Szechenyi Bath and Spa - Budapest

Szechenyi Spa Baths from ZeeGlobe on Vimeo.

Szechenyi Baths and Spa are some of the oldest in Budapest a town renowned for it's thermal waters. This complex first began on this site in Pest in 1881 and has obviously been added to and renovated since then. You can come along and enjoy the pools or have a spa treatment. One of the most popular features is to come and play chess while sitting in the pool.

Berlin - A City reborn

It is no news to the global art world that Berlin has been not so slowly rebuilding. Cheap prices and a blank canvas has made this one of the worlds artist melting spots. At every turn there are creative buildings, sculptural works, art galleries and tributes to the past.

Just one example is  Molecule Man, the work American artist Jonathan Borosky. Said to represent unity and wholeness.
What remains of the wall itself has become a work of art, particularly the section known as the Eastside Gallery. Artists from all over the world have celebrated the fall of the wall.

Architects have also had a creative hand in rebuilding and created symbols of unity. This bridge behind the new Bridge over the River Spree joining East and West.

Modern Berliners have been setting up clubs and pubs anywhere in recent years - many of the clubs have now become infamous and set the pace internationally. An example of making the most of things is the beach bars the are all over the city. Grab a cold beer and deck chair and relax almost anywhere but many are beside the river

White nights in Saint Petersburg

Before arriving and experiencing the white nights for myself I was wondering what it might be like. What does it look like? Daylight 24x7? How does it make you feel? So now having been to Saint Petersburg and experienced the white nights - I too now struggle to describe it. The skies are not in perpetual midday light. However it stays feeling like daylight til midnight and then it feels like twilight. The sky turns a lovely dark blue which is an amazing backdrop to the illuminated buildings.

People feel more energised than is typical for night so you find yourself joining people for a stroll around the city. As its summer the cooler evenings make for a more pleasant walk anyway. Many of the cities museums have gotten into the spirit and you can for example climb up to the platform of Saint Isaacs Cathedral at 2am. 

The House of Terror - Budapest

There are not too many museums that move participants to tears but the House of Terror in Budapest, is certainly one of them. This well thought of museum presents this building's horrific history and indeed the history of Hungarian people very well. It tells of the two worst periods on last century - the Nazi Occupation and then the Russian reign that followed. Scenes of death and destruction and survivors testimonies will live long after you leave. Beware though the scenes are graphic so not suitable for a day out with the kids.

The Hagia Sofia - an architectural marvel

Hagia Sofia, Istanbul Turkey from ZeeGlobe on Vimeo.
The Hagia Sofia has spent its long history (360 AD) as a church, mosque and now justifiably famous museum. Unlike its neighbour The Blue Mosque, which has equal beauty inside and out, the real treasure of this building lies within. In a true blend of religions and era's you can see Islamic features and also incredible mosaics.

Sweeping interiors in the Blue Mosque - Istanbul

The Blue Mosque, Istanbul from ZeeGlobe on Vimeo.
The Blue Mosque or Sultan Ahmed Mosque is one of ZeeGlobe's Top 5 Religious Sites of the World. Justifiably so as the 20,000 blue tiles and high domes make this a magic building in anyone's terms. It is also a working mosque so an opportunity to see the daily life in a mosque. The courtyard is also full of local people taking a break. In the evening friends, families and lovers take a seat in the park and appreciate the impressive exterior as well.

Renting a car in South Africa

On a recent trip to South Africa I had to make the decision on how to get around. My destination was Cape Town and as I was finding public transport is not readily available. This leaves two options - join a tour or rent a car. The roads are excellent so there is no problem driving. A few tips will help though.

• Never leave anything in your car. This includes warm jumpers as windows have been smashed to get hold of much needed clothing in winter
• Warning. At the lights its typical for people to approach you trying to sell things - generally they mean no harm but don't be surprised
• Doors automatically lock once you are in the car. This feature is enabled on all South African cars
• Four way stops are typical at intersections. Its a first come first serve basis.
• Cracking a window slightly gives it more strength should someone try to smash it
• Around the townships there will be people crossing the freeway. Watch out particularly at night as they are difficult to see.