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		<title>Brussels – first time visitor&#8217;s attractions</title>
		<link>https://www.203challenges.com/brussels-first-time-visitor-s-attractions/</link>
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		<pubDate>Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:25:15 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[alcohol]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Belgium]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brussels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chocolate destinations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[first time visitor attractions]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Many people underestimate Brussels as a tourist destination. The numerous headquarters of European Union institutions and its frequent mentioning in the news (“Brussels cut the EU funds…”, “Brussels imposed sanctions…”) brand it as a serious and boring place. Belgium&#8217;s capital city, however, will really impress you with its enchantingly beautiful center, hundreds of beer styles [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.203challenges.com/brussels-first-time-visitor-s-attractions/">Brussels – first time visitor&#8217;s attractions</a> appeared first on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.203challenges.com">203Challenges</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many people underestimate Brussels as a tourist destination. The numerous headquarters of European Union institutions and its frequent mentioning in the news (“Brussels cut the EU funds…”, “Brussels imposed sanctions…”) brand it as a serious and boring place. Belgium&#8217;s capital city, however, will really impress you with its enchantingly beautiful center, hundreds of beer styles and brands, mouth-watering meals at the restaurants and street stands, huge comic characters graffiti on buildings facades and its unpretentious atmosphere.</p>
<p>Here are some of the major attractions in Brussels to choose from while making your personal first time visitor&#8217;s guidebook. (Аll names in Brussels are in French and Flemish)</p>
<p><strong>Grand Place (La Grand Place/De Grote Markt)</strong></p>
<p>This is the biggest square in the city. Here you will find the Town Hall, built in Gothic style back in 1448. Its tower is 96 m high. There is also the statue of Everard t&#8217;Serclaes. The legend has it that rubbing his elbow brings good luck. In the past, the houses were not numbered but rather given names connected to the statues on their facades. That is why every single house around the square has its own name and is a representation of certain craftsmen&#8217;s guild. Every two years, in August, a huge flower carpet is arranged at the square.</p>
<p><strong>Atomium</strong></p>
<p>This is a huge metal construction in the form of an iron atom, built for Expo 58, which has turned into a symbol of the city. It is 102 m high. Five out of its nine interconnected spheres shelter scientific exhibitions. You can reach them either by elevator or stairs and up there enjoy the incredible view to the city. More information about entrance fees and working hours is available here.</p>
<div id="attachment_4523" style="width: 1375px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4523" decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-4523" src="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k.jpg" alt="" width="1365" height="2048" srcset="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k.jpg 1365w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-250x375.jpg 250w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-400x600.jpg 400w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-650x975.jpg 650w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-150x225.jpg 150w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/14141441443_e1a5f27677_k-1200x1800.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1365px) 100vw, 1365px" /><p id="caption-attachment-4523" class="wp-caption-text">Atomium in Brussels | Dennis Jarvis</p></div>
<p><strong>Little Man Pee/Manneken Pis</strong></p>
<p>This is a popular small statue, a symbol of Brussels, which depicts a little boy peeing in a fountain beneath it. You will notice that the boy is dressed in different costumes, which are regularly changed two or three times a week. Nowadays the statue is a replica of the original, which was stolen in 1817. When in Brussels, you must take a photo in front of this statue (located close to the Grand Place, at the crossing of Rue de l Etuve and Rue du Chene). The city also has a statue of a peeing girl (Jeanneken Pis) and a peeing dog (Chien Pis).</p>
<p><strong>Mini-Europe </strong></p>
<p>Take a tour around the entire Europe in just a few hours. Think it s impossible? Not a whit, you can do it at the Mini-Europe Park. It shelters some of the most emblematic landmarks of each EU member state. Here you can see the windmills of Don Quixote, Mount Vesuvius, Big Ben.</p>
<p><strong>Royal Palace of Brussels (Palais Royal) </strong></p>
<p>The original royal palace was destroyed by a fire in 1731. Over the centuries it was reconstructed and renewed. Nowadays, it houses the offices of the King and Queen of Belgium and hosts summit meetings. The palace is open for visitors for a restricted period of time during the summer. The Throne Room, built during the time of Leopold II, with its 11 chandeliers and gold-plated ceilings, is the most impressive room in the building.</p>
