Paddy's Travel Blogs

Valencia City Guide

2010-05-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

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

2010-03-18T14:23:00.000-07:00

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

2010-02-13T02:35:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-06T09:56:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-31T02:16:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-25T16:02:00.000-08:00

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

2010-01-21T14:53:00.000-08:00

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.

Andorra La Vella Travel Guide

2010-01-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

This small city is the capital of Andorra, a small country between Spain and France in the Pyrenees. With a population of just over 22,000, the whole place seems to be crammed between two mountains and often experiences cold and snowy weather.

Andorra La Vella, meaning Andorra the Old is split into the old town and the new town. The newer part of the city has a number of shops whilst the older has historical buildings and landmarks. The Church of Sant Esteve is part of a picturesque area of the old town and dates back to the 12th century. Nearby is the Casa de la Val is the seat of the Consell General and dates back to the 16th century.

Shops make up a major part of the city and shoppers can benefit from the low tax. A number of electronic and clothing stores are scattered through the new town – enough to give the place a feel of a large city.

For a great view over the city, the ideal way is to walk across the Rec del Solà and Rec de l’Obac. These thin paths run along the side of the mountains and are illuminated at night. With some fantastic views of the surrounding area and buildings, these paths, both around 2.5km long are well worth a walk.

Andorra La Vella is a small city, and it is easy to see most or all of it within a day. The surroundings, however are breathtaking and the style and atmosphere is different to anywhere else.

Bath City Guide

2010-01-13T11:17:00.001-08:00

Bath is one of, if not the most beautiful locations in England. With a population of 80,000, this small city has a high level of importance and became a World Heritage site in 1987. A rich history and culture attracts many tourists there every year, making it very busy in parts during the summer months as well as around Christmas.

The city was built around a spring which made up the Roman Baths. In 60-70 AD a temple was built and over the following 300 years a bathing complex was created. A defensive wall was built around the area, but after Roman withdrawal in the fifth century, the baths fell into disrepair. In 1676, a former student of Oxford University named Thomas Guidott moved to Bath and showed an interest in the springs. He then brought the water’s health giving properties to the attention of many people. Following this, the aristocracy began visiting the area. By the time of the 1801 census, the city had reached a population of just over 40,000, making it one of the largest in Britain. In the Second World War Bath suffered three air raids, killing many residents and damaging a lot of buildings. Regeneration work has been taking place ever since.

Getting into the city by car can be difficult during the summer as Bath is a small place and attracts a large amount of tourism. Queues can build up on the roads, especially coming from the London direction. Bath Spa is the city’s main train station and is well served from a number of locations throughout the country. The closest airport is Bristol International, on the outskirts of Bristol - Bath’s neighbouring city. From the airport a bus runs to the Bristol Temple Meads train station and from there are regular connections to Bath.

One of the main attractions of Bath is walking through the small streets on either side of the main shopping area. The city has a number of local and interesting shops and at Christmas time has an outdoor market near to the Abbey. The bustling shopping streets are contrasted by the city’s parks which are scattered around. The main one of these is Royal Victoria Park, which was opened by Princess Victoria in 1830. This is overlooked by the Royal Crescent, a road of 30 houses built between 1767 and 1744 which is a fantastic example of Georgian architecture. Along with the Circus, it creates a key shape and is the area for some of the most expensive houses in the city.

In the city centre runs the river Avon and over this is Pultney Bridge. Around here is the Bath Rugby stadium which is known as the Rec. Rugby is a popular sport in the area and on match days and the atmosphere is energetic. This is helped by the central location of the stadium.

Towering over the city, the Bath Abbey provides a central point. Founded in the 7th century, this is one of the largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the south west of England. Next to this is the Roman Bath Museum, which shows visitors information about the baths and allows them to see them, however, swimming there is not permitted.

Bath is one of the best places to visit for a traditional view of British upper class life. The city is well preserved, interesting and cosmopolitan. It is small enough to see in a short amount of time, but beautiful enough to make you want to stay much longer.

Bern City Guide

2010-01-10T02:06:00.001-08:00

Despite being the capital of Switzerland Bern is only the fifth largest city in the country. With a population of around 130,000, this charming venue is smaller than Zurich, Geneva, Basel and Lausanne. Despite the size, Bern is an important city with a remarkable design and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Bern was founded in 1191 by Duke Berchtold V of Zähringen. The Duke then named the city after a bear he had killed. The bear is an important part of Bern’s image as it is featured on its emblem and a major tourist attraction in the city. A pit with two of the animals enclosed is situated near the river and is open 08:00-17:30 in the summertime and 09:00 to 16:00 in the winter. The pit is likely to be expanded in the future with the possibility of the bears being able to swim in the river.

Bern has a rich history which I documented in the Berne Historical Museum – the second largest in the country. For a political view of the city, the Federal Palace of Switzerland, known as Bundeshaus offers guided tours when the government is not in session.

Throughout the city there are small alien graffiti mosaics. These can be found on rooftops, walls and bridges and were declared in 1998 by the anonymous artist known as ‘Invader’. These pieces are shown on certain maps and tours through the city.

Near the centre of the old town is the interestingly designed Zytglogge. Built around the turn of the 13th century, this features an hourly display of early technology with a wonderful animation. Minutes before the hour, music will play along with a drumming jester. On the hour, bears and a king appear. The city’s tourist office offers guided tours of the clock tower, showing the mechanics behind the show.

