One World Trade Center in New York City, New York

The World Trade Center is in essence the hub of American capitalism, whether that is a good or bad thing. When there were the two Twin Towers, the New York skyline was a bit different and the World Trade Center was a bustling place. Thousands of people went to work each day in those buildings. I remember going as a child to the top and staring at the views of the Hudson River and the people like ants below me.

Fort Fincastle in Nassau, Bahamas

Fort Fincastle was built in 1793 on Bennet's Hill, the highest point on the island, to watch for pirates. The shape itself is very unique, resembling a paddle-wheel steamer, circular except for a triangular tip. With expansive 360 degree views, you can easily spot your cruise ship or the Atlantis resort in Paradise Island which is presumably how most of you will find your way to this island.

Calton Hill in Edinburgh, Scotland

The best thing about Edinburgh, Scotland is the mixture of natural green spaces and preserved architecture. If the hike up Arthur's seat isn't your cup of tea, a mild stroll through Calton Hill may be a great alternative. This hill is right in the center of Edinburgh and is included in the city's UNESCO world heritage site designation. The small hike to the top will offer great views of the city.

Bird's-eye View from San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, Italy

Stand at Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and peer across the turquoise waters. A bell tower stands tall, just behind a white church. Remember the quest? Always seek a place that offers a new vantage point, preferably with a birdseye view of the city. There is no better way to know a city.

Travel, CityYafen LiangMarch 26, 2017travel, city, venice, venezia, italy, san giorgio maggiore, birdseye, birdseye view, church, history, art, tintoretto, belltower, water, vaporettoComment

Castel Sant'Angelo in Rome, Italy

A far less crowded site than the nearby Vatican City during the height of tourist season, it is a great reprieve from the sun, offering shade, history, and some light provisions on top. Not to mention the 360 views of Rome, including the Tiber River and Vatican City.

Travel, CityYafen LiangMarch 22, 2017travel, city, rome, italy, castel santangelo, castle, fort, angels, history, roman, birdseye view, birdseye, rome single post day 2Comment

Fourvière in Lyon, France

The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a minor basilica in Lyon. The structure itself is iconic in Lyon's postcards. It sits next to the Tour métallique de Fourvière or Metallic Tower of Fourvière, known so some as the sister Eiffel Tower. The courtyards provide expansive views of the city, all the way to Mont Blanc. Inside, the murals glisten with gold leaf adornments.

Travel, CityYafen LiangMarch 20, 2017fourviere, lyon, france, old lyon, vieux lyon, birdseye, birdseye view, mont blanc, cathedral, history, lyon single post day 1Comment

Roman Ruins in Lyon, France

The Romans were a widespread civilization. I had studied them before but even I was in shock that their reaches included this seemingly quiet stronghold of France. Standing in 2,000 plus years of history feels surreal. Dirt and grass patches filled where people once walked. The stairs down towards center stage are as steep as they look. Take a moment to sit in one of the higher rows and breathe in the view of the city in the distance.

Funicular to Fourvière in Lyon, France

The funicular or tram that brings us up towards either the Roman Amphitheatre or Fourvière is an adorable little red cart that climbs the steep hill so we don't have to.

Travel, CityYafen LiangFebruary 22, 2017tram, funicular, lyon, france, vieux lyon, old lyon, hill, fourviere, roman amphitheatre, roman, theatre, roman ruins, ruins, views, birdseye, birdseye view, lyon single post day 1Comment

Bird's-eye View in Lyon, France

Lyon was home for a solid two weeks when I was studying abroad for grad school. I'm not sure where I picked up the philosophy from, but every new city I go to, I try to find the Birdseye view and memorize the map of the city. I find it centers me and lets me appreciate the city from a different point of view.

Travel, CityYafen LiangFebruary 21, 2017birdseye view, birdseye, lyon, france, travel, city, cityscape, skyline, fourviere, cathedral, tram, funicular, lyon single post day 1Comment