<div id="attachment_4524" style="width: 1034px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4524" decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-4524" src="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="679" srcset="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b.jpg 1024w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-250x166.jpg 250w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-400x265.jpg 400w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-768x509.jpg 768w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-650x431.jpg 650w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-150x99.jpg 150w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/4988267108_c3b8698f36_b-800x530.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><p id="caption-attachment-4524" class="wp-caption-text">The Royal Palace in Brussels | Willtron</p></div>
<p><strong>Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris (Basilique de Koekelberg/ Basilique du Sacré-Coeur) </strong></p>
<p>This is the fifth-biggest basilica in the world. It is 89 m high and 167 m wide, built in Art Deco style. You may reach the top of the building using an elevator or climbing up the numerous stairs. The top of the basilica offers an incredible view to the entire city and its vicinity.</p>
<p><strong>Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium (Musée Royal des Beaux-Arts)</strong></p>
<p>The exhibitions at the halls are dedicated to different centuries each. Here you can see works by Rembrandt, Van Dyck, Rubens, Juan de Flandes, Bruegel (father and son), and many other artists of different periods.</p>
<p><strong>Museum of the City of Brussels </strong></p>
<p>The museum is found inside the The King s Household (La Maison du Roi) at Grand Place. The building was restored in Neo-Gothic style. The museum features paintings, mural gobelins and other exhibits connected with the history of Brussels. It also stores the different costumes of the Manneken Pis.</p>
<p><strong>European Parliament </strong></p>
<p>This is the place where the MEPs hold sittings. You can examine it both from the inside and the outside. You will see the plenary hall, learn about the decisions that affect Europe&#8217;s history, and even meet some of the people making these important decisions.</p>
<p><strong>Palace of Justice (Palais de Justice)</strong></p>
<p>This impressive building raises high in the heart of the city. It used to be the biggest in the world back in 1883 when it was finalised, even bigger than the St. Peter s Basilica in Rome. Its dome can be seen from any part of the city. It shelters the Law Courts of Brussels until nowadays.</p>
<p><strong>Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelles)</strong></p>
<p>Here you may sit peacefully with a book in your hand under the shadow of the giant trees and amidst the fresh aroma of the flowers or go jogging under the sun. There are many statues scattered in the park, which is situated between the building of the European Parliament and the Royal Palace. There is a summer open-air stage, first built in 1840, which is reconstructed and now used for live concerts and performances.</p>
<div id="attachment_4525" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-4525" decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-4525" src="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="870" srcset="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k.jpg 1200w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-250x181.jpg 250w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-400x290.jpg 400w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-768x557.jpg 768w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-650x471.jpg 650w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-150x109.jpg 150w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/15331545758_b8595d85bf_k-800x580.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /><p id="caption-attachment-4525" class="wp-caption-text">Park in Brussels | Frank Vassen</p></div>
<p><strong>Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula (Cathédrale St Michel St Gudule) </strong></p>
<p>It is located in the central part of the city. The cathedral was built in Gothic style in the XII century. Some of its parts are even older, dating back to the XI century. You will notice the beautiful stained glasses and the huge organ. St. Gudula is the patron saint of the city of Brussels and her relics are sheltered in the cathedral.</p>
<p><strong>Royal Museum of the Armed Forces and Military History (Musée Royal de l Armée et d Histoire Militaire)</strong></p>
<p>Tanks, military helicopters, jets, assault rifles, cold steel weapons, models of military ships, and many other military artefacts. The museum presents the military history of Belgium since the Middle Ages until nowadays. The terrace of the café inside the museum, on the other hand, offers a view to the aviation collection.</p>
<p><strong>Royal Museum for Central Africa (Koninklijk Museum Voor Midden-Afrika)</strong></p>
