Europe Travel

Shopping and lake cruises in Zurich!

2011-10-25T04:40:00.000-07:00

Zurich has many things to offer to the tourists visiting it. Some of the best attractions of this town include the streets with stylish window shops, chic cafes, elegant restaurants and lake cruises.

Shopping in Zurich

Tourists visiting Zurich shouldn’t miss the shops on the Bahnhofstrasse, the main commercial artery of the city. A veritable parade of luxury opens here for the passersby. One can find the latest collections of fashion designers, jewelries and expensive watches. The headquarters of the most prestigious Swiss banks rises on the same street, which is opened now only for pedestrian traffic. Even if one is traveling on a budget it costs nothing to take a look. The Niederdorf area, located in the old town shouldn’t be missed. It will impress the tourists with picturesque alleys and clothing and accessories shops. This area will be a stop not only for those who seek the fashion, but also for the tourists interested in nightlife bars and clubs. Andorra Bar is highly appreciated by jazz and beer lovers, and the nearby bar Corazon is famous for its finest wines.

Tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the neighborhood in Tina Bar, and eat a cheap lunch at the Cantina restaurant on ground level of the same building. Shopping can be a fascinating experience in Rosenhof market. Opened from March to December, the market is located close to the historic town hall and two steps away from the river Limmat. The Rosenhof market is known for the many stalls with antiques, objects brought from distant countries or products of local artisans. Although it looks like fair, Rosenhof can be the best place to find gifts for friends with expensive tastes: clothes, jewelry, precious stones, pottery, and local culinary delights.

Cruises and fun activities for kids

If a city tour seems to be exhausting, one can find amusement in a cruise on Lake Zurich and the Limmat River. From early spring until late autumn, tourists enjoy boat rides on the river. Most of them have a glass roof, so the scenery is stunning. A boat tour on the lake or river takes about one and a half hour. Zurich Zoo can be a perfect place for a quiet stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Founded in 1929, the Zoo Park is one of the favorite attractions of families with children. It hosts hundreds of species and a recreated rainforest in the outskirts. Kids can take part in workshops and may assist in the parade of penguins.

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Introducing Vienna

2011-10-12T04:51:00.000-07:00

Vienna is the capital of the central European country of Austria. The city has a long history that dates back nearly 1,000 years. The first time that Vienna was mentioned as a city was in a chronicle dating from 1137.

About two decades afterward the city became the home of the Austrian dukedom. About a century later, in 1278 with the defeat of Czech king Ottokar II, the Hapsburgs maintained their control of the city, a situation that was to be maintained for the next 640, until the end of WWI. After the fall of the Hapsburg’s rule, the city went through several changes perhaps the most notorious being brought into the German Third Reich by Austrian Adolf Hitler.

Vienna is well-known for its musical history. The classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, although not born in the city, moved there in 1781, as did the famous composer Franz Joseph Haydn and the German-born Ludwig van Beethoven. Other noted composers and conductors either came from Vienna or made the city their home. Such notables include Franz Schubert, Johann Strauss, Johannes Brahms, Gustav Mahler and Herbert von Karajan. Even today, there are many musical groups and events which take place in the city. Home to the Theatre an der Wein, a famous opera house, the Herbert von Karajan Centrum Vienna, the Vienna Boys Choir and the Gustav Mahler Jungendorchestra, there are many places to experience music in the city. But there is more than classical music which lives there. Annually, the city hosts a jazz festival with international artists. For instance, the Jazz Fest Wien 2011 included Liza Minnelli, British music star Seal, and singer Cesoria Evora from Cape Verde. There are various jazz clubs as well such as the Blue Tomato and Club Ost. There are also many electronic music-related artists and clubs such as the Elektro Gӧnner and Europa and Lager. Established electronic producers and DJ’s include Patrick Palsinger, Peter Kruger and Richard Dorfmeister. Electronic music festivals include Waves Vienna and the Day & Night Festival.

Besides musical events, there are many other activities to do in Vienna. In the first district of the city, near the State Opera House is the Haus of Musik, which allows visitors to hear a presentation about the history of music as well as try out various instruments. G-town which opened in 2001, is an urban entertainment center. It boasts a myriad of various buildings including an event hall for over 4,000 people, a daycare center, a dormitory for students, a 12-screen cinema, over 600 apartments, the Vienna National Archive, and 70 bars, stores, restaurants, cafes and a vinotheque.

Many historical sites can be seen in Vienna such as Figarohaus, where Mozart lived over a period of about ten years. Other historical sites in Vienna including Judenplatz, the Holocaust memorial which is a sculpture consisting of The Nameless Library. The names of Holocaust victims can be seen at the memorial along with the names of the Nazi death camps. There is also a Jewish museum which details the extensive history of Jewish people in the city. Famous Viennese residents of Jewish heritage include Sigmund Freud, Gustav Mahler, and Hedy Lamarr, an inventor and famous Hollywood actress. Josephinum, or the Institute for the History of Medicine, in Vienna was established by Emperor Joseph II. It houses a wax collection of anatomical body parts commissioned by Joseph II and later used by doctors to study the human body. Vienna is also home to the Kriminalmuseum which provides information to visitors on how killers, past and present, go about their deeds. Information is supplied by Vienna police archives. Details about murder from the Middle Ages to the present day is on display. There is also an exhibit dedicated to the city’s criminal underworld.

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Yacht Wedding in Cyprus

2011-10-11T07:31:00.000-07:00

Cyprus boasts a pleasantly warm climate with sunshine blanketing the land. You will experience an eclectic mix of cultural influences wherever you go from the pristine beaches to quaint and charming villages, and not forgetting the friendly and hospitable locals which captivate the hearts of every visitor.

Where would be a more fitting destination than Cyprus the island of love and birthplace of the Greek Goddess Aphrodite? This would be the most romantic symbol being blessed right where the true meaning of love originated.

And just to take it one step further, why not exchange vows whilst sailing in this idyllic setting on your very own private yacht. This is such an intimate and secluded environment to celebrate your new and exciting journey as you sail the stunning coastlines. You will be blessed by the most captivating surroundings with your day being uniquely tailored bringing all of your childhood dreams to life. This destination will without a doubt create a magical and unforgettable experience for both you and your guests.

A yacht wedding will provide you with glamour and style whether it is a 2 hour sunset cruise with cocktails and canapés for a small and intimate gathering, or a 6 hour expedition including a sumptuous buffet dinner for a celebration for 150 people. Sail the magical crystal blue seas as the sun slowly sets over the horizon while you and your guests kick off your shoes and dance the night away. To top of this truly special day, farewell your guests as you surrender to the luxurious Honeymoon Suite where classy champagne and decadent chocolates await. Yacht wedding packages are a popular choice, for a simple ceremony only package you will pay around £799-£1399 for 20 guests and £15 for each extra person. However if you would like all the trimmings including honeymoon suite you will pay around £1299-£1799 for 20 people.

Wedding regulations vary slightly depending on which island you are having your ceremony. In some cases you may be required to be staying on the particular island for a nominated time frame before the wedding. You are required to submit your application at least 2 months beforehand along with your birth certificate, declaration of freedom to marry, and passports valid for 10 years. You are required to bring all original and legalised documents with you to Cyprus. Your marriage certificate will be in Greek therefore it will need to be translated to your native language once you are back in your home country.

Accommodation in Cyprus will provide you with pure luxury while maintaining their original beauty. You may like to take up residence in a private bungalow within a resort village where you will be privy to all the amenities and facilities. Private Holiday villas are also a fantastic choice and provide a home away from home. Traditional style villas still exude their character and charm featuring splendid displays of architecture from the past.

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The best attractions to see in Oslo

2011-04-29T12:48:00.000-07:00

Oslo happens to be Norway’s capital and also its largest city, but these are not the only things it is known for. Oslo’s museums and parks are definitely world-class and always worth seeing.

The Akershus Castle, in particular, stands as a landmark in Oslo. You shouldn’t miss it for anything. The castle used to serve as a prison during the second world war, but now it plays host to the Resistance Museum depicting the occupation of the Germans in Norway. Take time to visit the dark dungeons, banquet halls and staterooms that are housed within the castle – you will be awed, for sure. Come summertime, the castle grounds are used for many outdoor events.

Experience true Norweigan heritage at the Norweigan Folk Museum. Set amidst sight-captivating surroundings, the Museum features many things that characterize Norweigan culture and heritage. Here you’ll find the wooden stave church dating as far back as the 11th century as well.

The Kon-Tiki Museum is worth seeing, too, if only to see the balsa-log raft used by Scientist Thor Heyerdahl during his voyage from Peru Polynesia. But there’s plenty to experience in the museum, as well – artifacts from East Polynesia, Peru, and Galapagos, and lava statues from the Easter Island, among others. Make use of the interactive touch screen guide to help you get around.

Other notable museums to see in Oslo are the Viking Ship Museum which contains the world’s three best-preserved Viking ships, the Munch Museum featuring the many artworks of Munch, including his best work, The Scream, and the Barnekunst Museum also known as the International Children’s Art Museum.

Done with Museum hopping? Visit Radhuset, Oslo’s City Hall, referred to by many as Norway’s pride. Not every one thinks that way, though, so see for yourself what you make out of the murals, frescoes, sculptures, and wood carvings.

