Astonishing History

Like many museums, The Morgan Library is a former residence, named after its owner, Mr. Morgan. Nestled within the heart of Manhattan, at 225 Madison Avenue, the structure is quintessential New York. However, the collection housed inside, which Mr. Morgan started amassing more than 130 years ago, has relics from all over the world.

Nichole standing in front of the Morgan Library’s Sol Le Witt – Wall Drawing 552D.

He purchased hundreds of illuminated manuscripts, historical documents, and rare book printings. There are also prints and drawings from old masters and revolutionaries alike. The building itself is even considered to be a masterpiece of architecture and design. Completed in 1906, it’s a breathtaking juxtaposition of the American Age of Elegance with the style of the Italian Renaissance.

Surprising Connections

There are enough treasures housed in the walls of this institution to write a lengthy treatise on, so I will only highlight some of the most notable pieces.

The Morgan Library holds this Gutenberg Bible.

• Gutenberg Bibles: Mr. Morgan’s collection of religious works included three Gutenberg Bibles. These Bibles are notable for being the first major book printed with mass produced, metal, moveable type. Production of Gutenberg bibles dates to the 1450s and there are only 49 remaining in the world.
• Portrait of a Man with a Pink: Painted by the Flemmish master Hans Memling in the 1480s, it is likely a commemoration of wedding and possibly one half of a pair, though that is conjecture.
• The First Italian Bible: For centuries, The Bible was only available in Latin, so the earliest volumes available in other languages are always notable. Bibles written in Italian are especially notable given the influence of the Vatican in Rome. The Morgan Library has one of only six remaining original copies of the first Italian Bibles.
• Numerous seals, tablets, and papyri dating back more than 4000 years.

Hidden Gem and Public Service

Were The Morgan Library placed in nearly any other city than New York, it would be a landmark boasted about in every discussion of the town. However, it is in New York and therefore has quite some competition for recognition. NYC is, after all, rather spoiled for choice in museums, art collections, and exhibits. That means that this smaller library often slips under the radar of many people, including myself.

It is also a standout for the fact that it is a functional library. Granted, to request an object for loan from the library one must generally have an academic purpose for it. The amazing objects housed inside are there to be studied and loaned out and it was always intended to be that, which is part of what strikes me as so remarkable.

A portrait of the man himself, Mr. John Pierpont Morgan.

To this point, I’ve been careful to say Mr. Morgan because I was most fascinated by the revelation that this Morgan was John Pierpont Morgan – one J.P. Morgan. Yes, that one. As in J.P. Morgan Chase Bank. He collected these works in his life for the explicit purpose of creating a library, not just for him, but for the public. His life and legacy is far from black and white, but making this collection available for the public to study was undoubtably born from a philanthropic desire.

The next time you find yourself in New York, your really must spend time in The Morgan Library. It will only take a few hours to visit, as I said, this isn’t a large place, but it may be one of the most memorable things you do.

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Condé Nast Traveler named Chicago the best American big city to visit. Not only did they rave about Chicago, but they also hailed it as one of the ultimate holiday season destinations – and we’re wholeheartedly on board with that! So, without further ado, here’s our guide to Christmas in Chicago!

Bursting with boundless energy, a Chicago holiday season is unlike any other. Here are some of our cherished Chicago holiday events and traditions! With its vast array of top-notch restaurants and bars, spectacular museums, shopping havens, and exhilarating events, your Christmas in Chicago will surely help you make great memories. Thanksgiving in Chicago is fabulous too! 

Christkindlmarkt are always a magical experience you don’t want to miss!

The European Christmas Market in Chicago

Chicago has a European-style Christmas market! We think the Christmas market is a must visit for any Chicago visitor. Officially called Christkindlmarkt, the original is on Daly Plaza, although two other locations have been added as well. Modeled after the European Christmas markets, it has vendors from Germany. Looking for Krampus items? You will find them here! 