<p>Here you can see traditional African vessels, masks, musical instruments, minerals, photos and documents, all representing the African culture. The museum also shelters different stuffed animals, which are characteristic for Africa.</p>
<p><strong>Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate (Musée du cacao et du chocolat)</strong></p>
<p>Here you will get acquainted with the history and production process of Belgium s chocolate in detail. You can&#8217;taste your favorite cocoa delicacy and see how the chocolates are made. Tempting, isn&#8217;t it? The museum is situated at a cross-street of Grand Place.</p>
<p><strong>Comic Strip Center</strong></p>
<p>Here you can learn everything about the comic books – starting from the very first sketches, the realisation of the idea and then the publishing and distribution. Belgium has given the world several of the most popular comic books &#8211; The Smurfs, Tintin, Lucky Luke. Here you can see both black and white and colourful comic books and pictures, as well as many temporary exhibitions. There is also a reading room where you ca examine comic books in different languages. What is more, here in Brussels you can see comic characters graffiti on buildings façade throughout the entire city. Learn more about <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/the-comic-strip-route-on-the-streets-of-brussels/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>the life of the comic characters in Brussels.</strong></a></p>
<p><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4516" src="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" srcset="https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b.jpg 1024w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-250x167.jpg 250w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-400x267.jpg 400w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-650x434.jpg 650w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-150x100.jpg 150w, https://www.203challenges.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/184034801_5660b2d234_b-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Brussels museum of the Gueuze Beer (Musée Bruxellois de la Gueuze)</strong></p>
<p>In fact, this is a functioning brewery, producing the Gueuze Beer. You will be guided through the brewery and learn more about the beer production, while in the end you will be treated with a glass of the drink. Information about entrance fees and tours is available here.</p>
<p><strong>Church of Our Blessed Lady of the Sablon (Eglise Notre Dame du Sablon)</strong></p>
<p>The church is built in Gothic style in the beginning of the XV century. You will be impressed by the detailed statues and the beautiful 14 m stained glasses, 7 of which illustrating the life of Virgin Mary. The statue of the saint, on the other hand, is said to have a healing effect and make the prayers and wishes come true.</p>
<p><strong>Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanique)</strong></p>
<p>You will see a big glass palace of the XIX century here. In the past it used to shelter the garden itself, while nowadays it is used to stage concerts and organise exhibitions. Take a walk along the floral alleys, all the greenery and the fountains, or just sit on some of the benches circled by the huge skyscrapers of the city.</p>
<p><strong>Victor Horta Museum</strong></p>
<p>If you are fond of the unique and bizarre architecture, this is definitely the place to visit. Victor Horta is the father of Art Nouveau architecture. Nowadays his home and studio have been turned into a museum. Everything here is designed by him in unbelievable forms and colours.</p>
<p><strong>Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert (Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert)</strong></p>
<p>This is not a place for painting exhibitions, it is a place for <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/boutiques-in-paris-for-shopping/">shopping</a>. It is supposed that these are the oldest galleries in Europe, built in 1846, as well as the longest – 213 m. They are divided into three covered markets (bedestens). Here you may give yourself up to indoor shopping. There are fashion boutiques, glass and porcelain shops, expensive furniture and decorations, stores selling tea, chocolate and candies, toys, and there are also many cafes and restaurants.</p>
<p><strong>Japanese Tower</strong></p>
<p>A piece of Asia in Brussels! There are different temporary exhibitions dedicated to Japan sheltered in the high red tower, while in the beautiful garden around the building you may see many typical Japanese plants. The Chinese Pavion is here, too, offering a rich collection of Chinese porcelain and traditional pieces of art.</p>
<p><strong>Try Brussels mussels and fries</strong></p>
<p>Belgians claim that this is their national dish and when in Brussels you should taste it at least once. The mussels are boiled in white wine and butter, while there are fast food restaurants offering fries with different sauces everywhere in the city. These places are called <em>frietkot</em> in Flemish and <em>friture</em> in French. Bon appétit!</p>
<p><strong>Chocolate seafood </strong></p>
<p>Calm down, it is not about shrimps or mussels dipped in chocolate. These are the typical Belgian chocolates (pralines), often made of white and dark chocolate, in the form of different sea creatures and shells.</p>
