2018-05-09 18:49
This defense fort at the edge of the port is built with rocks and is partially underground. We liked the leafless trees in front of the entrance gate. Inside you find old kinds of old fashio… Read More
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Travels - Ballroom Dancing - Amusement Parks Blog
filipdemuinck-kristelpardon.blogspot.com
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Personal blog on travelling, ballroom dancing, restaurant and amusement parks
2018-05-06 16:09
The crossing from Miami to the Azores in Portugal was great. Calm seas and sunny weather, it was however not as warm as the more southern crossing route via the Canarias. Our ship the Celebr… Read More
2018-05-01 08:24
The Belem Tower is a small defense and ceremonial castle which was built in the 16th century on the bank of the Tagus River. It is one of the most popular landmarks of Lisbon, there are alwa… Read More
2018-04-23 16:00
We are happy to write our 100th article of Italy about a typical village at a lake. You see the market place, some houses, a church and its tower. Next to the restaurant at the lake lays a f… Read More
2018-04-20 16:00
It was off-season and calm in Civitavecchia. We explored Tripadvisor for restaurant advice but nothing really jumped out so we walked alongside the beach promenade looking at each place. The… Read More
2018-04-17 16:00
The small lake city of Bracciano close to Civitavecchia port (Rome) is known for its medieval castle. It is here that the cruel Isabella killed many of her lovers by throwing them into a dee… Read More
2018-04-14 07:11
This amazing monument on the Tagus river bank looks at bit like the front of a ship with all its sailors watching forward. The way they are going to sail, expecting the unknown, looking towa… Read More
2018-04-04 18:35
Lisbon is one of the most beautiful ports of Europe to depart with a cruise. It is late afternoon and the sun is shining. You can see it is a big vessel with about 3.000 passengers. On the t… Read More
2018-04-02 08:48
It has been a while since we wrote about a Michelin Star restaurant. M-Bistro in Nieuwpoort city, at the Belgian coast is certainly worth a visit. It just received its first Michelin Star an… Read More
2018-03-21 19:12
This wooden piece of art (The Passenger) made by Arne Quinze in Mons is 43m long and 16m high. This is a contemporary temporary exhibition which will be removed in 2020. When you like it, yo… Read More
2018-03-18 16:50
It has been a long time since our last blog article but we will try to pick it up. Today we continue our trip in Mons with the cathedral of Mons. The church was built in the 13th century and… Read More
2018-02-02 17:00
We are visiting the city of Mons (Bergen) in the south east of Belgium. This is in the French speaking part of the country (La Wallonie). Mons has a great market square with fountains, the c… Read More
2018-01-30 17:00
This church has been rebuilt of few times since the 16th century, the current construction is more than 200 years old. The façade is white and brown, an exceptional choice. The grey a… Read More
2018-01-27 19:06
This is the main city square of Ponta Delgada on the Azores. Here you find the most important church as also the remains of the gates to the city. Buildings are well maintained and on the sq… Read More
2018-01-23 17:00
Guided by our map of Ponta Delgada we are making our way to the Presidential Palace. It is a grey day but it stopped raining. The palace itself is nicely restored with a red façade. S… Read More
2018-01-20 16:32
About twenty years ago, we went on our first weekend together in a small castle around Chantilly, France. It made a real impression on us and we tried to visualize our memories. There is no… Read More
2018-01-05 19:48
The castle of Domaine de Chantilly is surround by water. A great impression but the interior is even surpassing this. We start with an incredible library and fireplace. Some of the rooms are… Read More
2017-12-30 11:19
The gardens of Chantilly castle were being prepared for the Prix d’elegance a combination of cars and fashion competition which was held for the first time in 1920. The castle is one o… Read More
2017-12-17 09:42
Chantilly is known for its horse racing track and great stables. The race track in combination with the 18th century architecture is mind blowing. You always see people interacting with hors… Read More
2017-11-28 17:00