Spend time to see Slottsparken, too. Slottsparken is a park surrounding the Royal Palace. Witness the changing of the guard at 1:30 pm, and see why it is always such a big deal.

If you happen to visit Oslo during summertime, don’t fail to see Vigeland Sculpture Park which features granite, bronze and iron sculptures of the cycle of life as envisioned by Adolf Gustav Vineland.

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Travel Tips for Reykjavik Iceland Where to Eat Sleep and Tour in Iceland

2010-08-13T16:28:00.000-07:00

You may think that Iceland is rather a complicated place to go to and one of Europe’s more popular tourist destinations is easier and quicker to reach and navigate but you’d be wrong! Iceland lies between Boston and London and takes about 4 hours to reach either from the U.S. or Europe.

The capital of Iceland, Reykjavik has all the tourist amenities and conveniences as any other popular tourist destination but is not as over run or as over done.

You will find Iceland a refreshing travel destination with some unexpected plus points, like the beautiful women, the raving nightlife on weekends and the breath taking scenery and natural wonders.

These travel tips are just some interesting points which I picked up on during my visit to Reykjavik, Iceland and they may make your trip to Iceland more pleasurable.

1. Weather and visiting Reykjavik, Iceland in the winter

Although cold in the winter don’t think you have to go during the summer. The winters have been mild in the past 5 years, with hardly any snow fall in the south, although you still get the snow capped mountains and icy glaciers. This means you can still easily navigate the roads around Reykjavik during the winter even if you are not used to driving in winter conditions. Traveling to Reykjavik, Iceland in winter also means a chance to see the northern lights, cheaper prices, fewer tourists and all the tourist attractions are still open. The only things you would miss out on if traveling in winter to Reykjavik, Iceland is the whale watching and Puffin birds.

2. Whale watching in winter in Reykjavik, Iceland

There are whale watching tours during the winter but you are more likely to see dolphins. We took a whale watching tour in Reykjavik during January and enjoyed the boat trip, although you need to go knowing you will most likely not see the mighty mammal. If you can look at it simply as a pleasant trip along the Icelandic coast then do it but if you have your heart set on seeing a whale then rather go in the summer months to avoid disappointment. We did however see a school of about 100 dolphins who ducked and dived around the boat and that was great.

3. Neighborhood ice cream parlor in Reykjavik, Iceland

Using the tourist map of the city of Reykjavik which every hotel hands out, follow your nose and taste buds to this small neighborhood ice cream shop which overflows with locals and plenty of character. Get away from Reykjavik’s main street for a while, about a 20 minute walk west and you will find an ice cream parlor run by a regular mum. The place is small but locals love it. You can have regular ice cream or frozen milk, and either come topped or blended with a variety of about 30 toppings. You will find it at: 67 Hagamel Street and can read more about the most popular reykjavik ice cream parlor here. Don’t miss out on all the wierd and wonderful traditional Icelandic foods as well!

4. Where to stay in Reykjavik, Iceland

Look at a map and choose a hotel walking distance from the main street - Laugavegur . Reykjavik is spread out with many of the hotels being far from the main street which buzzes with cafes, pubs, restaurants and all the amenities you will need. Although many trips to Reykjavik consist of simply staying at a hotel and then being picked up everyday from your hotel and being taken on an adventure into the incredible Icelandic nature, you may want to leave your hotel at some point for a coffee, a beer or simply to window shop. If your hotel is not close to the center you will have a hard time getting to the center as buses are not that regular and there are plenty of hotels to choose from around the main part of town. Don’t miss out on the Reykjavik nightlife and café culture by choosing a hotel too far away from the center. I recommend one of the Centerhotel chain hotels, Thingholt, Plaza or Klopp, all of which are central, and vary in price range, there is also a hostel right on the main drag.

5. The Golden Circle Tour, Reykjavik, Iceland

Combine your trip to the Golden Circle with some other attraction. Although the Golden Circle is exciting, unusual and breathtaking you will find that it takes a while to reach the attractions along the way as you come from Reykjavik, however if you have some other distraction it makes the day just that bit more special. You can combine the Golden Circle tour with snowmobile riding, glacier climbing, super jeep rides, horse riding and even snorkeling or diving. We did the snorkeling and it just broke the monotony of driving from one site to another getting out, being amazed, taking a photo and returning to the van. A note about superjeep riding, ask your tour operator if the jeep will actually be going off road, otherwise you might as well be in a car or van.

6. Reykjavik, Iceland tours

I had read many times on the net that there is no need to book tours before you leave home, but I found this hard to believe and went ahead and booked all our tours in advance. Once in Reykjavik I found that there were other tour options, tours that combined tours I had booked separately and that we needed some breathing space between tours. So definitely don’t book all your tours in advance. However book your first day’s tour and any special tours that you are scared to miss out on. The hotel reception or the local tourist information can book tours for you on the spot. For example there is no need to book northern lights tours too far in advance. We even booked a tour which was leaving in 20 minutes time, and they came to pick us up from the hotel.

Writer: Petal Mashraki

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Head to Helsinki This Summer!

2010-07-25T05:36:00.000-07:00

How does the seaside capital of one of northern Europe’s most distinct countries, Finland feel like?

Some people experience Helsinki as unpresumptuous and cool while others think it is delightfully retro. 70% of Finland’s foreign business happens here, 10% of the Helsinki population of 584 420 were born abroad and they speak 132 languages.

A quarter of the population of the country, 29% of jobs, eight universities, six technology parks, and a third of Finland’s GDP can be found in and around Helsinki, founded in 1550.

How to Go Around Helsinki

At 42 € for 48 hours and giving unlimited travel on the excellent public transport system and with free access to 50 museums, the Helsinki Card is a great bargain.

Wake up with coffee and breakfast at Café Esplanad (Pohjoisesplanadi 37) or Café Strindberg (Pohjoisesplanadi 33).

A short walk away is one of the market squares, Kauppatori, full of tourists browsing handicrafts stalls. Locals buy fish, fruits or vegetable in this popular open-air marketplace overlooked by the red brick built Russian Orthodox Uspensky Cathedral on Katajanokka Island.

On the Senate Square, walk up the high flock of steps of the huge white Lutheran cathedral to get a beautiful panoramic city-view.

19th century neoclassic buildings like the imposing main building of the Helsinki University are around the square. A small side street, Sofiankatu, is paved with cobblestones and has street signs in Russian first, Swedish next and Finnish last as it was two hundred years ago. The stately parliament house built with red granite has a modern annex and modern glass buildings opposite.

Classical art-lovers shouldn’t miss the Ateneum Art Museum with Finnish art from the 18th century to the 1960s and foreign art from the 19th century onwards. Modern art-lovers have the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, an ultra-modern building designed by American architect Steven Holl. The National Museum, has an interactive exhibition to take you through Finnish history. Temppeliaukion Kirkko, a church hewed out of solid granite rock with a rolled copper roof hosts many concerts and is a tourist must see. You don’t need to have children tagging along to scream in childish delights at Linnanmäki amusement park. Many parks in Helsinki, like Esplanade park provide free WLAN Internet, so you can sit there in the sun with your laptop, people watching and posting updates on Facebook.

Helsinki has a glitzy and pricy Flamingo if you want that spa kind of pampering. The wood fired Kotiharjun Sauna (Harjutorinkatu 1) is a dare for the culturally brave. The Russians prescribe vodka for solving all the problems of life. The Finns use the sauna to that end. With separate saunas for men and women, the traditional relaxation solves all the problems of life, but no drinking alcohol in the sauna. You can experience swimming naked at the classical Roman style baths round the year at Yrjönkatu pools. Separate places and times for men and women. The Finnish Sauna society has eight different kinds of saunas for you to brag about back at home.

Suomenlinna is a UNESCO-listed group of islands only a 15-minute ferry ride away and Seurasaari is an open-air museum (in summer) a short bus-ride away with farmhouses, churches and manors to show how people lived in Finland hundreds of years ago.

FOOD, DRINKS and NIGHT-LIFE in Helsinki

The not-so-cheap restaurant Aino (Pohjoisesplanadi 21) serves excellent Finnish food. Lappi (Annankatu 22) and Saaga (Bulevardi 34B) serve exotic Lappish cuisine. Jailbird, located in a former prison is a restaurant for people who want to pay for dining in a jail.

The young party bums should check out Baarikärpänen (Mikonkatu 1), Fever (Annankatu 32) and KY Klubi (Pohjoinen Rautatienkatu 21). Seasoned partygoers try the following: Ahjo (Bulevardi 2/4), Fennia (Mikonkatu 19). Then there’s Millionaire’s Club (Kaivokatu 12) or Gentleman’s Club (Iso Roobertinkatu 4-6) for the really naughty men.

For gay and lesbian clientele, Bar Loop, the trendy Jenny Woo, Hercules nightclub, DTM offers you free WLAN, Mann’s Street is for real Finnish men who happen to be gay.

