This way we get to our today’s focus, the glass temple of Johor Bahru, one of the wonders of architecture that leave us in awe. Located just close to the southern border of Malaysia with Singapore, Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman temple is known as the glass temple because glass is the material used to cover it almost entirely.

Being one of the oldest temples in Johor, Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman had an ascendant course as it was just a small shelter back in 1922 when it opened its doors. Gradually, it turned into this wonderful Hindu temple. It was in 1991 that this place of worship truly expanded. Chief priest, Sri Sinnathamby Sivasamy, took over the administration of the temple and initiated and completed the works of rebuilding the temple. This is how they reopened the temple to public in 1996.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman glass temple

The idea of covering the temple with glass came to Sri Sinnathamby Sivasamy one day when he was traveling in a Thai rickshaw and saw a light in the distance that caught his attention. He wanted to see where that light was coming from. It turned out to be a glass artwork at the entrance of a temple. It was then that he knew he wanted Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman to have that shine.

It took one year to cover 90% of both the inside and the outside of the temple with 300, 000 colorful but fragile glass mosaics. The pieces of glass used are red, white, yellow, purple, blue and green.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman glass temple

You may find the place quite blinding as the light of the crystal chandeliers reflects on the pillars, walls and floors covered with glass. After a couple of minutes when you get used to the light, you will be amazed of the beauty of the place.

All this work of dressing the temple with glass cost around $1million. Donations and community programs that raised funds made this possible. The temple is not only impressive through its glass covered surfaces and beautiful Malaysian architecture but it is also a spacious sanctuary where 1,500 devotees can be accommodated.

Whether you want to visit the place to pray and collect your thoughts or you want to see this astounding work of art, Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman opens its doors to tourists and devotees.

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman glass temple

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman glass temple

Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman glass temple

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A part of Shanghai is not that Chinese…actually, we would say that is not Chinese at all in matters of looks (except for the people of course). Thames Town is a remarkable replica of an English town. Opening its gates back in 2006, the town led to some complaints coming from English pub owners such is the resemblance between the original and the replica.

Although a great sum of money was invested in this project, the town didn’t impress locals that much. Or at least some of them.

The Chinese version of England – Thames Town

The classic English houses, the iconic red telephone booths, the Gothic cathedral as well as the cobbled streets make you feel like you’re in England for real. There’s even a fake Thames Town .You’re reminded that you’re in China just when you see the inhabitants of the town. There aren’t too many of them though as it isn’t that affordable to live in the area. Houses of 307-377 square meters reach $600,000 and $750,000. No wonder why the Thames Town is now a ghost-town.

The Chinese version of England – Thames Town

We would go and say that they did a great job and that it’s a pity the project wasn’t as successful as the investors expected. If you’re in China, the town is worth a visit anyway. It stands for the meticulousness and accuracy of Chinese people and it brings an English touch in an Asian country. And just look at the pictures. You wouldn’t say it’s China. This means they did a very good job and they have our appreciation.

The Chinese version of England – Thames Town

The Chinese version of England – Thames Town

The Chinese version of England – Thames Town

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Corsica

Many people associate holiday and free time with an island surrounded by crystal clear water, scenic landscapes and tranquility. Well, Corsica seems to have them all. The beautiful mountains just fall into the deep blueness offering spectacular images for those who pay the place a visit. So, if you happen to have a yacht too, then this is the place to go!

Corsica

Iceland

Iceland comes with a pack of goodies…and volcanoes. But the very volcanoes make this place worth every second. And then you get to see the stunning Northern Lights, too. Aurora Borealis puts on quite a performance that is a must-see all the way!

Iceland Northern Lights

Kerala, India

If you’re more of a backpacker and you’re not that much into fancy and luxurious things and places, then Kerala is the place to go. You can experience India in its most chilled form by staying in a tea planter’s villa or even try a houseboat. Nature, relaxation, tranquility! The best ingredients for a refreshing holiday!

Kerala, India

Lake Kuzuryu, Fukui, Japan

The picture really says it all! How can you not want to see such a place? Just viewing it is so refreshing. Well, imagine a couple of days or even more of living in such a place. After experiencing the crowded Tokyo, you can relax in the more tranquil side of the country and try Lake Kuzuryu.

Lake Kuzuryu, Fukui, Japan

Almaty, Kazakstan

Known for its breathtaking landscapes, Kazakstan is a must when talking about a to-see list. It’s where raw nature reaches its ultimate. And it’s where you can try some of the best trekking tracks. So, time to pack!

Almaty, Kazakstan

Tinuy-an Falls, Philippines

One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, Tinuy-an Falls, is a plAce where nature shows its best. And if you happen to be there between 9am and 11am, you get to see the rainbow as well. Sounds and looks like it is worth a try.

Tinuy an Falls, Philippines

Hanoi, Vietnam

If you didn’t get to see Vietnam, then make it be one of the places to visit this year and you won’t regret.

