City Seeker

  Maine’s dreamy coastal towns are no secret, and Rockport is one such quaint gem that is absolutely worth exploring. Rockport was named the prettiest town in America by Forbes in 2008, and while that was a long time ago, it continues to enchant visitors with its seaside and quiet pastoral scenery. For a suitable accommodation in Rockport , check out our list of some of the most charming inns here in town.  Glen Cove Inn and Suites Open from May to October, this lovely, Maine-style inn is every bit the accommodation of your dreams, with utterly cozy and romantic rooms, private decks, and an incredible breakfast to wake up to. There is a heated outdoor pool for guests to enjoy, as well as a sun-splashed deck where they can relax all day. Guests are served a hearty breakfast, complete with freshly baked treats, waffles, and maple syrup, which can be enjoyed on the covered deck overlooking Rockport's rolling green hills. Samoset Resort on the Ocean Samoset, regarded as one of R...

Having led an eventful life, Mary Stuart is one of the most captivating figures in Scottish history. The Queen’s reign was turbulent yet fascinating, fraught with conflicts and struggles that ultimately culminated in her execution. Here are some key locations to visit should you wish to perceive Scottish heritage through her eyes.  Linlithgow Palace  Mary’s birthplace, Linlithgow retains its majesty, evoking images of the past by way of storied stone and brick facades and remnants that attest to its significance. Echoes of history permeate every corner of the ruins, weaving a telling story and establishing the prominence of Scottish rulers in the heyday of their reigns. Explore the Great Hall, roam the inner courtyard, or marvel at the legacy carved on the very walls of Linlithgow. Following your visit, grab a meal at Golden Chip which, unlike Café Royal Oyster Bar in Edinburgh, specializes in savory fish and chips. Stirling Castle  An exemplar of Renaissance designs, t...

Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the world’s great cities. Its strategic perch, straddling Europe and Asia at the final leg of the historical Silk Road made it an extremely desirable place for trade and commerce. Needless to say, some of history’s greatest powers, from the Romans and the Byzantines to the Ottomans have variously called Istanbul their home, endowing it with a glorious history spanning two and a half millenniums. While architectural masterpieces like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace and the Sultan Ahmed Mosque are spectacular testaments of its rich heritage, the city’s gastronomic scene is where you will really find sublime markers of the great civilizations that have traversed its lands. Here are top culinary experiences you simply cannot miss while in the city: Breakfast Breakfast or kahvaltı in Turkey is an elaborate and utterly decadent affair. A traditional breakfast is usually spread over two courses, the first of which includes cheeses, honey, olives, tomatoes, cu...

Tudor England was rife with political upheaval, religious reform, and a barrage of other noteworthy events that established the House of Tudor as one of the most dynamic of its kind. A number of architectural marvels, either renovated or inhabited by Tudor figures, provides the opportunity to delve deeper into their history. Check out these landmarks if you’re a Tudor enthusiast looking to dive into the heritage of this remarkable dynasty.   1.  Hampton Court Palace Perhaps the palace most often associated with Henry VIII, this magnificent landmark was designed by Cardinal Wolsey and, following his downfall, was acquired by the King. Explore the Great Hall which serves as a reminder of the extravagant court lifestyle that prevailed during the time, extensive kitchens which whipped up lavish feasts, opulent rooms adorned with exquisite art, and expansive grounds replete with manicured gardens. The palace also promises a delightful culinary experience, built upon the legacy of D...

Having witnessed the emergence of one of the world’s oldest civilizations, Egypt is studded with a string of extraordinary fixtures and enduring landmarks. Spanning centuries, these evocative gems have elevated the country’s historic grandeur, with slivers of bygone cultures and traditions peeking through their antiquated folds even today. While there are plenty of famed sites to keep you occupied, here are a few relatively lesser-known destinations also worth visiting.    Bubastis While it may not be as renowned an attraction as the Great Pyramid of Giza , Bubastis nevertheless compels visitors to stop and soak in the historical remnants that abound here. Excavations over the years have yielded the presence of numerous age-old sites, such as the Temple of Bastet — the goddess for whom Bubastis is considered to have been a nexus of worship — and the Palace of King Amenemhat III. The complex also comprises the Museum of Tal Basta Antiquities, which features artifacts, objects,...

Laos shopping promises a one-of-a-kind sensory experience, with its vibrant local markets, boutiques, and handicraft shops selling handmade souvenirs and gifts for you to take home.  It is a whirlwind discovery worth making, whether it's a silk dress for women you’re shopping for, or a rustic bamboo hat. Vientiane and Luang Prabang, Laos' premier cities, are both worthwhile shopping destinations. Markets Local markets are an excellent way to become acquainted with the culture of the city. Whether it's the tantalizing aromas of stalls whipping up regional treats like Klao niaw (sticky rice), or the delightful bargain prices, Laos has a plethora of night and morning markets that provide you with an endless number of options to choose from.  The Vientiane Night Market, a nighttime retreat for backpackers or anyone on a tight budget, is one of the most popular markets here. In the evening, seemingly endless rows of red-roofed stalls set up shop along the Mekong River, invitin...

The Austrian Frühstück or breakfast is a modest affair that typically consists of bread rolls, croissants accompanied by a sweet condiment such as jam or honey, and a coffee or tea to wash it down. Weekend breakfasts frequently extend into brunch, necessitating larger indulgences such as the Kornspitz (a savory bread roll) or the Mehlspeise— a broad term used for any baked treat made from flour, eggs, butter and milk. These meals are commonly referred to as Jause , and there are several such cafes throughout Vienna that serve hearty brunch meals to satisfy your cravings. Here's a list of some of the best cafes near Vienna's main neighborhoods that you should try.   Landtmann's Jausen Station Landtmann's Jausen Station invites patrons to brunch in a regal style against the backdrop of one of Vienna's most important historical landmarks, the Schönbrunn Palace. It’s only fitting that you try the Kaiserschmarrn here. This sort of scrambled pancake was named after Aust...