Switzerland, the Land of Adventure and Urban Culture

Beyond its decadent chocolates, Switzerland is probably the epitome of the great outdoors. Its ravishing landscapes and heart-stopping Alpine views demand for you to grab your outdoor gear and explore. With hiking and biking trails abound, Switzerland is every adventurer's dream come true. Its urban edge comes from its medieval old town and world-class modern art. This land of four-languages will definitely not disappoint. Don't forget to download the Switzerland Travel Guide and Offline Map on your Swiss journey.

1.     Zermatt

Imagine a town beautifully nestled at the foot of iconic, snowy peaks. Reminiscent of Christmas pop-up greeting cards, Zermatt lies at an elevation of around 1,600m and lies below the stunning pyramid-shaped Matterhorn peak. This famous mountain resort is world-renowned for skiing, climbing, and hiking. Stroll down its main street, Bahnhofstrasse, and experience a true white holiday while window-shopping with its boutique shops, hotels, and restaurants.

2.      Aletsch Glacier

Feel The Sound of Music vibes right down to your core as you visit the Aletsch Glacier. At 23km, it is considered the longest glacier in the European Alps and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It numerous viewpoints can be reached through cable cars and lifts climbing from Fiesch, Bettmeralp, and Riederalp. You can also hike above the glacier and with a view that will make you sing, "The hills are alive with the sound of music!" ala Julie Andrews, you know it's well worth it.

3.     Lake Geneva

Switzerland is never short on spellbinding views and Lake Geneva has one of the most stunning views of the Alps. Half of the lake belongs to France while the other half is Vaudoise's pride and glory. It's a perfect getaway all-year-round as hiking activities are said to be glorious in the Summer and once Winter hits you can enjoy skiing with some of the world's elites.

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

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.

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

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.

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

What to See in Seattle, the Futuristic City Amidst Evergreen Forests

What's not to love about Seattle when you get the best of worlds--modern architecture and a large tech industry on one hand and on the other mountains and evergreen forests and thousands of acres of parkland. A city nestled on Puget Sound and a view of Downtown Seattle from Queen Anne Hill, with the Space Needle on the left and Mount Rainier on the right, is a testament to the city's booming economy and penchant for preserving nature. If you'd want to have a taste of both worlds then visit Seattle with the Seattle Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      The Space Needle

One of the most iconic landmarks of the Pacific Northwest, the Space Needle was built in the Seattle Center for the 1962 World's Fair. It was once considered the tallest structure west of the Mississippi River and it 605 feet or 184 meters high. It ws built to withstand winds up to 200 miles per hour and earthquakes of up to 9.1 magnitudes. It offers a great view of the city from up above on its observation deck and even boasts a rotating restaurant.

2.      Museum of Pop Culture

The Museum of Pop Culture is a nonprofit museum, dedicated to contemporary popular culture. It was founded by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen in 2000 as the Experience Music Project. The 140,000-square-foot building houses exhibits that cover pop culture, from the art of fantasy, horror cinema, and video games to science fiction literature and costumes from screen and stage. Interactive activities included in galleries like Sound Lab and On Stage where visitors can explore hands-on the tools of rock and roll through instruments, and perform music before a virtual audience.

3.      Gas Works Park

What was the site of the former Seattle Gas Light Company gasification plant is now a famous public park on the North shore of Lake Union. Gas Works park contains remnants of the sole remaining coal gasification plant in the United States. The plant operated from 1906 to 1956 and was bought by the City of Seattle for park purposes in 1962. Gas Works Park also features an artificial kite-flying hill with an elaborately sculptured sundial built into its summit.

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

3 Compelling Reasons Why You Should Visit San Antonio

Amidst the towering buildings and modern urban architecture, San Antonio is still very much rich in its colonial heritage. As the seventh-most populated city in the United States, it comes to no surprise that San Antonio holds a charm not a lot can resist. From 18th-century Spanish buildings to HemisFair Parks's 750-feet Tower of America, the city that once was a part of Mexico is definitely a must-visit on your trip to the United States. Enjoy the sights San Antonio has to offer with the San Antonio Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      The Alamo

The city is home to five 18th-century Spanish missions, including The Alamo and together with the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. Originally known as Misión San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo was founded as a Roman Catholic mission and fortress. It also marks the site of the infamous 1836 battle for Texan independence from Mexico. Today, it stands as a museum in the Alamo Plaza Historic District.

