Turkey

16 Incredible High Viewpoints Around The World

16 Incredible High Viewpoints Around The World

I'm a sucker for high viewpoints.

In every city I travel to, one of my "must-dos" is to find a high viewpoint. Why? I love taking in the surroundings from the angle, seeing where I've walked around below.

Plus, much of the time it includes an adventurous aspect like a hike or stumbling across it unexpectedly. #adventure

With my camera in tow, I've made it to the top of some incredible high viewpoints around the world.

And, as always when it comes to traveling, there is often a story behind the photo.

In this post I'm sharing with you 16 of my absolute favorite viewpoints I've been to around the world!

7 Tips To Prepare For Your Trip To China

7 Tips To Help You Prepare For Your Trip To China

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7 Useful Tips For Anyone Heading To China!

7 Useful Tips For Anyone Heading To China!

Heading to China? Here are some essential tips to help you prepare for the exciting journey ahead!

Especially if you are from a Western country and have never been to China, you'll definitely want to ensure you read through this post as it covers the basics of this complicated, exciting, and very unique place in the world.

(Please keep in mind that I am writing this from the perspective of having visited main cities like Beijing, Hangzhou, and Shanghai!)

1. Get your visa

If you need a tourist visa - chances are, you do - provide plenty of time beforehand to get one. You'll need to drop off or send in your passport to the embassy or consulate to get your visa inserted.

One of the cool things about being a U.S. Citizen is that the Chinese visa lasts 10 years! That makes the price not seem so bad, knowing you can return within the decade.

The Bund Shanghai Skyline during the daytime

The Bund Shanghai Skyline during the daytime

2. Know the address of the first place you're staying

You will need this for your departure card at customs. The woman sitting next to me on the plane was filling her card out and didn't know the location since she was going on a tour. Make sure you know the address so you can smoothly move through customs.

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Beijing at Night

3. Have the address of your hotel written out in Chinese characters, if possible

Not many people in China speak English, especially cab drivers. Having a printed out version of the characters will make it a lot easier to show a cab driver where your hotel/place of accommodation is upon arrival. You can find the character version on the hotel's website.

The Great Wall of China

The Great Wall of China

4. Learn basic Chinese phrases

Hello (ni hao) and thank you (xixi) go far in any country. Also try to learn the words for any foods you may have allergies to so you can communicate that at restaurants. Mandarin is an extremely difficult language to learn and pronounce for non-native speakers, so don't beat yourself up if you can't learn a whole lot prior to departure.

Hangzhou Monks

Hangzhou Monks

5. Prior to leaving, download VPN apps

Jokingly referred to as "The Great Firewall of China," you'll notice that many popular websites are censored in China. If you'd like to have access to blocked sites such as Google, Gmail, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Netflix, etc. you will need to download a VPN prior to arriving in China.

There are a number of free or paid VPNs you can find. I used Hola on both my desktop and iPhone, and also SurfEasy on my iPhone. I recommend having a backup VPN on each device - my Hola stopped working on my desktop and there was no way for me to download a new VPN after that (because the sites to download a VPN are also blocked, obviously). I used the paid 1-month version of SurfEasy for $5 and then canceled my subscription after I got home.

Here is a full list of blocked websites in mainland China.

VPNs I currently use when traveling (updated 2017):

  • TunnelBear

  • SurfEasy

Also, since this post was originally published I am aware that Netflix and Hulu do not allow you to access their sites in other countries, even if you are using a VPN that changes the appearance of your country location (found out about this in Europe!). I personally haven't had issues with the other sites on VPNs, though.

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Forbidden City

6. Get plug adapters

China and Australia have same/similar electrical outlets, so make sure if you're not from there to get an adapter. The voltage in Chinese outlets is 220V, so also check your electrical appliances to make sure they're the correct voltage.

VIDEO: How To Use Travel Adapters!

