Santorini, Greece the Aegean wonder

Santorini GreeceLocated in the South Aegean Sea, the island of Santorini, Greece, is the result of a gigantic volcanic eruption that left a giant caldera at its edge when the land collapsed. This huge lagoon, surrounded on three sides by thousand foot high cliffs, is over thirteen hundred feet deep. Atop the cliffs sits Santorini’s capital city, Fira, filled with charming white-washed cottages along narrow streets lined with jewelry, souvenir shops and cafes. The deep caldera can accommodate all but the largest ships, which can anchor just about anywhere in it, with the principal port being Athinias. Santorini is the largest island in the small Santorini archipelago, which is made up of inhabited Santorini and Therasia and uninhabited Nea Kameni, Palaia Kameni, Aspronisi and Christiana. Santorini, Greece, also known as Thera, and Therasia, were once part of the same island. They became separated by one of the largest catastrophic volcanic eruptions on Earth that occurred in the middle of the Second Millenium, in the Late Bronze Age.

The eruption destroyed Santorini and settlements on the nearby islands. It has been said that Plato wrote about the legendary island of Atlantis because he was inspired by that volcanic event on Thera. The volcanic explosion left a layer of ash, volcanic cinders and volcanic blocks or rock fragments two hundred feet thick on the island. The delineation of this white layer and the soil can be clearly seen today. Deposits of pumice from the eruption were found in sea beds and lakes as far away as Turkey. The eruption is said to have caused climate change in the area of the Mediterranean, the Aegean and even in the Northern Hemisphere. Evidence in studies of tree-ring dating, the dating science based on an analysis of tree ring patterns, shows that this climatic event depressed growth of Ireland’s European oak trees and Sweden’s Scotch pine trees. Crops failed in China due to a volcanic winter that is said to have been was caused by the eruption.

Today Santorini, Greece is a popular international tourist destination, mostly due to its charm and the beauty of its legendary sunsets and magnificent landscapes. Last year it was chosen by both the BBC and “Travel & Leisure Magazine” as the top island in the world. The summer months are most popular for visitors to the island. Spectacular sunsets can be viewed in the Oia Village at the island’s northern tip, which has an interrupted view. The island also has unique and fantastic beaches with a variety of colors of beach pebbles. The color depends on the solidified lava that is found on the beach, with red, black or white beaches. Most visitors consider Perissa Beach the best on the island. It is shielded by cliffs and very long with dark sand. The darker colored beaches have warmer waters due to the heat absorption process. The next most preferred beach is the one in Kamari, which is the black pebble beach. Above Kamari is Thera’s ancient city which is open from 10 am to 2:30 pm each day but Monday.

There are many villages on Santorini, Greece. Some have imposing old homes, or remnants of a Venetian castle, and there are several Byzantine churches on the island. The churches have bright blue domes and several of the villages spill picturesquely down the cliffs toward the caldera. Fira has a great many shops, tavernas and hotels. It is overlooking the port where most of the cruise ships anchor. Visitors can take a cable car up the cliffs, or go by mule up the almost six hundred steps. It is worth the trip, as it one of the most stunning villages on the island. Here you will also be able to visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, which displays artifacts found in the ruins. In the south of the island is Akrotiri, a thirty-five hundred year old Minoan town preserved in ash similar to Pompeii. It has well preserved streets, buildings and stairways. Wine-making is still an occupation on Santorini, Greece, so make a visit to one of the wineries for a taste of the local wines.

Santorini has many types of accommodations on the island for those who want to stay over. There are varieties of hotels, villas, rooms and apartments for all budgets. Santorini, Greece can be visited by plane, boat or water. Most cruises to the islands of Greece include a stop at Santorini, docking at the port below the ancient Thera. There is a major airport on the island which is only about three miles from the downtown area. Olympic Air, Aegean Airlines and Athens Airways all service the island, along with several charter flights. Ferry boats arrive daily from Naxos, Paros, and Piraeus, and fast catamarans arrive daily from Ios, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Folegandros, Sifnos, Iraklio and Piraeus. If you are visiting Santorini, Greece for just one day, do try to get there before sunset so you can make sure to see that fantastic sight. Some boats arrive at night, and you will not realize that you are entering a remarkable harbor that was once the crater of an enormous volcano. Come visit and see these splendors for yourself.

Is it Time To Experience the Swiss Alps?

The Swiss Alps

The Swiss AlpsAh, the Swiss Alps, who could resist? If you are headed to Switzerland on holiday, this is one place not to be missed. Comprised primarily of the Alps range of mountains, it is a stunningly dramatic landscape of rugged and jagged rock formations. Bring your camera because this is some place that you will certainly want to photograph over and over again. And if you like to ski, then you have found the perfect location for this exciting sport. So settle into your Chalet and have a sip of Schnapps, as we visit the enchanted and inviting Swiss Alps. Perhaps the first activity that comes to mind when we think of this mountain destination is skiing holiday. This is because the region has perhaps some of the finest ski resorts in the world. In fact the names Alps and skiing are nearly interchangeable. But the delight of the Alps goes far beyond the skiing industry. In fact there is a whole world of adventure that awaits you when you decide to visit the spectacular Swiss Alps.

Comprising more than half of Switzerland’s total land area, the Swiss Alps are also made up of several glaciers. Several other countries share in the Alps mountain range, including Italy, France and Austria. The tourist industry makes up a major portion of the economy in this popular area. With skiing being at the top of the list of attractions, there are several highly regarded resorts that cater to skiing enthusiasts. The primary areas for these activities include Oberland, Bernese as well as Graubunden. Most of the ski resorts open sometimes as early as November and can extend as far out as May. A few of the well-known resorts include Grindelwald, Gastaad, Crans Montana, Zermatt and Davos to name only a small portion of the total resorts that populate this region. Most of these resorts are just a few hours drive from the larger cites in Switzerland. Skiers from around the world gravitate to this skiing Mecca of sorts. The saying is you have not gone skiing until you have experienced the Swiss Alps.

After you have enjoyed a relaxing shot of Schnapps on your skiing holiday in your well-appointed Swiss Chalet, you can then begin to explore the interesting landscape of this mountain world. For example, take in the powerful images of majestic mountain peaks, some of the more notable peaks ideal for photo opportunities include, Jungfraujoch peak, Piz Badile Range of peaks, the peaks of Finsteraarhorn, and the famous Matterhorn. Also a part of this breathtaking landscape includes such glacial formations as the Aletsch Glacier, the Saleina Glacier, the Stein Glacier, the Morteratsch Glacier and the Oberaar glacial formation to name just a few. This is a truly picturesque region with endless images of mountains, glaciers, passes, and peaks. It only takes one trip to the Swiss Alps to know you have discovered a place with few rivals. However, the true splendor of this exciting region cannot be fully appreciated in just a few days. So plan for at least a few weeks of more to adequately take in all that is offered here.

Getting around is a fairly easy task while visiting the Swiss Alps. Most of the mountain resorts are accessible via the extensive public transportation system that criss crosses the entire region. Some of the national transport includes the Golden Pass, the Federal Railway and the Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn is especially interesting. The Matterhorn Gotthard Bahn is considered a rather narrow rail when measured in gauge. The route spans from Zermatt to Disentis. Also worth the time to explore is the Rhaetian Railway system, a private railway system that operates in larger tourism centers such as Davos as well as St. Moritz. Tourists will find that most destinations are within just a few hours away by train. The best part of taking the train is the view and scenery. Stunning views while you relax on the meandering train will keep your interest the whole way. There are often many ways to get around while on holiday, but few compare to a beautiful train ride through the Swiss Alps.

No matter what your interest, the Alps of Switzerland will keep you coming back for more of all that this marvellous area has to offer. You will experience stunning views from your comfortable Swiss Chalet on a skiing holiday that will create memories that will last a lifetime. You may even decide to bring back home a bottle or two of the signature drink of the region, a bottle of fine Swiss Schnapps. This is a very worthwhile trip with so much to see and do, how could anyone resist. Getting around will be a breeze with one of the finest networks of transportation in the world. The stunning mountain landscape and breathtaking glacial formations will leave you in a splendid daze. The best way to take advantage of all the scenery will without a doubt be the train. There is good reason why so many people choose the train as their preferred way of travel in Switzerland. Make plans to visit the Alps of Switzerland, and be ready to be swept away on a journey only few have dreamed of before. See the Alps today, and see what you have been missing.

Travelling to the Black Forest

the Black Forest GermanyThe next time you visit Germany, one sight you won’t want to miss is the intriguingly unique black forest. Situated in south-western reaches of Germany, this is an area that gets its name from the thick heavy undergrowth of foliage that routinely blocks out the sun. This ecologically rich mountainous area is heavily wooded and is surrounded by the Rhine valley. One primary source of water feeding the forest throughout is the Danube River, while the majority of tress is of the fir and pine variety. With miles and miles of hiking and walking paths this is a true wonderland of Bavaria for the outdoors type. Perhaps of greater interest to the outdoors inclined will be the miles of cross-country skiing courses. This area is so rich in ecology and interesting sights it is no wonder that tourists flock here each year, especially throughout the summer months. In fact tourist related activities make for a major portion of the economy in this area. To see where the Black Forest is situated check out this map of Germany.

When someone first hears the term Black Forest, they usually think of some type of food. This has become the best-recognized use of the term around the world. Perhaps the most widely known food to carry this name is of course the Black Forest Cake. The primary ingredients of this delectable delight are usually chocolate cake, cherries, and rich heavy cream. The primary flavor enhancer is the flavored liquor known as Kirsch. Another well-known food item is the ever-popular Black Forest Ham, a family favorite the world over. The area is no stranger to exquisite foods either, with some of the finest restaurants in the world located right here in the region. The area is replete with fine dining and will keep those with a love for fine food busy for a very long time. A number of these restaurants have the distinction of having some of the highest ratings in terms of food excellence in the world. No visit to the region would be complete without a visit to at least a few of these delightful dining establishments.

Another interesting point of remark that this German or Bavarian region is well known for is the wood carving industry. This makes up for a good portion of annual tourist revenue with a main portion of the artistic woodworking being the design of Cuckoo Clocks. The traditional clockmaker of the Black Forest is regarded as the premier clock maker in the world. The clocks are lauded as the best and most precise clocks anywhere. This clock making art dates back a few hundred years and has its roots firmly planted in the area. It is little wonder that there is such a high demand for this much sought after souvenir by the droves of tourists that make their way to the region each year. This area has a truly unique and inspiring feel that you won’t find anyplace else in the world. Once you have spent a little time in this inviting and enchanted forest you will likely want to return. With a map of Germany in hand and a little spare time the possibilities are endless when visiting this very special place.

Getting back to nature is something we all strive for at one time or another, and a visit to this magical forest is definitely one way to do that. In the Black Forest expect to see a wide range of wildlife as well as rare and unique foliage. At the floor or base of the forest one little creature that stands out as unique to this part of the world are the giant size earthworms. Like nothing you have ever set your eyes on before, these earth worms have almost a prehistoric appearance to them. They are a bit of an oddity and let you know that you are in a very unique place deep in the German forest. Another species indigenous to the area is the horse breed known as the Black Forest Fox. Known as being a true workhorse these animals have been used for many years to work the land. Also indigenous to the region is a rare bird known as the Wood Grouse or Heather Cock. This is a rather large bird weighing in at nearly 16 pounds. This beautiful bird is yet another example of how diverse and wonderful this forest really can be.

The list goes on as to the unique sights you will see in this fantasy like forest world. One point of interest that should be on anyone’s list of places to see while visiting the Black Forest is the world famous museum known as Schwarzwalder Freilicht Museum. This remarkable museum puts on exhibits that relate and show how people lived during the 16th century. It focuses specifically on those who tended to the farms in the region during that period. The museum has actually recreated a number of original old farms. Also when making the museum rounds, you would not want to miss the German Museum of clocks. This museum offers a historical perspective of German clock building. No matter what you reason for visiting this Bavarian wonderland, one thing you can count on is that it will be well worth your time. So why not get out your map of Germany and set a course for the enchanted Black Forest. One trip and you will know why this area draws the number of people that is does.

French Riviera holiday with with Style!

French RivieraThis sprawl of pebble beaches and billion-dollar houses has always captivated sun lovers and socialites. Today’s admirers know not to miss the Côte d’Azur’s textbook points of interest: animated St-Tropez; the Belle Époque aura of Cannes; the towns made famous by Picasso-Antibes, Vallauris, Mougins; the urban charms of Nice; and a number of spots where the per-capita population of billionaires must be among the highest on the planet: Cap d’Antibes, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and Monaco. It’s up in the hills above the coast that you’ll find the charm you expect from France, both in sophisticated hotels with gastronomic restaurants and in friendly mom and pop auberges (inns); the farther north you drive, the lower the prices. Of course, certain areas of the Riviera book up faster than others, but all hit overload from June to September. It’s essential to book in advance; up to half a year for the summer season is not unheard of, and is, in fact, much appreciated. Festivals and good weather will also affect your chances. If you arrive without a reservation, try the tourist information centers, which can usually be of help. Smaller villages often have tiny, charming hotels or bed-and-breakfasts, which translates to fewer than 10 rooms, and which also means they fill up fast, even out of season in some places. If you’re really out of luck, don’t try sleeping on the beach; as romantic as it sounds, it is not tolerated and strictly controlled. Worst-case scenario is a string of cheap motels on the outskirts of most major city centers, which cost €25-€65.

