The Baroque City of Dresden should be on everyone’s itineraries. The Saxony Capital offers splendid historical architecture.
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Revisiting Dresden
Tag: itbberlin
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MORE & MORE ITB BERLIN
ITB Berlin continued to inspire travellers this past week.
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Pisa, Not A Cartoon Gag.
How many Saturday Morning cartoons did I watch with the Tower of Pisa as a center of joke? Always the same gag, the character’s actions either shift or straighten the famed structure. Never mind the animation jokes, the 14th century architectural work is worth the trip to Pisa. As one of the most recognized designed forms, I had a sense of amazement walking up to the Tower, a soft, noble elegant presence that even tourist doing the common pose could not cheapen.
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Salerno On Tap
More to come on the undedapprecicated Amalfi city. I had a two day then loved the coastal resort.
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A GASP Upon Entering
Located near my hotel, it was an easy walk to the Royal Palace of Naples. The Baroque and Neo Classical palace sits in the Piazza Del Plebiscito in the center of Naples.
Many of the great rooms took my breath away. I made an audible Gasp on entering one chamber, one I have not made that sound since an encounter in London with a Slim Irish Guy. I was visually stunned both times, however, the 17thcentury Palazzo may have won the contest.
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2500 Years Old, Yet Still Wondrous
Not far from Salerno, Italy stands the ancient city of Paestum. The 2500 year old once Greek Colony feels like a movie set waiting for extras. Except this is no scene from an epic Hollywood film, it’s history. I admit it, this place is incredible.
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Haunting Ruins of Pompeii
On a visit to South Italy, a visit to the once grand city of Pompeii is a must
Stay tuned for the full story.
Stay tuned for details on Naples. The Italian city offers splendid historical records of human history.
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Travel 2019 Trends
Overtourism
After attending the ITB Travel Fair 2019, I learned the travel field continues to grow. More want to get away, however, questions are being asked of the effects. “Overtourism” is becoming common. As a result, Many cities have become overwhelmed by holiday makers. Town centers have been abandoned for tourist. Barcelona, Venice, and Prague are being hollowed out. Coping with the traveler influx has become political and economic topics.
Apartments used for AirBnB, big hotel chains grabbing any available space. Public spaces flooded with visitors armed with selfie sticks. Locals started rebelling against tourists, weary of the temporary guests. The answers are not easy. Recently, a picturesque Parisian neighbourhood petitioned to place gates on the street to stop the weekend Influencer invasion searching for the the perfect gram.
Less Painful
Can flying economy become human again? Perhaps flying in the back of the plane will improve. Airlines are upgrading their services with new seats offering more leg space. Can the budgets say, “AMEN!” Middle East carrier Qatar Airways ups the game. I checked out their new Airbus livery. I give it top marks. A wide choice of in flight entertainment, bigger food portions, and even Godiva Chocolate for dessert. A good product for those looking for a better travel experience without breaking the wallet.
Africa Rising
AFRICA TOURISM 
The Gambia
Africa is rising. The continent offers destinations based on experience: a trek to Victoria Falls or a Safari in Namibia. Many countries are developing tourism infrastructure, upgrading airlines while building hotels. Zimbabwe and Sierra Leone, two places not known as tourist friendly locations, are open for business. Asking adventure seekers to give their countries a try.
Colombia
Colombia continues to move forward on all tourism fronts. A place once known for drug cartels and civil wars has made great strides to become a travel destination. Blessed with an extensive beach coast, mountains, and an multicultural mix of people, the South American country is rolling out the carpet for every type of visitor. Brimming with a smile, the marketing head told me how his country wants to become a top LGBT holiday spot. Many cities have pride and other gay friendly festivals. The capital city Bogota, has a large gay population with many bars and clubs. Moreover, Cartagena and Medellin have vibrant scenes worth exploring. I placed Colombia on my travel list. Stay Tuned.
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ITB Berlin 2018
Where to GO? How to GO? When to GO? The ITB is the world’s biggest travel fair, 26 halls dedicated to global tourism in Berlin.
Images by Vladimir Smichov for Black and Paper