And not only can you buy great holiday gifts and ornaments, but it’s also a fun place for a drink or a snack. You will find candies, cookies, pretzels, potato pancakes, sausages, and more.  You must try the gluhwein, a mulled wine you can get in an adorable souvenir mug.

Once you Have enjoyed the Market, it’s only a couple of blocks to Macy’s where you can check out the famous holiday tradition, the Macy’s holiday window displays.  

Chicago Christmas Shows

Of course, you can see A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, but there is also Christmas with C.S. Lewis and plenty of other holiday shows.

And if you have been wanting to see Hamilton, it is back through January 28.

If the symphony is more your speed, make sure to check out the perennial favorite at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

Christmas Parades

Chicago has terrific parades. We love the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 23^th, because they light the magical lights on Michigan Avenue as the parade proceeds south; but the Thanksgiving Day parade is awesome too.  

Always on the first Sunday in December, make sure you don’t miss the Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, which helps do fundraising for the Toys for Tots charity which helps bring joy into the lives of underprivileged children across the country. Motorcyclists are encouraged to join, with the entry fee just being an unwrapped toy donation. 

Less a parade, but no less spectacular, check out the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination display. 

New Year’s Eve

Finally, New Year’s Eve always brings great fireworks off Navy Pier. These fireworks can be enjoyed by anyone with a clear view of the pier, but you can get up close and personal on the pier itself. 

If you’re the party type, a lot of Chicago hotels hold New Year’s parties, but perhaps the biggest, most famous of them is the one held at The Drake Hotel, just off Michigan Avenue.

Chicago’s many bars and restaurants also will be hosting their own parties. There are so many choices, you’ll have a hard time just choosing one! 

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Now you have seen the Mona Lisa, what else should you see at the Louvre? Here are some of the most famous, important, and interesting pieces in the Louvre. We recently discussed visiting the Mona Lisa and the five most important works of art to see. Today, we share more great works of art at the Louvre.

The Rape of the Sabine Women was a popular subject during the Renaissance. This work by French Baroque painter Nicolas Poussin, has a sister piece at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Jaques-Louis David, Oath of the Horatii depicts a Roman legend about a seventh-century BC dispute between two warring cities, Rome and Alba Longa, and stresses the importance of patriotism and self-sacrifice for one’s country.

View the original Stele of Hammurabi which dates back almost 3,800 years. The stele is the oldest written code of laws known to mankind. This the first copy of the text found, and still the most complete, is on a 2.25 m (7 ft 4+1⁄2 in) stele. The stele is now displayed on the ground floor of the Louvre, in Room 227 of the Richelieu wing.

Practical Matters for a Visit to the Louvre Museum

Lines for buying tickets can be long so we suggest buying your entrance tickets online before you visit. Only tickets purchased online guarantee entrance.

Be sure to review the guidelines for a visit.

If you would like to view much of the collection online, the Louvre Museum has an online collection you can view for free.

The Louvre has created some helpful itineraries to consider for your visit.

If you arriving by Metro, Take Line 1 or 7 to the “Palais-Royal / Musée du Louvre” station for the closest access.

Alternatively, Line 14 to ‘Pyramides’ station also provides nearby access.

Other Incredible Paris Art Museums

Musee d’Orsay has one of the best impressionist collections in the world in a beautifully restored train station.

If you love Monet waterlilly paintings, you can experience being surrounded by them in a single circular room. It is a stunning experience at the nearby Musée de l’Orangerie.

The post The Louvre: Five More Great Works of Art that Are NOT the Mona Lisa appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Prepare yourself for seeing the Mona Lisa. It will be crowded, and everyone will be trying to snap photos. Worse yet, people want selfies. We took this photo on our last visit. If you want to get up close, move forward slowly and gently as people depart. Patience is a virtue.

Are you at the Louvre and are tired of glimpsing the Mona Lisa from behind hundreds of people? Most of the other works will not be so crowded! Here are some of the most famous, important, and interesting pieces in the Louvre. We especially loved the Vermeers.

