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Top Vacations Best of the Caribbean

Vacation Destinations

The Caribbean is a widely visited region thanks to the beautiful waters and copious beaches. It is home to numerous islands, making it a traveller’s paradise. Islands are surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and some border the North Atlantic Ocean as well. This area is situated southeast of the North American mainland, north of South America, east of Central America and is southeast of the Gulf of Mexico.

Found mainly on the Caribbean Plate, there are over 69 larger islands and approximately 650 altogether. Numerous cays, islets, and reefs provide a picturesque shoreline. These islands typically form island arcs which delineate the northern and eastern edges of the Caribbean Sea.

The Caribbean islands consist of the Lesser Antilles on the east and south, which includes the Leeward Antilles and the Greater Antilles on the north. These islands make up part of the somewhat larger West Indies grouping. The Lucayan Archipelago is found within the vicinity, made up of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas, situated north of the Caribbean Sea and the Greater Antilles. If looking at the topography from a wider perspective, the mainland countries of Suriname, Guyana and Belize may be included.

Some of the less popular Caribbean Destinations include:

Anguilla

The beaches on this island are quite small and full of luxurious villas scattered around. There is friendly local culture to behold. This island is suited best for those who wish to enjoy an isolated and low key holiday.

Antigua

This medium sized island is home to numerous little beaches that are flanked with resorts of all kinds. Here, you will find lavish accommodation all the way to modest options. The English Harbour provides a diverse colonial heritage and is an excellent choice for yaught junkies. This holiday is best for resort style living with a few day trips.

Barbados

Situated right on the edge of the Atlantic, this medium sized island offers excellent beaches for budget sunbathers, surf enthusiasts and wind-surfers. For those who wish to dress up for supper, this welcome island will fulfill your needs. The surroundings are clean and it is common to run into people of English decent. It is a great option for those who feel comfortable in linen suits and enjoy activities.

Bonaire

Many would vote Bonaire to be the most interesting island located in the southern Caribbean region. It is a tiny place that is world renowned for its amazing diving right off shore. There is also some neat history regarding their walkable main city of Kralendijk. It is a dream for budget travelers, and people who like to go scuba diving and exploring.

British Virgin Islands

The less-developed, more isolated and richer version of the US Virgin Islands is home to 40 islands. The main island Tortola offers glam diversions. There are tons of yaught enthusiasts and divers and snorkelers who flock here to explore. Home to numerous sunset cocktail parties and for people who prefer the motion of the ocean.

Curaçao

This island is considered to be medium size. There is a historic and gorgeous harbor to explore, located in the main city of Willemstad. It is a great choice for those who like exploring off the beaten track.

Dominica

This island may be lower on the plethora of beaches found on other islands; however, it is home to a rain forest and many waterfalls. The peaks and valleys offer exciting vegetation to explore. An awesome choice for trekkers and climbers and those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

Dominican Republic

DR, as it is known by, is a large country with a dominant Hispanic culture. It offers a ton of colonial-era history, and world-class resorts on stunning beaches. The untrammeled inland areas have forbidding peaks that call to adventurous souls.

Grenada

Nutmeg is fragrant in the air surrounding this tiny ex-British colony that offers on the most interesting capitals in the region: St. Georges. There are rainforest dense hills around the small beaches offering a stunning topography. This kind of holiday is best suited for those who wish to explore gorgeous, natural surroundings.

Guadeloupe

Relaxed island feel is the groove you will experience when you visit French-accented Guadeloupe. It is the best choice for those seeking some excellent cuisine and who wish to travel and chill in the sand. The tropical nature and carefree atmosphere make it ideal for those who wish to sunbathe topless and enjoy a seafood feast afterwards.

Haiti

Haiti is in the international headlines on a regular basis. It offers quite the opposite of a care-free holiday. Within the wake of the 2010 earthquake, extra challenges occurred. If you wish to check out the rich African culture, it is an interesting place to visit. However, if you are seeking a care-free holiday, then it is probably not for you. Haiti is best for those who wish to explore and travel more.

Martinique

Martinique provides a sprawling city to explore in the main town of Fort-de-France. There are numerous beaches on this corner of the Caribbean that are fun for day trips. It is perfect for those who speak French, enjoy isolated beaches and fun nature hikes.

