Storybook Charm of Bruges, Belgium

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As published on International Vacation Home Exchange (IVHE.com) on Sat. Nov 21, 2015
Visit the medieval city of Bruges and you’ll step into the pages of the classic fairytale novel, Hansel and Gretel.  Bruges is a magical city with it’s Gothic architecture and an abundance of ornate arched bridges.  You can easily see why Bruges quickly became one of my favorite European cities. 
Like several other cities in this corner of the world, Bruges is a canal city and considered by many to be the “Venice of the North.”  Taking a canal tour is a must-do when visiting this quaint town.  These tours will offers you views not otherwise accessible by land and the tour guides always offer an interesting insight into the city’s history.  The roadways of Bruges offer their own character and charm with cobblestone streets running all throughout the city.  Take a horse-drawn carriage ride and truly experience the old world quality that this compact city has to offer.  Another great way to explore is to hire a bike or maybe you’d prefer to just wonder around on foot getting lost exploring the city side streets, just remember to leave a breadcrumb trail.
However you chose to travel you’ll be sure to find beauty everywhere you look.  This medieval city is one of the few areas fortunate enough to sustain only minimal damage following the two world wars.  It’s considered one of the best preserved cities in Europe.  It’s beautiful architecture has remained in tact enabling its beauty to be enjoyed from generation to generation. 
If the sheer beauty of Bruges doesn’t entice you to visit then they’ve thrown in chocolate, waffles and fries on every street corner to sweeten the deal.  It’s not all child’s play in Bruges though, best known for its beer selection and variety of pubs and breweries, one could easily “pub crawl” their way through the city…I’ve been told.  Bruges is also known worldwide for its luxurious lace.  You’ll find many beautiful lace shops scattered around the city if you are looking for that special souvenir. 
The Market Square or Markt, as it’s referred to, is located in the heart of the city.  You’ll find a variety of restaurants to enjoy all the local delicacies, charming shops to browse through and it’s where the 12th century Belfry of Bruges is located.  Climb the 366 steps to the top of the tower for magnificent views of the surrounding area.  Another top attraction to visit is the Basilica of the Holy Blood.  Though its stained glass and architecture are breathtaking, the Basilica is most famous for housing The Relic of the Precious Blood.  This relic is a glass vial containing a cloth stained with what’s believed to be Christ’s blood.  The cloth is said to have been used to clean Christ’s body following the crucifixion.  Certain times of the day tourists are allowed to walk onto the Alter to lay their hand on the vial and receive a special blessing.  International Vacation Home Exchange offers properties all over the world and Belgium is no exception.  Click here to view luxury propertieslocated near Bruges but rest assured none of them are the witch’s gingerbread house.
Thank you to Lisa Medeiros, Travel Writer/Blogger, for this post on Bruges.  @lisamedeiros_

