Best Cities
Seven Reasons to Visit Halifax, Nova Scotia
Seven Reasons to Visit Halifax, Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s busiest city is a hidden gem of a North American vacation destination.
Don’t let the regular windy weather discourage you from booking a trip. Visiting Halifax can be one of the most relaxing and educational vacation experiences you’ll have so far. It offers you a chance to meet amazing people and try new things.
It’s a city unlike any other in Nova Scotia – one that combines everything a big city lover wants to see with the eclectic touch of a small town near the edge of the world.
Here are the seven top incentives to make you visit Halifax at least once in your life.
1. Great Atmosphere and People
Did you know that one of the best reasons to visit Halifax is the locals? The people there are among the friendliest you can find.
Although it’s not a small city, Halifax retains a small-town vibe. Visitors get fair treatment and guidance and can always get involved in local customs or festivals.
It offers the perfect blend of a bustling hub with a vibrant nightlife and a small town where everyone knows everyone else.
2. The Culinary Scene
When most people think of Halifax, Nova Scotia, they think about seafood. And yes, it’s one of the main reasons to visit Halifax. The city has a fantastic culinary scene, even if it’s slightly heavy on seafood.
But it’s not just the recipes that appeal to tourists. It’s also the prices.
Halifax gets a steady supply of fresh mussels, shrimps, lobsters, and other sea delicacies. As such, they’re much cheaper in the menus, as opposed to more inland cities with vibrant culinary scenes.
3. A Terrific Drinking Culture
People there are friendly, so it’s great if you can mingle and grab a drink with the locals. But the culture itself draws masses of tourists.
One of the best things to do in Halifax is to spend the night out in a bar or nightclub.
Why?
It’s because that’s where you’ll find almost everyone. Halifax has more bars per capita than any other Canadian city. You can also find an overwhelming selection of drinks, from craft beers to fancy cocktails, from any of those bars.
And speaking of craft beer, Halifax experienced a surge in craft breweries. That’s why you’ll hardly run out of fantastic craft beers to try during your trip.
4. The History
You may not know this but Halifax is one of the oldest cities in the country. Naturally, it’s rich in history and has many stories to share.
It also has some interesting museums as a result. For example, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic can give you insight into the city’s early beginnings and the tragedy of the Halifax Explosion. It even has a section dedicated to the Titanic, among other exhibits.
The Citadel Hill is a fortress/military museum right in the middle of the city. But beware of the daily cannon fire that has locals, tourists, and animals shaking in their boots.
You can also take your kids for a more interactive experience at the Discovery Center.
There’s even a museum dedicated to the history of immigration. The building is on Pier 21 and used to operate as an immigration point until the 1950s. Interestingly enough, most workers today tend to be immigrants, too.
If you want an educational trip, Halifax has plenty to offer in this regard.
5. Gorgeous Scenery
Halifax sits in a picturesque location. But it’s not all about what surrounds the city. Even taking a stroll through the city’s many parks is reason enough to visit.
The attention to detail and dedication to landscaping makes the city’s parks some of its most beautiful features.
If you take a trip to the Public Gardens, you’ll see a masterful example of gardening and landscaping. Meanwhile, Point Pleasant Park is a great alternative if you want a more rugged nature experience.
The city allows you to do everything from sightseeing, biking, and hiking to having a picnic with a backdrop where mountains meet the ocean.
6. Best Shopping Spots
When people plan trips to Nova Scotia, they don’t think much about retail shopping options. They know it’s just not that kind of province and options are usually limited.
That’s until you get to Halifax.
If you love a bit of retail therapy and want to combine it with your passion for nature and seafood, know that shopping is one of the top reasons to visit Halifax.
One of the best places to visit in Halifax is the Shopping Center. MicMac Mall is another good choice for brand-name shopping.
Meanwhile, Vintage Row offers a variety of vintage stores with tons of trinkets, clothes, jewelry, and anything else you can think of. Explore the local boutiques for your mementos and other cool things you may find.
