Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Napa & Sonoma
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Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre
Set in the heart of Luang Prabang, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a small museum dedicated to four of Laos’ main ethnic minority groups. Displays include traditional costumes, religious artifacts, and crafts, while exhibits feature signage in French, English, and Lao. The shop is a great source of ethical artisan souvenirs.
The Basics
Tickets to the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre are affordably priced, and revenue goes to support cultural diversity in Laos. Visiting with a guide can help bring the displays to life, and tours with museum guides and curators are available on-site.
Thanks to its central location, the museum is easily visited on foot or by bicycle, and a guide is not required. While many visitors simply wander by as part of their Luang Prabang explorations, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is an occasional stop on Luang Prabang city tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a must-visit for anyone interested in minority groups and those planning to explore northern Laos.
- 50% of each sale from TAEC’s museum shop goes to producers, overwhelmingly minority women who use the revenue to support their families.
- The museum runs half-day workshops in crafts including Hmong embroidery and Khmu bamboo weaving. Book in advance.
- Children under 12 receive free admission to TAEC and coloring materials or a treasure hunt game. A dedicated activity center features hands-on crafts plus costumes for souvenir photos.
How to Get There
The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is around half a mile (750 meters) from the Royal Palace, at the base of Mt. Phousi. It’s an easy walk or cycle from most central Luang Prabang locations, but hiring a private driver for the day can enable you to combine it with attractions farther afield.
When to Get There
The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is open morning to early evening every day but Monday. It’s worth visiting with time in hand to spare for the shop, while the craft workshops, which need to be reserved in advance, operate in the mornings. Free TAEC tours are offered on Tuesday and Friday afternoons.
TAEC and Laos’ Minority Groups
With a population of around seven million, Laos is home to roughly 50 different ethnicities, further subdivided into approximately 160 ethnic groups. The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre focuses on four of the larger ethnicities—Hmong, Khmu, Akha, and Tai Dam—their rich traditions, colorful costumes, and unique handicrafts. A social enterprise, the museum helps support these minority cultures.
Address: Dala Market, Luang Prabang, Laos
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 467
Trapiche Winery
Unlike some of the smaller wineries in the Mendoza area, Trapiche is very well known in the international wine scene, and in fact, the winery traces its history to 1883, and began sending wines to international competitions in Paris as early as 1920. Since the 1970s, Trapiche has been exporting its wines to the international market and has won the Argentine Wine Producer of the Year award twice. Their wines are imported by businesses in 40 countries.
But that doesn’t mean that they have sacrificed quality, and some of their best-scoring wines are a line of single vineyard Malbec, which is made from grapes from high altitude near the Mendoza River valley. Other wines they produce include Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Torrontés, Rosé, Viognier and a Pinot Grigio. Visits to the winery include a multimedia presentation, walks through the cellars and tastings.
Practical Info
Some of the land managed by Trapiche is used for olive trees and vineyards raised biodynamically, which is a system of practices that use traditional calendars based on the phases of the moon and solstices, as well as organic plant and animal products used to enrich the soil.
Address: Trapiche, Argentina
From ¥ 149
Trevi Fountain
The incredibly ornate Trevi Fountain is the most famous fountain in Rome—and perhaps in all of Italy. At the baroque masterpiece’s center stands the Greek sea god Oceanus, who is surrounded by Tritons, seahorses, and other figures from ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Visitors to the Eternal City flock to the Trevi Fountain, as it is internationally recognized thanks to its appearances in many films, and for the legendary good-luck connotations of throwing a coin into its waters.
The Basics
The Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi) is set at the end of the restored Aqua Virgo aqueduct, which dates back to ancient Rome. Water cascades from spigots in several different places, and the palace behind the fountain was redesigned to include majestic columns and statues befitting the fountain below. Visitors jockey for a position from which to throw a coin over their shoulder, supposedly ensuring a return to Rome. Rome walking and bike tours are good ways to see the fountain up close.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes to walk through central Rome's cobbled streets. Walking tours of Rome that include the Trevi Fountain also often visit sights such as the Spanish Steps and Piazza Navona, which are far enough apart to make comfortable shoes a must.