Europe’s Festive Christmas Markets

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As published on International Vacation Home Exchange (IVHE.com) on Thurs. Nov 26, 2015
Known locally as Christkendmarkt, Marche de Noel, Weihnachtsmarkt, Europe’s famous Christmas Markets bring the spirit of the holiday season to millions of visitors every Advent season.  Stroll the cobblestone streets in many of Europe’s Old Town squares and let the aroma of gingerbread and cinnamon fill the air.  Hold a warm cup of hot mulled wine or cocoa as you browse the quaint wooden huts filled with handmade crafts and Christmas ornaments.  Marvel at the beautifully adorned Christmas tree in town square.  Most of these picturesque markets can be found in the shadows of a gothic Cathedral.  These holiday fairs can be found in several cities all across the continent.  The markets of the different countries will vary to reflect the culture of the region and each will offer its own charm and traditions.  Listed below are a few of Europe’s most recognizable markets.
Strasbury, France
Considered the “Capital of Christmas” Strasburg Market tops the list. It boasts 300 stalls spread out over 12 locations all over Old Town, making it one of the largest and most beautiful markets in Europe.  It’s France’s oldest market dating back to 1570 and was voted “Europe’s Best Christmas Market” in 2014. 
Cologne, Germany
Known as one of the finest of the German Christmas Markets, the Cologne Market is visited by roughly two millions tourists each holiday season.  It’s one of Europe’s most festive markets with its darling huts called “Buden.”  Cologne hosts over 160 stalls where you can experience the magic of Christmas. 
Vienna, Austria
At Vienna’s “Magic of Advent Christmas Market” you’ll shop, eat and stroll around it’s popular square with its iconic City Hall as its backdrop.  Offering 150 or so stalls you are sure to find that special Christmas gift, decoration or sweet.  The trees surrounding City Hall Park are decorated with festive, glistening lights that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit
Prague, Czech Republic
They are known for not only their beautiful market but for their open air concerts in Old Town Square.  You can warm up from the winter chill with a glass of mulled wine or warm honey liquor while you browse the beautifully adorned huts. 
Bath, England
Located near the popular tourist attraction of the historic Roman Baths and Bath Abbey, The Bath Christmas Market’s 170 chalets full of christmas treasures are sure to please.  Visitors come from all around to savor the warm mulled wine along with freshly baked mince pies
Brussels, Belgium
Winter Wonders Market offers a variety of holiday specialties with over 250 charming wooden huts selling crafts, local delicacies and produce.  During the evening you can enjoy a spectacular light and sound show in The Grand Place with its fairground wheel and merry-go-round to add to the holiday festivities. 
International Vacation Home Exchange has exclusive vacation homes located near many of Europe’s most festive Christmas markets.  Browse these properties and turn your next luxury home exchange into a holiday fairytale.
 
Thank you to travel writer Lisa Medieros.  

IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME IN THE CITY

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As published on International Vacation Home Exchange (IVHE.com) on Sun. Nov 28, 2015
“Yes, Virginia there is a Santa Clause.”  You won’t find him on your Starbuck’s Venti Cappuccino cup this holiday season but he is alive and well and spreading his holiday cheer all across Manhattan.  No where else captures the spirit of the season like the holiday events offered in New York City. Here are some of the area attractions offered this Christmas just in time to book your next holiday home exchange.
ROCKEFELLER CENTER CHRISTMAS TREE
Start off your trip to The Big Apple at the world famous Rockefeller Center to view their iconic Christmas tree on display.  The official lighting is Wed, December 2 and the tree will remain lit until 8pm on Wed, January 6th. 
SKATING AT THE RINK AT ROCKEFELLER CENTER
While taking in the beauty of the holiday tree be sure to experience one the city’s most well known traditions with a skate around Rockefeller Center’s ice rink.  The rink only holds 150 skaters at a time so be sure to make a booking. 
RADIO CITY CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
Enjoy the time honored tradition of the Rockettes performing in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.  This annual musical stage show has been a New York City tradition since 1933.  You’ll be sure to enjoy the beautiful choreography, stage design and flying Santa. 
LINCOLN CENTER
Nothing gets you in the spirit of the holiday like George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker performed by the New York City Ballet.  Lincoln Center boasts its own famed tree lighting ceremony and holiday displays for your enjoyment.  
5TH AVENUE WINDOW DISPLAYS
You’ll want to be sure to walk down New York City’s famous 5th Avenue and view the spectacular departments store window displays.  Among the most well know displays are Bergdorf Goodman, Bloomingdale’s, Lord & Taylor, Macy’s and Sacks Fifth Avenue.  These awe inspiring windows displays are reason enough to add 5th Avenue to your list if not for the shopping. 
BRYANT PARK
After you’ve practiced your spins on the ice at Rockefeller Center then you’re ready to lace up again and experience skating at Bryant Park Winter Village.  After you hang up your skates you can browse the 125 holiday kiosk shops to find that one-of-a-kind gift.  This market is just one of the many holiday markets all around the city the holiday season.
WOODBURY COMMON PREMIUM OUTLET SHOPPING
You can finish off your holiday shopping before heading home with a trip about an hour outside the city to one of the top premium outlets.  Their designer store include Coach, Dolce & Gabbana, J. Crew, Jimmy Choo, Sacks Fifth Avenue, Tumi, and Versace to name just a few. 
Book your next luxury holiday in one of International Vacation Home Exchange’sNew York City properties.  Remember that you’re in “the city that never sleeps” so you may want to switch your Starbuck’s order to a double espresso so you don’t miss out on any of the New York City holiday festivities. 
 
