There are a number of tourist destinations around the world some of which can only be explored by people who have a made it a habit to tour different countries for holidays. One of the amazing tourist destinations is Vienna, the capital city of Austria. This is mainly because of the numerous attractions and places that offer an amazing experience to visitors of all ages and descent. The first irresistible place in Vienna is the Café central that is an esteemed coffee house. Café central is in fact famous among authors and other intellectuals like Theodor Herzl, Peter Altenberg, Hugo Von Hofmannsthal, Egon Friedell, Adolf Loos, Vladimir Lenin and Leon Trotsky who would hold meetings here and discuss subjects such as philosophy, politics and economics among others. The café’s long history, famous patrons and the beautiful atmosphere have made Café Central a place that every tourist must consider visiting and is thus recommended by the stakeholders in the tourism industry. This is despite the fact that the original Café Central was located in a different section of the building known as Palais Ferstel that was closed at the end of the Second World War.  The café thus has a number of informative signs bearing the images of the celebrities of the old even though they did not sit at any of the tables in reality. Even then, the café has embraced impressive architecture and the drinks and food served hear is mouth watering. You can also get to experience Viennesse Coffee that guarantees you fresh authentic coffee.

The second place that most tourists explore while in Vienna is the Viennese cuisine. The traditional wine tavern also known as Heurige makes the experience worth while. Even then, it is Grinzing which is a combination of Heurige within the vineyards that overlook Vienna that are the main Viennese attraction. In fact, the experience is more rewarding compared to what you get after jostling among Japanese tourists. There are quite a number of Heurige within Austria’s Wine Quarter, Hagenbrunn and even Stammersdorf as well as the town of Perchtoldsdorf. All these locations are within reach by tourists. Another treat for the visitors who travel to Vienna are the Lipizzaner horse shows, an initiative of the Spanish riding school that was instituted in 1572. The school is considered to be one of the most prestigious as well as oldest the world over. Also notable is the Baroque architecture that is strategically nestledin the Hofburg palace that attracts visitors. This is in addition to the Lipizzan horses. However, you will not view these artistry and the horses for free as a fee of about one hundred and seventy three Euros is charged for each performance. Should you be interested in an up close and personal experience with the horses you will need to pay and additional twelve Euros while those desiring to explore the stables for a guided tour will need a combo ticket.

The other place that every tourist needs to consider visiting in Vienna is the famous Sacher hotel. This hotel is known for a world famous dessert that comprises dual sheets of chocolate cake that is separated by another sheet of apricot jam at the centre and is covered in a chocolate glaze that is dark. It is thus Hotel Sacher that has the right to the Sachertorte hence it is abit costly. Even then, there are a few other hotels that sell Sachertorte that is equally mouth watering. Vienna is also known for its numerous souvenir shops besides the sights and sounds. One of the best ways of remembering your holidays experience in Vienna is by purchasing a keepsake that would depend on your experiences. The good news is that there are numerous souvenir shops that offer a wide range of items that accommodate everyone. It is important to ensure that the souvenir items that you select are not cheaply made Chinese products but real Austrian antiques. You could also these memorabilia outside Vienna.

Ultimately, it is true that if you travel to Vienna for holidays and are not the disciplined type when it comes to finances, chances are that you will spend a lot of money on items you will later realize that you do not need. It is therefore advisable that you prepare for your visit to Vienna adequately by preparing a detailed itinerary of your trip. You may also need to find out about the various interesting places in Vienna to enable you to budget adequately. Most importantly, ensure that you take not of any activities that will require you to pay a designated fee so that you do not limit yourself on the activities that you can engage in as well as the places you can visit. You could also look at working with a tour company that will ensure you make the most out of your trip.

Helsinki is Finland’s largest and capital city with a population of at least 500,000 people. It is considered Finland’s cultural center. The Helsinki-Vantaa Airport connects a number of destinations in Asia and Europe and this makes it an ideal place for holidays for people residing in these continents. However, this does not mean that the airport locks out people from other regions or continents that want to tour or explore Helsinki.

The city derives its name from the Swedish name Helsingfors, a combination of two words (Helsinge – the surrounding parish) and (fors – the rapids). There are still many theories surrounding the origin of this name and they could go on and on. Nevertheless, what is important is the fact that this is a vital city and it has been in the records as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. Helsinki is praised for its richness in the number of islands, peninsulas and bays and could provide an excellent experience for any holidaymaker or visitor. When you explore Helsinki, you will admire a scenic display of patches of forest. Some visitors claim that the Helsinki Central Park is just irresistible; they can not leave the city without taking much of their time in the park. One tourist wished the park would be transported to her neighbourhood back at home.

When you travel to Helsinki, you could consider making a tour to its rich islands such as:

• Lauttasaari island
• Korkeasaari island
• Santahamina island
• Seurasaari island
• Pihlajasaari island

These islands are favourite spots during summer. Helsinki and its islands receive a considerable number of visitors during summer as a result of the prevailing humid continental climate. It is also reported that the city experiences long days in summer and this means that you can have all enjoy all the sun rays and warm climate as you please.
Apart from the islands, the city itself is a beauty to behold. Some of the most fascinating buildings and sites include:

• The Aleksanterinkatu
• The Helsinki Cathedral
• The parliament of Finland
• Kaisaniemenlahti
• Café Regatta near Sibelius Park
• The Senate Square
• The Government Palace
• The Stora Enso, the headquarters of the paper company
• Finlandia Hall, the concert venue
• The Tennis Palace
• Olympic Stadium
• The Swimming Stadium
• Glass Palace
• The Rowing Stadium
• The Helsinki-Malmi Airport
• The Exhibition Hall

All these sites and buildings are demonstrations of the architectural ingenuity and innovativeness that can not be found anywhere else except in Helsinki, Finland. In fact the Helsinki-Malmi Airport and Olympic Stadium have been recognized as important national cultural-historical environments by the National Board of Antiquities.

Helsinki is endowed with museums which are home to a wide range historical collection some of which date as far back as the prehistoric times. They include:

• The National Museum of Finland
• The Helsinki City Museum
• The UNIVERSITY MUSEUM, University of Helsinki
• The Natural History Museum, University of Helsinki
• The Kiasma Art Museum for classical modern art
• The Sinebrychoff Art Museum for classical European art
• The Ateneum Art Museum for classical Finnish art

In case you are not a fan of museums and galleries, you can take a tour of Helsinki’s theatres and the most popular theatres are: the Helsinki City Theatre, the Finnish National Theatre and the Finland Swedish Svenska Teatern. They will offer you the best experience that you have ever had in your life. While it is good to spend most of your time outdoors, it is also vital to give yourself a break so that you can be witness to what happens in Helsinki’s theatres and musical venues. Some visitors arrive there with the assumption that theatres and musical venues across the globe offer presentations and renditions that are not any different from what they have in their respective countries. You know what they say, “He who has eaten his mother’s food all his life might think that his mother is the best cook in the whole wide world.” If you give it a chance, you will be shocked at how different theatres are in Helsinki.

Whenever you choose to explore Helsinki and its attractions, do not just focus on the recreational, buildings and other attractions. Remember that people are usually the best attractions that you can ever have. Interact with the locals in Helsinki and discover the ideas that they have. The best time you can interact and mingle with the locals is in August when they are having their Helsinki Festival. This event is held with the aim of celebrating the city’s culture and body of arts.