7. Superb Accommodations
The variety of hotels, motels, and other accommodations is another one of the reasons to visit Halifax. Bargain hunters should have no problem finding affordable places to stay during their trip. But the city also offers a string of luxury sleeping arrangements.
In the past, Halifax even hosted the Queen of England, not once but twice. If the city’s good enough for royalty, it should be good enough for the rest of us.
Bonus Reason
Should all go well, Halifax may host a big sporting event in 2021. 2020 was supposed to be the year the city held the IIHF Women’s World Ice Hockey Tournament.
Although it’s unclear if the event would get postponed yet again, one thing is for sure: the next world tournament will be in Halifax at some point in the near future.
There Are Plenty of Things to See in Halifax
It may not be at the top of everyone’s list when looking for a vacation destination. However, Halifax is more than meets the eye. And underneath its surface, it’s one of the busiest cities in Nova Scotia.
The atmosphere, culture, and fantastic offering add to the idyllic scenery, making it a ‘can’t miss’ destination. From sightseeing to dining on affordable and fresh seafood, there’s a bit of everything for everyone.
Trip Ideas
Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)
Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)
Is Australia next on your to-visit list? We suggest taking a trip to Adelaide, the beautiful cosmopolitan city on the coast of Gulf St Vincent. Its cultural offering is spectacular, but that’s not all you can enjoy.
Adelaide is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Australia, and for a good reason. It’s an ideal mix of culture, fun, and nature. Not to mention that it’s a heaven for animal lovers, especially if you have time to visit nearby places.
Out of all the fantastic tourist spots in Adelaide, you’ll find in the following a list of 11 favorites. These are some of the attractions and places that you simply can’t afford to miss while in this sophisticated city.
1. Central Market
The best place to learn about local food and drinks is the Adelaide Central Market. And if you’re a fan of always lively places, the market is a perfect launching pad for exploring Adelaide. It’s where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious sweets, and then some.
And if you stop by on a Friday night, you can also enjoy live music. There are also workshops for kids, cooking lessons, and other exciting activities, depending on the season.
2. Glenelg Beach
A metropolis with a beach that’s only 25 minutes away sounds like a dream. And this is exactly what you get in Adelaide.
Glenelg Beach, one of the most famous in all of Australia, is easily accessible by tram and will amaze you with its awesome sunset. It’s perfect for photographers and romantic souls who want to enjoy a cup of coffee or cocktail in one of the cozy cafés along the beach.
3. Haigh’s Chocolate Store
Are you up for fine chocolates? If so, Haigh’s Chocolate Store is a logical stop on your route.
The factory is a family-owned business and is where the best South Australian sweets are born. The factory’s part of a host of Adelaide city tours, and it’s where you’ll learn all about the chocolate-making process.
Haigh’s selection includes more than 250 types of chocolates in all shapes and sizes imaginable. You might want to bring home at least one gift box as a souvenir.
4. North Terrace
Adelaide’s famous boulevard’s filled with historical sites and cultural monuments. And if you’re not sure where to start, this may be perfect. You’ll first see the Parliament House, undoubtedly the city’s most impressive building.
And as you continue the walk, you can visit the State Library of South Australia, various museums and galleries, and the University of Adelaide campus.
You may have to spend a whole day to fully take in these examples of splendid architecture.
5. Art Gallery of South Australia
As you walk down and explore North Terrace, make sure to stop by the Art Gallery of South Australia. Located in Adelaide’s primary cultural area, this Victorian building houses some superb art collections.
You’ll have a chance to see different kinds of artworks – from the colonial days to the contemporary. Whether you favor sculptures, paintings, or photography, you’ll find something to enjoy in this gallery.
6. The Adelaide Oval
There’s something for sports fans as well among the many tourist places in Adelaide. Whether it’s the cricket or soccer season, the famous Adelaide Oval is always packed.
Like in many European cities, the stadium is also a huge tourist attraction. It’s located in the Riverbank Precinct and can hold thousands of spectators. More than 16 sports competitions have taken place at this historic stadium.
7. Barossa Valley
As you know, Australia is one of the world’s major wine-producing countries. The Barossa Valley is the best-regarded wine region in South Australia and has a lot to offer all visitors.