- Distracted tourists make easy targets for pickpockets, so keep your valuables close.
- The Trevi Fountain was the central monument in the movie “Three Coins in the Fountain” and played a memorable role in Federico Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita.”
How to Get There
The Trevi Fountain dominates the Piazza di Trevi in the historic center of Rome, not far from the Quirinal Palace. It's easiest to get there on foot or bicycle, given the narrow streets surrounding the fountain into which larger tour vehicles can't go. On the Metro, take line A to the Barberini stop.
When to Get There
The Trevi is an outdoor public fountain and is open year-round. Given its popularity, sometimes visitors have to wait their turn to admire the fountain, get a good picture, or get close enough for a coin toss. Early morning and evening visits can be quieter and more atmospheric, especially during Rome's less touristed winter months. To avoid crowds and get stunning lighting for your photos, visit at sunrise.
Throwing Coins Is a Charitable Act
Coins thrown into the Trevi Fountain add up quickly, amounting to roughly $3,600 (€3,000) per day. City officials gather the coins each night, and the money is given to a local charity called Caritas, which helps Rome's neediest citizens.
Address: Piazza di Trevi, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Free
From ¥ 23
TramOramic
Get an overview of some of Hong Kong’s best sights on a 1-hour sightseeing tour aboard an open-top 1920s-style tram, which includes an onboard guide, prerecorded commentary, and a mini museum. Gain insight into Hong Kong life and history as you pass by bustling streets, modern skyscrapers, historic landmarks, and top attractions.
The Basics
TramOramic operates in two directions: choose to start at Western Market and head east to Causeway Bay, or vice versa. Either way, this tour takes you through Central, a dynamic business hub and home to many famous skyscrapers such as I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower; Wan Chai, a popular shopping, nightlife, and entertainment district; and Happy Valley, home to the Happy Valley Racecourse. Get oriented on this 1-hour tour, then explore the city at your leisure using the included 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off pass on Hong Kong Tramways; choose among six routes and various thematic journeys between Shau Kei Wan and Kennedy Town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A TramOramic tour is a great way for first-time visitors to Hong Kong to see some highlights and get the lay of the land.
- The best seats are at the front of the upper deck.
- Prerecorded commentary is available in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, French, and Russian.
- Free disposable headsets and rain jackets are provided as necessary.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on board.
How to Get There
You can board the TramOramic at either the Western Market terminus or the Causeway Bay terminus. To get to the Western Market terminus, take the MTR to Sheung Wan (Exit B), and walk along Des Voeux Road Central. To get to the Causeway Bay terminus, take the MTR to Causeway Bay (Exit E) and walk along Yee Woo Street.
When to Get There
TramOramic tours run year-round. Trams depart Western Market at 10:30am, 2:30pm, and 6:30pm, and Causeway Bay at 11:40am, 3:45pm, and 5:55 pm. Arrive early to get the best seats. The upper deck is open-air, which may not be ideal when it rains, although rain jackets are provided as needed.
Key Sights Along the TramOramic Tour
Some of the sights and landmarks that you see during a TramOramic Tour include the Macau Ferry Terminal, Man Wa Lane, Statue Square, the Legislative Council building, the Supreme Court, HSBC Main Building, Bank of China Tower, Pacific Place, Lippo Centre, Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley cemeteries, and Times Square.
Address: China
From ¥ 84
Town Hall Tower
Pisa’s leaning tower may have all the fame, but Krakow’s Town Hall Tower is a must-see nonetheless. Quite literally – as one of the focal points of Krakow’s main market square, it’s pretty hard to miss. Built towards the end of the 13th century, the 70-meter tall tower started leaning (it currently tilts by as much as 55 centimeters) after massively strong winds in 1703. It should be said, however, that the tower survived many fires and was therefore weakened considerably throughout the years.
To this day, the tower is the only remaining part of Krakow’s old town all. Visitors interested in visiting the tower should not worry; the tower is perfectly safe for visitors and even has an observation deck on its upper floor, reachable by a narrow staircase. The tower, as part of the Historical Museum of Kraków and because of its location in the old Cloth Hall, often has artworks and medieval costumes on display. There’s also an underground café, which is housed in the former city dungeons and torture rooms.
