St. Petersburg, Russia: Asia’s Window to Europe

View on Admiralty from Saint Isaac’s Cathedral in Saint Petersburg

St. Petersburg was once Russia’s imperial capital city. Now the city is one of the busiest and most populated in Russia; it is also one of the most beautiful and best travelled cities in the world.

Due to its colorful history and strategic location the city has a lot to offer to their valued tourists. A few of the things the city offers include the Historic Centre of Saint Petersburg and Related Groups of Monuments (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), museums showcasing visual arts, intrinsic architecture, nightlife, and unique culture and tradition. A travel to this charming city is indeed a memorable and enjoyable experience.

BASIC INFORMATION

St. Petersburg (1)

LOCATION

St. Petersburg was established in May 27, 1703 by Tsar (emperor) Peter the Great. During the years 1713 to 1728 and 1732 to 1918 it was the imperial capital of the country.

It is strategically located on the north-western region of Russia. Some say it is the northern most city in the world. It is the western most city in Russia, making it the border between Europe and Asia.

With a total area of 1439 square kilometers it ranks as the second largest city in the country (following Moscow). Included in its area are several islands which are divided by rivers and lakes. 

The layout and geography of the city is similar to Venice; with that, some people dub the city as one of “Venice of the North.”

The highest elevation of the city is at Orekhovaya Hill in the south at 175.9 meters and the lowest is at the western areas measuring 4 meters above sea level. Floods usually occur on the western area due to low elevation. To address this condition, dams were constructed and the land was artificially increased.

CLIMATE

One could generally say that St. Petersburg has a humid continental climate which is influenced by the adjacent Baltic Sea. Summer is short, warm and humid. The warmest months are from June to August, with July as the warmest month in the year.

Most tourists visit the city during June to attend to the well-known White Nights. If one is not after White Nights, the best time to visit (because the weather is perfect) is from September to October.

On the other hand, the coldest months are from November to March with temperatures dropping below 0 degrees Celsius. Snow is also very common during winter. From April to May snow starts to thaw leaving sludge all over the place.

DEMOGRAPHICS

In the 2010 national census, St. Petersburg has a total population of almost 5 million. Majority of these are of Russian nationality (80.1%), followed by Ukrainian, Belarusians, Tatar, Armenian, Jewish, Uzbek, Tajik, Azeri, Georgian, Moldovan, and Finns.

The official language spoken here is Russian.

TRANSPORTATION

Prior to entry to the city one must prepare necessary paper requirements and visa.

The most convenient way of entry is by plane. The nearest international and domestic airport is at Pulkovo Airport. It is used to connect the country to European countries.

Airlines that fly to St. Petersburg include Aeroflot, Air France, Austrian Airlines, British Airlines, Delta Airlines, Transaero , and many more. For budget airlines, one could fly to Lappeenranta Airport in Finland and take a train to St. Petersburg.

Pulkovo Airport (2)

Other ways to enter the city is by train (approximately it is 3 and a half hour train ride from Helsinki, Finland), bus, and boat.

Getting around the city is also a breeze. Since the 1800s the city had made ways to make travelling easier, faster, and convenient. Public transportation includes trams, buses, trains, and taxis.

Tram on Moscow Gate Square in Saint Petersburg

TOP 5 THINGS TO EXPERIENCE

There are indeed many places to see and visit while at St. Petersburg. Due to the long list of things to experience here, we have listed the five most important that should not be left out.

CULTURE

To top the list, one must experience the unique culture of St. Petersburg and the best way to do that is having a trip to the HISTROIC CENTRE OF SAINT PETERSBURG AND RELATED GROUPS OF MONUMENTS.

This is a collection of monuments and buildings that depicts the colorful history and culture of the city. Most buildings showcase a Baroque Neoclassical and traditional Russian-Byzantine style and influence. In 1991, UNESCO recognized this uniqueness and listed as one of the World Heritage Site.

