#ArielJean

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L!VE~ Headliner Sunday

The Sunday headliner was none other then Ariel Jean Band. While a couple of sisters had to go be with their Dad on this fathers day Sunday, Ariel and the band kicked it though the last day of the Gold Rush Country Music Festival in Auburn. It is always a party with Ariel Jean Band. Be sure to catch them on tour as they are hitting the stages. You will not want to miss this amazing talented fun…

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Last Sprint Part 3: Berlin

This is the last blog post before I head back to the US. Time flies!

Berlin is the vibrant capital city of Germany. From its iconic landmarks to its cultural heritage, Berlin provides an unforgettable experience to every tourist. I visited specifically for its history during cold war, and to meet up with my friend.

My main purpose of this trip is to visit the Berlin Wall, which once divided the city into two parts. Many sections of this wall still remain and serve as a reminder of the struggles that the people of Berlin faced in the past. You can take a guided tour or simply walk along the wall to experience its significance.

For history buffs, the Berliner Dom or the Berlin Cathedral is a must-visit location. This magnificent building is known for its impressive architecture, stunning mosaics and paintings. The cathedral is situated on Museum Island, which also houses several other museums that tells the story of Berlin's rich history.

Berlin is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a walking tour of the city to explore its many graffiti and murals, including the famous East Side Gallery that showcases over 100 artworks on a section of the Berlin Wall. We visited a brewery that has been renovated into a museum.

Lastly, no tour of Berlin would be complete without a visit to the Tiergarten. This is one of the largest parks in Germany and is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a picnic, with beautiful gardens and plenty of open spaces.

And that concludes my journey for 4 and a half months in Europe. Gonna miss you Europa, see you till next time!

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Last Sprint Part 2: Athens

Athens is one of the ancient cities in Greece that is filled with spectacular landmarks. It is known for its rich history, art, and culture, making it a top destination for tourists from all over the world. Athens is also a modern city that hosts many events, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year.

The city's most significant and famous landmark is the Acropolis, which sits high above Athens, overlooking the city. The Acropolis contains several ancient ruins, including the Parthenon, renowned for its grandeur and iconic status.

In addition to the Acropolis, there are several other significant sites to visit in Athens, such as the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Roman Agora, and the National Archaeological Museum. These sites offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and how it has evolved over the years.

Athens also has a vibrant culture that is celebrated across the city. The city has an incredible food scene, with delicious dishes such as souvlaki, gyros, and moussaka being popular dishes for both locals and visitors. Athens also has a great nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs that stay open late into the night.

When visiting Athens, it is essential to explore the city's many neighbourhoods and explore its streets by foot. Monastiraki, Plaka, and Psyri are all great neighbourhoods to wander through and are home to many shops, cafes, and restaurants that serve delicious food and drinks.

Overall, Athens is a city that should be on every traveller's bucket list. It has a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a beautiful landscape that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. It is a city that will capture your heart and leave you longing to return.

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Last Sprint Part 1: Budapest

Before heading back to the US, I have to explore Budapest - a charming and vibrant destination that combines rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, and a bustling nightlife scene. It is known as the "Paris of the East" due to its impressive landmarks and historic charm, attracting thousands of tourists every year.

One of the most notable features of Budapest is its thermal baths and spas, which are scattered throughout the city. These baths are a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the most famous and largest medicinal spas in Europe, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and a wide range of wellness treatments.

Budapest is also home to a variety of impressive landmarks and attractions that reflect the city's rich history and culture. The Hungarian Parliament Building, located on the banks of the Danube River, is one of the most iconic buildings in Budapest and an architectural masterpiece. St. Stephen's Basilica, a magnificent cathedral named after the first King of Hungary, is another must-see landmark in the city.

The city's culinary scene is also something to rave about. Hungarian cuisine is known for its hearty and delicious dishes, such as goulash, chimney cake, and strudel. For a traditional Hungarian dining experience, visit the Great Market Hall, a grand indoor market where vendors sell fresh produce, meats, and local specialties.

Budapest is also a city that never sleeps, with plenty of nightlife options for everyone. The city's "ruin bars," located in the old Jewish district, are a unique and popular attraction. These bars are located in abandoned buildings and courtyards, giving them a quirky and alternative vibe.

I even ran into someone's proposal! Awwww.

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French v.s. American Education

The education systems in both France and the United States have different approaches to delivering education to students. While both education systems have their strengths and weaknesses, it is essential to compare the two to gain a deeper understanding of the approaches to education in both countries.