2.      River Walk

Also known as Paseo del Río or simply as the River Walk is a network of walkways along the San Antonio River banks. It is one story beneath the automobile street and is lined with bars, shops, restaurants, public art, and of course, lots of nature. Its history, however, goes beyond just being a famous tourists attraction. After a disastrous flood in 1921, plans were then developed for flood control of the river. One of them was what would become the River Walk.

3.      La Villita Historic Arts Village

Located on the South Bank of the San Antonio River, La Villita was one of San Antonio's first neighborhoods. Today, it serves as an art community lines with art galleries, stores selling souvenirs, gifts, custom jewelry, pottery, and imported Mexican folk art, as well as several restaurants. One of the best things about visiting the La Villita is that it's close to other sites you should definitely check out like The Alamo, Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, Rivercenter Mall, and HemisFair Park.

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

Discovering the Best of Taipei, the Artsy East Asian Metropolis

The modern metropolis of the Taiwanese capital is filled Japanese colonial lanes; busy shopping districts, and aesthetically remarkable contemporary buildings. It is widely known for its artistic flair and lively street-food scene boasted by the contemporary art galleries and flourishing night markets. A visit to Taipei can be overwhelming to both the senses and mind so be sure to download the Taipei Travel Guide and Offline Map before your trip.

1.      Modern Districts

Enjoy the modern commercial district of Daan, which offers quite a number of department stores, plenty of fashion boutiques, lounge bars, and atmospheric restaurants. Xinyi district is also not one to be missed as it is home to the Taipei 101. Towering over the city of Taipei, the Taipei 101, which gives you a full 360 view of the entire city. Xinyi is also known as the modern financial district and is where the World Trade Center and International Convention Center is located.

2.      Old Districts

Wanhua is the oldest district of Taipei and offers many historical buildings, such as the Longshan Temple and Red House Theater. Stroll around the shopping neighborhood of Ximending and experience the "harajuku of Taipei" firsthand. It is centered on teenage fashion, Japanese culture and subcultures. What used to be the commercial center of the city, Datong, is also not to be missed. Although it has lost relevance as the economic center, it is now most known for Dihua Street with its Japanese colonial and Qing Dynasty architecture.

3.      Suburban Districts

Taipei is all about its rich history and flourishing night market scene. Enjoy the best of both worlds and visit the district of Shilin. It is known for its excellent museums, including the world famous National Palace Museum and at the same time holds Taipei's largest night market. Located North-east of the city is the Neihu district. It is a great example of how the old and the new meld into a beautiful juxtaposition in Taipei. It offers a mix of local Taiwanese culture and modern shopping malls and restaurants.

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

3 Reasons to Visit Granada, the Spanish City of Sweeping Views

In the foothills of Sierra Nevada lies the revered city of Granada. The historical city southern Spain’s Andalusia region is esteemed for its grand medieval architecture dating back to the 13th-century Moorish occupation. As the last stronghold of the Moors in Western Europe, Granada is home to the famous Alhambra Palace. But beyond the grandiose architecture, you will enjoy a remarkable cuisine distinct from other famous Spanish cities like Barcelona and the neighboring Seville. Find out what makes Granada such an inspiration to celebrated writers and artists by downloading the Granada Travel Guide and Offline Map.

1.      The Alhambra Palace

If Agra has the Taj Mahal and Siem Reap has the Angkor Wat, Granada has the spectacular Alhambra Palace. Standing tall atop the entire hill of La Sabica it offers intricate designs, detailed mosaics, hand-carved cedar wood, and even serene orchards. Samuel Ha-Nagid, the Jewish grand vizier of one of Granada’s 11th-century Zirid sultans, initially built the UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Nasrid emirs turned the area into a fortress-palace complex and housed royal families before the Catholic Monarchs took hold during the Reconquista in 1492.