Finally, the city’s well developed transport network makes mobility of visitors to their respective destinations of choice faster and easy. Helsinki is a city of choice and a city visitors and locals.

If it has never crossed your mind to explore Lisbon, Portugal’s largest and capital city, it is high time you scheduled a tour of Lisbon in your diary. It is estimated that this city has a population of 3 million and has been rated as the 9^th most populous urban area in the European Union. It is strategically placed among the cities in Europe along the Atlantic coast and this has made it an excellent centre for tourism, arts, entertainment and international trade. As a result of its improved transport system, it has become the 7^th most visited city in southern Europe. This has been made possible due to its well developed motorway network, the Lisbon Portela Airport as well as its high speed rail which connects major cities in Portugal.  There are plans to connect its high speed rail to Spain so that the city can be accessed easily and conveniently.

If you would like to travel to Rome, Istanbul, Madrid, Barcelona, Milan, or Athens, you can do so without any problem. Being the wealthiest city, it has become home to many headquarters of multinationals in Portugal and it is also the 9^th city in the world which attracts international conferences.  Did you know that Lisbon is older than cities such as Paris, Rome and London? Despite the fact that Lisbon has never been declared officially as the capital city of Portugal, it still remains a force to reckon with not only in Portugal and Europe but also across the globe. People throughout the world would love to experience the climate, art, entertainment and culture of Lisbon. Even people who have aspirations of venturing into the business world need to consider making numerous tours of this city so that they can see immense opportunities that are hidden along the Atlantic coast.

It is a good place for your holidays too because of the various sites such as Jeronimos Monastery, Belem Towers. Most visitors come mainly to experience Lisbon’s Mediterranean climate whose summers take about 6 months. It is also known for its warm to hot summers as well as mild winters. Since rains are common in winters, summers are usually dry. If you would like to explore a city in Europe that would guarantee you sunshine hours that range between 4.6 hours and 11.6 hours per day in December and July respectively, then Lisbon is the place to be. Does it deserve mention that Lisbon has the warmest winters among all the metropolises in Europe? You can not help spending part of your time at the beautiful Parque Florestal de Monsanto (English:  Monsanto Forest Park) which takes 10% of Lisbon’s municipality.

As you tour the city’s urban area, you will not hesitate to marvel at its wide range of architecture such as Baroque, Romanesque, Gothic as well as Manueline. You will also not consider it a waste of time and resources spending your holidays in Lisbon because of its remarkable Museums such as

• the Museu do Azulejo (Museum of Portuguese-style Tile Mosaics)
• the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga (National Museum of Ancient Art)
•  the Berardo Collection Museum (Modern Art) at the Belém Cultural Center
•  the Museu Nacional do Traje e da Moda (National Museum of Costume and Fashion)
•  the Museu Nacional dos Coches (National Coach Museum)
• the Museu da Electricidade (English: Electricity Museum)
• the Museu da Cidade (the City Museum)
• the Museu do Teatro Romano (The Roman Theatre Museum)
• the Museu da Farmácia (Pharmacy Museum)

It is almost impossible to exhaust every treasure that Lisbon keeps in its wings. On the southern bank of Tagus River in Amada is a monument to Cristo Rei (Christ the King) whcih was constructed after World War II. It was a sign of thanksgiving since Portugal had been able to survive the ravages of World War II. When your holidays coincide with June 13, you will be able to share in Lisbon’s holiday on which Santo Antonio (saint Antony of Lisbon) is honored for spending the better part of his life preaching to the poor.

Some people particularly want to explore the following places:

• Fountain in Don IV square, the second largest park in Lisbon
• Alcantara, a district that is composed of palaces and farms and other old buildings. The youth love the district due to its numerous pubs and discotheques.
• Alfama, a district that comprises old houses, restaurants and bars.

Lisbon’s panoramic view from the top of Sanctuary Christ the King is breathtaking. You may also consider standing atop Vasco da Gama Tower and viewing the Vasco da Gama Bridge. It is a beauty to behold!

You need to make a date with Lisbon so that you can explore, experience and tour every corner of this city. You will discover how much you have missed.

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland. For this very reason many people travel to this place every year from all over the world. The city is vast but many of the tourist opportunities can be found in one central location. You will be amazed at the beauty of the rather modern houses, you really will experience the Scandinavian way of life when you visit.

Travel to Reykjavik is fairly simple, although for a large capital city the airport is located quite a way out of town. You will be looking for flights that head to Keflavik International Airport, this is around 50km from the city. You should be able to grab a bus to the city from here. The bus ride will take around 45 minutes and takes you to the city centre.

Once in Reykjavik you will most likely want to stay within the city centre where most hotels are located, you should be able to tackle everything on foot. Although if you want to head slightly further away and travel to different places then the bus system is fairly reliable. You can also hire a car, although if you are not heading outside of Reykjavik this isn’t a necessity. It is vital if you want to visit other places in Iceland during your stay however.

The buildings of the city are very colourful due to the lack of planning that has gone into them. Many of the buildings are actually fairly old structures that have been covered by coloured sheet metal. The houses of people actually make a rather wonderful tourist attraction. There are a number of highlights however. The first is the Alþingi which is the government building or the old one at least. I suggest checking this out, although tours at this time are not possible. Don’t forget to make space to visit the Cathedral and the City Hall, both are architectural wonders in their own right. I suggest heading the Perlan. This place is a viewing platform that offers delightful views over the city. At certain times of the year you may also find ‘The Peace Tower’ turned on. This tower was created by Yoko Ono as a lasting tribute to John Lennon.

There are many museums throughout the city suiting nearly every interest. One particular highlight is the national museum of Iceland. I also suggest paying a visit to the Reykjavik Museum of Photography for a slightly different experience.

Boats regularly leave from the city to take you on Whale Watching tours, this is an experience you will not be able to find in most other countries in the world. This is the top of the list of ‘must do’ whilst in the city. There is also a zoo to visit if you have a number of young children that you wish to keep entertained.

You shouldn’t be short of places to eat or drink, Reykjavik is full of them and there won’t be far to travel to reach either from your hotel.

Reykjavik in Iceland may not be top of the list for most people to travel to in their lifetimes. Those that do however get to experience how unique and beautiful this city is. Many return time and time and again to take in all the wonders.

Travelling to Berne, Switzerland

What a rare treat to be able to experience the beauty that is Berne, Switzerland. Get your map of Berne out and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime. Considered one of the best cities in terms of quality of life, Berne is number 4 in terms of population density as compared with other cites in Switzerland. Typically, a dialect known as Bernese German is the spoken language in the area. Most people in the city speak German, with Italian as a second language. In some cases, you will hear someone speak French. Situated to the west of centre Switzerland, Berne rests a section of the Swiss plateau. To the south are the majestic Bernese Alps. With pleasant weather year round Berne is a delightful city. The summers are mild with temperatures rarely getting above 75 degrees. Winters are also mild with temperatures normally not going below about 30 degrees. This is a true jewel of Europe and beckons visitors from all over the world.

When you travel to Berne, Switzerland expect to be surrounded by culture, with a multitude of festivals, as well as many cinemas and theatres. Some examples of local festivals include the Buskers Festival, and the Gurten festival. For music lovers there is also the Internationales Jazz Festival Bern. Theatres abound in Berne, with such well-known venues as Schlachthaus Theatre, Bern Theater, Tojo Theatre, and Narrenpack Theatre Bern. With Switzerland having such a rich and diverse cultural history, it is little wonder that so many culturally inclined tourists choose to spend their holiday among the sights and sounds of Berne, Switzerland. This is an inviting community with warm and friendly people who are proud to call Berne, Switzerland home. Once you have had the opportunity to explore this wonderful city you will likely agree too that it is surely one of the rare true gems of Europe. With a map of Berne in hand you will be endlessly amazed and awe struck by all this culturally abundant area has to offer each and every visitor, young and old alike.

