With pumpkin lattes on the mind, it's tough to get in the peppermint chocolate mood when winter has not yet greeted us. But if you're taking advantage of travel this winter, consider these destinations known for being a perfect winter wander-land.
12 Gorgeous Photos of Vienna, Austria
Vienna is an incredible city to be in any time of year. It's draped with Christmas lights during the holiday season, though even when the decorations come down, the ornate details on the old town architecture are a delight to see. This truly is one beautiful European city that offers much more than the eye can see. Until you experience it firsthand, however, here are some photos to lust over in the meantime.
platz vienna
vienna, austria
st stephens church austria
st stephens church vienna
city center vienna austria
Naschmarkt Vienna Austria
Christmas bow decoration vienna austria
Austria
Parliament Building Vienna Austria
Vienna Austria Christmas Markets
vienna
Vienna Austria
7 Romantic Places in Europe
7 Romantic Places in Europe
With Valentine's Day on the horizon, it's that time of year to begin imagining - or actually visiting - romantic destinations around the world. Whether you choose to go with a s/o or head there solo, these 7 places in Europe ooze romantic charm.
1. The Arno River; Florence, Italy
Firenze is filled with Renaissance art and colorfully painted buildings. Walking along the Arno River past the Ponte Vecchio is the perfect setting for a romantic stroll as you take in the beauty of the city lining the river. Walk from the river up to Piazzale Michaelangelo or Miniato to watch the sunset slowly drape over the red-tiled rooftops for a wistful experience you'll never forget.
2. Cinque Terre; Monterosso al Mare (pictured), Italy
With Italy being one of the romance capitols of Europe, I had to include another Italian destination on this list. Cinque Terre, while often crowded with tourists in the summer, earns a well-deserved spot. Walk along the trails that connect the five small towns and soak up the sights of the pastel cliffside homes along the Mediterranean coast. Bonus: you can make Cinque Terre a day trip from Florence.
3. Lake Bled; Bled, Slovenia
At picturesque Lake Bled, you'll find a mini island in the middle of the water with a church. You can row boats around the lake and row up to the island. Traditionally, for weddings at the church, the groom must carry his bride all the way up the 99 steps.
4. Neuschwanstein Castle; Bavaria, Germany
By now you've probably heard of this German castle (which inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty castle), which rests atop a hill within the Bavaria region in Southern Germany. You'll be surprised a setting this romantic exists in real life!
5. Mirabell Gardens; Salzburg, Austria
This Austrian town is where The Sound of Music takes place and was filmed. Walk by the Mirabell Gardens or among the colorful shops to feel like you stepped inside a storybook daydream.
6. Burg Square; Brugges, Belgium
You'll recognize Brussel's sibling city Brugges by the lego-like buildings in Burg Square. Stroll past the unique architecture and then head over to Minnewater Lake, where swans swimming await.
7. The Eiffel Tower; Paris, France
While in Paris, you simply must not pass up the opportunity to watch the Eiffel Tower light up at night and be there when it sparkles for the first five minutes of the hour. Even though you'll see the Eiffel Tower peeking out throughout the city, there's nothing like actually being right in front of it, marveling in its enormity. Seeing it sparkle will be something you'll never forget.
An easy and exciting way to travel (and maybe hit more than one of these destinations) is to take a cruise. Whether it's for an anniversary, honeymoon, or adventurous getaway abroad, there are endless ways to make your vacation special. Suggestion? Take an unforgettable Europe cruise with Celebrity.
What Not To Miss In Vienna: Concerts At The Schönbrunn Palace
My second visit to Vienna was earlier this year for a work trip. Since my first visit to Vienna was only a day long, my short taste of the city left me longing for more. I was in Vienna for nine days during my second trip, which left much more time to explore the city, try more foods (like sachertorte!), and learn more about the culture.
Vienna is not only the capital of Austria; it is the capital of music. With the likes of Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven hailing from the city, it is no wonder that there are plenty of ways to partake in listening to classical music. While going to the opera house is a popular option (who can beat standing-room-only tickets for only a few euros?!) I'd definitely recommend a concert at the Schönbrunn Palace.
Our large group had a private concert one July evening at the Orangery inside the palace. Before heading in, we took some time to wander around the grounds and gardens. Once we were inside, we took our seats to watch the show. To be completely honest, I was expecting good classical music but not much more than that - but I was completely blown away by how entertaining the show was!The music wasn't just good, it was incredible. And there were singers and ballerinas that accompanied some songs, which made it even more entertaining. The musicians had great stage presence and some were a little goofy to add to the humor of the show. The end felt like it came too quick, and as we were giving our applause, I didn't want it to be over. It really was that good.
They don't allow photos or video of the concert, so I don't have any personal ones (the ones on this post are from around the web). I'm hoping my memories will suffice enough until I get a chance to head back to Vienna and go to another one of these concerts.
Info:
Classical Concerts at the Orangery, Schönbrunn Palace
Show:Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Strauss Familie
Prices: Between 39-119 euros per ticket, depending on seat and time of year