Firstly, the French education system is centralized, with a strong focus on academic achievement and intellectualism. The French education system is known for its comprehensive curriculum that emphasizes the importance of mathematics, science, and language studies. The French education system is rigorously structured with a fixed curriculum, strict class schedules, and teacher-led instruction. The students are expected to perform well academically, and students who excel are identified and further encouraged to pursue higher academic studies.

In contrast, the American education system is decentralized, with decentralized access to education, and there is more emphasis on practical and liberal arts education. The American education system encourages creativity and offers diverse learning opportunities for students. Unlike French education, there is no general curriculum in the American education system, and each state has its own curriculum. Some American schools emphasize testing and grade comparison, while others focus on social and emotional learning.

Another significant difference between the French and American education systems is funding. In France, education is considered a public service, and it is funded by the government. In America, education is funded by the local and state government. This difference in funding has a significant impact on the quality of education that students receive. The American education system tends to have more funding issues since it is based on the state's income, which tends to fluctuate.

A significant contrast in the classroom dynamic is also evident. In the French education system, teacher-student relationships tend to be formal and respectful. Academic progress is based on performance in standardized tests, and intellectualism is valued over creativity or personal expression. In contrast, the American education system emphasizes building relationships between teachers and students, creating an open environment encouraging self-expression, free speech, and individuality.

While the formal, centralized French education system is seen as beneficial to academic performance, the American education system's open approach to education is known for its benefits to creativity and encouraging individuality.

In conclusion, while both systems seek to provide education to their citizens, differences in approaches, curriculum, and funding mechanisms preclude easy comparisons or broad conclusions. Both systems, however, have proven themselves proficient in their methods in producing well-educated and innovative students. Thus, the best course of action is to study both systems to adapt strengths to unify a more comprehensive approach to education.

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A Journey of Remembrance: Touring Auschwitz-Birkenau

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is a solemn and powerful experience that holds immense historical significance. As one of the most notorious Nazi concentration and extermination camps during World War II, Auschwitz-Birkenau serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed against millions of innocent lives. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and provide essential information to help you navigate this somber yet educational tour.

Historical Context

To truly grasp the magnitude of Auschwitz-Birkenau, it's crucial to understand its historical context. During the Holocaust, over a million Jews, along with Poles, Romani people, Soviet prisoners of war, and others, lost their lives in this camp. Auschwitz-Birkenau symbolizes the horrors of the Holocaust and stands as a testament to the resilience of those who suffered.

Here are some tips in planning a visit to Auschwitz.

1. Preparing Emotionally: A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau can be emotionally challenging. It is essential to mentally prepare yourself for the solemn atmosphere and reflect on the gravity of the place you are about to visit.

2. Reservations and Guided Tours: Due to its significance, Auschwitz-Birkenau requires advance reservations, particularly for guided tours. Booking a guided tour is highly recommended as it provides valuable insights and ensures you cover the essential areas of the camp.

3. Practical Information: The camp is located near the town of Oswiecim in Poland, and various transportation options are available to reach the site. Dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes as you will be walking on gravel paths and uneven terrain.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour Experience includes two parts.

The tour typically begins at Auschwitz I, the administrative and command center of the camp. Here, you will see original buildings, including the barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria. The exhibits within the buildings offer a chilling insight into the conditions endured by prisoners.

The tour then proceeds to Birkenau, the larger part of the complex where mass exterminations took place. The vastness of the camp is overwhelming, with rows of barracks and remnants of the gas chambers and crematoria. It is a poignant reminder of the scale of the Holocaust.

It is crucial to be respectful during your visit. Please maintain a respectful demeanor. Photography is allowed in designated areas, but it is important to exercise sensitivity and refrain from inappropriate behavior. Take the time to reflect, pay your respects at the memorials, and honor the memory of the victims.

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is an emotional journey, but it is one that is profoundly significant and necessary. It serves as a reminder of the darkest chapters in human history and urges us to learn from the past to create a better future. Auschwitz-Birkenau serves as a profound educational tool to ensure that the atrocities committed during the Holocaust are never forgotten. The lessons learned here are vital in fostering empathy, promoting tolerance, and combating prejudice and discrimination in our society. By paying our respects at this solemn site, we honor the victims and work towards a world that embraces peace, understanding, and compassion.

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Two Sides of One: Warsaw

Warsaw, the capital city of Poland, is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers tourists a variety of attractions and experiences. Whether you want to explore the city's history and culture, enjoy its food, or simply relax and unwind, Warsaw has something for everyone.

