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touristicplaces · 4 years

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12 Most Beautiful Medieval Towns of Europe

When planning a vacation to Europe, some of the first destinations that come to mind will be the teeming cities of Paris, London,

or Rome.

Each of these metropolises is incredible, but they are far from all that Europe has to offer.

By exploring some of the small towns across the continent, it is possible to see a more authentic, traditional side to Europe.

Here’s a look at the most beautiful medieval towns of Europe:

1-Girona.

This elegant, provincial capital features a beautiful walled medieval quarter, with narrow cobbled alleyways, balconied houses, and shady little squares.

Clinging to the banks of the river Onyar, as it meanders through the center of town, is a long row of picturesque pastel-hued houses.

The Roman wall built in the first century BC was rebuilt in the mid-1300s on the foundation of the original structure.

Visitors can still climb the old towers.

The Cathedral and the 14th-century Gothic church also provide historical interest as does the old Jewish Quarter.

2-Mostar.

Mostar, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is famous for its Old Bridge over the Neretva River; the name Mostar derives from the monster, meaning ‘bridge keeper.’ The bridge was built in 1556 under the orders of the occupying Ottomans but was destroyed 427 years later in 1993 by Croatian forces during the Balkan Wars.

Though it’s easily reachable on a day trip from neighboring Croatia, to get the most out of your visit to Mostar, the best thing to do is stay overnight.

The crowds of daytrippers trickle away, and the restaurants high above the river along cobbled streets light up.

3-Delft.

A popular day trip destination from Amsterdam, it is easy to see what makes Delft such an attractive option.

With its lovely medieval center and picturesque canals crossed by brick bridges and lined with trees, the city is quaint and peaceful.

Its most famous son, the painter Johannes Vermeer, is just one of many who has sung its praises over the ages.

Famous for the distinctive blue and white tiles and ceramics that are produced here, visiting Delftware factories is popular among tourists.

But, despite its wealth of beautiful old buildings, it is the atmosphere rather than any particular the attraction that makes it worth visiting.

4-Brasov.

With the Carpathian Mountains hemming it in on all sides, Brasov’s beautiful setting is complemented perfectly by its charming medieval center. It is not without reason that this is one of the most popular destinations in Romania.

Wandering around the fairytale-Esque Old Town is a lovely way to spend the day, as you pass fabulous baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and medieval watchtowers.

The main square has loads of cafes and restaurants if you simply want to grab a coffee and watch the world go by.

5-Assisi.

A trip from Rome to the lovely hill region of Umbria will bring you to the medieval town of Assisi where you can explore significant religious sites, Roman ruins, and artistic beauty.

The town’s main attraction is the Basilica of St. Francis, the eternal resting place of Italy’s patron saint.

Most of the cobblestone streets in town lead to this beautiful cathedral where you can admire its exquisite architecture and interior ceilings that are embellished with stunning frescoes.

Surrounding the basilica, you will discover medieval houses and shops that are well worth a look.

6-Bern.

Bern is a picturesque medieval city with a history that dates back to the 12th century, though it did not become a part of the Swiss Confederacy until the 16th century.

Its most famous attraction is an ancient clock tower with moving puppets, that once served as the western gate of the city.

Other popular sites in Bern include the Munster, a Gothic cathedral that rises from the old town, and its town hall.

The bear is the symbol of Bern, with several being kept in an open-air pit.

Shoppers will appreciate the old town that boasts four miles of arcades, making it one of the longest covered shopping areas in Europe.

7-Eze.

Èze is a fortified medieval village that sits 1400 feet above sea level, overlooking the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.

With its lovely villas covered in bougainvillea and cobblestone streets, Eze is a charming and a very photogenic town.

Getting to the top of the village with its narrow cobblestone streets is a bit of a climb, but well worth the effort.

When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with a pretty cactus garden and stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Take time to visit the old church with its Egyptian cross, said to be a reminder of the Phoenician temple that once stood there.

8-Tallinn.

The capital of Estonia, Tallinn entices.

With its 14-century old town, built as a defense system, when you walk through the impressive medieval Viru Gates, you can feel the history right away.

Parts of Tallinn’s city wall are still walkable, complete with windows where you can glimpse the charming city below.

There are also historic churches such as Saint Olaf’s Church, dating back to the 1200s.

Tallinn has a hipster side too, which can be found at a reclaimed factory area where former warehouses now contain trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.

9-Heidelberg.

With historic treasures like the medieval Old Bridge, the Heidelberg Castle, the Church of the Holy Spirit and the Knight St. George House, it is no wonder that Heidelberg is a popular tourist attraction.

The city center’s main street is packed with pubs, restaurants, museums, art galleries, shops and markets selling the likes of beer steins, cuckoo clocks, and German sausages.

Home to Germany’s oldest university, Heidelberg’s long academic history can be retraced along the Philosopher’s Walk, a scenic footpath often walked by many earlier philosophers and professors.

10-Cesky Krumlov.

In the South Bohemia region in the Czech Republic lies Cesky Krumlov.

This historic city is a supremely picturesque place to visit; think orange-tiled rooftops and the pretty riverside of the Vltava River, all flanked by green, rolling hills.

Made up of Renaissance and Baroque architecture, the town is overlooked by an impressive 13th-century castle.

It’s a town that should not be missed because of its sheer charm and beauty. Come in summer and stay till the sun goes down to watch the energetic city come alive with bars and restaurants.

11-Rovinj.

On the west coast of the Istrian peninsula juts Rovinj into the Adriatic Sea.

More than 15,000 residents cram into this tiny town wedged into the edge of the peninsula.

Unlike many other ancient Croatian cities, Rovinj has no fortified walls; the outer ring houses feature front doors that open right up to the sea. A popular tourist destination, the old town is sprinkled with four-star hotels and restaurants where you’ll find great seafood.

Rovinj is still an authentic fishing port.

Take a boat trip to the nearby Rovinj archipelago to escape the crowds for a day.

12-York.

The city of York is a truly ancient destination, and it boasts an impressive collection of architectural remains that date to Roman, medieval, and even Viking times.

Plenty of exciting sights compete for visitors’ attention as they stroll along the city’s cobblestone streets.

One of the city’s landmarks is York Minster.