Aside from the remarkable wines to try, you’ll find excellent food and even golf courses and cycling tracks. There are also a few galleries to visit for those who are into art.
If you have the time, you might want to consider spending a few days in this beautiful valley.
8. National Wine Centre
Speaking of Australian wines, the National Wine Centre isn’t off the beaten path and certainly worth a visit.
It’s the place to attend all types of wine events, including tastings and interactive wine discovery journeys. And if you’d like to learn more about wines a bit more, you should know the Centre is also an enology research institute.
9. Adelaide Zoo
One of the unavoidable tourist attractions in Adelaide, Australia is the Zoo. Close to 300 species of animals live here. You’ll catch a glimpse of everything, from local animals to the most exotic, including the southern hemisphere’s only couple of giant pandas.
A visit to the Adelaide Zoo is an excellent choice for families with kids. The tour can include interactive presentations and a petting zoo of farm animals. There’s also a unique vertical garden and a huge terrarium.
10. Botanic Garden
Off North Terrace Boulevard, the Adelaide Botanic Garden has a long history. It’s home to many medicinal plants, for starters. You’ll also find rainforest plants, Amazon water lilies, the oldest fig trees in Australia, and more.
The best thing about the Adelaide Botanic Garden? It’s open all year round and it doesn’t cost a dime! The guided tour is also free.
11. Cleland Wildlife Park
Who knew that a wildlife park could be only 20 minutes away from the city center? While in Adelaide, don’t forget to stop by the Cleland Conservation Park.
At the park, you can get your daily dose of kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and koalas. Not only can you see them up close, but you can also feed and cuddle them.
This park is among the most visited tourist places near Adelaide. It’s fantastic for photographers, as well as kids who want a souvenir photo of them cuddling a koala.
Trip Ideas
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
Visiting the Oldest City in Georgia – The Top Tourist Spots in Savannah
You shouldn’t postpone your trip to Savannah. See a city packed with American history, great scenery, and tons of attractions.
Visiting one of the oldest cities in the south should be on anyone’s list of vacation ideas – whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or nature enthusiast. That’s because Savannah has a bit of everything for everyone.
The city is a piece of living history, but with all the modern amenities and premium facilities.
Check out some of the top tours, attractions, and tourist spots in Savannah:
1. Relax in Forsyth Park
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This park is part of the Savannah Historic District and is recognized for its impressive scenery. And every Saturday, you can sample the local goods at the farmer’s market.
The 300-acre park offers lush landscapes, flowers, green trees, a fountain, and enough room for live concerts. It’s so picturesque that you can find pictures taken in this park all over the internet. But nothing compares to experiencing it in person.
2. A Ride Down the Historic Route
The trolley tours in Savannah are legendary. One ride covers 22 squares and lets you see some of the most important landmarks in the historic district. It’s a great choice if you’re not thinking of an extended stay but want to see as much of the city as you can.
Each tour runs about every 20 minutes, so it’s impossible to miss one. Even better, it’s a hop-on-hop-off tour. That means you can step off the ride and spend time at any hotspot on the line and hop on another trolley to continue your tour anytime.
3. Walk the Wormsloe Path
Visiting the Wormsloe Historic Site is another good idea. Before reaching the estate, you can travel on a path covered by suspended trees. It’s quite the artistic marvel in a natural site and simply breathtaking in the summer.
You can see Savanna’s oldest building that’s still standing at the site. Tours are available throughout the year and the locals even host memorable events there.
4. Visit the Museums
If you’re a fan of old ships, the Sea Maritime Museum is the place to visit. The museum has a rich collection of ship memorabilia dating back to the 1700s. What’s interesting about this is that the museum opened only in 1966.
The Telfair Museum of Art is another top tourist attraction. This museum features 19th century and 20th century art collections of both European and American origins. It also has an impressive sculpture gallery. Even the building, the 200-year-old Neoclassical Regency mansion, teems with a rich history.
Located in the Tricentennial Park is the Georgia State Railroad Museum, another tourist hotspot.