Chinese Street Meat

Chinese Street Meat

7. Be open-minded

If you come across something completely different than what you're used to at home, try to be open-minded and go with the flow. For example, as an American I had never used a squat toilet or been to a public bathroom without toilet paper. However, there are both squat and throne-style toilets in China that may or may not have TP and soap. Instead of complaining, be prepared by keeping pocket tissues on hand as well as a small bottle of hand sanitizer.

If you've never been to China you may experience many cultural differences in China in terms of food, social norms, and communication. Embrace it and enjoy it!

GOING TO CHINA SOON?

Book a place to stay - my all-time favorite booking website is the well-known Booking.com - I’ve used it for years all over the world.

It is the easiest way to search and find the best hotels (hostels too!), especially based on reviews. I always check the reviews on Booking, even if it’s a name-brand hotel. You never know!

READ NEXT:

China Travel Guide

10 Foods You Must Try in China

A Few Things That Surprised Me About China

Finding Color in Istanbul, Turkey - 15 Stunning Photos

Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Grand Bazaar Istanbul

Oftentimes the most exciting part about experiencing a new city is what you visually see - the food, the architecture, how people live. Istanbul was one of the most vividly cultural places I've been to in terms of the experience but also with what I saw through my eyes.

While finding an excellent view of Istanbul is a great way to enjoy a its beauty, there's also beauty in the details.

After browsing these photos I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if you booked the next flight to Turkey.

Fruit for Sale in Istanbul

Fruit for Sale in Istanbul

Topkapi Palace Tiles

Topkapi Palace Tiles

Istanbul

Istanbul

Spice Market Istanbul Turkey

Spice Market Istanbul Turkey

Street Art Istanbul Turkey

Street Art Istanbul Turkey

Hagia Sophia at Sunset Istanbul

Hagia Sophia at Sunset Istanbul

Inside the Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Inside the Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Turkish Breakfast

Turkish Breakfast

Turkish Bloomers

Turkish Bloomers

Colorful Homes Galata Tower View

Colorful Homes Galata Tower View

Flower Istanbul

Flower Istanbul

Colorful Street Istanbul

Colorful Street Istanbul

Tiles Topkapi Palace Istanbul

Tiles Topkapi Palace Istanbul

Pomegranate Juice Istanbul Turkey

Pomegranate Juice Istanbul Turkey

Where To Find The Best View of Istanbul

Galata Tower view in Istanbul, Turkey
Galata Tower view in Istanbul, Turkey

Galata Tower

When I was living in Italy and working as a tour guide, our trips were around Italy or Western/Central Europe. I loved visiting new countries every weekend and each city we went to holds a special place in my heart.

While I was in that region of the world, however, I wanted to experience something a little different. During a weekend off our regular trips, my friend Mollie and I went to Istanbul for a few days.

The architecture in Istanbul is beyond beautiful, and was a refreshing change of pace after Western Europe's cathedrals and castles (though those are beautiful, too).

The best view of Istanbul? From the Galata Tower.

Definitely head up there when you are in Istanbul!

Galata Tower from Topkapi Palace

Galata Tower from Topkapi Palace

Galata Tower view in Istanbul, Turkey

Galata Tower

Galata Tower View

Galata Tower View

Colorful Homes Galata Tower View

Colorful Homes Galata Tower View

Galata Tower Views

Galata Tower Views

Aerial View Galata Tower

Aerial View Galata Tower

Istanbul Turkey Galata Tower View

Istanbul Turkey Galata Tower View

Eating Around Europe: What To Try In Turkey, Croatia, Italy

#prost

#prost

It wasn't long ago that I was spooning creamy pesto onto my pasta in Italy or nibbling on a bretzel in Austria. The food in Europe is as delicious as it is diverse, and is as diverse as the countries themselves. If you're any sort of a foodie, you'll love trying different foods as you move through Europe. And if you're not a foodie, you'll be surprised how delactable each country's specialties will be. I've rounded up a few European countries with foods you must try while there - think of this as a teaser for your taste buds.