The city’s international airport is slightly south of the city and offers flights to many major European cities. From the airport, a shuttle bus drives to the central train station and taxis are also available. The central train station is interestingly designed and offers connections to most major cities in Switzerland.

Although Bern is not the largest city in Switzerland, it has the importance, beauty and design expected of a European capital city as well as the cleanliness and safe atmosphere common throughout the country.

Frankfurt City Guide

2010-01-07T10:59:00.000-08:00

Frankfurt is one of the only four cities in Europe have a significant amount of high rise skyscrapers. Despite being only the fifth largest city in Germany, it is the finance and transport capital of the country.

The many skyscrapers help, but don´t solely create a modern look and feel to the city. Frankfurt was severely bombed in World War II, with around 5,500 residents killed. Post was reconstruction took place in a modern, simplified style. A few landmark buildings were recreated historically, however, these were still simplified. Despite the modern look to Frankfurt, a number of touristic sights are scattered throughout, including the medieval city, which, post-war was the largest in Germany. This area has been reconstructed, much like the rest of Frankfurt, but still provides a picturesque setting.

The River Main runs through the city and a walk along its bank provides a pleasant route. Slightly away from this, the Roemer can be found. This is the city hall, located on the Römerberg. Made up of nine houses, acquired by the council from a wealthy merchant in 1405, and partially destroyed in World War II, this provides one of the most historical looking settings in Frankfurt. A short walk from this leads to St. Bartholomew´s Cathedral, which was originally constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Historical buildings are not as prominent in Frankfurt as the modern skyscrapers. The tallest of these is the 259 metre high Commerzbank Tower, which is formerly Europe’s tallest Building. Behind this in height is the Messeturm, which stands at 257 metres. Both of these towers however are not open to the public. The Maintower, which is 200 metres tall, has an observation deck at the top for the public.
If you are looking for a historical city with old buildings, Frankfurt may not be the best choice for a touristic visit. This multicultural, modern place, however, does have a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing. Europe doesn´t offer many opportunities to see so many skyscrapers in such a small space. Frankfurt presents the chance to see a business city, which attracts immigrants from all over the world, providing culture, style and impressively tall buildings.

Füssen Travel Guide

2010-01-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

This small German town in the region of Bavaria is famous for the enchanting castles on its outskirts. Thousands of visitors flock to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau every year, whilst paying little or no attention to the charming surroundings of this friendly area.

Lying to the east of Füssen, Castle Neuschwanstein is reachable by a quick bus ride or a long walk. The building was commissioned in the 19th Century by Ludwig II of Bavaria and designed by a theatrical set designer, rather than an architect. Opening in 1886, over 50 million people have visited, making it one of Europe’s most popular tourist attractions.

Within a short distance of Neuschwanstein is the childhood residence of Ludwig II, Hohenschwangau castle. Build by King Maximilian II between 1832 and 1837, this was previously the site for the Fortress Schwanstein. The medieval fortress was originally built by a family of knights and dates back to the 12th Century.

Various churches are situated around the town, and the buildings in the centre have a distinct Bavarian style, but much of the attraction of Füssen comes from the natural beauty in its surroundings. For those who enjoy hiking, there are routes of mixed difficulty levels all around. Mountains surround picturesque lakes throughout the area, creating relaxing, yet stimulating treks.

For the evenings, a number of restaurants are scattered around the town, especially between the train station and centre. Füssen isn’t known for it’s food, but due to the amount of tourism in the area, there are a good amount of restaurants of different styles. For drinking, many Bavarian beers are available in pubs in the centre. Arguably some of the best beers in Europe come out of the Bavarian area, so it is recommended to at least try one.

Füssen is not large enough to provide attraction for a long holiday, however, it is worth visiting the town, rather than just the castles nearby. A direct train goes to and from Munich allowing the possibility of a Munich/Füssen holiday, giving an interesting mix of a bustling city and quiet town, both showing different sides of the wonderful Bavarian culture.

Geneva City Guide

2010-01-03T03:46:00.000-08:00

Geneva is known for being a global city as it is one of the major centres of international diplomacy. Although French is the official language spoken in the city, English, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese and Arabic are also prominent as well as German and Italian.

Surrounded by the Alps and the Jura mountain ranges, the city is located on the South-Western side of Lake Geneva and is within a short journey of France and Italy.

Getting to Geneva is fairly easy. Many plane companies, including Easyjet offer flights to destinations all over Europe and a couple of flights go trans-Atlantic. The city is well served by train with services to locations all over Switzerland as well as some parts of France and Italy. There are also night connections to Barcelona with a journey duration of nine and a half hours.

One advantage the city has, due to it’s proximity to a large lake is the possibility of boat travel to and from various ports around the coast line.

Travel within Geneva can be done by bus, train, tram, bike, walking and by car. Driving is especially useful if you intend on visiting the nearby mountains.

One of the more prominent attractions in Geneva is the Jet d'Eau. This is a jet which pumps water around 140metres into the air. Once an occasional pressure release for a power generator, locals were so impressed with the way it towered above the city, it was made into a permanent fixture when a pump was installed in 1891. The surrounding area gets soaked with water.

The city’s old town holds the towering Cathédrale St-Pierre, a part-Romanesque, part-Gothicbuilding just off Grand-Rue and is where John Calvin preached from 1536 to 1564. The Palais de Nations is the European arm of the UN. One of the most impressive aspects of this important building is the Assembley hall, but it is also worth visiting the fantastically designed gardens and viewing the large collection of art. Various tours are available.