Best Things to See at the Louvre not the Mona Lisa

5. The Winged Victory of Samothrace is an ancient classic you you can now see in person. The goddess Nike greets you the bottom of the Daru Staircase.

4. The Statue of Aphrodite (also known as Venus De Milo) was found on the island of Melis in 1820 where it was found partially damaged. One of the world’s best-known artworks, you can see her in gallery 16 on the ground floor of the Sully wing.

3. Leonardo da Vinci, Virgin of the Rocks.

DaVinci painted two highly similar versions. The other is on display at the National Gallery in London.

The subject of both is the adoration of the Christ child by the infant John the Baptist.

2. Théodore Géricault, Raft of the Medusa has become an icon of French Romanticism. The French frigate Méduse, ran aground on 2 July 1816. On 5 July 1816, at least 147 people were set adrift on a hurriedly constructed raft; all but 15 died in the 13 days before their rescue. The event became an international scandal, prompting Géricault to create this work.

1. Eugene Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People. The recently restored painting returned to display in April 2024. Under eight layers of varnish and dirt they found the central figure’s dress was not entirely yellow but originally light grey with bits of gold. Also, they discovered a boot in the lower left corner which for many years had blended into the paving stones.

More Art in Paris not the Louvre

And there is more to great art in Paris than the Louvre. Read more here. Paris holds some of the best impressionist and modern art collections in the world.

Practical Matters for a Visit to the Louvre Museum

Lines for buying tickets can be long so we suggest buying your entrance tickets online before you visit. Only tickets purchased online guarantee entrance.

Be sure to review the guidelines for a visit.

If you would like to view much of the collection online, you can view the Louvre Museum online collection for free.

The Louvre has created some helpful itineraries to consider for your visit.

If you arriving by Metro, Take Line 1 or 7 to the “Palais-Royal / Musée du Louvre” station for the closest access.

Alternatively, Line 14 to ‘Pyramides’ station also provides nearby access.

For more things to see at the Louvre that are not the Mona Lisa, read here.

The post The Louvre: The Mona Lisa and the Five Best Things that are NOT the Mona Lisa appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

The Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial, National Mall

Washington D.C. For Children

Of course, a Washington DC visit is perfect for families. All of the Smithsonian Museums and the Zoo are free! For an engaging, informative and fun experience for the little ones, the Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum should be at the top of your list. These venues are exceptionally kid-friendly, complete with interactive exhibits that invite youngsters and adults alike to partake in the joy of discovery. I’ll admit that I have been known wait in line to play with the interactive exhibits.

The best places to visit in Washington D.C. for children include the National Zoo and the Natural History Museum.

The National Zoo is free! Visit the Smithsonian’s National Zoo which is a Metro ride to Woodley Park from the National Mall. Sadly, the pandas are no longer there, but that does not mean that the National Zoo is not a terrific family visit. The kids will enjoy the squirt zone, the carousel, the Me and Bee playground, and a virtual reality safari. Adults will enjoy the Zoo as well. I’ve spent many afternoons walking the grounds. Even though the zoo is free you do need entry passes. You can easily get these passes on the Zoo’s website.

The White House

Not to Miss on Your Washington DC Visit

Some of the best places to visit in Washington DC are the most famous.

The White House

No visit to Washington DC is complete without viewing the White House. If you want the inside tour, you must plan in advance as tickets are extremely limited.

If you want a tour, submit White House tour requests through your Member of Congress. These self-guided tours are generally available Tuesday through Saturday (excluding federal holidays or unless otherwise noted). Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. You can make requests up to three months before and no less than 21 days in advance. Submit your request as early as possible as a limited number of spaces are available. e in their request. The White House tour is free of charge. Please note that White House tours may be subject to last minute cancellation.

The U.S. Capitol

One of the most important places to visit in Washington DC, the US Capitol opens its doors to welcome visitors. I strongly suggest booking a private tour to gain easy entry and learn more about the behind the scenes at the U.S. Capitol. Summers can be steamy in Washington DC and it is no fun waiting at the entrance.