Having multiple museums that are rich with history and unique collections on display, this city will meet all your need for history.
5. Admire the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
Originally built in the 1870s, the cathedral saw many restorations over the years. The first rebuild was in 1899 and restoration work carried on up until the 1990s.
Its interior features marble floors, railings, and an altar weighing 9,000lbs that came all the way from Italy. The Renaissance murals and the Great Rose Window are breathtaking and any art lover would want to see them up close.
6. Learn More About the Girl Scouts
The Girl Scouts of the USA has its origins in Savannah at the house of Juliette Gordon Low. Being an iconic organization, the founder’s home became one of the first national historic landmarks of the city.
It’s been restored to its original look in the 1880s and you can even see most of the original family furniture and memorabilia. Many of the items on display, including photographs, personal jewelry, and writings, are more personal in nature
The house isn’t a destination just for Girl Scout troops, but also for tourists of all ages. And the tour offers great insight into the Girl Scouts movement from its inception to modern times.
7. A Tour of Unfiltered History
One of the most common things to do in Savannah is to visit historic landmarks just because there are so many of them. The Owens-Thomas House is a great example of a National Historic Landmark you’ll want to check out.
It commemorates the lives of 14 slaves that lived there, and it’s done in great detail. The tour helps one to understand the complex relationships of that time by putting things in perspective.
You can also visit the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum. It’s in Franklin Square, inside the oldest African Baptist Church in Savannah. The exhibit features written stories and photographs, as well as lots of information that is not widely publicized.
8. Visit Georgia’s Oldest Still Standing Fort
Old Fort Jackson is a brick fort and one of the few still standing in America. It got its name in 1812, during the war, and saw enough action during the Civil War. The Coastal Heritage Society manages the fort and sees to the continuous display of military history.
And, if you’re lucky, you might see some old cannon firing demonstrations. Talk about getting a bang for your buck while vacationing in Savannah.
9. Outdoor Activities in the Fort McAllister State Historic Park
Even if you’re not a Civil War buff or offended by anything related to the Confederacy, this park is still great to visit. Along with cannons and military memorabilia, the park features acres of natural beauty.
It’s a wonderful recreational spot right near the Great Ogeechee River south of Savannah. You can enjoy various activities, like hiking, fishing, and going on picnics, and you can even camp in certain spots.
10. Experience the Local Cuisine in Unique Locations
If you’re looking for one of the best places to eat in Savannah, GA, you might want to try the Olde Pink House Restaurant. It’s a great restaurant and a city landmark.
You can eat inside the 1700s mansion and sample the fine dining menu. It’s so popular with both tourists and locals that it also has accommodations nearby to cater to guests who need them.
The Oldest City Is Still Bustling with Life
Savanna, GA, may be an old town, but it’s teeming with life. It has so many attractions for you to see for yourself – from old mansions and history-packed museums to fine dining and lush parks. Savannah really has it all.
That’s why it’s worth more than your average weekend trip.
Trip Ideas
The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers
The 9 Essential Madrid Sights for Art and History Lovers
Go beyond sports and Mediterranean cuisine. Madrid is a top destination for art and history enthusiasts, too.
Spain’s capital city is elegant, expansive, and very busy 24/7. It also holds some of the largest collections of European art and weaponry. And there are many museums, historic landmarks, and other repositories that you can visit. When you’re tired of taking in Spanish history, the scenic parks await.
Check out some of the most popular tourist attractions in Madrid.
1. Tour the Prado Museum
What is Madrid known for? It’s many museums, one of the most famous being the Prado Museum. It opened in 1819 and now features over 2,000 paintings and hundreds of sculptures. And the exhibits have Spanish, Italian, and Flemish artist signatures.
It’s also one of the busiest museums in all of Spain. So, make sure you get your ticket early in the day. But if you’re on a tight budget, you can try to get in for free during the last two hours of the schedule.
It’s truly one of the essential Madrid sights for art and history lovers.
