Castle Bojnice - The Most Beautiful Castle in Slovakia

I have always been fascinated by old architecture and the past. One of my passions is visiting old castles, ruins and forgotten cities.

Castle Bojnice

There is something very powerful and exciting about entering through the gates of an old castle. They are so magnificent and just to imagine the stories they are trying to tell.

I like to walk through old castles and chateau and pretend that I lived in the old world of kings, queens and knights in Shining armour. There is something romantic and mysterious about it.

I was born in Slovakia a small country in size, but country with the most castles, chateau and mansion houses in all of Europe. There is some 425 mansion houses, 180 castles and chateau including some ruins.

Thanks to my parents who love the culture as much as I do I had the pleasure to visit almost all of them.

The castles in Slovakia stand as testament to the colonization that happened in the country during the centuries.

One of the most popular and my personal favorite Slovakia's castles is Castle Bojnice.

Castle Bojnice was build around year 1113 on a hill above town Bojnice. Presently it is next door to the Zoo and world famous Spa.
Bojnice castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Slovakia, standing on a travertine hill above the town.

The first written mention of the castle existence is from 1113 and comes from the Zobor Abbey. It used to be a wooden fortress that was rebuild into a stone castle during the 13th century. Originally renaissance and Gothic style, has been rebuilt in Romanism style in 19th century.

At the end of the 13th century Bojnice was seized by the magnate Matus Cak Trenciansky and the castle Bojnice remained in his possession until year 1321.

During the 14th and 15th centuries the castle changed owners few times.

In 1489 King Matej Korvin gave the castle and its surroundings as a present to his illegitimate son Jan Korvin.

The story has it that King Matej often visiting Bojnice and he enjoyed sitting under the Lime tree opposite the castle's entrance, which was named the King Matej Lime tree. He would dictate official documents in its shade, which would begin : ' Sub nostris dilectis tillis Bojniciensibus' - Under Our Nice Bojnice Lime Tree".

The Famous Lime Tree

After the death of King Matej the castle Bojnice was seized by the Zapolsky troops, who inhabited it till 1526. During this time the large walls and towers were build which were preserved till this day.

In 1527 King Ferdinand I. presented the fortress to Alexej Thurzo. The Thurzos renovated the fortress and transformed it into a renaissance castle. The original Gothic fortress was given high living quarters arranged around the internal courtyard.

After the Thurzo family died out, the fortress once more fell to the crown and Emperor Ferdinand III. sold it to Pavol Palfi in 1643 for 200 000 in gold.
The castle was being rebuild again. This time it received baroque resemblance.

After a long period of stagnation and deterioration castle Bojnice together with its surroundings were obtained by its last owner Count Jan Frantisek Palfi in 1852 a renowned private collector.

The extensive renovations from 1889 to 1910 completely changed the onetime mighty fortress into an enchanting castle. Count Palfi did not live to see its completion as he died in Vienna on the 2nd of June 1908.

In 1950 the castle was open to the public and ran by Nitrianske County Museum. In 1970 the castle was declared as a National cultural monument.

I visited castle Bojnice several times as a child and as an adult. Every time I entered through the gates I was transported in a different era full enchantment and magic.

I enjoyed the priceless art collection, beautifully decorated rooms, stories about the colorful history, the underground cave and the beautiful gardens.

If you ever find yourself traveling through Slovakia castle Bojnice should be on yours Must Do list. The castle is open daily to the public.

The best time to visit this beautiful castle is in a Spring or Summer so you can enjoy the gardens as well as the castle. Stroll through the gardens, sit under the famous Lime tree and dream.

Don't forget to check out the natural underground travertine cave that is located under the castle.

I am planning on going back in Summer 2010 with my children and share with them my past and my passion.

Our Adventure At The Rock Creek Country Fair

Few weekends ago we decided to visit 64th annual Rock Creek Country Fair.

Rock Creek is a very little town located in beautiful Kettle River Valley. It is about 45 minute drive from our house and last time we went to the Fair was 7 years ago. It was time to check it out again.

Since we couldn't go for our annual September Family Vacation due to non-existent funds this year we decided to become tourists in our town.

Rock Creek Fair it's also called the Biggest Little Country Fair Around. There is so much to do and so much to see.

I personally am not a big country fair goer, but promise me Whale Tail/Beaver Tail/Elephant Ear or whatever they're called in your neck of the woods I'll be there.
Just the thought of the yummy, greasy, cinnamon-sugar goodness makes me slobber like a Pavlov's dog.