Even in tiny villages some hauteur cuisine places can be as dressy as those in Monaco, if not more so, but in general, restaurants on the Côte d’Azur are quite relaxed. At lunchtime, a T-shirt and shorts are just fine in all but the fanciest places; bathing suits, however, should be kept for the beach. Night time wear is casual, too – but be aware that for after-dinner drinks, many clubs and discos draw the line at running shoes and jeans. Food plays a crucial role in the south of France, and some of the best restaurants aren’t so easy to access; make sure to include taxi money in your budget to get to some of the more remote restaurants, or plan on renting a car. Try to come in truffle, lavender, or olive season. Explore the best sights, entertainment, and shopping with our top choices and insider tips. On the outskirts of “new” Vence, toward St-Jeannet is the Chapelle du Rosaire, better known to the world-at-large as the Matisse Chapel. The artist decorated the chapel with beguiling simplicity and clarity between 1947 and 1951 – the chapel was the artist’s gift to nuns who had nursed him through illness. It reflects the reductivist style of the era: walls, floor, and ceiling are gleaming white, and the small stained-glass windows are cool greens and blues. “Despite its imperfections I think it is my masterpiece… the result of a lifetime devoted to the search for truth,” wrote Matisse, who designed and dedicated the chapel when he was in his eighties and nearly blind.

Carved out of the rock face and one of Monte Carlo’s most stunning escapes, the gardens are studded with thousands of succulents and cacti, all set along promenades and belvederes over the sea. There are rare plants from Mexico and Africa, and the hillside plot, threaded with bridges and grottoes and studded with faux boulders (actually hollow sculptures), can’t be beat for coastal splendour. Prince Albert I established the gardens in the late 19th century. Also on the grounds, or actually under them, are the Grottes de l’Observatoire —spectacular grottoes and caves a-drip with stalagmites and spotlighted with fairy lights. The largest cavern is called “La Grande Salle” and looks like a Romanesque rock cathedral. Traces of Cro-Magnon civilization have been found here, so the grottoes now bear the official name of the Musée d’Anthropologie Préhistorique. The Sentier Tirepoil passes below (but unfortunately does not access) the Villa Eilenroc, designed by Charles Garnier, who created the Paris Opéra—which should give you some idea of its style. It commands the tip of the peninsula from a grand and glamorous garden. On Wednesdays from September to June, visitors are allowed to wander through the reception salons, which retain the Louis Seize-Trianon feel of the noble facade. The Winter Salon still has its 1,001 Nights ceiling mural painted by Jean Dunand, the famed art deco designer; display cases are filled with memorabilia donated by Caroline Groult-Flaubert (Antibes resident and goddaughter of the great author); and the boudoir has boiseries from the Marquis de Sévigné’s Paris mansion. As you leave, be sure to detour to La Rosaerie, the rose garden of the estate – in the distance you can spot the white portico of the Château de la Cröe, another legendary villa (now reputedly owned by a syndicate of Russian billionaires). Whether or not the Eilenroc is haunted by Helene Beaumont, the rich singer who built it, or King Leopold II of Belgium, King Farouk of Egypt, Aristotle Onassis, or Greta Garbo – who all rented here – only you will be able to tell.

If you’re all dressed up and have just won big, invest in a drink in the intimate walnut-and-velour Bar Le Relais, in the landmark Hôtel Negresco. The glassed-in complex of the Eden Casino houses restaurants, bars, a dance club, and a casino. In July the Nice Jazz Festival draws performers from around the world. The antiques and brocante market, by the old port, is held Tuesday through Saturday. For every sort of hat imaginable, from the basic beret to huge creations with many a flower and ostrich plume, check out La Chapellerie at their Cours Saleya boutique (there are two other shops in Nice).You have to hand it to the French, they even do second-hand fashion right. Steps away from the Hotel Negresco, Mademoiselle has quickly become the place to shop in Nice: Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Hermès – you name it – the gangs all here, at least in vintage terms. You’ll find lots of luxury brand clothes, shoes, bags, and belts to rummage through, and it’s all excellently priced.

Monaco, Toy Kingdom: Yes, Virginia, you can afford to visit Monte Carlo—that is, if you avoid its casinos and head for its tropical gardens. Picasso and Company: Because artists have long loved the Côte d’Azur, it’s blessed with superb art museums, including the Fondation Maeght in St-Paul and the Musée Picasso in Antibes. Èze, Island in the Sky: The most perfectly perched of the coast’s villages perchés, Èze has some of the most breathtaking views this side of a NASA space capsule. St-Tropez à Go-Go: Brave the world’s most outlandish fishing port in high summer and soak up the scene. Just don’t forget the fake tan lotion. Nice, Queen of the Riviera: With its bonbon-color palaces, blue Baie des Anges, time-stained Old Town, and Musée Matisse, this is one of France’s most colorful cities. The French Riviera is famed for its grand villas and even grander gardens built by Victorian dukes, Spanish exiles, Belgian royals, and American blue bloods. Although its hothouse crescent blooms everywhere with palm and lemon trees and jungle flowers, nowhere else does it bloom so extravagantly as in Menton, famous for its temperate climes and 24-karat sun. Menton attracted a great share of wealthy hobbyists during the 1920s and 1930s, including Major Lawrence Johnston, a gentleman gardener best known for his Cotswolds wonderland, Hidcote Manor. Fair-haired and blue-eyed, this gentle American wound up buying a choice estate in the village of Gorbio – one of the loveliest of all perched seaside villages, set 10 km (6 mi) west of Menton – and spent two decades making the Serre de la Madone one of the horticultural masterpieces of the coast. He brought back exotica from his many trips to South Africa, Mexico, and China, and planted them in a series of terraces, accented by little pools, vistas, and stone steps. Although most of his creeping plumbago, pink belladonna, and night-flowering cacti are now gone, his garden has been reopened by the municipality. Car facilities are very limited but the garden can also be reached from Menton via bus No. 7 (get off at Mers et Monts stop). Back in Menton, green-thumbers will also want to visit the town’s Jardin Botanique, the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden (Av. St-Jacques 04-93-35-86-72 Closed Tues.), planted by Maybud Campbell in the 1910s, much prized by connoisseurs, bursting with rare ornamentals and subtropical plants, and adorned with water-lily pools and fountains. The tourist office can also give you directions to other gardens around Menton, including the Fontana Rosa, the Villa Maria Serena, and the Villa Les Colombières.

The Lake District England

One of the great treasures of England is tucked away in the North-West of the country – the picturesque mountains, lush valleys, rocky peaks, moorlands and lakes, known collectively as the Lake District. Located entirely within the modern English county of Cumbria, and easily accessible by trunk roads, rail and ferry, “The Lakes” as they are commonly known, have been a popular tourist destination since the 17th century and have given inspiration to countless painters, writers and poets, most memorably William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. Others make the trip to enjoy the legendary Castlerigg Stones, an ancient circle of 38 stones made even more strikingly spectacular as they are entirely ringed by mountains to the north, south, west and east. Today, the area attracts a wide variety of visitors, from those seeking associations with great art and literature, to hikers, nature and wildlife enthusiasts, and those simply seeking the joy and serenity of one of the most beautiful areas in Europe.Lake District England

Against the backdrop of mountains and rocky fells – Old Norse for “mountains” – lie the jewels of the district – the 14 lakes themselves. Amongst them are Lake Wastwater, the deepest lake in England, and Lake Windermere, the longest. The Lake District, officially a National Park, also has the distinction of being home to the only parts of England that are higher than 3,000 feet above sea level, including Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England. Between the peaks are valleys of bracken and heather, forests and moorland. Wildlife flourishes, including several species unique in the country. These include the red squirrel, the country’s only Golden Eagles, and the Herdwick – a breed of sheep native to the Lake District. The pristine aspect of the area has been preserved through the centuries, despite human settlements. Today, most of those towns and villages in the district are directly involved in tourism, providing lodgings, meals, tours, guides and a plethora of information on the history and the natural wonders of the area.

As they have done since the mid-19th-century, many visitors to the Lake District are in search of places and sights associated with the poet William Wordsworth, who composed some of his most beloved works, including “Daffodils”, while residing at Dove Cottage, Grasmere. They also come to pay homage at the Beatrix Potter House. Potter made her home in the district, at Hill House by the shores of Lake Windermere, where the woods and wildlife provided the inspiration for her inimitable characters. In the 20th century, Sir Hugh Walpole so fell in love with the Lake District that he bought a house, Brackenburn, overlooking the Derwentwater Lake, and wrote a large number of his works while living there. Inspired by both past and present, modern-day artists and writers are among the most enthusiastic visitors to the Lake District, and can be seen, perched on an outcrop or settled by a lake, writing and painting as their predecessors have done for centuries.

Historically, the Lake District encompassed three counties – Cumberland, Westmorland and Lancashire. Today, however, the area is part of Cumbria, and sometimes known as the Cumbrian Mountains. It is easily accessible by highways and good roads, and driving tours are extremely popular. To the east lies the M6 motorway and other key roads cut across the district to the north and south, as well as from the coastal plains to the west. The A590 connects the M6 to the Lake WindermereLake District’s major town, Barrow-in-Furness. Three rail lines skirt the perimeter of the district, the West Coast Main Line, the Cumbrian Coast Line and the Windermere Branch Line. There are also narrow gauge railway links that connect tourists from the West coast with towns and hamlets within the Lake District and a small line, the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway that connects villages and tourists with a passenger ferry. For drivers, there is a vehicle-carrying ferry to take them across Lake Windermere and seasonal ferries on other lakes.

Within the Lake District National Park, visitors will find accommodations to suit any taste and pocket: Hotels, cozy cottages (including self-catering), bed-and-breakfasts, inns, and campsites – even hostels and barns! Whether looking for a charming English village, or a rustic retreat, the visitor will find a place to stay that provides the right ambience. A good place to start planning a Lake District vacation is at the official Cumbrian tourism website https://www.golakes.co.uk/. Spring and summer are the best times to visit, especially if visitors hope to explore some of the more remote trails and walks. Many visitors tend to combine a visit to the Lake District with other northern English attractions, and there is a useful map showing the proximity of the Lake District to other areas of interest at https://www.picturesofengland.com/nationalparks. The Pictures of England site also has lots of information for those who wish to explore other historic or picturesque parts of England as well. Google maps also offer an excellent map of England and all its regions.

Why Sicily is an Italian Paradise Worth Exploring

The splendid sights and sounds of Sicily are perhaps unlike anywhere else in the world. Situated off the lower tip of Italy, Sicily is a world unto itself. With mild Mediterranean weather and a pleasant year round climate this is one part of Italy worth visiting. Sicily is rather hilly and is part of a series of active volcano ranges. Perhaps the most well known of the Sicilian volcano’s is Mt. Etna, an active and quite moody volcano. map of SicilySicily is home to one of the biggest preserved natural ecosystems, the Nebrodi Mountains Regional Park. Within the park perimeter is the most expansive forest on the island, known as Caronia. This is an island rich and diverse with beautiful landscape, excellent food and wonderfully delightful local peoples. It only takes one trip to Sicily and the rest of Italy to be absolutely convinced that this is a little bit of heaven on earth. Let’s look at some of the wonders of Sicily.

Sicily is rich with agricultural rewards. The island with its highly fertile and rich soil is able to produce some amazingly delicious and nutritious vegetables and fruits. The quality of the soil can be directly attributed to its volcanic makeup, resulting from many successive eruptions of Mt. Etna, primarily. The extended hot humid growing season is another contributing factor to the exceptional produce the island is famous for. The chief crops on Sicily are grapes, olives, and citrus fruits. Almonds are yet another abundant product in this Italian wonderland. Some of the finest olive oils in the world originate from right in the heart of Sicily. Let’s not forget the wine, ah the wine. Italy is known for wine and this little island just off the coast of the mainland is no less an excellent wine producer. One of its hallmark wines is of course Marsala. This tasty wine originates from the heart of Sicily and is highly regarded as an excellent gourmet cooking wine.

Culturally, Sicily is perhaps second to few other places in the world. With an extensive history in art and sciences, this is a place for the serious art buff. One example of the wide diversity of art and culture on the island of Sicily is the Teatro Massimo. The Teatro Massimo located in Palermo is the biggest house of Opera in all of Italy and perhaps within the top few in Europe in terms of size. The mainland of Italy has a generous share of famous artists, but Sicily is equally blessed in this regard. One example in the area of painting is Antonello Da Messina, a highly respected Sicilian artist. There are also several notable Sicilian composers that have made a mark on music. A few of note are Salvatore Sciarrino, Vincenzo Bellini, and Giovanni Pacini. Italy in general is well known for famous artists, and Sicily shares equally in many of the artistic accomplishments of this great culture. The only way to truly know Sicily is to visit Sicily.

Perhaps more than any other subject, the subject of food, and really good food at that, comes up when talking about amazing Sicily. The majority of the local dishes found in this island paradise are derived form the local produce. Regardless of if we are talking about the fantastic wines, or the delicious fresh fruit and vegetables, one thing is certain, it is usually all fresh and local. Be it tomatoes, beans, fresh olives, or a host of other fresh fare, the food that is prepared is always out of this world. Add to that the wide selection of fresh local seafood and you have the recipe for some of the best tasting foods you can imagine. And let’s not forget desert. Ah desert, the deserts of Sicily are in a class all their own. The trademark desert of Sicily is of course the Cannoli, a fried shell with rich heavy ricotta cheese filling. Sometimes containing chocolate chips or nuts, this is a premier Sicilian desert dish. Try a Connoli one time and you will be sure to come back for more.