Hanoi, Vietnam

Essaouria, Morocco

The sea breeze, the sandy beaches and the salty air…and a few days off. The description of my perfect week! Well, you can get all that (if you manage to get some days off) if you try Essaouria, Morocco. The country has so many interesting attractions and you may need a day to refresh after visiting the rounds. And this place seems to be just perfect for that!

Essaouria, Morocco

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Located in northern Arizona, Bedrock City sends the fans of the Stone Age and its people into frenzy. Built back in 1972, the city is open all year round except for the Christmas day. The fact that the place is isolated contributes to the feel of an authentic Stone Age.

So, if you plan to visit Grand Canyon, make sure to check Bedrock as it’s just half an hour’s drive south of Grand Canyon and it’s worth every single moment.

The universe of Fred and Barney is recreated with colorful concrete structures where you find the general store, the beauty parlor, the jail and of course the police station. The town is so skillfully recreated that one gets the feeling of being right back in time, in the Stone Age.

Bedrock City, Arizona

Inside the houses of the protagonists, you will find age-appropriate objects like a pterodactyl record player and saber-toothed-tiger-hide quilts. And if you like these things too much, then you can check the general store and buy some Stone Age-like souvenirs such as dinosaur ribs.

Bedrock City isn’t a place without activities. You can watch the Flintstones cartoons at the Bedrock theatre, try the Fredmobile or have a snack like Gravelberry pie or Fishasaurus sandwich. It sounds and looks like the perfect destination for this summer holiday!

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

Bedrock City, Arizona

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The building saw its beginnings back in 1862 when it opened its doors as a prison. It has gained its reputation as one of the most feared prisons in Netherlands throughout the years and recently, as a top luxury hotel.

No one came here to stay of one’s free will when the prison opened its doors. Well, things changed and now people are willing to pay big money just to spend a night in the cells once home to convicts.

What you get here is far from a cell. The former cells are now luxurious accommodations with a chic décor and modern furniture. Thus, the hotel includes four suites, 24 standard rooms and 12 deluxe rooms.

A bar many convicts were probably dreaming of

Since luxury is the word to describe the hotel, you will get to enjoy a sauna, a central patio with olive trees and a fitness center as well as an organic herb garden. The rooms come with air conditioning, tea and coffee machines, flat screen TVs and free WiFi.

Now, don’t worry about the food as the menu isn’t limited to bread and water. You can even have a jail-themed party with the attire typical to a prison and all that stuff. So, if you want to sleep under the same roof hundreds of convicts did but enjoy luxury, Het Arresthuis is waiting for you-the only prison you try because you want so without wanting to ever escape it.

A Prison of luxury

Het Arresthuis- a prison you want to try

Het Arresthuis- a prison you want to try

Sleeping behind bars cant be that bad

The rooms have nothing in common with the former cells

Well, here comes the party too

With such a bath, who wouldnt like to stay in prison

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Just a few miles from Ballycastle, Ireland, the Vanishing Lake disappears from time to time. Loughareema drains itself leaving nothing behind it. This makes it so difficult to believe that there was a lake in that place if you pass by during one of its “not here” phases.

There’s an explanation behind it though. The lake sits on a “chalk plug hole”. Peat fills the hole sometimes and thus water fills the depression. This is when we see the lake. The water drains when the plug clears and the lake vanishes.

The new road

The surroundings are the only ones to help one identify the location of the lake when this one is going through the “not feeling like being admired” moment. Otherwise, you can’t tell that you’re looking at the same place where the lake used to be. This confused even engineers as a road was built where the lake is supposed to be. This is how the road came to be flooded and thus made it impossible to use it. Another road was then built so that the lake would not reach it. The new road is bordered by stone walls.

So, if you plan to pay Ireland a visit and you want to see the lake, you may as well be ready for an “absence”.

Vanishing Lake, Ireland

Vanishing Lake, Ireland

Vanishing Lake, Ireland

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Known as the Venice of Netherlands, Giethoorn is a village located right in the middle of the scenic De Wieden nature reserve. The 50 little wooden bridges, the 7.5 km of canals, the boat rides and the small houses give the place an idyllic look and reminds one of the Italian city.

It’s true that Giethoorn resembles Venice in matters of appearance and structure but as for the history behind this marvelous and tranquil place, the two go separate ways. The first people to inhabit the town were fugitives from Mediterranean areas and this happened back in 1230.

The name of the village (initially, Geytenhorn) means horn of goats because the first inhabitants found a great number of goat horns left after the big flood of St Elisabeth that took place in 1170.

The village became famous in 1958 after Bert Haanstra, a well-known Dutch filmmaker, made a movie here. Thus, Giethoorn came out of its anonymity and turned into a major tourist attraction.

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venice

In the Dutch village you will get to see boats that are typical to the place and are known as punters. The boats make a low sound and are driven by an electric motor.

Giethoorn gathers houses with thatched roofs as well as 18th and 19th century farm houses. You can admire the Dutch architecture by taking a boat ride around the place or you can try one of the cycling paths recently built. Still, if you’re in a Venice-like place, the boat is kind of a must. The village is worth every second of your time regardless of whether you see it from a boat or a bike. Giethoorn is home to a very peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. So, it makes for a perfect holiday destination.