<p><strong>Fruit beer </strong></p>
<p>It is called <em>kriek</em> and has many different varieties. It can be made of cherries, blueberries, peaches, raspberries, and whatever fruit you may think of. It tastes sweetish and does not have the typical bitterness of the traditional beer. Of course, there are tens of other different types of Belgian beer that deserve your special attention, too. You will need at least a week to try all of them.</p>
<p><strong>South Market (Le marché du Midi) </strong></p>
<p>This is the biggest market in Europe. It is set every Sunday morning, located close to the Gare de Bruxelles-Midi railway station where its name comes from. The market offers fresh fruits and vegetables from direct producers, as well as original food products from different regions. The market is also specialized in offering the authentic Mediterranean and South African food, spices, cheese, meat, tea, and honey. It is rich in colors, voices, delicious and highly varied products and goods.</p>
<p><strong>Nightlife in Brussels</strong></p>
<p>House, Latino, retro, jazz… Brussels will meet everyone s music taste. The central part of the city &#8211; Grand Place and the nearby streets, offers both traditional establishments where you may have a meal or drink a beer, and modern discotheques and bars, while the Ilot Sacre quarter is known for its great variety of gourmet restaurants and music clubs. More luxurious entertainment and catering establishments are found in Sablons quarter.</p>
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		<title>Charleroi, Belgium – attractions to visit in a weekend</title>
		<link>https://www.203challenges.com/charleroi-belgium-attractions-to-visit-in-a-weekend/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[203 Challenges]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 May 2022 15:25:28 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brussels]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Charleroi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[church]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[comic books]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family trips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[first time visitor attractions]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Charleroi is the city with the second-biggest airport in Belgium. It is very possible that you have passed through it without stopping on your way to Brussels or Liège. Our advice, however, is to drop in for a few hours. Here is why. 5 minutes of history Charleroi was built in 1666 by the Spaniards [&#8230;]</p>
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]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Charleroi is the city with the second-biggest airport in Belgium. It is very possible that you have passed through it without stopping on your way to <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/tag/brussels/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Brussels </a>or Liège. Our advice, however, is to drop in for a few hours. Here is why.</p>
<p><strong>5 minutes of history</strong></p>
<p>Charleroi was built in 1666 by the Spaniards and the city was named after Charles II of Spain, who came to the throne when he was only 4 years old and generally his entire reign cannot be remember for anything good. Fortunately, the city was not tainted by his bad fame and it was conquered by the French only a year after. Later on Napoleon himself settled in Charleroi on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo.</p>
<p><strong>Comics</strong></p>
<p>Charleroi is considered the capital city of the Walloon (French) comic books – some of the first Belgian stories in pictures were created here. This explains the fact that you often run into statues of popular cartoon characters here and there in the city. Lucky Luke, for instance, is seen at the entrance to the Reine Astrid Park.</p>
<p><strong>The melody of 47 bells</strong></p>
<p>A minute of patriotism. The beautiful building of the Town Hall has 47 bells, which play the tune of the song “Land of Charleroi &#8211; It is you I love best” every hour. We guess that the bells regularly remind the mayor and his employees what they should love the most in their life. The Town Hall is situated on Charles II Square (yes, the same Charles II, who reigned the city for one year when he was 4). The dancing fountains and the Cathedral are found here, too.</p>
<p><strong>4 museums</strong></p>
<p>Charleroi has a<strong> Glass Museum</strong>, which features both exquisite items of modern times and such that gradually bring you back to the past. The museum is located in Bois du Cazier – an abandoned coal mine where one of the severest incidents in the history of Belgium occurred back in 1956. A fire in the mine killed 262 people, half of whom Italians. The mine is no longer functioning and now it shelters an<strong> exhibition dedicated to the fire and the mining industry in Belgium</strong> (together with the Glass Museum). You can reach Bois du Cazier (in Marcinelle) by bus No 52 from Charleroi-Sud station or by foot for about 30 minutes.</p>
<p>The Town Hall houses the <strong>Museum of Fine Arts</strong> (Musée des Beaux-Arts), while the<strong> Photography Museum</strong> (Musée de la Photographie) is situated on 11 Paul Pastur Avenue.</p>