Getting around the island is easy with a multitude of transportation options. The primary airport is the Catania-fontanarossa Airport. This is a very busy airport situated along the eastern portion of the island. Train and water transportation is also well represented on the island and easy access. What is most amazing about beautiful Sicily is the people. The people of Sicily are genuine, warm and giving. They want to share with you, talk with you and become your friend. Everyone you meet it seems has a smile and a laugh to offer. It could perhaps be said that in Sicily, a stranger is but a friend you have not met yet. This is a fitting saying and holds true. Whether it is the food or the cultural mastery, or the genuinely warm people of Sicily, one thing you can be certain of is that you will love Sicily – and Italy in general. Visit the island world of Sicily and see what you have been missing. You may even learn a little bit of Italian. After all, being in Italy and not speaking Italian is like going to the beach and not swimming.

 

Andalusia: A Travel Destination To The Heart Of Spain’s History and Culture

Provinces of Andalusia
Map of the Provinces of Andalusia

Andalusia is one of the most prosperous of Spain’s seventeen autonomous communities. It’s also what most people think of when they think about the romance and mystique of Southern Spain. Apart from the fabulous fairs (ferias and fiestas) which take place beginning in April and extend into the fall, there are the historic provinces of Sevilla, Málaga, Almeria, Cadiz, Cordoba, Granada, Huelva, Jaenand and all that they offer tourists. Andalusia is home to a population of over eight million locals.

Lovers of music and dance will discover the passionate and seductive lure of Flamenco. This art form has flourished in Andalusia for over five hundred years. Flamenco purists can experience the best of this music and dance by attending a Pena flamenca. This is a meeting place or grouping of Flamenco musicians or artists that present the most traditional and purest form of the art without any particular interest in impressing tourists or making money. Be on the lookout for these local and regional celebrations when visiting Andalusia.

Those with an adventurous spirit that require something more than just beauty and art to get their adrenaline flowing can try watching an old world-style bull fight. The bull fighting season begins with the fairs in April and continues until mid-October. Bullfighting is Spain’s national sport and one that grows more popular each year. In addition to the actual confrontation between the bull and the bullfighter (matador), there is the spectacle of the event: Entrance of the bull, the picador (a pair of horsemen), the banderilleros (they plant little flags with barbed tips on the bull’s shoulders), and the matador.

The ferias (fairs) and fiestas (festivals) present the best way to experience Andalusian culture. One of the most popular is held annually in Seville, starts about two weeks after Easter Holy Week in April and lasts for six days. This event includes colorful parades with decorated carriages, people and horses in costume, amusement rides and lots of wonderful food and entertainment. If you visit Andalusia during the summer you are bound to run into any number of local fiestas held in every town and village. Fiestas are showcases which highlight the history and cultural of each place. These events give townspeople a chance to celebrate and share their heritage.

Regions of Andalusia
map of the regions of Andalusia

When it comes to food, you cannot visit Andalusia without sampling dishes made from their treasured legs of cured ham. Fish and shellfish are also beloved staples prepared in many different ways. Gazpacho (pescaito frito, locally) is hugely popular and a must eat for tourists. If you visit southern Spain, leave your diet behind. Deep frying is the preferred cooking method, but well worth the extra calories for once in a lifetime meals you just can find elsewhere.

Costa del Sol (Coast of the Sun) in the Málaga province is world renowned for its tourist appeal. Most people fly into Málaga airport and travel from there to the fabulous resorts located on the coast from Manilva to Nerja. This area is a surprising place that offers much more than just sun and beach. Amazing landscapes, Michelin Star restaurants, archaeological treasures, historic structures, traditional flamenco and a world class bio-park that has become a model for modern zoos give the active tourist many exciting choices.

Major roads map of Andalusia
Major roads map of Andalusia
History buffs will be sure to place Granada on their must-see list. Among the many historic locations and culturally-significant places to visit are Alhambra and Generalife. The Alhambra is a huge fortress constructed during the fourteenth century by Arab rulers of that time. This cultural treasure occupies the top of the hill of the Assabica on the South-Eastern border of Granada and remains one of Spain’s top tourist destinations. The Generalife is a palace surrounded by romantic gardens filled with beautiful flowers, exotic plants and fabulous fountains.

Among the seven million people that live in Andalusia are the almost seven hundred thousand Gypsies or Romani people. They bring a richness of music, culture and costume to the region. If you really want to experience traditional Gypsy music, dance and culture you must attend the Romería Nacional de los Gitanos or National Gypsy Pilgrimage. This annual event takes place in Cabra on the third Sunday in June. The celebration began in 1969 and was established to help unite far-reaching Gypsy communities throughout Europe, and to provide an opportunity for non-Gypsies to meet and bond with Gypsies so that both cultures can better understand each other.

Andalusia is a wonderful tourist destination that has much going for it. Spain loves children, so don’t be afraid to bring the kids. There are a wide variety of family friendly events that take place during the summer tourist season. Whether travelling with family, friends or on your own, southern Spain is a treasure trove of history, culture, music, art and unique cuisine that should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. For more info on Andalusia go here!

Traveling to Sofia Bulgaria

Sofia Bulgaria
Sights of Sofia

As the capital of Bulgaria, Sofia is a city with a population of well over one million residents. Situated in the western reaches of Bulgaria, Sofia is a city well worth the travel time to get there – you will marvel at its beauty. The city sits comfortably at the base of Mount Vitosha, and is a sightseeing treasure for anyone who enjoys adventure. Sofia is a culturally rich and diverse area with everything from ancient monuments to cutting edge high tech companies. It also happens to be the biggest city in the country of Bulgaria. Prepare to be amazed by the architecture as well as the extraordinarily friendly people that make Sofia their home. The city has a multitude of parks and greenbelts as well as many wonderful gardens. The parks and gardens come alive in the summer, with lush green landscape and lovely flowers blooming. The streets bustle with shop owners and intrigued tourists. The city gives you a warm and inviting sense of relaxing pleasure. Sofia, Bulgaria is a unique and special city in so many ways.

Sights of Sofia

The parks are especially wonderful and should not be missed. Borisova Gradina is one such park tucked away in the center of town. Culturally, Sofia is well represented, with such sites as the National Opera and Ballet. This wonderful venue is actually a combination ballet and opera house. In terms of the arts, the National Gallery of foreign Art is a must see while visiting Sofia. Yet another well-known art center is the National Art Gallery. Any one of these institutions will have you delighting in the arts for days on end. Sofia also is home to a number of international culture centers such as, the French Cultural Institute, the Italian Cultural Institute, the Russian Cultural Institute, and the Hungarian Cultural Institute, to name but a few. Sofia has so much to offer that it is hard to imagine seeing it all in a few days. One should think in terms of weeks when planning a visit to Bulgaria’s capital city. The sites and sounds of Sofia will keep you inspired and in awe as you see so much history in a city this size.

Getting around is quite easy and the abundance of public transportation makes sightseeing an easy task. Road and Rail are easily accessible and well organized. With over a half dozen different train stations, easy access to train service is assured. The largest of the stations is the Central Railway Station. The Sofia Airport is modern and centrally located. The city is also abuzz with a number of public transportation options. These include trolley busses, regular busses and trams. The main train service is the Sofia Metro with over a dozen stations citywide. Regardless of if you have your sights on the ancient monuments, the museums, the cultural centers or the lush parks, the city of Sofia is very easy to navigate. You will feel right at home in this pleasant and inviting place. And likely find yourself wanting to return for a second visit. If you are looking for opportunities to learn about history and art, this city can help you do just that – as it is rich in both.

Rail map of Sofia

rail map of SofiaSofia has produced some very well known names in the past, including Alexis Weissenberg (a well know and accomplished pianist), Evgenia Radanova (the world renowned ice skater), the gold and silver medallist in ice dancing, Albena Denkova, and Maria Gigova, a world champion gymnast. All these names and more are just one small reminder of how diverse and talented the people of Bulgaria really are. Beyond talented, the genuine people of this country are always eager to assist a friend or a neighbour. You can’t help but feel the friendly air of the city as you stroll through town. It is a place one could easily call home. It makes you that comfortable, and puts you immediately at ease to enjoy all that Sofia has to offer. Making travel plans to visit Sofia is one of the best options for an extended holiday. With easy access via airport, rail or road, there is every reason to visit Sofia, and little reason not to visit. Walking off the airplane, you will immediately sense that you have arrived in a gentle peaceful city.

With over a dozen colleges and universities, Sofia is no stranger to higher education. A diverse list of higher education institutions includes such names as Rakovski Defence and Staff College, Saint Clement of Ohrid University of Sofia, New Bulgarian University, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Arts, and the Technical University of Sofia. These schools are a testament to the great diversity that comprises the city of Sofia. In terms of sports, the Bulgarian Volleyball Federation is just one of the better-known sports represented in Bulgaria. With several large stadiums such as the Vasil Levski National Stadium and the Armeets Arena, there are plenty of sports always on tap in Sofia. When the time to plan a truly wonderful and meaningful holiday or vacation arrives, consider the delightfully exciting and rich city of Sofia. Once you have had a chance to know Sofia and all her charm, you will be compelled to return again and again. Sofia, Bulgaria is a city with few rivals, and now is a great to visit.

Map of the United Kingdom

map of the United Kingdom

This is without any doubt the most popular country in Europe. It also enjoys a remarkable popularity around the world. Its capital city is London and the official language here and in the entire kingdom is the famous English language. The United Kingdom has a remarkable population of over 60,100,000 people. This marvellous kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The kingdom is led by a queen.

Getting around London can be tricky if you are visiting the city for the first time. Make sure you get a map of the United Kingdom before going around. There are car rental services throughout the city and the kingdom as a whole. All the car rental services accept payments in sterling pounds which is the official currency. There are other car rental services that accept major currencies like the dollar and the euro. You can also get car rental services online any time you wish.

One of the most interesting things that attract people to the United Kingdom is the royal family. People study about it so much and most of them visit the kingdom to learn more about it. There are other great attractions especially in London that one cannot afford to miss during his or her time in the United Kingdom. The big Ben is one of them. It is a big city clock in the city that dates back to the toddler years of London. There is also the Thames River that runs across the city where tourists can enjoy boat rides as the river is wide enough to allow easy navigation.

For theatre lovers, the United Kingdom has the best theatres in the world. There are numerous theatres within London and other great cities in the United Kingdom. Sport lovers will also find a good place in London. The United Kingdom is home to the famous soccer English premier league.  The league is the most popular worldwide as the best clubs such as Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester united actively participate in the league. There are also other fun activities United Kingdom is known for. The London marathon for example, attracts more than 200,000 fans and as well as athletes each time it is held. It’s not all about sports as there are art galleries,museums,parks and zoos throughout the country. With all these places and activities, there is no doubt every tourist falls in love with the United Kingdom.

It is indeed a great idea to travel United Kingdom. But do take time to look for cheap flights. They are hard to find any time of the year but with a little patience or may be luck you can find a cheap flight at almost half price the normal charges. This mainly happens through airline offers and promotions that are so common during festive seasons. The cheapest airport to fly into is the Heathrow international airport in London which is open throughout the year except in times when the winter weather is too harsh.  During such times flights outside the kingdom may be delayed or even postponed. To avoid flight hitches and a wonderful time in the United Kingdom, always travel during summer or spring when everything is cool.

Map of Ukraine

We have added a map of the initial attacks by Russia on Ukraine. We will be updating this regularly as events unfold.

The country of Ukraine is located in the Eastern side of Europe. It offers some of the most affordable accommodations in Europe. If you are heading to visit this country, it is best to begin your travel in the city of Kiev. Start your holiday in the largest city in the country that can offer avid travellers with a variety of spots and attractions, which resulted from great cultural heritage and signs of economic progress. From Kiev, you can directly travel to one of the ultimate tourist destination in the country, the city of Crimea. You will enjoy the cool climate, fresh air and beauty of pristine beaches located in the peninsula region, along the coast of the Black Sea. This is something you should never fail to visit when scheduled for a travel in Ukraine.

Travel Ukraine and you will experience the architectural splendours brought by different churches and castles. Now, it becomes a destination on the crossroads between Central and Eastern Europe. This is where Carpathian Mountains are located. This place is suitable for fishing, hunting, skiing and hiking. Thus, this country is a perfect place for summer destinations for many avid travellers who want to experience adventure during their travel. However, if you are not an adventurous type of person, you can head toward inland. From there, you will see several spots that will surely get you fascinated. From ancient buildings to modern day structures, Ukraine can offer several attractions that are simply one of a kind.

Museums in Ukraine are the places where you can find historical treasures that belong to this country. Ukraine is country filled with historical sites and strong cultural heritage. Located in the city of Kiev is the Natural Art Museum, which displays a collection of painting, images and other priceless artworks. Several tourists, travelling through Odessa, known as the Pearl of the Black Sea will enjoy the opportunity of taking glances on different museums. If you want to go back to the history of this country, pay a visit to Odessa Regional History Museum. Historical items will captivate your attention. Other places that are worth spending your time and money while you are in Ukraine will include Lviv Glass Museum, Bulgakov Museum, Ukrainian Museum of Historical Treasures and the popular Ivan Franko Literary Memorial Museum. Whatever country you will come to visit, museums are usually one of the places that travellers have on top of their long list.

Based on the map of Ukraine, this country will offer you several attractions and spots that you should never fail to visit.  In the capital city of Ukraine, you will never get starve with so many restaurants around, which you can enjoy dining in. The foods that Kiev restaurants are serving become one of the city’s main attractions for visitors. As of today, the capital boasts over a hundred of restaurants serving several kinds of tasteful dishes. The restaurants are serving classical French, Chinese and Italian cuisines. Apart from having a good taste for food, Ukraine has been a popular destination spot because of the many architectural and modernistic designs that the country owns.