St. Vincent & the Grenadines

A classic Grenadine experience to earn memories of a lifetime is booking rides on fishing boats that frequent between beach-ringed islands. Many people decide to charter their own boat. St. Vincent, the main island, is mostly rainforest and very lush. The small island of Bequia is very laid back. This trip is made for people who don’t have a schedule and who wish to explore and drive and spend time on their boat.

Trinidad

Trinidad takes the limelight away from its neighbor Tobago. This vibrant Caribbean island provides a lively party scene that peaks during one of the greatest Carnival celebrations in the world. Bursting with Creole culture, there is much to see and do. Their annual Carnival party rivals that of Rio.

Tobago

The tiny companion of Trinidad, Tobago offers everything the larger island lacks: fun in the water, gorgeous nature surroundings and resorts. It is ideal for traditional beach holidays that offer no bird-watching or diving activities planned.

Turks & Caicos

A multitude of tiny little islands with idyllic beaches and beautiful turquoise waters aching to be discovered; nothing is very busy here, even the world renowned diving sites. Beachcombers, boaters, divers and those who want to be mellow on the sand can relax and unwind here.

US Virgin Islands

The US Virgin Islands are the initial Caribbean location for many Americans to travel to. They offer all of the same comforts of home. St. Croix features more cultural attractions and natural attractions, along with St. John, while St. Thomas is very commercial. This is a great option for Americans without passports, those who love nature and staying near a mega-resort.

Plan a trip to Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Paris, France

Plan a Trip

Commonly known as Sacre-Coeur Basilica or Sacre-Coeur, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Paris, France, is Roman Catholic and minor basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The basilica is a very popular landmark in the city of Paris and is located at the highest point in the city, on the summit of the butte Montmartre. The Sacre-Coeur Basilica was designed by architect Paul Abadie. The construction took nearly 40 years to complete, starting in 1875 and finishing in 1914. It wasn’t officially consecrated until after World War 1 in 1919.

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is actually a double monument, serving as a dedication to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, which was a popular practice and well-known Roman Catholic devotion. The basilica also serves a cultural monument, serving as a national penance for the excesses of the Second Empire.

Sitting upon the highest point in Paris, the Sacre-Coeur is simply amazing. Due to its location, visitors can get great views of Paris, with even better views of the city once you climb to the basilica’s dome. It is quite easy to get to Sacre-Coeur by Metro, where you can take the tram the rest of the way or walk up the hills many steps.

The neighborhood at the bottom of the hill is not the best neighborhood in Paris, so be sure to watch your valuables. It is often recommended that visitors tour the neighborhood of Montmartre on their way up to the Basilica. Tourists can begin their journey at the famous Moulin Rouge, making their way up the hill. Along the path towards the basilica are two streets that feature French gastronomy. There is a secret museum at the top of the hill where tourists can view some of the works from famous artists who lived in the neighborhood, including: Picasso, Toulouse Lautrec, and Utrillo.

The Montmartre neighborhood is one of the trendiest

Travel to Bourbon Street, New Orleans

Travel

Rue Bourbon was the original name of the street since it was designed and laid out in 1721, by French engineer Adrien de Pauger. He chose this name as an au mage to the French Royal Family ruling at the time. Nowadays, Bourbon Street has become one of the more recognizable streets in the country and is a popular party destination known around the world. More than 6,000,000 visitors come to check out Bourbon Street every year, looking to enjoy its many clubs, bars, and restaurants.

Bourbon Street over the last few centuries has been home to numerous jazz clubs, gentleman’s clubs, burlesque, and vaudeville performances – which has served as the modern day inspiration of a party atmosphere that the street is currently known for. These days, Bourbon Street offers more than the exotic striptease clubs and nightlife options; it is also home to many world class restaurants, upscale lounges, and numerous traditional jazz clubs.

The Big Easy is Party Central

The street itself is the attraction, offering a carnival of sights, sounds, and plenty of opportunities for food and drink. The city of New Orleans shuts down vehicle traffic on the street, which turns Bourbon Street into a pedestrian mall each evening, allowing the people to come down and let their hair down and to walk the strip unimpeded. New Orleans has an open-container law, which means that the patrons of Bourbon Street are allowed to or “encouraged” to roam the street with drinks in their hand. Beer in a “go-cup” makes it easy to walk the street with a popular late night drink. Other staple cocktails include the “Hand Grenade” and the “Hurricane.”