<p><strong>Cartier Castle</strong></p>
<p>The castle is a beautiful XVII century building, which is perfectly fitting into Charleroi&#8217;s urban architecture. The first floor shelters the city library, while the second – the offices of the administrative services of Wallonia (the French-speaking part of Belgium). There is also a nice garden with benches.</p>
<p><strong>Transport</strong></p>
<p>To reach Charleroi from the airport you should take bus A, which will take you to the city in 20 minutes.</p>
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		<title>Dubai &#8211; first time visitor attractions</title>
		<link>https://www.203challenges.com/dubai-first-time-visitor-attractions/</link>
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		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Mar 2022 12:38:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[203 Recommended]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Asia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dubai]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[first time visitor attractions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[United Arab Emirates]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Since trips to Dubai are now visa-free for many nations, visiting the exotic emirate is even easier and more accessible. Dubai will impress you not only with its modern buildings and the zeal of always being number one but also with its strict laws (you can walk down the streets untroubled even in the small [&#8230;]</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Since trips to Dubai are now visa-free for many nations, visiting the exotic emirate is even easier and more accessible. Dubai will impress you not only with its modern buildings and the zeal of always being number one but also with its strict laws (you can walk down the streets untroubled even in the small hours), its colorful palette of foreigners living and working there and of course, its unique atmosphere.</p>
<p>Here are some of the major attractions you should visit during your first time stay in Dubai.</p>
<p><strong>Burj Al Arab</strong> – Simply the best! The most luxurious, the highest and the only seven-star hotel in the whole world.</p>
<p>Together with the Palm Jumeirah artificial island, it is one of the brightest symbols of the Emirate. 321 m high and with 60 floors, Burj Al Arab attracts the flashes of thousands of cameras every single day and shelters wealthy tourists from all over the world. The hotel is situated 280 m offshore over an artificial construction and has the form of the sail of a ship. Its impressive exterior, however, pales before its interior design. If you wish to indulge yourself with a night at this hotel, the pleasure will cost you from EUR 700 to the fantastic EUR 20,000. If you want just to take a tour inside, don&#8217;t be surprised by the more than EUR 100 entrance fee. The hotel&#8217;s Al Mahara underwater restaurant is in the Top 10 of the best seafood restaurants in the world. Here you can taste specialties from around the world, surrounded by thousands of sea creatures swimming behind the thick glass. The Al Muntaha, on the other hand, is another sophisticated restaurant 200 m above the surface, offering a stunning panoramic view both to the entire city and the sea.</p>
<p><strong>Emirates Towers</strong> – These are the 32nd and the 72nd highest buildings in the world. They are also declared the number one business complex. Luxury is the term that describes them best, speaking about both exterior and interior, sheltering an outdoor pool with a sky view, several refined restaurants and a beach with restricted private access…</p>
<p><strong>The twisted Cayan Tower</strong> – This is the highest twisted tower in the world (as if anyone doubts that anything in Dubai goes without “most”…) The 90 degrees twisted tower is situated close to Palm Jumeirah and it was designed by the same team that created the Burj Khalifa.</p>
<p><strong>Miracle Gardens</strong> – Dubai is one of the few places in the world where you can see 45 million flowers of all shapes and colors planted amidst the desert. At the Miracle Gardens you will find 4 km of alleys and 1 km of flower wall, while the compositions are changed several times a year.</p>
<p><strong>Dubai Museum</strong> – Yes, the city of the future has a museum, too, not only skyscrapers. The building of the museum stands out against the modern constructions, presenting authentic local architecture. It shelters unique exhibits of the historical and cultural heritage of these lands. You can take a walk in an old traditional market (souq or souk), see craftsmen in action and even spend a night under the stars in the desert. Working hours: 8:30 – 19:30, Friday 14:00 – 19:30, closed on Sunday.</p>
<p><strong>Palm Jumeirah artificial archipelago</strong> – Only 5 km offshore you will find a narrow bridge leading to the Palm Jumeirah man-made island. It is built in the form of a palm tree with 17 leaves, each 5 km long and wide. Walking down the fronds you will see small and big hotels, luxurious homes waiting for buyers, restaurants, yacht cubs, and many beaches. After you cross the 300 m bridge, which leads to the beginning of the island, in its upper side &#8211; or the crown of the palm, you will notice the magnificent Atlantis Hotel with its two towers linked by a suspension bridge.</p>
