When you think of the Acropolis you are probably thinking of this one, the Acropolis of Athens (also, Citadel of Athens), but it’s not the only one. There are quite a few throughout Greece, but we’re not talking about them, this is all about THE Acropolis.

The Panathenaea festival is held here every four years, which is the only constant thing in the Acropolis’ history (which began around 3000 B.C.) — unless you count change as constant. The monument has been repaired and rededicated for centuries by and for various rulers. It’s been a temple, a fortress, and a church. These days it’s mainly used as a tourist attraction.

The Acropolis Museum, located on the property, houses the valuable artifacts from the Acropolis.

There is more history here than we can fit in one travel post, but know this — the Acropolis is a must-see in Athens, and its history is humbling.

Like you need an excuse to visit Greece!

Photo: Petros Giannakouris/AP courtesy of Life Books

Washington, D.C. is home to numerous iconic attractions. You can’t go home without taking a picture of the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, and it’s practically unAmerican to visit without stopping at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Of course you’ll also get your photo taken in front of the White House, and everyone who’s ever been to D.C. has already told you to go to the Smithsonian museums. Your list of things to do and see in the capital is already long, but consider adding these overlooked attractions for a trip you’ll never forget.

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It’s May. High school seniors are graduating and looking forward (or maybe not) to college. Parents are looking forward (or maybe not) to their children leaving the nest, and tuition costs. It’s the time of year when parents and prospective students tour the colleges of their choice before making a final decision.

ASU Campus - Normal School building, built in 1884.

Arizona State University’s main campus is in Tempe Arizona, and has one of the largest annual enrollments for a single campus in the nation. ASU also has several satellite campuses in the Phoenix Metro area. It is a member of the PAC-10 conference, and offers a dizzying array of technical and business programs, at the Bachelors, Masters, and Doctorate levels.

There’s lots more information and pictures! Click here to Read More »

One of my favorite things to do when visiting a new city is walk along the streets with my camera pointed at the sky.  My traveling companions will often admonish that I “look like a tourist!”, to which I reply, “I am a tourist!”

Miami Beach‘s South Beach offers a unique and distinct skyline rich with history and pop culture folk lore.

The Carlyle in South Beach

Any self guided walking tour through the Art Deco Historic District should include a look at (and several pictures of) these buildings:

The Carlyle Hotel – this art deco building has been featured in many films, including The Birdcage and Scarface and is still a sought after location for photo and movie shoots.  In fact, it’s not uncommon to see fashion shoots taking place on the sidewalk in front of the building as you walk by.  The Carlyle is now home to private, luxury condos – so you’ll have to take your pictures from the sidewalk.

The National Hotel – located on Collins Avenue, this hotel has hosted glamorous events by MTV and fashion magazines.  The palm tree lined infinity pool at the back of the lobby provides a postcard perfect photo opportunity.

The National Hotel in Miami Beach

The Infinity Pool at The National

The Ritz Carlton – right next door to The National, this unique Ritz property blends in perfectly with the art deco towers on either side of it.

Casa Casuarina – the infamous former mansion of Gianni Versace, this luxurious building was all the site of Versace’s highly publicized murder in 1997.  Despite it’s gruesome past and break from the classic art deco, it still serves as an excellent testament to the rich architectural history and a must see spot in Miami Beach.

Colony Hotel – a shining example of the impact of neon lights on the South Beach skyline, the Colony Hotel is frequently featured in photographs.  The building’s tacky blue glow at night could only appear at home on Ocean Drive.

Room with an Art Deco View

While these are just a few of the highlights and notorious spots to enjoy in South Beach, nearly every building you come across has an architectural story to tell.  I’m using that as my excuse for taking about  200 pictures in roughly 2 hours.

For those visitors looking for more than a pretty picture, The Miami Design Preservation League offers a variety of tours and historical information about the buildings you’re gawking at.

All photos by Britt Reints.