Each night the party starts at the intersection of Bourbon Street and Canal Street, where the street fills with dancers and brass bands. Bourbon Street extends down thirteen blocks to Esplanade Avenue, where it runs under an endless row of clubs, bars, and restaurants; beneath the beautiful cast-iron balconies.

Mardi Gras

During the early spring’s Carnival season, many travelers come from all around to take in Mardi Gras, celebrating “Fat Tuesday” with the parties lasting throughout the day and night. This event features the traditional throwing and catching of beads from the famous Bourbon Street balconies as part of the festivities. Nowadays, these beads can be found on visitors as they sport their beaded treasures 365 days of the year.

Bachelorette Parties and More

Bourbon Street has become the mecca for those looking to have a good time, and has become a prime destination for events like bachelor and bachelorette parties. During the Southern Decadence Festival, which falls on Labour Day Weekend, Bourbon Street hosts many gay-friendly parties and festivals. Many of these festivals last the entire week.

With its famous laissez-faire attitude and lively party atmosphere, it is clear why Bourbon Street has become so popular. You are sure to find some excitement on Bourbon Street, so come on down and grab some beads; it’s Mardi Gras 365 days a year.

Visit Niagara Falls, Canada

Places to Visit

The 3 waterfalls that straddle the international border between the United States and Canada are collectively known as Niagara Falls. These falls are located between the state of New York and the province of Ontario. The falls form the southern portion of the Niagara Gorge.

The largest of the 3 waterfalls is called Horseshoe Falls. The middle sized one is known as American Falls. Lastly, the smallest is Bridal Veil Falls. Horseshoe Falls is situated mainly on the Canadian side and American Falls is aptly named due to its entire location being on the American side. These two falls are separated by Goat Island. The smallest waterfall, Bridal Veil Falls are also found on American soil. This one is separated by Luna Island from the other falls. Originally, in 1819, the international boundary line was drawn through Horseshoe Falls. The boundary has been in dispute for ages due to construction and natural erosion.

The combined falls make up the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. Situated on the Niagara River, which in turn drains into Lake Ontario, the falls form a vertical drop of more than 50 meters or 165 feet. Within North America, Horseshoe Falls is considered to be the most powerful waterfall. These measurements are derived by flow rate and vertical height. The falls are located 121 kilometers or 75 miles south-southeast of Toronto and 27 kilometers or 17 miles north-northwest of Buffalo, New York, between the twin cities of Niagara Falls, New York and Niagara Falls, Ontario.

When glaciers receded during the end of the last ice age, known as the Wisconsin glaciation, Niagara Falls were formed. Water from the newly formed Great Lakes derived a path through the Niagara Escarpment on route to the Atlantic. Even though they are not particularly high, the Niagara falls are extremely wide. Every minute in high flow, more than 6 million cubic feet or 168,000 m3 of water flows over the crest line. On average, approximately 4 million cubic feet or 110,000m3 flows.

The Niagara Falls are not only an amazing feat of nature, they also provide a valuable source of hydroelectricity. Since the 19th century, the stewards of the falls have faced challenges managing the balance between commercial, recreational and industrial uses.

The height of visitor traffic happens during the best weather in the summertime. Niagara Falls offers both an evening and daytime attraction for tourists at this time of year. For example, from the Canadian side, floodlights illuminate both sides of the falls until midnight. In 2007, the annual number of visitors was approximately 20 million. In 2009, the annual rate was up to 28 million tourists. It is a great place for romantic couples, individuals and families alike.

The Maid of the Mist boat cruise is the best known and oldest tourist attraction at Niagara Falls. This boat was named for an ancient Ongiara Indian mythical character. Since 1846, it has carried numerous passengers into the rapids directly under the falls. There are a variety of cruise boats that operate from boat docks on either side of the falls.

Queen Victoria Park, situated on the Canadian side, offers extravagant manicured gardens. There are many platforms which provide excellent views of both Horseshoe Falls and American Falls. Additionally, there are underground walkways leading into observation rooms that yield the illusion of being within and among the falling waters. Skylon Tower is a nearby observation deck that gives the highest overhead view of the falls. From this place, looking in the opposite direction, one can see as far as Toronto. In Canada, the Minolta Tower, which was formerly the Konica Minolta Tower and the Seagrams Tower and are now known as the Tower Hotel, one can also enjoy a view of the falls.