Geneva is truly an international city, however, despite the cosmopolitan feel of the city, it doesn’t have the style one would expect. Here you can meet people from every part of the world in one place, but generally, it is not the liveliest of places. There are, however a number of attractions to see, and it is friendly and safe. The lake provides a good focal point to the city and on a clear day, the mountains provide a beautiful backdrop. Whilst the city does not have a huge amount to do, it works well as a hub for being based in whilst visiting the nearby mountains, lake locations and cities in Switzerland, France and Italy.

Gimmelwald Travel Guide

2010-01-02T03:33:00.000-08:00

This small mountain village just above Stechelberg in Switzerland has a population of less than 200, but attracts thousands of tourists every year. Visitors flock from all over the world to this tiny hotspot to experience the beautiful views, interesting culture and fresh mountain air.

The main occupations in Gimmelwald are farming and tourism, however, the village also had a school and firehouse. As well as a few small hotels and guesthouses, a popular hostel offers low budget accommodation in a fun and friendly environment. Nearby Mürren, a slightly larger village has a lot more business life with a number of shops including a supermarket.

The main activity on offer in Gimmelwald is hiking. Trails in the area vary from relaxing strolls to tough, steep climbs. Breathtaking mountain views, stunning waterfalls and in some months, snowy hills surround the village, giving fantastic photo opportunities and motivation to walk. A walk up the hill to Mürren presents the opportunity for paragliding as well as skiing during the cold seasons.

Getting to Gimmelwald is an adventure in itself. Public transport runs from Bern, however, this is by two trains, a bus and a cable car. A national train runs between Bern and Interlaken Ost, and from here a local service connects to Lauterbrunnen. A bus takes passengers from there to the Stechelberg cable car station. A short, but spectacular assent from here leads to the edge of Gimmelwald.

Despite the location and size of Gimmelwald, there is a wonderful atmosphere and plenty to do. The mixture of cheap and more expensive accommodation in the area presents a fantastic opportunity for anyone to experience the culture, surroundings and lifestyle of this charming mountain village.

Cordoba Travel Guide

2009-12-16T14:07:00.000-08:00

Stepping through the large stone archways into Cordoba’s old town felt like walking into a completely different city, region or even country.

When I arrived at the very modern train station, this loud, bustling building could never have prepared me for what the Spanish city of Cordoba has to offer. Due to the location, I had to walk a fair distance to reach the touristic centre. My first view of this historically important Andalusian area was of busy roads, bland buildings, concrete pavements and very little sign of the ancient landmarks I was hoping to see.

The grey and dusty road soon lead me to an old but perfectly preserved wall with a large archway cut into it. On first glance through to the old town, I could see thin winding streets lined with what I assumed to be shops due to the central location. On closer inspection, it became clear that they were houses, closely packed together on lanes barely wide enough for a car to fit through.

Armed with my map, I found navigating the maze like streets was easier than anticipated. The obvious focal point, towering above the houses, bars, shops and hotels is the breath taking Mezquita. Setting the scene for the rest of the city, this Roman Catholic Cathedral and former Mosque showcases exquisite architecture, high towers and arches externally with a mystical design and atmosphere inside. Red and white striped arches held up by strong pillars in perfectly straight lines seem to go for miles into the distance like a dimly lit stone forest. Despite the basic shape of the hall, it was easy to get disorientated there.

After returning into the sunny but fresh environment of the pedestrianised street outside the Cathedral, this condensed touristic city leads me downhill toward the river. South East of the Mezquita, a Roman Bridge is introduced by the tall Puerte del Puente or bridge gate. I walked through the Puerte onto the long, wide Roman construction above the river Guadalquivir.

As I arrived to the other side, I was greeted by a small, round tower – the Calahorra, which also serves as the Museum of Three Cultures. Despite the size, the Calahorra tower is packed with models, information, paintings and pictures brilliantly narrated by the recordings remotely played into headsets. After being packed full of information on Cordoba’s history, layout, architecture and culture, I returned to the north side of the river.

As I walked through the thin winding streets of what is estimated to have been Europe’s largest city during the 10th Century, I noticed the bustling atmosphere was running into the night. In typical Spanish style, streets and restaurants bellowed out the lively sound of locals and visitors enjoying the mild evening in the beautiful surroundings.

I made my way North in hope of finding a suitable place to eat, occasionally stopping to see the fountain decorated streets. Stumbling across the Plaza de la Corredera I was taken by the immediate impact of the festival atmosphere. The pink and white coloured flats surround a large open square, scattered with seats from tapas bars and restaurants at all sides.

The faint sound of traditional Spanish music coming from one of the bars was almost drowned out by the sea of chatter, flowing across the courtyard. I walked into the centre and scoured the restaurants, searching for somewhere with empty seats. Once I settled on one and seated myself outside, I looked through the menu.

Andalusian food is fairly typical of the rest of Spain. My choice wasn’t the most adventurous – Patatas Bravas and Tortilla with a local beer for refreshment. Despite the range of food on offer, the tiring Andalusian heat made it difficult to eat a lot, so Tapas dishes were ideal.

During the evening, two street performers appeared in the middle of the Plaza, performing tricks including poi and fire blowing, whilst taking turns to stand on each other to add to the effect. The big bubble like flame balls added a quick moment of light to the area. Cheers rose up from the diners enjoying the food and entertainment of the dark evening as local residents in the flats on the top floors above restaurants and bars looked on from their balconies.

My journey back to the hostel took me through the residential zone, past the Roman bridge and up past the Mezquita. The Spanish sunshine had gone for the day and darkness covered the city, however, the mild temperature made it comfortable to walk home without a jacket.

