Istanbul, Turkey
The Spoonmaker's Diamond
No one is sure if the world's fourth-largest diamond had been found in a rubbish heap or was pawned by Napoleon's mom.
Places I've been
Places this traveler has marked as been there.
Istanbul, Turkey
No one is sure if the world's fourth-largest diamond had been found in a rubbish heap or was pawned by Napoleon's mom.
Istanbul, Turkey
1513 Turkish world map, full of European state secrets and snarky commentary.
Budapest, Hungary
Built in 1870 at the bridge that connected Buda and Pest, this spectacular incline railway was almost lost forever during World War II.
Budapest, Hungary
This Hungarian castle was built out of cardboard and wood until it proved so popular that it got upgraded to stone.
Budapest, Hungary
Late at night, the bust of the "Dracula" actor was snuck onto the facade of this Budapest castle.
Budapest, Hungary
A two-way chairlift system between Zugliget and the highest point in the city.
Budapest, Hungary
Uh, pardon me, ma'am, but I couldn't help noticing that there's a Columbo statue in the middle of Budapest.
Budapest, Hungary
This building has survived for more than a century and remains virtually untouched.
Budapest, Hungary
A random tree outside a Budapest hotel has become a DIY shrine to the late singer.
Budapest, Hungary
Also known as Uncle Karl, the beloved bronze copper keeps a watchful eye on St. Stephen’s Basilica while people rub his lucky belly.
Budapest, Hungary
The true meaning behind this sculpture remains unknown.
Budapest, Hungary
Central Europe's largest collection of mini-bottles is on display at this museum devoted to a bitter Hungarian liquor.
Budapest, Hungary
From Austrians to Nazis to Soviets, this historic Budapest fortress has a history as complex as the city itself.
Budapest, Hungary
A Trabant car, a kangaroo statue, and a plethora of plants take over this abandoned-factory-turned-bar.
Budapest, Hungary
A trail of iron footwear stands as a monument to the thousands executed along this riverbank during WWII.
Budapest, Hungary
This Budapest bar allows drinkers to leave their mark on the walls, floor, and even ceiling.
Vienna, Austria
Dine amidst exotic plants at this former royal greenhouse.
Vienna, Austria
A gift from Emperor Franz Joseph I to his wife.
Vienna, Austria
This museum is dedicated to the little known ancient Roman history of Vienna.
Vienna, Austria
The Habsburgs' royal collections of art and wonders.
Vienna, Austria
Op-art architecture designed for happiness.
Vienna, Austria
Handsomely crafted representations of our round planet.
Vienna, Austria
The townhouse where the "Blood Countess" Elizabeth Báthory started her murderous career.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna's giant wonder wheel had a starring role in one of the greatest noir movies of all time.