One of the most popular attractions in Warsaw is the historic Old Town, which was rebuilt after being destroyed during World War II. Here you can wander through narrow streets and admire colorful facades, visit the Royal Castle, and enjoy live music performances in the Market Square.

Other must-see landmarks in Warsaw include the Palace of Culture and Science, a towering building that offers fantastic views of the city, and the Wilanów Palace, which is known for its beautiful gardens and Baroque architecture. It is built by Stalin, but its beauty is undoubted and still adored by locals and tourists.

If you're interested in history, Warsaw has plenty to offer. The Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews are both fascinating places to learn about the city's past.

Food lovers won't be disappointed in Warsaw either. The city has a thriving food scene, with traditional Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings) and kielbasa (sausage) available at many restaurants. There are also plenty of trendy cafes and bars where you can try modern takes on traditional dishes.

Finally, Warsaw is a great place to relax and unwind. The city has several beautiful parks, including the Lazienki Park, which is home to the stunning Palace on the Water, and the Pole Mokotowskie Park, which is perfect for jogging or cycling. The vibrant yet laid back atmosphere makes the city feel like a perfect place to raise a family. I even ran into a rollerblade night parade with kids and adults!

Warsaw is a fantastic city with something for everyone. From its history and culture to its food and natural beauty, there's no shortage of things to do and see in this magical city.

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Vilnius: Fighting For Freedom and Democracy

My hostel is right next to one of the main attractions in Vilnius - the magnificent Vilnius Cathedral and Square. The cathedral is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and is adorned with beautiful frescoes and paintings. The square it sits on is one of the most beautiful places in the city, offering stunning views of the cathedral and surrounding buildings. The morning view is magnificent.

During the stay at Vilnius, I made a one day detour to Kaunas. I visited a museum that used to be an atomic bunker during the USSR era. To be fair, it is more of a personal antique collection than a museum, but the guide’s stories definitely made everything came to life. After Lithuania broke away from the USSR, they almost immediately made any action supporting communism, especially the Russian government, illegal. Some may argue that this move is against freedom in politics, but I can totally understand those who suffered under an dictator disguised as “communist” would like to avoid it at all cost. The mentality is obvious; even as a tourist I can sense their support for Ukraine more than anywhere else in Europe.

The moment that touched me the most happened when looking through country badges before and after they left the USSR. When it came to Lithuania, the guide proudly said “See the Pine and Spruce? That is a large industry in Lithuania.” As someone who grew up in Taiwan, I know how insecure it is to be a small country next to a large, authoritarian government always looking to expand themselves. As of today, a lot in Taiwan beliefs that we got international support only because of the amount of high quality chips we produce; without that the international community will be more than willing to trade our freedom, democracy, and self-determination for the satisfaction of the government controlling one of the largest buying markets on Earth. Thus a question came to me naturally: how would a small country like Lithuania have the military defense strong enough to deter Russia from bugging them constantly? What is their “strong reason” for international support, if it’s not their strength or power in impacting the economy? I asked the guide about where do they get their military protection, and he gave me an answer so simple that I am mildly embarrassed to ask in the first place: NATO.

I cannot express how envious I felt afterwards. Imagine how much time and energy Taiwan could devote into areas other than military and semiconductors if there were some similar hard, law-binding support for us. Military service is still mandatory for boys of my age in Taiwan, and that is just recently extended from four months back to a year; all because of our nasty neighbor, their inherent overpower based on land and population, and the international community tolerating them bending rules in order to save their own economic interest.

Back to Vilnius. The Užupis District is my favorite spot in Vilnius.

This once run-down district has been transformed into one of the most eccentric and artistic neighborhoods in the city. Known as the Republic of Užupis, it has a bohemian vibe that’s infectious. You’ll find plenty of quaint cafés, shops, and galleries to explore. They even have their own constitution and country mascot – a cat!

The city also has a vibrant food scene, and there are plenty of restaurants and bars to try out. Lithuanian cuisine is hearty, delicious, and affordable, and a meal at one of the local restaurants is an experience that you won’t forget in a hurry. There beer pubs are also one-of-a-kind!

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Embracing Hanami in the Heart of Paris 🌸🥪: Cherry Blossom Festival In The Parc de Seaux

Springtime in Paris is truly enchanting, and when the cherry blossoms grace the city with their ephemeral beauty, it's time to indulge in the timeless tradition of Hanami! 🌸✨ I ran into some French students who I’ve talked to in school, and they invited me to an outing to Hanami this weekend. I quickly said yes to the wonderful bonding opportunity.

