Santander is the capital of Spain’s Cantabria region and is located at the mouth of the Bay of Santander on the rocky La Magdalena Peninsula. It is a seaside city that’s considered to be one of the most beautiful and elegant cities in northern Spain and offers a whole host of attractions for visitors, from museums to art centres and stunning beaches. 

Located in the northwesterly part of Italy, Turin is the capital of the Piedmont region and sits on the river Po. It is known for its refined architecture, stately baroque buildings, grand squares and delicious cuisine. Once the Roman Empire had collapsed in Western Europe, Turin was occupied by various different nations and actually served as the first capital of Italy. The city has been a major cultural and economic centre for the country for many years. Today the city is a fantastic blend of old and new and provides a brilliant array of attractions. 

Hello everyone! In today's blog I would like to show you what places you can see on the Asian side of Istanbul and in this particular case, take you to one neighborhood which is called Kuzguncuk. Basically it is kind of similar to Balat on the European side but this one is here on the Asian side. Many people tend to think that most of the important places are in the European side and yes, the most emblematic and iconic ones are there. But what about the Asian side? Of course there are many places to visit. So I'm going to take you to see one of those beautiful neighborhoods. If you're staying in Sultan Ahmet or Taksim you can take a ferry to Üskudar from Eminönü port. Once you have arrived to Üsküdar just across the main road you'll find the bus station next to the Mosque. Take any bus starting with the number 15. 

You have to get off at the fourth station called Kuzguncuk. Kuzguncuk is another neighborhood where we can find churches, mosques and synagogues together because for centuries this place was home to a mix of Jews, Greeks, Armenians and Turks.

This place is also famous for its co-existence of many ethnic and religious groups within Istanbul.

Kuzguncuk is also famous for its colorful wooden houses which give a more picturesque and unique touch to the area. 

Here we can feel a unique and distinct atmosphere. In this region straight out of fairytale, does not share in the chaos of Istanbul. 

I invite you to get lost in these streets and discover the beauty of this place. 

This is a large field in the middle of the neighborhood, divided in small plots that are rented out to locals where they can grow many vegetables. 

Here we can also find many cute boutique type cafes and restaurants. 

During the summer season especially, when the sun sets many locals rush to this area to spend a good time with friends or family. Each one of these cafes is so nicely decorated that it's a bit hard to choose only one to have a coffee or tea, but whichever you choose surely you'll enjoy it. If you ask me, where I decided to sit and rest after walking a lot.

In this café where had a menemen and tea. 

One of my favorite parts of Kuzguncuk where the views we had from the Bosphorus and the bridge.

You just have to walk up the Bicanefendi street for a couple of minutes until you find the best views from above.

Kuzguncuk is a very beautiful neighborhood, which also offers amazing views from the city. Here basically centuries ago is where Jewish communities, Armenians and also Greeks used to live together in this place. This is another area, where you can find in the same place a synagogue, a mosque, many churches as well. So this area is very beautiful and also has a different environment from the other districts in Istanbul. As you can see in the above picture what wonderful views from the Bosphorus and one of the bridges, and I'm pretty sure if you come here you will definitely enjoy it. So, this is why if you want to escape a bit from the crowds from the European side and the most common areas for tourists. This is a great option for you as well. This way you can see a different part of Istanbul where you won't find big restaurants either. Here you will find mostly boutique type restaurants and cafes. So, this is something very interesting about this area and highly recommend you coming here. 

Before finishing our tour we decided to eat döner in this place called Metet Közde Döner. Here everything is nicely cooked and prepared. The lavaş is done at the moment they take your order and the döner is cooked on embers which give a special flavor to the meat. 

For a döner dürüm we paid twenty nine Turkish liras and for a plate full of roasted döner, thirty four liras. 

The prices are a bit higher compared to many other places selling döner in Istanbul but the quality and great flavor of this meat it's totally worth it. This is one of the best places selling döner in Istanbul and you cannot leave this neighborhood without trying one. 

This is our other alternative for you incase if you decide to come into the Asian part of Istanbul. Many people think that only in the main area of Üsküdar there are places to see such as the Maiden's Tower but if you want to get a bit far and see other areas then, this is the place for you. Hopefully you have enjoyed it and don't forget that if you want to keep receiving more tips and recommendations about Istanbul and Turkey. Then, don't forget to subscribe, see you next time. Bye! Bye!

Valletta is the capital of the Mediterranean Island nation of Malta and with an intense history behind it, the whole city is listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site. The walled city was established on a peninsula in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order. Known for its museums, palaces and grand churches, the streets here wind around towns and villages taking you past some of the oldest buildings in the world on this pretty isle. 