This commanding stone cathedral is filled with remarkable works of art. The medieval Clifford’s Tower, which was built by William the Conqueror and rebuilt by Henry III in the 13th century, is a great vantage point for panoramic views around the city.

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lindarifenews · 4 years

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How to Host a Successful Virtual Event: Tips and Best Practices

Virtual events still sound a little futuristic, but they’ve been happening since 1993 when the world’s first livestream brought us nail-biting webcam footage of a coffee maker in mid drip. The streaming pot brewed up millions of views.

In some ways little has changed in 2020. On TikTok, teenagers have gone viral with sleep feeds, raking in crypto coin as they catch some zzz’s. But tech and social media upgrades have opened the door to new ways to connect online, from virtual museum tours to live Q&As with astronauts in space.

Even some of the largest conferences have gone partially or completely digital. Moving events like this online can reduce costs and carbon footprints, and make attendance accessible to a wider audience. In 2018, Coachella’s YouTube livestream brought Beyoncé’s Homecoming to more than 41 million people in more than 232 countries, rather than just the hundreds of thousands in attendance in person.

From live-tweeting to livestreaming, businesses and organizations are staging virtual events across the web. So, is your company ready to get digital?

Whether you have an event already in mind or you’re looking for ideas, this article is your all-access pass.

What is a virtual event?

A virtual event is any organized meet-up that takes place online rather than in a physical location. These events can range from small question-and-answer sessions to large-scale conferences with thousands of attendees. Even a livestreamed feed of a solo cup pyramid can be a virtual event, apparently.

Here’s a rundown of the different kinds of online business events your company can host.

How-to’s, tutorials, and classes

Have a product or service that needs some explaining? A how-to or tutorial is a good way to provide tips, tricks, and instructions.

This type of event can be used to launch a new product, answer frequently-asked questions, or reveal different use cases. Kick things up a notch with a full-on class. For instance, yoga instructors or chefs can share exercise and cooking classes online.

Training and courses

For more complex topics, webinars, workshops, and courses might be a better fit. This format can offer deep dives around specific themes, skill sets, tools, and more. For example, some of Hootsuite’s webinars include Best Practices for Using Search and Social Advertising Together and How to Build an Audience Driven Social Marketing Plan.

Behind-the-scenes tours

Give your followers a peek behind-the-scenes. Places like museums, galleries, theatres, airports, and even national parks, can offer viewers glimpses at what it’s like to visit. Or what it’s like to work somewhere.

Your business doesn’t have to be an attraction to make it happen. Tour your lab, factory, office, workshop, tradeshow or test kitchen. Show your customers how the “sausage” gets made.

Interviews and performances

Tap your in-house experts to share their knowledge in a live question-and-answer session. Host a laidback Ask Me Anything (AMA) on social media. Or invite speakers or artists to give a talk or performance.

Everything from TED-style talks to stand-up comedy shows or intimate interviews is fair game. Interactive trivia games and contests can also keep things engaging.

Conferences and shows

Even large-scale events can have a virtual component. From Coachella to SXSW, live concerts and summits have been streamed online so that people who can’t attend in person can still get in on the action. But there are also many conferences that take place entirely online, with networking and meetings integrated, too.

How to host a virtual event (and tools that can help)

There are a variety of ways to host a virtual event. Here’s a round-up of the different formats along with some of the best virtual events platforms you can use.

Live tweeting

Start an online discussion by live tweeting an event, asking a question, or hosting an Ask Me Anything. Use a hashtag to help people find and follow the conversation.

Other online discussion tools include:

Discord: Free voice and text chat mostly used by gamers.

Reddit: A discussion forum popular for AMAs.

Slack: An instant-messaging platform good for organizing chats.

Social Stories

Stories are a great platform to share videos and visuals of tutorials, interviews, and more. Add filters, special effects, and stickers to take questions, conduct polls, host an influencer takeover, and more. On Instagram, you can add them to a highlight for future viewers.

The ephemeral approach to live events works with:

Instagram Stories

Facebook Stories

TikTok

Snapchat

Webinars

A typical webinar is an online presentation held in real-time. But they can be shared and viewed afterwards as well. Most of the time, a presenter will share their screen to go through slides or demos, while narrating. Participants can ask questions by voice or through a chat feed if the platform and presenter allows.

It’s like a one-off workshop or class that happens in real-time.

Webinar platform options include:

6connex: Available on any browser or device, with no download required. Features include flexible registration, social media integration, and real-time analytics.

Crowdcast: Can be joined through a single URL. Tools include built-in registration forms, analytics, replays, and more.

Demio: Allows for pre-recorded or live webinars—or a mix of both. Includes private chat, interactive polls, call-to-action buttons, and other features.

Livestorm: On-demand webinars from Livestorm include integrations with Google Analytics, Slack, and various engagement tools.

WebinarNinja: No need to download software for this platform, which offers paid and free events, 1,000+ app integrations, and even Facebook Pixel ad tracking.

Zoom: Can have one host, group chat—and even offers breakout rooms. Plans cover from 100 to 10,000 view-only attendees.

YouTube Livestream: A free and easy option for streaming live webinars.

Right now there’s an alcohol company trying to figure out how they can sponsor all these @zoom_us happy hours

— Matthew Kobach (but mostly staying home) (@mkobach) March 21, 2020

Social livestreams

Just about every social media platform has a live video feature. Livestreams are known for driving engagement. According to Facebook, live video averages six times more engagement than regular video.

Social livestream platforms include:

Instagram Live

Facebook Live

LinkedIn Live

TikTok

Twitter Live

YouTube Livestream

Most livestreams show comments and attendees in real time. And some, like Instagram, make it possible for you to go live with a friend—a good option for a Q&A or co-presentation.

Expect Facebook to roll out live selling features soon, too.

Conferences and networking

For more formal virtual events, there are platforms that offer suites of tools that include livestreaming, chatrooms, and more.

6connex: Exhibitors can create virtual booths, compete for leaderboard positions, livestream, and chat with this virtual trade show platform.

AirMeet

Brella: Speakers, multitrack agendas, sponsors, individual streams, and more are taken care of with this hub for virtual conferences.

HeySummit: Build a landing page, onboard speakers, register attendees, and more. Note that this solution helps package virtual events, but you’ll need to integrate with tools for livestreaming.