For those who find solace in museum tours, Berne, Switzerland has a nice cross section of excellent museums. A few examples include the Swiss Alpine Museum, the PTT, Historisches Museum, the Art Museum and Art History Center of Berne, as well as the Federal Archives of Switzerland. Berne also boasts some quite truly dramatic and artistically pleasing fountains. Any visit to Berne, Switzerland would not be complete with first seeing fountains such as Gerechtigkeits Fountain, Kreuzgassbrunnen Fountain, Lauferbrunnen Fountain, Simsonbrunnen Fountain, as well as Pfeiferbrunnen Fountain. These beautifully sculptured water works of art are stunning and often dramatic in design as well as function. In your travels be sure to visit each of these highly artistic works of art. There is nothing more enjoyable than strolling down a city lane in Berne, Switzerland and stumble across a beautiful and stately fountain. The images and impressions of Switzerland will stay with you for a long time, well after your holiday tour has ended and you have returned home.

At the heart of Berne is the city centre with a rather medieval appeal this building has the distinction of being a World Heritage Site. One of the most photographed and most well known structures in Berne is perhaps the Zyglogge. The name Zyglogge actually translates to “Time Bell” and it has its roots in the Bernese German language. The Zyglogge is a ornate and striking clock with medieval overtones. The clock includes in its make-up a display of moving puppets, as well. With so much to offer, the city of Berne is a destination that deserves serious consideration when your travel plans call for a trip to Europe. In addition to all that the city makes available, there is also a long list of breathtaking bridges, including such structures as Neubrugg bridge, Untertorbrucke bridge, Halenbrucke bridge, as well as Kornhausbrucke bridge. All these bridges are unique and each has a personality all its own. Many of the bridges can accommodate those wishing to walk across, and driving is always an option too. Berne is a special place indeed, and these wonderful bridges are just further confirmation.

Exploring further into the Berne way of life, you will no doubt want to see the many varied and dramatic places of worship located through out the city. A few examples of the attractive church architecture you will see include such places as Swiss Reformed Paulus Church, Christ Catholic Church of St.Peter and Paul, Swiss Reformed Heilliggeist Church, and the Catholic Church of Bruder Klaus. Perhaps the most well known of churches in the Berne area is Munster Cathedral. The Munster of Berne is situated in the old city and was built in 1421. The cathedral is the tallest in all of Switzerland and its tower is over 100 feet in height. With awe inspiring stained glass this is a absolute must see while in Switzerland. There has never been a better time to visit Switzerland, with all its culture and old world feel, it is a place you will always remember. Set your sights on Berne, and make travel plans, because this will be a trip you will remember for decades. Perhaps the best part of Berne is its wonderfully friendly and genuine people. You will be greeted and welcomed everywhere you go in Berne. This is the perfect time to go and explore the wonders Berne has to offer.

Britain is a great country that has some of the hottest tourist attraction cities like London that are flocked by tourist each and every year. Many critics and tourist site reviewers will agree that London is one of the major destination places when it comes to tourism. People go to tour this city with such a rich history. Britain is well known for its intense history and this is what makes the tourist flock this great city each and every year. It is said that London attract over thirty million tourist each year this it has earned the bragging rights to be called one of the most famous city in the world. Tourist all over the world know of the various hot places that they can visit when they come to Britain and will always make a point of visiting the city of London, a great map of London comes in handy here. The large number of hot tourist destination spots that this city has to offer always thrills the tourists who come to explore this great city. There are museums that house some of the most famous paintings not to mention the fact that they also have records of the city’s long and rich history. For those tourists who love history London is definitely the place to visit. The good thing about many of the museums that are found in this city is that they offer free admission into the museums. This means that the tourist does not have to worry about admission into the museums and can even reduce the amount of money that they spend while touring the museums. Famous museums like the British Museum boast of an art collection that is rivalled by very few other museums. It is said that this museum houses over seven million different art exhibits within its walls. This is a great incentive for the tourist who loves to view art and is one of the reasons why this great city attracts so many people. The exhibits that are found in this museum are not only rich in the history of Great Britain, but they also cover other great cities like Egypt and Rome. The art exhibition is a historical background into the development of the human race from the ancient times to these modern times. It is a celebration of the development of human culture and will entertain and teach anyone who goes to see the great collection. From the world’s oldest mummy to the ancient Roman Empire, there is indeed something for everyone to view and be entertained. To add icing to the whole cake, the British Museum is open seven days of the week and what’s more is that its admission is free to the public.

Wonderful Ancient Athens

The city of Athens is the Capital of Greece that boasts of numerous things that attract visitors including some of the world’s best tourist attractions. Visitors who tour Athens are come to experience the monuments that Athens offers as well as explore the tourism industry. As such the city which is also known as a primary tourist attraction within Europe guarantees visitors who are drawn from the different parts of the world memorable holidays. The attractions of Athens are just a section of the numerous historical as well as other natural wonders. In fact, Athens’ glory is in its splendid past as well as its role in the classical history. While in Athens, visitors get to explore the exciting, vibrant and charming city who are spoilt for choice on the attractions and activities to engage in as the town brings together a cocktail of traditional, cultural as well as historical treasures. The experience is made even better especially for individuals who are on holidays by the presence of well trained tour guides from various tour companies who supply information on the various places and monuments that visitors opt to visit alongside the history of Athens itself. Notably, a majority of the museums and monuments in Athens have their origin in the period of the wake of civilization. As such, Athens is capable of satisfying it visitors of diverse ages, groups and civilizations because of the diversity of the attractions, accommodation and shopping experience. Every person who intends to travel to Athens ought to be aware of the best places to see so that they do not miss a thing. Some of the a must see attractions of Athens include the acropolis and the Parthenon, the national archaeological museum, the cape sounion and the temple of Poseidon, the Piraeus, the Plaka and the night life.

The National Archeological Museum offers the grandeur of the Greek culture which dates back from the Minoans and Cycladic Island civilization as well as Mycenaeans to the present. This museum is home to ancient Greek jewellery, sculpture, pottery as well as Antikythera Device. That is, the a computer that is over 2000 years old which tells of the technological developments in Greece. The museum is one among many that tourists as well as locals may visit. Fans of coins may on the other hand be fascinated by the Nuimismatic museum while Icon enthusiast will find pleasure visitng the Byzantine museum. Also, admirers of ancient warfare will find the War museum a great place to explore even though the museum is known to attract admirers of history and students alike. However it is the Benaki museum that adequately captures the transition from the ancient to Modern Greece.

The Acropolis and Parthenon is another attraction worth taking note of as it tells that story of the ancient Greek culture. The Acropolis museum is worth touring as it presents the opportunity to enjoy a breath taking view of the city of Athens that is dotted with Temples. The stunning building is overwhelming as it has great achievements for mankind. While here, visitors experience the archaeological sites such as Theatre of Herod Atticus, Ancient Agora and Keramiekos as well as Theatre of Dionysious.

