Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

        Rio de Janeiro, the most visited city in South America lives up to its title for many reasons. As for places to see and visit, Rio de Janeiro certainly doesn't lack. The Lagoa Neighborhood is the third most expensive neighborhood in South America. The neighborhood stretches around a four mile lagoon called the Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas. It is a well-known area for jogging and cycling, and includes spectacular views from the many cafes it offers.

        Rio de Janeiro is also home to the Maracana Stadium, which was once the largest soccer stadium in the world. It currently seats 80,000 people and is the largest stadium in South America. It was also partially built to comply with the 2014 World Cup.

        If you're looking to explore the night life scene, the Lapa Neighborhood (located in the down town area) is where it's at. Samba, choro bars, music, and dancing are just a few of the fun activities Rio includes on weekend nights. This is also a great place to experience the local cuisine and the national drink. Typical foods include pork, beans, rice and for beach goers coconut water.

       The Christ the Redeemer Statue stands on a 2,330 foot high peak, looking over the city with its arms stretched out wide. It is considered the largest statue of its genre in the world. Visitors can either climb the hundreds of steps to get to the top or take elevators and escalators. 

Christ the Redeemer Statue 

The City at Night

Madrid, Spain

        Madrid is most famously known for its beautiful art galleries, Spanish tapas, and night life views. 

        The Royal Palace is one of the largest palaces in Europe, and is also the official home to the King of Spain. Tours of the Royal Palace include a walk through the rooms that hold vintage tapestries, furniture, and manuscripts that display the Baroque style. The architecture and view from the building are a large part of the attraction as well. This is also a cool place to visit at night. 

       The Puerta Del Sol is considered to be the best known and busiest place in Madrid. It is the center of the radial network of Spanish roads. Located in the square is the famous clock whose bells represent the twelve grapes eaten at the beginning of the new year for good luck. It also hold the monument of King Charles III and the Bear and the Madrono Tree (a symbol of Madrid). 

       The tapas in Madrid are around every corner, and usually found at "tapas bars". Tapas are all different types of snacks and appetizers. They large part of the Spanish cuisine. Tapas are served to encourage people to engage in conversation. Instead of focusing on ordering and eating a larger meal, they can talk while eating several snacks. 

       The old and new culture of Madrid make it a unique place to visit. Madrid seems like a great place to engage in different social experiences, while getting a taste of Spain. 

Madrid

Royal Palace

    Puerta Del Sol

Honolulu, Hawaii

        Honolulu, Hawaii, one of the most widely known destination capitols of the world has more to offer than just its beaches. The island of Oahu makes up 73% of the state's population and is also part of the largest mountain ranges in the world (mostly under water). When visiting Honolulu for the first time, it is said that you are overwhelmed the minute you arrive. The breath taking views, floral scenery, fresh crisp air, and vibrant water colors are just a few things visitors enjoy.

        The blended cultures of Honolulu make the museums, food, and festivals very unique. A large part of Hawaiian culture is the meals. Plate lunches include two scoops of rice, macaroni salad and kalua pork, Korean barbecue, chicken katsu, or beef teriyaki. The plate lunch offers a variety of food while representing the many cultures that make up Hawaii. The 20th Annual Honolulu Festival for 2014 included performers from the Pacific Rim, Japan, Australia, and the U.S. midland. Both modern and traditional dance, music, and arts and crafts play a large part in the festival each year.

        Apart from relaxing on the beautiful beaches, Honolulu has many different experiences to indulge in. Visiting a submarine at Pearl Harbor, learning to surf, exploring the world's largest maze, petting dolphins, and exploring the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo are some of its main attractions. Here is a link that explains the experiences Honolulu offers. Experience Honolulu is a great place to find relaxation as well as once in a life time experiences.

     

Surfing Lessons

Honolulu's Beaches

Bora Bora, Tahiti

        Although I have never been to Bora Bora, it looks like one on the most beautiful places in the world. Not often are white sand beaches, crystal clear blue water, palm trees, and a relaxing/quiet environment found in such tropical place.

        Many social attractions such as jet skiing, boating during the gorgeous sunsets, island tours, shark feeding, and snorkeling are offered in Bora Bora.

        Bora Bora also includes unique bungalows located on the surface of the lagoon. Often times the flooring has small surfaces where you are able to watch the tropical fish swim underneath. The bungalows feature a balcony, view of the sunset, breakfast delivered by canoe, and a vision of the clear sky and water. This is a link to the Four Seasons Resort. Four Seasons

      The culture of the French Polynesia is well displayed on the island tours. The island can be explored either on a guided tour, or by simply driving around the island on your own. The interior can be seen on tours like the nature guide, safari guide, or while horseback riding. 