Hop In: This all-in-one live events platform covers everything from networking events, meetings, trade shows, webinars, live broadcasts, and more.

Run the World: Everything from cocktail parties to fireside chats are an option with this remote conference platform. Built-in templates are available for different use-cases to minimize event-planning hassles.

Vfairs: A virtual expo platform with everything from booths to webinar and conversations starter tools.

Tips for hosting virtual events

All events come with logistical challenges. Here’s how to avoid hiccups during your virtual event.

1. Create a game plan

Whether big or small, offline or online, every event should have a strategy. Start with a key goal and concept, then take it from there. The earlier you can get planning, the better.

Before hosting a virtual event, answer the following questions:

What kind of experience do you hope to deliver?

Will the event be live, on-demand, or both?

Where do I want the content to be seen?

Will access be gated or free?

When is the best time for the event?

Will you require event registration?

How will you promote the event?

Do you plan to work with an advertiser or other partner?

Will people still have access to the event once it’s over?

What KPIs and data do you plan to track?

2. Choose the right time

Picking the right date and time for your event is important, regardless of size or platform. Before sending out “save the dates” to your network, do a little research. Make sure there are no competing events or holidays that would interfere with attendance.

Take time zones into consideration, too. If you plan to go global, try your best to pick a time that works for as many of your customers and followers as possible. If that doesn’t seem possible, make sure content is accessible after live presentations for those who couldn’t make it. It may also be worthwhile to plan multiple networking sessions and different virtual events for different time zones.

Check analytics to see when your community is typically online. And for a firmer consensus, consider sending out or posting a poll for preferred dates. Emily Schuman, founder of Cupcakes and Cashmere, used an Instagram Story sticker to set the time for an Instagram live session.

By the way, these are the best times to post on social media.

3. Promote the event

“Build it and they will come” may be a fallacy, but “promote it and they will come,” isn’t. Especially when you offer a good incentive.

Determine the key selling points your event has to offer attendees. It could be a noteworthy speaker, skill sharing, an opportunity to network, and more.

Whatever you choose, make sure the value proposition is clear in your marketing.

Share the event details by email and on social media. If you plan to run ads, target them strategically and choose the right format. For example, LinkedIn’s InMail ads may be a better way to extend invitations than impersonal sponsored posts.

According to Adobe, registrations tend to spike two-to-three weeks before an event. So it’s a good idea to ramp up around this time.

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Are you joining us as we define the future of creative leadership? Get your tickets today ☝????☝????☝️#3PercentConference

A post shared by The 3% Movement (@3percentconf) on Nov 4, 2019 at 11:00am PST

Take advantage of the social media tools available. Create an event countdown in Instagram Stories. Create a Facebook event with all the necessary information. Consider listing your event on sites like Eventbrite and in other places your audience will come across them.

Speakers often double as influencers—so provide them with the details they need to become event ambassadors. Always include who, what, where, and how. That means no virtual event marketing should be without a link. Whether it’s a link to registration form or your Instagram profile, show people where they need to go.

Don’t forget to share an event hashtag. This will help people promote the event and drive conversations online.

Check out our complete guide to social media event promotion.

4. Prepare for tech troubles

If physical events have hitches, virtual events have glitches.

Before kicking things off, test your Internet connection—and have your speakers do the same. Prepare backups of visuals and presentations in case a file goes wonky or awol. If possible, run a rehearsal. The sooner you identify problems, the sooner you can identify solutions.

Remember that not all of your guests are tech savvy. Anticipate the troubles people may have by preparing easy to follow guides or FAQs. If you have the resources to provide support, even better. Make sure it’s easy to find where and how to ask for help.

5. Make it inclusive

Just like in-person events, virtual events should be as inclusive and accessible as possible.

Make sure clear language, large fonts, and high colour contrast is used at all touch points—including presentations. Provide captions and visuals where possible for audio, and provide descriptions where possible for visuals. Sites like Vfairs also include page narrations and allow text character sizes to be adjusted.

And this probably goes without saying by now, but if your event includes a panel of experts, try to avoid choosing exclusively cis white males. Unless you want your event to trend for the wrong reasons, make sure your virtual event showcases a diverse range of voices.

Learn more about inclusive design for social media.

6. Encourage engagement

It’s simple: If you create opportunities for engagement, your audience will be more engaged. Why? It’s fun to see the outcomes of your engagement.

Here’s a simple example: Ask viewers to submit questions in comments or through a chat tool. Chances are the people who ask questions are going to stick around to see if they get answered. Pro tip: If you do this, make sure to have a moderator assigned to the task of fielding questions.

Virtually every online platform has interactive features. Ask people to participate in polls or quizzes. Encourage live tweeting. Take requests and suggestions. Or simply shoutout names as people tune in. And at the end of the event, ask for feedback.

Examples of virtual events hosted by businesses

Here are some examples of virtual events that businesses and influencers have hosted across social media and beyond.

Bill Gates’ Reddit Ask Me Anything

The Microsoft founder’s seventh AMA event on Reddit got more than 110,000 upvotes.

This is Us behind-the-scenes set tour

Stars Mandy Moore and Milo Ventimiglia use Facebook Live to take fans on a tour of the set of This is Us.

A behind-the-scenes tour of This Is Us brought to you by myself and Milo Ventimiglia! ????????????????????????????????????

Posted by Mandy Moore on Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Benefit Cosmetics’ makeup tutorials on Facebook Live

More than 2.4K viewers tuned in to learn how to create a brow-mazing glow-up.

This Halloween, we’re serving up some major brow INSPO! ???????? We’re here with the BOO-tiful @SabrinaXMakeup today, and she’s going to show us how to create a brow-mazing glow-up.

Posted by Benefit Cosmetics on Thursday, October 25, 2018

The Earful Tower Podcast’s live Pub Quiz

Oliver Gee, host of The Earful Tower podcast, hosts Parisian-themed trivia events from his YouTube channel—and even offers prizes for the winners.

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Hey there! Think you know Paris? Join my live Pub Quiz tonight. 8pm Paris time on YouTube channel. I’ll be asking YOU questions about the City of Light. Prizes for winners, shame on the cheaters. But most of all, a fun way to spend an hour in lockdown. The questions will be in sections and will get progressively harder :) Get a pen and paper, a few friends perhaps, and see if you can beat them! 8pm sharp, link in bio and right here: https://youtu.be/w_SkRvUMIXY Stay positive in the lockdown – let’s have some fun.