Another attraction that is worth checking out while on your tour of Athens is the Piraeus, a port city that allows you to enjoy the sea’s blue waters and sights. Besides, a walk into the Piraeus Archeological museum makes your travel to Athens worth the while besides the numerous culinary delights that you will get to experience and enjoy. Also, Piraeus offers some of the best eating places. Also worth visiting is the Cape Sounion at the hill that overlooks the sea and is perched strategically at the Attiki Peninsula tip. While here, visitors also get to see the Temple of Poseidon that is an ancient place of worship that is now very popular among locals as well as tourists who travel to Athens. This temple has the graffiti of Lord Byron that art lovers admire. Moreover, the location of the temple comes with the advantage of allowing visitors to enjoy a breathtaking sunset against monuments and the view of the sea. Athens city is also known to have a lively night life as shops are usually open till late hence tourists do not need to worry about their safety. There are numerous other things that visitors to Athens may engage in. even then, it is advisable that visitors intending to check into hotels make their bookings in advance to ensure that there are less hassles during the actual trip. Where possible, last minute planning should be avoided at all costs because it goes a long way in determining how ell the trip will be enjoyed. It is in fact recommended that visitors liaise with tour companies in  Athens to make their experience smooth.

Madrid boasts of a good reputation as a frontrunner in finance, administration, politics as well as services that make it a cosmopolitan city. This capital of Spain is rich in architectural and historical marvels that are of artistic culture and important heritage. Madrid lies about 646 meters above sea level at the centre of the Iberian Peninsular. This city is an exemplary tour destination as you can get to explore a blend of both the modern and ancient infrastructure and art. It is among Europe’s most important cities with a diverse culture that is only second to very few cities around the world. In fact, it is ranked as a cultural city in the world, with many people coming to experience this cultural richness. In fact, some of the world renowned museums are found in Madrid among them The Prado Museum that has a great collection of paintings including the works of Goya, Valezquez, El Grecco and Rubbens among others.

Madrid is believed to be home to an estimated 73 museums which are dedicated to special spheres of knowledge. One of these museums that attract visitors coming to Madrid for holidays is the Prado museum that holds massive at galleries from different parts of the world. The museums hold art galleries that are exclusive showcasing contemporary art. The Reina Sofia National Art Centre makes a perfect example of this as it displays the works of famous artists such as Salvador Dali, Juan Giris and Picasso among others. Other attractions in Madrid include the huge parks that are especially ideal for family holidays as you can be sure of an unforgettable experience. Besides the opportunity to explore nature, visitors also get to enjoy walks and also feed some of the smaller animals in the green park. It is these parks that actually make Madrid to be ranked among capitals that are most green with the Casa de Campo, Juan Carlos I Park and the Retiro Park making an immense contribution to the same. It is because of these that a majority of tourists travel to Madrid.

One of the things that visitors to Madrid cannot go back without learning is the history of Madrid. It is believed that Madrid was proclaimed to be the capital of Spain during the reign of King Philip II. The Hapsburg Empire (Madrid de los Austrias ) is thus a great place to visit especially for history lovers as they not only get to experience by also explore the 15^th and 16^th Century lifestyle. This is also true for Plaza Mayor that is also referred to as the square and is a must visit location for tourists. In fact, this place considered to be among the tourist hotspots in Madrid.  Neighboring Plaza Mayor is a classically styled structure that dates back to the 17^th century and an Old Baroque. The structure is known to be the home of the Royal Place. The Royal Place on the other hand is located close to Almudena Cathedral that was officially consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1993. The Opera house too is located within this area. This is not all as the square is complete with several monumental structures such as Paseo del Arte and the Bank of Spain building, Palacio de las Telecommunicaciones that is used currently by the Post office and also the Cibeles and Neptuno fountains.

Of importance however, visitors must be keen to understand the seasons during which it is best to visit Madrid to avoid disappointments. Even then, Madrid is generally known to for its nice climate that is subtly warm. This is often reflected in its people who are accommodating, friendly and warm hence when you travel to Madrid you do not have to be afraid of any kind of hostility. Besides visiting museums and parks, your holidays in Madrid can be made better by attending a number of concerts, exhibitions, ballets, theatre productions and movie releases that make Madrid a powerhouse of entertainments matters. The Spanish cuisine is also something you want to try out while in Madrid as they offer a scrumptious traditional cuisine besides the international foods that are also served. There is also plenty of entertainment opportunities as the place has a number of pubs, bars as well as night clubs which make it an exciting experience altogether.

For those people who have a thing for fashion, Madrid is accommodating hence you can be sure that your trip will be worth the while. There are numerous stores that stock designer brands as well as other international establishments that make Madrid a favourable fashion destination of all time as well as a shoppers paradise. If you are travelling with your family and have children in your midst, you do not have to worry as they too can have fun at the famous Faunia theme park that offers extensive bio diversity. In conclusion, a trip to Madrid promises you nothing but the best.

Moscow is known for its exotic beauty as well as number of attractions that are characteristic to Russia. As the capital of Russia, Moscow remains to be a hotspot for many tourists due to the presence of cultural sites, historical monuments, ports and museums that tourists come to explore while on holidays. As a matter of fact, the evenings in Moscow are nothing short of a memorable experience for those visitors who tour this city. A family vacation in Russia is will be incomplete without going through the history of this nation that is majestically showcased at the Tretyakov gallery in Moscow. Most of the visitors tour this gallery which is known for the country’s rich cultural heritage. There are numerous other attractions that Russia has to offer among them national parks, lakes as well as gardens. In fact, Russia’s Lake Baikal is one of the top most tourist spots and has consequently been ranked among the world’s natural wonders. Besides, it is also the among the world’s largest fresh water lakes. This lake is a haven for bird waters as it hosts various species of migratory birds each year. Another Russian tourist attraction is the Volga river that is also the largest if its kind in the whole of Europe.

Besides Moscow, visitors coming to Russia could also visit other popular Russian cities like the Golden Ring and Vladivostok. The city of Moscow hosts a number of prehistoric buildings, administrative offices, art galleries, parks and theaters. Some of the sights that tourists in Moscow explore include Kremlin, the Red square, the St. Basil cathedral, Cathedral of Christ the savior, Novodevichy convent, Poklonnaya mountain, Arbat, Kitai-Gorod, Europe square, Moscow university, Kuskovo estate, ostankino estate, arkhangelskoye among others.

Moscow is thus a great destination for tourists. Those intending to visit are usually advised to ensure proper planning of their holidays so that they have time to explore the vast attractions. This is because the city offers an experience that will remain on your memory for a long time. In fact, it is believed that people who find pleasure in exploring new places cannot resist Moscow. Among the notable places in Moscow include Kremlin that offers world class standards as it is also central to the Russian Government. Hence some of the notable structures that make up the Kremlin include government buildings, cathedrals, a beautiful palace and museums.

Another of Moscow’s popular places is the Red Square which is also close to Kremlin. The Red Square has a distinct feature that is St. Basil’s Cathedral that is painted in bright colors. Also worth visiting in Moscow is the Resurrection Gate especially those people who are on vacation. On the other hand for individuals whose interest is in theatre then they can consider visiting the famous Bolshoi theatre, one of the largest in Russia. Visitors who travel to Moscow are usually allowed in for shows as long as they have booked tickets before the shows. However, as expected, the tickets issued to tourists cost more than those sold to locals. As such it is better to make an online booking for your ticket. Moscow also has awesome market places that tourists who like shopping can also take advantage of as long as finances allow. Old Arbat is one among the many shopping places, that is characteristically busy hence you can be sure of finding crowds even though the experience is worthwhile. There is also a famous museum in Old Arbat.