Ireland: Oh goodness, my Guinness!

Guinness is the dark ruby red beer (it's actually not black!) that hails from Ireland. While it's feels filling, it's surprisingly low in calories - only 125 per pint - making it a smart beverage choice when you pair it with heavier foods such as Shepherd's Pie or potatoes. Another staple to try in Ireland? A traditional Irish breakfast. And what's that black pudding stuff? ....Don't ask, just eat.

Germany: Prost!

#prost

#prost

You'll find the best brews in the land of Oktoberfest. My preference is Hefeweizen for a wheaty, fruity flavor, which you'll find as well as the bock, pilsner, or alt beers, to name a few. Pair your beer with soft pretzel, bratwurst, or spätzle.

Austria: Soccer-what?

Austria, similar to Germany, has some of the best beers, sausage, and pretzels. You must try sachertorte, a specialty in Austria - it's a slightly dusty chocolate ganache cake that tastes fantastic with espresso. Austrian desserts tend to be lighter and fluffier, so the sachertorte is a slight break from that.

Italy: Where you cut the pizza yourself (and it's way better that way)

Ah, Italy, the food capital of Europe. Fresh tomatoes await, adorned atop Caprese salads or sandwiched between a panini. You'll undoubtedly want to try true Italian pizza, noted by how you slice it yourself. Drizzle olive oil on top after it's served for some extra flavor.

Hand-crafted pasta of all shapes and sizes are another obvious choice for lunch and dinner eats; try different types with new sauces and you'll never be bored with the limitless variations of textures.

When in Rome, do as the Romans do, and pair your meal with wine. Finally, finish it off with a sweet dessert, either with tiramasu or gelato for something satiating, or with a few sips of often-complimentary limoncello.

Also read: Where to find good food in Florence on a budget and The Best Places in Italy to Eat traditional Italian foods

Turkey: Would you like fries with (in) that?

Besides shepherd's salad (diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and green peppers) the food in Turkey tends to be more meat-heavy. Meat and rice make for a tasty and filling combination, so make sure you come hungry. You'll find kebaps all around Europe, and they make for a nice snack after a night out. Though you don't have to save kebaps for just late nights post-party, and in Turkey you'll see them everywhere. Meat, rice, veggies, fries, and yogurt (it's different than American yogurt, more of a garlic-sour cream sauce), are delicious all combined in a wrap.

Have a sweet tooth? Finish your meal with baklava, Turkish tea, or freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

Croatia: Fish...a whole fish

Croatia Fish

Croatia Fish

Seeing as the country of Croatia contains so much coastline, it's no surprise that the seafood is out of this world. You'll order fish at a restaurant, and it'll be incredibly fresh - so much so that it comes on a plate complete with the head, skin, and bones. If you haven't eaten fish that way and the thought makes you wary, at least give it a try - once you get past the skin you'll realize it is definitely worth it. And definitely delicious.

Other Croatian food is somewhat Italian inspired (they do share borders, after all), and you'll find variations of pizza, pasta, and gelato, as well as fast food restaurants.

Where To Find The Best Views In Istanbul

While Istanbul is a major tourist destination, it still isn't as well-known as other major European cities like Paris or Rome. In fact, when I went to Istanbul last year, many of the reactions I got were, "Wow, that's random." In reality though, Istanbul is far from "random." Turkey is the true connector of Europe and Asia, and Istanbul is very far west Turkey, close to Bulgaria. With the Bosphorus Strait, Marmara Sea, and Black Sea surrounding the capital city, Istanbul has an extensive international history. Today, it is visited by many who enjoy the blend of Ottoman and European architecture, Mediterranean food, and attractions to go to.

Istanbul is a beautiful city. If you find yourself there, you must take advantage of many of the locations where you can find spectacular views. Here are a few:

Galata Tower View

Galata Tower View

Galata Tower

This tower stands at 205 feet tall. It was built in 528 AD and renovated in the 1300s. What was once a former watchtower is now an observation viewpoint. It is great for panoramic views as you can see across the water to the Asian side as well as the mosques in the distance. Look down for some people watching at the surrounding cafes.

