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.

The Swiss Alps

Ah, 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.

The 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.

This 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.

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.

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 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.

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. Sicily 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 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.

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.

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!

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

Sofia 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.