Some of the interesting facts that visitors need to know is the fact that most of the buildings in Moscow were built in the same way so you need not be surprised when you come across buildings that are similar. A perfect example is the two blocks of flats as well as the two administrative buildings at the Moscow State University. This is besides a number of hotels and many other buildings that are similar to each other. Also worth noting is the fact that Moscow ranked among Europe’s most populated cities despite not being big like Paris, London or even Istanbul. Moreover, it is known to accommodate tourist of all sorts including those who intend to go on vacation with their friends and families. There are numerous hotels to accommodate all kinds of tourists and visitors ranging from the business visitors and those that are visiting purely for pleasure. In order to be safe and for ease of settling in upon arrival, you may make reservations prior to your visit at rates that are discounted. The reservations are usually done for the various levels of hotels ranging from the tourist class to the five star hotels that are luxurious. This can simply be done online and highly recommended especially during high season when almost all the places are usually booked.

Who coined the name Dublin in reference to the capital of Ireland? There numerous explanations that have been offered but none has been able to reveal the person that chose to call this city Dublin, as it is known today. Some people claim that the name Dublin was a derivative from two Irish words Dubh Linn which when translated mean “black pool”. A drive through history reveals that Dublin has undergone a series of evolution which resulted from the various occupants that infiltrated into this city. When you travel to Dublin, you will discover that the city is divided into the Northside and Southside by River Liffey. The other feature that will immediately hit your site is a low mountain range which has flat farmland adjacent to it. A visitor who is new to the people and culture of the two sides of Dublin might not discover the cultural and class differences that have been created by this river.

Nevertheless, this should not concern you unless you have come to Dublin to specifically study its people and their culture. Some people have made Dublin their frequent tourist destination every year because it not only has cool summers but also mild winters. You might not experience temperature extremes which are typical of other cities. The other thing that you will discover is that Dublin experiences uniform rainfall distribution throughout the years. Although it has punctuations of the wettest months and driest months of the year, tourists have chosen to make accurate timings of their favorite season. An interval of snow that occurs sometimes has not affected people who would love to tour and explore Dublin as infinitely as possible. Some of them have been so determined to brace any change in weather until they finish their holidays.

Dublin is unique in terms of its structure, organization, culture and attractions. These are features that make it distinct and one of people’s most favorite tourist destinations. It has various places of interest such as:

• The statue of Jim Larkin
• The Spire of Dublin
• The Dublin Castle
• The Molly Malone statue
• Books of Kells
• The Ha’penny Bridge
• The Anna Livia monument
• The Mansion House
• Christ Church Cathedral
• Molly Malone statue
• Mount Joy Square
• St Patrick’s Cathedral
• The Poolbeg Towers
• St Francis Xavier Church

All these are vital buildings and structures with exceptional architectural designs. Most visitors come with their cameras in order to ensure that every memorable experience is captured as clearly and accurately as possible.

Studies indicate that Dublin has the greenest parks in Europe and are well worth your while to explore them and enjoy their beauty and elegance. The most popular parks are:

• St Stephen’s Green
• The phoenix Park
• Herbert Park
• St Anne’s Park

These parks are well maintained and some them are walled and with tree-lined avenues. Besides, they are fully covered to ensure that residents and visitors can spend their holidays in a serene, clean and relaxing atmosphere.

If you want to travel within and without Dublin, you need not worry because Dublin has a well developed transport system that ranges from road, rail to air transport. In case you find cycling suitable for you, you can still do so without any restriction or coercion. The city’s road network comprises the M50 motorway which links vital primary routes with other parts of the country. This makes it possible for any visitor on tour to reach his/her destination without interruption or inconvenience. This motorway is also supplemented by the M1 motorway and the inner orbital route. There are over 150 bus routes that access every part of the city as well as its suburbs and fares are based on the distance covered

Though some people consider rail transport slower, it can also serve you well in Dublin. Remember that to travel on the train, issues to do with traffic jam can not arise and this implies that you can very easily predict when you expect to arrive at your chosen destination. You will be expected to operate between Connolly Stations and Heuston stations, the major railway stations in Dublin. Dublin Airport serves people within as well as out of Dublin and it is the busiest airport in Ireland. It offers a wide range of services such as domestic services top other airports in Ireland. The long haul services, on the other hand, are offered to countries such as Canada, Middle East and the United States

A number of visitors might feel that their tour and holidays can not be complete without taking a ride on their bikes. Dublin is well aware that this category of people exists and Dublinbikes for this purpose. These are unisex bicycles whose use is based on a self-service bicycle rental scheme.

Stockholm – winter style

Stockholm is Sweden’s largest and capital city. It is also considered to be one of Sweden’s most important cultural, economic, media and political centers and its strategic location makes it open to visitors from all over the world. In case you are looking for a city where you can spend all your holidays, you need to consider Stockholm. People across the globe are dreaming to have an experience of their life just to arrive in this town and tour every corner of it. Probably you have had a very busy schedule in your office or back home and you would like to get some fresh air and an opportunity to get your mind off your job and other responsibilities. Stockholm should be your next tourist destination.

After you explore its 14 islands, you may never stop talking about Stockholm. You could find yourself wanting to come back over and over again. It is reported that people who travel to Stockholm cannot help dreaming about the city and its numerous attractions that it can offer. You may not be able to explore all its gorgeous buildings and architecture as well as parks in one holiday. Some couples usually decide to make it a honeymoon destination and it has worked perfectly well for them. Whenever their time to go back comes, they wish they would turn back the clock. No wonder this city has acquired a new name “Venice of the North” in order to mirror its beauty and splendor.

When you arrive in Stockholm, your eyes quickly meet a beautiful landscape surrounded by water. The parks and other green patches are both splendid and inviting as if they are telling you that they have waited for you all their life. Although Stockholm is located between the oceanic and humid continental zones, its weather is much milder than that of other cities at the same latitude. This implies that if you are a visitor, you do not have to worry about your new experience here. Your tour will just be fine in spite of relatively longer days around midsummer.

The other good thing about Stockholm is that it has warm summers generally while autumn and spring are usually cool or mild. The only major challenge is that winters are cold and could sometimes tend to be snowy.  It is important to keep track of these seasons so that you are in a position to select your favorite season for your holidays. Do not just walk in blindly. In case you are not quite sure of which months are appropriate for you to have optimal experience, you might consider calling. This should happen prior to the tour. You may also choose to use the internet. Nowadays almost everything is online and this means that information is simply a click of the mouse away.