<p><strong>Cruise down Dubai Creek</strong> – The cruise down Dubai Creek is one of the most romantic experiences you can relish in Dubai. You can have a dinner while enjoying the moonscape and the panoramic view to the city.</p>
<p><strong>Desert Safari</strong> – It is highly important that you don&#8217;t eat anything three hours before the desert safari, to avoid feeling sick while going up and down the steep sand dunes. After about an hour of wild ride with a jeep car you will reach one of the tents in the desert where you can refresh yourself with drinks and food and take a photo in Arabic clothes. You can also ride a camel or drive a buggy car amidst the dunes. After sunset you will enjoy a show of the legendary belly dance and rich tables with grilled food.</p>
<p><strong>Jumeirah Mosque</strong> – No matter what religion you preach, it is worth visiting any of the numerous mosques in Dubai because just like any other building in the city they are built with due splendor and magnificence. Jumeirah Mosque is adorned with white stones and it is located on the coastal road leading to the port. Generally, the entrance of non-Muslims in the building is prohibited but the local authorities have allowed the organisation of group visits to introduce the foreigners to the Arab culture and local customs. The mosque was built in 1900 as a religious school and it was renovated in 1998. The minarets are 70 m high, the tallest in Dubai. An interesting fact is that the mosque has 54 domes – 9 big and 45 small ones.</p>
<p><strong>Burj Khalifa skyscraper</strong> – With its 828 meters Burj Khalifa is (still) the tallest building in the world. It houses offices, luxurious apartments, extravagant <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/boutiques-in-paris-for-shopping/">shopping</a> center and the first and only Armani hotel in the world.</p>
<p><strong>Maze Tower</strong> – The 57-story skyscraper is recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest vertical maze in the world. In fact, the stone-made labyrinth is a complex system of interconnected balconies of the apartments and offices sheltered in the building. The concrete interlaced design itself is not by chance, it was created by Adrian Fisher, a prominent maze and puzzle designer. During the night, the labyrinth is illuminated by LED lights. The Maze Tower is situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, close to the Emirates Towers.</p>
<p><strong>Traditional Dubai cuisine</strong> – Arabic cuisine will give you the opportunity to taste different meals seasoned with strange spices you have probably never heard of. You must taste the traditional Arab meal shawarma – an Arab pita or wrap bread stuffed with lamb, turkey or chicken meat, garnished with tomatoes, cucumbers, hummus, marinated beets and mango sauce. Its name derives from the Turkish çevirme (a type of barbecue). Its form resembles the popular doner but its taste is much more exotic. Find out more about the Arabic cuisine and culture in Dubai in the <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/how-to-feel-and-taste-the-essence-of-dubai/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding.</a></p>
<p><strong>Traditional souq markets</strong> – Fall into the arms of Dubai and take its hug to your home! Bright silks and textiles are found at the traditional local markets – souqs (or souks), situated behind the Dubai Museum in Bur Dubai. In contrast to the markets in the rest of the world, where you can find everything, in Dubai each market is specialised in specific goods or products – a spice market, perfume market, and so on. The Gold Souk in Deira is the most popular one. Thanks to this market, Dubai is known as the City of Gold.</p>
<p><strong>Shopping in Dubai</strong> – Dubai is considered one of the best shopping destinations in the world and it is not only thanks to the world-popular fashion brands but also because of the cheap prices of certain goods and products. In January and February there is a shopping festival with fireworks, live performances and 75% discounts on designer clothes, jewlery, electronics and other attractive products (information about the time and dates here). The Al Riqqa Road is full of numerous boutiques; it is often called the Champs Elysees of Dubai. The complex around the Burj Al Arab skyscraper, on the other hand, shelters the biggest trade center in the world – Dubai Mall, situated over an area equal to more than 50 football fields. Shops offering cheap clothes and dressmaking and tailoring shops are found in Karama. Works of local artists can be purchased at The Majlis Gallery. And since everything is possible in Dubai, after a good shopping tour, it is time for sports, and the good thing is that you can do both at one and the same place! If you don&#8217;t trust us, go to the Mall of the Emirates. This is the only place where you can go skiing or snowboarding on huge artificial slopes in a freezing temperature while outside the thermometer hits 48°C. Or you can simply have a cup of Arab tea at the nearby cafes.</p>