In the last two decades small boutiques in Helsinki have moved over to shopping centres like in all major cities. In summer, Helsinki is full of tourists - Americans coming in large cruise ships, Russians from Moscow and St Petersburg coming for bargains and for holidaying, the Japanese strolling around and buying Finnish design clothes at Marimekko. Check the latest on what’s happening in Helsinki from the Trip Advisor

WEATHER in Helsinki

When you come up so far north, weather can be very fickle, so dress appropriately. The average Helsinki daytime temperature is 17c in July and the daylight hours are around 20 hours then. Nights can be cooler. Check the latest weather here

Two Finnish words Anteeksi (excuse me/sorry) check pronunciation here and Kiitos (Thanks) check pronunciation here will help you a lot. Most of the people in Helsinki speak a fair amount of English.

As a city, Helsinki symbolises the Finn’s penchant for the understatement.

Source: factoidz.com

A Tourist Guide to Bruges, Belgium : the Venice of the North

2010-07-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

Bruges can be considered as a crown jewel in Belgium and is located in the northwestern part of this small country of Europe.

This beautiful city is the capital and largest city of West Flanders and attracts yearly more than 2 millions of tourists from all places over the world. Bruges is one of the most popular medieval cities all over the world and its historic center of is recognized by the UNESCO as world heritage center since 2000. Het Brugs beertje (the little Bruges bear) is the symbol of Bruges and represent, according to a legend, the oldest inhabitant of Bruges.

Bruges is also called “the Venice of the North” because this city has plenty picturesque canals which flow together in the River Reie. A boat trip on the Reie will show you why Bruges is called the Venice of the north and may never be missed if you visit Bruges. It is a boat trip of 30 minutes where you pass many bridges and you can view the most important buildings and places of Belgium. You will surely enjoy such boat trip because the driver informs you about the history and tells funny anecdotes which even many habitants of Belgium don’t know.

Traveling to Bruges can best be done by train because it is difficult to find a parking in this beautiful city of Belgium. The streets are narrow and often covered with cobblestones and it is already an art to drive with your car in Bruges. From the station, you can start your walk through the square‘t Zand which is located close to the shopping streets and the historical buildings. It is only a 5 minute walk from the station and you view as first the new concert hall which is built in red and a little bit further the fountain with sculptures by Stefaan De Puydt and Livia Canestraro.

From there; you can take the bus to the Market square to start your tour in Bruges. The market square in Bruges can be called the heart of this medieval city and you can already view from there the Belfry, which is likely the most famous monument in Bruges. The tower of the Belfry which dates back from the 13th century has a height of 88 meters and you need to climb 365 steps to reach the top and to view the impressive clock mechanism. From there, you have a breathtaking view of the entire city Bruges.

The Market square is surrounded by Guild houses, the Provincial Court (built in neo-gothic style), terraces and other beautiful houses.

In the middle of the market place, you can see the statue of Jan Breydel and Pieter De Koninck which remind us the battle of Golden Spurs.

The Minnewater (Love Lake) and its lovely Minnewater Park can be considered as the most romantic place in Bruges. Most tourists will certainly visit this lovely park. No matter, when you visit this park you will always see some swans and ducks on the lake. The swan is also called the symbol of Bruges. The Minnewater Park is a peaceful place in Bruges where you can take a rest and for lovers the place to be for some moments romantic. You will often meet lovers who kiss each other in this beautiful Minnewater Park. It is the perfect place to be if you search a destination to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Behind the Minnewater Park, you can view the Beguinage. The Beguinage of Bruges (also called Beguinage “Ter Weyngaerde” was founded by Margaretha of Constantinople, the Countess of Flanders in 1245. It is peaceful and quiet place in Bruges and reflects a group of white houses surrounded with large trees. The Beguinage became a monastery in 1937 with Benedict sisters. The most beautiful period of the year to visit the Beguinage is April when daffodils are blooming. The beguinage is one of the most photographed places in Bruges.

Bruges is also a city of many churches and cathedrals. The Church of Our Lady is the most impressive one and has been built from the 13th until the 15th century. The exterior of this church is built in a gothic style while the interior is in a baroque style. The tower of this beautiful church has a height of 122 meters. One of the most famous art treasures in this gothic church is the sculpture of Madonna and child made by Michelangelo in Carrara Marble. The splendid tombstones of Mary von Burgundy are another reason why so many tourists visit this impressive gothic church in Bruges. The Saint Salvador Cathedral in Bruges is another important church in Bruges and originally not built with the intention to become a cathedral in Bruges. Saint Salvador was originally built as a paris church in 850. Nowadays the Saint Salvador Cathedral is a gothic cross church.

Bruges has also many museums and the Memling Museum (nowadays called Saint Jan Hospital) is likely the most impressive one. This museum exhibits 6 works of Hans Memling and the Shrine of St. Ursula is the most admired masterpiece. The other masterpiece which is exhibited in this museum is “the Altarpiece of Saint John the Baptist and Saint John the evangelist”. The Groeninge museum is another important museum and known as the museum of fine art. This museum collects arts work from the 14th until the 20th century.

It is also worthwhile to visit the Chocolate Museum: Choco Story. Belgium is well-known for its excellent chocolate and they inform you in this museum about the history of the chocolate and the process of making chocolate. You can also taste some chocolate and it’s certainly the place to be for chocolate lovers. Bruges is the only city in the world where you have more than 50 shops of chocolate in such a small area.

Bruges is also a city of beautiful statues. The most famous statues are these of Jan Breydel and Piet De Koninck, Hans Memling, the Apocalyptic Rider, Albert I, Jan Van Eyck, the “Brugs Beertje (the Bruges little bear), Guido Gezelle, Madonna and Child, Jacob van Maerlant and many others.

An often forgotten place to visit in Bruges is the side along the channel where you can view windmills. You can make a riverside walk to the east and visit the two windmills which are left. It is a quiet area and you can enjoy some beautiful sights. When you walk a little bit further, you can visit the Guido Gezelle museum where you can view documents, books, souvenirs of the Flemish poet Guido Gezelle. The Guido Gezelle Museum in Bruges is located in the house where the poet Guido Gezelle was born.

Many popular events, which attract visitors from all places of the world, are organized in Bruges. The Holy Blood Procession is an annual event which is organized in the month May on Ascension Day. It is a colorful parade where almost 1500 habitants of Bruges show the history of the relic of the Holy Blood. This parade memorizes the relic of the Holy Blood which was brought to Bruges by the Count of Flanders in 1149. The Parade of the Holy Blood shows as well scenes from the Bible as the relic of the Holy Blood to Bruges through the Count of Flanders.

Every 5 years, the Pageant of the Golden Tree takes place in August. This Parade commemorates the marriage between Charles the Bold and Margaret of York in 1468. This popular event, organized in the center of Bruges, the Venice of the North, represent the history and origin of the houses of Flanders and Burgundy. Many actors, dancers, singers show as well the romantic scenes of the marriage as the medieval scenes.

The Festival of Flanders is a musical event which takes place every year in the months July and August. This musical event is organized in cathedrals, churches, abbeys, concert halls and belfries. The festival of Flanders in Bruges is especially famous for its international Musica Antiqua competitions.

Bruges is a wonderful place in Belgium and can be considered as a city for all seasons. You best spend a few days in Bruges to discover all the beauties of the Venice of the North. It is not only a place for sightseeing but you also can enjoy the excellent cuisine and everyone will certainly enjoy the best Belgian chocolate. Bruges has many hotels for every budget and you may never forget to drink a Brugge Tripple, a typical beer of Bruges. Bruges is a popular travel destination for travelers from all places of the world. This city, well known as the Venice of the North, can be considered as the number one in your top ten places to visit in Belgium and many will choose this destination certainly in their list of top ten places to visit in Europe.

Willy Lustenhouwer, an habitant of Bruges made a song of the beauty of Bruges. This song "Brugge die scone" and sung in the Westflemish dialect descrbes perfectly how beautiful Bruges is. You can enjoy the video with a tour of the beauties of Bruges with the voice of Willy Lustenhouwer and the song : Brugge, die scone (The beauty of Bruges).

Bruges is beautiful from the morning until the evening. It is charming, lovely, romantic and has many popular places of interest. Everyone can enjoy Bruges; there are attractions for everyone. Bruges has always kept the medieval image of the city. The cobblestones streets, the medieval buildings, the canals make Bruges unique and the quantity of tourists proofs that Bruges a top travel destination is in Europe.

Source factoidz

Beautiful Popular Landmark Tourist Attractions in Germany

2010-07-05T11:49:00.000-07:00

According to the German Tourism Association these eight buildings are the most visited landmark tourist attractions in Germany.

The list is for landmark buildings only and does not include places like the Black Forest or the city of Berlin or Europa-Park which in total probably see more tourists than these landmark buildings. All of these beautiful buildings are popular tourist attractions in Germany today and all have fascinating rich histories and are well worth seeing by anyone traveling to Germany. Indeed a trip to Germany will not be complete for tourists without seeing these beautiful landmark tourist attractions.

Cologne Cathedral

The beautiful Cologne Cathedral is visited by over 7 million tourists a year. That works out to an astonishing 20,000 visitors per day. Cologne Cathedral was built from 1248 to 1880 and has the 2nd tallest church spires in the world. Located in Cologne, Germany this Roman Catholic church is the 15th largest church in the world today.

