Europe Archives : Battered Suitcase

What to Look For When Visiting European Churches

When people travel, they often have specific activities they hope to experience. For some people it’s experiencing the food and drink of a culture. For others it’s exploring the natural world through hikes and outdoor activities. Some people look for the historical side of a location perhaps through museums. For those in the latter group, one activity that is quite common, especially in Europe, is visiting churches. Churches have interest for a number of reasons. Tourists interested in history often…

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Learning to See the World in Layers (Street Art in Berlin)

This week I welcome Jacob Fuentes to my blog. He has traveled with us to Vietnam and Germany. Enjoy his thoughts on one of his favorite topics, street art.) Street art has a way of staying with me long after I leave a place. Not because it’s always the most famous or polished work in a city, but because it shows up where you least expect it. On the side of buildings, under bridges, in corners you would normally walk…

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Visiting European Christmas Markets? Some Things to Know

Christmas markets have become a popular travel experience in Europe. In this post I share some thoughts and tips to get the most out of your winter experience.

Wawel Castle and More Churches in Krakow, Poland

On our final day in Krakow we first stopped by the Banksy Museum. From there we visited the historic Wawel Castle with its views of the Vistula River. Visiting three churches and the Christmas market completed our day. The next day we flew home through Istanbul.

From Schindler’s Factory to the Christmas Market in Krakow

We travel to Krakow, Poland by train. The next day we explore the history of Krakow during the German occupation in the Schindler Factory Museum. Later in the day we wandered around the Christmas markets and visited a large Catholic church before heading back to our hotel.

Discovering Churches and Much More in Wroclaw, Poland

On our final full day in Wroclaw, Poland we had a chance to experience some of the many churches in the city. We also visited Market Hall and then some of the more modern parts of Wroclaw. Our day ended back at the Christmas market and a pizza dinner.

Wroclaw, Poland’s Old Town at Day and Night

During a visit to Wroclaw, Poland, we explored the city’s architecture, vibrant Christmas market, and significant church monuments. We learned about the city’s spirit through gnome statues and an art installation reflecting its past. The trip includes both a daytime exploration of churches and an enjoyable evening at the Christmas market.

Is Traveling by Train in Europe a Good Option?

Train travel in Europe is convenient and often cheaper than flying, allowing travelers to navigate shorter distances with ease. While it offers benefits like central station locations and fewer security checks, challenges include transfer logistics and finding assigned seats. Ultimately, train journeys provide scenic views and unique experiences despite potential anxieties.

Dresden’s Christmas Markets Offer Unique Opportunities

On our final day in Dresden, we visited the Dresden Cathedral, noting its reconstruction after WWII. We explored a Christmas market featuring typical fare and an flea market market. A search for a synagogue led to a concrete menorah instead of the building. We enjoyed a surprise concert at the Church of Our Lady before concluding our day.

Cruising the Elbe River and More Christmas in Dresden, Germany

On our first day in Dresden, we explored the historic Christmas markets, admired the Baroque architecture of Zwinger Palace, and enjoyed a river cruise on the Elbe. We visited a unique medieval market and attended a dazzling Christmas Garden event at Pillnitz Palace, ending the day with a delicious handbrot.