This incredible bridge over the Taag River is more than 2km long. It was named after the revolution of 25th of April in 1974 which ended the military regime in Portugal. The bridge is enormo… Read More
2017-11-25 17:00
This Portuguese memorial in the suburb of Belem (Lisbon) is really impressive. On top of a green blue water pond, they erected a modern pyramid. Here burns the eternal flame to honor the fal… Read More
2017-11-22 17:00
In Lisbon we are docked with the Celebrity Equinox a flag ship from Celebrity Cruises. It is our favorite cruise line and I pose for a picture with this giant that has a capacity of about 3… Read More
2017-11-19 17:00
The grandeur of the Jéronimos Monastery is marked by it richly decorated dome tower. In front of the building is a perfectly landscaped garden with bush carvings, statues, flowers and… Read More
2017-11-16 19:00
The Arena of Nimes has been built about two thousand years ago with the Colosseum of Rome as model. The fighting pit for the gladiators is a lot smaller but still offers capacity for 25.000… Read More
2017-11-11 17:00
In this article, we see Kristel at the first fountain before entering “Les Jardins de la Fontaine”. The water looks a bit green, probably due to the hot weather. Bridges and stat… Read More
2017-11-08 17:00
It was a warm evening in Nimes and restaurant Skab provided one of the best outdoor garden diner experiences you could wish. The restaurant has a good reputation with a rising star chef who… Read More
2017-11-05 17:00
This monument or temple built during the Roman Empire is more than 2.000 years old. It was dedicated to the sons of Emperor Augustus and seems to be in excellent shape. Standing under the ro… Read More
2017-11-02 17:00
We were in the south of France, in a city called Nimes. To our surprise, the city was very green with lots of parks. Getting rid of our car at the main train station was not easy. From the A… Read More
2017-10-30 17:00
There she is, the Celebrity Expedition, a small cruise ship which residents permanently in the Galapagos. We are going to board and already see some animals: a pelican, a frigate and an igua… Read More
2017-10-27 16:00
After a short zodiac ride from Baltra port to the Celebrity Expedition ship, we put our luggage in the cabin and start cruising the Pacific Ocean. Above us we see a few frigate birds. We sta… Read More
2017-10-24 16:00
After a long journey from Europe to Ecuador, we have a connection flight in Quito. From here we still had to fly a few hours to Baltra which is located in the Pacific Ocean. After landing, w… Read More
2017-10-22 16:00
On our way from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai, in the northern part of Thailand, we stop at the Twaweesin hot springs. Around the hot spring, locals made a garden and built some shops. Everything… Read More
2017-10-19 16:00
We have been looking forward to writing this article since it covers one of the most beautiful temples we ever saw. It is a story like the Sagrada Familia, a religious monument under constru… Read More
2017-10-16 17:47
This Thai artist is well known for its paintings and wooden constructions. He also gave painting lessons to members of the royal family. The museum is also called the Black House and consist… Read More
2017-10-09 16:00
We arrived in the small village of Sobruak, there is only one street with a few hotels and restaurants. Most tourists come here to see the Mekong River and the border point of Thailand, Myan… Read More
2017-10-06 16:00
It was hard to find a parking place in Lecco but we managed to get rid of our rented car outside the village. We had to walk a few kilometers alongside the lake. This was refreshing, the win… Read More
2017-10-03 16:00
One of the best attractions of Como is the Brunate Funicular. A small steep train takes you to a hill, 700m above the lake. Once on the top, you have very nice views over the city and there… Read More
2017-10-01 16:00
In this article we would like to share a few pictures of the beautiful cathedral of Como. Its dome is green on the exterior and gold from the interior. The church façade is decorated… Read More
2017-09-28 16:00
This sushi restaurant is decorated with modern art work and white flowers. We like this style. When traveling we try to find good Japanese restaurants and have a sushi for lunch. We selected… Read More
2017-09-25 16:00