Thank you to travel writer Lisa Medeiros

Explore The Natural Beauty of Ireland

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As published on International Vacation Home Exchange (IVHE.com) on Sun. Oct 25, 2015
There’s an Irish saying “May you find what you’re seeking wherever you roam.”  If what you’re seeking is beautiful landscapes, breathtaking vistas, a well poured pint and the friendliest locals then roaming around Ireland is a must for your bucket list.  Planning a visit to the Emerald Isle takes a bit of planning to cover the vast countryside.  I’ve put together a few highlights to help you make the most of your journey. 
Whether you are flying into Dublin or just planning on making your way there, you’ll definitely want to spend a day or two enjoying city center.  Some of the major attractions you’ll find in Dublin would include Dublin Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, The National Museum, Christ Church and The Guinness Storehouse.  At the Guinness Storehouse you’ll learn all about Ireland’s famous beer and have a chance to have a proper pint at their rooftop Gravity Bar while taking in the 360 degree views of the city’s skyline.  Be fairly warned that a pint of Guinness enjoyed at the Guinness Storehouse will surely turn you into a bit of a brew snob as no place else could ever duplicate the freshness or pour it as well.  Luckily the Storehouse is on the city’s Hop-on-Hop-Off bus tour, which is good to know should you decide  to stay for another round…or two.

After you’ve enjoyed the sights of the capital city you’ll want to head south towards County Cork.  Along the way you’ll find Wicklow and Waterford.  You may choose to stop at the House of Waterford Crystal for a tour and a souvenir.  County Cork is home to the famous Blarney Castle.  No holiday in Ireland is complete without a trek up the 127 steps in a pilgrimage to kiss the Blarney Stone and be endowed with the gift of gab.  Kissing the Blarney Stone is no easy task and if you suffer from acrophobia you may wish to take a pass on this one as the participant needs to lean over backwards on the parapet’s edge while lying on your back.  There are assistants on hand to hold your legs as you dangle backwards and upside down for the actual kissing of the Blarney Stone.  Rest assured there are wrought-iron protective crossbars to stop you from actually falling through.  If you’ve waited in the queue and the height didn’t scare you away then there is a photographer on site to capture the moment and photos are available for purchase in the gift shop.  Is it a bit of a cheesy touristy trap? Of course it is but c’mon, why not?

From Cork you’ll want to head up towards County Kerry but not before making a stop at Kinsale and Skibereen along the way to enjoy these picturesque towns.  The Irish brogue in this part of the country can be quite thick but as in all of Ireland the local folks are most warm and welcoming even if you only understand part of the conversation.  Once in Kerry you’ll want to drive The Ring of Kerry which follows the outskirts of the Iveragh Peninsula.  Killarney is considered the starting point of  The Ring of Kerry and one of my favorite towns.  You’ll want to spend some time wondering around the streets of Killarney enjoying the local flavor before starting out on your journey.  You’ll take in some of the most beautiful views the country has to offer along this route. 

Next stop would be a visit to the Dingle Peninsula area.  The driving in this area can be quite challenging.  The roads are barely wide enough for one vehicle let alone two and often times you will need to shift into reverse and back up for quite a while in order to let an approaching car make their way through.  Be prepared to share the road with sheep and cattle and it’s not unusual to find stone walls and hedges as a close barrier on the side of the road.  Consider it all part of the Irish countryside charm.  It’s worth mentioning that sunshine and favorable weather are considered a bonus in this corner of the world so pack your Wellies and a mac and don’t let gray skies get in the way of enjoying what will surely be a most memorable holiday.

You can round out your trip along the Irish coastline with a stop in Galway and a visit to Aran Islands before making you way back across the country to Dublin for one final Guinness before heading home. 
View IVHE properties available for home exchange in Ireland and find out more about how to enjoy your holiday in a home away from home. 
Thank you to Lisa Medeiros, @LisaMedeiros_  a passionate traveler and writer.  

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Lisa Medeiros

Freelance Travel Writer and ex-expat thriving on visiting new places, meeting new people, a good laugh & a glass of wine (best when combined)

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