2. Visit the Royal Palace and Gardens
Sometimes referred to as the Spanish Versailles, it’s a royal court with impressive statues and lavish gardens. You can even take your own photos of the statues of Spanish kings and visit the apartments of King Charles the Third.
It has breathtaking interiors and features just about everything you could think of – from marble flooring and silk wall hangings to chandeliers and famous paintings. The palace walls feature works made by the likes of Goya, Rubens, Caravaggio, and other masterful artists.
The Royal Armory is also a nice stop for history buffs. The 3,000 exhibits tell the story of the Spanish military. And some of these pieces date back to the 16th century.
3. Stand in the Puerta del Sol
You can’t go to Madrid without standing in the heart of the city. It’s a big town square that acts as a central hub of transportation and occupies a unique position. That’s in reference to the sun.
But this is not just a place with gorgeous architecture and geography.
It’s also the site of many historic events. The most important being the site of where Spain made a stand against Napoleon in 1808. And it’s also the site of the Second Republic proclamation of 1931.
Aside from being rich in history, it’s known to be lively both day and night. It’s also a great place to grab something to eat or drink. And if you’re interested in the local nightlife, in and around the square are some of the hottest locales in the city.
4. Grab Your Dose of Contemporary Art
The Contemporary Art Museum is a must-see if you’re looking for something more modern. It opened in 1986, making it one of the newer, and yet highly popular, museums in the world.
It’s where you can also see the works of Picasso and Salvador Dali, among many other famous artists. The building itself has three glass towers around the elevators and a beautiful garden in its courtyard that has a variety of quirky sculptures.
The exhibit occupies over nine acres. It will take you a while to take it all in, but there are also a cafeteria and a restaurant for when you need a break.
5. Visit Spain’s Egyptian Monument
The Temple of Debod is a gift from Egypt to Spain back in 1968. It’s an ancient temple located in La Montana Park and is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.
The temple has original decorations, peaceful gardens surrounding it, and impressive shrines. A visit here’s considered as one of the most unique things to do in Madrid.
6. Tour the Archaeological Museum
Visiting the Archaeological Museum is a must if you want to learn more about Spain’s history. In fact, it has an impressive collection of artifacts that predate the Romans.
Here you’ll find pieces over 2,500 years old that still look amazing and even almost new. The restoration and preservation work on this collection is most impressive and, as an art lover or history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss it.
7. Step Into the Oasis of Buen Retiro Park
This park offers 296 acres of lush scenery away from the busy streets. While the park is still part of the town, it acts as an oasis for those seeking peace and quiet and clean air.
It’s also one of the most elegant public parks you’ll see, as the park has many fountains and reflecting pools. From time to time, you can even catch an art exhibit right here. Like any other park, you can also relax in shade here or drink a cup of coffee at an open-air café.
And for nighttime travelers, the park’s historic observatory is the place to be on a clear night.
8. Experience Street Performances at the Plaza Mayor
Madrid is a hotspot for art lovers from around the world, but it doesn’t just offer museum exhibits. There are also some lively spots that are a must-visit.
The Plaza Mayor is a large open square that’s thriving with life. It’s also convenient, as there are many cafes where you can sit down and watch street performers. It’s also a great place to visit when on holiday if you want to sample holiday markets.
The place definitely has a touristy vibe to it. Yet it has an authentic ambiance that offers a unique experience. It even comes with a guided walking tour where you can learn about the history of the square from 1617 to the present.
9. Visit the Old Royal Hunting Grounds
What was once the Spanish hunting grounds for the royal family is now a great park to spend time with the kids. When you’re done taking in the scenery, architecture, and works of art, you’ll want to stop here for a while.
For starters, you can go on a walk and have a picnic. But you can also go kayaking on the lake or hop on one of the dozens of theme park rides. Casa de Campo is also home to the Zoo Aquarium where you’ll find a dolphin show, giant pandas, and many other unique displays.
Visit One of the Best Places to Live in the World
Madrid has a lot to offer for tourists of all ages. While many may see it as a destination for sports fans, perhaps even more people visit for its many art, history, and architectural gems.
This city is teeming with life and gorgeous exhibits and it’s worth a longer stay.
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