Vatican City (Holy See)

Vatican City (Holy See)

Vatican City is the only theocratic state in the world with impressive religious buildings and an amazing amount of art treasures. This center of the Catholic world is the home of the Pope, leader of the Catholic Church, and the world’s smallest independent nation. The outstanding religious, historic and cultural sights of the Vatican and popular Christmas and Easter celebrations there attract a great number of visitors.

Historical sights in vatican

Roman Catholic center located in downtown Rome, Vatican City, also known as the Holy See, has a small population of less than 1,000 inhabitants. Many of the people working in Vatican City live outside the state in Rome. Outside the Vatican City, 13 buildings in Rome and the summer castle of the Pope also belong to this nation. The Popes are elected life-long leaders of the Roman Catholic Church and the Vatican City. The Pope John Paul II ruled from 1978 until his death in 2005, and the current Pope is the German-born Pope Benedict XVI.

Sights and activities in Vatican City: sightseeing tours & the famous museum

The most popular areas open to visitors in Vatican City are the Basilica of St. Peter and the Vatican Museum. Saint Peter’s Basilica is the center of the Catholic world with a famous dome designed by Michelangelo. It is a huge cathedral with amazingly decorated interior, and you can also visit the top of the dome for great views. You can either climb the 323 stairs or take the elevator that costs 6 euros. The crypt of the basilica includes tombs of the former Popes. The basilica also holds several daily masses, and guided tours are available. The massive Piazza di San Pietro outside the basilica, built in 1660s, is one of the largest public spaces in the world.

The Vatican Museum is one of the greatest art galleries in Europe. It includes the Sistine Chapel, decorated by famous Michelangelo’s frescoes, as well as other spectacular halls and rooms. The Vatican Museum is closed on Sundays except in the last Sunday of the month. English-speaking tours in the museum are available, and using one allows you to skip the queue.

The Swiss Papal Guards who provide security in the state and protect the Pope are yet another popular sight in Vatican City. They wear colorful clothing that is easy to recognize. Founded in 1506, they are actually the smallest and oldest standing army in the world. The Pope gives a blessing from his apartment on Sundays at noon, except in summer, when he stays outside Rome in his summer residence, Castel Gandolfo. Vatican City also has a post office with the state’s own stamps and postcards on sale.

Other attractions in Vatican City, including the beautiful Vatican Gardens, the Saint’s Tomb and the Necropolis can be visited as part of a special guided tour that has to be arranged before the visit. Tours in Vatican City are a good value for money as the guides are very knowledgeable, and if you wish to see the Pope himself, try booking free tickets to Papal audiences in Vatican City. The surrounding city of Rome also has a great deal of attractions to see.

Vatican City travel tips and practical information

As in Rome, Vatican City has a mild Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and relatively cold winters. Vatican City can be closed during some religious holidays. Otherwise, it can be visited any time of the year. The spring in April and May and autumn in October and November are generally best times to visit the Vatican, as the weather is pleasantly warm, whereas July and August have often very hot weather and big crowds.

A statue with pencil

How to get there. Travelling to Vatican City is easy. It is located within Rome, the capital of Italy. You can travel to the Vatican from Rome by bus, by train, by taxi or by foot. Big part of the city is encircled by walls, and the two main entrances are into the big Piazza di San Pietro in front of the St.Peter’s Basilica from the east or into the Vatican Museum from the north. There are subway stations and tram stops close to the Vatican City, and it has a local railway station. There is no passport control, so you can visit Vatican City with the same requirements you need to visit Italy. You cannot enter Vatican City with your own car.

Get around. Vatican City is a small area of just less than 0,5 square kilometers or 100 acres, so it is easy to get around by walking. There are many well-marked directional signs. However, most of the area of Vatican City is closed for visitors. Car rental in Vatican City does not exist, but you can rent cars elsewhere in Rome.

Staiway in Vatican city

Visitor services. There are no hotels in Vatican City, but nearby Vaticano District of Rome offers plenty of places to stay. Restaurants in Vatican City open to public are limited to two restaurants in the Vatican Museum. There is also a bar there, but all these close in the afternoon at the same time the museum closes. English is spoken by many people in the Vatican.

Safety & regulations. Vatican City is a safe destination with no major crime. However, pick-pocketing can happen in crowded places. Vatican City is a Papal state, so it is wise to show respect to the Roman Catholic Church while visiting. Please note that sleeveless shirts and short pants or skirts are not permitted in Vatican City. Do not use a flash while photographing inside the Basilica.

Vatican City - Administration Building

Short History of Vatican City

Vatican City was a part of ancient Rome, and the major obelisk in the main Piazza was brought there from Egypt by the Roman emperor Caligula. Popes have ruled Rome and the surrounding province since the retreat of the Byzantine Empire from Italy. Basilica of St. Peter was built in the first half of the 4th century AD. The Papal States were created in 756 AD, and Popes ruled parts of Italy for more than a thousand years until the 19th century, when most Papal States were annexed into the Kingdom of Italy. Most parts of Rome were also annexed to Italy in 1870, leading to a long dispute with Italy that was resolved in 1929 by three Lateran Treaties. The treaties established the independent state of Vatican City and granted Roman Catholicism special status in Italy. A new modified treaty was made in 1984.