Map of Turkey

map of Turkey

Travelling across many countries in the world is a very enjoyable and interesting thing to do. Not all people have the chance to travel because of expensive airline tickets and considering the thousands of dollars you will be spending from hotel accommodation, car rental to food trips and shopping. For an avid traveller like you, looking for the best deal in an airline fare will somehow help reduce your expenses during the travel.

Give yourself a boost and travel Turkey. Pay a visit to the different hot spots and attractions all over the country. Getting there is made easier by booking your travel ahead of time. With just a few clicks over the internet, you will find over a hundreds of dates with a great deal of prices. By showing live dates from top travel websites, you can find one travel date that suits your budget and will correspond to your preferred travel time and date.

Looking at the map of Turkey, you will have various places to visit on. Ankara is actually the capital city of Turkey but Istanbul is really the heart of this astonishing country, which becomes one of the popular destinations nowadays. This city is the only one in the world to be located in both Asia and Europe, with the old and new districts separated by the Bosphorus strait. You can avail cheap flights to Istanbul and other destination places in Turkey like Adana, Dalaman, Bodrum, Konya and Izmir if you ride on one from these coastal airports. Be warned that ticket prices can get higher in June, July and August when the weather is at its hottest and school holidays is ready to begin.

Modern-day art is one of Istanbul’s cosmopolitan attractions. Classical antiques at the Archaeology Museum are one of the cultural inheritances, which give an immeasurable wonder to any tourist. Topkapi Palace museum, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, the Covered Bazaar, Galata Tower and Blue Mosque are just few among the many list of museums found in the great city of Istanbul. Pamukkale at the South-West of Turkey is a bathing place for thousands of years. Travellers are looking to visit this spot because of the healing properties it can give to the skin, health and total well-being. If you are destined to travel to this country, never miss the chance of looking into the cultural heritage that this country have. Turkey can be a great destination if you can find the best deal for airline tickets.

Known to be a remarkable country for wealth and treasure, you should consider this place for your next planned trip.  Book your trip early to benefit from discounts that airline companies are offering. In this country, you will see how Muslim and Christian forces opposed each other while both taking up the fast developing culture, which makes them stand out from other European neighbours. Turkey has been known as one of the most popular summer holiday destination. There have been more inquiries about Turkey than any other destination. The destination hotspots are not a huge surprise knowing that this country can offer you a lot, in terms of cheap flights and attractions.

Map of Switzerland

map of Switzerland

Switzerland is a true winter wonderland, just check a map of Switzerland if a skiing holiday is what you are after then there are few places in the world that offer better ski packages than Switzerland.

However summer holidays in Switzerland can be Just as fulfilling. The mild climate of the Swiss summer makes for a holiday to the glorious green Alpine foothills a truely rural escape. Thousands of holiday makers will take driving holidays around Switzerland, so renting a car and making for the Swiss border is an excellent option.

The railways around Switzerland are excellent and Eurorail passes are easily purchased from any train station. Infact a rail holiday around Switzerland is argueably one of Europes great holidays. Three train rides you must try are :

  • The Mount Pilatus railway the steepest railway from Lucerne to the top.
  • The Glacier ExpressSt. Moritz to Zermatt, which is a 8 hours travel in the Swiss Alps.
  • The Jungfraujoch railway Interlaken (560 meters) to the Jungfraujoch station (3450 meters) in few hours. And many more.

Flights around and to Europe are cheap these days. So booking a flight to Geneva, Berne or even Zurich is as easy going to your favourite online travel agent and making a few clicks. For a good choice of hotels with discount prices, visit Hotel Reservation in Bern for more information.

Here are some facts about Switzerland

Official name is the Swiss Confederation. It is situated in central Europe. Bordered by the countries : GermanyFrance and Italy. It is a landlocked country so has no Seas or Oceans bordering it The land mass is 41,285 km/squared and a population of approximately 7.8 million people. The capital city is Bern and the political system is a Federal republic, with parliamentary system and direct democracy. The official languages are German, French, Italian and Romansh.

Map of Sweden

map of Sweden Sweden is definitely one of the most common countries in the map of Europe. It has a population of over 9.3 million people. Its capital city is Stockholm. Swedish is the official national language of Sweden with only a few people within the country speaking English as their second language. The national currency in Sweden is the krona. Sweden is an active member of the European Union. It has been a member since 1995 and since then, it has taken part in major decisions made by the union. Sweden has one of the best tourist facilities for tourists who come to the country each year. Whether visiting the country for a short holiday or vacation, be sure to have fun. You will experience the best vacation or holiday of your lifetime in Sweden. There are good lodges across the country where spending a holiday or a vacation is ideal. All of them are affordable therefore; you do not have to worry about spending too much. Bookings to these lodges can be made online or through calls. Remember that, early booking attracts lower charges. Therefore, book early to save more money for that holiday or vacation you so much wish to spend in Sweden. There are parks, zoos, and lakes around the country where one can enjoy quiet times. For those who love indoor activities and games, there are museums, theatres and galleries where one can enjoy the greatest artistic creations in Europe and around the world.  There are also lawn tennis courts and indoor swimming facilities around the city where one can either play the games or take part as a spectator. For soccer lovers there are top rated soccer clubs that represent the country in the European soccer league. Whatever one enjoys doing, be sure to find a wonderful time in Sweden. Before taking that long flight from your country to Sweden, consider the weather condition you are going to find in Sweden. The country experiences the four major seasons of the year; summer, autumn, winter, and spring. Winter seasons in Sweden can be very cold and damp. If you are flying in during this season carry some heavy clothing or you will experience a hard time in Sweden.  Summers on the other hand are generally cool with little or no showers at all. This is a good season to fly into Sweden and feel the sun and the warmth it brings. Spring is the best season to consider flying into Sweden as everything during this season is cool. Before taking that flight back home, take time to walk around the city and in other popular places around Sweden. Travel Sweden and carry a map of Sweden with you and take your time to chat with the locals. They are very warm and receptive people with a strange love of their country and language. The only barrier that can come between you and the people is the language barrier factor. To avoid this ask your tour agency to provide you with a bilingual tour guide who can converse in both English and Swedish.

Map of Scotland

Scotland is like a magazine with amazing articles. You never get tired of it and only wish the end will never come. Scotland is no doubt one of the most common countries in the wide continent of Europe. Its capital city is called Edinburgh and is popular to many people around the world just as the country itself. The official language spoken in Scotland is English.

Before flying to Scotland, ensure you have enough information of the services you will need there. One of the most common services you will need is car rental services. There are numerous car rental services both in the city and outside the city. The car rental services are offered at competitive prices. To save money, visit online car rental services and compare prices. You can also book a car from any of the car rental services online and secure a nice car before you get to Scotland. You should also ensure that you have a travel insurance to take care of your stay in Scotland. This will keep you secure should you fall sick or lose your luggage. To find the best travel insurance, consult your travel agent and ask for extensive advice about the best travel insurance for a tourist.

There are numerous tourist attractions in Scotland. The most common one is the bag pipe. You will notice Scottish men playing bag pipes in Edinburgh and other cities skillfully. The bag pipe is arguably the best trade mark Scotland has. Then there are several Scottish whiskey distilleries. Wine and whiskey lovers will find the distilleries very interesting as the alcoholic drinks can be bought from their depots at amazingly reduced prices. Another great attracting is the Scottish ferries where you can take rides to islands like Aran and Shetlands. The islands are great for tourists as there is tasty seafood in all the islands. They are sold at affordable prices so you do not have to worry that you will spend too much on the seafood. For more information about all the tourist attractions in Scotland, consult your travel agent or check for any available information about Scotland online.

It is highly recommended that you know the weather you are going to find in Scotland once you get there. The country experiences the four weather season in a year; summer, autumn, winter and spring. The best time to fly to Scotland is during spring when almost everything can be done without the fear of the weather conditions. Summer is also good especially for scrubber divers or for any tourist madly in love with anything to do with the waters. Winter seasons are sometimes very cold so it is highly recommended that you carry heavy clothing to beat the cold if you intend to visit the country during winter. Note that, cheap flights are available during this season as there are fewer people flying to Scotland during this season.

When you travel Scotland, take a map of Scotland with you each time you visit any place in the country you do not know. This will come in handy should you get lost and will help you get around easily. Before you leave, take time to chat with the locals and know more about the Scottish culture. You will find that the culture has got more than just the famous kilts and the Scottish dance.

Map of San Marino

San Marino is one of the smallest countries you will ever visit. It has a population of over 25,000 people. Its capital city goes by the same name as the country, San Marino. It has a population of about 5000 people. The country has the oldest republic in the whole wide world, dating back to 301 A.D when it got its independence. Another interesting thing about this country is that you can tour the entire country in just 48 hours. This makes it even charming to any tourist as seeing every corner of a foreign country in the shortest time possible is an achievement many dream of.

There are cheap flights to San Marino throughout the year but getting them can be very challenging. The cheap flights are highly competitive and only come when there are promotions; festive seasons or when an airline is celebrating an anniversary. There are other ways through which you can get cheap flights most of which are only known to travel agents. The cheap flights will definitely save you money that you will probably use to have more fun during that vacation or holiday you so much hope to spend in San Marino.

There are hotels in the city and other parts of the country where tourists can eat and spend the nights. The city comes vibrant at night with many restaurants open to tourists and other night life lovers. During the day, the streets are filled with thousands of tourists sightseeing or simply buying souvenirs in the major gift shops around the small city. There are buses and cabs to get you around so you really do not really need to look around for car rental services. Bus tickets are affordable to both locals and tourists wishing to travel to any part of the country.

Before booking that flight to travel San Marino, ensure you have some knowledge of the weather condition you are going to find in the city and in the country as a whole. Like any other part in Europe, San Marino experiences summer, autumn, winter and spring. The best time to fly into San Marino is during spring when almost everything is cool. Summer is also a good season to travel to San Marino but there are so many tourists also flying in during this season. Winter seasons are not the best for anyone to fly into San Marino because of extremely cold conditions.

Take time to walk around the city to buy souvenir and stamps or visit art galleries. Take a map of San Marino to help you locate places easily or take a tour guide with you to shoe you around. If you like making friends or socializing be sure to find a wonderful time in San Marino. The locals are very welcoming and friendly people. You will notice nearly all of them show some kind of passion for their country and culture and are very proud of whatever they do.

Map of Russia

With an area that is almost twice that of the United States of America, Russia is definitely a country any tourist ought to consider as his or her dream destination for any vacation. Its capital city Moscow is one of the most industrialized cities in Europe and has residents not only from Russia but from different parts of the world. The official language spoken in Russia is Russian with a few people speaking English as their second language. Russia has been for a long time a European country involved in key European decisions probably because of its military might and developed economy.

There are cheap flights available to Russia from different parts of the world. However, getting them can sometimes prove to be a difficult exercise but with a little patience, one can easily get the cheap flights easily. Most cheap flights are available during festive seasons when there are discounts and promotions of flight tickets to Russia. It is during these promotions that you can easily secure the cheap flights. There are other ways one can secure cheap flights to Moscow but you have to be really patient in your quest for the cheap flights as some of them only come once or twice in a year

Tourist attractions in Russia are numerous and one may even have difficulties deciding where to go or where not to, especially if you do not have a map of Russia. Most of them are in the capital Moscow and other big cities like St.Petersburg. The Kremlin is one of the most common destinations to both local and international tourists. It serves as the official home of the Russian president and has some of the most beautiful gardens in Europe. A good travel map of Russia should show you al the best tourist spots.

Then there is the golden ring which is a group of cities north east of Moscow. The cities are prehistoric and played a major role in the formation of the Russian Orthodox Church. When it comes to listing all the attraction in this great country of more than 140,000,000 people one can easily get tired before reaching a quarter of the main attractions. More information about the attraction can be got from respective tourist travel agencies or tour websites.

Before you travel Russia, it is extremely important to know the weather one is going to find there. The country experiences the four main seasons on a year; summer, autumn, winter and spring. Winter seasons in Russia are always damp and wet. Sometimes the temperatures may reach negatives so it is highly recommended that you carry heavy clothing to beat the cold if you intend to visit Russia during this time. Summers are generally cool but sometimes the temperatures can reach very high limits. The best season to fly into Russia is during spring when the temperatures are moderate.

Whether you love indoor or outdoor activities you will never fall short of activities to do in Russia. There are museums, art galleries and theatres for indoor activity lovers in Russia. There are also parks and zoos for nature lovers in different parts of Russia where the nature lovers can taste what Russia has to offer when it comes to nature. Before leaving take time to chat with Russians. You will find it interesting that despite what people say about them they are very warm and welcoming. An Eastern Europe map will help you find it.

Map of Portugal

Portugal is sometimes considered Spain’s little brother. Although if you asked the Portuguese, they would hotly dispute this! However having said that, the Portuguese people have the same easy going manner as the Spanish and are friendly and generally happy to help out the lost tourist. Portugal is truly a great country to tour. A very modern country it boasts all the things you would expect from a civilised European country. Things like great roads, excellent railway network and fabulous mobile phone coverage.

Travelling Portugal can be very cheap as it tends to be overlooked compared to the bigger tourist centres such as Spain and France . This can be used to your advantage when booking hotels and flights and rental cars. As the Portuguese love to haggle. Mentioning that it was cheaper in some other country, can often fire up the competitive streak that is found in almost all Portuguese.

Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and is as cosmopolitan as any of the other cultural centres of Europe, such as Madrid, Rome or Vienna. It boasts a population of about a half a million people (545,245 population), which is small when compared to many other European capitals. It is still a big enough population base to give the city a wonderful international feel. However it is not to big to feel crowded and constricted. It is definitely one of Europe’s most liveable cities and with its growing financial centre, it is quickly becoming a city of the affluent.