Address: Bereketzade Mh., Galata Kulesi, Beyoğlu, Turkey

Price: 18.50 TL

Topkapi Palace view in Istanbul, Turkey

Topkapi Palace view

Topkapi Palace

This huge palace was home to the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. Other than the gorgeous architecture, colors, and rooms, the Topkapi Palace also is home to some seriously stunning views of Istanbul. Since the palace was built atop a hill, the elevated views of the Bosphorus, the Asian side, and even the Galata Tower can be found.

Address: Babıhümayun Caddesi

Price: 30 TL

admara hotel

admara hotel

Adamar Hotel's Rooftop Restaurant

Right near the famed Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, this rooftop bar and restaurant atop the Adamar Hotel provide amazing views. Imagine watching the city and mosques light up at sunset while you eat!

Address: Yerebatan Cad. No. 37 34110 Sultanahmet - Istanbul

4 Essentials For a Weekend in Istanbul

Istanbul Mosque

Istanbul Mosque

Last fall I had been itching to go somewhere a little more exotic and different than Western/Central Europe, and was thrilled when I found cheap flights to Istanbul, Turkey's largest city. For a long weekend, I wandered around the city with a friend to explore a place neither of us had been to. Immediately we were in awe, as the city blends the east and the west, evidently seen through the culture and architecture. The people were friendly and the streets were bustling. Since we just had a few days there, we set out on hitting the major must-see attractions, but also walked around plenty in the attempt to stumble upon random shops and cafes. Here are a few must-see things we did that I highly recommend you do if you find yourself in Istanbul:

Galata Tower

Galata Tower View

Galata Tower View

Head to the top of the Galata Tower for a fantastic view of Istanbul. Once at the top, you slowly make your way around the tower which gives you an amazing panoramic view of the city, the water, and the mosques in the distance. Look down and people watch those walking around the streets or dining at an outdoor cafe.

Topkapi Palace

Topkapi palace

Topkapi palace

The Topkapi Palace was one of my favorite places we visited. Nestled on a hill, there are spectacular views of the city and the water surrounding the castle. The rooms throughout the palace are covered in bright colored tiles and stained glass windows that add to the grandeur of the former stomping grounds for the Ottoman Sultans. Inside the palace was the jewel room, which I LOVED. You aren't allowed to take photos in the jewel room, so I only have my memories - think swords and other weaponry completely covered in gems, decorative bowls, and large chests with giant, pure emeralds.

Mosques

Istanbul Mosques

Istanbul Mosques

The mosques in Istanbul are grand and elaborate from the outside, but even more so on the inside. While we didn't have a chance to go to Hagia Sofia (something to do next time), we did get to the Blue Mosque and the New Mosque. Being inside the mosques was relaxing and peaceful. I instantly felt a sense of calm. Make sure to dress conservatively in the mosques with covered shoulders, knees, and toes, plus a head scarf for women.

Grand Bazaar/Spice Market

Spice Market Istanbul

Spice Market Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar and Spice Market were two places I weren't very fond of, but nevertheless are interesting to experience. The shop salespeople were mainly men who were very pushy and annoying just to get you to look at their items. The Grand Bazaar was large and there was a ton of selection on Turkish goods, plus some of the typical souvenir stuff. The Spice Market had a ton of spices (of course), and if I were one to cook, I would've stocked up on everything from paprika to cumin to pepper. The Spice Market also had shops with plenty of Turkish gifts to buy, including traditional Turkish foods like baklava. While these weren't my favorite places to go to, I'd still recommend a look around because there is quite a variety of shops.

There is plenty more to do in Istanbul, and these four essentials only scratch the surface - but will definitely make for a trip to remember as part of your weekend itinerary.