All articles
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Free Water in French Restaurants: A Refreshing Consumer-Friendly Practice
In France, dining out comes with a delightful perk: free tap water. When you’re at a restaurant and feeling thirsty, you can simply ask for a “carafe d’eau” (a jug of water), and it will be provided at no cost. This practice is not only a nod to hospitality but also a consumer-friendly gesture, especially… Read more
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Celebrating 164 Years of Alphonse Mucha: Master of Art Nouveau
Today marks the 164th anniversary of the birth of Alphonse Mucha, the Czech artist whose work became synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement. Mucha’s legacy lives on, not only through his iconic posters and advertisements but also through his profound influence on the visual arts. Born on July 24, 1860, Mucha’s journey into the art… Read more
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The Timeless Majesty of Prague Castle’s Medieval Core
Within the heart of Prague lies a testament to medieval grandeur, the Prague Castle. With its origins dating back to the 9th century, the castle has been the epicentre of Czech history, serving as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. Its medieval interior is a marvel,… Read more
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Love Cast in Bronze: The Kissing Cheesegirl of Alkmaar
In the charming city of Alkmaar, known for its vibrant cheese market, stands a bronze statue that captures the essence of local tradition and romance: the Kissing Cheesegirl. This endearing work of art is not just a tourist attraction but a symbol of the city’s rich cheesemaking heritage. The statue was a generous gift from… Read more
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Gothic Splendor at the Foot of Dinant’s Citadel: The Notre-Dame Cathedral
In the picturesque city of Dinant, Belgium, the Cathedral Notre-Dame stands as a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Built on the banks of the Meuse River, this 13th-century edifice replaced a 10th-century Romanesque church that collapsed in 1228, leaving only the north door. The cathedral’s most iconic feature is its separate 16th-century pear-shaped bell tower,… Read more
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Echoes of the Past: The Art of Memory in Prague’s Vintage Grocery Shop
At the National Museum of Prague, nestled within the 20th-century history section, lies a charming reconstruction that whisks visitors away to a simpler time. It’s a quaint grocery shop, complete with a mechanical scale and a cash register, a nostalgic homage to the days before digitalisation swept through our stores. This reconstituted shop is a… Read more
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Alkmaar’s Hidden Lanes: Living Among History
In the charming city of Alkmaar, the narrow streets whisper tales of the past, winding through a cityscape dotted with historical buildings that stand as monuments to bygone eras. The Old Town (Binnenstad) of Alkmaar is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, where each building tells its own story. Historical Buildings: Windows to the Past… Read more
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Bridging Cultures: The Goethe Statue in Strasbourg
In the heart of Strasbourg, on the Place de l’Université, stands a monument that is more than just a commemoration; it’s a symbol of the deep cultural ties between France and Germany. This is the statue of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the famed German poet, playwright, and thinker, whose connection with the city embodies the… Read more
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Alkmaar and the Economic Legacy of Cheese
In the charming city of Alkmaar, a statue stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of cheese in the Dutch economy. This article delves into the economic significance of cheese in Alkmaar and the Netherlands—a tale of tradition, trade, and prosperity. The Cheese Tradition in Alkmaar Alkmaar’s cheese market is a vibrant hub of… Read more
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A Scoop Above: De Schepper’s Sweet Success in Julianadorp
Nestled in the heart of Julianadorp, De Schepper stands as a testament to the timeless allure of artisanal ice cream. Founded on the principles of quality and craftsmanship, this charming ice cream shop has quickly risen to become one of the Netherlands’ most beloved dessert destinations. The Foundation of Flavor The story of De Schepper… Read more