One of the most delightful aspects of Hanami is the joyous tradition of picnicking under the cherry blossoms. Imagine finding the perfect spot in one of Paris's serene parks, laying out a cozy blanket, and basking in the warmth of the sun while being caressed by the fragrant breeze. As the cherry blossoms dance above us, we indulged in a delightful picnic lunch. Some brought sandwiches and fruit, and one of the students even made authentic Japanese rice balls! It's a sensory experience that perfectly combines the beauty of nature with the pleasures of good company and delicious food. 🥪🍓🥤

Whether as a local or a traveler, we enjoyed experiencing Hanami in Paris. It is a magical journey that awakens the senses and fills the heart with joy.I would definitely recommend packing your picnic essentials, and immerse yourself in this time-honored celebration of spring and nature's fleeting beauty. 🌸💕

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More Prague and Its Younger Treasures

Enough of history lectures? This post suggests a day of fun walking trip in Prague, from the old town area across Charles Bridge to the castle, and down south to the Petrin tower and Lennon wall.

Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge is a historic landmark and one of Prague's most iconic symbols. The bridge connects the Old Town to the Lesser Town and is one of the oldest bridges in Europe, dating back to the 14th century. Walking across the bridge is an experience not to be missed. The bridge is lined with 30 baroque-style statues of saints, and the views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle are breathtaking.

Lennon Wall

The Lennon Wall is a colorful graffiti wall that pays tribute to John Lennon and his message of peace and love. The wall began as a small memorial following Lennon's death in 1980, and over the years, it has become a living work of art with messages of love, peace, and hope from people around the world. Today, the wall is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of freedom and democracy.

Park of Petrin Tower

Petrin Tower is a 63-meter-high tower that offers stunning views of Prague. The tower is located on Petrin Hill, which is a popular spot for picnics and walks. Visitors can climb the tower's 299 steps to the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as 100 kilometers away.

Next to the entrance to the trolley heading up to Petrin tower, sits the Memorial to the Victims of Communism.

It is a moving tribute to those who suffered and died under the communist regime in Czechoslovakia. The memorial consists of seven bronze figures descending a flight of stairs, each one gradually disintegrating to represent the gradual erosion of human rights. The memorial is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and democracy.

Chimney Cake

No trip to Prague is complete without trying chimney cake, also known as Trdelník. Chimney cake is a traditional Czech pastry made from rolled dough that is wrapped around a wooden or metal rod and baked over charcoal. The result is a crispy, crunchy pastry that is delicious on its own or filled with ice cream, Nutella, or fruit. Chimney cake can be found in street vendors throughout the city, and it is the perfect treat to enjoy while exploring Prague.

Prague is a beautiful and vibrant city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, art, food, or nightlife, Prague has it all. It is definitely a place worth staying longer and not rush through, which I regret doing :(

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The Magical Beauty - Prague

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a historical and cultural gem of Europe. The city is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking views – so much that I decided to dedicate two blog posts to it! In this post we will adore the Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the Prague Castle, all of which offer visitors an unforgettable experience.

The Astronomical Clock, located in the heart of the Old Town Square, is one of Prague's most famous attractions. It's a stunning mechanical clock that was built in the 15th century, making it the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world and the oldest one still in working order. The clock is designed in a Gothic style, and every hour, it comes to life as the Apostles and other figures move around it like clockwork. It's an impressive sight to see and is something that shouldn't be missed while in Prague.

The Church of Our Lady before Týn is another impressive Gothic-style building that can be found in the Old Town Square. The church is noteworthy for its two distinctive towers, with one tower being taller than the other. The church's interior is also breathtaking, with stunning artworks, sculptures, and stained-glass windows. One of the church's most famous artworks includes the 14th-century statue of the Madonna, which is said to have protective powers. The Church of Our Lady before Týn is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and religious history.

The Prague Castle is another must-visit place in Prague. It's one of the largest ancient castles in the world, comprising of many buildings, palaces, and churches. The castle was founded in the 9th century, with the various buildings and landmarks being added to it over the centuries. Visitors can explore the castle's many attractions, including the St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, the Golden Lane, and the Ball Game Hall. It's an essential visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and medieval culture.

