In the late 1800s, a passionate collector Fritz Mayer van den Bergh amassed an amazing art collection. He purchased paintings by Peter Brueghel for a pittance, and managed to beat major museums purchasing stunning medieval sculptures. Mayer van den Bergh had an eye for the best quality in almost every genre. After his death, his mother finally managed to make her son’s dream come true: she built a museum, which showcased his collection. Today, the museum stands largely uncharged: it is still a museum of one man... and his mother. Highly recommended in the Great smaller museums of Europe.

In front of the Cathedral, the touching statue by Batist Vermeulen commemorates Nello and Patrasche, characters from the 1872 novel "A Dog of Flanders". Set in Antwerp, this tale of enduring friendship between a boy and his dog, culminating in their tragic end at the cathedral, resonates globally, especially in Japan. The statue captures their final, poignant moments together, symbolising unconditional loyalty.

Père Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and is reputed to be the most visited in the world. It is a huge and peaceful park and the final resting place of many Frenchmen and foreigners who have enriched French life over the past 200 years, including Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Camille Pissarro, Marcel Proust, Molière, Max Ernst, Maria Callas, and Jim Morrison, to name just a few.

Cafe La Mancha is a lovely coffee shop tucked away in the busy downtown of San Jose — yet sitting inside provides a respite from the busy noise of the city. The staff as well as the owner will eagerly chat with you about their coffee. Pair your perfect cup of caffeinated goodness with freshly made carrot cake or lemon pie. Take a break under the glass roof of the courtyard and recharge your batteries.