Many Many Museums

Get ready to step into the vibrant world of Washington D.C’s iconic museums! The Museum of Natural History claims to be the world’s most popular natural history museum, and for good reason. Remember, it is also the home of the famous Hope Diamond. From the engrossing tales at the Museum of American History to the rich cultural tapestry of the Museum of the American Indian, and the powerful narratives unfolded in the Museum of African American History – there’s a treasure trove of wonder awaiting you in every corner! The museums are definitely the best places to visit in Washington D.C.

Important Tip: The Museum of African American History requires a pass. Because these passes go quickly, book them as soon as you can.

The National Museum of African-American History

Ford Theater

The Lincoln Theater is nearby and you can visit with a Lincoln Assassination Walking tour. Make sure you book a tour in advance. Your tour guide will make you feel as if you were there the night Lincoln was assassinated. For this reason, the theater is on our list of “must do’s” when we have company.

Arlington Cemetery

I have been to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia many times, which is an easy Metro ride from Alexandria. I consider it one of the most important places to visit in Washington DC.The last time I was there I booked an Arlington National Cemetery Tour for myself and my family. As a result, I learned things about the history of the grounds and stopped at the graves of many famous people that I would not have found on my own. The guide will make sure that you see the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Make sure you wear good walking shoes for this tour.

More

Aside from exploring the political and historic landmarks, there are numerous additional activities to indulge in while you’re visiting Washington DC. For instance, you must not miss the world-class performances and immersive tours the Kennedy Center offers. Furthermore, you can enrich your cultural appreciation by visiting our abundant free art galleries and museums, each showcasing unique exhibits and collections. My favorite is the National Museum of Art where you will find classical as well as modern art.

Don’t Forget to Eat on Your Washington DC Visit

Remember, museums here aren’t just about artifacts; they’re culinary destinations too! Take the Sweet Home Café nestled within the beautiful National Museum of African American History, for example. This gem is not just highly recommended, but sparkling with rave reviews from top food critics. My personal favorite is Mitsitam at the Museum of the American Indian where I can get both fry bread and grilled salmon. All of the museums will have cafes and places to grab a quick bite.

And that’s not all! On your Washington DC visit venture north of the mall and you’ll be spoiled by a parade of tantalizing food trucks and a variety of restaurants waiting to tease your taste buds. Accordingly, it will be a feast for the senses, indeed! We can provide recommendations!

Practical Advice for Visiting Washinton D.C.

It’s easy visiting Washington DC with the swift and efficient Metro system. I’ve rarely driven into Washington DC, opting to use the Metro to get around to all the places to visit in Washington DC.

When visiting Washington D.C. for a tour of the iconic monuments, it’s essential to gear up in comfortable footwear, considering the considerable amount of walking involved. I have walked up to 5 miles, even after leaving out a few monuments. Try an evening stroll around the monuments, as these hours offer a less crowded experience, allowing you to immerse fully in their historical grandeur. I love booking a moonlight tour of the monuments when family visits.

Fly into Reagan National Airport (DCA) and book your stay in Alexandria, Virginia. This can be both a time and cost-efficient option for travelers. Many hotels in Alexandria offer the convenience of shuttle services to and from the airport.

When I can, I spend a night in Alexandria. The town is steeped in rich history and boasts an array of shopping venues and diverse dining options. Additionally, there is a Metro Station at the West end of Alexandria. This connects you seamlessly to the much-loved Washington D.C. National Mall and many of the Smithsonian Museums. It makes visiting Washington DC a breeze. I have spent weekends in Alexandria with family. We have spent the day in DC or at Arlington National Cemetary and have had a wonderful dinner and evening in Alexandria.

Finally, let us help you find the perfect hotel and book your private tours before you arrive. Want to find the best airfare? Then check out our valuable tips for saving money on airfare and our tips for making your flights more enjoyable.