In conclusion, Prague is a city that offers an unforgettable experience. Its history, culture, and architecture make it a unique place to visit. The Astronomical Clock, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the Prague Castle are just a few of Prague's must-visit attractions. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, or culture, Prague has something for everyone.

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Palace of Versailles and Its Gardens: A Symbol Of Royal Luxury

This weekend, I decided it is time to visit one of the checklist items for Paris itself- Palace of Versailles.

The Palace of Versailles is a paradise for its history buff and grandeur. This expansive palace and its sprawling gardens have rightly cemented their place as one of the most iconic locations in the world, and it's no surprise why. Built in the 17th century for King Louis XIV, the Palace of Versailles was designed to showcase the glory and power of the French monarchy. The sprawling palace features ornate designs, massive halls, intricate sculptures, and lavish rooms that showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the time.

Portrait of King Louis XIV

Not only is the palace a sight to behold, but its impressive gardens are equally stunning. Designed by Andre Le Notre, the gardens extend over 800 hectares and feature manicured lawns, fountains, groves, and a vast network of canals. The gardens also incorporate geometric patterns that can only truly be appreciated from a bird’s eye view when looking down from the palace's rooftop.

Versailles Palace has been renovated and restored many times throughout the centuries, but its exterior is still an accurate reflection of the awe-inspiring vision that King Louis XIV had in mind. The palace features a magnificent fountain called Latone, pyramidal steps, gilded terraces, and picturesque pavilions.

The garden of Versailles, on the other hand, is a masterpiece of landscaping. Visitors to the garden can explore the Grand Canal, the bosquet de la reine, the orangery, and the fountains. For all these reasons, it's no surprise that the Palace of Versailles and its gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To explore the palace, you can take an audio tour or take a guided tour with an experienced tour guide. The gardens, on the other hand, are a wonderland that transports you to another era. You can rent a golf cart to explore at your leisure or book a Segway tour. In conclusion, The Palace of Versailles and its gardens offer a glimpse into the luxurious life of the royal court of the French monarchy. It’s a marvelous architectural and botanical wonder that's managed to stand the test of time for centuries. Therefore, exploring the palace and gardens is an unforgettable experience that every history lover should experience at least once.

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Monet Garden: A Stunning Tribute to Claude Monet's Masterpiece

Claude Monet, the French Impressionist painter, is known for his stunning landscapes and beautiful gardens. His gardens at the Giverny village in Normandy, France, are just as famous as his paintings. And now, you can experience a slice of that beauty at the Monet Garden - a breathtaking tribute to one of the world's most significant painters.

Located in Giverny, Monet Garden is a breathtaking landscape inspired by the setting of the famous Water Lilies painting series that Monet created. As soon as you step into the garden, you'll be surrounded by vibrant colors and soothing fragrances, all enhanced by the subtle sounds of flowing water.

The garden perfectly captures the essence of Monet's works and style, with a naturalistic design that blends water features, trees, and seasonal flowers to create an unforgettable visual and sensory experience. From the blooming water lilies to the weeping willows and irises, Monet Garden is a true haven for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

At Monet Garden, you can stroll through the pathways, take in the awe-inspiring scenery and enjoy the many hidden spots in the garden that are perfect for photo opportunities. The garden is open year-round, with each season bringing unique and colorful blooms that will leave you enchanted.

In addition, Monet Garden provides an exceptional opportunity to learn more about Monet's philosophy and life during the educational tours and workshops they offer. There's simply no better way to understand the man and his work than by immersing yourself in the same surroundings that inspired him.

House in which Monet created masterpieces

Monet Garden is a magical attraction that is both educational and inspirational. It's a must-visit for anyone who loves art, nature, or just wants to experience something special and unique.Be sure to put Monet Garden on your list of places to visit if you're in Paris in Spring or Summer, and get ready for a truly unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever.

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Winter Break Part 5: Lyon, The City of Le Petit Prince

Lyon, France is a city that is rich in history and culture. Known as the gourmet capital of France, Lyon has always been a tourist destination for foodies from all over the world. But aside from its food, Lyon is also known as the birthplace of a beloved children's book character, Le Petit Prince or The Little Prince.

In 1943, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, a French writer and aviator, wrote The Little Prince while in New York. However, it was during his time in Lyon where he drew inspiration for the story. The city of Lyon is filled with many parks and gardens, much like the planet where the Little Prince comes from. The author himself even lived in Lyon for two years while he worked on his book.