The Reichstag

The Reichstag building is located in Berlin and was built from 1884 to 1894 for the purpose of housing the parliament of Germany called the Reichstag. A purpose the building filled until 1933 when a fire in the building was used as an excuse by the Nazis to essentially ignore and override the Reichstag or Parliament of Germany. After the fire the Reichstag building became a ruin until it was repaired in 1961-1964 and then renovated to its present glorious form in 1992. When the Berlin Wall fell and the the country of Germany was unified in 1990 the unification ceremony was held at the Reichstag building which is located close to the wall in what was West Berlin. Today the magnificent Reichstag building is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Berlin.

Hofbrauhaus in Munich

Hofbrauhaus is a large brewery or beer hall in Munich owned by the state government that receives some 1.8 million visitors per year most of whom come to the brewery building beer hall in the fall for the Oktoberfest. The original brewery building or Hofbrauhaus am Platzl dates dates back to 1607. The beer hall building was completely remodeled in 1897 and then again in 1958 and only serves its own brewed beer and is located right in the heart of Munich not far from most hotels so tourists celebrating Oktoberfest do not have to travel far while loaded up with beer.

Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg Castle is a massive ruin of a medieval castle sitting on a hillside overlooking the city of Heidelberg in southwestern Germany. The original castle dates back to before 1200 and from that time until the 1700’s Heidelberg Castle was home to a number of kings and royalty and was often being rebuilt or destroyed depending upon who was in power and how good they were at holding off their enemies. Heidelberg Castle has been a tourist attraction for a long time at least since the 1800’s when French writer Victor Hugo fell in love with the place and wrote about its history. Today renovations are ongoing at the castle which is visited by some 3 million tourists per year. The castle is also a popular wedding spot and a magnificent architectural structure to behold.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria

Neuschwanstein Castle is a spectacular Romanesque Revival building located atop a rugged hilltop in southwestern Bavaria, Germany. The castle was built beginning in 1869 by King Ludwig II as a temple of friendship to his friend the German composer and conductor Richard Wagner whose music the king loved. King Ludwig died in 1886 having lived in the castle for only 174 days and Wagner who died in 1883 never even stepped foot in Neuschwanstein Castle. As soon as the king died the castle was opened up to tourists and at least 60 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. Today some 1.3 million people visit Neuschwanstein Castle which was the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castles at Disney theme parks.

Zwinger Palace in Dresden

Zwinger Palace is a magnificent German Baroque building located in the city of Dresden in eastern Germany. Zwinger Palace was built beginning in 1710 for Frederick Augustus also known as Frederick the Strong who had visited Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles and wanted a similar palace for himself. Zwinger Palace suffered great damage during WW II but has since been rebuilt and today is a beautiful tourist attraction in Germany that draws well over 1 million visitors per year.

Fernsehturm Tower in Berlin

The Fernsehturm Tower is a 1,207 foot high observation tower that is a very popular tourist attraction located in the center of the city of Berlin, Germany. The tower was built from 1965-1969 by the East German Communist Government as a symbol of East Berlin and a television tower. Ironically the Fernsehturm Tower became something of an embarrassment to the Communists who did not believe in religion because when the sun shines on the stainless steel dome of the tower the reflection forms a very visible cross.

Today over 1 million people a year visit the Fernsehturm Tower which has two elevators to lift the tourists up to the observation deck for fantastic views of Berlin and as far away as 26 miles on a clear day. There is also a rotating restaurant where visitors can eat with a fabulous view.

Aachen Cathedral or the Imperial Cathedral

The Aachen Cathedral which is also called the Imperial Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church located in western Germany in the city of Aachen. Built beginning in 792 by the Emperor Charlemagne the Aachen Cathedral was renovated around 1100 and restored in 1881. When Charlemagne died in 814 his remains were placed in a vault in Aachen Cathedral with Charlemagne’s body placed sitting on a throne with a golden crown on his head and holding a scepter in his gloved hand. His remains were placed in a casket in the vault in 1215. Aachen Cathedral was the church of coronation for 30 kings and 12 queens which earned it the name of Imperial Cathedral. Today the Aachen Cathedral is a very popular tourist attraction in Germany that sees over 1 million visitors per year.

Europe Travel

Travel Guide : Essential Things for Your Carry-on and Luggage Bags

2010-07-01T23:54:00.000-07:00

Planning your travel is the first and foremost activity before a scheduled trip whether it is for business or personal purposes....

Careful planning will save you from forgetting something (imagine the stress when it happens), and for unexpected buying of necessary things which is usually costly at destinations. Here are some tips on planning, and a list of essential things to bring :

Write it down. There is no better way to start planning than making a list of things to do and things to bring. This will guide us through the whole preparation process.

Travel lightly. Every traveler do not want to be bothered about carrying a burden of luggage, so make it a goal to pack all things as lightly as possible.

Things for Carry-On Bag

For carry-on bag, it is advisable to have a large outsize zippered compartments as well as multiple compartments inside.

Airline tickets, passport, visa, tour vouchers, travel insurance (give copies of your travel insurance and itinerary to any of your relatives or trusted person in case of emergency), a list of contact details ( or have it saved in your mobile) of your accommodation, relatives, or any business contacts at destination.

Valuables such cash, credit cards, traveler’s checks, keys, and jewelry. Other valuables such as camera or if you opt to bring a notebook computer.

Basic personal things and toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup and lipstick (for women), comb or brush, tissue, sunglasses or eyeglasses, contact lenses (with case and solution), mobile phone, religious items (if the traveler used to carry these items), small writing pad and pen.

Handy personal books or other reading material to keep you occupied while waiting on line or for any flight delays.

Bring some cookies or chocolates to keep your energy until the airline in-flight meals are served.

Essential Things for Luggage

Make sure that your luggage bag is just enough for your things, some travelers also prefer to have a distinct color rather than the common colors such as black and blue. This will help you easily spot your luggage during arrival. Make sure luggage tag is complete with your name and correct contact details.

Essential toiletries. Bring small containers of your toiletries and take only as much as you need. Zip-lock plastic bags are useful for small things and compressing the items.

On clothing, bring enough underwear and socks up to the last day of the trip. Choose clothes that are neutral colors, and can easily mix and match. Carry a light trench coat so you can still manage to bring your carry-on bags.

Bring two pair of shoes. Wear one and pack one. Traveling usually takes a lot of walking so make sure that you have a good pair of walking shoes to fully enjoy your trip.

For men : a travel electric shaver

For women: cosmetics kit and other beauty regimen products that might not be available at destination place.

For overseas trip, check the country voltage in advance. It is always safe to bring a 110/220 volt power converters.

An emergency medical kit that contains basic medicines for a cold remedy, upset-stomach, band-aids, and liniment oil to warm the body.

Always check airline luggage policies to avoid hassles at the airport.

Europe Travel

The Wild Beauty of Europe

2010-06-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

Do you want to visit a place of unspoiled natural beauty? Then Montenegro is the place for you. Montenegro is a small country with a little over 620,000 citizens.

Montenegro is surrounded by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Albania. There is access to the beaches on the Adriatic.

Montenegro has two international airports: Podgorica and Tivat. The Airports Council International named Podgorica (TGD) Airport the best airport serving fewer than one million passengers in 2007. If your main objective when visiting Montenegro is to go to the beach, fly into the Tivat airport. If not, fly into the Podgorica airport.

Podgorica is the capital of Montenegro. The population of Podgorica is just over 130,000. It is the meeting place of the five rivers: Zeta, Moraca, Cijevna, Ribnica, and Sitnica. Podgorica is in the Zeta Plain. This is one of the only flat land areas in Montenegro. There are many things to see and do around Podgorica. If you want to shop, go to the Delta City. There is a hypermarket, which is similar to an American supermarket. You can buy clothes at Zara, Esprit, Mango, Strativarius, Pull and Bear and many others. You can also shop on several of the upscale streets near the town center, or you can go to the two open-air markets that are popular with the citizens.

If you want to go to the beach, there are several options; the first is Budva, which is very popular with the younger population. Budva has an exciting nightlife and has many concerts from performers such as Madonna, Lenny Kravitz and David Guetta. There are several other beach destinations including Ulcinj, which is the southern most beach city in Montenegro. Ulcinj has the longest beach in Montenegro. It is also near Ada Bojana, which is a unique river island. There is excellent seafood near Ada Bojana. You can also visit Bar, which has an olive tree that is over 2000 years old. Near Bar is Sutomore where you can find an inexpensive place to stay in a house. You should choose the beach that fits your desired vacation.

You can also spend time in the mountains in Montenegro. If you want to go somewhere that is beautiful and relaxing during the day and lively at night, visit Kolasin. While in Kolasin, you can stay at the beautiful Bianca Resort and Spa. During the day, walk around, take in the beauty of the area, and drink a cup of coffee. During the night, you can go to one of the bars or discotheques where you can dance until early in the morning.

Whatever you choose to do, enjoy your visit to the most beautiful country on the Adriatic!
Europe Travel

Top 10 Places to Visit in Belgium and Why

2010-06-27T04:36:00.000-07:00

Belgium is a small and beautiful country in northwestern Europe and offers many places of interest for every tourist. There are many interesting architectural buildings, monuments, museums to visit and nature lovers can enjoy their time in the beautiful parks, on the beach or even in the hilly Ardennes.