2.      St. John of God Basilica

The basilica dedicated to John of God, the Portuguese soldier who devoted his life to helping those who were less fortunate, is a glistening jewel of the Baroque period. And when we say glistening it indeed shines with gold and silver. It boasts a beautiful Baroque façade flanked by towers featuring slate capitals. Inside, you will discover opulent decorations that fill every inch of the Latin cross floor plan. The church chapel houses a solid silver urn that holds the relics of Saint John of God. Its interior is richly adorned with sculptures and images. The fresco paintings depict saints, angels, virtues, and episodes from the life of Saint John of God.

3.      Junta de los Rios

Granada isn't just about spectacular palaces and grand temples; it also boasts breath taking natural wonders. Nestled in Otivar, Granada is a place of outstanding natural beauty with wonderful river pools and spectacular views. Making Junta de los Rios, which translates to "the joining of the rivers", a great excursion for the more adventurous. Junta de los Rios with there the rivers Rio Verde and Rio Negro converge to form waterfalls and crystal, clear pools where you can take a dip and take a break from the warm Granada weather. Until recently, only a handful of people visited for climbing and canyoneering.

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

Must see! Cologne, Germany’s Oldest City

Located across both sides of the Rhine river, the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne is considered Germany's oldest city and is the region's cultural hub. The city itself is brimming with rich architecture and history. It is brimming with galleries and museums that showcase a range of exhibitions and shows from 20th-century pieces to modern art and sculpture and even Roman antiquities. There so much to see in Cologne that it might get overwhelming at times, make sure to download the Cologne Travel Guide and Offline City Map to help you on your cultural trip.

1.      Cologne Cathedral

What is locally called the grand Kolner Dom–Germany's largest cathedral–dominates Cologne's skyline with its famous twin spires. This massive church took over 600 years to build and is hailed as the epitome of European gothic architecture. It is one of Western Europe's most famous medieval sites of Christian art where you can admire its beautifully stained-glass windows and elaborately decorated towers. If you're up for a challenge, you can climb up 509 steps of the South tower and witness a breathtaking view of the city from up above.

2.      Museum Ludwig

Right next door to the Cologne Cathedral is the Museum Ludwig, which offers a stimulating trip through the art of the last century, the third-largest Picasso collection in the world, as well as one of the most comprehensive Pop Art collections by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein outside the Unites States. The museum it in itself is also a work of art, showcasing a combination of striking sharp angles and curves. If you’re keen on a pre-game bite before getting lost in a sea of art, the Museum Cafe and Restaurant's food is an excellent treat.

3.      Rhine River Cruise

One of the world's most popular river cruising destinations is Europe's longest river, the mighty Rhine River. Take in Cologne's beautiful scenery as you cruise down at least 20 ancient, hillside castles, lush vineyards, and about 15 German Rhine towns with their winding streets and sleepy medieval architecture. Visit the famous Trendelburg Castle or also fondly known as the Rapunzel's Castle along the Rhine Gorge. If you've whipped up an appetite from all the sightseeing, fret not, the river cruises not only offers amazing architecture, old world style and charm, but also delicious wine, beer, and food in a fairy tale atmosphere.

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

Top reasons to travel to Bucharest!

There are a plethora of reasons why Bucharest, Romania’s capital and largest city, should be your next destination. To make sure you don’t get lost or overwhelmed by the multitude of attractions; get the Bucharest Travel Guide and Offline City Map.

1.      Your Dollar Goes a Long Way

Romania is not in the Eurozone despite joining the European Union in 2007 so you will need Romanian leu (RON) instead of pounds to once you’ve arrived Bucharest, or anywhere else in the country. Today, one US dollar can be exchanged for 4 RON. You can stay in Bucharest for over a week and your food and entertainment expenses will likely not even reach $100 and most of the main attractions can be enjoyed at just a few dollars each.

2.      Drinking is Incredibly Cheap

If you love beer then Bucharest is the best place in Europe to get yourself drunk silly. Even in the most expensive sections in the city a pint of beer will not cost more than $3. Oh, and when you get to doing your drinking spree, make sure you sample tuică, a traditional spirit made from plums.

3.      Marvel at the World’s Heaviest Building

The Palace of Parliament is the world’s heaviest building and second largest administrative building after the Pentagon. It was completed in the 1980s and was the symbol of Romania’s communist might during the reign of the Ceaușescu regime. It has more than a thousand rooms and some can be accessed through guided tours of the colossal structure.

