Valencia City Guide

Situated on the East of Spain, South of Barcelona, Valencia is the third most important and populated city in Spain with an urban population of over 800,000. Despite being close to the Mediterranean coast, it is not a typical beach city and is commonly known to have lived “with its back to the sea” by the locals.

Valencia is well served by plane, coach and train, both nationally and internationally and in the city, it is easy to get around by bus, metro and bicycle. The city centre is separate from the coast and it is easy to enjoy a full holiday in Valencia without even seeing the beach, however, bus and metro services offer good links there.

For one of the most modern looking areas of Europe, the forward looking City of Arts and Science (Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències) looks similar to a 1980s view of the 21st century. The odd styled buildings host an IMAX Cinema, a Science Museum, a Planetarium, an Aquarium and, in the near future, the Arts Museum. This part of the city is famed for its architecture by Santiago Calatrava.

The Barri del Carme neighbourhood is ideal for strolling through, showing you the transition from a forgotten, worn down area to a lively and diverse neighbourhood. This old centre has a number of shops and cafes and an interesting mix of people. Also in the centre of Valencia is the Seu, a strange cathedral with an interesting shape and design. A visit to the top of the Micalet tower gives a good view over the city.

The highlight of any visit to Valencia has to be the main local food – Paella. The bars and restaurants that serve this Spanish dish, which originated in the coastal city, make it better than in any other city. It’s worth visiting one with an outdoor area as there’s nothing better than eating good Paella in the mild evening.

Valencia is most enjoyable toward the end or beginning of the summer. The weather is warm, but not unbearable at that time and the evenings are pleasant. This interesting city has a similar character to Barcelona, but without the intrusive style – there are plenty of quite and relaxing areas, and the beach is nicer too!

Vic Travel Guide

This small University City in Catalunya, Spain has an interesting history and is covered with beautiful buildings and landmark. The Pyrenees lie to the north of the city, providing a nice backdrop throughout the year.

In past times, Vic was called Ausa by the Romans, as found on Iberian coins found in the area. The city sat in the Spanish Marches, separating the Frankish and Islamic forces in the 8th and 9th centuries and was destroyed in 788 due to a Muslim incursion. After the attack, one quarter was rebuilt and named Vicus Ausonensis, from which the name Vic was derived. Wilfred the Hairy repopulated the city in 878 after he gained control over the high part of the city and gave up the lowest part to the bishop. Vic was then ruled by the count of Barcelona as well as the bishop of Vic.

Vic currently has a population of just under 40,000 and has a bustling, but friendly city centre and a large historic quarter. Placa Major provides a fantastic central point, lined with small bars and shops. The pastille coloured buildings and sandy ground give the look of an oil painting. Toward the river is the church and convent of Saint Domenec, an interesting example of baroque architecture which perhaps suffers from its proximity to the main road. Built around 1723 by Jacint Morato Soler, the convent has beautiful detail and originality and the upper part is home to the Junyent and Subira School of Art.

The city’s Cathedral sits in an almost understated part of the city, surrounded with historic buildings and a small square, the building has a mixture of styles, ranging from Romanesque to neo-classical.

In terms of age, the Roman Temple is the most important monument in the city. Built at the start of the 2nd century, it spent a large amount of time covered over, forming part of the Castle of the Montcadas, which was built in the late 11th century. This interesting building, which was uncovered in 1882 provides another landmark in this historic city.

Whilst the city’s size is small, Vic’s attractions are concentrated into a compact space, making this ideal for walking through. It is well served by train and bus and can be reached from Barcelona and Girona airports. Vic is a wonderful place to visit for a day trip and is comfortable enough to stay at for a longer period.

Plymouth Travel Guide

Plymouth is a city located in Devon, South West England between the River Tamar and the River Plym. Although it has an interesting and long history, it was heavily bombed during World War 2 and a large amount of buildings were wiped out. The area was rebuilt soon after, but a many areas were built quickly, giving the city a grey colour and unattractive style throughout. The early part of the 20th century has seen a large regeneration process going on in Plymouth, turning it into one of the better coastal cities in the south.