After a long sleep, the Andalusian region had awoken and was busy in the warm but fresh climate. I made my way through the winding streets and through the archway in the city wall, leaving Cordoba’s old town and heading toward the train station, ending my short stay in this enchanting, historical city.

Marseille City Guide

2009-12-11T11:10:00.000-08:00

Located on the south-east of France on the Mediterranean Coast, Marseille is the largest commercial port in France. As a result of the proximity to the sea, many of the population are immigrants, giving the city a cosmopolitan and gritty feel. As a large European city, it is important to keep your wits about you, but no more than in Paris or Lyon. The character is immediately noticeable here and everywhere has a wonderful realism about it.

Marseille and its surrounding areas have been inhabited for almost 30,000 years as paintings in nearby underwater caves date back to between 27,000 and 19,000BC. The city was founded by Greeks in 600BC, making it the oldest in France.

Due to its location, Marseille has hot dry summers and mild winters. July and August are the hottest months whilst January and February are the coldest. In winter and spring, Marseille is hit by a harsh icy wind from the Alps, this is known as the Minstral.

Culturally, Marseille is very strong. As a regional centre for entertainment, it has various theatres, museums and music venues. The main cultural attraction is the opera house, located fairly centrally. Six or seven operas are held there every year, attracting a number of people from all over the south. Another important part of the city’s musical culture is hip hop as many Marseille based groups have a strong presence throughout France and are also known in various other countries.

In the city centre, the Vieux Port (old port) is a large touristic attraction. Guarded by two forts, it is one of the main venues for eating and one of the more obvious areas to Marseille. In the inlet to the port lies the Phare de Sainte Marie – a lighthouse which provides picturesque views. From the port, La Canebière – a dominant street runs eastward through the city, this is where the majority of the attractions are situated.

Further away from the city is the Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-la-garde. Built by the architect Esperandieu, this is situated in the hills and offers views over Marseille and its surrounding area. Another out of city venue is the Stade Velodrome - home of Olympique Marseille, the city’s football club and one of the top teams in France.

For external transport, Marseille is served by an international airport located in Marigne, Saint-Charles railway station and an extensive network of motorways. Internally, the city is served by tram bus and a two line metro. The internal transport system works well, however, the metro does not cover a huge amount of space.

Marseille benefits from its Mediterranean location and size. It has a lot of energy and a mixture of cultures, as well as good weather. This gritty, rough around the edges city has an amazing realism and along with fantastic architecture creates a beautiful venue, not just created for aristocracy.

Milan Travel Guide

2009-12-09T10:31:00.001-08:00

Known all over the world, the Italian city of Milan is an important business and fashion hot spot. Unfortunately, it is not as impressive as a touristic destination. Despite the high amount of visitors the city receives, there are only a handful of good attractions and this industrial area doesn’t feel as welcoming as other major European cities.

Milan was founded in the 7th century BC by Celtic tribes and was conquered in 222BC by the Romans. The city was then built up and became a major centre for transport and trading. Later on, in the 13th century, Milan was under the rule of the Sforza and the Visconti families. This allowed the city to flourish towards what it is today – the Italian fashion and finance capital.

Unlike many other touristic centres, Milan is not the type of place that can be wandered around to find attractions. There are a limited amount of sights here, although of those on offer, some are worth visiting the city for.

Milan’s main landmark is the large Gothic cathedral known as the Duomo. Admission to the 40,000 capacity building is free but there is a fee for climbing to the roof. Nearby to this is the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a beautifully designed shopping centre that leads to the world famous Teatro alla Scalla opera house.

Other attractions around the city include the San Siro stadium – home to both AC and Inter Milan, which are two of Europe’s top football teams. Famous art pieces are on show in the city’s Pinacoteca di Brera and Cenacolo Vinciano art museums.

To fly to the city there are a number of nearby options. 50km northwest of Milan is the Malpensa airport which offers many international flights. Linate is around 7km east of the city and has domestic and European connections. North east of Milan, close to Bergamo is the Orio al Serio airport which offers many discount flights.

For rail travel into the city, the main hub is Milan Central which offers various connections to local and national destinations. The Stazione Porta Garibaldi and Stazione Nord offer regional trains to local towns and villages.

Milan is a place to visit for anyone wanting to spend a lot of money on clothes in the city’s many high street shops. For the regular tourist, Milan feels rather unsatisfying. The Duomo is spectacular and other attractions are around, but the city feels more industrial than touristic.

Montpellier City Guide

2009-12-08T11:24:00.000-08:00

This city in the south of France is 10 kilometers inland from the Mediterranean Sea, situated on hilly ground. Whilst it is based near the coast, it does not have the style of a typical city in the area, like Marseille and Nice, with are further east from Montpellier and have beaches in close proximity to their city centres. Beaches which are nearby to Montpellier are reachable by bus, however, not on foot.
First mentioned in 985, Montpellier became prominent during the 10th Century as a trading centre. In the 19th Century, the city developed into an industrial centre and during the 1980s and 1990s a number of redevelopment projects took place, raising awareness about the area to potential habitants.

The city is served by train to its main station – St Roch. The closest airport is Montpellier-Mediterranée, which is situated in the town of Mauguio. Two tram lines cross the city, one holding blue trams, the other with red, yellow and green. These operate until midnight, making travelling through Montpellier easy at most times of the day.

