worth 500,000 quid that will surely inspire fellow musicians and fans alike.

2.      Speke Hall

Speke Hall is the epitome of an Elizabethan half-timbered hall filled with awe-worthy timbered and plastered rooms. Its aesthetics isn't the only feature that draws crowds, but its rich history as well. The house contains several "holes" where priests hid during the anti-Catholic 16th and 17th centuries. The diagonally patterned Tudor house built in the 1400's and what once was surrounded by thousands of acres of land is now only surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens.

3.     Liverpool Cathedral

How can one miss visiting Britain's largest church AND the world's largest Anglican cathedral? And the Liverpool Cathedral is exactly just that and so much more. In fact, the central bell is the world's third largest with the world's highest and heaviest peal while the cathedral's organ and its 9,765 pipes is most likely the world's largest operational model. But this cathedral is not just about breaking records it is also home to a collection of artworks.

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Reasons that will Compel You to Visit Palermo, Italy's Most Flamboyant City

The capital of Italy's picturesque island paradise is equally as stunning as the rest of the entire island itself. Here, you'll get to venture in 12th-century royal tombs, huge neoclassical theaters, and stroll around a 9th-century royal palace. But history and architecture aren't the only things that Palermo has to offer. Explore busy street markets and get lost in its endearing culture that will surely perk up your senses. Download the Palermo Travel Guide and Offline Map now and start your next adventure!

1.     Cappella Palatina

Palermo's extraordinary chapel is the city's top tourist attraction. And it's no wonder having been designed by Roger II in 1130. Located on the mid-level of Palazzo dei Normanni's three-tiered loggia, prepare to be awestruck with its glittering gold mosaics, inlaid marble floors, and wooden muqarnas ceiling. The latter is considered a masterpiece Arabic-style honeycomb carving reflecting Norman Sicily's cultural complexity.

2.      Teatro Massimo

Can you imagine walking into a palatial neoclassical opera house that took 20 years to complete? Well, imagine no more. At Europe's second-largest opera house located in Palermo, you'll get to visually experience first-hand it richly decorated interiors. And if you're a fan of the Godfather series of movies then you'll be extra thrilled to know that the ending scene of The Godfather: Part III was filmed within its walls.

3.     Mercato di Ballarò

What better way to experience the culture of a certain city than to explore its markets? Several blocks southeast of the Palazzo dei Normanni is Palermo's busiest market. It's so busy that you literally it comes alive with its throbbing vibrancy from the early morning to the evenings. Mercato di Ballarò is a fascinating at best and the certainly the epitome of street life. Here you'll find everything you need for cheap, from Chinese products to fresh produce.

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Make Your Way Through Manchester, Locally Hailed as the Greatest City in the World

You'd probably think Manchester is just another stereotypical metropolitan city, but don't be so quick to brush it off your bucket list. It may be a major city in England, but did you know that it has rich industrial heritage? It's a rich blend of history and culture that is evident in its museums, galleries, and art centers. But what makes Manchester even more interesting is the ability to dine, drink, and dance into the night with its very active nightlife. Download the Manchester Travel Guide and Offline Map to help you guide your way through this fabulous city.

1.     Manchester Art Gallery

Where can we witness the most spectacular show of British art? We're pretty sure that handful of answers will point you to the Manchester Art Gallery. A hefty number of European masters are on display at the city's top gallery. It houses an impressive selection that includes 37 Turner watercolors as well as the country's best showcase of Pre-Raphaelite art. A newer gallery is home to 20th-century British art starring Lucien Freud, Stanley Spencer, and David Hockney to name a few.

2.      MediaCityUK

There is nothing as impressive in the broadcasting world than this 81-hectare site dedicated to hosting BBC and its six departments. It is also home to the set of the world's longest-running soap opera, the ever-popular Coronation Street. Although you can't tour the Corrie set just yet, you'll have plenty to see as you make your way through the rest of BBC's impressive set-up. This is the place to be to see the sets of some of TV's most iconic programs.

3.     People's History Museum

Not many tourists might know about Britain's 200-year fight for democracy and there is no better place to learn about it than in the People's History Museum. In this refurbished Edwardian pumping station, you will be taken deep in the heart of Britain's struggle for basic democratic rights, labor reform, and fair pay. You will come across an array of beautifully made and colorful union banners and even the desk where Thomas Paine wrote Rights of Man in 1791.