Anyway, the first thing we did after finding a parking spot we went for the famous country fair food (it was lunchtime). My kids and hubby chose Beef&Been burritos. Of course I had to be different and I went for the fully loaded German Schnitzel. What a dissapointment. It was to a point that I almost swore of schnitzels for life (I love,love,love schnitzels).

Lunch was over and next stop was the barn.

(To understand what happened next I must tell you that we live on the outskirts of little town with lots of fields with live stock around us.)

We walk to the barn, cows and bulls everywhere. My 7 year old looks around and very loudly proclaims: "So, this is what a cow looks like, interesting". I stopped, turned around and realized that he's being serious. You never know what comes out of that kid's mouth, seriously.

Next stop, chickens and turkeys. My kids spent half an hour looking at them. You would think I never let them out of the house. At this point my allergies were killing me. Time to move on - "....but mom we didn't see the pigs yet".

We walk by the 4-H cattle competition. See all the 4-H kids in their matching Beef Club shirt.My older one decides that maybe I should get him a domestic animal that he can take care of and compete with. Seriously...I think I should not let my kids out of the house again.

Time to view the pavilions full of displays with prize winning vegetables, fruit, cookies, breads, flowers, pies, pickles, canning, home made clothes and the list goes on. It was interesting. I just wish there wasn't so much of it cramped into small space with tons of people walking by.

My sons suggested that I should enter my cakes next year and I would win the best decorated for sure (bless, their little hearts).

After the displays I wanted to check out the market. Suddenly I stopped and right in front of me...am I dreaming...somebody pinch...yes, it is true...WHALE TAILS. The world stopped for a minute right then and there till I had the yummy, greasy, cinnamon sugar goodness in my hand.

I can enjoy the fair now.My boys found a booth with Hawaiian shaved ice and to add to their excitment they had some sugar-free flavors.To tell the truth I was actually excited for my son. Not often when we go out they offer sugar free treats never mind at country fairs.

My boys and hubby spotted a huge display section full of big tractors, loaders and heavy equipment.Of course we had to stop to check them out one by one, sit in it, pose in front of it and ask questions about it (no, we are not in a market for a new heavy equipment). "Mommy, mommy come and sit in it, isn't it awesome, we should get one". "Take a picture, take a picture".

I must admit I loved the golf carts. I could go for one of them.

Our day was coming to an end, but before we go another Whale Tail was a must.

All I have to say: "I hope next September we will have enough funds in the piggy
bank to go for our usual family vacation".

Historic Old Sacramento Offers Fun and Educational Family Vacation .

When we decided to visit Sacramento we didn’t have any idea that we are entering into the 1800s. We found ourselves right in the middle of the Gold Rush Days - an annual celebration.


The streets of the old Sacramento were transformed into the Wild West. The streets were covered with dirt. Bails of hay placed on the corners of the streets. Horses and horse drawn carriages were the only means of transportation.


If you are planning a fun and educational family vacation you must visit Old Sacramento during the Gold Rush Days.


You will feel like you are back in 1800s. Streets are filled with cowboys, ladies in fancy dresses with big, beautiful hats. You will witness Wild West gunfights, enjoy some Gold Rush era music and dancing.
Sample some interesting food.


The never-ending fun and festivities start Labor Day Weekend Friday and last for 4 days.


If you miss it the Old Sacramento has it’s charm even without the Gold Rush Days. The Old Sacramento is a National Historic Landmark District and all of the 53 historic buildings were build in 1800s when the pioneers settled along the Sacramento River. The wooden sidewalks and little old- fashioned shops add to it’s charm.


My favorite part are the Mississippi - style riverboats down on the Sacramento River. That is what brought us down to Sacramento in a first place just to discover lots of history and unforgettable vacation.


If you want to make your stay in Old Sacramento even more historic or very romantic stay at the historic Delta King - 1920s completely restored paddle wheeler. The Delta King offers first class accommodation, restaurant, lounge and even a theatre. You will be blown away with all the little details.


The rooms are full of character. You can choose from cozy staterooms or large staterooms depends on your budget and the view choice. The Delta King has 5 decks so I recommend you request a room on the 4th or
5th deck for the best view.


The Delta King’s own Pilothouse restaurant offers a fine dining with an unbelievable view. You must try their Dungeness Crab Cakes or Risotto. Their Sunday Brunch is one of the best I ever tasted.


While visiting Old Sacramento take an advantage of many river cruises. Explore the Sacramento River on board of the Spirit of Sacramento - another beautiful Victorian paddle wheeler. You will find it right beside the Delta King.


Explore the little shops, taste some homemade fudge and hand-dipped chocolate at the Sacramento Sweets Co.. Stop by Evangeline’s for some unusual gifts and toys (Evangeline’s is a prankster’s paradise).