Portugal being situated where it is, is one of the southern most countries in Europe and there fore experiences a very mild climate. Lisbon is known to have the warmest winters of any European capital city and the rest of the country follows Lisbon’s lead. It’s position within the European continent has often meant that rampaging armies have used it as a base to either attack northern Africa or as a staging place to attack Europe. This was especially so during the Muslim period when the Moors from northern Africa attacked Europe and reached deep into Portugal and Spain. They were eventually pushed out by the Christians however the Moors left a lot of influences on the Portuguese population that carries through to this day. This cultural heritage is wonderful and makes travelling through Portugal a joy as the food definitely has a Moroccan feel about it with lovely aromatic spices featuring heavily.

A good  map of Portugal is a must when touring this country. in these days of gps units, which are fantastic! It is nice to have a paper backup just in case. Even though the mobile/cell phone network is excellent you can not always get a signal as is the case in any part of the world, so you can’t rely totally on the internet for your directions. Have a  backup plan and the lack of worry will allow you to better enjoy your trip.

Map of Romania

How would you like to visit the famous Black Sea? In Romania, you will be able to visit this wonderful body of water which no other tourist spots could parallel with. The country is well known to be the place of origin of the famous Count Dracula. Moreover, the country has lots to show when it comes to nature endowed beautiful sceneries. The visitors surely love the attractive forest landscapes, churches which were built way back the medieval ages, historical gems and seaside villages.

Just like any country in Europe, you will be able to reach Romania by air, by road, rails and waters. You could avail of the cheap flights from the country’s national airline, the Tarom and Delta which directly flies from New York going to Bucharest. It would only take you about 3 hours and 20 minutes to reach Bucharest from London.

You could also avail of the country’s car for hire services from local and international firms which are rampant in the Bucharest airport. However, the government strongly implements the policy that the driver should be at least 21 years old. Moreover, it is advised that tourist should hire a package of car and driver service to prevent suffering from unpredictable driving.

Regarding the tourist’s accommodation needs, there are lots of hotels in the city which have the utmost capacity to deliver highly satisfactory convenience and comfort to the tourists. However, due to the heavy influx of tourists and visitors during some particular periods of the year, it is strongly advised to have an advance booking of the hotel suites. The costs of these accommodation services are relatively large given that the hotels are mostly rated with 5 stars. Nevertheless, the hotel management assures the customers with high quality of service and maximum comfort through its state of the art rooms and facilities. You could check in at Radisson Blu Bucharest, JW Marriott Grand, Intercontinental Bucharest, Grand Hotel Continental, Centre Ville Elite Aparthotel which are just some of the most common five-star hotels found in the country.

Some of the must be seen tourist spots in Romania include the Berca Mud Volcanoes, Carpathian Mountains, Ceausescu’s Palace of Parliamen, Bran Castle, the port of Constanta and the museum of history of Jewish community in Romania. In the country side of Romania, you will be able to witness the traditional practices which were preserved through the years as well as the wooden churches and wines. You can also engage in some outdoor activities such as cycling in the terrains of Romania. The trails are especially made for the cycling enthusiasts and biking lovers. Also, you should not miss going to the mountain lakes found in Retezat and Fagaras ranges. You will also discover the wonders inside the more than ten thousand caves found in Romania. You will find these beautiful and awesome tourist spots when you take a look at the map of Romania which is widely offered among the tourists.

Map of Norway

map of Norway

Being known for its beautiful mountains, fjords, and midnight sun, Norway is considered to be one of the prime tourist destinations nowadays. In fact, the Nærøyfjord and Geirangerfjord are just some of the well known fjords in Norway which has been featured in UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Upon travelling, you will see beautiful and overwhelming scenarios in the country’s mountains and glaciers.

Just like any other tourist hubs in the world, Norway has a lot to offer. For nature lovers, you would surely love engaging in activities such as skiing, rock-climbing, fishing given that the country possesses a kind of weather which suits best for these kinds of activities. You could also enjoy the beautiful sceneries found in the countryside.

You could reach Norway through the major airlines present in the country which include Norwegian Air Shuttle, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Ryanair and Widerøes Flyveselskap. Coming from London, you could reach Oslo within 2 hours and 15 minutes, Bergen in just 2 hours and 10 minutes, to Trondheim in 2 hours and 15 minutes and going to Stavenger will just take you 2 hours to travel by air. However, there is also a direct flight from New York going to Oslo which would take you 7 hours and 30 minutes to travel. You could also get to Norway by rail, by road or by water. If you are with your entire family in taking a vacation in Norway, it is best advised to acquire travel insurance for your family’s sake.

You need not to worry about car rental for they are actually rampantly available in the airports as well as in main town of Norway. Since this service is relatively expensive, you may take the bicycles for hire services.

With regard to accommodation, you could also avail of the discounts being offered by some of the first class hotels in the country during summer and weekends. However, if you opt for a nature-friendly accommodation, you could have offsite camping. For those who had been run out of slots in the hotels, they could stay in guest houses and rorbu, a cottage used by fishermen during winter season. These rorbus are often found in Lofoten Islands.

In the map of Norway, you will find lots of potential tourist destinations. The country’s wild wilderness is a great venue to engage in hiking, cycling and jet skiing. In fact, Norway is considered to be the best place to play winter sports such as alpine and cross country skiing. To travel Norway would surely be an unforgettable experience for you and you family given that you get to engage in a lot of exciting family activities.

You would also love some of the Norwegian cuisines which include lukket valnøtt, a kind of cream cake, and geitost, a goat’s cheese.
If you have gone to Norway, you should not miss attending some of Norway’s best festivals which include North Norway Festival which is a month long celebration portraying the country’s culture. It is said that the people from Norway are considered the tallest among the Europeans. Also, it is claimed that the Scandinavian countries which include Norway, Finland and Sweden are considered to have the fairest complexion in Europe. If you visit Norway, it is advised to bring large bucks of money for the services offered are relatively expensive.

Map of Netherlands

The Netherlands (Holland) has mild maritime climate, so even in winter you do not get the low harsh temperatures like you do further in land. This allows for quite a strong tourist industry. Amsterdam is definitely the center of the holiday trade in the Netherlands. History and charm are available by the bucket load in Amsterdam. You can take canal cruises, which are tourist throw back to yester-year, visit the museums including the following Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and of course Anne Franks House. Amsterdam Walks, being Such a compact city, it is easy to walk and discover it’s heritage, Cafe Culture and much more.

Dutch history is so intertwined with the sea, that you can hardly talk about the Netherlands without in someone way touching on their seafairing past. It has been a love hate relationship with sea. The famous dykes keep the sea out are legendary and the picturesque and have often been breached by mother nature with devastating results. Rows of equally famous windmills lazily turn their massive sails ion the breeze to help keep the land dry are everywhere and are a must to see on any Dutch holiday.

However Netherlandsis a true winter wonderland. Skiing is now very established and so are most of the other winter sports. Truly experience a white Christmas, those same Alps that offer such wonderful bush walking and natural adventure during summer become some of Europes best ski resorts.

Although flights to Netherlands are cheap, you will still want to have Travel Insurance to cover any possible problems that might arise. Knowing that any eventuality will be covered by your insurance allows you to enjoy your holidays without the worry of always thinking what would happen if you lost your luggage. Being able to book a hotel if your cheap flight is cancelled is a real bonus.

Here are some facts about the Netherlands

Official name is the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is situated in North West Europe. Bordered by the countries :Belgium and Germany . It is bordered by the North Sea. The land mass is 41,848 km/squared and a population of approximately 16.6 million people. The capital city is Amsterdam The political system of the Netherlands is a Parliamentary democracy under a constitutional monarchy and the official language is Dutch.

Map of Moldova

Moldova: The Forgotten Travel Destination

Rich in fertile soil and history which produces plenty of vineyards, Moldova is one of Europe’s forgotten travel destinations. In this country is found vast monasteries, trek through its ancient forests and taste its local wines.

Geography and Map of Moldova

Moldova is located at the Eastern Europe and Northeast of Romania which has a total of 33,843 sq km of land area. Compared to a state in the U.S. it is slightly larger than the state of Maryland.

People in Moldova

Moldova has a total population of 4 440 000. Although the country is highly populated, it has a few large cities and the most valuable is the capital city called Chisinau. They have different ethnicity and the majority of them are the ethnic Moldavians. Some are Ukrainians, Russians, Bulgarians and more. Christianity is the predominant religion and some of them are Muslims. The people in Moldova are known to be hospitable and friendly and the capital city has much to offer to any visitor.

Then there are the mouthwatering seafood and drinks that have distinct tastes and flavors experienced nowhere else in the world. They are available in all the big hotels and restaurants in Moldova at affordable prices. They can be enjoyed on the beach with cool breeze or one can make an order for room service and enjoy the delicacies in his or her own privacy. With such a nice treatment, one feels like a king or queen and may easily think of extending his or her days in the wonderful island of Moldova. This happens to most tourists or others go and fail to resist to the temptation of coming back. To them, Moldova is a home away from home.

The Weather and Climate of Moldova

The republic of Moldova has a temperate continental climate located approximately halfway between the North Pole and the Equator. The country’s four seasons are defined clearly, winter is warm and summers are long accompanied with lots of sunny days. Winter is moderate, some days it may fall. Spring is not stable compared to the number of sunny days. Summer is lasts long and is really hot. When summer rains occurs, it is usually heavy, causing local flood. Autumn is warm and long and may bring the first frosts and snowfalls.

4 Best places to go when you travel Moldova:

  • 1. Chisinau is the capital city of Moldova which has very modern green and the most comfortable town in the heart of the country. The trip here includes going to the historical center of Chisinau, the administrative and the cultural establishments on the main blvd called Stefan cel Mare which is the main square of the General National Meeting, churches and museums, 2 central parks, market of souvenirs and Central Market. The whole duration of the excursion is about 3-4 hours.
  • 2. Crivoca and Miletii Mici wine cellars- This spot is known to be the biggest underground wine cellars across Europe. Its wine factory and collections are found in tunnels made out of limestone forming an underground wine city. It has motor streets which are named from its famous brands of wine namely Shardonait, Cabernet, Sauvignon, Feteasca and more.
  • 3. Soroca town- This is visited for its historical importance during the medieval period for its defense system against the invasion of the polyaks, tartar, ottomans, Cossacks, and the Slavs coming from the East.
  • 4. Saharna Monastery complex – This spot is a must-see for its historical and natural wonders. It may take up to 6 to 7 hours to tour around the place.

Map of Malta

Malta is a country of Europe made of three small islands. It has a population of over 300,000 people and the capital city is Valletta. The three main islands that make up Malta are Malta, Gozo and Comino. Each one of these islands is small but magnificent in its own way. Malta’s official languages are Maltese and English. The terrains of the three islands are low and almost plateauflat. The country has a republican form of governance led by the president. Though small in both size and population, Malta is an active member of the European Union and takes part in making key decisions of the union.

Getting cheap flights can be challenging for anyone thinking of flying to Malta. The only way you can come across a cheap ticket to travel Malta is during the rare times airlines mark celebrations or during festive seasons where there are offers and flight tickets rates are greatly reduced. An important thing you have to ensure you have is a good insurance travel cover. This will take good care of you should anything happen during the time of your journey. With good travel insurance, you can be sure you are in safe hands no matter what happens.

There are so many activities to be enjoyed in the Malta islands. With a map of Malta in your hands, you will be ready to explore. Nearly everything about the three islands is music to one’s ears. You can surf on the blue waters or bas in the caressing golden summer sunshine. For those who enjoy under water adventures and activities, there are divers who can help you have a memorable time scuba diving. There are also wonderful coastal games that can be enjoyed in the beach like the beach soccer or the beach volley ball. With all these activities and even more, one only wishes the vacation could last a lifetime.

Then there are the mouthwatering seafood and drinks that have distinct tastes and flavors experienced nowhere else in the world. They are available in all the big hotels and restaurants in Malta at affordable prices. They can be enjoyed on the beach with cool breeze or one can make an order for room service and enjoy the delicacies in his or her own privacy. With such a nice treatment, one feels like a king or queen and may easily think of extending his or her days in the wonderful island of Malta. This happens to most tourists or others go and fail to resist to the temptation of coming back. To them, Malta is a home away from home.

Weather and Climate in Malta

It sure was great to know the best scenic spots around Malta, but what is the perfect time to enjoy those tourist destinations? Prepare yourself by finding out the expected weather at the time of your planned vacation to Malta. Between the months of May to October are the best times to visit Malta. These are the warmest and among the driest seasons of the year. The usual temperature during summer is 73 degree Fahrenheit or 23 degree Celsius yet you may need some sweater at night. Winters here are extremely cold often drizzly, windy and snowy, most especially in the north and its interior. It snows much during winter which may cause some delays on your travel.

Before leaving take time to chat with the locals. They are good people to talk to and interact with. If you are a passionate about making new friends or meeting new people, then you will definitely have a wonderful time in Malta. One thing you will notice about all the locals is the passionate love they have for their country and culture. As you leave you will begin to feel some form of emptiness that comes as a result of detaching yourself from a paradise. Each time you will have the map of Europe in your hands, you will notice Malta quicker than any other European country.

Map of Macedonia

Macedonia, where the sun shines forever according to the song is exactly the description of this country where the sun always shines in the Balkans’ scenic heart. Travel Macedonia and experience the hospitality of its people who loves music, dances and have fun. They simply know how to make their guests feel at home.

Macedonia, also known as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia is quite visited because of its low economic and social status within the community of Europe.

