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An Art-Lover’s Guide to Florence

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An Art-Lover's Guide to Florence

Florence is home to some of the most iconic works of art and architecture in the world. Much of these works are inspired by creative developments that took place during the Renaissance. 

Lovers of art will not want to miss out on these attractions!

1. Basilica of Santa Croce

This Fransiscan church is the burial site of eminent artists, writers and scientists such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Rossini and Galileo. There are 16 chapels housed in this church, many of which are adorned with frescoes by Giotto and his pupils who include Gaddi, Banco and Daddi. As the Basilica is a religious site, ensure you are appropriately dressed for your visit.  

2. Galleria dell'Accademia

Many visit this gallery to see the famed David statue by Michelangelo as well as his unfinished statues, which are the Prisoners and St Matthew. While Michelangelo's works are highlights of this gallery, you will also find paintings by other celebrated artists such as Botticelli, Pontormo, Allori and Orcagna. Do purchase your tickets in advance to avoid long waiting times in the queue!

3. Uffizi Gallery

This art museum houses the largest collection of Renaissance artworks in the world. Some highlights of the gallery include paintings by Botticelli, notably Birth of Venus and La Primavera as well as Lippi's Madonna with Child and Two Angels. You will also find works by other acclaimed Italian artists such as Giotto, Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raffaelo. You will also want to purchase tickets in advance to beat the snaking queues!

4. Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Featuring Gothic-style architecture, this cathedral is an iconic landmark in Florence and has the largest dome in the world. The dome, which was built by Brunelleschi, is widely regarded as a masterpiece of engineering and design as it was successfully constructed without any scaffolding! Within this cathedral, you will find 44 stained-glass windows which were designed by Donatello, Ghiberti and other artists. To capture panoramic views of the city, head over to the Bell Tower! 

5. Bargello Museum 

Bargello was formerly a barracks and prison before it was converted into an art museum. Here, you find mostly sculptures by notable artists such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Cellini and Verrocchio. The museum also houses a collection of artifacts from the Middle Ages as well as tapestries, manuscripts and armours. Crowd-hating art lovers will rejoice that queues are a rare sight at this museum! 

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Our Guide to Chocolate Festivals in Europe

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Our Guide to Chocolate Festivals in Europe

Chocolate is one of world's best-loved treats. It is also incredibly versatile, as the numerous foods and beverages that incorporate chocolate show. There are even festivals around the world that celebrate this delightful treat – with plenty of the good stuff to go around to satisfy even the most hardcore chocolate lovers! 

Sweet-toothed ravellers will want to consider attending these chocolate festivals as they plan their next holiday!

1. The Chocolate Festival – UK

The Chocolate Festival takes place over 4 locations in the UK, namely London, Oxford, Brighton and Bristol. This festival will give all chocoholics out there the opportunity to savour a great variety of artisan chocolate from the finest chocolatiers all over the world! All things chocolate can be found at this festival, whether it is hot chocolate, chocolate cake and even chocolate cocktails! You can also learn how to create your own chocolate! 

2. Eurochocolate – Italy

Eurochocolate takes place in city of Perugia in October and is one of the biggest chocolate festivals in Europe. The creations of well-known local and international makers, such as Perugina and Lindt, feature at this festival. Besides an endless flow of chocolate and chocolate-flavoured foods, another highlight of this festival are the beautiful sculptures made of…chocolate! The sweet aroma of chocolatey goodness is indeed thick in the air in Perugia during the festival!

3. Choco-late – Belgium

When you visit a country renowned for its chocolates, buying and eating them will simply not be enough. Complete the experience by attending the Choco-late festival at Belfort Museum in the city of Bruges next time you visit Belgium! Held over the span of 4 days, this festival celebrates Belgian chocolate as well as its chocolatiers! You will get to see chocolate statues, see chocolate exhibits as well as broaden your knowledge about the history of chocolate and how it is made while indulging your sweet desires. There are even free samples to go around – chocolate-lovers may just suffer an overdose! (If that's even possible)

4. ChocolART – Germany

ChocolART is Germany's biggest and most important chocolate festival, held in the university town of Tubingen in December. This festival is a platform for leading chocolatiers and manufacturers from all over the world to showcase their finest creations while those who attend will have the pleasure of indulgence. The charm of Tubingen also contributes to the festive atmosphere and with exquisite chocolate to enjoy, there is so much to love about this charming festival!

