Frankfurt, Germany Travel Guide

Frankfurt has been one of the most enduring and important trading capitals of Europe form many centuries. Despite a history of war, occupation, and plague, the city continues to rise. Today, Frankfurt is home to The German Stock Exchange, the European Central Bank, and an airport that can handle up to 60 million travelers every year. It is surprisingly relaxed too and a place where beauty and tradition are lovingly enjoyed and cultivated.

 

This balance of tradition and dynamism is the best exemplified in Frankfurt’s architecture. Frankfurt is sometimes called Mainhatten because of its skyline that feels American and its position on the Main River. Yet it still nurtures its heritage via restoration and rebuilding projects. Surprisingly, Frankfurt still remains compact despite its financial giant stature.

Most of its top attractions are located close to the city center, making it perfect for exploring by bicycle or on foot. Cross the city’s beloved pedestrian bridge Eisernersteg into the Romerbeg, Frankfurt’s ancient heart. Since the ninth century, this medieval square has witnessed the worst and the very best of times from coronations, tournaments, and fairs to firestorms and executions. After its devastation by allied bombs in World War II, many of the important buildings in this square have been restored.

Overlooking the Romerbeg is the Romer, it had served as Frankfurt’s city hall for more than 600 years. Just across the Square, you will see some of this city’s iconic half-timbered houses and the spite of Old St. Nicholas Church. This church survived miraculously during the destruction of this old town.

The city’s cathedral the Kaiserdom is about 3-minutes walk to the east of the city in all its golden and red sandstone glory. To the west is the Paulskirche, the cradle of German Democracy. The first elected parliament of the country met here in 1848. Two blocks further is another of this country’s most important birthplaces – Goethe Haus. It is the birthplace of one of the greatest German poet and writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.

Head north to Hauptwache from the Goethe family home. Here, you will find Frankfurt’s historic Opera house symphonic curves and the Zeil, an equivalent of Fifth Avenue. The MMK is just a few blocks away. You can explore the modern art world at this gallery that the locals often refer to as “the piece of cake”.

The story of Frankfurt unfolds at the Historical Museum, from its trying chapters to its triumphant. At the German Film Museum, you can explore the history of film from the early optical entertainments to the elements that go into crafting today’s blockbusters.

Relaxation is also an art form in Frankfurt. You can share some brambles if apple wine with friends or soak up the sunshine on the banks of the main. Sachsenhausen is a great place to lose yourself as you will find narrow lanes with some of the coziest pubs and bars in the city. 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida Travel Guide

Fort Lauderdale is a principal city of South Florida and it is about one hour drive north of Miami. Its extensive canal system and Rivers and connect the Everglades with the Atlantic Ocean. When you are here, it is easy to lose track due to its slow pace. Enjoy fine dining along the ocean, wide sandy beaches, river cruising, and exploring subtropical parks and gardens. Friends of mine who own Performance Chiropractic + Sports Rehab in Edmonton loved their recent trip down south as it gave them a chance to unwind. Fort Lauderdale offers its visitors a great mix of waterfront entertainment thanks to its year-round sunshine.

Fort Lauderdale locals are known for their laid-back attitude unlike their southern neighbors in Miami. What used to be a spring break center for partying college students is now an upscale resort city. Since it is a sunshine state, you will see plenty of people who have migrated from the colder states to enjoy winter on the beach. Showy cars and posh hotels flash up the promenade and luxury yachts line the marina, thanks to this yearly tourism influx.

Las Olas Boulevard

Explore the banks of the New River downtown or browse the boutique shops in Las Olas Boulevard after breakfast along the river. For more than 5,000 years, these waters have provided natural resources for European and Native Americans settlers. Fort Lauderdale got its name from the fortifications built to fight off Indian warriors in 1838. After peaceful negotiations between The Seminole settlers and tribes in 1911, this city was incorporated. The old post office and trading house were built by the city’s founder Frank Stranahan.

Museum of Discovery and Science

At the Museum of discovery and science, the kinetic clock ticks away the minutes while you venture inside to learn about the wildlife, local ecosystems, and weather including reef fish and sharks. This reef can be found about half a mile off the shore far away from the local anglers.

Sunrise Boulevard

The day evolves around sunbathing and cruising for many tourists in Fort Lauderdale. Walk to Sunrise Boulevard to find some great bars and public beaches. There are lush retreats such as the bonnet Gardens and Birch State Park a bit further along the coast. The coastal highlights extend well beyond the Deerfield Beach, the city limits, Fishing Pier. Just nearby you can live like a star in Mizner Park among the artistic amphitheater, Spanish-style stucco restaurants, upscale galleries, and pretty fountains.

Butterfly World

Another must-see attraction in Fort Lauderdale is the tropical paradise of Butterfly World. This place is the result of a local man’s hobby that has now gone wild. With its historic waterfront, sun, and sand, Fort Lauderdale is a destination that will have you relaxed in no time.