City Seeker

A maze of time-worn temples, domed palaces, and rambling forts run freely across Madhya Pradesh's rich landscape just a few kilometers from Jhansi. Orchha, founded in 1501 by Rajput king Rudra Pratap Singh, thrived as a princely state along the Betwa River for decades before being ravaged by war in the 17th century.  Its timeless monuments continue to enthrall visitors today. It is also a proud member of UNESCO's World Heritage Cities list. Here are a few of its heritage structures worthy of your attention: If you only see one monument in Orchha, let it be the Bundela Cenotaphs . These magnificent structures span Orchha's sepia-toned riverside landscape in all their glory, harkening back to a Rajputana past. The architectural splendor is unmistakable, with each of the fourteen buildings featuring a chhatri or parasol-style dome characteristic of the Bundelkhand dynasty. In keeping with their funerary theme, the domes have been occupied by vultures, bolstering conservation e...

  Perched on the picturesque Cayuga Lake, this pretty town sandwiched between New York and Rochester was an overlooked destination until recent times. It wasn't until American reporter Pleasant Rowland embarked on a project to redevelop historic properties in town that it was put on the tourist map. Throughout the course of this ambitious project, Rowland oversaw the transformation of several buildings in town that were on the National Register of Historic Places into beautiful accommodations.   Nestled in the stunning Finger Lakes region, these five inns are an essential part of The Inns of Aurora resort experience.  Wallcourt Hall Originally constructed in 1909 as a sophisticated prep school for girls, this heritage structure has undergone numerous transformations over the years, including time spent as a Wells College dorm and even a studio. It eventually found its place on the Aurora map as a lavish boutique property boasting 16 modern guestrooms with vibrant interio...

  Spring in Japan is synonymous with blooming cherry blossoms, with pink petals wafting on a breeze that carries them across quaint streets and picturesque parks. Given the significance of Sakura in Japanese culture and their poetic symbolism, cherry blossom viewing is a veritable festival in the country, with tourists and locals vying for the best spots to view them. If you’re looking to soak in the stunning yet soothing beauty of Sakura , make sure to check out these pretty areas.  Ueno Park  Branches swaying in the wind, shedding the petals which take root along their hardened ridges, form the idyllic landscape of Ueno Park come cherry blossom season. Bathed in hues of pink, the park is a marvel to behold when S akura are at their peak, evoking a sense of awe in onlookers who specifically set up camp here to catch a glimpse of the magical sight. Ueno is also known for the illuminations that accentuate the beauty of this truly lovely phenomenon, reaffirming the promine...

One of Europe’s oldest capital cities is also perhaps one of its most underrated. Flanked by lush mountains and skirted by the Iskar river, Sofia sits on a rich cache of mineral springs that attracted some of its earliest settlers nearly 7000 years ago . T he city rose in power over the centuries, being ruled variously by the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and Russians. B eneath its present-day facade of Soviet-era architecture is a charming, laidback metropolis, with vestiges of its grand history peeking from its every nook. Its historic center is a veritable museum and those with a keen eye can trace the city’s evolution under the many empires that ruled it . Here are some of Sofia’s iconic sights: Alexander Nevski Cathedral Topped with golden and turquoise domes, this breathtaking edifice, designed in the Neo-Byzantine style is the largest cathedral in the Balkan Peninsula. Its interiors are equally impressive, with magnificent murals, monumental chandeliers and decorative...

  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...