Practical Info
The Town Hall Tower is located on the northwestern corner of Krakow’s main market square, Rynek Glowny. It is therefore easily reachable by foot and instantly recognizable. It is not advised to drive into Krakow’s old town center. Admission costs 8 złoty per adult and 6 złoty per children. Family tickets (2 adults and 2 children up to 16) are available at 16 złoty. The town hall tower is open seven days a week from 10:30 AM to 6 PM between April and October, and from 12 to 6 PM between November and March. Last entrance is 30 minutes before closing.
Address: Stare Miasto, Krakow, Poland
Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 6 PM between April and October, and from 12 to 6 PM between November and March. Last entrance is 30 minutes before closing.
Admission: 8 złoty per adult and 6 złoty per children.
From ¥ 82
Trajan's Column
One of the most intricate ancient landmarks in Rome, the enormous Trajan's Column near Quirinal Hill was built in the second century to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s victory over the Dacians. The triumphal column is decorated with bas relief carvings that constitute a diary of battle scenes.
The Basics
Trajan’s Column tells the story of war triumphs via an intricate frieze that spirals up the column, running chronologically from base to top. The column was originally topped with a statue of Emperor Trajan, but it was replaced with a sculpture of Saint Peter in the 16th century by Pope Sixtus V. The column contains a staircase leading to a viewing platform, but the stairs are closed to visitors; to see the bas relief carvings up close, visit Rome’s Museum of Roman Civilization, which displays plaster casts of the scenes.
The bas relief scenes on Trajan’s Column are difficult to interpret, so join a tour with a guide who can explain the frieze in detail. Private and small-group walking tours of ancient Rome visit the column, as do tours by bike or Segway. Most ancient Rome tours also include skip-the-line access to the nearby Colosseum and Roman Forum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ancient Rome tours require a significant amount of time outside, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen.
- The column is visible only from the outside, and is accessible to wheelchair users.
- The column is lit at night, so can be seen during either a daytime or night tour.
- To see the bas relief scenes at the top of the column, bring a pair of mini binoculars for an “up-close” view.
How to Get There
Trajan’s Column is located on the side of Quirinal Hill adjacent the Trajan’s Forum area along Via Quattro Novembre, a five-minute walk from Colosseo metro station (line B).
When to Get There
Visit Trajan’s Column during early spring or late fall, when the temperatures are mild in Rome, and crowds are smaller. This sight can be enjoyed during a daytime or nighttime tour, as the column is illuminated at night.
Friezes in the Museum of Roman Civilization
Roman history enthusiasts can see the entire frieze cycle up close at the Museum of Roman Civilization in the outlying EUR quarter of Rome. Plaster-cast replicas of the battle scenes are on display in horizontal rows at eye level, along with a vast collection of original pieces and casts of artifacts dating from the founding of Rome to the fourth century.
Address: Via 4 Novembre, 94, Rome, Province of Rome 00187, Italy
From ¥ 360
Tram 28
The fabled Tram 28 is rightly one of Lisbon’s leading visitor attractions, the perfect way to introduce the charms of the city and its intriguing maze of steep cobbled streets, hills, vast churches and mirador viewpoints. The route was inaugurated in 1914 and is one of the few still to operate vintage yellow streetcars (‘electricos’ in Portuguese) dating from the 1930s; its full seven-km (4.5-mile) journey starts at Praça Martim Moniz and heads west, ending at the Campo Ourique in Prazeres.
With more than 30 stops, travelers can hop on or off at will as Tram 28 trundles through Lisbon’s oldest districts, from photogenic Moorish Alfama to the sweeping boulevards of Baixa and on through nightlife-central in the Bairro Alto to Estrela, dominated by the ornate spires of its 18th-century basilica. Other sights to catch along the way include the medieval Sé Cathedral in Alfama and São Jorge Castle (St George’s Castle) near the Portas do Sol viewpoint, with sublime views over the red roofs of the city to the River Tagus.