Top 10 places to visit in India

Top 10 places to visit in India

The huge and intriguing country of India is rich in extremes, history and diversity. The country is still one of the most popular travel destinations in the world and attracts backpackers, cultural and spiritual seekers and even those just in search of a good party. Love it or hate it, your trip to India is guaranteed to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. I’ve been privileged to have spent much of my time in this incredible country, here are my personal recommendations for the Top 10 places to visit in India…

1. Agra

Agra is an unmissable stop on your tour of India. There are many places of interest to a visitor in Agra, the most famous of course being the iconic and beautiful Taj Mahal. A UNESCO World heritage site and an eternal symbol of love (it was built by an emperor in memory of his third wife). The white domed structure boasts delicately detailed interiors, tranquil gardens and a collection of other impressive buildings.

The Agra Fort is the sister monument of the Taj Mahal and also holds UNESCO heritage site status. The striking fort dates from the year 1000 but was later remodelled in the 1500s to be used as a palace. Thirteen kilometres from the Agra Fort you will find Akbar’s Tomb, a stunning red-ochre sandstone tomb and another architectural masterpiece.

2. Shimla

A popular tourist destination located in the north-west Himalayas, Shimla is also sometimes referred to as the ‘Queen of Hills.’ It’s colourful colonial past is still evident today and the town is characterised by unusual neo-gothic buildings surrounded by thick forest and outstanding views, offering a very different feel to the rest of India. ‘The Mall’ is the main shopping street and the hub of the city where tourists and locals like to meet, shop and eat. This area also has good number of clubs and bars and is an absolute must see.

The Christ Church is also worth a visit – it’s the second oldest church in northern India and its stained glass windows are designed in a distinctive style that you won’t see anywhere else. Also don’t leave Shimla without visiting Jakhu Hill – the highest peak which is also home to many playful monkeys who just hang out waiting to be fed.

3. Goa

The famous idyllic party place should not be missed. If you decide to visit, I recommend not leaving the island’s coastal areas. Goa is the smallest state in India and has the most beautiful beaches by far – when you’re here you’ll want to make the most of them. Many refer to Goa as a tropical paradise and when you’re here enjoying the warm temperatures, clear turquoise water and palm trees you’ll also probably agree. If you time your visit around the the Goa Carnival held every February you’ll be treated to three days and nights of music, lights, dancers and awesome food. This is when the legendary King Momo takes over the state and the island becomes party central. Originally celebrated in the 1800s by locals only, now both tourists and locals come here to have a good time.

4. Mumbai

Formally known as Bombay, Mumbai is the capital of India and most populated city of the state Maharashtra. Noisy, frantic and polluted, Mumbai is a melting pot of different cultures, religions and wealth extremes. Even though the city is developing at a fast rate, unfortunately you’ll still see many scenes of poverty. The city is also the birthplace of Indian cinema and there are many theatres to watch movies from all over the world (including the worlds largest IMAX dome theatre). A visually impressive city Mumbai has a large metropolitan area comparable to the size of New York’s skyline and a fine but eclectic mix of colonial buildings, stylish bars, colourful bazaars and shiny new malls. Finding something to do here would not be a problem.

5. Auroville

Auroville is an amazing place. It’s an experimental township of an international community. Here people from all over the world come to live in peace, and “progressive harmony, above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities.” The sole purpose of Auroville is to realise human unity. In the centre of this town is ‘The Matrimandir’ a huge gold sphere accompanied by ramps surrounding it. It was put there by the town’s founder as “a symbol of the Divine’s answer to man’s inspiration for perfection”. It has its own solar power plant and inside is a spiral ramp that leads to a marble room where you can “find consciousness”. Surrounded by pristine beautiful gardens and a peacefulness you won’t find in many other places, in my opinion this is the most interesting place in India.

6. Pondicherry

Near Auroville is Pondicherry, one of the most famous places in southern India for tourists. The city is full of colonial buildings, statues, churches and temples. I personally think the best areas here are Paradise Beach, The Auroville Beach, Serenity Beach and Promenade Beach. It has the same purpose as Auroville which again gives the place a very peaceful vibe. You’ll also find here many large interesting churches dating from the early 1900s.

7. The backwaters of Kerala

The backwaters are a beautiful chain of lakes and lagoons along the Arabian sea coast and definitely shouldn’t be missed – they are considered to be the number one tourist destination in India. Ferries here will take you anywhere and you can even hire a houseboat to stay in. In the Kuttanad region of Alappuzha you’ll also be treated to boat races, where you will also find snake boats that can hold up to a hundred oarsmen. Thousands of fans line the riverbanks and cheer on their favourite teams which makes for a great atmosphere. There are dozens of villages and communities throughout this area which you can visit and get a real sense of everyday life and culture in this interesting place.

