All articles
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Helen Russel: The Year of Living Danishly
Helen Russell’s book captivated millions of readers upon its release in 2015 with its promising subtitle, “Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Happiest Country”. Before embarking on her Danish adventure, Helen Russell was a busy journalist in London, immersed in the bustling world of media. Her career took a dramatic turn when her husband landed… Read more
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Navigating in the Morning Traffic: The Turbo Roundabout of Kirchberg
In the bustling heart of Luxembourg’s business district, Kirchberg, lies an interesting piece of modern traffic engineering — the turbo roundabout Serra. This roundabout isn’t just a pivotal point in the city’s infrastructure; it’s a gateway through which the daily pulse of transborder commuters flows into the economic veins of Kirchberg. Every day, approximately 217,000… Read more
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The Netherlands’ Markermeer: A Story of Survival and Splendor
The Markermeer is a vast body of water in the Netherlands, spanning an impressive 700 square kilometers. Originally part of the Zuiderzee, a saltwater inlet of the North Sea, it was transformed into a freshwater lake following the construction of the Afsluitdijk in 1932. This change was part of the larger Zuiderzee Works project, aimed… Read more
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Whispers of History: Charles Bridge and the Towering Sentinel
As twilight descends upon Prague, the city’s heartbeat syncs with the cobblestones of the iconic Charles Bridge. This medieval stone arch bridge, which began its journey in 1357 under King Charles IV, stretches across the Vltava river, connecting the Old Town with the Lesser Town. It’s not just a bridge; it’s a corridor through time,… Read more
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Embracing Nature in the Urban Jungle
In the heart of Budapest’s urban expanse, where towering ten-story buildings dominate the skyline, there lies a refreshing oasis of greenery: the Semsey Park in Újpest. Amidst the concrete and steel, the park offers a breath of fresh air with its beautifully arranged floral compositions, providing city dwellers with the much-needed touch of nature. Named… Read more
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Exploring the Musée Fabre A Treasure Trove of Art in Montpellier
The Musée Fabre in Montpellier, France is a testament to the city’s rich artistic heritage. Housed in the elegant Hôtel de Massillian, the museum opened its doors in 1828, thanks to the significant donation of works by the Montpellier painter François-Xavier Fabre. The architecture of the museum is a harmonious blend of classical and modern… Read more
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45 Years of Tatra Tramways in Budapest: A Journey of Innovation and Nostalgia
Forty-five years ago, Budapest started to introduce the ČKD Tatra T5C5 tramways. These Czechoslovakian trams, manufactured exclusively for Budapest by the Prague-based ČKD Tatra company, represented a leap forward in urban mobility. As the 1970s drew to a close, the Hungarian Ganz factory, the default supplier of the city, was increasingly slow in producing industrial… Read more
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The Alzette River: From Tranquil Stream to Torrential Force
The Alzette River, a typically serene waterway that meanders through the picturesque landscapes of Luxembourg, is often seen as a gentle stream, especially near the Pidal swimming pool in Walferdange. This tranquil river, with its modest flow, is a beloved feature of the local scenery, offering peaceful walks and idyllic views. However, the Alzette has… Read more
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Orange Blossoms: Celebrating King’s Day in the Netherlands”
On the 27th of April, the Netherlands bursts into a sea of orange as the nation celebrates King’s Day—a national holiday honouring the birthday of King Willem-Alexander. This day is not just a time for revelry; it’s a profound expression of national unity and pride, deeply rooted in the country’s history. King’s Day, originally known… Read more
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Embracing Fate: Mucha’s Tribute to the Russian Spirit
Alphonse Mucha, a name synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement, ventured beyond the ornate and into the heart of Slavic identity with his profound work, often referred to as “Winter Night” or “Siberia.” This poignant image of a Russian peasant woman, captured in a serene pose, speaks volumes of her resignation to destiny. Mucha’s connection… Read more