The full route takes between 40 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic. Tickets are sold at subway stations and newsstands as well as on board Tram 28.
Practical Info
Single tickets cost €2.85, or €6 for a 24-hour pass that allows passengers to hop on and off the tram at will (and can be used on other forms of transport). Departures every 15 minutes between 6am and 9pm daily. Watch out for pickpockets on board the trams.
Address: Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal, Portugal
Hours: Open daily 6am–9pm
Admission: Single tickets: €2.85; 24-hour pass: €6
From ¥ 141
Trajan's Market (Mercati di Traiano)
Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano) is one of the most interesting areas of Rome’s five Imperial Forums, built by Julius Caesar and his successors at the very apex of the Imperial Age. This vast, triple-decker semicircle was ancient Rome’s version of the modern-day shopping mall, and it remains a remarkably intact example of Roman urban planning.
The Basics
Trajan’s Market, commissioned by Emperor Trajan and designed by Greek architect Apollodorus of Damascus, was constructed between AD 107 and 113 to complete the Forum of Trajan. The market was extensively excavated between the world wars, and today, although Trajan’s Forum is a hodgepodge of fallen columns and plinths, the market is still recognizable. Explore its passageways and main street as part of a small-group ancient Rome tour on foot or by Segway. Also here is the Museum of the Imperial Forums (Museo dei Fori Imperiali), which contains fragments discovered while excavating the archaeological complex, models of ancient temples and buildings, a huge sculpted head of Emperor Constantine, and temporary exhibitions focused on the history of the Roman Empire.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trajan’s Market tours require a bit of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The archaeological site and museum are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum.
- You must check backpacks, large bags, and umbrellas at the cloakroom.
How to Get There
Trajan’s Market is located on the side of Quirinal Hill in Rome’s Forum area along Via Quattro Novembre, a 5-minute walk from Colosseo metro station (line B).
When to Get There
Rome is one of the most popular destinations in Italy and can be crowded for much of the year. It’s best to visit in early spring or late fall, when the temperatures are mild for exploring outdoor archaeological sites and crowds are sparse.
The Imperial Fora
Ancient Rome once had five Imperial Forums: the Forum of Caesar, the Forum of Augustus, the Forum of Nerva, the Forum of Trajan, and the Forum of Vespasian. These are concentrated around the area around Via dei Fori Imperiali, near the famous Roman Forum.
Address: Via IV Novembre 94, Rome 00187, Italy
Admission: Varies
From ¥ 697
Treptower Park
Treptower Park in Berlin dates back to the end of the 18th century and runs along the Spree – the city’s most famous river. Perhaps best known for the Soviet War Memorial located in it, this public park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll and perhaps a spot of people-watching, particularly alongside the river’s promenade.
At the end of World War II, three war memorials were built in Berlin to commemorate Soviet deaths – particularly the 80,000 soldiers killed during the Battle of Berlin. The Soviet War Memorial in Treptower Park is a both a memorial and a military cemetery, built to commemorate 5,000 of these men. The memorial consists of two over-sized red flags flanking a walkway through the middle. At one end is a statue of ‘Mother Russia’ weeping, while at the other, a bronze statue of a Soviet soldier stands atop a burial mound.
During Berlin’s separation, parts of the Spree served as border areas and as such there’s a memorial to mark this in the middle of the river itself. The Molecule Man structure is a 30-meter high metallic statue featuring three men facing each other and joining hands, signifying the reunion between Berlin’s neighbourhoods after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Practical Info
To visit the park, hop off at Treptower Park station – it’s served by the S-Bahn line.
Address: Alt-Treptow, Berlin 12435, Germany
From ¥ 219
Trakai
Trakai is a historic city and lake resort 28km (17mi) west of Vilnius and is a popular day trip from the capital.
Dating back to the 13th century, Trakai was unusual in the fact that was inhabited by a number of difference nationalities simultaneously. Historically, Karaims, Tatars, Lithuanians, Russsians, Poles and Jews all lived in Trakai. Trakai Historical National Park was founded in 1991 to preserve the city as a center of Lithuanian statehood.