Such preparation is useful as it will enable you to focus on the holiday and not discomforts of weather or climate. If you are able to make the best out of your holidays, it is highly likely that you will want to come back and perhaps bring a friend or family with you. Choose carefully so that you can explore Stockholm’s various attraction sites such as:

a). Cultural sites

• The Royal Place Drottningholm
• The Skogskyrkogarden (The Woodland Cemetery)

b). Literature of authors such as

• Nobel Prize laureate Eyvind Johnson
• poet and songwriter Carl Michael Bellman
• poet and composer Evert Taube
• novelist and dramatist August Strindberg
• novelist Per Anders Fogelström

c). Architecture

• The Tyska kyrkan (the large German church)
• Palaces and mansions
• The Bonde Palace
• The Oxennstierna Palace
• The Riddarhuset (the House of Nobility)
• The Tessin Palace
• Stockholm Palace
• The Episcopal seat of the Bishop of Stockholm
• Storkyrkan Cathedral
• the Riddarholmskyrkan, the oldest building in stockholm

d). Museums

• The National Museum
• The Museum of Modern Art
• The Nordic museum
• Stockholm City Museum
• Royal Coin Cabinet
• The Vasa Museum

e). Art galleries

• Milliken Gallery
• Andréhn-Schiptjenko
• Nordenhake
• Brändström & Stene
• Galleri Magnus Karlsson

The list can go and on but what you need to note is that Stockholm is rich in cultural and architectural attractions that will make your stay here a memorable experience. Each gallery, museum, architecture, cultural site and literature brings to the table its unique set of collections that are worth your attention. They may provide you lesions or ideas that could be useful in your life. Sometimes life takes us through a series of experiences in order to lead us towards the right button. Once you press it, then doors of opportunities begin to open. Therefore as you explore, experience and tour Stockholm, treat every collection with the seriousness it deserves. Do not take anything for granted!

Virgin America review

Virgin America is one of the many companies that are underneath Richard Branson’s Virgin Brand. It is not the same airline as Virgin Atlantic, although you can expect the same level of service as this. The law states that no more than 25% of an American Airline can be held by a foreign investor, therefore the Virgin group only holds at 25% share in the company. It’s current base is in San Francisco Airport, with only one focus city which is located at Los Angeles International Airport.

It was in early 2004 that the first idea of this company began to surface, it’s first name was ‘Virgin USA’ although it was later changed to the current one. Flights were scheduled to begin in 2005, but there was a lack of interest from investors due to the risk of starting up a new airline, the launch date eventually became 2006. Tickets went on sale in 2007 with the first flight being on August 8^th 2007 from New York to Los Angeles.

Virgin America currently flies to thirteen different locations in the United States. This includes popular destinations such as Orlando Airport & Chicago O’Hare Airport. It did offer services to Canada, but these flights were discontinued due to lack of demand from people. There are currently three destinations within Mexico for Virgin America Customers to travel too. The Airline intends to have around thirty destinations on offer by 2016, and they do look set to meet this target.

The inside of Virgin America cabins are absolutely top notch, they offer mood lighting which is supposed to provide a more relaxing atmosphere for their customers. In addition to this there is a selection of inflight entertainment on every flight that they operate. Unlike other airlines they also offer a duel-class system, this includes first class and main cabin. This makes the airline ideal for business users who tend to opt for airlines which offer a higher level of service. You will have to pay for some of the inflight entertainment if you sit in the main cabin, First Class users get all of these services for free when they fly. The main cabin is separated into two ticket prices. Meals and in-flight entertainment are free on ‘Main Cabin Select’, whereas of course you will have to pay with the basic ticket price, although the prices are not too extortionate, unlike other airlines.

There are currently 51 aircraft in the Virgin America fleet, although they have a further 60 on order which will start to be delivered in 2013. This of course shows how much faith the company is placing on rapidly expanding. Despite it being a new company in a rather volatile market it does seem to be going places, and if you excuse the pun, the only way is up.

Virgin America may not have has many destinations as other American Airlines, but they do offer a good service and you can get some fantastic prices on their seats, if you know where to look that is. There are plenty of websites out there that can help you achieve good deals on Virgin America flights.

The beauty of Ljubljana in Slovenia is that it can be enjoyed at a fairly relaxed place. There are no large attractions trying to pull you in. Due to this many tourists seem to give this beautiful city a sip. Of course, you are smart and you know that Ljubljana can be a fantastic holiday destination. Let’s take a look at how we can get here, as well as what there is to see and do once in the city.

The easiest way to get to Ljubljana is by plane if you are located a great distance from Slovenia. Many operators should offer flights directly to Brnik Airport from all major airports around the world. From here it is just a short 27km bus ride to Ljubljana which is where your holiday will begin. Here is a map of Ljubljana.

If you really want to sample the best of the city I suggest taking a tour. Tours run three times a day and depart from the Tourist Information Office. At the time of writing the tours are at 10am, 2pm and 5pm. I suggest taking the later tour in the evening if it’s the middle of winter. The city looks absolutely fabulous when it is lit up at night. From the tourist information office you will be able to pick up a free map of the area, many people wish to tackle the city alone and this is the best way to do it.

You should be able to get around most of the city on foot. Many people also choose to rent bicycles. There is a bus system in place for those slightly longer journeys, it is a cheap system though and shouldn’t be ruled out totally.

One of the most popular sights in the city is the ‘Triple Bridge’. I suggest taking a look in the evening when it is all light up. As the name suggests, it is just three bridges located next door to each other.

Close by is the Old Town, this is packed full of beautiful medieval buildings. Many designer clothing shops can be found here as well as some fantastic places to eat. I suggest grabbing your camera as the small alleys really are a sight to behold.

For fantastic views of the city head to Ljubljana Castle where you can take pictures from up high. It is also a pretty exciting place to explore in its own right.

Metelkova City is a part of the city that is also great to explore. It’s full of bars and nightclubs, although of course due to this it can be very crowded at the weekends.

If you have children then head to Ljubljana Zoo, you will need to take a bus to get here but it does fill up a whole day with fun.

There is a free tour that runs through the city as well. It begins at 11am on the stairs of the Franciscan Church most days of the week, sometimes extra times are added so it is worth checking that out.

There are a lot of museums to also explore within the city, too many to mention here. Particular highlights include the museum of modern art and the national gallery.

If you are looking for a holiday that is a bit different from the norm then I suggest paying Ljubljana a visit. You can either tackle the town yourself or take a tour around the landmarks of the city, whatever option you choose you will end up with a fantastic holiday in Slovenia and it will be yet another destination to tick off your ‘must visit places’.

Travelling to Bucharest, Romania

A popular legend in Romania has it that in olden days, a shepherd named Bucur (whose name translates to “Joy”) lived on the banks of the Dambovita River. He loved to play the flute for people and all loved the wine he produced. The surrounding area was supposedly named Bucharest in honor of him. Whether the tale is true or not, it is known that humans have been living at the site of the modern city since at least 500 BCE, and the first documentation of a city by the name of Bucharest dates to the middle of the 15th century. Bucharest, which is the largest city in the country of Romania in addition to being its capital, is today home to some 2.2 million people. It is a cosmopolitan and vibrant city which around the turn of the 20th century gained the nickname “Little Paris” for its architecture and lifestyle. The city is also known for its extensive collection of historical and heritage-filled buildings.

Nowadays, the city is full of interesting sights and experiences that delight plenty of visitors who travel there every year. Sightseeing is always a good option in this city due to its plenitude of impressive buildings and monuments. One favorite destination is the Calea Victoriei, or Victory Avenue, which was laid out in 1692, paved with oak beams, to connect the Mogosoaia Palace to the Old Princely Court. After the Romanian War of Independence, the street was given its current name in 1878. Some of the greatest sites in the city lie along this street. One is the Cantacuzino Palace, constructed in French style in 1900 to house Grigore Cantacuzino, the country’s then Prime Minister. Today, the palace houses a popular attraction, the George Enescu Museum. Nearby is Revolution Square, which gained notoriety during the televised overthrow of the Communist regime led by Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989. On the square are the Royal Palace, which houses the National Art Museum, the Romanian Athenaeum, the Athenee Palace Hotel and the Kretzulescu Church.