<p><strong>Nightlife in Dubai</strong> – The nightlife in Dubai is as rich as Dubai itself. Luxurious bars, jazz clubs, live shows, karaoke bars, and plenty more. You should not forget that the sale and consumption of alcohol is banned except at certain licensed bars. If you break this rule, you risk being charged with a steep fine.</p>
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		<title>Florence – attractions for a weekend</title>
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		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Mar 2022 15:18:31 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[City]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Europe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[first time visitor attractions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Florence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Italy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tuscany]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Florence has gathered so many art masterpieces, so much history, it gave birth to so many great minds and up to this day offers so many stunning views that no matter how many times you visit the “capital” of Tuscany, you still won t be able to say: “I now know this city perfectly”. Known [&#8230;]</p>
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										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Florence has gathered so many art masterpieces, so much history, it gave birth to so many great minds and up to this day offers so many stunning views that no matter how many times you visit the “capital” of Tuscany, you still won t be able to say: “I now know this city perfectly”. Known for being home of the renaissance, there are surely a lot of beautiful and famous attractions to visit in Tuscany. But before you start exploring these attractions, make sure not to miss living like a local in this city by booking Italian villas for rent Tuscany.</p>
<p>The list below contains the sights of interest in <a href="https://www.203challenges.com/12-unusual-things-do-in-florence-italy-map/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Florence</a>, which you must see. How much time you will spend doing it – that s up to you.</p>
<p><strong>The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower (Il Duomo Santa Maria del Fiore)</strong> – the world&#8217;s third biggest cathedral. Its octagonal dome with no external buttresses is revolutionary for its time. In addition to the beautiful mural paintings and frescoes, a colossal clock from 1443 awaits you – it is in working order to this day and runs counter clockwise. 463 steep steps lead to the top of the cathedral, giving a magnificent view. It is located at Duomo Square (the cathedral&#8217;s Square – Piazza del Duomo).</p>
<p><strong>Piazza della Signoria</strong> – this is the heart of Florence, the biggest city square. Here stands the Old Palace (Palazzo Vecchio) with the clock tower, in front of which aristocrats met in the past. The square is surrounded by sculptures by famous artists, among which is a reproduction of Michelangelo&#8217;s David. Go to one of the cafes and enjoy a cup of espresso, delicious tiramisu and unforgettable views to the city.</p>
<p><strong>The Fountain of Neptune (Fontana di Nettuno)</strong> – according to a legend the water-splashing bronze statues of mermaids, fish and sea nymphs come to life at full moon. Neptune&#8217;s statue is 4.2 m tall and was created by Bartolomeo Ammannati. It was erected between 1565 and 1575. It is located at Piazza della Signoria, next to Palazzo Vecchio (the Old Palace).</p>
<p><strong>The Old Palace (Palazzo Vechio)</strong> – You will recognize the Old Palace from a distance by its clock tower. It was built in Gothic style. Until 1540 the council governing the city (Signoria) held its meetings there. The Palace also used to be home to the Medici family. Today, among the halls open to visitors, are the beautifully decorated Hall of Lilies and the Room of the Elements. The city government still holds its meetings here. The Palace is situated at Signoria Square.</p>
<p><strong>Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge)</strong> – if you are crossing the bridge with your loved one, don&#8217;t forget to bring a padlock, lock it to the bridge and throw the key into the river so that your love lasts forever. The covered bridge spans over Arno River since 1345. The shops here used to be owned by fishermen and butchers, but the Medici drove them away because of the unpleasant smell, and brought goldsmiths and jewelers instead. The jewelry shops are still among the most prestigious and expensive shops today. According to a popular urban legend Germany never bombarded Florence and the bridge because it was Hitler&#8217;s favorite city. This is probably not true but the view of the bridge would not let you destroy it either.</p>
<p><strong>Michelangelo Square (Piazzale Michelangelo)</strong> – this is the highest point in Florence and one of the most romantic places in the city. Florence is in your feet! You can enjoy a magnificent view to most of Florence&#8217;s sights and Arno River from here. The most famous sculpture by Michelangelo is situated in the center of the square – “David”, there are souvenir stands around everywhere. It takes about 20 minutes walking from the city center to get here.</p>
