Treasure of Italy - Valerie Oyler

About the destination: Among all European capitals, London holds the most profound place in the hearts of travelers. We become familiar with London even before we realize its existence, and when we finally visit the city, it never fails to meet our expectations. The iconic red double-decker buses, the police officers and stoic guards at Buckingham Palace, the historic Westminster Abbey, and the familiar chimes of Big Ben, all of which we've heard of before, greet us with a sense of satisfaction. However, London is full of surprises. It's not just a quaint city. It's not merely a museum, even though you could spend all your time hopping from one to another. It's a bustling, sprawling metropolis, filled with traffic jams, stores, and an incredibly diverse international population. Explore the numerous monuments that span nearly a thousand years of history, from Chaucer's grave to the pub where the Mayflower's captain drank, to Piccadilly Circus, one of London's most photographed locations. But don't overlook modern London, with its vibrant theatre scene, international cuisine, political protests, the latest in music and fashion, punks and aristocrats, and everyone in between. In 1777, writer Samuel Johnson said, "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life," and this statement still holds true. There's something new to experience every day in London.

About the destination: York, graced by the heavenly Minster and bridges arching over the River Ouse and Foss, will gently entice you into its ancient, rose-colored precincts. The city has long been protected by magnificent 13th-century walls, which still stand in most parts of the city. These walls arch over the four chief gates to the city: Micklegate, Bootham, Monk, and Walmgate. Beware, in York, the streets are called gates, the gates are called bars, and the bars are called pubs. York’s enchanting mazes are crammed with sightseers, but despite the crowds, the city’s vast treasury of history is well worth exploring. A lovely introduction to York is a promenade along the city’s medieval walls. Start at Bootham Bar and walk toward Monk Bar. This is the most beautiful part of the wall, offering glimpses of the Minster through the trees. The magnificent Minster is estimated to contain more than half of the medieval stained glass in England. The Great East Window is the largest stained-glass window in the world. Ascend the 275 steps of the Lantern Tower for a broad panorama and visit the Undercroft Museum for an archaeological and architectural history of the site. The Castle Museum is a must-see; it is one of the best folk museums anywhere. Visit Kirkgate, a cobbled reconstruction of a Victorian street that will transport you back in time. A city dominated by history, York is the perfect place for those with a love of the past. But York is much more than just a heritage city; its pubs are noted for their lively atmosphere and live folk music.

About the destination: As the capital of the medieval kingdom of Scotland, Edinburgh is arguably the most stunning city in Northern Europe. It remains the hub of Scotland's autonomous administrative institutions, managing to avoid becoming overly modernized or excessively large. The city is a blend of medieval alleyways surrounding a majestic castle, elegant 18th-century townhouses encircling lush parks, and a thriving cultural scene. The undisputed centerpiece of the city, Edinburgh Castle, can be seen from miles away, peeking around street corners. Within its walls is the 11th-century Queen Margaret's Chapel, the oldest building in Edinburgh. As you walk towards the palace, you'll pass Gladstone's Land, a medieval dwelling, and Lady Stair's House, a 17th-century townhouse that houses memorabilia of Scotland's literary trinity: Burns, Scott, and Stevenson. The final stretch of the Mile, the city's old quarter, is the Canongate Tolbooth, which houses the People's Story Museum and is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. For a panoramic view of the city, climb Arthur's Seat, a dormant volcano located in Holyrood Park. Calton Hill also offers breathtaking views of Edinburgh. But there's more to Edinburgh than just sightseeing. For a taste of urban life, visit Stockbridge, a charming community filled with students, coffee shops, and great pubs. Every August, the city hosts the Edinburgh International Festival, a three-week celebration of the finest music, theater, opera, and dance. Thousands of culture enthusiasts flock here, and the city goes above and beyond to ensure their satisfaction.