4.      Go to Dracula’s Lair

Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula, the world’s most famous vampire, was inspired by Romanian Vlad Tepes. Tepes, also known as Vlad the Impaler, may be considered a tyrant by the rest of the world but in Romania he is hailed as a hero. He successfully defended Wallachia from invaders. He impaled hundreds and displayed them near the borders of his territory. Only a few dared to invade his dominion after seeing the sea of impaled men. Snagov, Tepes’ final resting place, is only 25 miles north of Bucharest. The remains of the ruthless ruler are said to be buried underneath a monastery located in a tiny island in the middle of a lake.

For more information on hundreds of exciting destinations, come and visit eTips.

Visit Málaga, the Gateway to the Costa del Sol

Málaga is the second-most populous city of Andalusia and the sixth-largest municipality in Spain. It is extremely popular with tourists and listed below are some of the reasons why. Don’t forget to get your copy of Malaga Travel Guide and Offline City Street Map the before you arrive at this majestic city.

The Location

Málaga is the Southernmost Large City in Europe and its location cannot be more ideal. It is the perfect jumping board for excursions to nearby destinations such as Sevilla, Cordoba, and Granada. The high degree of accessibility makes it a culture-packed Metropolis where modern amenities mix perfectly well with the traditional vibe of a beach town. Whether you sick modern sophistication or rustic peace and quiet, Málaga can give it to you.

The Weather

Málaga has around 320 days of bright sunshine each year which will allow you to make the most out of its spectacular beaches. This wonderful weather is unique to Málaga. The mountains prevent the cold from reaching it while the Mediterranean regulates the heat and prevents temperatures from going too high. With an average temperature of 22°C, you can visit Málaga any day of the year and still have a blast. 

The Food

Prepare your taste buds for authentic Málaga wine and freshly caught seafood of all kinds. Easy access to fresh ingredients is one of the perks of being a port town. Speaking, of freshness, make sure you try the city’s specialty, the gazpacho. Gazpacho is a soup made with raw vegetables and served cold. And as with any other Spanish city, there is also a wide variety of tapas to choose from in Málaga. With numerous beach cafes, restaurants, and tapa bars to choose from, you never have to eat at the same place twice. Also, check out the pubs and wine bars. Most of them serve Málaga wine directly from the barrel.

The Museums

Málaga has earned the nickname ‘The City of Museums” because it has more than 20 museums, with 15 of them located in the same vicinity. The most notable of these museums are the Pablo Picasso Birthplace Museum and the Picasso Museum of Málaga which both house a massive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works.

Visit us at eTips for more useful travel guides and virtual city maps.

Copenhagen, the Stylish Danish Capital

Copenhagen, Denmark is one of the emerging tourist destinations today with many people from all over the world getting captivated by its dreamy design, luscious foods, and beauty. Here are some of the many reasons you should visit Copenhagen. And don’t forget to download the Copenhagen Travel Guide Offline and City Map for maximum experience. The Restaurants

Copenhagen is home to Noma, rated 2-stars by Michelin and is considered one of the 50 best restaurants in the world and the pinnacle of super gourmet dining. There are also numerous other notable eateries such as:

• Fiskebar – serves a wide variety of fish dishes
• Kiin Kiin – a Michelin-starred Thai restaurant
• Retour Steak – home of half kilo rumps
• Relae – informal eatery ideal for dates
• Bodega - a cafe-cum-bar near the city cemetery and the number one destination for brunch

Street Food

If you prefer going through food stalls and tasting as much variety of food as you can over sitting on a dining table, Copenhagen has you covered with its rapidly growing street food scene. The Paper Island houses the city’s first street food market where you can sample food from all over the globe, pull and deck chair, sit by the water, and enjoy the assortment of good food. Artists and musicians also often frequent the area to give free live performances to diners.

Yammi! Copenhagen Cinnamon Rolls

The Hygge

Hygge (pronounced hoo-gah) is a toasty, warm, cozy atmosphere so unique to the Danish winter the word does not have a direct English translation yet. It is all about a serene environment of good life, candles, friends and laughter, and a sheepskin blanket. Spending a few winter days in Copenhagen will be a perfect bonding activity for couples and families.