The following are included in the site: Historic Center of St. Petersburg, Historical Part of the Town of Kronstadt, Fortress of Kronstadt, Historical Centre of the Town of Petrokrepost, Oreshek Fortress on Orekhovy Island, Palaces and Park Ensembles of the Town of Pushikin and its Historical Centre, Palaces and Parks of the town of Pavlovsk and its Historical Centre, Pulkovo Observatory, Palace and Park Ensemble of the Village of Ropsha, Gostilitsy, Taytsy, Gatchina and its Historical Centre, Ensemble of the Coastal Monastery of St. Sergius, Palace and Park Ensemble of the Town of Strelna and its Historical Centre, Palace and Park Ensemble “Mikhailovka”, Znamenka”, “Sobstvennaya Datcha”, “Sergeevka”, Palace and Park Ensemble of the Town of Petrodvorets and its Historical Centre, Palace and Park Ensembles of the Town of Lomonsov and its Historical Centre, Pavlovo-Koltushi, Zinoviev’s Estate Shuvalov’s Estate, Viazemsky’s Estate, Sestroretsky Razliv, “The Penates”, Cemetery of the Village of Komarovo, Lindulovskaya Rotcsha, River Neva, Izhorsky Bench (Glint), Dudergofs Heights, Koltushi Elevation, Yukkovskaya Elevation, and the Green Belt of Glory.

MUSEUMS

After a cultural trip one must not miss visiting museums in St. Petersburg particularly The Hermitage and Erarta Museum.

The former museum, THE HERMITAGE is considered to be one of the world’s biggest art museum.

The Hermitage Museum itself could be found inside Winter Palace which is one of the six historic museums in the State Hermitage. The museum serves as home to the best, oldest, and greatest art, treasures, and antiquities.

Winter Palace which houses The Hermitage (3)

On the other hand, the ERARTA MUSEUM showcases contemporary and modern Russian art. It contains more than 2000 artworks which were made by at least 140 different artists.

There are paintings, sculptures, graphics, installations, and many more. The artists who made these artworks are either professionals or amateurs.

Erarta Museum (4)

SOUNDS AND MUSIC

From visual arts, we now proceed to sounds, music, and performing arts. And perhaps the most famous and historic theater is MARIINSKY THEATRE.

The said theater hosted and premiered several masterpieces. Currently, mainstay performers include the Mariinsky Ballet, Mariinsky Opera, and Mariinsky Orchestra.

Mariinsky Theatre (5)

WHITE NIGHTS

The famous WHITE NIGHTS happen when the sun is still up even at midnight or early morning. One can feel the sun almost 24 hours.

Because of this phenomenon, there are festivities, performances, concerts, festivals and parties. This happens from June to July rendering hotels fully booked.

11om at Ploshchad Vosstaniya St. Petersburg on June 2006

CHURCHES

Another pride of the city is its impressive churches. These churches are admired for its beauty, grandeur, and intricate design. A few churches are listed below.

ST. ISAAC’S CATHEDRAL is the largest Orthodox cathedral in the country.

Saint Isaac’s Cathedral (6)

Another church within the city is CHURCH OF THE SAVIOR ON SPILLED BLOOD or the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ.

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood (7)

SMOLNY CATHEDRAL was once an outstanding orthodox church. But due to disapproval of royal successors and destruction due to calamities, the church decayed and was discontinued for use.

Currently the church is used as a concert hall and the adjacent buildings are used for government offices.

Smolny Cathedral (8)

References:
“St Petersburg – Lonely Planet.” Lonely Planet. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg>.
“St.Petersburg, Russia. Travel to Saint-Petersburg.” St.Petersburg, Russia. Travel to Saint-Petersburg. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://www.petersburg-russia.com/>.
“St. Petersburg Tourism.” And Vacations: 1,376 Things to Do in St. Petersburg, Russia. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://www.tripadvisor.com.ph/LangRedirect?returnTo=/Tourism-g298507-St_Petersburg_Northwestern_District-Vacations.html&pool=A&origin=en_US&auto=3&m=12082>.
“Saint Petersburg.” Travel Guide. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://wikitravel.org/en/Saint_Petersburg>.
“Saint Petersburg.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Petersburg>.
“Welcome to St. Petersburg!” Saint-Petersburg.com. Web. 25 Jan. 2015. <http://www.saint-petersburg.com/>.

Images:
1. Graham. View from the Colonnade, St Isaac’s Cathedral, St Petersburg. September 2006. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
2. Avdeev, Dmitry. Pulkovo Airport in St Petersburg, Russia. August 2005. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
3. A. Savin. Saint Petersburg, Russia. Palace Embankment, house 38 (Winter Palace). May 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
4. Peterburg23. Saint Petersburg (Russia), Vasilievsky Island. 2010. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
5. A. Savin. Saint Petersburg, Russia. Mariinsky Theatre. May 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
6. Florstein. Saint Isaac’s Cathedral. July 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
7. Victogrigas. St. Petersburg Russia Church Park. June 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.
8. Shuklin, Geaorge. Smolniy Cathedral, Saint Petersburg. August 2007. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 25, 2015.

http://laurenceourac.com/st-petersburg-russia-asias-window-to-europe/

Beautiful Berlin

European travels and tours often include the city of Berlin in Germany.