Travel to Universal Studios in Hollywood, California

Travel

Universal Studios Hollywood is both a movie studio and a theme park located in Universal City; an unincorporated community of Los Angeles, California. As far as Hollywood Studios go, it is the oldest and most famous movie studio still in operation. The park was originally created to offer tours through the sets and soundstages within the real Universal Studios. Now it is the first of many fully fledged Universal Studios Theme Parks located across the world. To enter the theme park, access can only be achieved by the Metro Red Line subway transit located at Universal City Station and by other Metro bus routes.

The official marketing headline for Universal Studios is “The Entertainment Capital of LA,” though it is often marketing as “The Coolest Place in LA,” during the summer months. The Universal Studios Hollywood mascot has long been Woody Woodpecker.

Outside of the theme park, on the Universal Studios back lot, is a new, all digital facility that houses the West Coast operations of NBC Universal. This new facility is now home to NBC News, Telemundo, Comcast Sportsnet, Bravo, and Hulu among many others. Universal City is home to numerous hotels, including the Sheraton Hotels and Resorts, Universal Hilton and Towers and the Universal CityWalk, which offers a collection of restaurants and souvenir shops.

The theme park is divided into an upper and a lower section. The lower lot is where you can visit many exhibits featuring movie and television artifacts, prop exhibits, and wardrobe exhibits. There are some popular rides that can also be found in this section of the park, including the Revenge of the Mummy ride, which is an indoor roller coaster set along a “dark” backdrop; Transformers: The Ride 3D, which is the parks’ newest attraction. This one takes its guests on a thrilling ride simulator through an intense robot battlefield.

The upper lot of Universal Studios is the primary “Entertainment Center,” housing many of the parks’ top tourist attractions, rides, food vendors, and live performances. The most popular attractions in this section include, the Simpson Ride, where guest are taken through a simulated Krustyland; Terminator 2: 3D, which features a special effects barrage on the senses; Water World – A Live Sea Spectacular – an exciting and entertaining acrobatics show; and Shrek 4-D, which is a family based film that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Plan a trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Lake Bay, Florida

Plan a Trip

Disney’s Animal Kingdom was the last of four theme parks to be built in Bay Lake, Florida at the Walt Disney World Resort. The park opened on April 22, 1998, becoming the second largest theme park in the world, behind only Jackson, New Jersey’s Six Flags Great Adventure. It is the single largest Disney theme park in the world, covering a whopping 500 acres. It is also the first Disney theme park entirely based around animal conservation, a philosophy that was actually pioneered by Walt Disney himself.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an accredited Zoo and Animal Park by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which means the park has met or exceeded the standards for research, education and conservation. The park hosts nearly 10 million visitors every year, making it the seventh most visited park in the world.

The parks official icon is the “Tree of Life,” which is a 145-foot-tall or 44 m, 50 foot wide artificial tree.

The park has been divided into seven themed areas, with another, the Oasis, serving as the park’s entrance. The Oasis also features many animal habitats and main paths that lead deeper into the park.

Africa Theme – This park is set in a fictional east African village called Harambe. According to the legends, Harambe has been a self-governing village after a peaceful revolution in 1961. Today, this area contains many great animal exhibits while also serving as the starting point for tourists and students to observe Africa’s animals in their natural habitats.

Asia Theme – The Asian themed section was the first to be added to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, when it opened in 1999. The park is also set in a fictional located called Anandapur, which translates to mean “Place of Many Delights.” Anandapur has two distinct settings, the riverside village of Anandapur, and Serka Zong, which is a foothills location on the Himalayan Mountains.

Avatar: World of Pandora – This park is currently being built. It has been in the works since September, 2011, when Walt Disney Parks and Resorts struck a deal with James Cameron and his Lightstorm Entertainment production company, and Fox Filmed Entertainment to develop a theme park based on James Cameron’s Avatar Film franchise.

DinoLand USA – This theme park was inspired by the general public’s desire and curiosity about dinosaurs. The Dino Institute offers many great facilities surrounding the park which feature attractions designed around the long-extinct dinosaurs. There are also animals on display in DinoLand USA.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch – This section is geared towards families and small children. Guests are asked to hop aboard the 3 foot 4 inch narrow Wildlife Express Train for a short trip to the area and when leaving the area. Guests first enter the area called Habitat Habit!, where guests can learn about the protected Cottontop Tamarins, learning about these endangered species as they move about in their natural homes. Guests will also learn how to provide an animal habitat for areas around their own home.

