Forbidden City, Beijing

img_0114 img_0118 img_0144Our team arrived in the Forbidden City located in the center of historic Beijing, which is an immense palace complex dating from the Ming to the end of the Qing dynasties and is now known as the Palace Museum. It covers 183 acres and is comprised of 9,999 buildings. The architecture of the walled complex adheres rigidly to the traditional Chinese practice of feng-shui. The orientation of the Forbidden City, and for that matter most of Beijing, follows a north-south line.

img_0887 img_0883Several artifacts include a gilded bronze lion at the Gate of Heavenly Purity at the entrance from the Outer Court. Artisans and builders were gathered from all over China to build this palace, while modern architects still marvel at the skill of these builders who created ornate wooden structures that have stood for almost six centuries.

Travel stylishly,
K

Save

Save

Save

Save

Favorites from Venice

IMG_3233As we begin packing to leave Venice for Rhodes, I wanted to take a moment to jot down a few favorites that really made the trip worthwhile and that I definitely want to try upon our next visit.

  1. Travel to the islands beyond Saint Mark’s Square, such as Murano for their Venetian glass and Burano for lace. We did half day trips on each island, which allowed time to enjoy lunch in Murano before taxing to Burano for an afternoon of museum hopping.IMG_4412
  2. Exploring takes a great deal out of you so, it is imperative that you stop for a cappuccino or espresso break during the day, along with enjoying a baked treat. This is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate!!!
    IMG_3185
  3. Get up early and have the city to yourself {for a few moments} before throngs of site-seers invade the territory.
  4. Have cocktail hour at Bacaro Jazz ristorante from 4-6 pm, you can buy one drink and get the second free all while listening to rock and jazz. Enjoy a sip a drink or two, as it doesn’t get any better…. saluti!!!!

Travel stylishly,
K

Save

Save

Save

Save