FETE DE LUMIERE, LYON

Lyons ‘Fete de Lumiere’, truly one of Europe’s if not the world’s most spectacular events. Attracting up to 4million tourists each year, the annual festival is a celebration of the Virgin Mary sparing the city of Lyon from the dreaded plague that hit Europe throughout the 17th century. Tradition has it that the people of the city would leave candle light by their windowsills on the 8th of December in remembrance to the cities survival. Less of the history lesson lets bring it forward to the 21st century and how this majestic celebration is seen through the naked eye.

Firstly let me say that this is not an event to experience alone, bringing any companion is a must due to the vast stretch of the city, and some trails are long and can be a bit boring. But, accompanied by someone special can add extra spice along with a glass of mulled wine (provided throughout the city) to any of the shows that may be a decent walking distance from the city’s main attractions. For example out in Parc de Tete Or were some of the city’s best assets thrive.

Must see in this festival are of course at Hotel De Ville in Place de Terraux where the city’s main light show is performed. With it changing every year, excitement always surrounds this particular show.

Most notably after that is of course the Fouvriere, Overlooking the city this beautiful cathedral lights up and its lambent can be seen throughout the entire city. Walking through Vieux Lyon or along the River Saone, multiple shows can pop up just about anywhere. If you’re lucky you might just get to see some of the many street parades or acts performed by the multiple ethnic minorities this multi-cultural city hosts. Again just giving you a sample of what can be on offer visiting a city with such a rich heritage to culture and tradition.

Remember..... #WeWereDer

IGUAZU WATERFALLS

VIEUX LYON, THE CITIES OLD DISTRICT

You hear that? , Really, tell me you hear that. The echoes of footsteps running through the traboule’s.  Merchants of silk, bargaining their prices as unsuspected travelers gasp in disbelief of what these simple passage ways provide throughout history.

We talk about France and of course Paris, Marseille and the beautiful coast line of the south, the epic battles that took place for Strasbourg and the historic importance of Britany. Surely these are what we come here for, no? Then we have Lyon, once a refugee camp for ex Roman soldiers expelled from neighboring Vienne, now a diverse European Hub for commerce, gastronomy and culture. But, why go visit this small metropolis?

Vieux Lyon, the cities old district. What a marvelous place to get lost. The cobblestone streets along with numerous restaurants, cafes, bars and bakeries make it an inspiring place to meet a significant other.  Why not venture through each street of this astonishing place lost in time. Originally old Gauls center of religion and silk trades the center now attracts over 2 million visitors each year. Apart from the delicious cuisines that are on offer, hidden passage ways seem to create quite a stir amongst tourists of all walks of life.  Le traboules, these passage ways that are scattered throughout the old town have such an historical importance to them.  The idea came during the 14/15^th century with the cities silk trade on a rise, architects came up with the clever idea of building these passages to divert foot traffic from the already busy streets.  This also helped residents further in the back buildings gain access to water and was also a nuisance for Nazi soldiers during French occupation in WWII.  

Cathedral Saint Jean, dating back to medieval era, this beautiful tribute to gothic architecture truly is one for the photo album. Attached to the side is an old Romanesque building that now hosts the church’s treasures. The cathedral is still the seat of the Archbishop of the region with the name of ‘Gaul’ still attached due to historical importance .During the cities ‘Fete de Lumiere’ you can watch the building come to life with breath taking light shows, perfect for all to attend. With numerous Cafes scattered outside the cathedral and the marvelous Norte Dame de Fourviere overlooking the skyline, it is a must for any tourist or new inhabitant to experience. 

Saint George, home of the infamous Lyonnais mascot, Guignol. His creator Laurent Mourguet derived from a wealthy silk indulged family, through during the French revolution when times got though his creativeness aspired and shows were set up throughout the district. Now a household name, his theatre and legacy live on with shows daily and an abundance of beautiful buildings to surround. The area currently is home to many Irish bars and is now infamously known as the Irish district of Lyon due the numerous Irish residents it hosts.  

Bouchon Lyonnais restaurants, a sin not to mention these delicious eateries.  Dating back as far as the 16^th century, originally hosted the cities silk merchants for meals. Nowadays an abundance of them are scattered throughout the Old Town with only a handful certified as been authentic. The new cuisine style is the inspiration to these humble but mouthwatering dishes. With succulent Saucissons or a filling Quenelles this is truly bliss for any food lovers that stop by this beautiful city.

Only scratching the surface of this hearty city, there is of course much more to discover and unearth here. The cities new slogan “Addicted to Lyon” truly captures the cities effect on people.

 Always remember #wewereder.....

PATAGONIA GLACIERS, PERITO MORENO

Spend four days in El Calafate and explore a piece of Argentina's incredible Patagonia region. Witness active Perito Moreno Glacier, as incredibly massive ice chunks crack off and crash into the chilly waters below—one of Mother Nature's most stunning displays of power. I have been fortunate enough to see some of these glaciers in person – from above, from below, from a distance and from really close up – and they are always an awe-inspiring sight.

The main street of El Calafate is aimed almost entirely at tourists. It feels like every second place is an agency offering all kinds of tours, and of course, a day trip to see the glacier. There is a variety of tours starting from one day tours to 7 days excursions. At first, we were slightly overwhelmed by the choice of agencies, and we went in to a few to get an idea of prices. Do not worry about that, I can assure you, you will find a perfect fit!

On our trip there, we decided to experience different activities, the main being, going on a full day tour to Perito Moreno. The tour picked us up from our hotel early in the morning and after a one and a half hour drive we finnaly arrived to the National Park. The tour included a boat ride and they gave us the choice of waling on top of the glacier! We definitely recommend this, it is one of the most amazing things we have ever done. After walking on top of the glacier, they took us to see the glacier from a more panoramic view all along the catwalks. This is ideal to take good photographs and to enjoy a nice coffe and snacks.

if you’d rather not take a tour, but don’t have a car, there is a public bus with Cal Tur leaving at 8am and returning at 4pm, or leaving at 1pm and returning at 6pm from the (only) bus station in El Calafate.

On your free day, walk the town at your leisure, cruise the lake, or visit one of the several other glaciers of this awe-inspiring area. The town has very good italian restaurants and of course, argentinian cuisine!

We would recommend visiting Perito Moreno glacier no matter how old you are! Remember... #wewereder