Discovery Island – Located in the center of the park, Discovery Island is situated in the middle of the Discovery River waterway. It is considered the “central hub” of the Animal Kingdom Park. The Tree of Life, the parks iconic feature is also located in this section and the tree is surrounded by several animal enclosures and trails.

Top Vacations Ski Resorts

Vacation Destinations

Of course, maxing and relaxing on a white sandy beach is ideal for many vacationers; however, some people prefer the snowy mountains. Avid skiers who enjoy the slopes may have a ski destination as their definition of paradise. Cities all over the world, from Aspen to Zermatt offer a host of world-class ski resorts. The possibilities are practically endless when planning your next downhill adventure. Be sure to pack some hot cocoa and extra layers so that you can enjoy the weather to its fullest!

Aspen, Colorado

If skiing with the rich and famous has you excited, then Aspen is where you want to head. It is comprised of 4 mountains that are not linked. This ski resort located in the beautiful Colorado Mountains accommodates all abilities by offering a variety of terrain suitable for every level of skier.

Aspen Mountain is home to steep bumps and offers a selection of groomed intermediate runs. This mountain is an awesome choice for expert skiers. They have the option of accessing hundreds of acres of terrain off the backside of the mountain. Aspen has a reputation for being one of the top resorts for those who have extra money and therefore, some may find it quite a bit more expensive.

Cortina, Italy

The Cortina Ski Resort in Italy is perhaps where Alberto “La Bomba” Tomba began practicing. The Italian Alps and the city served as the host of the 1956 Olympic Games. Life in Cortina revolves around a street without traffic, similar to that of Zermatt, Switzerland. Cortina happens to be one of the very first ski resort cities and is famous for its style and splendor.

Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

Mont-Tremblant has been a paradise for skiers since 1939. The French Canadian zest for life combines with luxury here. This happens to be the best-known ski resort in Eastern Canada. It holds the prestigious title of being the first resort to open in Canada and the second one within North America. Situated only an hour outside of Montreal, it is an excellent vacation base.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe offers the largest vertical drop in the vicinity. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque ski resorts around. The New England charm is cozy and welcoming. There are 2 ski areas: Spruce Park and Mount Mansfield. Spruce Peak backs on the terrain of Smugglers’ Notch; making it one of the few American resorts that offer a lift-link to another resort. There are more than 60 restaurants and 90 shops to ensure that visitors do not trek too far away during their visit.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Chamonix was the proud host in 1924 of the world’s first Winter Olympic Games. It ranks among the elite of contenders searching for the title of the “World’s Most Famous Ski Resort.” Situated at the base of Mont-Blanc, it measures as the second highest peak in Europe and the highest peak in the Alps. The elevation at the top reaches 15,771 feet. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc holds bragging rights for its vertical drop which reaches a whopping 9209 feet. As well, it offers one of the longest runs in the world. Vallee Blanche stretches out to 13. 7miles.

Banff/Lake Louise, Alberta

Found in the heart of Canada’s Banff National Park, Lake Louise offers a gorgeous getaway. It is ranked as one of the most scenic mountain resorts in all of North America; some would argue in the world. There are 3 different ski areas that make up Banff/Lake Louise: Sunshine Village, Mystic Ridge/Mount Norquay and Lake Louise. These ski areas are relatively close only approximately 31 miles apart from each other.

According to the Insider’s Guide to the Best Canadian Skiing, Norquay has been labeled “an unforgiving brute, legendary for its monster moguls and unrelenting vertical.”

Vail, Colorado

Legendary Vail describes itself as “America’s favorite resort.” It is ranked among the top 5 in the worlds all around ski resorts. Being the largest single ski location in the USA, Vail provides approximately 5300 acres of skiable terrain. It is also home to the fastest high-speed detachable quads on one mountain. Vail showcases much more with a variety of museums, dog sledding, art galleries, hockey, ballooning, snowmobiling and many more activities.

Zermatt, Switzerland

The majority rank Zermatt as being the top resort in Switzerland; even though St. Moritz is more popular and the neighboring Gstaad is one of the best-known resorts in the world. The village is extremely peaceful due to its vehicle-free environment. Exceptionally picturesque, Zermatt holds the record for the second biggest lift-served vertical drop. Thanks to its altitude and the snowmakers on the lower slopes, it receives vast snowfalls.