The top ten places to visit in this lovely country of Europe depend on the interest of every traveler and will vary from person to person. Most everyone will surely pick some of these places in their top ten of places to visit in Belgium:

1. Bruges

Bruges can be considered as the most popular city of Belgium and its historic center is recognized by the UNESCO as World heritage center. This charming and medieval city, also called the Venice of the North, has preserved its authenticity and dominated by many historical buildings, the romantic Minnewater Park and its picturesque canals.

Most of the streets in Bruges are narrow and covered with cobblestones. It is difficult driving in this beautiful city of Belgium and it is often difficult to find a parking. It is impossible to sum up all the beauties of Bruges but you may never miss the Belfry Tower, the Market square, the Church of Our Lady and the Beguinage.

You can view the Belfry Tower already when you are on the Market square which is surrounded by medieval buildings. The Belfry Tower has a height of 88 meters and you can reach the top after a climb of 88 steps. From there, you have a beautiful panoramic view on the entire city. The Church of Our Lady is likely the most famous church in Bruges and especially visit for viewing the painting of the Madonna by Michelangelo and the Gothic tombs of Burgundy.

A boat trip on the Reie can’t be missed in Bruges. It is a tour of 30 minutes where you tour around the most beautiful places of Bruges and a guide will inform you about the history and interesting stories of Bruges. The Minnewater Park is the most romantic place is Bruges and you always see swans swimming on this lake.

2. Antwerp

Antwerp is the second largest city of Belgium and also called the city of diamond and fashion. If you are searching for a Valentine’s Day gift for your love, Antwerp is the perfect place for you. The World Diamond Center is located in Antwerp and 70% of all diamonds arrive through Antwerp in Belgium.

The Cathedral of Our Lady is the most important building in Antwerp and can be considered as one of the most famous gothic cathedrals of Europe. The cathedral has a height of 123 meter and you can view this building from almost any place in Antwerp. The town square can be considered as the heart of Antwerp and you can view the Brabo Fountain with the statue of Silvius Brabo. This Roman soldier killed the giant Antigoon who asked exaggerated tolls from the sailors. He has cut his hands and throws this in the River Scheldt.

3. Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a highlight for every traveler who wants to visit historical buildings, museums and important monuments. The Grand Place Square can be considered as the heart of this beautiful city in Belgium. It is one of the most beautiful squares in the world and surrounded by baroque guildhouses, neo-gothic buildings and museums. The town hall is the most impressive building on the Grand Place square and built in gothic style. Many events are organized on the Grand Place Square and one of the most beautiful ones is the Flower Carpet which has been organized every two years in the third week of August. This Flower carpet is created from more than eight hundred thousand begonias and covers more than three hundred square meters.

The most famous statue in Brussels is Manneke Pis and well known worldwide. It is a bronze statue of a little man of 58cm who urinates in the fountain’s basin. When celebrations take place in Brussels, Manneke Pis is dressed in different costumes. This statue can be considered as the symbol of Brussels.

It is impossible to visit all important buildings in Brussels and even to sum them up all. The Saint Michael and Saint Gudula cathedral, originally built in Romanesque style but transformed to gothic style may never be missed. It is impressive through the glass-stained windows and portraits of several kings. Brussels is also the place to be for the best Belgium chocolate from chocolatier Neuhaus.

4. Ghent

Ghent can be considered as the flower city of Belgium. Begonias and azaleas from Ghent are sold in most countries of the world. The Floralies of Ghent is a popular event which takes every 5 year place and exhibit a variety of different flowers and plants. The Citadel Park is a beautiful park where you can view a statue of king Boudewijn I and surrounded by many plants and flowers.

The Gravensteen is a popular monument in Ghent and also called “the castle of the count”. It is a castle and constructed by Philip of Alsasse. This famous building is a “must see” in Ghent and it is maybe recommended to choose for a guided tour. A panoramic view from the top is worth your time to visit. The Belfry tower is another important building in Ghent and has a height of 91 meters. The Saint Baafscathedral houses paintings of the famous Flemish painter Jan Van Eyck. Most everyone will visit this cathedral to admire The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb of this painter.

5. Ostend

Ostend is the largest city of the Belgian coast and a popular place for people who like to spend some time on the beach at the Nordsea. When you walk along the beach you always see some birds flying in the air. It is a perfect place for bicycling or walking in one of their parks.

The Leopold park is the most famous park in Ostend and popular because of its famous Floral Clock. This clock is made from 20.000 different plants and looks adorable through the variety of the different colors of these flowers and plants. When you visit this Floral Clock in summer, you can see the exact date. Another important park is the Maria Hendrick Park where you find a beautiful lake (Mirror Lake).

6. Hasselt

Hasselt is likely the most sociable city in Belgium and also called the city of the taste. It is the perfect place for shopping and enjoying from different delicatessen of Hasselt. It is located at the Demer River and the Albert Canal. The market square is impressive and you can admire the Town hall, built in gothic style, and the statue of Katrien and Hendrick who represent the two first habitants of Hasselt.

The Japanese garden in Hasselt is the largest authentic garden of Europe and constructed with the help of the Japanese city Itamy. This garden is 2,5 ha large and is divided in different areas. A typical feature of this garden is the rich use of rocks. There is also a waterfall which has been inspired by the one in Kyoto.

7. Leuven

Leuven is the university city of Belgium. The statue “Fonske” represent a student who is reading a book and has a glass of beer in his right hand. This statue can be considered as the symbol of the University of Leuven. It is wonderful to visit this city in June when students are lying in the sun to study for their examination. The University of Leuven (K.U.Leuven) is the oldest catholic university in the world and is likely the most important building in Leuven. The ground floor of the main hall is in gothic style.

The Saint Peter’s church is surely your visit worth, especially for the decoration inside, and is built in gothic style. The botanical garden “Hortus Botanicus Lovaniensis” may not be missed and contains plants of therapeutic power, herb gardens, greenhouses and some statues.

8. The Haspengouw

The Haspengouw is a beautiful region in Belgium and especially popular for its beautiful landscape. There are many farms and agriculture is the main activity in this area of Belgium. A visit to this region in Belgium can best be done when you can see the blossoms of fruit trees. Sint Truiden is the market center of the fruit industry in Belgium. You can even see some statues of fruit (apple, pear) on the Market square of this city.

Tongeren is another beautiful city in the Haspengouw and besides the beautiful landscape well known for the statue of Ambiorix. You can also visit many impressive remains of the Romans in this city, for example the Roman wall, the Gallo museum and it is possible to make a tour with the Ambiorix tourist train where you can view the most beautiful sights of Tongeren.

9. Kortrijk

Kortrijk is a city which holds many remains of the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302. An important monument is the Maiden and is located in the Groeningepark. You can enter this park when you go under the Groeningegate. The Groeningegate is an arc de triomphe which commemorates the Battle of the Gulden Spurs.

Kortrijk is a wonderful place in Belgium and lies on the river Leie. This river enters Kortrijk on the site of the Broeltowers which are remains of the former city fortifications. The Belfry tower (located on the Market square) and the Beguinage are two important monuments which are recognized by the UNESCO as world heritage center.

Kortrijk is a beautiful city to visit and most monuments are located on a short distance from each other.

10. Knokke

Knokke is a popular place on the Belgian coast which attracts every year many tourists. People can walk along the beach but they likely also prefer to visit “the butterfly garden” and “the Zwin” which can be considered as the two top attractions of Knokke. Nobody may miss to walk along the Zoutestraat and the Kustlaan which are the most famous shopping streets in Knokke.

The butterfly garden is a place where you enter first a forest of exotic plants. There are more than 300 butterflies from different countries which flutter and flit where ever you go in this garden. It is possible some will land on your hand and it is amazing to see the variety of different colors of these beautiful insects.

The Zwin can be considered as the most beautiful nature reserve at the Belgian coast. Every year, many thousands of birds reach the Zwin to lay their eggs and even looking for food. With a little bit of luck, you can view some rare birds like the little egret, the avocet and the harrier. When you enter the Zwin, you come first in a place where you can view some birds in cages, for example owls and some others. A little bit further, you come along a park with many pelicans. You can spend hours in this natural park without boring one minute.

Belgium offers more interesting places to visit and some may even belong to your top ten places to visit in Europe. It is really difficult to narrow this list to only ten places and everyone will have other preferences but most everyone will pick some of these places in their top ten list of Belgium. Belgium is really a wonderful country with beautiful architecture, many beautiful parks and excellent food.

Europe Travel

Tips on Finding a Good Travel Agent and Travel Agency

2010-06-24T09:01:00.000-07:00

Many people travel with expectations of encountering something new and unexpected, but of course, everyone wants the surprises to be pleasant ones.

This is where a good travel agent comes in. It is the travel agent’s task to match the clients’ expectations, as closely as possible, to reality. Because travel consultation is a skill that gets better with practice, it is also useful to know the length of the time the agent has been in the business. An agent who has at least five years experience in the industry would be ideal.