The Como Lake provides visitors an authentic Italian feeling with a touch of modern art. The lake surrounded by mountains is a wonder of nature. On the water, people may rent old bumper boat… Read More
2017-09-22 16:00
The Okura Prestige in Bangkok is a five star Japanese hotel. It is well known for its restaurants, worldwide. After some internet research, the hotel was recommended as one of the best for t… Read More
2017-09-17 16:00
In the area of Siam Square which is easily reachable by Skytrain you find many different shopping malls ranging from budget prices up to extremely expensive luxury products. In the late afte… Read More
2017-09-14 16:00
In the vicinity of the well-known shopping district of Siam Square, we decided to walk away from the tourist area and discover the area. Walking an imaginable rectangle of a few kilometers b… Read More
2017-09-11 16:00
What were wood and fish warehouses for centuries has been transformed in an entertainment area with shops, bars, restaurants, life music and a carnival fair. This is a perfect place to spend… Read More
2017-09-08 16:00
Whenever we have the possibility in a major city, we try to publish pictures of modern buildings. In Milan we had plenty of opportunities thanks to the 2016 world exhibition architecture. We… Read More
2017-09-05 16:00
This amazing shopping gallery in Milan was built according to the same architecture as a gallery in Napels. We have visited both buildings and in our mind they were identical. Looking back a… Read More
2017-09-02 16:00
We have to admit that we almost don't know anything about fashion and don't buy expensive clothing. It is however clear, even to us, that Milan portrays itself as fashion city in the world… Read More
2017-08-30 16:00
At the time we booked the AS Hotel Limbiate Fiera on Booking.com, we saw a modern hotel with very nice facilities like a bar and restaurant. This was indeed the case and we had an excellent… Read More
2017-08-27 16:00
This cathedral in Avignon is superb because of its front terrace and golden statue of Our Lady on the top of the clock tower. Looking up in the sun, she shines from high above the city marke… Read More
2017-08-24 16:00
This half pedestrian bridge in Avignon is well known for its song "Sur le Pont D'avignon". It’s a French song of kids dancing on the Avignon Bridge and singing about important people a… Read More
2017-08-21 16:00
It seems the popes had to be seriously defended because the city of Avignon looks like a fortress with in the middle a huge castle. The main entrance is located just beneath a two tower cons… Read More
2017-08-18 16:00
This little city in the south of France is classified as UNESCO world heritage and we understand why. Surrounded by a circular defense wall, the old city is only accessible via a few roads a… Read More
2017-08-15 16:00
Pictures say more than a thousand words so we will keep it short. Gardner Bay beach is a crowded place full of sun catchers. This time no slim ladies in miniscule bikinis but mainly lazy sea… Read More
2017-08-12 16:00
Arriving with the zodiac boat, we are ready to go into the shallow sea water to snorkel. First we put on our wet suit because the water is really cold. Crabs are crawling on the green slippe… Read More
2017-08-09 16:00
Wildlife in the Galapagos is exceptional. During each hike we are amazed of the beauty and fearlessness of the animals. They have no human enemies here and the islands are protected against… Read More
2017-08-06 16:00
It is always hard to take night pictures from a distance. We are on the Buda hill and the parliament is far away. We cannot leave without a reasonable shot. Walking down to the Danube river… Read More
2017-08-03 16:00
The Citadella on the Buda side of Budapest is a fortress on the hill top overlooking the Danube River. We are walking alongside the river and the light disappears fast. There is just enough… Read More
2017-07-31 16:00
The Stefanus Basilica is one of the largest churches in the world and the Hungarians are proud of this. It has a capacity of more than 8.000 people, a landmark of Budapest and one of the sym… Read More
2017-07-28 16:00
Most people arrive in a big city by train and we were expecting more visitors in the Central Station. It was however a Sunday so less professional commuters. In the morning it was rather col… Read More
2017-07-25 16:00
The first cathedral of Quito is located at the Main Square. Its white tower is covered with decorations and stands side by side with a green yellow dome. A great church in front of the victo… Read More
