Saturday, February 8, 2014

Istanbul: minarets and bazaars

Istanbul, with the beautiful sharp line of delicate minarets and onion-shaped domes, is the city of fantastic palaces decorated with treasures gained in the numerous wars of the Ottoman period

In the magnificent Grand Bazaar, which has hundreds of feet of covered passages, thousands of shops and shining stands, visitors can really understand the roots of this city, an important place of trade with foreign countries. Here you can get lost for hours, and if you are prepared to negotiate well, you can find many offers of colored carpets, sapphires, rubies or emeralds.


Below the Bazaar, the waters of the Golden Horn are cut by the Galata bridge which connects the old city with the new one. But talking about Istanbul, new means at least one century old.



However, the former capital of the two important empires Byzantine and Ottoman, Istanbul has an impressive history and monuments that offer breathtaking views. The promontory known today as Sultanahmet was built during centuries by emperors and sultans, its walls surrounding disappeared palaces and some of the first Christian religious settlements. Now, among the many archaeological treasures, you can explore the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque and the ruins of the great hippodrome used for chariot racing.

For accommodation you can choose one of the many cozy and cheap hotels in Istanbul.

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Holiday in Athens with Kids


Holiday in Athens with Kids


Whether you come alone or accompanied by children, you will find the Greek capital as captivating today as was in the past.

The majestic Partheon continues to dominate the city from the top of the Acropolis, while the clean streets, paved with cubic stone, abound of people who enjoy the cheerful atmosphere of the inviting cafes on the sidewalks.

The kids are welcomed anywhere and at any time in Greece, especially in the ancient city where many attractions are waiting to be discovered by the curious minds. The historic centre is an open-air museum with ruins and Byzantine churches next to apartments, office buildings and some of the most comfortable Hotels in Athens.






Walk on the shady alleys of the National Garden, one of the quietest places in town, then head up to the Panathenian Stadium built entirely of marble, where the first Olympic Games was held in 1896 - a real attraction for those passionate about sports. Agora, where democracy was born, is extremely fascinating, both for young and older people.


Beside the historic places, children will enjoy the theme parks, adventure tours or the Zoo. Or you can always take the example of the Athenians and walk on the promenade of Flisvos city, stopping to climb aboard the Averof, an imposing warship dating back from 1911.







Transportation: walk in the city center, public transport: buses and metro
Accommodation: double rooms from 25 to 237.5 € (source: guestus.com)
Dinner: costs 8-15per person in a traditional tavern