DeenaDiaries
Photos and Videos captured by: Deena Jarwan
with historic monuments, ancient museum artworks, beautiful landscapes, and serene scenery, vicariously live through the imagery captured by Deena. While you read through DeenaDiaries remember that every entry read is a page in the story of Deena’s travels.
Opéra Garnier,
Paris, France
Palais Garnier, a Symphony of Opulence, stands as a resplendent testament to the grandeur of nineteenth century French architecture and opera. An emblem of Parisian elegance and artistic ambition. One of the most, if not the most, incredible places to visit in Paris. A jewel in the crown of Parisian landmarks. This immaculate architectural marvel is as entrancing as the opera performances. The richness of the elaborate ornamentation including the majestic marble columns, gilded embellishments, crystal chandeliers, and intricate engravings shift the atmosphere dramatically. The grand foyer exudes an opulent ambiance, creating an atmosphere of regal sophistication. The grand staircase in the lavish foyer evokes an almost mythical aura. The ambiance is further enhanced by the soft lighting and the rich gold and red hues.
Palais Garnier reflects an era where architecture and art converge in one singular space. It has been the stage for countless iconic performances, hosting some of the greatest ballets and operas. Not only does it play its role as a venue, but it’s symbolizes Paris’s enduring commitment to the arts and culture. This masterpiece stands as a timeless embodiment of Parisian elegance and artistic excellence that provides an unparalleled experience. Certainly, nothing comes close to the perfection of this profound building and its enriching contents.
Eminönü,
Istanbul, Türkiye
Istanbul’s, Basilica Cistern which is located underneath the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Galata Tower are phenomenal examples of stunning architecture. The enormous domes, lavish mosaics, and highly detailed minarets are characteristics of prime Ottoman-era architectural structures. The Hagia Sophia specifically, is so unique that other Architects and Artists from the Byzantine Empire could not emulate the building and would not even try to do so.
The big, beautiful, and blue, Bosphorus Strait is a short walk from all of the structures listed above. You will be able to witness the integration of nature and history at once.
Baghdad, Iraq
The Home of the Tigris and Euphrates River. Known as the “Cradle of Civilization” because it established the first civilization, Mesopotamia. Cuneiform, the first form of writing came about from this region. The Code of Hammurabi, the first known set of established laws, originated from Babylon which is present-day Iraq.
The history of this country has been mistakenly lost in translation. A country and culture rich with history, responsible for setting up society, discipline, laws, and language is sadly forgotten.
A once alluring and powerful country is now only known for its downfall.
A war-torn country, although destroyed, still possesses its own beauty.
1001 Arabian Nights, a Middle Eastern folktale, was brought to life in Baghdad. What was known as the former palace of Saddam Hussien, the Adhamiya Palace, has now been converted into an upscale outdoor shopping center with beautiful cafes. You will be able to witness the stunning scenery including the Arabic calligraphy that lays on the perimeter of certain buildings.
London, England
One of the World’s greatest cities and not just because it’s home to the British accent and football.
A metropolis known for its cultural legacy, political influence, and industrialization has reigned supreme as a global power for centuries.
A rich tapestry of historical landmarks such as the Big Ben Clock Tower, Westminister Abbey, London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and more. They each offer deep historical insight and underscore London’s historical lineage. A city that offers a profoundly stimulating experience with high cultural vibrancy and intellectual institutions.
Bodrum, Türkiye
A stone city that sits on the southwest coast of Turkey and the Aegean Sea, Known to have ties to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, The Mausoleum at Halicarnassus.
A region recognized for its incredible appeal and magnetism. People from all over the world visit Bodrum for a relaxing, peaceful, and proper holiday.
The clear turquoise waters, the clean sand beaches, the vibrant street stores, the remarkable pastry shops, and the polite and welcoming staff are just a few of the reasons to visit.
Many people enjoy the nightlife that Bodrum has to offer. Everything is located within walking distance and is safe for travelers.
As mentioned previously, Bodrum is located on the Aegean Sea, which conveniently enough Greek Islands sit across from. For those who enjoy additional travel, there is a port that offers one-hour ferry rides between Bodrum and the Greek Islands. Spend the day in Greece and the night in Turkey!
If you do choose to vacation in Bodrum, you will find a lady that is standing by a cart selling items that resemble beads. If you are curious, pick a string of waterproof beads, pearls, or whatever may be of interest to you, and have her braid it into your hair. It will stay in your hair until you decide to take it out. Not only is it the best summer accessory, but a souvenir for when you return home.
Milan, Italy
A pivotal hub for architecture, art, and fashion. Milan is known for its exquisite shopping and excellent runway shows. It is home to Italy’s oldest shopping center, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Adjacent to the Galleria is the Duomo di Milan, an exceptional building that acts as a Cathedral and a Gothic architectural piece. It is commonly known that Leonardo da Vinci’s famous work, the Last Supper, is housed in Milan. It must be visited as it is one of the most critical pieces, arguably so, in the Renaissance Art era.
While this city offers a deftly balance between its storied past and its dynamic present, one must take advantage of its geographical location and venture outside of the city. Many other popular Italian cities are extremely accessible to frequent from Milan. Some visit Lake Como, Portofino, Venice, Verona, and many more towns'; others, such as Formula One fans, visit Monza, which holds a Formula 1 Circuit, and Maranello, which is the home of Scuderia Ferrari and another F1 Circuit.
Duomo di Milano, also known as the Milan Cathedral, is known for its contrasting, but ornate, style in architecture. It was uncommon for a building, more specifically a religious structure, to represent both- Gothic and Romanticism eras.
The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is the oldest shopping center in the world. A significant landmark in Milan, not only for its shops, but for its beauty.
Inside the Duomo di Milano sits a historical museum. It is known for holding a vast collection of intricate statues, the highest record in existence.
L’orangerie du Château de Versailles, Versailles, France
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