Geography

Macedonia is located at the South Eastern Europe and the north of Greece. The Map of Macedonia references Europe and can be compared to a state in the U.S. It is slightly larger than Vermont.

3 Key Destinations in Macedonia

If you plan to go overseas, make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance to prepare for any worst things that may happen on your way. Taking this approach would prevent any nasty situations like medical or hospital bills during your holiday trip.

It has not been long ago since the Western Europeans have discovered this hidden treasure in the east. Although Macedonia has struggles to survive in terms of its economic and political status, tourism has never been compromised.

These are 3 of the most popular destinations to travel Macedonia

  • The Monasteries – It is quite a surprise that Macedonia has the affluence of historical monasteries scattered all over the country. Their monasteries are remains of the Orthodox Christian belief dating back to 1000 A.D. Although the Sveti Jovan Bigorski monastery has been affected by a fire last 2009, majority of it stands unaffected.
  • The Lake Ohrid – The crystal clear, blue green waters of this splendid lake is just the right place to visit. The township being located on the border of Macedonia and the eastern part of Albania has been developed into a mecca for German tourists whose looking for a more reasonable deal compared to the more expensive destinations in the Mediterranean coastline.
  • The Strumica – This adorable town is the largest in the Eastern part of Macedonia which has an eclectic array of old monasteries, modern bars and cafes, and architectural remains of the flamboyant Middle East. The place can be associated with some parts of Paris, without much expense. This makes a fun and luxurious holiday without breaking the bank.

Weather and Climate in Macedonia

It sure was great to know the best scenic spots around Macedonia, but what is the perfect time to enjoy those tourists’ destinations? Find out the weather and climate of the country for you to know when you will book your vacation in Macedonia. Between the months of May to October are the best times to visit Macedonia. These are the warmest and among the driest seasons of the year. The usual temperature during summer is 73 degree Fahrenheit or 23 degree Celsius yet you may need some sweater at night. Winters here are extremely cold often drizzly, windy and snowy, most especially in the north and its interior. It snows much during winter which may cause some delays on your travel.

Gastronomy

Aside from key tourist spots, each traveller wants to experience the best cuisines of any countries they visit. Macedonia’s cuisine combines Mediterranean and Balkan traits that have been largely inherited from Turkish taste prevailing from the centuries of Ottoman rule. Some dishes include Masnic, or a pastry rolled into spiral with some fillings like pumpkin, sweet potatoes or cheese. Slatki is also known to be one of the best bread filled with Burek and cheese.

Map of Luxembourg

Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the entire continent of Europe. It has a population of the slightly above 500,000 people. There are two main languages spoken in Luxembourg which are French and German. English is spoken by only a handful of the locals who study it as a second language. An interesting thing most people do not know about Luxembourg is that it is the founding member of the European Union. This gives the country all the right reasons to be popular not only around Europe but also around the world as well.

For those who choose Luxembourg as their holiday destination, it is important to note that cheap flights to Luxembourg are hard to get. There may be cheap flights from the country or to other places within the country but all these depends on a number of factors especially the weather. Cheap flights can be found especially during the winter as most tourists do not fly to Luxembourg because of the cold weather. However this trend slightly changes towards Christmas when people take flights to celebrate Christmas away from their home countries.

One of the most incredible things any tourist will love about Luxembourg is the white wine. This among other things sells out Luxembourg to the world and put it on the map as a great wine source. There are several wineries across Luxembourg so it is easy to sample a variety of white wines. Nearly all the meals taken in Luxembourg are accompanied by any form of wine. For any wine lover, be sure of craving for more and more days in Luxembourg.

There are several art galleries around the major cities of Luxembourg where art lovers can view or even buy artistic pictures and decorations. One can also spend time at museums and theatres where many other locals spend their time. Theatre lovers are sure to find more than enough theatres across Luxembourg. Unfortunately, most of the plays stages in these theatres are in French or German so it may be extremely hard to enjoy the performances in a language one does not understand. There are only a few plays most of which are in schools or art center for the purposes of teaching students and other learners the English language and its day to day usage.

Accommodation is readily available for anyone at competitive rates. Unlike other countries in Europe, there are only a few guest houses in Luxembourg. Most of them are expensive so the best places are to spend nights are either in big hotels or lodges. To secure a nice place for your vacation, make early booking online or through you travel agency. This way, you will be assured of decent but affordable places to spend your nights. Before leaving the country, spend some time in the capital city of Luxembourg. The locals are friendly people, and fun talking to. If you like meeting people, socializing or just making friends, be sure to travel Luxembourg and leave the country with more than a souvenir and a map of Luxembourg.

Map of Lithuania

Lithuania is known to be a country with colorful history. Located at the eastern part of Europe, the country has successfully shoved between the Russian pillar and Nazi post; stunning the world, having won its independence from Soviet Union.

Geography

The map of Lithuania shows that it is located on the coast of Baltic Sea. It is divided into four regions: the highlands which is located in the northeast and central part of the country; the lowlands in the west, southeast and the southwest.

Vilnius is the capital city which is located in the south western part of the country.

People

The people in Lithuania are called Lithuanians although there are other races like Polish and Russians who has permanently moved to the country. Their dialects are Russian, Polish and other unspecified languages but the majority speaks Lithuanian which is the official dialect in the country. Their religion also varies, most of them are Roman Catholic, others are Russian Orthodox, and some are Protestants and other unknown religions.

The Weather and Climate in Lithuania

If you want to travel Lithuania, the best time to go is between the month of May and September, when the temperature during daytime ranges from 70s Fahrenheit or 20-25 degree Celsius and the nights usually ranges from 40 to 60 degree Fahrenheit or 4 to 15 degree Celsius. During the month of January and February are the coldest months in the country

The are modes of transportations around Lithuania:

  • Land transportations includes buses, Car and motorcycle and train
    • Bus – There are international bus companies like Eurolines and Ecolines which has offices in Vilnius and some other main cities in the country. There are couples of buses that go to many European cities every week including German cities and London with a daily bus going to Berlin.
    • Car and Motorcycle – If you come from the South, you’ll wait for about 30minutes to an hour at the two Polish border crossings.
    • Train – The city of Vilnius is connected by regular direct trains going to Moscow, Kaliningrad, St Petersburg, Warsaw and Minsk.
  • Boat – Klaipeda is the major port for all international ferries that bounds for Lithuania.
  • Air – Kaunas is the destination for cheap flights but most tourist do not linger there for long and hops in a car rental, taxi or bus immediately to go all the way to Vilnius which is 1 hour drive away.

Top 3 Travel Destinations in Lithuania

Lithuania has numbers of tourist’s destinations any traveller would not dare to miss. These are the top 3 travel destinations in Lithuania: The Zarasi Region – The place is popular for its exquisite forests and lakes impressing every visitor with the rareness, flamboyance and diversity of its nature. Bending and twisting rivers, blue lake patches scattered all around with peaceful woods which makes it the main attraction of the region.
The Nemunas River Delta Regional Park- This spot is located in the south-west of the country; an award-winning attraction being able to protect its natural wonders. This was formed after massive glaciers have melted after the Ice Age.
Plateliai – The place is in the north-west of Lithuania and has been awarded for its excellence in maintaining its intangible heritage.
Overall, the country is the best destination for nature lovers. When you are up to a European cruise or holiday travel, go straight to Lithuania and get ready for an ultimate nature experience. No wonder why they call it Europe’s best kept secret.

Map of Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein is called the jewel at the pulse of Europe. The country is like a page turner novel, very interesting and exciting; you cannot put it down.

It is squeezed between Switzerland and Austria which offers skiing, wine tasting, bird reserves and a lot more. The map of Liechtenstein has summer and winter view for the travelers to be guided according to the weather. When you examine the map, you will find out how small the country can be, but it is worth paying a visit. Tourists usually go here after traveling around Switzerland and Austria.

Considering that Liechtenstein is only about 62 square miles, town hopping activities would not be a big deal as the car rental services are amazingly cheap.

The people
Liechtensteiners are mostly Alemannic , some of them are Italian, and Turkish. In terms of Religion, the majority of them are Roman Catholic, some are Protestants and the other small percentage has different religions. Most people speak German and others are Alemannic.

5 Best Destinations to Travel Liechtenstein

  • The Prince of Liechtenstein’s wine cellars – First in line is the best wines and incredible hospitality which makes it the best wine tasting experience you can never forget. There are signs around the vineyard displaying how the grapes are made from a vine to wine. Their wines are simply fit for a king which is a perfect gift to someone really special. The wine cellars are located in its capital city called Vaduz. They are open from Mondays to Saturdays.
  • “Visiting Vaduz with Goethe” – This activity is quite an experience if you are a literature lover. Walking in an author’s footsteps is something as good as paradise. The experience trail takes each visitor on a journey through culture, art, history, architecture and gastronomy.
  • Birka Bird Paradise- Witness the rare bird species from across the globe which includes macaws, amazons, parakeets, peacocks, parrots, and baby birds. There are rare amphibians and plants on the display. Every visitor is encouraged to experience this one-of-a-kind nature experience. The facility is always open and admission is completely free.
  • The Galina factory- This place gives a chance to every visitor to personally see falcons, eagles, eagle-owls and hawks up close.
  • Malbun Ski Resort – Malbun is the key ski resort of Liechtenstein which has ski and snowboard schools. Every ski enthusiast, from beginners to advance will enjoy the experience. Aside from skiing, the resort also features hiking and mountain climbing opportunities.

There are other cool places to visit outside the town and more information about such places can be found at the Liechtensteinn tourism board official website. To sum up your visit in Liechtenstein take a walk around the city and socialize with Liechtensteinns. You will realize they are all passionate about their country and are receptive than most other nationals across the entire continent of Europe.

Weather and Climate

When you travel Liechtenstein it is important to learn its weather. Although summer is always perfect to visit the country, it is also a promising place to visit during winter if you are into skiing. Liechtenstein has a temperate, alpine climate with warm and wet summers and mild winters. The average temperature of the country ranges from -1 degree Celsius in the month of July and the average precipitation every year is 1,000 mm and is evenly distributed the entire year.

Required Clothing

Clothes that are medium weights with lightweight are best during summer. Heavy weights or warmer clothes are worn during winter and waterproofs are necessary over the entire year. Whether you go to Liechtenstein just to have an additional stamp on your passport, the country has as much to offer in terms of tourism. Next time, add up Liechtenstein on your Europe getaway list.

Map of Latvia

Completely different from its past soviet image, the modern day Latvia is refreshingly breathtaking and a must visit to any serious traveller. It is a European country whose capital is Riga. Latvia is a former member of the USSR but unless told you will hardly notice that fact. It has an estimated population of over 2,353,854 as of July 1999. The main languages spoken in Latvia are Lettish, Ukrainian and Russian. Only a few people speak English as their second language.

Transport within the country is not tricky with rail and road transport being the most common means in all the cities of Latvia. You can easily get around with a map of Latvia. There are several car rental agencies in all the cities at affordable rates. Other car rental services are available online while others are not. Getting a good car rental for your vacation or holiday is not that hard as some travel agencies provide free information about the best car rental services in Latvia.

The weather in Latvia changes according to the four main seasons: summer, autumn, winter and spring. Winters in Latvia can be extremely cold so if you are planning to visit Latvia during winter, make sure you carry heavy clothing to beat the cold. Summers are normally cool with little or no showers at all. The best time to travel Latvia is during spring when everything is cool and calm. Due to high number of tourists flying in during summer, cheap flight tickets may be a bit high so it is advisable to fly in during winter or spring when you can easily get cheap flight tickets

There are numerous tourist attraction in Riga and other small towns and cities. A good example is the town of Sigulda which has a population of about 10000 people. It is near the capital city, Riga and is commonly known by Latvians as the winter capital of Latvia. The town experiences cool and damp weather conditions throughout the year as it is on altitude. Its warmest months are July and august which are the most appropriate months to visit the town.

For nature and animal lovers, Gauja national park is a must visit. Here you will enjoy the best time of your life thanks to the rich flora and fauna features the national park offers. The park is ideal for hiking, bird watching and nature walks. It is open throughout the year with only a few times when proper management of the park needs to be done. Different tour agents charge different rates for a trip around the park. Alternatively you can consult a car rental service and visit the park by yourself.

There are other cool places to visit outside the town and more information about such places can be found at the Latvian tourism board official website. To sum up your visit in Latvia take a walk around the city and socialize with Latvians. You will realize they are all passionate about their country and are receptive than most other nationals across the entire continent of Europe.

Map of Ireland

Ireland is no doubt one of Europe’s most famous countries. It is like an art book with magnificent photos and snaps. You never get tired of feeding your eyes with the beautiful places throughout the cities and towns in Ireland. The capital city of Ireland is Dublin where diverse people from around the world live. Any tourist will have an easy time in Dublin as the official language here and the rest of the entire country is English. The city has a good transport and communication network and is one of the best maintained cities in the entire continent of Europe.

An extensive Travel insurance is one of the key travel necessities you need to travel Ireland. With good travel insurance, you will be assured of a good holiday or vacation throughout your stay in Ireland. In case you lose your luggage or fall sick, the travel insurance will take good care of you. You can always find a good travel insurance through you travel agency or through your attorney who will advise you of the best travel insurance. There are also sites that offer free advice to tourists who wish to apply for travel insurance. The bottom line here is, a travel insurance gives you confidence that you are in safe hands should anything unplanned event occur.