Place de la Comédie provides a fairly central point in the city. First mentioned in 1755, the area is named after the opera house located there. The fountain of Three Graces sits in the centre of this beautiful focal point of the city. Close to Place de la Comédie is the Musée Fabre, an art museum which is classified as a Musée de France by the French Ministry of Culture.

Other historical buildings in Montpellier include Saint Cl
ément Aqueduct, the Roman Catholic cathedral, which is a national monument of France and the Porte du Peyrou, an Arc de Triomphe modeled on Porte Saint-Denis of Paris and completed in 1692. Exploring the streets is part of Montpellier´s charm as the winding, typically French style streets are scattered in parts with historical architecture in the form of interesting buildings and monuments.

Montpellier is an attractive and relaxed city with a number of interesting landmarks. There is a nice contrast between the old historical areas and the modern sections. Whilst it lacks the energy of Paris or Marseille, it is a nice, calm place to visit. Most of the city is easy to reach by walking, although the tram can come in useful. It may be different to the Mediterranean beach cities along the south of France, but for a tourist, Montpellier can provide a fulfilling visit.

Munich City Guide

2009-12-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

Munich is the capital city of the Bavarian region in Germany and is situated north of the Alps on the river Isar. It is very interesting, with a rich culture and fascinating history, as it was the location for a number of pre-war events involving the Nazi uprising.

The assumed foundation date of Munich is 1158. In 1175, city status was granted. The rich history of Munich is best understood with a tour of the city. There are numerous walking, cycling and bus tours available that show interesting landmarks which may be otherwise overlooked.

Many tourists flock to Munich every year for one thing- the beer. In Bavaria there are purity laws, meaning only good quality ingredients can go into the city´s beer. Festivals take place annually in Munich, the most notable of these being Oktoberfest. Despite the quality of beer in Bavaria, it is important to remember that there is so much more to Munich.

Munich´s central square is Marienplatz. This beautiful area creates a focal point for navigation and also works as a meeting point for football fans, celebrating success for the local teams. The new city hall in Marienplatz contains a glockenspiel which is inspired by markets and tournaments that took place in the square many years ago.

The Peterskirche is the oldest church in the inner city, however, the largest is the impressive Frauenkirche. This has two tall towers, visible from all over Munich. During the Second World War, the roof collapsed and one of the towers was severely damaged. Restoration was completed in 1994. It is possible to pay to walk up the tower for a high view over the city.

A number of avenues in Munich are touristic and important. Ludwigstrasse is one of these, running south to north and beginning at Odeonsplatz. Maximilianstrasse is famed for its neo-gothic buildings and runs west to east from Max-Joseph Platz. Running parallel to this is Prinzregentenstrasse, the location of many museums.
Whilst Munich has much more to offer than its beer, the Hofbräuhaus is an important part of the city´s history and culture as well as being a beer hall. Built in 1607, it is where Adolf Hitler organized the first of many large publicity events in 1920.
This interesting, friendly and pretty capital of Bavaria offers culture, fun and architecture, making it an ideal touristic location. With so much to offer in one city, Munich should be high on anyone´s list of places to visit.

Nice City Guide

2009-12-05T15:07:00.000-08:00

Nice (pronounced Neese) is located between Marseille and Italy on the Mediterranean Coast and is a top tourist destination on the French Riviera. It is a popular tourist destination with good weather, fantastic scenery and a laid back atmosphere.

The port of Nice offers ferry transport to and from Corsica whilst national and international travel is also offered by plane, train and bus. Nice Ville is the city’s main railway station and offers frequent connections to local coastal towns as well as direct trains to Marseille, Lyon and Paris. The intercity bus station has services to all over Europe as does the Nice Airport, which is located 6km out of the city centre.

The city’s beach is surprisingly disappointing as it is average looking and pebbled, but Nice has a good style about it. The Promenade des Anglais runs alongside the coast. This was built by beggars as proposed by the rich English people who would use the area as a holiday venue in the second half of the 18th century. Along the Promenade stands the Hotel Negresco, an impressive venue which was named for Henri Negresco.

Nice has a number of squares, which is a common feature of most Mediterranean cities. The main one of these is the Place Massena, which is bordered by red ochre buildings of Italian architecture. The area is used for public events and concerts, particularly during summer festivals.

Various churches are in the city, including the impressive Russian Orthodox Cathedral. This was opened in 1912 and is the largest outside Russia. Possibly the most atmospheric attraction in the city is the old town which is set to the east and up a sleep climb. Once up the hill, visitors are treated to 18th century passages which are lined with a number of cafes and shops.

This city can be used as a hub for visiting nearby coastal venues. It is a nice place to relax and has good weather, interesting architecture and a laid back atmosphere. Nice is a place to be seen in and this is obvious when walking along past the beach. As a classy section of the Mediterranean coast, this is another fantastic venue along the south of France.

Salzburg City Guide

2009-12-04T15:23:00.000-08:00

Based in central Austria, Salzburg is famous for being the setting for the movie ‘The Sound of Music’ and birthplace of Mozart. There is, however, much more to the city’s culture and history, making it an interesting and beautiful location to visit or live in.

Salzburg currently has a population of over 148,000 making it the fourth largest city in Austria. Situated on the banks of the Salzach River, at the northern boundary of the Alps, it is reachable by train from many areas of Europe and is around an hour and a half from Munich. The old city is a UNESCO World Heritage site as well as Austria’s second most popular tourist destination, behind Vienna.

