Travelogger

We wander for distraction, but we travel for fulfillment.

5 Fantastic Outdoor Destinations For Music Fans

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If you love the outdoors and you love music, bringing the two together is an amazing and powerful experience. Seeing your favorite bands outdoors, under the stars or set against a magnificent vista, can heighten your enjoyment viscerally. Where are five must-see locations to see bands in outdoor venues that are as much a part of the show as the band you are going to see?

The Gorge at George

Located in the middle of Washington, in the midst of high sagebrush plains and irrigated cropland sits one of the United States’ most beautiful concert venues. Two hours from Seattle and two hours from Spokane, it makes no sense logically, until you round that first corner on the way in.

Then you see what makes it magical. A natural bowl on the hillside runs down to a stage that hangs on a precipice overlooking the Columbia Gorge. You can envision Lewis and Clark navigating the historic waters below and marveling at the hillsides towering above them. Hillsides that you sit on now as you enjoy one of the many events of the summer. Majestic music is carried into majestic vistas as the sun sets over the canyon beyond the stage.

Red Rocks Amphitheater

Situated in Colorado, Red Rocks is the only acoustically perfect outdoor amphitheater in the world. Situated below two magnificent red sandstone monoliths, you experience a part of an 868-acre park at 6,450 feet above sea level. A true geological phenomenon, the beauty amplifies the experience beyond the music. You settle in and you are transported to another time as you gaze at the majesty around you, only to be pulled back by the magnificence of the sound around you.

Located in the Rocky Mountains, just 15 miles outside of Denver near Morrison, Red Rocks is easily accessible, with lodging and camping in the surrounding towns and cities.

Great Stage Park

Located in Manchester, Tennessee, Great Stage Park is home to the Bonnaroo Music Festival. A four-day music festival on a 700-acre farm, Bonnaroo features an eclectic and stunning array of music on its many stages.

Started in 2002, this “Really Good Time” (the meaning of Bonnaroo) has grown quickly, allowing the festival to own the land it sits on and allowing the organization to become a major contributor to many significant charitable organizations. Traveling to Bonnaroo and experiencing the Tennessee vibe is one of the best parts of the festival.

Central Park, New York City

A visually unique environment, Central Park in NYC offers an experience like nowhere else can. Concerts range throughout the spring, summer, and fall, ranging from classical to large rock concerts. Some of the most iconic concerts in history have taken place on the Great Lawn, Elton John, Dave Matthews, The Three Tenors, and more. Attending a concert in Central Park is a New York experience that shouldn’t be missed.

The Hollywood Bowl

On the opposite coast and the world apart is the Hollywood Bowl. A legendary venue famous for the acts that have appeared on its stage in its nearly 90-year history. The iconic shell sits in front of the largest outdoor amphitheater in the country and plays host to some of the most famous acts in history performing in front of some of the most famous people in history. Truly a west coast experience.

Tile Art From Around The World

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Tiles, whether made of ceramic, porcelain, or marble, are an integral part of the art and design world around the world – but they’re also a pragmatic feature of many homes, used for flooring and to add character to kitchens. Still, there’s no good reason to hold these two realms, the artistic and the practical, as opposite realms; rather, adding tile detail to your home can be a way to travel without leaving your house, and exploring local tile art can make a wonderful vacation experience.

When abroad, talking to artisans who work with tile or visiting factories are great ways to get a taste of the local culture. Though many handmade or painted tiles may not make sense for your home decor or your budget, you’ll certainly come away inspired and with a clearer sense of what makes each region’s art unique. [Read more…]

5 Top Museums and Galleries to Visit Around the World

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Traveling has long been a way of expressing yourself and getting in touch with the world. Similar to art, your choices in travel destinations and travel-style can be the manner in which you color your life and express your passions and ideas. For the traveling art-lover, finding galleries and museums around the globe may be your ideal vacation. Included here are a few of the top museums and galleries to visit around the world.

Park West Gallery

Located in Michigan, Park West Gallery is a summation of the American dream. Founder Albert Scaglione discovered a passion for fine art at a young age and desired to bring its beauty and benefits to the masses. This idea caused his founding of Park West Gallery in 1969, and caused immeasurable growth since. Scaglione went to school for business, and managed to create a brilliant business plan that meshed his love of art with business savvy in creating his own American dream. [Read more…]

5 Top Architectural Destinations Around the Globe

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Since before the creation of the pyramids, man has been mesmerized by architecture. Architecture is the ultimate in demonstrating man’s creativity and innovation. It is understandable then, when you consider building your own home, that you want to pull tips and tricks from the greatest architects around the globe.

A great way to build your ideas and get a feel for different structures is through travel. Around the globe are incredible feats of architectural achievement, that can only truly be experienced in person. Before you begin a build of large proportions, take time to visit some of these architectural giants around the world. You will get a better feel for your likes and dislikes and may find a completely new muse. [Read more…]

4 Travel Destinations That Allow You to Walk Inside Your Favorite Artworks

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Have you ever dreamed of living in a different time or place? Believing that if you had the opportunity to witness some of these incredible landscapes you, too, would feel inspired? Well, in many instances, some of the most beautiful areas that inspired works of art are still intact. Park West Gallery reminds us that inspiration can happen in the most unexpected of places and should be sought out on a daily basis. Included here are a few travel destinations that will allow you to step inside your favorite work of art.

Van Gogh’s “Cafe Terrace”

If you have ever longed to sit in the vibrant blue and yellow cafe depicted by Van Gogh, long no more! This painting was created at the Place du Forum in Arles, France in 1888. The exact coffee shop depicted by Van Gogh still stands and can be visited among others.

While on your French excursion, spend a day at the Musee Reattu, a modern art museum which houses Picasso paintings among others. If you choose to rent a bike, you can cycle through local vineyards and enjoy some poignant landscape views that may have inspired other works of Van Gogh art.

El Greco’s “View of Toledo”

If you wish to take a Spanish excursion, consider visiting Toledo, Spain. El Greco’s eerie view of this beautiful landscape depicts an otherworldly castle and church that are located along the Tagus river. El Greco was born a Grecian, so consider diving into some Greek inspiration while in Spain. Munch on olives or enjoy any of the delicious Spanish food that can be found in the area.

Monet’s “Water Lilies”

The dreamy, watery landscapes present in Monet’s paintings can transport you to another time, or another place! Rumor has it that Monet discovered his natural muse while riding on a train through the area. He fell in love with the little village of Giverny, hopped off the train and enjoyed a mug of cider while getting acquainted with the area.

In Northern France, Monet’s home in Giverny is now a commune along the river Seine. The home and gardens of his idyllic paradise are open for visitors so you can take a stroll and enjoy his painting inspirations. Located only around 50 miles from Paris, you will have the opportunity to take in many more French sites while being art-inspired.

Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte”

While Seurat’s impressionistic view of this park is a little different from reality, you can enjoy this view of the river Seine near Paris, France. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon, take a stroll along the island in the sunshine and gaze out at the water. This island now offers several informational stands with blurbs about many Impressionist painters. To relish the day as Seurat would, lay back by the water with a pipe and book.