The post An Insider’s Guide to a Washington DC Visit appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Bursting with boundless energy, a Chicago holiday season is unlike any other. Here are some of our cherished Chicago holiday events and traditions! With its vast array of top-notch restaurants and bars, spectacular museums, shopping havens, and exhilarating events, your Christmas in Chicago will surely help you make great memories. Thanksgiving in Chicago is fabulous too! 

Christkindlmarkt are always a magical experience you don’t want to miss!

The European Christmas Market in Chicago

Chicago has a European-style Christmas market! We think the Christmas market is a must visit for any Chicago visitor. Officially called Christkindlmarkt, the original is on Daly Plaza, although two other locations have been added as well. Modeled after the European Christmas markets, it has vendors from Germany. Looking for Krampus items? You will find them here! 

And not only can you buy great holiday gifts and ornaments, but it’s also a fun place for a drink or a snack. You will find candies, cookies, pretzels, potato pancakes, sausages, and more.  You must try the gluhwein, a mulled wine you can get in an adorable souvenir mug.

To learn more visit here. 

Once you Have enjoyed the Market, it’s only a couple of blocks to Macy’s where you can check out the famous holiday tradition, the Macy’s holiday window displays.  

Chicago Christmas Shows

Of course, you can see A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker, but there is also Christmas with C.S. Lewis and plenty of other holiday shows. Don’t miss Christmas favorites like Pentatonix or the Queen of Christmas herself, Mariah Carey. 

And if you have been wanting to see Hamilton, it is back! 

If the symphony is more your speed, make sure to check out the perennial favorite at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra: Merry, Merry Chicago. If you’re a Home Alone fan, there is even a symphony performance of music featured in the film at a Home Alone Concert.  

Christmas Parades

Chicago has terrific parades. We love the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on November 18^th, because they light the magical lights on Michigan Avenue as the parade proceeds south; but the Thanksgiving Day parade is awesome too.  

On December 3^rd, make sure you don’t miss the Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, which helps do fundraising for the Toys for Tots charity which helps bring joy into the lives of underprivileged children across the country. Motorcyclists are encouraged to join, with the entry fee just being an unwrapped toy donation. 

Less a parade, but no less spectacular, check out the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination display. 

New Year’s Eve

Finally, New Year’s Eve always brings great fireworks off Navy Pier. These fireworks can be enjoyed by anyone with a clear view of the pier, but you can get up close and personal on the pier itself. 

If you’re the party type, a lot of Chicago hotels hold New Year’s parties, but perhaps the biggest, most famous of them is the one held at The Drake Hotel, just off Michigan Avenue.

Chicago’s many bars and restaurants also will be hosting their own parties, there’s even a New Year’s Eve in the Sky at the bar atop the Hancock Center. There are so many choices, you’ll have a hard time just choosing one! 

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

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As travel advisors, we see travel specials every day. To be honest, many of them are pretty ho-hum. But when we see travel deals that we think are worthy of your consideration, we like to share. If you’d like to learn more about any of these, just contact us. And don’t forget you can view all of our travel tips here.

Here are our current favorite travel offers:

• Book now for 2024 on Princess and 3rd and 4th guests sail free
• Solo traveler river cruises at great rates with no single supplement

Read on for this month’s best travel deals:

A Great Travel Special: Sail Princess and 3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free

More and more the best travel specials go to those who book early. Princess wants to help you plan your 2024 travel now. If you book by September 5, 2023, the 3rd and 4th guests in your cabin can sail free. You’ll still pay port fees and taxes, but the price can’t be beat. And fares are low, starting at $799 per person for a seven-night stay. Even the famous Alaska cruise tours are on sale, starting at $999 per person. This sale applies to many select cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean in 2024. Contact us for more information or visit Princess for more information.

Princess, like many other cruise lines, has determined that they will offer to best fare prices to those who book early. They announced the prices will only go up for these cruises after September 5.

