State College, borough, Centre County, central Pennsylvania, in the Nittany Valley; incorporated 1896. Situated in a fertile farm area, it is chiefly residential and has research and development firms producing electrical and electronic equipment, ceramic chips, and computer soft-ware. Other products include printed materials and chemicals. The Christopher Columbus family chapel, moved from Spain in 1919, is locat-ed nearby. The community, settled in 1859, is named for Pennsylvania State College
Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Great Britain by surface area, sits at the gateway to the Highlands and offers visitors a wide variety of ways to explore its islands, waters, and surrounding hills. Stretching over 22 miles and dotted with more than 30 islands, the loch has long been a source of inspiration for poets, musicians, and travelers.
Sintra, located just 40 minutes from Lisbon, feels like a world apart. Tucked into the hills of the Serra de Sintra, this town has drawn kings, poets, and explorers for centuries. It was once the summer retreat of Portuguese royalty, who left behind palaces and gardens that seem pulled from a storybook. The most famous, Palácio da Pena, is perched high above the town with bold red and yellow towers that blend Romanticism with Moorish and Gothic styles.
Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares.
Photo Credit: Photo by Robby McCullough on Unsplash
Kanazawa, Japan, is a captivating city that offers a unique blend of historical charm and cultural richness. Known for its well-preserved Edo-period districts, Kanazawa is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese experiences. The Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, is a must-visit for any traveler. This beautiful landscape garden features serene ponds, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers, embodying classic Japanese aesthetics.
Another gem in Kanazawa is the Kanazawa Castle, which, though rebuilt, retains the grandeur of its original structure. The castle's impressive stone walls and historical exhibits provide a glimpse into the feudal past of the region. Explore the castle grounds and discover the rich history of the Maeda clan, the ruling samurai family of Kanazawa.
For those interested in traditional crafts, Kanazawa is renowned for its gold leaf production, which dates back to the 16th century. The city is home to several workshops where visitors can see artisans at work and even try their hand at creating their own gold leaf art. The Kanazawa Gold Leaf Museum offers a fascinating insight into this craft.
Fun Fact: Kanazawa is also known for its vibrant 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, which stands out for its innovative architecture and diverse exhibitions. The museum's round shape and transparent walls make it an architectural marvel in its own right.
Other Popular Destinations in Japan
Tokyo
Shopping, historic temples, lush green spaces and exceptional dining are all part of Tokyo, the capital of Japan. This spectacular, highly populated metropolis holds unlimited options for tourists.
Kyoto
Travel through enchanting Kyoto to discover a cultural and spiritual haven in Japan. Once the country’s imperial capital, Kyoto is now home to magnificent shrines, lush botanical gardens and nature parks, and exceptional culinary delights.