A post shared by The Earful Tower (@theearfultower) on Mar 22, 2020 at 8:54am PDT

Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s Facebook Live concert

The country superstars held a jam session on Facebook Live, taking requests from fans head of time and during the broadcast.

Monday night at 7pm ET the Queen and I are playing your requests during #StudioG! Post your song requests below and…

Posted by Garth Brooks on Friday, March 20, 2020

The Sunday Service Comedy Show live on YouTube

Vancouver comedy troupe, The Sunday Service, brings viewers the The Sunday Cyber Digital Service on YouTube live from their apartments.

Antron Brown’s behind-the-scenes tour on Twitter

The NHRA driver showed Twitter viewers around his shop, which houses dragsters and trophies, among other gearhead treasures.

.@AntronBrown is giving you a tour of his shop! Get a behind the scenes look at the @NHRAJrLeague dragsters that he and his kids build, work on and drive. pic.twitter.com/n7538rPwqU

— #NHRA (@NHRA) March 23, 2020

Live baking lessons from LinkedIn’s executive pastry chef

LinkedIn’s pastry chef shows members how to make croissants and bread pudding.

Purple Mattress’ sleepy Facebook Live

More than 295K people watched this 45-minute video of a woman yawning and brushing her wig.

Dear Sleepless, we're here to help. We present A Woman Who Can't Stop Yawning and Brushing Her Hair. Happy slumber.

Posted by Purple on Monday, May 1, 2017

Lunch Doodles by Mo Willems

Every day at lunchtime the Kennedy Center Education artist-in-residence hosts doodle sessions for kids on YouTube.

Lululemon’s Yoga livestreams

The yoga brand’s global ambassadors are leading workout, meditation, and yoga classes on Instagram live.

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Those sweat-dripping, feel-good endorphins don’t have to stop just because we’re distancing ourselves. Over the next few weeks, we’ll be delivering daily content from our community and ambassadors to help you live #thesweatlife wherever you are. Head to our Stories to get today’s roundup of at-home practices and choose what works for you. Be kind, get sweaty and let us know what you’d like to see from us. Tomorrow’s IG Live yoga class starts at 6pm PST. Grab your mat and join global ambassador @allymaz for a 20 minute restorative practice.

A post shared by lululemon (@lululemon) on Mar 16, 2020 at 5:16pm PDT

Online exhibitions by VanGogh Museum

The VanGogh Museum in Amsterdam lets followers take tours of gallery from the comfort of their couch.

Our tour continues! Today we dive into the bright and vivid paintings that Vincent made in Paris: https://t.co/Yz3FpjxphC Which is your favourite artwork from this part of the museum? #museumathome pic.twitter.com/k8b79qraCX

— Van Gogh Museum (@vangoghmuseum) March 24, 2020

British Museum opens its doors to Google Street View

More than 60 galleries of the British Museum can be visited from Google Street View.

???? Did you know the Museum is the largest indoor space on Google Street View?

Peruse more than 60 galleries at your leisure as we #MuseumFromHome – drop in to the Egyptian Sculpture Gallery here: https://t.co/y2JDZvWOlM pic.twitter.com/0FyV4m6ZuP

— British Museum (@britishmuseum) March 23, 2020

Fire Drill Fridays goes virtual

Jane Fonda’s organization takes climate activism online with virtual rallies every Friday.

Join @JaneFonda, @greenpeaceusa and @SenMarkey this Friday at 2pm ET / 11am PT for a #FireDrillFriday ???? teach-in on the importance of staying engaged in the age of #COVID19.

To join, register here and please spread the word: https://t.co/7eE9aZV57I pic.twitter.com/W7JdPLco7T

— Fire Drill Fridays (@FireDrillFriday) March 24, 2020

Girlboss Rally goes digital

Girlboss founder Sophia Amoruso plans to host her brand’s annual conference entirely online this year.

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In a time when connection and collaboration are needed most, we’ve decided to change things up. Across the world, the news of COVID-19 has prompted us to reconsider the ways in which we gather. In light of this, @girlboss has decided to make a shift—albeit an exciting one. The Girlboss Rally is going GLOBAL. This spring, we’re hosting our first-ever, live-streamed women’s conference—and it’s going to be absolutely FREE. All current attendees will be refunded (check your inbox for more details!), and we’re opening the gates for millions more women from across the globe to tune into the same intimate conversations and engaging workshops led by the women we admire most, from the safety of your local community or homes. The exact date will be announced soon. Programming will include timely topics such as virtual networking, digital collaboration, entrepreneurship, leadership, marketing, financial literacy, fundraising, wellness, and more, but instead of only accessing conversations from one Journey, you’ll get access to them *all*. We’ll also still provide ways for you to network virtually—because we know meaningful connections are essential to the magic of the Girlboss Rally. Here's the truth: At our core, Girlboss is an identity. It’s a community. It’s a feeling. We’ve built it—together—over the course of the last 6 years, emerging as a hashtag (19 million #Girlboss tags, to be exact) and becoming an entire movement. A force to be reckoned with. There’s nothing that could stop us from uniting the most ambitious generation of women in the world—so we hope you’ll continue to be a part of our brilliant community at this spring’s first #GlobalGirlbossRally. Tag a #Girlboss who will be watching with you!

A post shared by Girlboss Rally (@girlbossrally) on Mar 11, 2020 at 2:08pm PDT

Skift’s Business Travel Online Summit

Skift will use Zoom to host this online summit featuring multiple speakers and attendees. Guests have the opportunity to ask questions and will have access to a recording of the event.

Announcing a New Skift Online Summit for Business Travel << starting a new series of online summits on travel's path forward. https://t.co/mKTcX3jCpB via @Skift

— Rafat Ali, Media Owner & Operator (@rafat) March 23, 2020

3% Conference livestreamed presentations

This organization—founded to remedy the fact that only 3% of creative directors were women—offers livestreaming of its conferences for reduced costs. The group also regularly hosts Instagram Story takeovers to inspire followers.