Human settlement in Salzburg has been traced as far back as the Neolithic Age. Small Celtic communities were residing in the town, which at this point was known as Juvavum from 15BC. In the 8th Century, barges carrying salt on the river running through the city would be subject to a toll, which is where the name Salzburg, meaning “Salt Castle” comes from. In 1077, the Festung Hohensalzburg was built. This is a large fortress overlooking the old town and a focal point for Salzburg.

There are a number of attractions of both sides of the river and the best way to get around is by foot. There is a good bus service which covers a lot of the area, but using a car reach different attractions in Salzburg is unnecessary and inconvenient. A lot of the street signs are written in a traditional style and can be difficult to read from a distance. The size of the city makes it possible to travel internally by walking and using public transport. The surroundings seem to be made to be walked through, as beautiful mountain backdrops seem to create photographic opportunities throughout.

Situated on the top of a mountain, Festung Hohensalzburg is one of the more obviously visible attractions Salzburg has to offer. This fortress provides an ideal position for views of the city and nearby Alps. On one side of the building lies a field with only one house. This house was the executioner’s residence and is alone because there was a belief that living near this was bad luck. A museum of life, torture instruments and medieval weapons is inside the fortress. For those who choose not to hike up the hill, a funicular eliminates the walk, running from the old town.

Located near the Salzach River is Schloss Mirabell – a beautiful castle with picturesque gardens. This was built by an archbishop and has the Marble Stairs of Raffael Donner and the Marble Hall – a sensational wedding hall.

Mozart’s birth house is open to visitors from 9AM to 6PM daily and until 7PM between July and August. Known as Mozarts Geburtshaus, this is in the heard of Salzburg and was the Mozart family home between 1747 and 1773. The house is now used as a museum holding interesting memorabilia and letters.

Other museums in the city include the Toy Museum (Spielzeugmuseum) which is at Bürgerspitalgasse 2. The Museum of Natural History (Haus der Natur Salzburg) is situated at Museumplatz 5 and the Salzburg Museum of Modern Art (Museum der Moderne Salzburg) is based at two different locations – Philharmonikergasse 9 and Mönchsberg 32.

Surrounded by gardens with interesting fountains, the Schloss Hellbrunn was once the summer palace of an archbishop. The green is ideal for a leisurely walk and includes a children’s playground. A tour is available which will show and inform about the palace, the fountains and the gardens.

Other sites of interest include the Steintheater, meaning Stone Theatre. This was the location of the first opera in Middle Europe. The city’s cathedral is based in the old city and is worth a visit. St Sebastian Cemetery attracts tourists for the Mausolen if Archbishop Wolfdietrich as well as the grave of Constanze Weber-Nissen, wife of Mozart. It is also worth wondering through Getreidegasse – this is a narrow street with various shops, made famous for the old-style signs outside.

Whilst in the beautiful city of Salzburg, it is very tempting to take a trip towards the mountains. The snow topped peaks are not too far away though. The Untersberg is less than 16km south of the city and is reachable by bus. Many tourists visit this and most take the cable car from St Leonhard station in the nearby town of Gartenau. This lifts passengers over 3000m and arrives at the Geieredu peak. Various paths lead to the top for those who feel they can handle the walk.

A number of tours are available around Salzburg and whether you like it or not, there is a strong presence of Sound of Music coach tours. These are the most popular by far and cover the major locations featured in the film. Information on these can be found in many hotels and also tourist offices. Salzburg sightseeing tours and panorama tours leave at 9.30AM and 2PM daily and operate from Mirabellplatz. Other tours are also available in the area. Saltmine tours are available in the area surrounding Salzburg and boat tours leave from the Makart Bridge on the city side at the Salzach Insel boat landing.

Getting into Salzburg is fairly easy due to its central location. It is well served by the Salzburg W.A. Mozart International Airport, which is situated around 20 minutes from the city centre. There are direct connections to and from many large cities including Amsterdam, Berlin, London, Paris, Vienna and Zurich. The city’s train station, the Hauptbahnhof is located centrally and offers services to and from major European cities including Zurich, Zagreb, Ljubijana and Budapest. By car, the Autobahn AB links Salzburg to Munich and the A1 leads to Vienna.

Whether you are looking to visit for a quiet and relaxing stay or a sightseeing holiday, Salzburg offers a lot in a small space. It even works as a nice hub for smaller, nearby venues. With beautiful mountain backdrops adding a picturesque look to this wonderful city, brimming with history and class. It is not large, but benefits from this as it is easy to travel through and feels very safe and friendly. It provides a fantastic place for those who are interested in Mozart or the Sound of Music, but is just as good for those who are not.

Over two millenniums of history - Seville Travel Guide

2009-12-01T13:49:00.000-08:00

Based in Andalusia in the South of Spain, Seville is complemented with high temperatures and clear blue skies in the summer. This sexy, colourful, friendly and interesting city homes a number of attractions to please the touristic eye, however, in many areas, you may feel like you are the only non-resident of Spain.

In other Spanish hot-spots like Valencia, Madrid and Barcelona, it is not unlikely to find English speakers throughout the city. Seville is different. Whilst the locals come across as welcoming to tourists, it is far easier to get around with at least a Spanish phrasebook.

The majority of the touristic hotspots are around the city centre, towards the river. Any visit to Seville would not be complete without getting lost in the Santa Cruz district. Made up of maze-like thin streets, many presenting interesting shops, restaurants or attractions, it is the sort of place that cannot be funny appreciated from photos.