At number 10 is Fort Saint Elmo 

At the tip of the peninsula on which Valletta was built lies Fort St. Elmo, strategically placed to defend the harbours on either side of the city. Built in a star formation, this was the focal point of the Siege of Malta that happened in 1565 and was a period in history when some fifteen hundred knights lost their lives. Guided tours will take you all around the fort and fill you in on the fascinating history of the fortification.

At number 9 is the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Malta 

With thirty five stops at major attractions throughout Malta and two routes to choose from, the Hop-on Hop-off Bus is a great way to explore the city and island. The fleet of buses will whisk you between stops, specially chosen to give a comprehensive introduction to Malta's rich history and dazzling culture. With audio guides and unbeatable panoramic views, visitors can get to know this magical island in detail.

At number 8 is the Upper Barrakka Gardens 

The Upper Barrakka Gardens are public gardens in Valletta and along with the Lower Barrakka Gardens, they offer a panoramic view of the Grand Harbour. The gardens are located on the upper tier of St. Peter and Paul Bastion, which was built in the late 16th century. They provide a shady retreat from the bustle of the city, and the balcony has one of the best views in Malta.

At Number 7 is the Grand Master's Palace 

The Grandmaster’s Palace was once the seat of power for the Order of the Knights of St. John and served as the Governor’s Palace during British rule, nowadays it houses the Office of the President. The stern exterior of the 16th-century Grand Master's Palace conceals a sumptuous interior, which has been expanded and embellished throughout the centuries. The Palace Armoury houses one of the world’s largest collections of arms and armour that is still housed in its original location. The collection is a fascinating glimpse into the physical artefacts that remain from past centuries and the battles fought.

At number 6 is the National Museum of Archaeology 

The National Museum of Archaeology is housed in the impressive 16th-century Auberge de Provence. Exhibits include delicate stone tools dating from 5200 BC, Phoenician amulets and an amazing temple model. Malta’s history dates back to around 5900BC and numerous artefacts have been found across sites that date back to the early periods, telling a story of Malta’s earliest inhabitants.

At number 5 is MALTA 5D 

An audio-visual experience, Malta 5D presents the story of Malta’s history in a technologically advanced way with 3D visuals and physical special effects. This theatre takes you on a unique journey of Malta’s rich history and culture. The auditorium treats visitors to moving seats, air blasts, water spray and even leg ticklers while watching the film, and it is also available in seventeen different languages. The twenty-minute footage takes you on a fast-paced journey, bringing some of Malta’s finest history to life.

At number 4 is The Manoel Theatre 

This theatre has been in operation since 1732 and constructed under the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John. The interior is the main attraction here and you will find gilt decorations throughout, including in the main auditorium, which is covered in blue and gold. There are only six hundred and twenty three seats which gives the theatre an intimate feel and visitors should also look out for the beautiful white marble staircase and a courtyard bar.

At number 3 is St John's Co-Cathedral 

St John's Co-Cathedral, located in St. John’s Street, is Malta's most impressive church. The outside is plain, having been designed by the military architects who built Valletta as the Knights' citadel capital in the 1570s. The interior, however, is dazzling, every inch covered in gold, marble or paint. Even the floor is a sea of tombs in coloured marble. The oratory is home to two works by Caravaggio including his largest signed painting, the superb Beheading of St John.

At number 2 is Valletta Waterfront 

The stunning promenade of Valletta Waterfront was originally built by Grandmaster Pinto for the Knights of St John to use the buildings as stores. A tranquil location away from Valletta’s main centre, this landmark still boasts the original stores, nineteen of which have been converted into restaurants. Visitors can also go for a breezy walk along the promenade and take in the views across the water.

At number 1 is Gozo and Comino Blue Lagoon Cruise 

See the sights of Malta from a breezy boat and then go for an afternoon swim around the beautiful Blue Lagoon. This Gozo and Comino Blue Lagoon Cruise is the easiest way to see the best of Malta's islands and tranquil blue waters. With rugged shores and secluded sandy beaches, visitors can soak up the sights of Malta's coastline from the water! 

So that sums up our top 10 things to do in Valletta, hope you enjoyed, if you’re new here feel free to subscribe. Until next blog have a great day. 

Verona, located between Milan and Venice, is one of the most important cities in the Veneto region of northern Italy. With a medieval old town built on the River Adige, it is famed for its historical centre and host of stunning buildings and architecture. The town is also famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and a 14th-century residence with a tiny balcony overlooking a courtyard is said be Juliet’s House.