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We met at Ivellisse (@Ivell1sse) at @The.Wing in SF a few weeks ago. ⁣ We thought her story and insights NEEDED to be heard, so she’s taking over our IG tomorrow!⁣ ⁣ More about Ivellisse ????⁣ ⁣ Ivellisse Morales is the founder & CEO of bombilla, a creative marketing agency for social change based in San Francisco, California. After a career building her chops at major agencies Ogilvy, IDEO, and Cone Communications, she decided to reimagine the agency model on her own values-driven terms. Since February 2018, she’s been leading a national and nimble network of diverse storytellers and designers who work with changemakers of all sizes.

A post shared by The 3% Movement (@3percentconf) on Jun 19, 2019 at 4:22pm PDT

Hootsuite can help you promote your virtual events on social media and connect with attendees. Schedule all of your social media posts, engage with followers, and measure performance from one dashboard. Try it for free.

Get Started

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fionasskncrposts · 7 years

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Day 4- Lethbridge to Medicine Hat. What a day! So packed with special moments & people & physical challenges & incredible dry heat. Today was a scorcher! Dry Heat hit 43 degrees- I have never felt such heat coming up from the pavement & I have certainly not ever biked in such conditions- created an extra challenge for us all for sure. We had to soak ourselves in water, put ice cubes down our bras & drink, drink, drink on the bike. Oh & did I mention pedal too! I had to pull myself off the bike for 30 K due to overheating just for safety. I started bonking but once I had a recovery drink & some cool air & a little rest, I was back out there again. Safety first. It's amazing what the body does & can do. We left Lethbridge early this morning in a mist of smoke but after a few hours of riding you could see the actual sun (first real glimpse once the smoke eased off)....but the sun came out fiercely as I mentioned. We pedalled & pedalled to Grassy Lake where we were fed by an amazing group of Mennonites. The food was spectacular & you could tell the veggies came right out of the garden & the pickles were homemade too. I could have kissed them all. Whilst there, we met a family who had driven from Taber AB to be with us & to share their story of their son Mason who had just finished treatment in August. Mason is doing really well right now & we pray that he will continue to do so. His father Randy was in tears when talking about it & you could see the scars on Mason's neck from the surgery& treatments he underwent. He is a happy little guy (& shy).....& he is alive! After lunch we continued on under intense heat & after a few more hours & many km, we had a rest stop on the outskirts of Medicine Hat in a place called "7 Persons". There, we stopped at am amazing sausage factory where we were so warmly welcomed by this small community- these people were incredible with their generosity. Not only did they feed us homemade sausages on a bun & ice cream (yes we eat a lot)... but they also had done some fundraising for us on their own & between the school bake sale, sausage factory owner & donation box, they managed to raise about $3000. All from a tiny little community. Very impressive indeed. Then back to the pavement again. About 20 Km later, we reached the outskirts of Medicine Hat & were given a police escort into the city (for safety). That was really neat too & really appreciated! Finally we reached our end of the day ride & hit the showers! Phew- we were stinky! It's Miller time now!

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partwildflower · 6 years

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Lisbon city guide: where to eat, shop, stay and more

Once a trading port city at the mouth of the Tagus river, Portugal’s Lisbon has grown (and to this day, still carries on growing) into a fantastically diverse hotspot, with plenty more tricks up its sleeve than its custard tarts. For a break brimming with vibrant colour, relaxing mornings and even more chilled-out nights, set your sights on this city, where living like a laid-back Lisbonite is both affordable and dangerously easy.

Lisbon, Portugal. Image: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

What to see and do

Seek out secret viewpoints

The popular panoramas from Amoreiras, the Elevador de Santa Justa and Miradouro das Portas do Sol may be iconic, but make it your mission to seek out the city’s lesser-known viewpoints for an even more marvellous landscape minus the usual crowds. Located in front of a pretty rose-hued palace, the Jardim das Necessidades offers up the best views of the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge; Miradouro da Senhora do Monte is another quiet spot, and one of the city’s highest and most enchanting come sunset; elsewhere, the layered views across the city, castle and river beyond are well worth the walk up to the top of Parque Eduardo VII.

Explore São Jorge Castle for a fill of Moorish history

Sat on a hilltop overlooking the city, this landmark is perhaps Lisbon’s most iconic and noticeable. Set in the heart of the historic centre, and surrounded by winding roads, the grounds of this 11th-century castle are also home to a Black Chamber room for 360-degree snapshots of the city, an archaeological exhibition area, a garden with native forest species, and the ruins of the former Royal Palace of the Alcáçova – and of course, the views are second-to-none. The walk up towards the castle is certainly rewarding if you’re looking for friendly watering holes, small alleyways filled with character, and photogenic tiled facades with which to fill your Instagram feed – but should the walk prove too steep, hop on board a tram for a sweat-free and no less scenic journey.

Ride an old tram through the enchanting Bairro Alto

Whether or not you’re walking Lisbon’s tourist path, you’ll likely wind up on Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo, a steep stretch near Bairro Alto which a highly-photographed funicular has travelled up and down since the late 1800s. Hop onto this yellow tram for a chance to experience the city from a unique and old-school vantage point – to your left and right, catch glimpses of local life (from the rainbow-hued graffiti-clad buildings to the laundry hung out to dry from petite balconies), and look ahead to spot the glimmering river in the horizon.

Rua da Bica de Duarte Belo in Lisbon, Portugal. Image: iStock/RossHelen

Soak up the sardine craze

You may have already heard of Lisbon’s sardine obsession – and once there, you’ll soon realise the city’s affection for this slim fish knows no bounds. Visit in the summer (June being the usual time of year) to catch the fun-spirited Lisbon Sardine Festival, a religious event otherwise known as the Feast of St. Anthony. Stock up on tinned sardines from the quirky O Mundo Fantastico da Sardinha Portuguesa and the Conserveira de Lisboa, or invest in a handful of colourful ceramic alternatives – the perfect souvenir with which to adorn your walls back home. Take a break from shopping or seafood-quaffing and make a beeline for the Rua dos Correeiros Archaeological Nucleus – a treat for history buffs, offering free and insightful underground tours of a former sardine factory (you’ll need to book your time slot in the building next door).