<p><strong>Uffizi Gallery (Galleria degli Uffizi)</strong> – unique art pieces from different epochs are displayed here, among which pieces from the huge collection of the Medici. You will see paintings and sculptures by Giotto, Michelangelo, Raffaello, Rubens, Titian, Leonardo da Vinci and other famous artists. From the gallery terrace you can enjoy a beautiful view to Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) and Arno River. It is at the last floor in the Uffizi palace.</p>
<p><strong>Basilica of the Holy Cross (Basilica Santa Croce)</strong> is famous as the tomb of many famous people from Italy. Michelangelo, Galilei, Machiavelli, Dante Alighieri and other Renaissance artists and explorers were buried here. It was built in a Gothic style with a rich façade and stained glass windows. It is located in the center of Florence.</p>
<p><strong>Gate of Paradise (Porta del Paradiso)</strong> – the east doors of the Baptistery of Saint John – one of the oldest buildings in Florence. The two huge wings of the gate shine, decorated by gilded bronze, representing biblical plots. The frame of the doors is richly decorated with flowers, birds and characters from the Bible. It is close to the Duomo.</p>
<p><strong>The National Museum of Bargello (Museo nazionale del Bargello)</strong> is a completely preserved palace from 1255. Paintings and sculptures by Michelangelo, Donatello, Verrocchio as well as lots of weapons and ceramics are collected in its spacious halls. The headquarters of the military captain (<em>bargello</em>) was here, hence the name of the palace. It used to be barracks and prison before it was turned into a museum.</p>
<p><strong>Gallery of the Academy (Galleria dell Accademia)</strong> – the original sculpture “David” by Michelangelo as well as many more sculptures and paintings of Florentine artists are kept here. A musical section was opened in the gallery where old musical instruments are displayed. It is located in the center of the city.</p>
<p><strong>Pitti Palace (Palazzo Pitti)</strong> – this is the biggest palace in Florence. It used to be a residence of the great dukes of Tuscany. Here you can find the Silver Museum, the Carriages Museum, the Gallery of Modern Art with rich collections of paintings and sculptures as well as the Porcelain Museum and the Costume Gallery devoted to the history of fashion. You just have to walk around the splendid Boboli Gardens (Giardino di Boboli), part of the palace, with beautiful fountains and artificial caves. It is located at the southern coast of the Arno river, close to Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge).</p>
<p><strong>House of Dante Museum</strong> – it&#8217;s a reproduction of a tower house from the 18th century and is located in a city area, which historians consider to be the birth place of Dante. You will see documents, maps and drawings related to the life and work of the writer. There is also a book store, where the writer s works are sold both in Italian and many other languages. You can find it at 1, Santa Margarita Str.</p>
<p><strong>The Boar (Il Porcellino) –</strong> the bronze statue at the central market in Florence, close to Signoria Square. The original marble figure, found in Rome and brought by the Medici to Florence in 16th century, is kept in Uffizi Gallery. The copy in the central market was cast by Baroque master Pietro Tacca. If you rub its snout, you will get rich or you will come back to Florence. If you put a coin in the boar s snout and it falls through the underlying grating, your wish will come true. Are you ready with coins for a wish or two?</p>
<p><strong>Grab an ice-cream</strong> – you can try very delicious and very exotic ice-cream here. At the ice-cream carts in the town or in the small ice-cream parlors, together with the lemon, strawberry, stracciatella, chocolate flavors, you will also find flavors you didn&#8217;t even think existed. Learn how to choose the best ice-cream in Italy.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.203challenges.com/boutiques-in-paris-for-shopping/">Shopping</a> in Florence</strong> – there are beautiful and expensive jewelry in the Ponte Vecchio (the Old Bridge) stores. Prada, Gucci and Armani have producer s stores in the outskirts of Florence; at the end of the fashion season you can buy clothes at half price there. There are mainly jewelry at Ponte Vecchio. At the Sunday flea markets, organized in the small streets, you can find any goods at bargain prices. At the Central Market (Mercato Centrale) during the week and at the New Market (Mercato Nuovo) next to Ponte Vecchio there are carts with fresh fruit, cheese, bread as well as clothes, leather goods, ceramics and home goods at accessible prices. You will also see many outdoor carts selling all kinds of leather goods – bags, belts, gloves. They are famous for their high quality, and at the end of the day many sellers are willing to bargain and give you a significant discount.</p>
<p><strong>Nightlife in Florence</strong> – the night life in Florence is concentrated in the bars around Signoria Square in the city center. A diversity of live music clubs, bars, discos as well as elegant restaurants with Tuscan specialties. A beautiful end of the evening could be the romantic view to Florence&#8217;s lights from Michelangelo Square. The night city is expecting you. Ready, steady, go!</p>
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