To the West of Santa Cruz, towards the river is the Cathedral and Giralda. Seville Cathedral is the largest gothic and fourth largest Christian church in the world. For €7 it is possible to access the cathedral, its museum and walk up the spiraling ramp to the top of the Giralda. This climb presents a clear view over the city and, although the real charm of Seville can be seen from ground level, it is well worth the price of admission.

For an escape from the busy streets, Parque Maria Luisa which is situated just south of the centre provides a much appreciated contrast from the rest of Seville. With trees for shade, various fountains, ponds and monuments and a sand covered ground, this park is as relaxing as it is beautiful. The colours, smells and layout of the park seem to be perfectly suited to the hot Andalusian weather. A walk to the North East side of the park will take you to Plaza de España, home of one of the many fountains the park has to offer.

Seville is over 2000 years old and has developed a unique culture, style and personality. Although there are some important landmarks on offer, it is interesting and enjoyable to view some of the less touristic areas of the city centre. The artistic, cultural and financial capital of Spain has a busyness which is expected of any large city without losing the relaxed attitude of Andalusia.

Whilst the idea of hot Southern Spanish temperatures can seem appealing to many, it is not unusual for Seville to reach temperatures above 40°C. For those who may not be used to such heat, it may be wise to visit the region outside the months of August and July for heat which is comparable to the rest of Europe.

Whilst the absence of a beach means this isn´t the place for sunbathers, Seville has the temperature, culture and history to create an unforgettable Andalusian experience.

Tavistock Travel Guide

2009-11-29T09:14:00.000-08:00

Tavistock Town Guide
Despite the beautiful surroundings, the interesting history and the relaxed atmosphere, very few foreign tourists visit Devon and Cornwall in the south west of England in comparison to London and other more known attractions. Tavistock lies in west Devon, near to Cornwall and is best known for its most famous former resident, Sir Francis Drake.

This small market town has a few attractions, but is best used as a hub for visiting nearby villages and attractions on the Dartmoor national park. Tavistock is based on the River Tavy and has been traced back to AD 961 when the Tavistock Abbey was founded. The Abbey ruins still lie in the centre of the town.

The town’s Pannier Market is based centrally and brings visitors from surrounding areas. Tavistock’s market town status dates back to 1105 when Henry 1 granted a Royal Charter to the monks allowing them to run a weekly Pannier Market.

Getting into the town is not simple. From abroad the easiest route is by plane to Bristol International Airport, train to Plymouth, then bus to Tavistock or renting a car from the airport. Bus is the only regular public transport in the town. A car would be an advantage as a number of nearby attractions are not easily accessible by public transport.

Lydford Gorge is near to Tavistock and is a 2.4km long gorge owned and maintained by the National Trust. Included in this is a 30 metre high waterfall known as the White Lady and a series of whirlpools. Another popular nearby venue is Morwellham Quay, an open air Victorian theme park with a conserved village and mine train.

This is one part of a whole region of England which has picturesque views and an interesting history. Its distance from international airports and London makes it more difficult to reach for tourists, but this can add to the attraction. Tavistock is a fantastic town in a fantastic region and should be considered by anyone wanting to visit the lesser known parts of the UK.

Trieste City Guide

2009-11-28T07:40:00.000-08:00

This city and port is located on the north-eastern side of Italy within a short distance of Slovenia and Croatia. With a population of over 200,000, Trieste has an ethnic mix from the nearby regions.

Various touristic attractions are scattered around this city with a rich history. Since the 3rd millennium BC, people have settled in the area. The city was ruled by the Roman Republic by 177BC and under this rule, Julio Caesar recorded its name as Tergeste. Much later on, Trieste became a domain of Austria. As an important port and trade hub, it was occupied by French troops on various occasions during the Napoleonic Wars. Following this, Trieste became the capital of the Austrian Littoral region. In 1920, the city became part of Italy.

This picturesque city provides many beautiful views. It definitely benefits from its location as a walk down the coast toward Miramare presents the opportunity of seeing Italy, Slovenia and Croatia. In nearby Miramare stands the Miramare Castle. Built between 1856 and 1860, the castle fits in well to the gardens and is located right next to the sea. It is still in great condition and the gardens have various paths and seats. There are few better places to relax.

Various churches can be found in the city including the Cathedral of San Giusto, the Temple of Holy Trinity and St. Spiridio, the Basilica of San Silvestro, the Church of San Nicolò dei Greci which follows the Austrian late baroque style and the Israelite Temple of Trieste.

Various historical landmarks are scattered through the city including the Arch of Riccardo, built in 33BC and believed to be where king Richard of England crossed on the way back from Crusades. The Roman Theatre is also an important landmark, lying at the foot of the San Giusto hill and mainly made from stone, it was built, exploiting the mild slope where it is situated.

The Piazza dell’ Unita provides part of a nice central point to the city. Whilst public transport is useful for reaching Miramare, the city centre can be walked fairly easily.

Trieste is served by train, bus and plane. The city’s port status has declined as there are better located ports around the area, but the nearby Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport provides international transport. Bus services are available to Slovenia and Croatia and many trains run to Venice, Milan and other areas.

This beautiful city is relaxed and picturesque. It is not a beach location, but the sea adds a lot to the feel of the place. Despite the size, Trieste has much to offer.

Turin City Guide

2009-11-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Located on the River Po in Northern Italy, Turin is a major business and cultural centre in the region. The city is fairly near to Milan, however it is far more satisfying for tourists. With a mixture of urban areas and tranquil parks, Turin provides beautiful buildings, pretty greenery and a mountain backdrop, enough to make any city attractive.