Discover the city’s tiles, tiles and more tiles

Without doubt one of its most distinctive features, Lisbon’s tiles are world-renowned and give the city its truly beautiful, signature appeal. Known locally as azulejos and loved for lining building facades with plentiful patterns and colours (Alfama is your go-to for brilliant displays of tiles and graffiti), they also form elaborate murals across historic landmarks and public sites: the Church and Convent of Madre de Deus showcases fine blue-and-white examples (this 16th-century structure also houses the Museu Nacional do Azulejo, established in the 1960s), while underground Metro stations, such as Oriente and Olaias, offer a visually-appealing, contemporary and artistic take.

Take a day trip further afield

While you’ll never tire of Lisbon’s high streets and tiny cobblestone alleyways, staying a little longer will give you time to explore a handful of unmissable day-trip destinations, located within easy reach by train. With its quaint town centre, toy-like Pena Palace, brilliant white National Palace and the Quinta da Regaleira (a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Gothic architecture and surreal gardens), Sintra is a touristy yet fascinating chart-topper. During warmer months, Cascais is a fine option for those who’d prefer to do nothing more than flop onto soft sands and sun themselves silly. Wherever you choose, just remember to pre-book your train and admission tickets or arrive at the station with plenty of time to spare – Lisbon’s stations are small, ticket booths are usually scarce, and the queues are lengthy.

National Palace of Sintra, Portugal. Image: iStock/SeanPavonePhoto

Where to eat and drink

Tapisco

For a tapas-style experience rich in Mediterranean character and flair, take a 15-minute stroll from Rossio Square to find this bright and bustling spot on Rua Dom Pedro V. Grab yourself a bright red stool at the vermouth bar (the first of its kind in Lisbon) or kick back in a booth, to enjoy a Portuguese-meets-Spanish menu by Chef Henrique Sá Pessoa and his team. Dishes are wide-ranging and include marinated salted cod with red onion pickle, Iberian charcuterie boards, squid ink paella, and coal-braised delicacies.

Park Bar

Couple a drink or three with those unforgettable vistas for which Lisbon is known, on a late afternoon-cum-evening jaunt to this hip, seventh-floor bar above a car park on Calçada do Combro. Warm, welcoming and informal, it serves up great drinks and snacks, views for as far as the eye can see towards the river and Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, and an entertaining events programme that ranges from DJ performances to outdoor film screenings.

Páteo at Bairro do Avillez

Simplicity meets sophistication at Chef José Avillez’s most stunning Lisbon outpost, where the foliage-filled, two-tiered interiors are truly sensational – and the varied menu of Portuguese fare is pretty impressive, too. Start your culinary journey off with Bulhão Pato clams, followed by Prawn Açorda or blue lobster on coals with Bairro’s special sauce. For something a little more low-key, try one of Avillez’s numerous other venues: Pizzaria Lisboa for a generously-sized take on the classic Italian pie, Taberna at Bairro do Avillez for rave-reviewed food in a market-style space, or Cantinho do Avillez for informal gastronomic dining amid colourful antiques.

Páteo – Bairro do Avillez, Lisbon. Image courtesy of Grupo José Avillez

O Prego

Located in a corner building near São Jorge Castle, this restaurant will offer welcome respite on your steep uphill climb towards this historic landmark. Head here for the photogenic bruschetta platters, topped with spiced sausages, cheese, fish and fruit, and be sure not to leave without your fill of fantastic local wine. For those with bigger appetites, the traditional Portuguese seafood soup is a flavourful treat you’ll not want to miss. Nab yourself a spot on the small outdoor terrace on sunny days, or enjoy the warmth of the restaurant’s rustic indoor dining area.

Time Out Market’s food hall

If you’re a ravenous traveller who simply can’t settle on just one eatery (and why should you?), make for the Time Out Market’s food hall. Since its opening in 2014, it has been a hit amongst tourists and locals alike, who flock here for more than 40 stalls serving up the dreamiest of flavours – from messy burgers and ice-cold lagers, to expertly-mixed cocktails and refined fare by Michelin-starred names. Sample the freshest oysters at Marisqueira Azul, before sinking your teeth into traditional Portuguese snacks with a sophisticated twist at Balcão da Esquina – but leave enough room for the carefully curated cakes at Nós é mais Bolos, and don’t forget to grab a bag of Croqueteria’s much-loved croquettes for the road.

Casa dos Ovos Moles em Lisboa

For sweet pastries heightened to a whole new level, head straight to this hotspot’s two branches in either Estrela or Chiado – the former for a signature experience packed full of colour and kitsch fun, or the latter for a decidedly more rustic yet equally charming atmosphere. Line your stomach with their speciality, ovos moles – a 500-year-old Portuguese pastry born in convent kitchens back in the 16th century, and offering up a tasty slice of history today. You’ll find a huge variety of confections to choose from, including the conical tocha do monge and the cute, crescent-shaped pasteis de Santa Clara turnovers.

Image courtesy of Casa dos Ovos Moles em Lisboa

Quiosque Ribeira das Naus

Take the riverside stroll from Comércio Plaza towards the Ponte 25 de Abril bridge, and you’ll come across this al fresco café-bar, offering loungers and a shaded seating area for a drinking experience that’s as relaxing as can be. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick drink or hanging around a little longer to catch the sunset across the river (a remarkable sight on warmer days), you’ll soon find yourself slipping back a few gears, as you soak up the chilled-out atmosphere and slow-sip a cold beer.

Leopold

You won’t find any cooked dishes at this small and intimate restaurant, where Chef Tiago Feio uses his fiery wit rather than a stove to create a tasting menu of balanced and incredibly thoughtful regional dishes, made using locally-sourced ingredients. Set in a former bakery near São Jorge Castle, it provides an ultra-refreshing culinary thrill paired, but of course, with delicious wines and quality service – all traits which have earned it top TripAdvisor ratings and reviews.

A Taberna da Rua das Flores

Prepare yourself for a feast at this traditional taverna, where the dining area is so small and the reputation is so great that you’ll need to arrive early (and mostly likely queue) for a table. Convivial, buzzing and informal, it offers a set menu, presented by waiters to each table alongside recommended wine pairings – an attention to detail that’s showcased across the sharing dishes, too, each bursting with authentic Portuguese flavours, fresh ingredients and eye-catching presentation.