The local surroundings work well for Plymouth as it has arguably the most impressive natural ports in the world and the green hills of Dartmoor on the other side. Looking over the coast is the Hoe, a well maintained, pretty piece of land, ideal for relaxing on a summer day. From the ground, it is easy to see the water as well as two hills, one on each side, but for a view over the whole city, Smeaton’s tower is well worth a climb. This unique tower is a red and white striped lighthouse, which was originally constructed on a nearby coast, but was relocated to the Hoe and named after its creator. You can climb the spiral steps for a small price to see a fantastic view.

Further east along the coast lies the Barbican, a historical part of the city with interesting buildings, a harbour and the Mayflower steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers left England from to sail to the United States. The amazing National Marine Aquarium is across a small bridge from the steps, offering a variety of sea life on show in great sized tanks.

Further into the city, away from the coast, the majority of buildings are shops. This part of the city is being redeveloped, changing it from a grey, boring area to a modern, attractive part of the city. A formerly run down area – Drakes Circus is now a large shopping mall with a strange design. Lying across the road from a bombed church, its ruins left as a memorial to those who lost their lives in the city during the war.

Whilst Plymouth may not seem like a historical city in parts, there are so many interesting stories surrounding almost every part of the city. There is a distinct difference between the coastal part and the centre, and whether used as a hub for a holiday through Dartmoor, or as a city break, Plymouth is an interesting, improving and friendly city.

Oxford City Guide

Situated 50 miles (80km) to the west of London, Oxford is a historical city and county town of Oxfordshire in South East England. It is the oldest University City in the country and together with Cambridge, it represents Oxbridge – the elite English academic establishment.

A haven of tradition and high class history, Oxford’s buildings demonstrate an example of every British architectural period since the arrival of the Saxons. Known as the “city of dreaming spires” due to the harmonious architecture of the university buildings, it has become one of the most historically interesting cities in the country.

Oxford sits on the rivers Cherwell and Thames, which meet south of the city centre and has a population of just under 165,000. It can, however fill up in and around tourist season, especially around the landmarks.

The majority of Oxford’s attractions are centred around the University. The amazing Bodleian Library is the main research libraries and is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. Opened in 1602, it is second in size to London’s British Library. The Radcliffe Camera, based in Radcliffe Square is a round, beautifully designed building which functions as a reading room for students.

A small, interesting bridge for students of Hertford College – Hertford Bridge has become popularly known as the “Bridge of Sighs”.

For a full insight into the city and to find some hidden gems, it may be a good idea to use a tour guide, or the city’s tour bus service. The busses pull up outside the main train station and go throughout Oxford’s interesting and historical streets. By using that service, you will be able to find out about the many traditions around the Colleges. It is also worth going up the Carfax tower in the city centre, for a good view. From there you will see almost all of Oxford including churches, colleges and the shopping area.

Oxford is easily accessible by train, bus and car. The nearest airports are Birmingham and the London airports. The main train station is a short walk from the city centre, but the bus service is good.

This beautiful, interesting and historical town feels like a huge open air museum. There is something to see on almost every corner and the buildings are so well taken care of. The only downfall is that it isn’t particularly diverse in terms of attractions. Everything is centred around the university, and there is not a lot else to see. There is a nice atmosphere around the area, but is a student city and once you have visited a few of the colleges, they can blend into one. It is however well worth a trip as it is unlike any other city in the world.

Granada Travel Guide

Historically, Granada is one of the most important cities in Spain, and possibly in Europe. This mid-sized location based in Andalusia, at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, in the south of the country. The area is over 700 metres above sea level yet is a fair distance from the Mediterranean coast.

The city has a rich and multicultural history, which is still well preserved in the many interesting streets, landmarks and buildings. In modern times, Granada has become a student city with a good nightlife as well, but the overall look of the area is has not been compromised.

Unlike Seville and Cordoba, which are also based in Andalusia, Granada has a mild temperature, easier to bare for the un-adapted tourist. The city also has far more history and culture on offer than nearby Malaga.

Granada is served by bus, plane and train, however, internal and external transport is not particularly fast. The city centre is small enough to walk, although the surrounding parts are a bit more spread out.

The city holds a number of interesting historical buildings including the 16th century Cathedral de Granada and the old university as well as a number of Arab style streets dating back to the 14th century, known as El Albayzin.

The highlight, of Granada, has to be La Alhambra. Made up of the fortress, the palace and the garden, this medieval complex overlooking the city is considered to be on par with the Seven Wonders of the World. It was home of the Nasrid sultans, high government officials, servants of the court and elite soldiers fro the 13th and 14th century. It is advisable to book tickets for the Alhambra at least a day in advance, as queues can be long.