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venice

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venice

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venice

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venice

Giethoorn the Dutch version of Venic

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Well, you may have thought that you can only dine with Dracula in Transylvania. Not this time. The Japanese do have a soft spot for Goths and you can see that very well when paying a visit to the Vampire Café. It’s a must when in Tokyo.

Located in a famous part of the city, the restaurant will introduce you to Dracula’s realm. Instead of flowers you get crucifixes, spooky spiders, skulls, candelabras and of course Dracula’s coffin. Actually, he’s the star here and the baroque music playing just adds to the horror-movie like ambience.

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Once you get there, you will be greeted by waitresses in dark French maid outfits and waiters in tuxedos. With all this, I wonder how can you actually focus on the food served? This place is like a museum where you want to inspect and analyze every single item. It may be helpful to try the place when you’re starving. And that takes us to the menu. The only downside is that it is written in Kanji. As for the foods, you can enchant your palate with French, Italian and of course, traditional Japanese food. You can try a refreshing mix of fruit juice with wine after that.

Prices may seem a bit spicy to some, as you can pay $100 for a dinner for two but the overall experience is one-of-a-kind. You get transported to another time and place. You enter a deliciously terrifying place. And the pictures just confirm it!

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

Vampire Café in Tokyo

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Some of them stand out through their cuisine whereas others through their location. Well, there are a few of them that made history through their…weirdness. People are very creative and creativity can take unusual as well as strange forms. And this is how we get to see and try places like the ones below. Why not seeing your friends in one of these places?

The Vampire Café

The interest in vampires and all things related to them or that offer information about them has increased significantly in the last years (thanks in most part to very skilled writers and movie directors). So, if you’re among those with a soft spot for vampire stuff, then a visit to the Vampire Café in Tokyo will introduce you to the land of gothic and horror land. Dracula’s coffin is probably the creepiest thing to see their. But the place is worth every shiver on your spine!

The Vampire Café

The baobab tree bar

Now that is something really worth trying. You don’t get to see a baobab every day. Just think of having a drink next to or inside one! That’s so possible! The Baobab Tree Bar is located obviously near one of these trees and you can try the inside of it as well. But it’s not just a regular baobab, it’s a 6,000 year old baobab or one of the oldest things on our planet. You can find it at Sunland Baobab in Modjadjiskloof, South Africa. Besides the bar, there’s also a wine cellar so you can spoil your palate with some quality wine.

The baobab tree bar

Guácara Taina

If you’ve  always wondered how life used to be when people lived in caverns, then experiencing a couple of hours in a natural cavern might be just perfect to satisfy your cavern-related curiosities. And while doing that you can have your favorite dishes and desserts as Guácara Tainain in the Dominican Republic offers you a rich menu in a very special location. Don’t expect to be surrounded by anything else but stalagmites and stalactites. With a capacity of 3,000 people, the restaurant has 3 floors and is in hold of one of the most unusual yet unique ambient.

Alcatraz, Tokyo-Japan

If it ever crossed your mind to see what a medical prison looks like, then the Alcatraz restaurant in Tokyo will satisfy that curiosity of yours. You will be handcuffed when you get there and taken to your cell and you will be served strange drinks in blood-transfusion apparatus. And that is an experience to go for!

Alcatraz, Tokyo Japan

Opaque, Los Angeles

And if you just want to enjoy your food without things to distract you like a too colorful restaurant, a too loud music or a too crowded place, then you can dine in the dark at Opaque restaurant in Los Angeles. There’s no light there, so you can focus on the food, its texture, smell and taste. Let’s hope they do have light in the kitchen!

Opaque, Los Angeles

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Located in Dubuy, Belgium, the hotel known as La Balade Des Gnomes, includes 10 themed-bedrooms and a suite that takes the shape of a Trojan cow. Work of architect Dominic Noel, this unique hotel is a mixture of ancient Greek history, medieval castles, science-fiction and of course, “fairytaleness”.

Not only is this place wonderful but it’s also as natural as possible since the materials used at its construction are stone, wood and a mixture of mud with straw and lime known as cod.

The interior of the hotel is as impressive as its exterior. Each room tells a story and you can see that even before entering the room as the name of each of them says all about what you get inside it. Thus, the Macquarie Island room spoils you with a boat-shaped bed surrounded by a marine décor whereas The Legend of Trolls bedroom will make fans of Lord of the Rings go crazy. And if you’re into science-fiction, then you can try the In a Moon Neighborhood room. As for what you get inside it, the name says it all.

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

The star of the hotel though is the Trojan Horse suite which takes its inspiration from Greek mythology as well as from medieval times and tales such as Game of Thrones. Plus, the bovine has a great significance in the culture of the country.

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

So, you get such different stories in one and the same place that we can now enjoy thanks to Noel’s inspiration and creativity and to the local artisans who used their skills to create and decorate the hotel.

The prices range from €120 euros per night to €220 if the Trojan Horse is what you have in mind. But such a place offering such an experience is worth every cent!

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

La Balade Des Gnomes home of fairytales

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