A Taberna da Rua das Flores, Lisbon. Image courtesy of A Taberna da Rua das Flores

Where to shop

Embaixada

Based in Ribeiro da Cunha Palace, a beautiful and iconic 19th-century building, Embaixada is one of Lisbon’s most sought-after and popular shopping galleries. Find independent boutiques and artists selling high-end accessories, homeware and craftwork, and head to the open dining area on the ground floor to refuel after a spot of retail therapy. If you’re a lover of architecture and design, it’s worth paying this hotspot a visit simply to marvel at the intricate detailing across the palace’s doors, walls, pillars and ceilings.

Mercado da Ribeira

Forming one half of the expansive Time Out Market – the largest in Lisbon – this traditional spot is your go-to for long-standing stalls selling piles of fresh seafood, meat, fruit, vegetables and flowers. Head to this historic venue early, as the produce market opens from 6am until 2pm only. For edible treats from lunchtime until much later in the day, the adjacent food hall (reviewed above) provides plentiful chances to line your stomach with hearty food and drink.

LX Factory

History meets contemporary cool at this creative island and shopper’s haven, located on a sprawling, 23,000-square-metre industrial site. There’s a little something for everyone here, and the plethora of artist-run shops and eateries make the 20-minute train journey (or hour-long riverside walk, if you’re so inclined) worth it – whether you’re after your fill of fashion, music, fine art or finger-licking-good food. Stock up on wall art at Bairro Arte and realise your vintage homeware dreams at muitomuito, before sitting down for a bite to eat – we have a soft spot for LXeeseCake by Madame Cheeselova, where the coulis-topped cheesecake is melt-in-your-mouth spectacular.

LX Factory, Lisbon. Image courtesy of LX Factory/Ricardo Junqueira

Garrafeira Nacional

No visit to Portugal would be complete without a taste of the local wine and port, and you’d be foolish not to want to take a few bottles of the country’s finest back home with you. Located on Rua de Santa Justa, just steps from the Elevador that offers magical vistas, Garrafeira Nacional is your go-to for a seemingly never-ending range of wines, ports, whiskies and more. The service is on point, too, with knowledgeable staff on hand to help you navigate the maze of options.

Feira da Ladra

Antiques obsessives and junk collectors should head to this gem of a gypsy flea market and stock up on all matter of trinkets, from books and ceramics to military objects and clothing. Hop on board Tram 28 to reach the market, which is spread across Alfama’s Campo de Santa Clara from dawn to dusk on Tuesdays and Saturdays. You’ve the National Pantheon just around the corner for an impressive spot of post-shopping sightseeing.

Solar Antiques

If you can’t get enough of the city’s incredible tiles, scattered across its building facades in a flurry of patterned colour, you could always opt to take some home with you. Head to this marvellous shop on Rua Dom Pedro V, to find genuine tiles, elegant furnishings and more gorgeous decorative pieces, spread out across its three floors. Classified by the New York Times as one of the 12 Treasures of Europe, this shop sells a wide range of tiles dating as far back as the 15th century – even history buffs will find their slice of heaven here, as each tile offers a unique display of ancient styles and traditions.

Image courtesy of The 8 – Downtown Suites

Where to stay

The 8 – Downtown Suites

For a true like-a-local experience, snap up a stay at The 8 – a hip hotel in a great location between Bairro Alto, Alfama, São Jorge Castle and the riverfront, all no more than a 15-minute stroll away. Behind its bold tiled blue façade, expect to find hip yet understated guest rooms where wood floors and furnishings go hand-in-hand with monochrome colour palettes and design-led touches – from the geometric patterned rugs to the 1960s-inspired chairs you’ll love kicking back on after a day of sightseeing.

York House Lisboa

For something a little more sophisticated, book yourself in for a stellar stay at York House Lisboa, a truly charming and historic hotel near Santos station. Set in an old Carmelite convent dating back to the 17th century, its individually-decorated guest rooms and suites combine modern features, refined colour schemes, clean lines and plenty of natural light. Bask in the sunshine on the leafy outdoor terrace, before dining in a chic and classic setting at the on-site restaurant.

Hotel Valverde

If you’re looking to pamper yourself, this five-star stunner promises all the suave style, confidence and upscale character you could need. Poised by Avenida station, within easy reach of central sights, it favours relaxation by way of elegant yet sober décor – treat yourself to the Valverde suite for an aquarium window looking out onto Lisbon’s rooftops and São Jorge Castle. Should you wish to escape the city’s bustle for a few hours, the hotel’s outdoor terrace, Pateo, offers a swimming pool plus cocktails and 5pm tea service.

Image courtesy of Hotel Valverde

Palácio Belmonte

Located near the riverfront in Alfama, this hotel combines traditional Portuguese decor and old-world sophistication with current-day art and lifestyle – picture blue-and-white tiles from the 1700s sitting pretty alongside photographic art prints, contemporary decorative pieces and a cultural club showcasing music, modern art and history. Visit the on-site Leopold restaurant (reviewed above) for minimalist decor and the purest of fine dining experiences, or nab yourself a poolside lounger to top up your tan amid pretty gardens.

1908 Lisboa Hotel

Cutting-edge cool is the order of the day at 1908 Lisboa Hotel, which fills an award-winning 20th-century building with fun design-forward statements. The guest rooms here are simple yet stylish affairs, but the real show-stealer is its Restaurant Infame: open for brunch, lunch, dinner and bar treats until late, it serves a refreshing, internationally-inspired menu within a striking, industrial-themed space.

Memmo Príncipe Real

Putting style at the forefront, this five-star Design Hotel near Rossio Square emphasises smart urban living, with an ultra-modern facade hiding ultra-sleek interiors. Try contemporary fare followed by a craft cocktail at the restaurant and bar, ascend to the terrace for a dip in the pristine outdoor pool with spectacular city vistas, or simply retreat to the calm, modern elegance of your guest room – it’s all about fine lines and upscale elements in these, from the faux-fur throws to the smooth colour schemes. ■

Image courtesy of Palácio Belmonte/Sivan Askayo

Written for Secret Escapes’ blog, The Great Escape, published 20 April 2018.

