architecture 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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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.

First Impressions of Dresden, Germany in Fading Light

After four days in Berlin, we headed to Dresden, attracted by its historic Christmas market. We navigated a large train station, faced seat mix-ups, and enjoyed scenic views during the two-hour trip. In Dresden we explored the old town, admired architecture, and passed through Christmas markets, ending the day at Starbucks.

A Surprising Stop in Montana at Kootenai Falls

The journey from Spokane to Glacier National Park included a stop at Kootenai Falls, where stunning aqua-colored water and multiple waterfalls captivated us. We explored a swinging bridge before continuing to Kalispell, noted for its historic architecture and charming downtown.

Spokane’s Unexpected Urban Waterfalls and Gonzaga University

The author explores Spokane, Washington, on a road trip to Glacier National Park. Despite encountering rain, they enjoy a day in the city, visiting Gonzaga University, St. Aloysius Church, and the Expo ’74 island with its notable landmarks. Highlights include beautiful gardens, waterfalls, and unique urban art installations.

A Glimpse of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s Largest City

After spending nearly a week in Da Nang, Vietnam, it was time to visit the largest city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, formerly named Saigon. Our visit was a bit different than to Hanoi or Da Dang. We had come to Vietnam because our daughter-in-law is Vietnamese. Her home town is actually south of Ho Chi Minh. Initially we planned to visit her home town as her parents have built a home there. Her parents planned to be there during…

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Hoi An: An Ancient City with Unique Architecture and Lanterns

Our first full day in Da Nang wasn’t actually spent in Da Nang. We spent most of the day in the nearby town of Hoi An. We knew we wanted to go to Hoi An. At one point we planned to get a hotel there. However, we decided we should stay in Da Nang and just make a day trip out of going to Hoi An, so that’s what we did. We went to Hoi An on our first day…

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The Second Tallest Building in the World

If you can’t see the photo you will need to click “Read on blog” at the top.

Beautiful Scenery and Unique Towns on Colorado’s Hwy. 160

After spending a day at Great Sand Dunes National Park, it was time to head to our next destination, Mesa Verde National Park. From our stay in Alamosa we would travel across the southwestern part of Colorado along Hwy. 160. It would take most of the day as we stopped from time to time to see the sights. We spent two nights in Alamosa. The town itself is really the nearest town for those planning to visit the Great Sand…

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