Central Berlin

BERLIN

Berlin is a city of many happenings. From sunrise to sunset there are many things that could be done. One would enjoy a lovely day strolling down the streets looking at street art, admiring historic sites including palaces and museums.

One could take an afternoon break at one of the cafes. The fun continues until sundown; there are a number of clubs and bars along the city.

Get ready, as we take you to an adventure along the mesmerizing streets of Berlin.

Berlin at Night (1)

GENERAL INFORMATION

TOPOGRAPHY

Berlin is the capital and largest city in Germany. It could be found on the northeastern region. It occupies a total land area of 891.85 square kilometers, mostly plains; the highest point is at 34meters.

CLIMATE

The climate here is generally oceanic. The coldest months are from November to February with temperatures ranging from -2 degrees Celsius to 3 degree Celsius. The warmest months are from June to August with temperatures from 12 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius.

PEOPLE

In December 2013 the total population in Berlin reached more than 3.5 million. A huge percentage of the population are foreigners or are descendants of migrants. There are also a number of non-indigenous communities residing in the city.

Berlin is a multi-lingual city. Citizens can speak and understand German, Turkish, English, Russian, Arabic, Polish, Kurdish, Vietnamese, Serbian, Croatian, and French.

Majority of the citizens (60 percent) have no religion. Less than 20 percent are Protestants and the remaining are Catholics, Muslims, and Christians.

TRANSPORTATION

There is a superb transportation system in Berlin. There are different ways of getting in and out of the country as well as getting around the city.

Flying into the city is the easiest and most comfortable way to get in. There are two airports in the city: Tegel International Airport and Schonefeld Airport. The first airport is located northwest of the city.

It is now used for international and domestic flights. The later airport is at southeast of the city and mostly used for budget airlines and chartered flights.

There are reports that a new airport, Berlin Brandenburg Airport is under construction. Once this new airport is completed, abovementioned airports would be closed down. Construction of the new airport is done in hopes to unify the city.

Other ways to enter the city is by bus, train, and car. These connect Berlin to other major German cities and European countries as well as Russia.

Once inside the city there are various modes of transportation including bus, taxis, tram, trains, and subways. And for those willing and capable, take a day or two to go on a bicycle trip. It is easy to take a bike trip around the city due to its relatively flat plains.

THINGS TO SEE

Below are a few of the things that one could and must see in the city.

BERLIN WALL

The infamous Berlin Wall was built to divide the city between east and west from 1961 to 1989. The wall included several guard towers.

Other names of the wall include death strip, wall of shame, and anti-fascist protection rampart. From the years 1990 to 1992 the wall was brought down. Bringing the wall down was the start of unifying the city.

Remaining Berlin Wall, often known as East Side Gallery (2)

To commemorate those who died in attempts to cross the wall memorial graves were built adjacent to the wall.

Memorial to the victims of the Berlin Wall (3)

There are several museums located in Museum Island, Berlin. These include Pergamon Museum, Altes Museum, Bode Museum, Egyptian Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Neues Museum, Berlin Cathedral, Lustgarten, and James Simon Gallery. Two of these museums are featured here.

NEUES MUSEUM (NEW MUSEUM)

The New Museum was built from 1843 to 1855 north of Altes Museum (Old Museum). During World War II (1939) the museum was closed and severely damaged. Year later, 2009, the museum was once again open to public. On display include Egyptian and Prehistory and Early History collections.

Neues Museum (4)

ALTES MUSEUM (OLD MUSEUM)

Construction of the Altes Museum occurred from the years 1823 to 1830 following a neoclassical style. Since the date of establishment until 1845 the museum was known as the Royal Museum.

Included in the exhibit are Prussian royal family art collection and collection of antiquities. In the year 1999, the museum was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Altes Museum (5)

BRANDENBURG GATE

One of the most famous landmarks in Germany is the Brandenburg Gate – a triumphal arch built in the 18th century. The arch or gate symbolizes both the riotous and peaceful times of Europe and Germany.

Brandenburg Gate (6)

CHARLOTTENBURG PALACE

The Charlottenburg Palace was built in the 17th century and was renovated in the 18th century. Currently it is the only existing royal residence in the city which was built in those years.

