Why so interesting? First of all, it might be the oldest city still inhabited in the world! The Bulgarians say that it has been inhabited non-stop for the last 6000 years! Well that’s impressive! It was called Philippopolis, the city of Phillip. The city was originally a Thracian settlement and subsequently was invaded by Persians, Greeks, Celts, Romans, Goths, Huns, Bulgars, Slavs, Russians, Crusaders, and Turks. Woah! That’s quite something! And the remains of those times are still present in the city.
Thessaloniki – 7 interesting facts
Thessaloniki was founded in 315 BC by King Cassander of Macedonia. It rapidly became a very important center and one of the major cities of the kingdom during the Hellenistic Era. Today, mostly a student city and a gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula. Here are some interesting facts that you probably didn’t know about the city.
Ioannina – a very cute pit stop
Have you heard about Ioannina? Me neither. It’s the first town in Greece when you cross the border with Albania. I decided to spend a night here before heading to the famous Meteora. Even though there is not much to do here, I recommend spending a day or two just to soak up the peaceful and local atmosphere.
Greek funeral traditions – candlelight, flies and bone cleaning
I spoke to some locals about the Greek traditions and lifestyle and one of the topics that we touched on was how the funerals are held in the Orthodox tradition. Let’s keep in mind that we are talking about old traditions here and lots of those customs got lost with the time, made more efficient and comfortable.
Split – castles, beaches and Game of Thrones.
Most of the old town is located inside the Diocletian’s Palace. The Palace was built in the IV century! Most parts are of course new, but there are still old Corinthian columns and Sphinks statues that Diokles brought from Egipt. Also, when you enter the Palace through the Irion gate, look to the left – that’s the dungeon where Deneris kept her dragons on the Game of Thrones series.
Plitvice lakes – the incredible blue waters of Croatia
Most of you probably heard about the Kuang Si waterfalls in Laos, or the Ban Gioc waterfall in Vietnam, or even of Samuc Champey in Guatemala. But have you heard about Plitvice lakes? This beautiful natural site is located in the heart of Europe, in Croatia and is part of UNESCO World Heritage.
Zagreb – the vibrant capital
The capital of Croatia has the perfect size. It’s not too big, so the distances are walkable, but it’s also not too small, so it’s not too crowded. The city is more interesting then I thought! In the summer all the small and big squares are filled with musicians! Everywhere you go, there is a small concert going on. And on proper scenes built up with proper sound. It has such a great vibe!
George Town, Penang – the history told through street art
George Town became the first city in Malaya, and by extension, Malaysia. Today, the city is well known for its cultural diversity, colonial-era architecture, and street food.
Penang – the Mecca of Street Food
I am a big foodie, I judge the countries I visit by the food and the people. I need to say that food-wise Malaysia stole my heart. It’s a fantastic mix of Chinese, Indonesian, Thai, and Indian food and it’s all absolutely delicious!
Tana Toraja – where death is not the end
Tana Toraja means “The Land of Toraja People”. It’s a region in the highlands of Sulawesi, one of Indonesia’s 17 000 islands. Why are the Toraja interesting? They have very elaborate burial rites. It’s a very remote place, therefore not many tourists come here. But if you take the time and struggle to visit, you will not regret it. I know, I don’t.