5. Le Salon du Chocolat – France

Held in Paris over 5 days in October, Le Salon du Chocolat is a chocolate festival that combines chocolate and fashion (of course it does…It's Paris!) This festival features chocolate from both local and international artisans as well as renowned chocolate brands. Attendees will not only get to indulge in plenty of chocolate but also learn about the world of chocolate from the manufacturers' perspective. The chocolate fashion show is a highlight of this festival, featuring designs that not only celebrate chocolate but are even made of it! Only at Le Salon du Chocolat can fashion be this sweet!

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Street Food in Japan: The Ultimate Guide

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Street Food in Japan: The Ultimate Guide

Japan holds more than 100,000 festivals and events each year, with street food being an intergral part of these festivals. Food vendors are known as Yatai in Japanese and they sell both savoury and sweet snacks that are well liked by locals and tourists. What's on offer often depends on the region as there is an amazing amount of variety to be explored!

1. Takoyaki

Takoyaki are small balls made from flour with fillings such as squid, ham and cheese.. This is one of the most popular street food in Japan and can be seen almost anywhere. They are served with mayonaise and fish flakes.

2. Crepes

Although a well-loved French dessert, the Japanese have their own take on this sweet treat, making it a little on the crispier side. Japanese crepes are very popular, especially among Japanese school girls and can be found in harajuku among many other places. They are usually rolled up into a cone for easier eating and often contain fresh ingredients like fruits and savoury eggs. 

3. Korokke

Another French-inspired snack on our list, the Korokke is the Japanese version of the croquette. It is made of chopped meat, seafood, vegetables and mashed potatoes. This savoury snack is yummy and can act as a pick me up when you are hungry.

4. Dango

Dangos are sweet glutinous rice balls made from rice flour. It is often grilled to give it a smokey grill flavour. It may be plain or come with fillings such as sweet red bean paste and green tea. It can be eaten as a savoury snack too with soya sauce.

5. Yakisoba

If you are feeling very hungry, you might want to try some Yakisoba which is fried noodles in soya sauce with vegetables and meat. It may even be served in a hotdog bun.

6. Gyoza

Gyoza is the Japanese version of fried pot stickers. Filled with seasoned grounded pork and vegetables, they are delicious with a little soya sauce. Some gyozas can be made from shrimp, mushrooms, cheese or shiso leaves.

If you love gyoza or would love to try some, why not join in for an experience with our lovely Sachii-san or Kei-san in Tokyo where you can learn to make your own gyoza and taste typical Japanese dishes.

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5 of the Best Bars/Pubs in Budapest

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When you are in Budapest, make sure to check out these best places to have a drink.

1. Szimpla Kert

Decorated with remnants of the Communist era, this bar is one of the most popular one among the infamous ‘ruin pubs’ in Budapest. From an old radio to half a bathtub, this place has an alternative vibe for your nightlife in Budapest.

2. Blue Red Hell

You can be anyone in this pub as it is known for it’s variety of costume events like Halloween. One night it might be a Japanese disco and then a cyber punk movie another.

3. Morrison’s Opera

You’ll want to know about this place- as it is where you can get beer for 100HUF! There is a dance floor to dance your night away, a place to sing and play football or FIFA. Not to mention Morrison’s Opera has a fantastic DJ too.

4. Fogas Haz

It’s name literally means House of Teeth and is very popular among the locals. They have a dance floor and prices are cheap. The outdoor courtyard is the perfect place to get a drink and relax.

5. Mazel Tov

Bringing a modern twist to the ruin pubs scene, Mazel Tov has stylish interiors with clean lines and ample space.Featuring a complete Middle Eastern kitchen equipped with a hummus bar, even kids are welcome in this stylish joint.

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