#Lisbon #work

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suzannemcappsca · 6 years

Text

Scenes from the “Sausage Factory”

Rick Weiler

The recently released decision in L-Jalco Holdings Inc. v. Lawrynowicz & Associates, 2018 ONSC 4002 (CanLII) will be of great interest to mediators, lawyers and clients alike. The case offers a rare glimpse inside the “sausage factory” that is commercial mediation and highlights mediator persistence and creativity in reaching a settlement of a complex commercial matter. The case also reviews and applies the factors to be considered when a Court is asked to enforce a settlement agreement.

First, the background. The plaintiffs commenced four separate actions in negligence, breach of fiduciary duty and contract against their former solicitors and certain appraisers for damages arising from a mortgage transaction. All parties in all of the actions agreed to a full day mediation of all of the actions before Michael Silver (a well known and highly experienced commercial mediator based in Toronto Ontario) to be held October 14, 2016.

The mediation proceeded with all parties in attendance and represented by counsel, except for a Mr. Cavanaugh, a named defendant in one of the actions. The discussions were lengthy and hard-fought on all sides. Apparently, near the end of the mediation, as the parties were closing in on an agreed settlement amount of CAN$750,000 to be paid in agreed proportions by the various defendants, Mr. Cavanaugh made it known that there may be an impediment to his paying his share – $50,000 – as he had concerns about negative tax implications to doing so. There were further discussions about what to do to deal with that eventuality and the mediator proposed several alternatives which were ultimately memorialized in the Minutes of Settlement. The Minutes of Settlement were executed that evening after all parties had full opportunity to read them and obtain their counsel’s advice.

Here we have to pause for a tip the hat to Mr. Silver for both his persistence in prodding the parties and their counsel towards settlement and for his creativity in being the one to propose the various if an adverse tax opinion upset the original deal.

The settlement, as agreed to, provided that if Mr. Cavanaugh obtained a opinion that he would experience negative tax consequences as a result of paying his $50,000 then the parties had the following options: 1. The plaintiffs could declare the settlement was null and void; 2. If they didn’t exercise that option the plaintiffs could accept $700,00 from the defendants other than Mr. Cavanagh and proceed with their action against him alone; or 3. The other defendants could elect to pay the full settlement amount of $750,000 to the plaintiffs (and presumably take an assignment of the claim against Mr. Cavanagh, although this is not explicitly stated in the decision).

Mr. Cavanaugh did obtain the negative tax opinion and the plaintiffs did not terminate the settlement when they learned of this. Discussions ensued as to which of the other two options would be pursued although it is clear that the plaintiffs were developing “settlement remorse” and, in fact, subsequently fired their lawyer. The mediator stayed very much involved in these subsequent discussions.

The remaining defendants ultimately advised the plaintiffs’ new lawyer that they would proceed to pay $750,000 and finalize the settlement but, by then, the plaintiffs had had enough and took the position that the settlement was void and that the litigation would proceed. The paying defendants then brought this motion before Madam Justice Carole Brown seeking an Order enforcing the settlement agreement reached at mediation. Justice Brown provides a useful summary of the law in Ontario relating to the enforceability of settlement agreements:

“The Law [33] Pursuant to Rule 49.09 of the Rules of Civil Procedure, where a party to an accepted offer to settle fails to comply with the terms of the offer, the other party may make a motion to a judge for judgment in the terms of the accepted offer, and the judge may grant judgment accordingly. [34] A settlement agreement is enforceable as a contract, and the rules of contractual interpretation apply: Dofasco Inc. v National Steel Car Limited, 2012 ONSC 6434 (CanLII). A settlement agreement among parties should be enforced unless the court is satisfied that, in all of the circumstances, there is a real risk of a clear injustice: Hilco Industrial Acquisition Canada ULC v Engreen Maitland Inc., [2016] O. J. No. 3097. [35] As to the existence of a settlement, the following factors are to be considered: (i) mutual intention to create a legally binding relationship; and (ii) an agreement on all of the essential terms of the settlement: Tondera v Vukadinovic [2015] O.J. No. 5158. [36] Where there is a mutual intention to create a legally binding relationship, the parties agree on all essential terms and make reference to finalizing mutually acceptable settlement documents, the contract is binding: Fehrman v Goodlife Fitness Centres Inc., [2017] O.J. No. 3731. [37] A written agreement to settle is to be measured by an objective reading of the language used by the parties to reflect their agreement. Courts should not be “too quick to find an ambiguity or lack of agreement in the terms of a settlement agreement”: Fehrman v Goodlife Fitness Centres Inc., supra. [38] Following determination by the court of the existence of a settlement, the court must determine whether to exercise its discretion to enforce the settlement. The factors to be considered by the Court are as follows:1. Whether the offer was clear and unequivocal;2. Whether or not a mistake was made;3. Whether the settlement was reasonable;4. The degree of prejudice to either party if settlement is not given effect; and5. The effect of the settlement on third parties if the settlement is not enforced.See: Marcel Equipment Ltd. v Equipements Beniot D’Amour et Fils Inc., [1995] O. J. No. 673. [39] The discretion to refuse to enforce the settlement should be “rarely exercised”: In litigation matters, where properly retained solicitors enter into settlements and where there are no known limitations of authority, these settlements ought to be binding upon the parties. It is the policy of the court and it is public policy to encourage the settlement of actions. Where solicitors have entered into settlement agreements on behalf of their clients, it would be contrary to both court and public policy to foster secondary litigation to overturn those settlements.See: Homewood v Ahmed, [2003] O. J. No. 4677 para 57 [40] The court, in deciding whether the settlement should be enforced, will consider whether the parties’ pre-settlement positions remained intact, whether there would be prejudice to the party seeking to enforce the settlement if the settlement were not enforced, the extent of the prejudice to the party seeking to resist the settlement if the settlement were enforced, and whether third parties would be affected if the settlement were not enforced: Hilco Industrial Acquisition Canada ULC v Engreen Maitland Inc., supra.”

In applying this law to the facts of this case Justice Brown had little difficulty in finding that the Minutes of Settlement were enforceable.

Those reading the decision to the end will be surprised, as I was, to see the cost endorsement: “[56] The parties provided their bills of costs. I am satisfied, in all of the circumstances, that the plaintiffs (emphasis added) are entitled to their costs of this action in the amount of $34,707.17.”

In Ontario costs follow the result. As the defendants had been were wholly successful how could the plaintiffs be entitled to costs? A check with one of the counsel involved in the matter confirmed that this was an error and a correction is being issued.

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