There are more than enough tourist attractions throughout Ireland. With a map of Ireland, you will be all set to go. The trinity college is one of them. It is a college established years ago and some of the world’s renowned scholars and professors studied here. Then there is the national gallery of Ireland where art lovers will certainly feel at home. The gallery has magnificent artistic works and inventions which are only exclusive to Ireland only. The phoenix park is a must visit to any nature lover visiting Ireland. It is the only place nature lovers can see for themselves what Ireland can offer in terms of flora and fauna. The list is endless so you can consult your travel agency for more information about Ireland tourist attractions.

The weather in Ireland is friendly and no doubt anyone will fall in love with the weather conditions here. The country experiences the four common seasons like any other country in the map of Europe. The common seasons being summer, autumn, winter and spring. Spring is the best season for anyone to visit Ireland as the temperatures are cool and almost everything else is cool. Winters are normally wet and damp with sometimes very low temperatures. The summer season is also a good season to visit Ireland. There is sunshine to enjoy with little or no showers in the afternoons.

Before leaving the country, take time to walk around the city and chat with the locals. You will note interesting things about them that other Europe and do not have or never show at all. Nearly all Irish men and women have a passion for their country that other Europeans do not have. They love their culture and language more than anything else.

Iceland

Iceland is a country in Europe widely known for its beautiful glaciers and unmatched anywhere else in the world. It has an estimated population of over 300,000 people as of 2009. The language spoken in Iceland is Icelandic with a few other dialects in the small towns. Its capital city is known as Reykjavik and is much smaller in both population and size compared to other big European cities like Rome and Paris.

There are numerous places to spend your vacation or holiday but first you must grasp some travel facts before packing your bags. The best places for you to travel Iceland are found outside the cities where there are serene environments to be enjoyed throughout the day. If flying to Iceland for a short holiday, you can spend it anywhere as you will be there only for a short time. Always remember to have with you a good travel insurance cover as it is the only form of protection you can have away from home.

The main currency in Iceland is the kroner. You can always change your currency to the kroner from most local and international banks at competitive exchange rates. This is always important as most places accept payments only in the kroner. There are a few places where payments can be made in other major currencies but one should not rely on such places as things can change any minute.

Tourist destination are more than enough in Iceland and with a map of Iceland with you, you can get confused with where to start from. There are lakes, rivers, beautifulglaciers and awesome to look at waterfalls in different regions of the country. The longest water fall in Iceland is the Botnsa waterfall in Glymur falling at a remarkable height of 190 meters. The tallest mountain is Mount Hvannadalshnjúkurstanding at 2119 m. the largest glacier is the Vatnajökull glacier stretching 8300 km2 wide. These are just but a few tourist destination sites in Iceland. More information can be found at the Iceland tourism board.

Iceland experiences the four common seasons like any other European country. They are summer, autumn, winter and spring. Summers are generally cool and sunny with little or no showers at all. Winter on the other hand are very cold and can be extremely wet and damp sometimes. Spring is normally the best season to travel to Iceland as you can have the best time around with little or no fears of the weather.

If you do not enjoy sightseeing or travelling around the country, there are good theatres and museums in the city where you can have wonderful time by yourself and other theatre lovers. You can also go skiing or take a walk around the city and interact with the city dwellers. Some of them understand English and can converse pretty well with you in broken or perfect English. Language should be the least of your worries as most tour guides speak good English and can help you with the conversations. If you want to travel Europe then you can’t miss out Iceland as part of this experience.

Map of Greece

Greece is considered the tourism capital of Europe. Situated on the Confluence of the Aegean, Mediterranean and Ionian seas, Greece has a history and culture that is steeped in its maritime past. As a result all of Europe and much of the rest of the world holidays in Greece. However this domination of the tourist dollar is being chipped away at by countries like Spain, Italy and even Croatia.

Things to see and do in Greece

Greece offers many types of vacations. Group Vacations If you are young and looking for fun then Greece can cater for you. Young people, group travel packages and backpacking packages are well represented in Greece. However pre-booking is not always essential, especially if you are coming before the beginning or after the end of the main tourist season. These types of spontaneous holidays can often be more rewarding, especially to the younger traveller who is willing to put up with a little bit of hardship. As a bonus these types of trips can be cheaper. Historical travel – Greece has a long and well documented history. Much has been bequeathed to the modern world by the ancient Greeks. Mathematics, logic, democracy, drama, philosophy, medicine, the Olympics, justice system, the study of history (Herodotus) are some examples. Many of the sites and towns were these fundamentals of modern life were developed are still in use or are ancient monuments that can be visited. Very few countries can match Greece for this type of historical tourism. Some ancient sites that must be visited are below

  • The Parthenon (Acropolis) which is located in Athens.
  • Temple of Delphi which is located at the Southern slopes of Parnassos, near the modern city of Delphi.
  • Olympia is the birth place of the Olympic games and is situated at the western end of the Peloponnese peninsula. However almost anywhere you go in Greece there is an ancient monument or ruin.

The Greek Isles– We cannot talk about Greece without mentioning the islands. The beaches and views on the islands of Greece are some of the most amazing on earth. Few things on earth create more wonder in the human mind than sitting on a hotel balcony in Santorini and looking across the great caldera to the still very active island of Thera. It is one of those life experiences that can change you. The real threat of danger posed by the steaming volcano, contrasted with the peaceful surrounding of the island itself leaves a real impression on ones soul. Other islands, in no particular order as they are all spectacular and have their own charm are,

  • Mykonos – known for its lively night life.
  • Corfu – wonderful historical sites and lively night and day life.
  • Rhodes – Shaped like a spearhead it is one of Greece’s largest islands.
  • Crete – The largest and most populous of the Greek isles.

There are many more and some of the littler ones are real gems, so search them out to complete that holiday of a lifetime.

Travelling around and to Greece

Getting to Greece is easy there is any number of airlines offering cheap flights to Athens. However if you have the time then a driving holiday is a great way to experience the wonders of this great nation. Car rental is relatively painless in Greece; all the larger established car rental companies have a presence here. Even when island hoping, a car is a good option. Most of the islands are serviced by large passenger and car ferries and although the roads on some of the islands can be a little rough, in general the roads and byways of Greece are well maintained. make sure you get a good road map of Greece.

Some interesting facts about Greece

The capital is Athens. Greece has a population of 11.3 million people and a land mass of a 132,000 square kilometres. It is bordered by the countries of Albania, Republic of Macedonia, Bulgaira and Turkey, 

Map of Finland

Finland. It is the home of Nokia, Santa Claus, and the only country in the world that broadcasts its news in Latin!… And it is better seeing the place than just reading about it! When you travel Finland, its wonderfully eclectic culture and biodiversity can fascinate even the most fastidious of travellers!

Finland is situated in the northern part of Europe, and a map of Finland will reveal the country to be richly blessed with lakes and other bodies of water with more than 180,000 lakes! It even houses Europe’s fourth largest lake, Saimaa. It’s a Nordic country and it is officially known as the Republic of Finland, and its long history reveals that this water- laden country used to a part of Sweden. The country is largely agrarian, and its forest is one of the major sources of income, hardly surprising, really, with approximately more than 70% of Finland covered in trees and shrubs! It’s a veritable wilderness that is as strong as the spirit of the country is represents! Despite of its forests and mirror- smooth waters, it’s a nation whose bustling capital is as technologically advanced as the rest of the world!

Going to Finland on a holiday or vacation will be worth all the time and effort; one can feel the serenity and revitalizing atmosphere so much that all the stresses and hassles of everything you have left behind on another country just drains away. Take a trip to Lemmenjoki National Park and Oulanka National Park and hike through their treks, you’ll really appreciate the beauty and power of nature in the imposing heights of the conifers and clarity of the lakes, you’ll even get to see Finland’s national Bird, the Whooper swan!

For those who simply cannot let go of the city nightlife and all its excitement, then Corona Bar & Ka?e Mockba might just be the place for you! It is located in the city centre and is run by two of the most unique film makers in the industry! It has pool tables, dens and plenty of beer. It’s a great way to unwind after that long trek in the woods. If you’re feeling spoiled and you have that extra cash to spend for an exceptional bar experience, the Arctic Ice bar can cater to you. It’s expensive, but rightfully so with everything, from tables, bar, chairs all carved from ice! Plus, you get to wear a nice fluffy parka to keep you warm while sipping at your drink.

For individuals who prefer a *quieter* night out in Finland, then travel to Telakka in Tampere, its theatre offers its patrons with an inventive menu, theatre performances, and a bohemian air that can let you cut loose without losing your poise…or your consciousness!

When you travel Finland in June, be sure to drop by Olavinlinna Castle which is considered as the most outstanding and remarkable castle in North of Europe! By this month, you may be fortunate to catch some opera stars rehearsing for the Savonlinna Opera Festival which is celebrated the whole month!

Map of Estonia

Estonia is one of those little known about European countries. Although tourism is not as strong in this nation as other more established European countries, it still has a healthy little holiday market. Estonia has sandy beaches, wooded countryside and well preserved old towns. On top of this is is great value for money. We are talking about summer here, however Estonia is a true winter wonderland. Skiing is now very established and so are most of the other winter sports. Add to this the cultural tourism you will experience and it will make for a great winter holiday, whether you are travelling alone or in a group.

However as always Travel Insurance is a must. Holidaying without travel insurance is just asking for trouble. Knowing that any eventuality will be covered by your insurance is a real load off you shoulders. Being able to book a hotel if your cheap flight is cancelled is a real bonus. Some parts of Estonia are still quite under developed and really do require good travel insurance if you are planning to go to these destinations.

In no way should you let this discourage you from travelling to these places, in fact they are some the most beautiful places imaginable, it is just better to take the necessary precautions. Be prepared for any eventuality and keep yourself covered for any circumstance.

Here are some facts about Estonia
Official name is the Republic of Estonia. It is situated in the Baltic Region of Northern Europe. Bordered by the countries : Latvia and the Russian Federation. The Seas that border it are : Gulf of Finland and Baltic Sea. The land mass is 45,228 km/squared and a population of approximately 1.34 million people. The capital city is Tallinn. Estonias political system is a Parliamentary republic and the official language is Estonian.

Map of England

 

When planning a vacation to England, research is vital and good idea is to have a reliable and accurate travel map of England, the are not only useful but truly invaluable . England has a long established tourism industry, mainly based on it’s long a rich heritage. You will need a good tourist map, when discovering it’s wonders. Some obvious destinations are the town of Bath (a lovely Roman town), the obligatory Stonehenge, Salisbury plains and it’s wonderful prehistoric sites, the lakes district, York and Cambridge.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance. A vacation without travel insurance is just not worth it. The peace of mind you get, knowing that if your luggage gets lost or a flight gets cancelled you are covered by a good insurance policy that will get you into a hotel and replace the luggage you have lost. Although England is considered almost the centre of the civilised world, you can never be sure what will happen. Always be prepared.

Here are some facts about England
England is part of the UK. Other countries in the UK are Scotland and Northern Island. It is situated in the West of Europe and only bordered by Ireland. The Seas and oceans that border England are : Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, English Channel and the Irish Sea. The land mass is 130,395 km/squared and a population of approximately 50.3 million people. The capital city is London and the political system is a constitutional monarchy. The official language is obviously English

When visiting London a tour of all the political establishments is a must do. There are double decker bus rides that take you passed all these places and many other non political monuments and historical landmarks.

If you are interested in travel Europe then make sure you investigate all the cheapest options as thoroughly as possible.

Map of Denmark

Denmark is a land of rich history, fascinating monarchy and magnificent terrain. When you travel Denmark, one cannot help but be enthralled with the menagerie of places and hot spots to go to! Going around the area with a map of Denmark in hand is a great method for selecting the best sites to go to by highlighting the areas you want to visit, and before doing so, you can check out the great travel spots on the web and ask around for the most interesting sites.

The country is Scandinavian and sits at the Northern portion of Europe. It sports a temperate climate, which means no extremes of temperature all year round. Although their autumn is their wettest season, so one would think twice about traveling to the country walking in soggy socks and shoes. The place is ranked as one of the countries with the lowest unemployment rates and with this, you can expect very happy people, in fact, Denmark is statistically one of the happiest countries in the world! It’s also home to so many world wonders like the Viking boat burials, the bog mummies, and magnificent castles that simply take your breath away! It’s like living the fairy-tale only it’s real! Spending your holiday and vacation here are well worth the trip!

Copenhagen is Denmark’s capital, it boasts of cafes and restaurants that serve you with Denmark’s finest cuisine. Their cuisine, like any other Nordic nation, their meals consist primarily of fish and meat. Foods will include rye bread sandwiches and the main food of the day called Frokost that features smoked eel and pickled herring. One can also enjoy Copenhagen’s cold roast beef or liver pate with bacon and mushrooms. If you’re out to taste the best of Denmark, then opt top go out in the evenings and enjoy their Middag, the largest meal for the day that’s made of meat with plenty of rich gravy with boiled potatoes, pasta or rice.

Aside form the food, Copenhagen can offer the tourist more exciting places to go to. Downtown Centrum is the “Historical Center” of Copenhagen and is filled with splendid church spires, excellent shopping options, and historic buildings. Vesterbro is one cool district which has transformed tremendously over the years. Christianshaven is a neighborhood known for its canals.

Another interesting fact about Copenhagen is that it is the leader in the Bright Green Environmental Movement in Denmark and was cited as the key Cleantech cluster by Clean Edge.

Denmark has also contributed greatly to the world in terms of fashion, architecture, and graphic design, their flawless craftsmanship are exhibited in Denmark’s castles, paintings, artifacts, and buildings!

Denmark’s rolling plains is also an irresistible invitation to nature lovers. Its ground has been renowned for its burial rites and historic bog people, mummies which have been preserved by the high acid levels of the bog. Denmark’s castles are a major tourist attraction, too. You can’t help but feel awed by the sheer size and magnificence of these architectural wonders.