Solo Travelers–Travel Deals For You

The 100% single supplement, when a solo traveler pays the same for a cruise cabin that a couple does, is the bane of solo travelers. Riviera River cruises has the answer. Solo travelers look long and hard for travel specials that help them.

You can visit Paris, Amsterdam, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Portugal, the Rhine, the Danube and more!

We are passionate about river cruising as it maximizes your valuable vacation time and reduces the hassle of travel.

Riveria reserves a selection of European river cruise departures for solo travelers, with no single supplements across the entire ship. You can sail any of their most popular sailings.

Prices begin at just $2,749 for a seven night cruise.

A Rivera cruise includes:

• Seven nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views 
• Guided tours
• Live classical quartet recital on board 
• All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, including a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner 
• Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides 
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee 
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
• Services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director and concierge

Riviera offers great rates for couples travel as well. Also, you can add a very reasonably priced drinks package if you like. Contact us for more information.

Ready for More Great Travel Tips?

In addition to travel deals, we share our favorite travel secrets and tips every week. You can see them all here.

Don’t forget to check out our advice on getting the best deal on airfare, our tips on ocean cruising and more cruising tips. Thinking of a river cruise? Don’t miss our Value Guide to River Cruises.

The post Travel Specials We Love August 2023 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

As travel advisors, we know that there is no shortage of travel deals and sales out there. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We take the time to sift through all the offers and select only the best deals that we think are worthy of your consideration. These sales offer the best vacation values and provide amazing experiences at unbeatable prices. So if you’re looking for an unbeatable deal on your next getaway, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d be more than happy to help you find the perfect travel sale for you.

Read on for this month’s travel specials:

• The Best of Italy Guided Vacation for under $1200
• Princess cruises for under $100 per day
• Fantastic small ship expedition cruising all over the world for half price
• You can cruise Alaska this summer at some amazing prices

Amazing small ship expedition adventures

Half Price Expedition Cruises

Are you looking for an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime? Look no further than an expedition cruise on a small ship! We know the perfect line that can make it happen. Plus, for a limited time you can take advantage of an exclusive offer – two can share a cabin for the price of one, and single travelers can still get a 50% discount!

You can choose sailings in Antarctica, Alaska, the Canary Islands, the Galapagos, Greenland, Iceland, or West Africa. Naturalists and expedition crew will be there to make your trip both educational and unforgettable. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to make lifetime memories – contact us today for more information on this exclusive offer!

This sale is not being advertised to the public. This amazing travel deal is only available through select travel advisors. The offer ends June 25.

Princess sails the Panama Canal

Princess Cruises Travel Deals For Under $100

Sail away to breathtaking beaches in the Caribbean, embark on a journey through the Panama Canal, explore the vibrant colors of Canada & New England in the fall, and much more—all for as little as $100 per person per day! In fact, some sailings are less than $60 per person per day.

Cruise with Princess for unbeatable prices, and enjoy accommodations, food, and entertainment all included in the price. Don’t miss out on this incredible offer, available only until July 5th! Contact us to see which voyages are included in this great travel deal.

See the Collosseum, the Vatican, the Tower of Pisa and ride a Venetian Gondola

A Great Vacation Value: A Week In Italy: Rome, Pisa, Florence and Venice

This is the perfect way to explore Italy without having to worry about the details! Starting at just $1,182 per person, this incredible tour package includes 6 nights’ accommodation, 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners, and transportation. Plus, you’ll get to experience a canal cruise in Venice, one of the world’s most romantic cities! You can also opt to add optional excursions or explore on your own – the choice is yours. Don’t miss out on this amazing value – book your dream Italian vacation today!

While you are thinking about all the best travel sales, don’t forget to check out our advice on getting the best deal on airfare, our tips on ocean cruising and more cruising tips. Thinking of a river cruise? Don’t miss our Value Guide to River Cruises.

Alaska On Sale

If you can cruise this summer, there are some amazing last minute Alaska cruise specials available. You can sail Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth for ten nights, including Glacier Bay, for just $899 per person. Or try a seven-night Celebrity cruise for a crazy $299 per person. Princess also has sailings for as low as $299 per person.