2017-07-22 16:00
Colibris are birds which are known for its speed. Their wings move at an astonishing pase that they almost become invisible. A top performer Colibri can open and close its wings up to 80 tim… Read More
2017-07-19 16:00
Looking at the National Library book collection in Quito, you realise that the local population doesn't read that much. The architecture of the building and the gardens are however extraordi… Read More
2017-07-16 16:00
Espinoza Point is a combination of lava, trees, cactuses and clear shallow waters. Just looking down into the water, you see fish swimming and occasionally also sea iguanas. They move fast w… Read More
2017-07-13 16:00
For us was this one of the most amazing walks on the Galapagos. On our way, we went through a landscape of grey shiny rocks enriched by large cactus trees. We saw several animals never seen… Read More
2017-07-10 16:00
After lunch, we arrived at Punta Vicente Roca with the Celebrity Expedition. The zodiac boats are prepared and are lowered into the rough sea. For people sensitive to motion sickness, medica… Read More
2017-07-07 16:00
In the vicinity of Mae Hong Son you find the village of Pang Mu. Monks are building here a new temple on a hill side. In the dry season the temple can easily be reached but in the rainy seas… Read More
2017-07-04 16:00
In the city centre of Mae Hong Son you find two neighboring temples near the lake. The Wat Chong Kham was built first in 1827 and was the first temple in the province. It has a wooden constr… Read More
2017-07-01 16:00
This big wooden hotel is located near the small city of Mae Hong Son. The hotel is rather old but has large rooms and a swimming pool with ice cold water. Something for daredevils in the hot… Read More
2017-06-28 16:00
As tourist, it is nice to stroll a while on La Mariscal market were local products like coffee, cacao and herbs are sold. You also find here souvenirs, clothing and leather products. It is o… Read More
2017-06-25 13:45
The Theatrum looks a bit like a Greek temple. The musical of Les Miserables was on display. We were invited on the first floor for a buffet and tried some local dishes. It is always nice to… Read More
2017-06-21 16:00
Quito is located on a height of about 3.000 meters. From the El Panecillo Hill next to the Virgin statue, we look down to the capital. You see the two towers of the cathedral, colored houses… Read More
2017-06-18 10:07
In the port you find many sail boats and yachts. Old factory buildings get a new destination or are replaced by modern offices, hotels and restaurants. We tried an Italian snack in one of th… Read More
2017-06-14 16:00
The Rheinturm or the radio tower of Dusseldorf is a real landmark for the city. It has a height of 240m and the views from the bar and restaurant are fantastic. Around the tower and alongsid… Read More
2017-06-11 16:00
Together with our friends from Belgium, Koen and Kim, we walked alongside the Rhein Promenade in Dusseldorf. We were surprised of the strong current cargo boats have to fight to make their w… Read More
2017-06-08 16:00
Espanola Island is full of crab. Every rock above water level is a playground for crab. Some just sit there, others challenge each other to a fight. The Sally Lightfoot Crab with all its col… Read More
2017-06-05 13:38
In one of our previous articles, we already showed some pictures of the Albatross on Espanola Island. This time we took pictures of many different species: frigate, swallow tailed gull, finc… Read More
2017-05-31 16:00
We arrived on the beach with a zodiac boat of the Celebrity Expedition. We were warned to be careful of the iguanas, they are so numerous that it is difficult not to step or fall over one. S… Read More
2017-05-28 16:00
We are at Punta Suarez on Espanola Island of the Galapagos in Ecuador. Hiking this small region for a few hours gave us so many great impressions that we are going to publish four articles a… Read More
2017-05-25 16:00
This island has already an abbey since the 7th century. It has been built up in phases around burial grounds of thousands of years old. You could compare the abbey with a castle or church bu… Read More
2017-05-22 16:00
A few days ago we published the views of the Mont Saint-Michel. Today, we are entering the medieval city with its narrow alleys and hills. For the romantic adventurers, you can also find hot… Read More