There are 200 lakes in the Trakai region and the town itself is surrounded by water. Originally settled by the Grand Duke Gediminas in the early 13th century (who built the Old Trakai castle, the remains of which lie under the existing 15th century monastery), Trakai passed to Gediminas’ son, who developed the town and built two additional castles.
Today, only the Island Castle remains and is the town’s main attraction, hosting the Trakai Castle Festival and a number of cultural events throughout the year.
Practical Info
Trakai is 28km (17mi) Trakai is 28km (17mi) southwest of Vilnius.
Address: Trakai, Lithuania
From ¥ 63
Trastevere
Bohemian Trastevere is one of Rome’s most historic and picturesque neighborhoods—a maze of cobbled streets lined with atmospheric restaurants serving some of Italy’s best cuisine. At dusk, trendy crowds pour into its fashionable sidewalk cafés and bars to enjoy the vibrant Roman nightlife. Trastevere lies across the river—hence the name, which means “across the Tiber”—from the center of Rome, and at its heart is Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere, home to one of Rome’s oldest churches (from AD 340) and a majestic 15th-century fountain. Other neighborhood sights include the beautiful Santa Cecilia in Trastevere church, dating from the fifth century, and Villa Farnesina, filled with stunning frescoes—including two attributed to Raphael.
The Basics
Many of Trastevere’s narrow streets are closed to traffic, so the best way to explore this ancient Roman neighborhood is by getting off the beaten path with a guided walking tour—though Vespa scooter and Segway tours are also fun options. Trastevere is famous for its excellent cuisine, so consider taking a food tour to discover traditional Roman dishes, Italian wines, and open-air food markets. Alternatively, tour after dark to rub elbows with young Romans out for a night on the town.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trastevere’s nightlife centers around the bustling Piazza Trilussa, at the end of the Ponte Sisto.
- If you love authentic Italian food and wine, Trastevere is considered one of the best neighborhoods in Rome for meals, wine tastings, and festive ambience.
- Tours of Trastevere often include visits to the Jewish Ghetto and Campo de’ Fiori, both located just across the river.
How to Get There
Trastevere lies along the east bank of the Tiber River, south of Vatican City. To reach the neighborhood, cross the Ponte Sisto on foot, or take the 8 tram across the Ponte Garibaldi just north of Tiber Island.
When to Get There
Trastevere is delightful to explore all year round, though the neighborhood is best appreciated when the weather is mild. For a unique look into one of the most lively neighborhoods in the Eternal City, take a leisurely stroll by night. Like much of Rome, the area gets crowded in summer.
Caravaggio in Trastevere
In the early 17th century, Caravaggio was commissioned to paint “The Death of the Virgin” for the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Scala in Trastevere. The master painter’s realistic depiction of the Virgin as swollen and bare-legged was considered blasphemous, and the parish rejected his work. It now hangs in the Louvre in Paris.
Address: Rome, Province of Rome 00153, Italy
From ¥ 23
Trang An Grottoes
Open-topped rowboats captained by locals in conical hats regularly ferry passengers down the sleepy Sao Khe River to the Trang An Grottes—a series of a dozen otherworldly caverns, tunnels and caves. Boats park outside the best formations and allow visitors to clamber inside for a closer look, or float all the way through affording passing glimpses of hanging stalactites overhead.
The caves themselves are not as spectacular as some of the other Vietnamese cave systems—some say they’ve been recently altered to accommodate a surge in boat traffic due to its increasing popularity—but the surrounding scenery makes a trip to Trang An Grottoes more than worthwhile. The river meanders through electric green rice paddies, past above ground karst formations reminiscent of the water-surrounded pillars of Ha Long Bay and alongside impressive and remote temples. What’s more, the Trang An Grottoes are conveniently accessible from Hanoi making for an idyllic escape from the busy city.
Practical Info
The Trang An Grottes, part of Trang An Natural Reserve, are about 9 kilometers west of Ninh Binh and about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. A popular attraction for Vietnamese tourists, the Trang An Grottoes can be crowded at midday. If you’ll be securing a boat on your own, you’ll want to go in the morning or late afternoon—the last boat leaves around 4 p.m. Day trips from Hanoi often have arrangements with boat captains to ensure the tour goes smoothly and usually include a stop at the impressive and nearby Bai Dinh Temple.
