Russian Orthodox Church – Riga, Latvia

February 1, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

As with so many churches in the Baltic countries, the Orthodox Nativity of Christ Cathedral has had a varied life. Situated in a park called Esplanade, the Cathedral was built between 1876 and 1883 when Latvia was part of Russia and has the distinction of being the largest Orthodox cathedral in the Baltics.

During World War I, the occupying German forces turned the Cathedral into a Lutheran church. When Latvia attained independence in 1921, the Cathedral was returned to the Orthodox faith for the first time. However,... [Read more]

VisitEngland’s Quirky Events 2010

January 20, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

New York City (January 20, 2010) – Encompassing the charmingly quirky to absolute eccentric, England offers visitors an abundance of one-of-a-kind events, ensuring unique entertainment and an unforgettable experience for participants and observers alike. From the Isle of White Garlic Festival and annual Nettle-Eating Contest, to the World Toe Wrestling Championship and the Biggest Liar in the World Competition, VisitEngland, the official tourism body for England – comprised of the capital city London and its further... [Read more]

St Peter’s Church The Symbol of Riga, Latvia

January 19, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

The 123-metre high, three-tiered spire of St Peter’s Church is the undoubted symbol of Riga, the capital of Latvia. This brick-built church dates from the early 15^th Century though the spire dates from just after WWII, German shelling having destroyed the previous wooden spire in 1941. Much of the interior decoration was destroyed by rioting Protestants in the early 1500s.

Heading away from the church, the visitor comes to the Town Hall Square, which contains arguably the most beautiful buildings in... [Read more]

Mining for gold in Switzerland, No kidding!

January 16, 2010 · 1 Comment 

I spent the most entertaining afternoon panning for gold in the river in Romoos, Switzerland. The weather could not have been any better. The sun shone high in the sky as I pulled on my borrowed knee high boots and grabbed a shovel. After a quick lesson, I waded into the water and tried my hand at this not all together unsurprisingly difficult task.

First you dig past the heavy rocks, then you fill your pan with what you find, then you shake out the rocks and water until you are left with just a bit of sediment... [Read more]

Christmas in Cardiff, Wales

December 25, 2009 · 1 Comment 

Every winter, the lawn outside Cardiff’s City Hall is transformed into a large ice rink as part of the city’s “Winter Wonderland.” Children and adults alike can skate to the sounds of DJs and live bands, within view of the city’s picturesque civic center.  Those not so confident on two blades can enjoy ice sculptors, festive games (with the essential fake snow) and fairground rides or simply relax in the rink-side café with a cup of mulled wine and a mince pie. Santa, of course, is also on hand to... [Read more]