Kitzbuhel, Austria

Even though the title of liveliest ski resort in Europe belongs to St. Anton, Kitzbuhel is crowned Pearl of the Alps. Innsbruck may be home to one of the most beautiful cities since the International Olympic Committee voted they host the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics; however, Kitzbuhel offers the most famous holiday resort within the Austrian Tyrol. This village is over 700 years old! Visitors enjoy the rustic charm of the alpine village. In the winter of 1892, skiing officially began here and has been ongoing since!

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

The best skiing in North America can be found at Whistler Blackcomb. The largest vertical drop is located here. Over 30 years and an investment of $600 million dollars, this charming village provides every item skiers and snowboarders could possibly want: more than 100 restaurants catering to everything from Thai, Mediterranean, Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Greek and French cuisine, tremendous shopping and numerous cafes.

After a long day out in the elements and physically working hard on the mountain, enjoying great food is a must. During the past decade, Whistler consistently was voted by North Americans as being the best North American Ski Resort. It has surpassed many other mountains as a strong contender for the much disputed title of being the Greatest Ski Resort in the world. It is repeatedly ranked by the Japanese as their favorite international destination.

Plan a trip to the Zocalo, Mexico City, Mexico

Plan a Trip

The Zocalo is the main square located in the heart of Mexico City. Known simply as the “Arms Square” or Main Square,” today it goes by its more formal title Constitution Square or Plaza de la Constitucion. However, the name does not come from any of the Mexican constitutions that have governed the country but comes from the 1812 Cadiz Constitution, which was signed in Spain. These days, the park is almost always called Zocalo.

Plans had been made to erect a column as a monument to Independence, though only a base, or zocalo, was ever constructed. Long ago, the plinth was destroyed, but the name lingers on. Other Mexican towns and cities have also adopted the name zocalo to refer to their main plazas.

Since the Aztec times, the Zocalo has been a gathering for the Mexicans, having been the site of for royal proclamations, Independence ceremonies, Mexican ceremonies, the swearing in of viceroys, and many modern religious events. The Zocalo also holds many yearly festivals including Holy Week and Corpus Christi, while also receiving heads of state and a venue for national protest and national celebrations. The Zocalo Park has been a part of Mexico City’s geography and city planning for more than 700 years. The Zocalo is just one block away from the Templo Mayor, which according to Aztec legend and mythology, was considered the center of the universe.

The park is considered the beating heart of Mexico’s capital; it also served as the main center of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan. Located just a few meters from the park are several majestic colonial buildings and pre-Hispanic ruins. Surrounding the park is a large cross section of Mexico City peoples and businesses, including: workers, bankers, business executives, street vendors, fashionistas, buskers, and dancers.

The Zocalo takes up a whole city block and is considered one of the largest squares in the world where people gather for cultural and civic celebrations and events. Over the many years the Zocalo has undergone numerous renovations and incarnations. Many of these different phases can be seen in scale models found in the Zocalo metro station.

Travel to the Palace of Versailles, France

Travel

The Palace of Versailles once served as the centre of government and former French royal residence; however now it serves mainly as a national landmark. Located in the city of Versailles, France, the palace is located 16 km southwest of Paris. Versailles was once the centre of the French court, serving as one of the grandest theatres of European absolutism.

Built from around 1631 to 1634, the original residence was used primarily as a private retreat and hunting lodge for Louis XIII and his family. Under the guidance of Louis XIV, the private retreat was transformed during 1661-1710 into a massive and extravagant complex. The complex was surrounded by French and English stylized gardens, with numerous details that were designed to glorify the king.

Architects Robert de Cotte, Louis La Vau, and Jules Hardouin-Mansart were commissioned with the design of the additions, while the interior design was handled by Charles Le Brun. Andre Le Notre, was the landscape artist that designed the symmetrical French gardens, which included ornate fountains featuring “magically” still water. The ornate fountains represented the sweeping power of the king over nature and the power of humanity over nature.

The Galerie des Glaces or Hall of Mirrors and other Grand Apartments or State Rooms are among the most famous rooms in the palace. The Galerie des Glaces features 17 wide arcaded mirrors that oppose 17 windows and ornately painted ceilings, which support glass chandeliers. In addition there are many gilded statues. Located on either side of the Galerie is the equally striking Salon de la Guerre or Salon of War or the Salon de la Paix or Salon of Peace. The Treaty of Versailles was signed by the Allies and Germany in 1919, inside the Galerie des Glaces.

Other important sites on the palace complex include the Grand Trianon, which was finished in 1688 and the Petit Trianon, completed nearly a 100 years later. These served as the private residences for the royal family and their guests.