The Tivoli Gardens

The Tivoli Gardens amusement park, founded in 1843, is considered as a national treasure and a must-visit for anyone visiting Copenhagen. It is like a place from fairytales with its lush gardens, exotic architecture, and thousands of multi-colored lights that come alive during the night.

Enjoy Tivoli Gardens

Cycling Culture

Bicycles are the primary mode of transport in Copenhagen which means no traffic, no noise, and no pollution. You can rent a city bike with built-in GPS or a traditional bike from one of the many ubiquitous shops and start exploring.

For easier time navigating Copenhagen or any other famous city, get a corresponding guide from eTips.

Visit Bern, the Swiss Capital!

When tourists talk about Switzerland the most common topics are Geneva and Zurich. Often overlooked is the nation’s capital, Bern. Below are a few reasons to visit Bern. And when you do go and visit Bern, make sure to have this app ready: Bern Travel Guide and Offline City Map. It will make your exploration easier.

1. The BearPark

The BearPark, which was recently renovated in 2015, is one of the best places in the world when it comes to observing bears in their natural habitat. It is located just outside Old Town so you can make it the first item in your itinerary to get yourself pumped up by a few bear encounters. It has an area for bears to swim and relax and an inclined lift for visitors.

So sweet! Bern BearPark!

2. The Rosengarten

Just a short 10-minute uphill walk from the BearPark is another Park named Rosengarten. The Rose Garden gives you the best aerial view of Bern and is also home to a wide variety of roses. The park also has its own restaurant aptly named Restaurant Rosengarten where you can dine while enjoying a view of the city.

3. Old Town

Bern’s Old Town is like a bear city. You will see bears everywhere such as bear decorations in shop windows, bear carvings in residential houses, etc. You can’t walk five minutes without spotting a new bear. The cobblestone streets and fountains are a thing of beauty. If you are too lazy to walk, there is also a tram that runs throughout Old Town. There are two places you should never forget to check out while in old town:

• Zytglogge – the city’s landmark clock tower where mechanical figures come out to celebrate the arrival of each new hour.
• Bern Münster – the country’s tallest cathedral with a towering height of 300 feet.
• Old Town Park – offers the best view of the sunset.

Amazing Bern Old Town View

4. The Einstein Museum

Albert Einstein, one of the most renowned geniuses in the world, came up with his famous formula E = mc 2 and a huge portion of his Theory of Relativity during his two-year stay at Bern from 1903 to 1905. The Einstein Museum has a section of 1,000 square meters dedicated solely for Einstein. You can also visit the apartment where Einstein stayed which is just a few minutes away from the Museum.

Do yourself a favor and bring with you a virtual map of the city you are visiting. You can get the best travel guides from eTips.

Wonderful Reasons to Visit Zurich, One of Europe’s Hippest Destinations

Zurich is not only one of the top destinations in Switzerland; it is also one of the country’s fastest growing business hubs. The city offers a perfect marriage of traditional Swiss culture with the hip of modern times. Below are some of the reasons why Zurich should be on your list of places to visit. To check out all tourist spots in the city, refer to the Zurich Travel Guide and Offline City Map & Metro. The Partying

Gone are the days when Swiss were known to be one of the most conservative people in the world. Zurich is buzzing with nightlife and a very vibrant party vibe. The city has numerous locations where you can dance all you want especially in Züri-West, the heart of Zurich’s nightlife. The most notable club is the Badi Bars, a network of waterside bars. You might also want to come in time for the Zurich Street Parade. With thousands of participants, this is festival is the largest techno party in the world.

The best shopping experience in Zurich

Old Town

Spending an entire day roaming the streets of Old Town is not a bad way to spend your time. Old Town houses the majestic Historic Centre which is the symbol of Zurich culture. Check out various churches, residential buildings, and other establishments build during the Middle Ages with some dating as far back as the reign of Charlemagne.

The Lake

The beautiful crystal-clear Lake Zurich is located at the center of the city. The lake is always teeming with activity from people having a picnic near the shore to oarsmen racing in their canoes to couples having a romantic time in their pedalos.

Sit back and enjoy Zurich lake view

If you want to know the most popular tourist spots in a particular city, just look for the travel guides in eTips and your travel will surely be a breeze!