What’s the catch? These fares are for interior cabins, based on two people in the cabin. The fares do not include port fees or taxes, air, insurance, shore excursions, etc. However, they are great deals. There are sailings in July, August and September.

And here’s our favorite–On September 6, you can sail the Sapphire Princess with Jeff Corwin on board as your guide for $299 per person.

Be sure to contact us for more information on these great specials.

Ready For More Great Travel Tips?

We share our favorite travel tips and information every week. You can see them all here.

The post Travel Deals We Love in June 2023 appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.

Island life is amazing, but there is so much out there to discover!

Meteora: Our Top Greek Mainland Destination

Otherworldly Meteora is a sight to behold!  Awe-inspiring monasteries perch atop dramatic rock spires hundreds of feet above the valley floor.  The cliffs, pillars, and valleys rival those of the American Southwest.  The monasteries are incredible feats of engineering, and you can visit many of them.  They are filled with gorgeous pieces of Byzantine art, icons, and holy relics.  Meteora it is a must-see destination for any traveler to mainland Greece.  

Meteora is spectacular

While you can do a long day trip from Athens, we highly recommend spending a night.  Watch the colors and shadows play over the valley and rock formations as the sun sets and rises.  Look down and around as you walk the trails.  You will see rare flowers, birds, and animals.  The Meteora monasteries are UNESCO World Heritage sites.  The Meteora-Antichassia region is a Natura 2000 Ecological Zone, meaning its rare species are protected.  

Explore this stunning destination and be sure to take lots of pictures! From Athens, you can choose from many day-long and multi-day trips to Meteora and Delphi. 

Delphi: The Heart of the Greek Mainland

Delphi is the perfect stop and a must-see Greek mainland destination on your way from Athens to Meteora. Explore the site of the famous Oracle and the ruins of the 2,500-year-old Temple of Apollo.  This was the center of the ancient world!  You walk in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and King Midas who were among the multitudes who came to consult the Oracle.  

You must also visit the Archeological Museum.  There you will see the “Charioteer of Delphi” one of the most famous, important, and best-preserved classic Greek bronze statues.   If you’re feeling adventurous, you can climb to the well-preserved theater on the hill above the Temple.  It is quite a hike but worth the view. 

You might not be able to consult the Oracle, but you will find inspiration at Delphi.  

Thessaloniki: The Second Capital of Byzantium

Thessaloniki is a vibrant and culture-filled city in the north of mainland Greece. We especially loved the Byzantine Museum which some consider to be better than the one in Athens.  You can take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront.  See the famous White Tower with its museum and awe inspiring views from its balcony.  Visit the Rotunda, lunch at one of the excellent restaurants, or take a boat tour. 

Thessaloniki’s rich history dates back over 3,000 years.  You will see relics everywhere from its Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Jewish past.  We passed impressive Greek and Roman ruins right along the streets on our walk to the waterfront.  You can visit many of them for free.  Many of its Byzantine churches and a whole district of the city are included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list.   Local tours are, of course, available. 

For those who enjoy an active social scene, Thessaloniki was recently ranked as the world’s fifth-best party city by Lonely Planet.  It is home to a variety of festivals, special events, and concerts.  These range from an International Book Fair to a Street Food Festival, to the ThessFringe Festival, set to rival that of Edinburgh’s famous Fringe Festival.  Whether you are looking to explore history, partake in the vibrant nightlife or just relax and take in the sights, Thessaloniki is the perfect destination for you! 

Nafpilo: An Awe-Inspiring Destination

Nafplio, or Nafplion, is a stunningly romantic Greek mainland destination located just two hours from Athens. You will experience cozy streets, medieval fortresses, and a small island fortress called the Bourtzi.  This town is the perfect place to explore the Peloponnese. From restaurants and cafes to shops and beautiful old buildings, and of course a beach, Nafplio is sure to have something that will make your mainland Greece vacation truly unforgettable. 