There are plenty of more ancient monuments in the city to see as well. The famed Lipscani District, once a classy residential area, is once again becoming an upscale area. Originially named for the numbers of German immigrants from Leiptzig, the area is a jumble of ancient, cobblestoned streets with buildings ranging in style from the art nouveau to baroque to neoclassical. In olden times, the area was home to guilds of craftspeople, and nowadays, there are still plenty of small storefronts in the area. It is also home to art galleries, sidewalk cafes and coffeehouses. Another ancient monument is the Old Princely Court and Church. This building was in the 1400s the home of the infamous Vlad Tepes, also known as Vlad Dracula. The site is today in ruins, though visitors can see walls, tombstones and a column. The Old Court Museum houses exhibits of the artifacts found at the site, including the earliest documentation of the city’s name (spelled Bucuresti then), signed by Prince Tepes. The church next door dates from the 16th century, and was the coronation site of the city’s princes.

Bucharest is also known for the buildings that stand as a testament to the Communist legacy of Romania. Perhaps the most interesting of these is the building that is today the Parliament Palace. When it was constructed in the 1980s, the colossal building was called the People’s Palace, and held the Communist administration of Nicolae Ceausescu’s government. A guided tour of the huge building (second only to the Pentagon in terms of largest administrative buildings in the world) shows the halls, rooms and sleeping quarters used by the Senate. The other major reminder of the Communist past is the Civic Centre. Also constructed by Ceausescu, the Civic Centre is a sad reminder of the regime, as it was build on ground once covered in a section of the Old Historical Center of the city, which contained ancient religious buildings, ahospital and a sports stadium. The residents in the area were given only one day of notice before the entire section was leveled to build Stalinist apartment buildings.

As the capital of the country, Bucharest is a terrific place from which visitors can travel forth to the rest of the country. Several Medieval sites can be visited from the city by car, bus, or train. Included among these is the Bran Castle, which Bran Stoker immortalized as the stronghold of Dracula. Although there is in fact no such connection between the castle and the old ruler, the castle was in reality the stronghold of Saxons in the area, constructed in the late 14th century. Another castle is the Peles Castle, which is considered by many to be the most beautiful castle in Europe. It is a great example of German new-Renaissance architecture, with spires and gables aplenty. The Medieval town of Brasov is another destination not far from Bucharest. Set against the Southern Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is second only to Bucharest in terms of architectural and historical attractions. Another similar city is Targoviste, which is full of architecture to see. Nearby is the Poenari Fortress, which was Vlad Dracul’s castle in the Transylvania area.

Are you ready for the delightfully interesting and culturally rich destination of Budapest Hungary? With nearly 2 million people calling this dynamic city home, it is situated right in central Hungary. Any good map of Budapest will clearly show that the famous Danube River divides the city, between Pest on one side and Buda on the other. Pest tends to be more flat, while Buda is more indicative of hills. The weather in Budapest is fairly mild with occasionally snowy conditions. The summers can get quite hot with even certain occasions where temperatures have broken the one hundred degree mark between June and August. However, the normal summer temperature is typically around the upper 70’s in Fahrenheit. Typical winter temperatures hover right around the mid 30’s. All and all the climate is very accommodating for travels and visitors to this uniquely interesting city. Keep you map of Budapest handy as you make your way around the city, as you will discover many hidden and interesting features of this city by the river.

There are a number of airlines that offer daily flights in and out of Budapest, so be sure to check with your local airline listings. The flights into Budapest will typically land at Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport. The airport is centrally situated east of centre in the XVII district within Pestszentlorinc. If you are expecting to have a car rental while in Budapest, thee are also a number of well known car rental companies to choose from. If a car rental is not in your plans, then no worry, because Budapest has a well designed public transportation system. Services offered by the Budapest Company BKV will get you where you need to go. With trams, busses and trolley busses, as well as boat and rail – there is always a way to get around while in Budapest. The tram service is a popular option among those familiar with the city. The daily service runs normally between 4:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. every day of the week. Rail service is another excellent way to move around the city with ease. There are several services operated through the company MAV. Consult listings for locations and timetables.

Considered easily one of the most attractive and inspiring cites in all of Europe, some of the more notable points of interest while in Budapest include the Museum of Fine Arts, as well as the Kunsthalle Budapest. All who journey to Budapest must take in the sights of Vajdahunyad Castle, as well as the Hungarian State Opera House. Additional points of interest in the city include such places as the National Szechenyi Library, and the Aquincum Museum. This particular museum houses actual Roman artifacts and remains. If old world churches are of interest to you, consider seeing the Matthias Church, a truly charming structure. The stunning Hungarian Parliament Building houses many interesting artifacts of Hungarian history, including the very notable Crown Jewels of Hungary. Take a rare look at a very large medicinal spa bath, the Szechenyi Medicinal Bath is centrally located in the city. With a rich Jewish history, the city offers the Dohany Street Synagogue – one of the biggest synagogues in the world. Budapest is one of those rare places where you will never grow tired of touring the many interesting places, sights and sounds.

The city of Budapest has a long list of esteemed Universities and Educational Institutions. Included among this list are schools such as Central European University, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, Pazmany Peter Catholic University, and Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design – to name but a few. This city is brimming with culture, boasting well over 200 art galleries and museums. With more than 40 theaters, as well as half a dozen concert halls and even an opera house, this is a place for the genuine appreciator of art and culture in general. Yet, another art museum that should be on any tourist’s list would be the Museum of Applied Arts, an excellent way to spend an afternoon in Budapest. If all of this were not enough in the quest to discover Budapest culture and history, there is also close to 900 various monuments on display through out the city. Budapest will have you awe inspired from the day you land at the airport, and the memories will last a lifetime. Be sure to plan a visit to this rare treasure of a city, and give yourself plenty of time to see as much as possible.

Finally, no discussion of Budapest would be quite complete without mentioning the trademark thermal springs, baths and spas located throughout the city. These spas have a history tracing back to Roman and Turkish periods, The spas are intended for medicinal as well as simply bathing. Going back almost 100 years the city earned the name The City Of Spas. Some of the more notable baths and spas include The Szechenyi Baths, considered among the biggest European bath complexes. This enclosed bath as well as additional outdoor pools dates back nearly 100 years and has a strong Turkish and Greek theme. The Rudas Baths are yet another example of Turkish period baths. While the Gellert Baths that are part of a hotel, are also Turkish in theme and period. Also worth the time to visit is Lukacs Baths. It all comes back to one thought when considering a visit to Budapest, and that is – how does one see it all? Whether you chose the best discount flights to bring you to Budapest, or choose a car rental – one thing is you must do is get out your map of Budapest and start exploring this enchanted city.

Scotland is widely considered to be a land of great history and culture- a land of gentle, rolling hills and ancient, imposing castles. The country is also an oft-visited tourist destination, with up to 5% of the nation’s GDP coming from the tourist industry. This popularity indicates that Scotland is an excellent place to travel to – and there is no better place in Scotland to visit than the city of Edinburgh (the second most popular city for travel in the United Kingdom!). Edinburgh is the capital city of Scotland and also the second largest, with more than 450,000 people living there today (second only to another well-kown city, Glasgow). The city and its surrounding areas hold many attractions for travellers of every sort- whether your interests are cultural, historical, or geographic (or if you just want to experience the night-life), Edinburgh’s rich history and interesting local culture will most certainly have something to offer you.