Boat trips to the grottoes take between two and three hours. An entrance fee of 100,000VND (around $4.50) will cover a boat for up to four people and is often included in package tour prices. Note that because rowboats are open-top, it’s best to come prepared with a hat and sunscreen.
Address: Ninh Binh, Vietnam
Admission: 100,000VND (around $4.50)
From ¥ 257
Tretyakov Gallery
The Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow is known as the finest collection of Russian art in the world and is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Its history dates back to 1856, when a Moscow merchant, Pavel Mikhailovich Tretyakov, began collecting pieces from Russian artists with the hope of one day establishing a museum of national art. In 1892, he donated his collection, consisting of around 2,000 pieces, to the city of Moscow. The current gallery building opened a few years later and today it holds more than 170,000 works of art displayed throughout 62 rooms.
The gallery expertly traces the development of Russian painting from the 10th century through the end of the 19th century and features some of the most notable Russian artists, although many may be unknown outside of Russia. It also showcases the world’s best collection of Russian icons and a collection of portraits of great Russian figures such as Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy and Turgenev.
Visitors will appreciate cards throughout the gallery providing background information in English on many of the artists whose work is on display.
The gallery expertly traces the development of Russian painting from the 10th century through the end of the 19th century and features some of the most notable Russian artists, although many may be unknown outside of Russia. It also showcases the world’s best collection of Russian icons and a collection of portraits of great Russian figures such as Dostoyevsky, Tolstoy and Turgenev.
Visitors will appreciate cards throughout the gallery providing background information in English on many of the artists whose work is on display.
Practical Info
The Tretyakov Gallery is located at 10 Lavrushinsky lane and is accessible from the Tretyakovskaya, Novokuznetskaya or Polyanka Metro stations. The ticket office closes at 6:30pm. Audio-guides are available for 360 rubles. A photography permit costs an additional 200 rubles.
Address: 10, Lavrushinsky Lane, Moscow 119017, Russia
Hours: Closed: Monday
Tuesday - Sunday: 10am – 7:30pm
Admission: Adults: 450 rubles
From ¥ 68
Trench Town
The Trench Town neighborhood of Kingston is most famous as the origin of reggae legend Bob Marley, who grew up here as a kid, and continued living here as a singer and songwriter. But the low-income neighborhood is also the birthplace of reggae writ large, with many other artists originating here as well. Most visitors to Trench Town will want to visit the Trench Town Culture Yard, a public housing block called a government yard where Marley lived, wrote songs and former the Wailers.
Practical Info
Trench Town Culture Yard was designated national heritage site in 2007. On display here are Bob Marley’s bedroom, complete with his bed, first guitar and the remains of his Volkswagen van. A museum has exhibits about the history of Trench Town.
Address: Corner of Spanish Town Rd. and Collie Smith Dr., Kingston, Jamaica
From ¥ 473
Treasure Hill
Treasure Hill, one of Taipei’s oldest historical settlements, underwent a major transformation in 2010, transforming it into a living artists’ village, complete with performance spaces, galleries and shops squeezed together along the narrow alleys and stairways of the hillside community.
The settlement dates back to the 1940s when its illegally built structures served as an antiaircraft base for the military. The entire neighborhood was closed off in 2007 to allow for its restoration and preservation, and when the government reopened Treasure Hill in 2010, 22 of the original families moved back in to participate in the Treasure Hill Artists Village Program.
The settlement dates back to the 1940s when its illegally built structures served as an antiaircraft base for the military. The entire neighborhood was closed off in 2007 to allow for its restoration and preservation, and when the government reopened Treasure Hill in 2010, 22 of the original families moved back in to participate in the Treasure Hill Artists Village Program.
Practical Info
The Artists-in-Resident program provides 14 studios for three to six
month residencies for local and international artists, with the aim of
fostering community participation in the arts. Visitors are free to
wander through the village and pop into the open studios to see both
completed works and works in progress. Treasure Hill also hosts
exhibitions, workshops and other educational programs from time to time.