We spend only couple of days on board of the Delta King in Old Sacramento, but we had family vacation to remember. Can’t wait to go back. This time maybe for a romantic get-away.

Top 10 Las Vegas Family Shows That Won't Break Your Budget

Every year many people visit Las Vegas just to experience the first class entertainment. Vegas offers top headliners and quality ongoing shows.

Most of the shows are geared toward the adult crowd. If you are visiting Las Vegas with your children you don't have to worry that you will miss out on anything or that you won't able afford it.

That is why Las Vegas is so great. Amongst all the high priced adult shows you will find reasonable priced high quality shows that are family friendly.

My family helped me to create our top 10 family shows in Vegas and we hope you will enjoy them as much as we did.


#1 V - THE ULTIMATE VARIETY SHOW at the Planet Hollywood

Wonderful show that offers magic, comedy, balance acts, juggling, acrobatics and more. Wally Eastwood is hilarious and very charming host that will have you laughing aloud. This shows gets the best family show on the Strip award from my family.

Two shows nightly and tickets start at $65.99 (we used our 2 for 1 coupon from the Entertainment Book).


#2 GREGORY POPOVICH’S COMEDY PET THEATER at the Planet Hollywood

One of the furriest afternoon shows on the Strip. Trained Russian circus performer Gregory Popovich and his family will introduce you to their little army of well trained and funny dogs and cats. It this very cute and children absolutely love it.

Every day except Wednesdays. Child ticket is only $16.49 and adult ticket is $38.49


#3 NATHAN BURTON COMEDY MAGIC at the Flamingo

Spend an afternoon with magic and music. Nathan Burton knows how to entertain his audience. You will be impressed with his magic tricks combined with performance from his beautiful showgirls. Amongst his cool props you’ll find the biggest hair dryer you ever saw.

Every day except Monday and Thrusday. Child ticket is $21.57 and adult ticket is $38.57


#4 THE TOURNAMENT OF KINGS at the Excalibur

Enjoy a great show while feasting on a dinner fit for a king Arthur. Become part of the show as you cheering for your knight and boo the competision. And who doesn't love to eat their dinner with their bare hands? I know my kids do.

Every night except Tuesday. Kids under 3 are free if sitting on parent lap. Dinner & Show tickets are $61.21


#5 FAB FOUR LIVE at the Planet Hollywood


Take you children to meet the Beatles or at least introduce them to their music. The impersonators are pretty close to the real thing. Great show and the tribute to John Lennon guarantees to make you shed a tear or two (even my 12 year old cried).

Every day except Thursday. General admission is $54.99 and children under 5 are not allowed.

Tip:We saw the V-Variety Show first and after the show we were offered discount tickets to the Fab Four. It was almost half price.


#6 SHOW BUS OF THE STARS at the Planet Hollywood

Get on the double-decker bus and let celebrity impersonators to be your guide while you explore Las Vegas Strip. The impersonators change so you won’t know who will be your guide. It could be Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe or perhaps Madonna? You have to go to find out.

You can catch the bus every day. Tickets start @ $39.95


#7 LANCE BURTON at the Monte Carlo

Classic magic show. Lance Burton is an honorary member of The Royal Dynasty of Magic and he’s been amazing audience in Vegas since 1981. Your child might be given the opportunity to come up on the stage and be a part of the magic show. Very family friendly and classy show.

Ongoing Tuesday through Saturday. Tickets start at $66.50. Children under 3 are not allowed.


#8 ICE: DIRECT FROM RUSSIA at the Riviera

Outstanding ice show. The heart-stopping acrobatics and gymnastics combined with beautiful music and unique costumes. Colors, movements, music. Everything and more you want in an ice skating show.

Every day except Friday. Tickets start at $89.95. Children under 6 are not allowed.


#9 MYSTERE CIRQUE DU SOLEIL at the Treasure Island

You must see the Cirque Du Soleil at least once while you're in Vegas and this is a good place to start. Mystere is the most affordable Cirque Du Soleil performance in Las Vegas and absolutely perfect for any age. Acrobats, clown, high energy, beautiful costumes, music. It all comes together as one unforgettable show.

Ongoing Saturday through Wednesday. Tickets start at $90.40


#10 XTREME MAGIC STARRING DIRK ARTHUR at the Tropicana

Another great family afternoon show. This magic show is full of large scale illusions that will amaze and entertain you. The part of the show are Dirk Arthur's 3 large cats: TJ the white tiger, Oscar the spotted leopard and Diamond the black leopard.

Ongoing Saturday through Thursday. General admission is $25.00 (some hotels and magazines offer free or 2 for1 tickets to this show).