Because the travel industry is information-intensive, it is best to deal with an agent who knows how to work through the quagmire of date, which includes the thousands of daily changes in airfares among the millions of fares in the agent’s data bank.

Ask about the agent’s credentials. Briefly inquire about the certifications. This will give you an idea of how serious the travel agent is about the business.

The travel industry constantly changes. It will be helpful to know if a travel agent constantly updates his or her skills, or is working to maintain or receive a certification.

Before giving an advanced deposit for a product that you will use or avail on a later date, such as a grand tour involving a significant amount of money, be ensured that the agency is financially stable. Ask which travel association the agency is affiliated and check if no complaints have been filed against the agency.

It is very important that you feel comfortable talking with an agent, because you need to be honest in discussing your travel dreams and how much you can really afford to spend. You should need to be comfortable discussing your vital eccentricities that can affect the enjoyment of your planned trip. This will also help the agent determine the accommodations and tour spots that will be suggested to you.

A good travel agent asks plenty of questions regarding your past travel experience/s, what you liked or didn’t like, the airlines and accommodations you prefer, any medical conditions, etc. A good agent keeps this client information on file because this will greatly speed up the process of satisfying the client’s travel needs.

An agent who is willing to provide you with competitive information as a result of careful research is a good one. A good travel agent will recommend several travel options, explain penalties and restrictions, help you in obtaining travel needs such as passports and the other requirements, obtain amenities and other value-added benefits for you, and will be available to help solve problems should something go wrong. A working contact number of the agent is very important.

A good travel agency is able to command a much better price for an accommodation for you than what you can get if you do it on your own.

Brochures and other literature from the travel agency should provide good details such as names of specific hotels, resorts, and even transportation. If there are no such details mentioned, it may mean that the agency has not locked in any reservations. Meal programs must be clearly stated. Know if the menu is a preset one or an a la carte. Are the actual tour leaders mentioned? It is important to know who will handle the tours—is it the owner, the employees, or interns? Small companies have tours that are usually led by the owners themselves. Middle-sized to large companies hire knowledgeable guides or train them in-house. Either practice is fine. You might be taking a chance if your tour will be conducted by an intern without the guide of an experienced agent along.

A good travel agent and agency with a proven track record can give you a list of people and companies who provide accommodation and transportation services at various destinations which have been developed through years of experience and networking. You may contact these operators to have an idea of regarding their experience with the travel agent or agency.

Find out the agency’s policy regarding deposits and refunds. Ask how the agency handles tour cancellations, because this is a reality that happens, say, for example a political unrest or natural disasters that unexpectedly occur in the destination.

These are just some of the things you have to consider when planning your travel and choosing your travel agent.

Source Athena Goodlight

Travel Tips: Air Travel

2010-06-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

Here are a few luggage-related tips that will help when travelling by air:

1) Always find out what the limits are in terms of size, weight and contents for hand baggage;

2) Be aware that all your luggage may be opened by airport security staff;

3) Always ensure that your checked in bags are easily identified when on a luggage carousel;

4) Make certain that your baggage will not become snagged due to protrusions or straps when on the luggage conveyor system;

5) If you are carrying a laptop you will need to keep it with you as hand luggage;

6) Put all your valuables in your hand luggage;

7) Be prepared for baggage loss by ensuring you have essentials in your hand luggage.

Be aware that you can save a fortune on Glasgow airport parking by booking in advance.

Mark Miwords ID2205

Tip for Relieving Air Pressure in your Ears new

Try eating an apple when taking off and landing (this works best for kids, as they cannot chew gum properly yet); for adults, chew gum.

Charlotte ID2215

A Little Preparation ...

I find that a combination of several common tips goes a long way toward preventing flying problems, or at least making them more tolerable. I go with one carry-on, make sure it's a little smaller than the minimum size, bring my own food and drink onto the plane, bring at least one good book if not two, eat in the airport before the flight, and get to the airport a little early. I've never had to check a bag, and I've never had missing or damaged luggage. I've never been bored during flight delays. I've never been hungry or thirsty on flights. A little preparation goes a long way.

Thomas Miller

Advance Attention to Safety

When boarding the aircraft, make a mental note of all exits, and count how many seat rows you pass from the exit to your row. This will expedite your escape route in case of an emergency landing if there is smoke and/or power loss in the cabin. And by all means, pay attention to the flight crew! No matter how boring or uninteresting it may sound, their instructions are vital ... and read the aircraft emergency procedure manual completely before takeoff. These are located in the pouch right in front of you. Do this - it pays to be prepared for flight. Knowledge is power, and armed with the basics you can sit back and enjoy your flight.

Adam Taylor

europetravel365days

Travel to Budapest, one of the most beautiful cities in central Europe

2010-06-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

Straddling the romantic Danube River, with the Buda Hills to the west and the start of the Great Plain to the east, Budapest is the most beautiful city in central Europe. And the human legacy is just as remarkable as Mother Nature’s.

Architecturally, Budapest is a gem, with enough baroque, neoclassical, Eclectic and art nouveau (or Secessionist) buildings to satisfy anyone’s appetite. With parks brimming with attractions, museums filled with treasures, pleasure boats sailing up and down the scenic Danube and Turkish-era thermal baths belching steam, the Hungarian capital is a delight both by day and by night. The food and wine are excellent, cheap and in abundance and the nightlife is hot. Indeed, in recent years, Budapest has taken on the role of the region’s party town, especially in the warmer months when outdoor entertainment areas called kertek (literally ‘gardens’) heave with party makers.

Budapest does have its scars, of course, with organised crime, pollution, international fast-food eateries at every corner and mindless graffiti covering much of that gorgeous architecture. But come a fine spring (or summer or brisk autumn) day and all that will go by the by. Stroll along the Duna korzó, the riverside embankment on the Pest side, or across any of the Danube bridges past young couples embracing passionately. It’s then that you’ll feel the romance that, despite all attempts from both within and without to destroy it, has never died.

Getting there and around

Local transport

Taxi

Taxis in Budapest are not expensive compared to other European countries, but with such an excellent public transport network available, you don't really have to use them very often. We've heard from many readers who were grossly overcharged and even threatened by taxi drivers in Budapest, so taking a taxi in this city should be approached with a certain amount of caution. However, the reputable firms listed here have caught on to the concept of customer service, and they take complaints very seriously nowadays.

Avoid taxis with no name on the door and only a removable taxi light-box on the roof; these are just guys with cars and the ones most likely to rip you off. Never get into a cab that does not have a yellow licence plate and an identification badge displayed on the dashboard (as required by law), the logo of one of the reputable taxi firms listed here on the side doors, and a table of fares posted prominently.

Not all taxi meters are set at the same rates, and some are much more expensive than others, but there are price ceilings under which cab companies are free to manoeuvre. From 6am to 10pm the highest flag-fall fee that can be legally charged is 300Ft, the per-kilometre charge 240Ft and the waiting fee 60Ft. From 10pm to 6am the equivalent fees are 420/330/80Ft.

Budapest residents - local or foreign - rarely flag down taxis in the street. They almost always ring for them, and fares are actually cheaper if you book over the phone. Make sure you know the number of the landline phone you're calling from as that's how they establish your address (though you can, of course, call from a mobile phone, too).

The following are the telephone numbers of reliable taxi firms.

Buda - 233 3333

City - 211 1111

Fő - 222 2222

Rádió - 377 7777

Tele 5 - 355 5555

Bus and tram

Local

An extensive system of almost 200 buses serves greater Budapest. On certain bus lines the same number bus may have a black or a red number. In such cases, the red-numbered one is an express, which makes limited stops and is, of course, faster.

Some buses (always shown with a blue line on a Budapest map or atlas) that you might find useful include the following:

4 - Runs from northern Pest via VI Hősök tere to V Deák Ferenc tér (the red 4 follows the same route but crosses over Chain Bridge into central Buda).

7- Cuts across a large swathe of central Pest from XIV Bosnyák tér and down VII Rákóczi út before crossing Elizabeth Bridge to Kelenföld train station in southern Buda (the red-numbered 7 follows the same route with limited stops).

86- Runs the length of Buda from XI Kosztolányi Dezső tér to Óbuda.

105- Goes from V Deák Ferenc tér to XII Apor Vilmos tér in central Buda.

Night bus 906- Follows tram 6's route along the Big Ring Road.

Night bus 907- Traces an enormously long route from the M2 Örs vezér tere metro stop in Pest to Kelenföld train station in Buda.

Long-distance and international

All international buses and some domestic ones (especially to/from north and north-central Hungary) arrive at and depart from Pest's Népliget bus station(219 8000; IX Üllői út 131; M3 Népliget). The international ticket office(6am-6pm Mon-Fri Sep-May, 6pm-8pm Mon-Fri Jun-Aug, 6am-4pm Sat & Sun) is upstairs. Eurolines(219 8021; www.eurolines.com), an association of more than 30 European bus companies that link Budapest with points abroad as close as Bratislava and as far as London, is represented here as is its Hungarian associate, Volánbusz(382 0888; www.volanbusz.hu). There's a left-luggage office(per piece per day 190Ft; 6am-9pm) downstairs.