Transit: MRT Gongguan Station (Green line) to Gongguan Station Exit 1. Turn left to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3. Walk to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3 Ln. 230 for 5-7 minutes. Treasure Hill, Treasure Hill Artist Village.
Transit: MRT Gongguan Station (Green line) to Gongguan Station Exit 1. Turn left to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3. Walk to Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3 Ln. 230 for 5-7 minutes. Treasure Hill, Treasure Hill Artist Village.
Address: No. 2, Alley 14, Ln. 230 Dingzhou Rd. Sec. 3, Taipei, Taiwan
Hours: Tue-Sun 11:00am - 9:00pm. Exhibitions Close at 6:00pm. Operations hours of each Micro Loft Studio are different.
From ¥ 189
Trick Eye Museum
The Trick Eye Museums originated in Korea and can now be found all across Asia. The museums use art techniques to transforms 2D paintings into 3D images to create fascinating optical illusions, not to mention some great photo opportunities.
The Trick Eye Museum in Singapore features 90 artworks throughout six distinctly themed zones. These include: World of Masterpieces, Safari Kingdom, Star of Circus, Dream of Fairy Tale, Love In Winter, and Adventure Discovery. Many of the pieces have been specifically designed for the Singapore museum, featuring elements of the nation’s culture such as the Merlion – the country’s most iconic symbol.
This interactive museum allows its visitors to ‘step inside’ the art to create a visual narrative, encouraging people to use their imaginations and sense of humor as they pose and connect with the artwork.
Practical Info
The Trick Eye Museum in Singapore is located within Resorts World, Sentosa, near Universal Studios. To reach it by train, take the Sentosa Express to Waterfront Station. It is also accessible via a number of bus routes.
Address: 26 Sentosa Gateway, 098138, Singapore
Hours: Daily 10am-9pm (last admission: 8pm)
Admission: Adult: $25; Child: $20
From ¥ 127
Tree of Life
The Tree of Life is a lone mesquite tree that stands in the desert atop a sandy hill near the highest point in Bahrain. Approximately 400 years-old and standing at almost 10 meters tall, the tree has continued to grow despite the extreme temperatures and lack of any apparent water source for miles around.
The tree’s source of water is a mystery and the fact that it has thrived for so long has made it something of a mystical legend in Bahrain. The locals believe that the tree is looked after by Enki, the mythical God of water, and some believe that it is the last vestige from the Garden of Eden. Presumably, the old tree has tapped into an underground spring somewhere, a feat of nature that is impressive even without the legends and myths.
Both its age and location make the Tree of Life a true natural survivor, although the sheer volume of visitors it attracts might be its eventual downfall; spray paint and etchings are clearly visible on its old bark, and a protective circular fence now surrounds the tree in an attempt to preserve it.
The best way to see the Tree of Life is to join a short tour that also takes in other attractions in the desert, including the Sheikh Salman Bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Fort and the first ever oil well, plus the Oil Museum next to it.
Practical Info
The Tree of Life is located in the desert around a 45-minute drive from Manama. The best way to reach it is as part of an organized tour, but if driving yourself, take the Zallaq Highway heading east, which becomes the Muaskar Highway. Take a right turn by Khuff Gas Well 371 and then turn right again along the power lines. Be careful not to drive in the soft sand.
Did You Know? Since 2010, archaeologists have discovered pottery and other artifacts in the vicinity of the Tree of Life, some of which is thought to date back to the Dilmun era.
Address: Manama, Bahrain
From ¥ 724
Trafalgar Square
Trafalgar Square—the living, breathing, and beating heart of London’s West End—plays an integral part in local life as a site of celebrations, protests, performances, parades, and public gatherings. Overlooked by grand, stately buildings such as the National Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, this vast square is dotted with iconic fountains and statuary. Most famous among them is the 144-foot (44-meter) Nelson’s Column, which commemorates a British naval victory over France and Spain, and is guarded by four oversized bronze lions.
