POLAND: Wawel Castle in Krakow

Wawel Castle sits on Wawel Hill overlooking the Vistula River in Krakow.

For centuries it was the home of Polish kings and where they were crowned and buried.

The castle began as a medieval residence and was rebuilt and expanded over time, especially during the 16th century.

And then for political reasons, in 1596, the King moved the royal court from Kraków to Warsaw.

After that, Polish kings were still crowned and buried at Wawel Cathedral and the city remained the traditional royal and religious centre of Poland.

THAILAND: There are Just a Few Palaces and Temples in Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is home to over 10.5 million people in the metropolitan region.

There are Buddha images or shrines of all sizes throughout the city, and, the country.

While we were in Bangkok we visited a couple of the must-see highlights; the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha), and Wat Pho (the temple with the Reclining Budha).

The temples are much more than tourist attractions. Buddhism is an inextricable part of daily life in Thailand. 

NETHERLANDS: Royal Palaces and Royal Stables

Noordeinde Palace is in the centre of The Hague. 

Compared to other European palaces, Noordeinde is modest. 

Interestingly, it is centrally located on one of The Hague's posh shopping streets. 

It is no longer a residence but is the King’s place of work. 

The palace is the property of the State and includes the Royal Stables. 

Noordeinde Palace is not open to the public because it is still in use as a working palace. 

Except.... they open it to the public once a year for a very limited time, and timing was perfect for us!