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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Why Visit Alicante, the Spanish City Set in the Mediterranean

The port city of Spain's Alicante in southeastern Costa Blanca s a melting pot of the old and the new. Nestled in this waterfront, Mediterranean city is a medieval castle, and old quarter, and a long waterfront with amazing hilltop views of the coast. Despite the sweeping medieval sites, Alicante is definitely one of the Spanish cities that is most influenced by tourism. So you'd also best expect an exciting dining scene and a legendary nightlife that's buzzing all year-round. So what are you waiting for? Download the Alicante Travel Guide and Offline Map now and make your way to this beautiful city!

1.      Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Set on Benacantil Mountain this large 16th-century castle offers a great panoramic view of the city at 166 meters above sea level. Archeological remains have been found on its slopes dating back to the Bronze Age, Iberian, and Roman times. The castle itself houses a museum that depicts the history of the city and as well as dedicating a couple of chambers for a temporary exhibition.

2.      Playa del Postiguet

This lively beach town is famous among locals where the young and young at heart spend their day. If you don't mind a little bit crowd especially during the Summers then Playa del Postiguet is the perfect getaway for a blissful day at the beach. If you don't want to sunbathe or go swimming then you can stroll along the promenade and its many chiringuitos, cafés, and restaurants. There's definitely plenty to do for both city breakers and families.

3.      Basílica de Santa María

As the oldest active church in the whole of Alicante province, the Basílica de Santa María was built in Valencian Gothic style between the 14th and 16th centuries over the remains of a mosque. The basilica stands tall with its single nave and six side chapels located between the buttresses. By the request of the city of Alicante to the Holy See, the church was promoted to the rank of basilica in 2007.

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Have a Vacation at Bratislava, the Most Underrated City in Europe

If there could only be one hidden gem among the many destinations in Europe, then it has got to be Bratislava. After all, most people, even those who travel a lot, aren’t even aware it exists. Here are a few reasons why you need to visit this heavily underrated city. Bring your Bratislava Travel Guide & Offline City Map with you. It will help a lot in your exploration.

1.      Cheap Accommodation

Accommodation in Bratislava is dirt cheap compared to the larger and more popular European cities. If your budget is really tight you can opt for a shared room in the downtown area and pay only as low as $10 per night. If you don’t want to worry about breakfast, there are numerous hostels that offer 2-person rooms at $30-50 per night with free breakfast for two.

2.      Free Sunday

Your vacation in Bratislava can get even cheaper if you visit during the first Sunday of the month which is known in the city as Free Sunday. During Free Sunday, all museums and galleries in the city including the Bratislava Castle and Michael’s Gate in Old Town offer free admission. This gives you the opportunity to learn something about Bratislava and Slovakia without spending a single cent.

3.      Small City

Yet another reason why a Bratislava vacation is cheap is the fact that the city is quite small. It’s a city of only half a million residents and you can just walk from one attraction to the next. The only real reason to use public transport is if it’s raining and you don’t have an umbrella. Moreover, most of the attractions can be found in Old Town so you can check them all out in one day as long as your legs don’t give out on you due to too much walking.

4.      Local Food, Wine, and Beer

Bratislava is the place to go if you want to taste authentic Slovakian food, wine, and beer at the cheapest possible price. Try out Bryndzove Halusky (sheep cheese dumplings served with bacon), Slovakia’s national dish. Bratislava is always a top contender in the country’s ‘The Wine of the Year’ national competition and the city’s finest wine can be found in Old Town’s Rača district. Most wineries in Old Town also serve beer. Ask for the Corgoň draught beer, one of the most tasteful beers in the region.

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