Stadionok bus station(251 0125; XIV Hungária körút 48-52; M3 Stadionok) serves cities and towns to the east of Budapest. The ticket office(6am-6pm Mon-Fri, 6am-4pm Sat & Sun) as well as the left-luggage office(per piece 200Ft; 6am-7pm) are on the ground floor. Buses to southwest Hungary use Etele tér bus station(382 4900; XI Etele tér; 6am-6pm; red-numbered 7) in Buda.

The Árpád Bridge bus station (329 1450; XIII Róbert Károly körút; ticket office 6am-8pm; M3 Árpád híd), on the Pest side of Árpád Bridge, is the place to catch buses for the Danube Bend and parts of northern Hungary. The small Széna tér bus station(201 3688; I Széna tér 1/a; ticket office 6.30am-4.30pm; M3 Moszkva tér) in Buda handles some traffic to and from the Pilis Hills and towns northwest of the capital, with a half-dozen departures to Esztergom as an alternative to the Árpád Bridge bus station.

Tram

Trams are often faster than buses in Budapest and usually more pleasant for sightseeing. The most important tram lines (always marked with red lines on a Budapest map or atlas) are the following:

2 and 2/a -Scenic trams that travel along the Pest side of the Danube as far as V Jászai Mari tér

4 and 6 -Extremely useful trams that start at XI Fehérvári út and XI Móricz Zsigmond körtér in south Buda respectively and follow the entire length of the Big Ring Road in Pest before terminating at II Moszkva tér in Buda

18 -Runs from southern Buda along XI Bartók Béla út through the Tabán to II Moszkva tér

19 -Covers part of the same route as 18, but then runs along the Buda side of the Danube to I Batthyány tér

47 & 49 -Link V Deák Ferenc tér in Pest with points in southern Buda via the Little Ring Road

61 -Connects XI Móricz Zsigmond körtér with Déli train station and II Moszkva tér in Buda

Air

Budapest can be reached directly from destinations around the world, including the USA, but its most important gateways are in Continental Europe, especially now that what Hungarians call the fapados (wooden bench) airlines - the super discount carriers such as Air Berlin(www.airberlin.com), EasyJet(www.easyjet.com), SkyEurope(www.skyeurope.com) and Wizzair(www.wizzair.com) - have arrived, bringing the cost of flying between Budapest and dozens of European cities to a level that fits most travellers' budget. Fares vary greatly depending on the destination, availability and the time of the flight.

Note that there are no scheduled flights within Hungary.

Airlines

National carrier, Malév Hungarian Airlines (MA; in Hungary 06-40 212 121, from abroad 36-1 235 3888; www.malev.hu), flies nonstop or to Budapest via Prague, Madrid or Amsterdam from North America, the Middle East and almost 60 cities in continental Europe and the UK. It also flies to/from Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou in China.

The main Malév Customer Service Centre(235 3222; www.malev.hu; XIII Váci út 26; 8.30am-7pm Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm Sat and Sun; M3 Nyugati pályaudvar) is just northwest of Nyugati train station. Malév also has ticket-issuing desks at Ferihegy airport.

Other major carriers serving Budapest:

Aeroflot (SU; 318 5955; www.aeroflot.com; hub Moscow)

Air Canada(AC; 266 8435; www.aircanada.com; hub Toronto)

Air France (AF; 483 8800; www.airfrance.com; hub Paris)

Alitalia (AZ; 483 2170; www.alitalia.it; hub Rome)

Austrian Airlines (OS; 327 9080; www.aua.com; hub Vienna)

British Airways (BA; 411 5555; www.ba.com; hub London)

CSA Czech Airlines (OK; 318 3045; www.czech-airlines.com; hub Prague)

El Al (LY; 266 2970; www.elal.com; hub Tel Aviv)

EgyptAir(MS; 266 4300; www.egyptair.com.eg; hub Cairo)

Finnair(AY; 317 4022; www.finnair.com; hub Helsinki)

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL; 373 7737; www.klm.com; hub Amsterdam)

LOT Polish Airlines (LO; 317 2444; www.lot.com; hub Warsaw)

Lufthansa(LH; 266 4511; www.lufthansa.com; hub Frankfurt)

SAS (SK; 266 2633; www.scandinavian.net; hub Copenhagen)

Tarom Romanian Airlines (RO; 235 0809; www.tarom.ro; hub Bucharest)

Turkish Airlines (TK; 266 4291; www.turkishairlines.com; hub Istanbul)

Airports

Budapest's Ferihegy International Airport(296 7000; www.bud.hu), 24km southeast of the city centre, has two modern terminals side by side and an older one about 5km to the west.

Malév flights and, for the most part, those of its 18 or so code-share partners arrive and depart from Terminal 2A. Most other international airlines use Terminal 2B, which is next door and within easy walking distance. Malév has a ticketing desk at Terminal 2A (296 7211; 5am-11pm) and another one at Terminal 2B (296 5767; 6am-8.30pm); at the latter you'll also find a left-luggage office (per item per 1/3/6hr 350/1050/1400Ft, per day/week 2200/6500Ft; 24hr). The super-discount European carriers, recent arrivals to Budapest, now use the refurbished Terminal 1.

The Airport Minibus Service(296 8555; mini bus@bud.hu; one way/return 2300/3900Ft) ferries passengers in eight-seater vans from all three of the airport's terminals directly to their hotel, hostel or residence. Tickets are available at a clearly marked desk in the arrival halls. You need to book your journey to the airport 24 hours in advance but remember that, with up to seven pick-ups en route, this can be a nerve-wracking way to go if you're running late.

If you want to take a taxi, call one of the taxi companies with a mobile or from a public phone at arrivals (dispatchers understand English) and expect to pay about 5000Ft. If you book in advance, Tele 5 (355 5555) charges 3490Ft between the airport and Pest and 3990Ft for Buda. Its taxis are just down the road, awaiting your call.

The cheapest - but most time-consuming - way to get into town from Ferihegy is to take the airport bus (look for the stop marked 'BKV Plusz Reptér Busz' on the pavement between terminals 2A and 2B), which terminates at the Kőbánya-Kispest metro station. From there take the M3 metro into the centre. The total cost is 320Ft.

Car and motorcycle

Driving in Budapest, especially during the daytime, can be a nightmare: ongoing road works reduce traffic to a snail's pace, there are more serious accidents than fender-benders, and parking spots are difficult to find. The public-transport system is good and cheap. Try to use it.

Foreign driving licences are valid for one year after entering Hungary but if you don't hold a European driving licence, obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your local automobile association before you leave. It is usually inexpensive and valid for one year only. Remember that an IDP is not valid unless accompanied by your original driver's licence.

Third-party liability insurance is compulsory in Hungary. If your car is registered in the EU, it is assumed you have it. Other motorists must show a Green Card or they will have to buy insurance at the border.

Hire

In general, you must be at least 21 years old and have had your licence for at least a year to rent a car. Drivers under 25 sometimes have to pay a surcharge.

All the international car-rental firms have offices in Budapest but don't expect many bargains. An Opel Corsa from Avis(318 4158; www.avis.hu in Hungarian; 1054 Budapest, Szabadsag ter 7; 7am-6pm Mon-Sat, 8am-6pm Sun; 1/2/3 Deák Ferenc tér), for example, costs €33/198 per day/week plus €0.33 per kilometre and €23 CDW and theft protection insurance. The same car with unlimited kilometres and insurance costs from €99 per day or €88 per weekend. The 25% ÁFA (value-added tax) doesn't apply to nonresidents paying with foreign currency or by credit card.

One of the cheapest, most reliable outfits for car hire is Anselport(362 6080, 06-20 945 0279; www.anselport.hu; XXII V utca 22; 9am-6pm; 14 or 114) in south Buda. A Suzuki Swift is €19 to €43 per day, including unlimited kilometres and insurance, depending on the length of rental (one day to three weeks). Another good bet is Fox Autorent(382 9000; www.fox-autorent.com; XXII Nagytétényi út 48-50; 8am-8pm; 3, 14 or 114), which charges from €46/230 per day/week for a Fiat Seicento, €55/320 for a Smart car and €59/349Boat

Local

Between May and mid-September passenger ferries run by BKV (369 1359; www.bkv.hu) depart from IX Boráros tér beside Petőfi Bridge between six and eight times daily and head for III Rómaifürdő and Csillaghegy in Óbuda, a two-hour trip with 10 stops along the way. Tickets (adult/child 600/300Ft from end to end or between 500/250Ft and 200/150Ft for intermediate stops) are sold on board. The ferry stop closest to the Castle District is I Batthyány tér, and V Petőfi tér is not far from Vörösmarty tér. Transporting a bicycle costs 500Ft.

International

A hydrofoil service on the Danube between Budapest and Vienna (5½ to 6½ hours, 282km) operates daily from early April to October and allows passengers to disembark at Bratislava with advance notice. One-way/return adult fares for Vienna are €79/99 and for Bratislava €69/89. Students with ISIC cards pay €67/84 to Vienna and €59/76 to Bratislava and children under six go free. Taking along a bicycle costs €18 each way.

In Budapest, ferries arrive and depart from the International Ferry Pier (Nemzetközi hajóállomás; V Belgrád rakpart), which is between Elizabeth and Independence Bridges on the Pest side. In Vienna, the boat docks at the Reichsbrücke pier near Mexikoplatz.