Football plays a large part in the lives of locals here. One of the biggest club rivalries in Italy takes place between Torino and Juventus who both play their home games at the Stadio Olympico. This stadium is worth a visit and on match days and on match days the vibe, typical of any top flight club is contagious.

Many other attractions are situated around the city showing the historical importance of Turin. One of the most known landmarks here is in the Cathedral of John the Baptist. Housed in here is an old linen cloth with the imprint of a man. Many believe it to be that of Jesus Christ. The cloth, however, is not available to see for fear of damage.

The city also contains Museo Egizio, which holds the second most important collection of Egyptian Antiques in the world, the first of course being in Cairo. For a more Italian historical landmark, head over to the Palastine Towers. These are among the best preserved Roman remains in the North of Italy.

For an inspiring view of Turin with a backdrop of the Italian Alps, a walk to the top of the Hill of Superga will suffice. Also situated here is the Basilica of Superga – a church built from 1717 to 1731. Whilst looking over the city, the most recognisable building is the Mole Antonelliana. Origionally built as a Synagogue, this is now home to the National Museum of Cinema and is believed to be the tallest museum in the world. Construction on the building began in 1863 and was designed by the architect Alessandro Antonelli, hence the name.

Whilst many tourists flock to Rome and Venice when visiting Italy, Turin is a beautiful alternative with excellent pizza, interesting architecture, a city atmosphere and nice design. It is surprising to see so much of a large city covered in quiet parks, but this allows Turin to keep a relaxed, tranquil side to this wonderful place.

Zurich City Guide

2009-11-25T11:20:00.000-08:00

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with a population of over 375,000. According to several surveys it is the city with the highest quality of life in the world. It is surprising that it is not the capital of Swizerland, but it is considered the most important culturally.

Located around 30km north of the Alps, the city sits on the river Limmat and Lake Zurich surrounded by hills. With an interesting and attractive layout, the mountains are visible in good weather from some areas.

A number of train stations are situated in the city, the main being the Zurich Hauptbahnhof, which provides transport to and from many major European venues. International travel is also provided by the city’s airport, located 10km north-east in Kloten.

Internally, city is served by the S-Bahn (local trains), bus and tram. Away from dry land, boats operate along the river and lake and the city has a funicular railway as well as a cable car. The transport system is very frequent and efficient, which is not a surprise when looking at the national systems throughout Switzerland.

Whilst in the city, there is the feeling that everything is working perfectly. Generally, Switzerland feels safer than many other European countries and Zurich is no exception. The buildings are not as extravagant as those in other venues like London, Paris or Madrid but Zurich is attractive in the way it is set out.

Various attractions are in the city including a number of churches. The most important of these are the Grossmunster, built in 820, the Fraumunster, built in 874 and renovated in 2004 and the St Peter, which has the largest church clock face in the world.

Lake Zurich is a large attraction. Around this, various parks can be found, creating nice places to relax in, especially if the weather is good. There are also suitable swimming areas, however the water can get cold at times.

Switzerland has a reputation for being expensive, and in places it is. If you buy food in large global chain restaurants, the value is not as good as in local food venues. Despite the higher prices compared to many other cities, it is worth visiting Zurich as this clean city has beautiful views and a friendly vibe – making it a fantastic destination.

Why I love England in Winter

2009-11-24T11:55:00.000-08:00

England has never been somewhere people visit for hot weather, in fact recent years have failed to provide a full summer of heat. We Brits get more than our fair share of rain, we get the flooding, we get the ruined events, we get muddy Glastonburys and rained out football matches, yet in July and August, huge numbers of tourists flock across. When I see visitors, walking down the streets, holding cameras and sheltering from the downfall in mid July, it makes me wonder why they came across.

Summer air fares and hotel rates are high and in any other country, it's worth it. If you fly to the south of France in July, you've got a good chance of being able to enjoy the warm beaches. It's far cheaper to travel in the colder months and, without the expectation of sun, there's no disappointment.

England has so much to offer in terms of history, nightlife, sports, architecture and natural beauty and a trek across Dartmoor, through the windy streets of Bath or along the stony beach in Brighton is so much nicer with the crisp cold air than below the grey, late June sky. Yes, the weather can get bad in the winter, but sheltering by the fire in an old country pub with a local ale in hand is something which must be experienced at least once.

A trip to a Southern European hot spot on a rainy day will show that they aren't made for bad weather, but England is made for rain - we're used to it and probably wouldn't survive without it, so it's best to come across expecting some bad weather and make the most of it!

My Top 5 English Places in Winter

5: Oxford - The amazing architecture and interesting buildings in the sandy stone become a little bit special in the cold air.

4: Truro - The city fills up and brims with a buzzing atmosphere during the winter months. South Western shoppers pour into this little place for the packed streets. The cathedral looks great at any time of year too and, although this isn't a great sightseeing place, it's nice for a wonder.

3: Wembley Stadium - There's nothing like watching a match in freezing cold weather, with a scarf wrapped around your face and a hot drink in hand. This isn't limited only to Wembley - any football stadium is worth a visit in winter.

2: Laycock - Whilst the Abbey's opening hours may be limited around this time of year, this little village is great to wonder through. Search for a cosy pub to escape the cold.

1: Bath - There's something about Bath in the rain - the smell is different to other cities. The Christmas Market near the Abbey also adds a festive feeling to the city and the lively highstreet doesn't slow down in winter. I've had great times in Bath at any time of the year, but during winter there's a certain atmosphere around the centre that I haven't noticed anywhere else.