2017-05-19 18:19
We started driving early morning from Paris and were looking for a restaurant to have lunch just before arriving at Mont Saint-Michel. We found Le Manoir, a small restaurant on the way. They… Read More
2017-05-14 16:00
The Mont Saint-Michel is one of the top landmarks of France which you have to visit. It is a city located in the province of Normandy. At high tide, the city of Mont Saint-Michel gets discon… Read More
2017-05-11 16:00
Unfortunately the Palmenhaus built in the late 19th century was completely full when we visited the green house. It contains a brasserie and coffee bar but we didn’t get a table. The g… Read More
2017-05-08 16:00
In the city center of Vienna at the Getreidemarkt, you find an excellent apartment complex where we booked a studio for a few days. It contained a sleeping room, kitchen and living room. It… Read More
2017-05-05 16:00
The Vienna parliament is in perfect condition, the walls are pure white, no pollution traces. Its main hall looks like a Greek temple with tall columns. Everywhere you see statues of Gods cr… Read More
2017-05-02 16:00
The restaurant is right in the city center of Vienna, close to the museums and the parliament. It has a modern interior and the food is very nice. We tried the bruschetta, the salmon carpacc… Read More
2017-04-29 19:01
As expected the Plaza de la Cathedral is dominated by this enormous church with a sun shaped and colored dome. The cathedral is visible from the beach and is a landmark for Cadiz. On the squ… Read More
2017-04-23 16:11
This park is ideal for a stroll and sitting on one of the mosaic benches, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. All areas are landscaped with fountains, walking pavements, benches and mosaic. E… Read More
2017-04-03 09:52
This is one of the most beautiful squares of Cadiz where the city hall is located. It is close to the port, has several restaurants with terraces and is decorated with flowers. The towers of… Read More
2017-03-30 16:00
In the southern Spanish coastal town of Cadiz, you find many beautiful parks. Park Genoves with its sculptured trees, palms, flowers, water cascades and ducks is one of them. Everywhere are… Read More
2017-03-27 04:46
It is sunny weather in Bordeaux and Kristel is ready to pose for a picture at one of the fountains on Place de la Bourse. We are on our way to the Saint Emilion for a bicycle tour alongside… Read More
2017-03-22 17:00
On the busy Quai du Maréchal Lyautey, we found La Belle Epoque, a typical Brasserie Bordelaise. The interior of the restaurant was retro but we decided to sit outside on the terrace w… Read More
2017-03-18 09:16
Mayer Alain Juppé has clean-up the city in the last two decades. Not only restoring the historical buildings but also adding open space and views around the river banks. In this artic… Read More
2017-03-14 17:00
We could not resist to take pictures of this 125 years old specialty shop in Maastricht. Their main products are coffee, tea and nuts. All products are homemade and the smell in shop is amaz… Read More
2017-03-11 17:00
Modern architecture in a club lounge style with amazing food prepared by the two Michelin Star Chef Hans van Wolde, makes this restaurant one of our favorites in the world. Their credo is Be… Read More
2017-03-08 20:47
In our previous article of Maastricht, you saw the modernisation of the city with marvelous architecture. Here in the Bassin, factories are abandoned, and remain standing in their skeleton… Read More
2017-03-05 17:00
The city of Maastricht was named after the Maas River which flows through the capital of Dutch Limburg. It is a cozy city close to the Belgian border. From both river banks, you have nice vi… Read More
2017-03-02 18:27
This defense wall of Cadiz was built in the 18th century and marks the border of the old city. It is very wide and still armed with cannons. There is however no enemy to be fought. Below we… Read More
2017-02-26 17:00
This square and monument were erected for the celebration of the Spanish constitution of 1812. Surrounded by green sculptured trees and red flowers the victory column stands out in the sun l… Read More
2017-02-23 17:00
It is low tide and the small fisher boats are stranded on the beach. In the background you see Fort San Sebastian with its lighthouse. The weather circumstances are good and people try the c… Read More
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