Today, Lyon pays homage to Le Petit Prince through various tributes and events. For instance, the city's botanical garden, Parc de la Tête d'Or, has a Little Prince-themed maze, perfect for children and adults alike. The park also has a rosegarden which is reminiscent of the flower that the Little Prince meets in the book.

Aside from The Little Prince, Lyon boasts many other scenic spots that are worth visiting. One of which is Vieux Lyon, the city's old town. Here, you can find cobblestoned streets and Renaissance-era buildings that give you a glimpse of what life was like in Lyon a few hundred years ago. Vieux Lyon is also home to the famous Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica, which provides a stunning view of Lyon's cityscape.

Outdoorsy and adventurous, I took a hike up to the Fourvière hill. You'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city, as well as the Roman Theatre and the Odeon of Lyon. I was supposed to have no time for the Musée des Confluences, yet my train back to Paris got delayed for 8 hours. Thus I regained the opportunity to experience an impressive museum of science and anthropology. The exterior of the museum is also a sight to see, as it features a unique, metallic design.

Also got to try a famous Pastry place during the wait!

That’s the end of the winter break series! Can’t wait to be back in school and hear about other people’s adventure during break.

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Winter Break Part 4: Lisbon

Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, is a delightful blend of modernity and tradition. With its unique cultural heritage and scenic beauty, Lisbon has emerged as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

About 15 minutes by bus from the city center, Belém is the historical district of Lisbon, known for its rich maritime heritage. Located on the banks of the Tagus River, it was the starting point of many Portuguese expeditions during the Age of Discovery. One of the most iconic landmarks of Belém is the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture built in the 16th century. The Tower of Belém, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-visit destination. Enjoy the stunning views of the river from the top of the tower and witness history come alive.

Cute stone arts alone the shore from downtown Lisbon to Belem

Speaking of Belem, no trip to Lisbon is complete without trying the beloved Portuguese pastry - Pastel de Nata. The flaky pastry shell filled with rich and creamy custard is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Originally from Belém, these delicious treats are now found all over Lisbon. I tasted the Pastel de Nata in its birthplace at the famous Pastéis de Belém bakery - not comparable with any egg tarts I've had so far in my life!

Just a short distance from Lisbon, the charming town of Sintra houses one of the most magnificent palaces in Portugal - Pena Palace. The palace, perched on top of a hill, is a mix of Gothic, Romantic, and Moorish architecture. The vibrant colors of the palace's facades, towers, and domes contrast beautifully with the lush greenery of the surrounding hills. Explore the palace's intricately designed interiors and be transported back to 19th-century Portugal.

Panoramic scene and the Pena Palace - alone the trails in Sintra

Lisbon is a city of wonders, where history meets modernity, and tradition blends with innovation. The city's beauty, tradition, and culinary scene is unique and unforgettable.

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Winter Break Part 3: Madrid

Madrid is a city that is synonymous with food, and it's no wonder why. The Spanish capital boasts some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes in Europe, offering an extensive selection of traditional and contemporary dishes that cater to all tastes and budgets. But if you're a lover of tapas and churros, then Madrid should definitely be on your gastronomic bucket list.

Tapas are the quintessential Spanish bite-sized snacks, typically served in bars and paired with wine, beer, or vermouth. In Madrid, you'll find an incredible variety of tapas, ranging from the simple and classic like patatas bravas and jamón serrano, to more complex dishes like octopus carpaccio, grilled squid, and foie gras. Some of the best places to try tapas in Madrid include La Latina, Malasaña, and Chueca, where you'll find bustling streets filled with tapas bars and locals enjoying aperitivo.

But if there's one thing that could top off the perfect tapas experience, it's got to be churros. These delicious, deep-fried dough sticks have been a staple of Spanish cuisine for centuries, and they're a perfect accompaniment to a cup of rich hot chocolate or café con leche. In Madrid, churros are typically eaten for breakfast or as a late-night snack, and the best place to try them is at Chocolatería San Ginés, which has been serving up churros since 1894.

Located just a few steps away from the famous Puerta del Sol, Chocolatería San Ginés is a charming and cozy establishment that exudes old-world charm. It's open 24/7, so you can enjoy your churros and chocolate even if you're out and about at odd hours. The crispy, golden churros are accompanied by a rich, velvety chocolate sauce that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Overall, Madrid is a foodie paradise that offers something for every taste and budget. From tapas to churros, the city's culinary scene is a must-experience for any food lover. So whether you're in Madrid for business or pleasure, make sure to indulge in some of the city's iconic dishes and discover new flavors and cuisines along the way.