The interior of the palace was inspired by both baroque and rococo styles. Surrounding the palace is a garden with a belvedere (tea house), mausoleum, theatre, and pavilion.

Charlottenburg Palace (7)

REICHSTAG BUILDING

Reichstag Building is an important landmark both culturally and architecturally. Construction of the building was finished in 1894. Until 1933 the building was used by the Diet.

But during World War II the building was destroyed and abandoned. In 1990, when Germany was united, the building was restored and used as the modern parliament.

Reichstag Building (8)

VICTORY COLUMN

This monument in Berlin was built in 1864 in commemoration in honor of Prussian victory. After successive victories, a bronze sculpture of Victoria was added on top.

Victory Column (9)

BERLIN CATHEDRAL

The Supreme Parish and Collegiate Church or simply Berlin Cathedral is an evangelical church in the heart of Berlin. Its architecture and façade is impressive and a one of a kind.

Berlin Cathedral (10)

ST. HEDWIG’S CATHEDRAL

Aside from having an evangelical church, there is also a Roman Catholic Church. St. Hedwig’s Cathedral built in 1773 making it the first Catholic Church in Prussia. It serves as the seat of the archbishop of Berlin.

St. Hedwig’s Cathedral (11)

References:
“Berlin.” Travel Guide. Web. 24 Jan. 2015. <http://wikitravel.org/en/Berlin>.
“Berlin.” Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation. Web. 24 Jan. 2015. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin>.
“Berlin – Lonely Planet.” Lonely Planet. Web. 24 Jan. 2015. <http://www.lonelyplanet.com/germany/berlin>.
“Official Tourism Website.” Berlin. Web. 24 Jan. 2015. <http://www.visitberlin.de/en>.
“Top 30 Things to Do in Berlin, Germany: Berlin Attractions.” – Find What to Do Today, This Weekend, or in February. Web. 24 Jan. 2015. <http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187323-Activities-Berlin.html>.

Images:
1. Debowski, Robert. Berlin at night. November 2005. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
2. Remaining stretch of the Wall. August 2006. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
3. Lyricmac. Memorial to the Victims of the Wall, Berlin. October 1986. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
4. Gryffindor. Exterior of the Neues Museum in Berlin. October 2009. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
5. Avda. Altes Museum in Berlin. March 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
6. Wolf, Thomas. The Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany. May 2008. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
7. Ernstol. Charlottenburg Berlin. April 2014. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
8. Field, Matthew. Reichstag Building. November 2009. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
9. Wolf, Thomas. Berlin Victory Column. April 2012. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
10. A Savin. Berlin Cathedral. April 2013. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.
11. Lostajy. St. Hedwig’s Cathedral. October 2005. Commons.wikimedia.org. Photograph. January 24, 2015.

http://laurenceourac.com/beautiful-berlin/

Croatia, a Must Visit Place in Europe

Overview

One of the best destinations for tourists are the nations in Europe. Luscious forests, rich culture and biodiversity, and mother-nature with its epic and jaw dropping sceneries.

Tourists’ probable choices are of course, the famous cities and places in the European continent such as London, or maybe Paris.

Among those spectacular countries, no one would wonder of going to other European countries, like Croatia. It may be among of the less famous must-go countries, but surely Croatia will amaze many.

Where is it located?

The landscape of the land of Croatians long awaits every tourist. The country, composed also of islands, is located in the Southeastern part of Europe.

It is to the east of the country of Italians. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Hungary, Serbia and Slovenia are among the countries which boarders Croatia.

When should it be visited?

The country has a temperate continental climate thus central and the northern part of the country may experience mountainous climate. To some it may be refreshing, and to some tourists which want to enjoy a hotter vacation in Croatia, they can probably visit the country during the spring and summer seasons.

The country also experiences winter, and not just that, it’s extremely cold out there. Therefore, to enjoy nature’s undeniable beauty, tourists should really prefer visiting the country during the warmer seasons.

What should be prepared?

Tourists should prepare themselves for something spectacular which is waiting for them to venture. Tourists must take note that Croatia is yet still a member of Schengen Area but already a part of European Union after July 2013, which means, controls on immigration still occurs.

Nationalities such as Swiss, Andorran, Monégasque, San Marinese and also citizens from Vatican City can enter the country free of Visa for up to thrice thirty days. There are foreign nationals which are also under Visa exemptions, countries like such are Albania, Argentina, Australia, Brazil and United States.

How could we get there?