8. Kodaikanal

In the Ghat mountains lies this beautiful and atmospheric town, which translated means “the gift of the forest.” Kodaikanal has many places of interest for travelers and tourists, such as the Kodaikanal lake which is a star shaped man made lake. Here you can rent horses or bicycles to ride around the shore. Just east of the lake is a 20 acre botanical garden. From here you can go to Coaker’s Walk, a 1 kilometre long pedestrian path that follows along south Kodai.

9. Gingee

Near the larger city area of Tiruvanamalai, you can find the village of Gingee. Although the village itself is pretty standard, it is home to the amazing Gingee Fort. The fort, which is comprised of three astonishing and massive stone hills, offers some breath-taking views from the top of each hill. The fort dates back to the 13th century, so it offers some incredible history for any anthropology buffs. If you want to see the best views, prepare for at least a 900 foot climb. Although rest assured, once at the top you won’t be disappointed.

10. Darjeeling

Darjeeling is a popular tourist town in the Indian State of West Bengal. Famous for it’s tea production and outstanding scenery, it’s often thought to be one of the most beautiful valleys in the world. The lush green environment, cooling breeze and amazing views makes an atmospheric and photogenic destination. In fact Darjeeling is the only location in eastern India that attracts large numbers of tourists. More adventurous visitors also might like to try trekking, river rafting or even just a leisurely scenic walk taking in the extraordinary views.

Monaco Travel Information

Monaco Travel Information

A touch of luxury under the warm Mediterranean sun offered by the modern infrastructure and by the image created by the world famous monarchy. A high class casino with lots of changing situations and incredible sums of money flowing inside its walls. World of speed and danger offered to you by a nearly legendary annual rally contest. Modern night clubs where partying is nearly a privilege, and duty-free shops where luxury goods are available at a reasonable price. Monaco introduces you a touch of life in the fast lane.

Casinos, monarchs and luxury services – Attractions of Monaco

In addition to the world-famous royal family, the Grimaldis who have ruled Monaco since 1297, Monaco has gained reputation with its gambling and luxury shopping. If you want to try your luck, there are the famous casinos in Monaco’s entertainment district Monte-Carlo, which may or may not turn your life around.

Beach and skyscrapers in Monaco

The Grand Casino of Monaco has golden ornaments and luxury interior to be admired. Especially if you get lucky in casinos, you might want to try also the excellent opportunities for shopping in Monaco. Visiting one of the popular concerts in Ballet de l’Opera or joining to sport-crazy crowd during Monaco’s Formula 1 Grand Prix street race might also be of interest to you.

Monuments and gardens. The most popular tourist attraction in Monaco is the Rock of Monaco, a rocky promontory which has during Monaco’s long history been a subject of several conflicts. This monumental rock is where the Royal Palace and the Old Town of Monaco are situated, and offers a popular spot for those who want to watch the change of guards in the Royal Palace or visit the world-famous Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium of Monaco. For those who want something green, suitable site is found in the Exotic Gardens, a mountainside garden with exotic flora, interesting cave, and spectacular views over the city.

Monaco skyline

Sports. Also worth seeing is Monaco’s harbor, La Condamine, which most often is filled with luxury yachts that form an interesting sight for not only those who are interested in yachting, but also for those who want to spot celebrities sailing in them. If you want to try some luxury services, you could try for example the spas in Monaco. A course for golf in Monaco is also offered.

Practical information for your trip to Monaco

Monaco is an interesting place at first because it is the second smallest independent state of the world,

and secondly because of its location in stunning settings at the foot of the Southern Alps and by the Mediterranean Sea. Climate in Monaco is Mediterranean with cool winters and hot, dry summers. Average monthly high temperatures during the summer, which in Monaco lasts from mid- May to the late-September, are around 25 degrees of Celsius. The best time to travel to Monaco is between April and October. During the high season for tourism in Monaco in July and August, hotels are commonly fully booked.

Yachts and harbor in MOnaco

How to get there. As this tiny country has no airport, direct flights to Monaco are not available. However, there are good flight connections offered by nearby airports in France or Italy. Travelling to Monaco is easy by train, bus or boat from the French Riviera. Monaco also has a small heliport. Buses and taxis are available for getting around in Monaco, but the city is also small enough to be explored by foot. Car rental in Monaco is also available, although given the small size of the country, renting a car is necessary only on special occasions.

Palace in Monaco

Visitor services. Hotels in Monaco are excellent, but most often also quite expensive. Restaurants in Monaco, however offer you wider variety of choices from simple cafés to gourmet dining. Monaco is a very safe destination with no crime problems. English is commonly spoken by most locals.