The Basics
Trafalgar Square is one of the best places to take the pulse of life in England’s capital city. While many tourists come here independently, a guide can help enlighten visitors as to the significance of the square’s many monuments and sights as well as draw attention to the splendid surrounding architecture. Trafalgar Square is commonly included on sightseeing tours of the West End and Central London, along with nearby Westminster, where you’ll find Big Ben and the United Kingdom’s Houses of Parliament. You may also encounter Trafalgar Square during guided walking tours, bus tours, and bike tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You’ll find public restrooms at the west end of the square; a small charge applies.
- Check ahead to see if an event is scheduled. Preparation for big events may result in limited access.
- The National Gallery offers free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
The nearest station to Trafalgar Square is Charing Cross, which is served by the Bakerloo and Northern Underground lines as well as by regular rail. Embankment (Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Northern lines), Piccadilly Circus (Bakerloo and Piccadilly lines), and Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines) stations are all fewer than 10 minutes’ walk away.
When to Get There
Trafalgar Square is at its liveliest in summer. Lunchtime is particularly good for people-watching as office workers decamp from their desks to eat on the steps in front of the National Gallery. In the run-up to the festive period, a giant Christmas tree—a gift from Norway to the people of Britain—is erected in the center of the square, and carolers belt out festive songs to raise money for charity.
The Fourth Plinth
Built in 1841, Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth was originally meant to host a statue of King William IV, but because of a lack of funds, it stood empty for more than a century. Until recently, that is, when the mayor of London decided to put the plinth to good use: as a showcase for contemporary artwork. In 2017 the plinth held David Shrigley’s Really Good, a 22-foot (7-meter) bronze thumbs-up.
Address: Trafalgar Square, London SW1, England
Admission: Free
From ¥ 81
Trakoscan Castle
Set against a backdrop of hillside vineyards and lush woodlands in Zagorje, just an hour north of Zagreb, Trakošćan Castle is Croatia's best preserved and most-visited medieval castle, making it a popular day trip from the capital. The grand Gothic fortress dates back to the 13th century, but much of its current appearance is owed to mid-19th century restorations. Sculpted from yellow stone, the castle's white-trimmed crenelations, dramatic drawbridge and red-roofed towers add a fairy tale element, while the breathtaking 215-acre grounds feature a romantic landscape of English-style gardens and pretty walkways set around a tree-lined lake.
Owned by the Drašković family until 1944, the castle is now the property of the state, reopening in 1950 as a museum and fast becoming one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Impeccably restored with period-style decor, the castle's three floors display a mix of neo-Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque designs, featuring many original furnishings and artworks amassed by the Draškovićs over the years. Other highlights include the castle's eerie underground dungeons, a vast collection of 15th- to 19th-century firearms and weaponry, and painter Julijana Erdödy's study.
Owned by the Drašković family until 1944, the castle is now the property of the state, reopening in 1950 as a museum and fast becoming one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Impeccably restored with period-style decor, the castle's three floors display a mix of neo-Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque designs, featuring many original furnishings and artworks amassed by the Draškovićs over the years. Other highlights include the castle's eerie underground dungeons, a vast collection of 15th- to 19th-century firearms and weaponry, and painter Julijana Erdödy's study.
Address: Trakošćan, Croatia
From ¥ 496
Treasury Building
As seen on the back of the United States’ ten dollar bill, the Treasury Building is a National Historic Landmark and home of the United States Department of the Treasury. Its construction began in 1836, designed by the same architect who planned the Washington Monument. With five stories of height, the structure is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. Statues of significant historic figures — including Alexander Hamilton, who was the first Secretary of the Treasury — surround the exterior.
The East Colonnade features 30 columns carved from the same single piece of granite, standing at 36 feet tall. Additions were then made to the original wings, and after 33 years of construction was completed. Upon its opening it became one of the largest office buildings in the world. The Treasury Building is one of the United States’ oldest monuments and is said to have influenced the style of the monuments that came after it.
Practical Info
The Treasury Building can be found at Fifteenth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C., not far from The White House. It is open for guided tours on Saturdays, but reservations must be made well in advance.
Address: Fifteenth Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington DC, USA
From ¥ 331