During a period of restoration, Louis-Phillipe oversaw the construction of the Museum of French History, which was founded in 1837. The museum was dedicated “to all the glories of France,” though much of the 2,000 sculptures and 6,000 paintings remain sequestered away from the public.

In 1979, UNESCO designated the gardens and the palace complex a World Heritage Site. The French Government initiated a wide-ranging renovation and repair of the site following a devastating winter storm in 1989. This storm destroyed more than 1,000 trees on the palace grounds. Some 10,000 trees were lost after a severe windstorm in 1999, including many trees that were planted by Napoleon Bonaparte and Marie Antoinette. The windstorm also damaged the chateau.

It is estimated that nearly 6 million patrons visit the palace every year.

Visit Grand Central Terminal, New York

Places to Visit

In Midtown Manhattan, New York City, USA, GCT or Grand Central Terminal can be found. This former intercity railroad terminal is a popular commuter railroad that is located at Park Avenue and 42nd Street. It has 44 platforms that serve 67 tracks, making it the largest facility of its kind. GCT was named for and built by the New York Central Railroad during the height of American long-distance passenger rail travel.

There are 2 levels that comprise GCT and both are situated underground. There are 41 tracks on the upper level and 26 tracks on the lower level. In rail yards and along platforms the total number of tracks is greater than 100. Approximately 19 hectares or 48 acres are covered by the terminal area.

Penn Station

Penn Station, constructed from 1902 to 1911, is an even grander railway station to visit. It was designed by Charles McKim and modeled on the ancient Baths of Caracalla in Rome. During 1963-1966, acts of vandalism destroyed the impressive landmark. It was later replaced by an office tower and a banal railway station.

GCT almost fell victim to a similar fate; however, the New York City’s landmark preservation laws saved the day. These new laws were implemented as a result of the public outcry over the demolition of Penn Station and thankfully, the building was able to remain standing and avoid its’ date with the wrecking ball.

A New Railway Station

Not long after the accident, the New York Central Railroad came up with plans to establish a larger Grand Central Station. The cost to construct and electrify the construction of the new railway station was compensated by the use of air rights. It became possible for the tracts to be paved and covered all the way to 49th Street, thanks to electrification. Additionally, developers were capable of constructing buildings on top of the railway; although, they had to pay an extra amount of money to the railway company to cover their “air rights.” Interestingly enough, even the air space on top of low-level buildings can be sold in this manner in order to enable the construction of taller, neighboring buildings.

A competition was held in 1903 for the design of the new Grand Central Station. William K. Vanderbilt II, a descendant of the Commodore, was awarded the honour from the firm Reed and Stem.

Main Concourse, Grand Central Terminal

Reed and Stem collaborated with Warren and Wetmore for the Main Concourse portion. The overall layout and design was completed by Reed and Stem; however, the Beaux-Arts style and the architectural details can be attributed to Warren and Wetmore.

Terminal City

Of course, the entirety of the project does not just encompass a new railway station. A new complex of apartments and office buildings, known as Terminal City, was also developed. The design behind this was a “city in the city.” This concept is similar to Rockefeller Center which was constructed decades later. Particular attention was given to how traffic would circulate. Cars and pedestrians are separated by uniquely designed elevated ramps. These ramps lead traffic around the railway station and are called the Park Avenue Viaduct.

A Grand Design

The Beaux-Arts design on the building’s façade on 42nd street has become a famous landmark. Corinthian columns flank large arches. These columns are topped by an artistic sculpture group designed by Jules-Alexis Coutan. The customized sculptures are 15 meters or 50 feet high. They depict the God of Commerce, Mercury and are supported by Hercules and Minerva to represent moral and mental strength.

The main concourse is quite an impressive place to visit. It is 160 feet wide, 470 feet long and 150 feet high, or 43x49x143 meters. Paul Helleu, a French artist painted the ceiling. The design consists of zodiac constellations which were derived from a medieval manuscript. Allegedly, it was painted backwards so that the stars are shown in the way they would be seen by a God and not by man.

There are 6 arched windows that are 75 feet or 23 meters high. This is how light enters the main concourse area. A Botticino marble double staircase was designed after the large staircase found in the Opera Garnier in Paris. This staircase connects the entrance on Vanderbilt Avenue with the main concourse. Tennessee marble makes up the concourse floor and Caen stone compliments the walls.