        Snorkeling and diving is one of Bora Bora's most exciting experiences. Since the water is so clear, seeing the marine life is not a problem. Gigantic manta rays, variations of brightly colored fish, and coral are only a few things you will see. 

       Bora Bora, Tahiti is one of the most exotic vacation places in the world and has so many cool experiences to offer!

Clear Water View 

The Beach

Rome, Italy

        Italy in general has always been the place I dream of visiting. Rome especially has some of the most famous monuments in the world, and attracts people from all different places. When visiting Rome, it is said that seeing the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Pantheon are just a few must see places.

        The Trevi Fountain symbolizes the power of nature and to many is considered lucky. Throwing a coin over your shoulder, and into the fountain supposedly means you will eventually visit Rome again. The Colosseum is a great taste of the Middle Ages, and is a wonderful way to experience some of Rome's history. The Vatican tour allows you will see rooms of art, cultural and religious aspects. The Pantheon was the first temple built for the people of Rome, clearly showing Roman culture. Rome is also home to one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world, Villa Vento. Here is a link to an interactive map of Rome. Map of Rome

        While dining in Rome, Italian favorites are located on every corner. Many restaurants provide outdoor dining and have great views. Meat, red sauces, pizza, and pastas are a large part of the cuisine. The pasta courses, as well as many of the desserts are often the highlight of the menu. Experiencing the food of Rome is often very convenient for tourists. 

        The capital of Italy sure has a lot to say for it self. Italian culture and history are abundant in Rome, and seem to make for a beautiful experience at the same time. Spending time in some of the oldest parts of the world would definitely make for a great trip! 

The Trevi Fountain

A Restaurant in Rome  

 

The Colosseum 

Dublin, Ireland

       Dublin has always been a place I envisioned myself visiting from the time I became involved in Irish dance as a kid and began to recognize my culture. From my last name to the fact that my dad is a bagpiper, it has always been very obvious that I am Irish. The Irish culture of my family has influenced many of my relatives to explore further into not only the country itself, but also the history behind it. Much of my family has visited Ireland, mostly Dublin.

    Dublin is the capital of Ireland, and is also the most populated city in the country. When visiting Dublin you will notice the vast greenery and the old stone buildings. Remnants from Stone Age are an obvious part of Ireland's countryside. 

     In Ireland it is said that kissing the Blarney Stone, which is located in the Blarney Castle will bring you good luck. This is a tradition for many tourists and is one of the largest attractions in Ireland; it was also one of my sister's favorite experiences from her trip. The Blarney Stone is especially significant to my family because it was apparently given to Dublin from Robert the Bruce of Scotland, who was researched to be my 21st great grandfather.  Here is a video of it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zbv6hliU8CM

      St. Patrick's Cathedral is also another very well known site in Ireland. It is still the largest cathedral in Ireland, and was built between 1220 and 1260. The old beautiful architecture of the church is something many people admire. When visiting the church, tour guides provide you with the interesting history of the church. 

      Along with many other attractions in Dublin, you are able to experience the Irish culture in restaurants, pubs, and even just walking down the street (or driving on the opposite side of the car). A typical meal in Dublin includes some type of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. 

      Visiting Dublin is certainly on my bucket list. I would love to experience all of the great aspects of the country my family got to enjoy.  



   

                                                              Kissing the Blarney Stone

                                                             St. Patrick's Cathedral


     

St. Augustine Beach, Florida

 

      Many of my summer vacations have been spent in St. Augustine Beach, Florida, also known as the oldest city in the nation. From the beaches to the historical attractions, and countless places to shop, this city surely doesn't lack entertainment!

       Once you reach the island by crossing the Bridge of Lions, you immediately get a sense of the old Spanish style that the downtown area continues to preserve. The shops, galleries, and restaurants often have their own unique style and architectural structure. While visiting downtown, you can tour the city on the trolley, enjoy the view from the top of the 219 step lighthouse, explore the Fountain of Youth, and even tour one of the old Spanish forts (Castillo de San Marcos).
 
       As you would expect, many tourists are drawn to the nearby beaches. Countless ocean themed restaurants cover the shore and truly offer the paradise experience you would want when visiting one of Florida's many beaches. Crowds are often brought to the beach for surf contests, pier fishing, and of course relaxing in the sun and sand.

       After a long day at the beach, we often visit a family favorite, Sunset Grille. The top deck allows you to experience the breeze straight from the ocean, while enjoying fresh seafood. The mahi mahi, fried shrimp, scallops, and calamari are hard to pass up, especially when the southern service is so nice. Here is a link to their menu. Sunset Grille Menu

      Although I have been to St. Augustine probably over 10 times, each experience is new and exciting. The Florida sunshine and view of palm trees is something I will always look forward to.

Trolley Tour Station

Shopping

Lighthouse Stairs

Beach