Like many cities, Edinburgh is divided into neighborhoods that all have their own unique flair and personality. For those interested in the history of the city, the first place to visit is unquestionably Edinburgh’s appropriately named Old Town. Old Town is the oldest section of the city, and houses many fantastic examples of medieval architecture and style. One of the most prominent attractions of Old Town is Edinburgh Castle, this well-preserved fort has been around for at least a thousand years, and continues to attract visitors today. It is home of the Scottish Crown Jewels, and occasionally plays host to various performances and concerts. Another landmark is the Scottish Parliament, where one can observe the Scottish Parliament in session from public areas. The Edinburgh Dungeon provides rides and tours that showcase one of the creepier locations in the city- but if you’re looking for something a little more aboveground, the view from the North Bridge is unparalleled. A traveler searching for souvenirs is sure to enjoy the variety of shops along the Royal Mile, but those looking for something more offbeat might want to try out the offerings from Victoria Street as well.

Old Town, however, is certainly not the only interesting neighborhood in Edinburgh. In 1766, New Town was designed in order to deal with Old Town’s rapidly expanding population, and is generally considered to be exceptionally well laid out even today. New Town is home to some of the best shopping experiences available in the city, from the St. James Centre and Princes Mall to the store fronts along St. Andrew’s Square. Jenners Department Store, the oldest department store in Scotland, is also an excellent experience and not to be missed. For those here to experience the night-life, George’s Street has recently developed a significant amount of bars and clubs, and its proximity to similar developments along Queen Street make it an excellent destination for those searching for a party. These very new developments make New Town a sort of modern “heart” of the city, where those of the younger generations are more likely to be found having a grand old time.

One of the best known attractions of Edinburgh is the Edinburgh Festival. The Edinburgh Festival is comprised of a whole host of events, often officially put on by different organizers but commonly regarded as falling under the same festival. This loose amalgamation of events has made the Edinburgh Festival the single largest yearly festival on Earth, and draws in huge amounts of people every year. The two main parts that make up the Edinburgh Festival are the Edinburgh International Festival and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, each with its own history, personality and style. The International Festival is widely regarded as the greatest compendium of classical arts in existence, and attracts the very best in this type of music and dance. The Fringe, on the other hand, provides a more “alternative” and potentially more varied experience, with much more of a focus on theatrical and comedic performance. This is a reflection of its origins as an unofficial gathering outside of the Edinburgh International Festival, where artists who were not invited or could not afford to perform would set up shop and show off a little.

It would be impossible to chronicle the many dazzling attractions of Edinburgh in one article. Here we have simply touched on the largest cornerstones – however, the city is home to hundreds, maybe thousands of other attractions, festivals and shops, just waiting to be explored by those looking for a new and truly memorable experience. The United Kingdom as a whole, and even Scotland alone, are home to a great concentration of adventurous, interesting and exciting places. Among these memories waiting to be made, Edinburgh stands above the rest of the pack as the foremost place to go for anyone searching for a trip – whether alone, with a group of friends, or taking a family for an interesting and educational trip. With its deep cultural history and exciting culture, the city of Edinburgh should be at the very top of any list of interesting destinations. For thousands of years it has beckoned to travelers, and many today still heed its call to come and experience the crowning city of Scotland.

Not one to deny its tumultuous past, the Serbian capital of Belgrade is putting its troubled decades behind it and emerging as one of the most up-and-coming cities in Europe. Situated at the joining of the Danube and Sava rivers, Belgrade has a history dating back nearly two and a half thousand years. Long the epicentre of Serbian culture and power, Belgraders will be the first to acknowledge that the twentieth century wasn’t overly friendly to the city. From the communist regimes in the years that Belgrade served as the capital of Yugoslavia to the now-infamous presidency of Slobodan Milošević, Belgrade is certainly no stranger to adversity. However, with the 21st century came a new era of freedom and prosperity for Belgrade and Serbia as a whole, and the tribulations of the past have only served to strengthen the character and uniqueness of both the city and her citizens, and today Belgrade enjoys the status of being one of the premier economic and cultural centers of south-eastern Europe, and a travel destination not to be missed.

The city population of Belgrade is over 1.5 million people, making the city a bustling metropolis. Sightseeing opportunities abound all across the relatively compact city center of Belgrade, making it easy and convenient to walk nearly anywhere you need to go. Republic Square is located directly in the middle of the city, making it a natural starting point for your Belgrade expedition. You will notice an interesting blend of architecture throughout the area, with ornate buildings dating back many centuries at odds with the Soviet-esque, brutal block-style buildings that are the legacy of rule during the twentieth century. Belgrade is a city of grand squares, and indeed many of these are in and of themselves an attraction. Should you need to venture out of walking distance, the area also features a popular tram system. Navigating the city is also easier than it may first appear to be, and English is commonly spoken throughout the city, especially by younger Belgraders.

<The most important ancient monuments in the city can be found on the grounds of Belgrade Fortress. While there has been a fortress in one form or another on the grounds since the third century BC, the site we see today was originally constructed by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 535 A.D., the fortress is located in the center of Belgrade in a beautiful, expansive park located directly at the confluence of the Saka and Danube rivers. The most well-preserved section of the fortress is called the Kalemegdan Citadel, and is the focal point of the grounds. For many centuries, the whole of Belgrade existed within the walls of the citadel, and it remains a major landmark for the city to this day. Continuing the rich historical offerings of the city are the Serbian National Museum, which houses hundreds of thousands of works of art from both Serbian and Western European artists including Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. However, if you’re after something more local, the Historical Museum of Serbia, located next door to the country’s National Assembly, has the world’s most expansive collection of Serbian art and historical artifacts dating back more than two thousand years. If that isn’t enough, travel to Belgrade would not be complete without a trip to St Sava Church, the largest Eastern Orthodox church in the entire world.

Belgrade also features some of the tastiest food in south east Europe. Carnivores can rejoice in the ubiquitous Burek, which are pastries that include anything from meat and cheese to vegetables and fruits. Also not to be missed is ćevapi, which are packages of minced meat which are grilled street-side and spiced to taste. Belgraders also have a love of good beer and wine, and travellers will be very pleased with the price of delicious, Serbian-brewed lagers available all across the city. When at a pub in Belgrade, it is quite common and accepted to look your companions in the eye as you clink your glasses and let out an enthusiastic “Živeli!” (Cheers). Belgrade also has a booming and historic cafe culture, which is most evident in the quaint and remarkably picturesque Bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, whose cafe and artist-lined streets have often been compared to similar districts in Paris and Prague. The entire neighbourhood is pedestrianized as well, only adding to the timeless quality of the winding, cobblestone streets.

It is often said that the hottest fire forges the strongest steel. In no place is this more apparent than Belgrade. The character and uniqueness of the city, combined with the warmth and welcoming of Serbian hospitality despite decades of adversity, make Belgrade a truly one-of-a-kind destination. In addition to the plentiful and memorable attractions, Belgrade remains a very budget-friendly destination, making it ideal for the young traveller. In Belgrade you find an irrepressible spirit, as evidenced by the numerous music festivals and art exhibitions you’ll find scattered about the city throughout the year. The city is continuing to go about the exciting and invigorating process of re-discovering and re-defining its identity, not shackled to the past, but rather looking forward to the bright future. As a traveller in this day and age, it is truly a unique opportunity to visit this captivating city and be able to witness this re-birth first hand.