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There's No Better Place to be Than in Bordeaux, the French Wine Hub

Experience Bordeaux and all its vibrancy amidst great wineries and 18th to 19th-century mansions. This dynamic city is known for its Gothic-style cathedral, art museums, and public gardens that line the river quays. The city is so impressive that half of the city is UNESCO-listed making it the largest urban World Heritage site. Explore its world-class architecture and stunning landscapes with the Bordeaux Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     La Cité du Vin

Whether you're a wine aficionado or an occasional wine drinker, there is no better place to learn about the art of making and consuming win than at the groundbreaking La Cité du Vin. The building itself will leave you in awe, as it is a stunning piece of contemporary architecture resembling a wine decanter on the banks of the River Garonne. There are 20 different themed sections covering everything from vine cultivation, grape varieties and wine production to the ancient wine trade, 21st-century wine trends, and celebrated personalities.

2.      Miroir d'Eau

Covering an area of 3,450 square meters, the Miroir d'Eau is the world's largest reflecting pool. This fountain of sorts made with black granite is set on the quayside opposite of the equally impressive Palais de la Bourse. the 'water mirror' provides hours of entertainment on warm sunny days when the reflections in its thin slick of water--drained and refilled every half-hour--is amazing. Every 23 minutes a dense fog-like vapor is ejected for three minutes makes one of the best photo opportunities.

3.     Cathédrale St-André

The imposing Cathédrale St-André stands high over the city of Bordeaux. It was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site even before the city's classification. The cathedral's oldest section dates from 1096, but most of what you see today was built in the 13th and 14th centuries. What makes the cathedral even more imposing than its size is its gargoyled, 50m-high Gothic belfry, Tour Pey-Berland, erected between 1440 and 1466.

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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.

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The Only Guide You'll Ever Need On Rotterdam, Europe's Rising Star

When we say Rotterdam is Europe's rising star, we are not kidding. The city is filled with the most spectacular initiatives by the locals themselves. Amidst the futuristic architecture lie these exhilarating initiatives such as inner-city canal surfing, a proliferation of art, and a busy drinking and dining scene. It is also the most diverse and multiethnic and so it comes to no surprise at how forward thinking the city is. Download the Rotterdam Travel Guide and Offline Map and explore Rotterdam now!

1.     Museum Boijmans van Beuningen

The Museum Boijmans van Beuningen is considered among Europe's finest museums. It has a permanent collection spanning all eras of Dutch and European art imaginable. Among the many highlights are The Marriage Feast at Cana by Hieronymus Bosch, the Three Maries at the Open Sepulchre by Van Eyck, the minutely detailed Tower of Babel by Pieter Brueghel the Elder, and Portrait of Titus and Man in a Red Cap by Rembrandt.

2.      Toko 51

As they say while traveling, do what the locals do. And one of the most happening places for the locals of Rotterdam is Toko 51. Not only is this concept store a melting pot for local creatives that showcases modern art, hosts live music events and sell vintage clothes, but it also is also a supermarket of sorts with Mexcian tacos from Sabor Sabor. And even makes rooms for aspiring barbers that offer haircuts.

3.     Kralingse Bos and Plas

The wooded park of Kralingse Bos and Plas lies just outside the city center and is the perfect combination of shaded forests, sparkling waters, and manicured grass. It's the perfect spot where locals go for their laidback excursions. Here, you'll find a variety of activities to enjoy such as cycling, sailing, rowing, and even barbecue with friends and family or work on your suntan on the sandy beach.

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Three Compelling Reasons to Visit Bologna, a Foodie's Dream Destination

Bologna is rich in food history and culture that we're sure the city's name sounds familiar to you. Bolognese sauce? Bologna sausage? Yes, they all originated from Italy's 7th most populous city. Its rich history comes to no surprise as the first settlements date back to at least 1000 BC. It has withstood four periods from the Etruscan period and Celtic period to the Roman period and the Middle Ages. Learn more about Bologna through the Bologna Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.     All'Osteria Bottega

For foodies out there All'Osteria Bottega is the place to be while in Bologna. The owners themselves, Daniele and Valeria lavish attention on every table between trips to the kitchen. Enjoy plates of culatello di Zibello ham, tortellini in capon broth, Petroniana-style veal cutlets (breaded and fried, then topped with Parma ham and parmigiano reggiano and pan-sauteed in broth) and other Slow Food delights.

2.      Torre degli Asinelli

The leaning towers are the city's main symbol. The taller tower, the Torre degli Asinelli is 97.2m-high and is open to the public. However, be prepared to climb up and down 498 steps. It was built by the Asinelli family between 1109 and 1119. The shorter tower, the Torre Garisenda is 47m-high and leans 3.2m off vertical. If you wish to climb up the shorter twin, you'll have to purchase tickets in advance from the official website as there are no tickets sold onsite.

3.     Basilica di Santo Stefano

The Basilica di Santo Stefano is such an interesting religious site to visit. Its unique atmospheric structure is like a labyrinth filled with interlocking ecclesiastical structures. Its architecture dates back centuries of Bolognese history and incorporates Romanesque, Lombard and even ancient Roman elements.

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