Granada is a must visit part of Spain and is based in one of the most interesting regions. Plenty of tourists flock to the city to see La Alhambra, however, the area doesn’t seem crowded or hectic. The atmosphere, the heat, the history and culture make this one of the most enchanting parts of Europe.

Brighton City Guide

This charming beach town on the Coast of Sussex, England makes up the majority of the city of Brighton and Hove. Located almost directly South of London, Brighton has a plenty to do, but is ideal for escaping the noise and crowds of the country’s capital.

The city has a strong bohemian style which can be explained by the large gay population in Kemp Town. For this reason, Brighton is known as the gay capital of Britain. The proximity to London and the sea has also attracted media and music types, creating a fantastic nightlife.

Getting to Brighton is easy as the city is well served by train with direct services to and from London throughout the day. Gatwick airport can also be reached by rail in around 30 minutes.

Brighton is known for its pebble beach which may not be as comfortable as a sandy beach is, but with a number of small shops and fish and chip cafes scattered along the walkway, it has a certain character which seems to have progressed from the classic British beach town style of the 1950s. The city has two large piers, Brighton Pier, AKA the Palace Pier, which holds a number of games and attractions. The burned out wreck of the West Pier sits on the other side of the beach, but is out of bounds to the public.

Further inland, adjacent to the pier, the Sea Life Centre is the oldest working aquarium left in the world. It features a walkthrough underwater tunnel and a number of interesting sea creatures.

The Lanes is an area of small shops with thin, interesting streets, reflecting the layout of the original fishing village of Brighton. Further up is The North Laine which is a collection of alternative streets and buildings with shops selling alternative products like bongs, potions, and fire staffs.

For an interesting piece of architecture, The Royal Pavilion is a wonderfully strangely designed building, transformed between 1815 and 1823 by the architect John Nash. The Indian themed exterior of the pavilion stands out compared to the surroundings and looks fantastic on a sunny day or in the evening. Guided tours are available and allow visitors to see the Chinese style décor inside.

Brighton is an interesting city with great character and plenty to see. The attractions and buildings are varied throughout the area but the best part of visiting is to wonder through the streets, taking in the culture and looking at the strange shops on offer. One drawback to the city’s relaxed style is the constant pretentious feeling of the people and places, however for a short break, this doesn’t become an issue. Brighton and Hove has gained a fully justified reputation as one of Britain’s finest beach cities and is well worth a visit on a sunny day.

Antwerp City Guide

Antwerp City Guide
Antwerp is a charming city in the Flanders region of Belgium, on the bank of the river Scheldt which is linked to the North Sea by the estuary of Westerschelde. With a population of over 400,000, it is the second largest one of the most important cities in the country as well as one of the most important ports in Europe.

The name Antwerp comes from “ann de werpe” or “at the throw” in Dutch, referring to where the river throws its sand. Antwerp was one of the most important financial centres in the world during the 16th century and traders from all over Asia and Europe sold and bought goods there. The city’s rich culture throughout history means it has a large number of interesting and extravagant buildings.

Antwerp is well served by train, bus and plane both nationally and internationally and public transport is efficient, well run and good value, however, the city centre is compact enough to walk through.

The most notable aspect of Antwerp is the relaxed, safe and friendly atmosphere with a slightly gritty style throughout, however, the city has a good amount of landmarks and interesting buildings.

The Cathedral of Our Lady towers over the city, adding a lot of character to the surrounding area. This clean, beautiful building is one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe. Built in 1351 it stands at over 400ft tall.

The City Hall/Old Market Square is the historical centre of the city. Typically medieval guild houses surround the Market Square, typical to Flemish historical towns. The city hall was designed in an architectural style almost exclusively found in this region of Europe – a combination of Gothic and early Renaissance.

Lying on the bank of the river is the Het Steen- a charming and small medieval castle. Previously functioning as a fortification for the city, it currently houses a naval museum and adds an extra piece of scenery to the river Schelde.

It is worth noting that the city, much like Amsterdam, has its own red light district. This relatively small area of the city is safe enough during the day, but may be worth taking care in during the late hours.

Antwerp is a charming, interesting and attractive city with plenty to see compared to its size. The area benefits from a fantastic location, mild weather and friendly people, making it a wonderful place to visit or live in.