Tourists can travel going to Croatia of course by flying, apparently no one could fly, so the best idea would be ride a plane. As of recently, the only non- European flights going to Croatia are Qatar and Tel Aviv.

From the Asian region, there are occasional flights from Seoul and Tokyo which are ready to cater tourists to the country. On the other hand, from the Northern America, tourists may transfer to the hub from London or Frankfurt. Croatia Airlines and Ardia Airways are two of the main airlines in Croatia.

Tourists can also travel by train or railway, or by boat and ferries but not that fast though.

What do we need to see?

Dubrovnik, considered as the jewel of Croatia, it is an old town, but its antique heritage adds along with its majestic and stunning beauty. Enjoy a serene walk along the city walls and time to reflect and enjoy Croatia’s interesting culture.

Plitvice Lake, probably a tourist could say “Nature at its best!” in Croatia. Flora and fauna’s rich biodiversity is really evident.

These 16 connecting waterfalls will make every tourists jaw fall to the ground. Enjoy the park’s luscious jungle and track its exciting trails.

Zagreb, a place in Croatia which can be compared to Prague, is a must visit for tourists for its enormous sights, bounty restaurants and enormous and electrifying night life.

Shopping and buying stuffs can be quality over quantity here for there are no bargain stuffs for sale in Zagreb. Tourists can also reflect and enjoy the holy Cathedrals such as St. Mark’s Church.

http://laurenceourac.com/croatia-a-must-visit-place-in-europe/

Conquer Iloilo’s Peaceful Isla de Gigantes

Overview

Now that the summer is fast approaching, say goodbye to the project filled school days and hectic work schedule and say hello to hot sun, cool and fresh summer breeze and nothing beats having a nice zip lying underneath the coconut tree on a white sand beach.

Well that may look like an exaggeration but that’s the ideal perfect summer, at least for most. Want to go away from the routines of city life? Travelling to the Philippines is perfect for any tourist. An island, or better to say group of islands is right there waiting for serve every tourist a once in a lifetime summer experience. Say hello to Isla de Gigantes!

Where can we find it?

It is a group of islands found along Carles and Estancia coast in Iloilo in the island of Panay, Philippines. It is composed by two gigantic and mystic islands called Isla Gigantes Sur and Norte and then surrounded by a number of islets which makes it a lot more natural and refreshing.

These hidden islands are hidden just near Boracay, where all tourists flock every year. This would be a perfect place if tourists want a calmer and more serene summer experience.

When should we visit it?

Well, visiting it during the typhoon season is surely a bad idea, but who would dare to travel during those seasons, right?

The perfect time to visit Isla de Gigantes is during summer, where everything lies under the scorching heat of the sun. Wanting a perfect vacation? Take note of the weather during travelling days and prefer to go during summer.

What should we prepare?

Well, the things tourists should prepare is their selves, their cash, passport or Visa, if required during the travel. Also, there are parts of the islands that are said to be powerless, or has no electricity during the day time.

But don’t worry they have it during the night time. Also, they must be ready for a once in a lifetime natural adventure. There are no luxurious hotels found in Gigantes, only residences allowing tourists to stay in their houses. Also, one passenger boat travels each day which leaves Estancia 2 pm while it leaves the island 9 am, better catch it!

How can we get there?

Of course, a plane would take tourists to the Philippines. From Manila, tourists can ride a plane to Roxas City, Capiz then a bus to Estancia then a two hour boat ride to the Gigantes Island.

From Iloilo city, ride a jeep to Tagbak Terminal then ride a bus going to Estancia. It would take more time to travel via Iloilo. Then ride a boat going the Gigantes Island with the same travel duration of 2 hours.

What to do and see there?

If resorts are what tourists are looking for, they must prefer the Gigantes Norte over the Sur, although both of it still doesn’t offer overnight stays.

Island hopping, never go home without trying this one, the islets are there for a purpose. Tourists should enjoy the majestic and the adventurous island hopping experiencing while staying in the island.

Tangke Salt Water Lagoon, this is a sure “wow!” experience for everyone who visits this cliff surrounded water lagoon. By the way, this is located in the Sur, enjoy dipping in this jaw-dropping natural pool.

Pawikan Cave, climbing a stiff cliff and conquering a forest, lon awaits the Pawikan Cave. Underground ambiance and rock formations await the tourists after a very difficult trek.

Parola, a lighthouse located in the Norte where tourists can first handedly navigate the island with their eyes.

Tangke Salt Water Lagoon, Isla de Gigantes Sur

Parola, Isla de Gigantes Norte

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