Getting Around the Greek Mainland

In mainland Greece, you can get around by car, bus, ferry, train or guided tours. However, we do not recommend driving in Athens, as it can be stressful. 

A word about taxis in Greece: drivers are fairly well-known to not speak much, if any, English. We experienced this ourselves. When hailing a cab, know what to expect.

Regardless of your Greek mainland destination, our favorite way to travel in Greece is with a private driver. We used a private driver for a day in Athens and another for an overnight trip to Meteroa. 

In both cases, the driver took us to all the places we wanted to see, took us to a great local restaurant (not a tourist spot!) and waited as long as we wanted at each attraction. They translated for us when needed. A bonus, we could talk to them about what it was like to live in Greece. We were fortunate that our Athens driver had been one of the guards in the Changing of the Guard ceremony so we could ask questions about what a hot and miserable job it is. 

If you have three or more travelers, you can save money and have a much better experience with a private driver. 

Finally, since you will almost certainly travel through Athens, be sure to take time to visit one of the best museums in the world, the Acropolis Museum.

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The Building Design

Why is it one of the world’s best museums? Because the Acropolis Museum design makes it easy and accessible for the art-loving traveler. Designed by Bernard Tschumi Architects, it maintains, through its highly transparent glass facades, a direct visual connection between its exhibits, the Acropolis and the in-situ  monuments. There are panoramic views of the historic surrounding hills and the city. Glass floors let you view the underlying excavations. Instead of a standard building plopped onto the ground, it is an integral part of the location.

Certainly, we’re not alone in our admiration. In 2011 the Acropolis Museum received the AIA Institute Honor Award for Architecture. Make time to see it on your next trip to Athens. To see what we are talking about, take this virtual tour.  

How to Visit the Acropolis and the Museum

We recommend that you climb the Acropolis early in the morning when the gates open, usually 8:00 a.m. The crowds tend not to hit until about 10 a.m. Then return down the south side where you arrive very close to the museum.  If mobility is a concern, there is new accessible access to the Acropolis itself.

What To See

Before Your Enter

Because the museum is built over an extensive archaeological site, some parts of the floor are glass so you can see the excavations below.  Before you enter, you can view one of these areas.

Caryatids of the Erechtheion

Caryatids are female figures that replace columns in architecture and these are the world’s most famous.

These were used to support the roof of the Erechtheion temple on the Acropolis. The Erechtheion was built between 421 and 406 BC, during the Golden Age of Athens. It was dedicated to Athena and Poseidon.

The Caryatids are made of marble and stand about 2.3 meters tall. Each wears a flowing robe, a crown, or a headband. They each have an different, elaborate hairstyle.

Today, five of the Caryatids are in the Acropolis Museum in Athens. The sixth is in the British Museum. To protect the originals, replicas are now in the actual temple .

Parthenon Frieze

The Parthenon Frieze is a sculpted marble band that adorned the exterior of the Parthenon temple. Created in the mid-5th century BC, it depicts a procession of Athenians, gods, and mythical figures in honor of the goddess Athena.

The frieze was 160 meters long and 1 meter high. Originally consisting of 115 individually carved blocks of marble, then fitted together to create the continuous sculpted band. Today, you can see 80 meters of the frieze that remain. No surprise, some sections are in the British Museum.

Planning a Visit?

We suggest devoting several hours as there is much to see and we have given you just a small taste. There are many tours available of the Museum and the Acropolis. We hope you love the Acropolis Museum as much as we do.

Also, we share the the best places to visit on the Greek mainland.

Finally, we have many recommendations for places to stay and things to do in Greece. We’ll be sharing more in future posts. Thinking of a trip to Greece? Be sure to check out our 6 Insider Secrets to Get the Best Price on Air and Our Tips for Surviving Air Travel in 2023.

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The post One of the Best Museums in the World: Acropolis Museum appeared first on Far Far Away Travels.