Map of Czech Republic

Charming rolling hills, a fascinating blend of contemporary and wonderful architecture, exciting nightlife, castles and a culture as unique as its name, Czech Republic has it all!

Czech Republic is nestled in the heart of central Europe and is banked on all sides by other countries, and for those who paid attention to their geography lessons in high school, they can find Czech Republic at the middle of the map of Europe with Slovakia to its east, Germany to the west, northeast is Poland and Austria to the south. This makes the country a huge melting pot of traditions, values, and people that are as colorful and ambivalent as their combined hi- tech cities and seemingly untouched emerald terrains and flora and fauna. It’s the ultimate travel destination for tourists seeking the comforts and conveniences of city life but also want to commune with nature in all its raw glory!

Ruzyne International Airport is Czech Republic’s main international airport and is the busiest airport in Central Europe with passengers reaching more than 12.4 million last 2007! To make the country more accessible to the world, it has constructed more than 40 airports and several paved runways. This country’s capital is Prague, and it boasts of a fun and lively nightlife that’s great for your budget. If you’re the type of tourist to leisurely stroll around, there are plenty of cafés like Café Louvre and Cafe Prague, and from there you can visit Charles Bridge with its magnificent views of Vltava River and Prague Castle, the place also sports plenty of riverside entertainment for your absolute enjoyment. If you want to keep your friends updated on your latest escapades in Czech Republic, no worry! The place has the Czech Republic has the highest number of Wi-Fi subscribers in the European Union! You can instantly upload pictures and email friends and loved ones through their hi-speed internet. While travelling do not forget to take with you the map of Czech Republic just to be sure you will not be lost.

This country also boasts of interesting sites and buildings. Prague’s “Dancing House” is a wonderful and thought provoking piece of architecture that seems to defy the laws of physics. Ironically, it can be found in the historic city attractions, which makes the building stand out in stark contrast. One can also find one of Prague’s premiere restaurants on the topmost floor of the Dancing House. Music and Theater lovers will also be ecstatic to find their passion entombed in the Czech Museum of music where more than 700, 000 items are on display for music enthusiasts. The most beautiful theater can also be found in Prague, Estates Theater is an imposing and fascinating structure where Mozart himself conducted Don Giovanni for the first time! Prague State Opera is another splendid theater one should not miss!

Travelling the Czech Republic’s countryside is also a great option for tourists seeking time out from Prague’s attractions. The climate in the area is variable and may vary according to the altitude or terrain. Their summers are hot and their winters biting cold, the warmest months are June, July, and August, which travelers often find to be the best time of the year to visit with regards to the climate.

Map of Cyprus

The possibility for a lengthy break calls for the time to leave the usual family home. This is the time to visit new places where low prices and warm local hospitality are anticipated. In fact one’s holiday or vacation is the time to wind down, have time with one’s self or with loved ones and reduce strain from dreadful work and bumps of life. For this, one of the main places one should go to would be Europe. Europe has an enormously stretched tradition of excellence in literature, painting, sculpture, architecture, music, and dance with astounding and remarkable museums, musical and groundbreaking spots.

One of the more acclaimed places in Europe would be Cyprus. The copper island where the mythical origin of the goddess of love Aphrodite hailed from, Cyprus has been sought after by a succession of admirers from different countries because of its turbulent past that made extraordinary choices of edifying and marvelous richness, from Crusader castles to the tomb of Mohammed’s aunt and Palm Tree Promenade in Larnaca that highlights stand-alone effigies as well as a beautiful fountain where swimming makes the stay worthwhile. With the island’s topography of bounteous seaboard with mountainous landscape, it guarantees a year-round inviting activity. Cyprus is the tourist class island in the Mediterranean Sea and the third largest Island in Europe (in terms of area and population). Its size is 240 kilometers long from end to end and 100 kilometers wide at its widest point making the access to notable historic sites and natural wonders, tourism in the country is developing. Be sure that you have a guide book and map of Cyprus with you.

See the artifacts like still life work of arts and wall paintings in the Villa of Dionysos which is recounted to be one of the best and commonly hand-picked destinations in the Mediterranean area. Another impressive historic site in the country that non-national visitors should see is the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos that features architectural ornamentation that will take your breath away with the thought provoking underground burial chambers. For people who are interested in checking object d’arts can go to Larnaca Medieval Museum in Larnaca Fort and see the most popular and well-known CTO (Cyprus Tourist Organization) governed beach, Dhassoudi in Limmasol with its neighboring museum that facets archaeological exhibits, botanic displays and demonstrations of ancient pottery, diamond cutting and jewels. To check the notable history of the country and see the castle-like presidential palace a few minute ride will take you in the national city, Nicosia which is one of the oldest cities in the world that made as center of an independent kingdom as early as the 7th century bc. Lastly, the place where tourist always visit last, the Troodos Village, known for its attributes for the shopaholics and park

lovers, for its numerous cafes, restaurants and hotels with plentiful souvenir shops and retail stores with serpentine slides, an activity pool and a lazy river at Waterworld water park in Ayia Napa. To experience gratifying and exhilarating visit in the place, tourists are encouraged to write these places in their visiting list.

No doubt, the Cyprus is a tourist must-see. Nature has gifted it with the best sanctuaries, from flora to fauna, to offer discriminating tourists. Cyprus is a gateway committed to people looking to escape from the dreary life, where inviting beaches, and spectacular mountain trails lie around lavish hotels.

Map of Bulgaria

In the recent past, Bulgaria has enjoyed an increase in popularity and has become a major travel destination of many tourists from around the world. One of the Bulgaria.s major tourist attractions is the Black sea and its charming coastline which many do not know about. Sofia, the capital city offers an easy pathway to most of the country.s attractions and resorts. Interestingly, the city is over 7000 years old yet so many people including some of its inhabitants are ignorant of this great fact.

Bulgaria has a total population of over 7,000,000 as of 2009. The main language spoken in this country is Bulgarian and the two main religions are the Bulgarian orthodox an Islam. The transport network around Bulgaria is smooth and the most popular method of transportation is through roads. There are several car rental agencies around Bulgaria so you do not have to worry about where you will get a car. The car rental services are affordable to every tourist and are budget friendly. The Bulgarian currency is known as lev and is the only currency you can use to pay for the car rental service. One Bulgarian lev is about $0.75.

Accommodation in Bulgaria is also affordable. The rates vary from city to city so you may need to check out with your travel agency on this. Most of the accommodation facilities like the famous Sofia apartments provide adequate parking for your car. It does not matter if the car is from a car rental agency, or personal. Parking spaces and maximum security are always provided. Just as in the car rental services you have to use the Bulgarian currency to pay for accommodation. Some hotels however, accept major currencies like the US dollar while others do not at all. You can change your currency to the lev from any of the local or international banks around you.

Strategically located in south east Europe, the weather in Bulgaria is Mediterranean climate, which makes the country even more enchanting. One of the towns fully enjoying this kind of weather is Burgas town. The town takes pride in beautiful sandy beaches,cool daytime and nighttime temperatures and best of all, prolonged sunlight in the summer season. Due to these enviable features, the town has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Widely known for its rich salads and desserts, the Bulgarian cuisine is mostly diverse with meat, dairy products and local wines. Most hotels and restaurants sell major Bulgarian dishes at affordable rates.Along the coastline,the cuisine slightly changes and one cannot help but fall in love with the delicious sea foods offered in both small restaurants and five star hotels.

Before packing up your bags to travel Bulgaria, get a map of Bulgaria to think of all the places to go to. Then before you leave, sum up your Bulgaria vacation with a pleasure drive around the city and its suburbs. It has a lot more to offer in terms of history and culture. There are museums,parks zoos, theaters and art galleries to visit. As you leave,you cannot help but feel the emptiness begin to fill you up for detaching yourself from this great and beautiful European country. You feel like taking one more day skiing, snowboarding or even mountain biking in the famous mountain resorts like the Borovets and Bansko. Here is a map of Eastern European countries.

Map of Italy

When travelling to Italy make sure you do your research. Find a good map of Italy! With this map in front of you it is always easier to plan that vacation. There are the obvious holiday destinations to visit, like Rome, Pompeii, Lake Como, Venice and Tuscany . However some of the less traveled Tourist spots are also an option, they add flavor to a holiday.

Travel Insurance is always a good idea. Taking a holiday without travel insurance is just not worth it. The peace of mind you get, knowing that if your luggage gets lost or a flight gets cancelled you are covered by a good insurance policy that will get you into a hotel and replace the luggage you have lost. Some parts of Italy are still quite under developed and really do require good travel insurance if you are planning to go to these destinations.

In no way should you let this discourage you from travelling to these places, in fact they are some the most beautiful places imaginable, it is just better to take the necessary precautions. Be prepared for any eventuality and keep yourself covered for any circumstance.

Italy has nearly always been at the center of European culture. The only other country that can claim a longer and arguably more successful European culture is Greece. However, Italy can definitely claim having the biggest and longest lived empire of ancient times. Italy’s influence on the Europe has been immeasurable and as a result is a great place to start any European holiday. Italy has much to give to an enthusiastic tourist, not just the ancient sites, although these should never be overlooked. Italy boast some of the most idyllic and secluded beaches, although a cafe is rarely far away. The provincial areas match anything you will find in the French countryside and the food is better if anything. The Alps border the north of the country and Milan is the hub of all activity in this region. You can not mention Milan and not mention shopping and in particular fashion. Milan matches and in some expert opinions over shadows Paris, in the fashion world.

If by chance you feel you need a change from Italy’s beaches, then it is just a short hop over the Adriatic Sea to Croatia. This can be a day trip, you can sample a new culture for the day and be back in Italy that evening. Italy has everything to offer the traveller. It is definitely a must do on any European vacation.

Here are some facts about Italy
Official name is the Italian Republic. It is situated in South Central Europe. Bordered by the countries : Slovenia, France, Austria and Switzerland. The Seas that border it are : Adriatic, Ionian, Tyrrhenian, and Mediterranean Seas. The land mass is 301,338 km/squared and a population of approximately 60.5 million people. The capital city is Rome. Italy’s political system is a democratic republic and official language is Italian.

Map of France

France has one of the strongest tourism industries in Europe. Travelling around France has become one of those must do travel experiences. The south of France although expensive, has some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe. Cheap tickets are available on rail and with most airlines these days, so you can really make your travel dollar/euro work for you. Group travel is especially welcomed in France and its tourist industry has a long history of catering for this kind of travel.

Like Germany you can find a tourist destination to cater for any taste. If you are planning a vacation that takes in natural wonders like mountain, forests, beaches and fields. Then nearly every region can cater for this. If you want history and culture, then every region can cater for this, especially Burgundy, Normandy and Brittany. Each region has its own culinary delights and specialities, you will find Wines, cheeses, hams, seafood, sausages and restaurants that are putting all the local delicacies on their menu’s. So a food buff touring France could spend years and not have tasted the wonders of every region.

There are few towns in the world more history rich and cosmopolitan as Paris. The capital of France has its own wonders for travellers to explore. History is everywhere in Paris, you can’t get away from it. Notre Dame, the Eiffel tower, the Arc de Triomphe are but a few sites to visit. Every era has left its mark on Paris. From the days of the Romans through Napoleonic times to modern day. Paris has absorbed it all and is a town willing to steep itself in it’s past but also looking to the future. Whether you want to take in the tourist sites or whther you want to while taway the hours in paris’ thousands of cafe’s or whether you want to shop your heart out. Paris has it all. There are direct flights to Paris from almost any major city in the USA, Europe or for that matter almost anywhere in the world. A map of France is a must have when travelling around counry side as it can get a little confusing

Always remember to take out travel insurance, it is one of the last things we think about when travelling. However a good travel insurance policy is the best investment you can make. Make sure you read and understand what you are being covered for, as all insurance policies are definitely not equal.

Here are some facts about France
Official name is the French Republic. It is situated in central Europe. Bordered by the countries : Belgium, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Luxembourg and Germany. The Seas that border it are : the North Sea, Atlantic Ocean, Bay of Biscal and Mediterranean Sea. The land mass is 547,030 km/squared and a population of approximately 61.7 million people. The capital city is Paris. Frances political system is a Unitary semi-presidential republic and the official language is French.

Map of Germany

Tips to consider before flying to Germany
In summer there are the amazing forests and foothills and mountains of the Alps, Great resorts on the Baltic Sea and wonderful villages to explore. In the cities there is shopping equal to that found in Milan, cafe’s equal to those found in Rome and all manner of performing arts. From street performance all the way up to opera.

However Germany is a true winter wonderland. Skiing is now very established and so are most of the other winter sports. Truely experience a white christmas, those same Alps that offer such wonderful bushwalking and natural adventure during summer become some of Europes best ski resorts. You can get a map of Germany that has all the ski resorts high lighted, I totally recommend getting a hold of it.

Although flights to Germany are cheap, you will still want to have Travel Insurance to cover any possible problems that might arise. Knowing that any eventuality will be covered by your insurance allows you to enjoy your holidays without the worry of always thinking what would happen if you lost your luggage. Being able to book a hotel if your cheap flight is cancelled is a real bonus.

Here are some facts about Germany
Official name is the Federal Republic of Germany. It is situated in central Europe. Bordered by the countries : Denmark, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, France and the Czech Republic. The Seas that border it are : the North Sea and Baltic Sea. The land mass is 357021 km/squared and a population of approximately 61.7 million people. The capital city is Berlin. The German political system is a Federal Parliamentary Republic and the official language is German.