In April and from mid-September to October there is a daily sailing at 9am from both Budapest and Vienna. From May to mid-September the boats leave both of these cities at 8am.

For information, tickets and reservations contact Mahart PassNave (484 4013; www.mahartpassnave.hu; V Belgrád rakpart; 8am-6pm).

Train

Magyar Államvasutak (Hungarian State Railways; www.mav.hu in Hungarian), or MÁV, links up with the European rail network in all directions, running trains as far as London (via Munich and Paris), Paris (via Munich), Stockholm (via Hamburg and Copenhagen), Moscow, Rome and Istanbul (via Belgrade).

Budapest has three main train stations. Most international trains arrive and depart from Keleti train station (Eastern train station; 313 6835; VIII Kerepesi út 2-6; M3 Keleti pályaudvar); trains to certain destinations in the east (eg Romania) leave from Nyugati train station(Western train station; 349 0115; VI Teréz körút 55-57; M3 Nyugati pályaudvar), while Déli train station(Southern train station; 375 6293, 355 8657; I Krisztina körút 37; M2 Déli pályaudvar) handles trains to some destinations in the south (eg Osijek in Croatia and Sarajevo in Bosnia). These are not hard-and-fast rules, so always make sure you check which station the train leaves from when you buy a ticket.

The handful of secondary train stations are of little importance to long-distance travellers. Occasionally, though, a through train will stop at Kelenföld train station (203 1687; XI Etele tér 5-7; 19 or 49) in Buda. For 24-hour information on international train services call 461 5500 or 06-40 494 949.

Budapest's train stations are generally pretty dismal places, with some unsavoury-looking characters hanging about day and night, but all have some amenities. The left-luggage offices (normal/large piece per 6hr 150/300Ft, per day 300/600Ft) at Keleti station(24hr) is next to platform 6. At Nyugati station(4am-midnight) and at the Déli station(3.30am-11.30pm) they are beside the information and ticketing hall. You'll also find post offices and grocery stores that are open late or even round the clock in the stations.

The three main stations are on metro lines, and night buses serve them when the metro is closed. If you need to take a taxi, avoid the sharks hovering around the stations. At Déli, cross over to I Alkotás utca and hail one there. At Keleti station, get into one of the legal cabs at the rank on VIII Kerepesi út, just south of the terminal. Nyugati tér is a major intersection, so you'll have no problem finding a legitimate taxi there.

You can buy tickets at the three international train stations in Budapest, but the queues are often long, passengers are in a hurry, and sales staff at the stations are not the most patient in the city. It's easier at the MÁV international information & ticket centre(461 5500, 352 2800; VI Andrássy út 35; 9am-6pm Mon-Fri Apr-Sep, 9am-5pm Mon-Fri Oct-Mar; M1 Opera). For fares, check www.elvira.hu.

Bicycle

More and more cyclists are seen on the streets and avenues of Budapest these days, taking advantage of the growing network of bike paths. The main roads in the city might be a bit too busy and nerve-wracking to make for enjoyable cycling but the side streets are fine, and there are some areas (City Park, Margaret Island etc) where cycling is positively ideal.

Cyclists may have problems crossing Hungarian border stations connected to main roads since bicycles are banned on motorways and national highways with single-digit route numbers. In general, border crossings that allow pedestrian crossings also allow cyclists through. for a Fiat Punto, kilometres and insurance included.

Source: lonelyplanet

Emirates places record $11bn order for Airbus A380s

2010-06-13T17:27:00.000-07:00

Emirates airlines has ordered 32 Airbus A380 superjumbo jets, in what the manufacturer said was the world's most expensive order of commercial aircraft.

Emirates's order, announced a the opening of the Berlin Air Show, would be worth just over $11bn at a list price of $346.5m per plane – although airlines typically receive discounts for large orders.

It brings the Dubai airline's total A380 order to 90 planes, all for delivery by 2017.

"Our latest commitment signals Emirates' confidence in growth to come," Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chief executive, said at a press conference.

The scale of the order surprised Emirates' competitors.

"It is already to many of us a miracle that Emirates now already has more seats on intercontinental routes than Air France and BA together with a relatively small home market," Wolfgang Mayrhuber, Lufthansa chief executive, said in a briefing at the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) annual meeting.

"One must assume that this is not an investment for the UAE, but it is an investment for the world."

Emirates, which started in 1985 with two planes, has grown to rival the likes of Qantas and Singapore Airlines for traffic between Europe and east Asia and is expected to earn $1.16 billion in 2010.

Airbus sales chief John Leahy, who had previously forecast 20 A380 orders this year, said more orders were still possible.

It came as Airbus parent EADS showed off the capabilities of its embattled A400M military transporter plane and as it faces a dispute with German military bosses over problems with two of its new helicopters.

Source telegraph

Five free things to do in Rome

2010-06-10T18:09:00.000-07:00

Much of Rome can be seen without spending a penny (unless you insist on casting your coppers into one of the city's many fountains). The glorious Pantheon, Hadrian's 2nd-century masterpiece, ought to be your first port of call, but arrive at 7pm and you can take advantage of a free 30-minute tour with the company Angel Tours.

Architecture

Catch a glimpse of the nearby Piazza Navona, before braving the crowds at the Trevi Fountain. Then head for the Spanish Steps, an 18th-century addition to the city which is now surrounded by countless designer boutiques - each ideal for some forlorn window shopping.

Religion

Visitors are welcome to wander the ground floor of the cavernous St Peter's Basilica, while entrance to the Vatican Museum - which houses works by Titian, Poussin and several paintings by Caravaggio, as well as the Sistine Chapel - is free on the last Sunday of each month. Sky Tours Rome offers free 30-minute tours of St Peter's Basilica at 9am every morning, except Sundays. There are more than 900 other churches in Rome, many of which are free to explore.

Learning

A small number of museums and galleries are free to enter. The gallery at the National Academy of San Luca, which holds works by Rafael and van Dyck, the Historic Museum of the Liberation of Rome, on Via Tasso, and the Numismatic Museum of the Italian Mint, where visitors can peruse 20,000 medals and coins, are three of the best.

Unfortunately, the tradition of La Notte Bianca, a single night in September when all museums are free to enter throughout the night, has been abandoned since 2007, although the Italian Tourist Board says it may return in future.

Parks

Gianicolo Park, south of the Vatican, boasts wonderful views of Rome and plays host to a free puppet show each day.

Across town, the elegant gardens at the Villa Borghese (pictured) are perfect for a romantic stroll. Entrance to the Galleria Borghese and the adjacent Villa Medici is not free.

Quirky Rome

Legend has it that if one tells a lie with one's hand inside La Bocca della Verita ("The Mouth of Truth"), it will be bitten clean off. Head to the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin on the banks of the Tiber to put the myth to the test.

The Capuchin Crypt, meanwhile, is even more bizarre. Located beneath the Church of Santa Maria della Immacolata Concezione, it is a vast burial chamber decorated with the bones of some 4,000 Capuchin monks. With rooms such as the 'Crypt of the Skulls', the 'Crypt of the Pelvises' and the 'Crypt of Leg Bones', it's the perfect outing for bored teenagers. Entrance is free, although donations are encouraged.

Source: telegraph

Travel to Berlin: Top 10 Picks

2010-06-08T06:43:00.000-07:00

Twenty years after its post-Wall rebirth, Berlin is a scene-stealing combo of glamour and grit, teeming with top museums and galleries, grand opera and guerrilla clubs, gourmet temples and ethnic snack shacks. Whether your tastes run to posh or punk, you can sate them in Berlin.

When it comes to fashion, art, design and music, the German capital is the city to watch. A global influx of creatives has turned it into a cauldron of cultural cool reminiscent of New York in the ’80s. What draws them is Berlin’s legendary climate of tolerance, openness and experimentation infused with an edgy undercurrent that gives this ‘eternally unfinished’ city its street cred. Cheap rents don’t hurt either.

All this trendiness is a triumph for a town that’s long been in the cross-hairs of history: Berlin staged a revolution, was headquartered by fascists, bombed to bits, ripped in half and finally reunited – and that was just in the 20th century! Famous landmarks such as the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and what’s left of the Berlin Wall are like a virtual 3-D textbook in a city where you’ll find history staring you in the face every time you turn a corner.

Perhaps it’s because of its heavy historical burden that Berlin is throwing itself into tomorrow with such contagious energy. At times the entire city seems to be bubbling over into one huge party. Cafes are jammed at all hours, drinking is a religious rite and clubs host their scenes of frenzy and hedonism until the wee hours. Sleep? Fuhgeddaboutit!

Yet despite its often hectic pace, Berlin functions on an exquisitely human scale. Traffic flows freely, public transportation is brilliant, you can walk without fear at night, clubs have no velvet ropes and your restaurant bill would only buy you a starter back home. Come and join the party and be swept away by the riches, quirks and vibrancy of this fascinating city.

Top 10 Picks For Berlin

1.Get high at the TV Tower

Take in unbeatable 360-degree views of Berlin from the Fernsehturm, Germany's tallest structure.
The TV Tower is the tallest structure in Germany, soaring 368m above Berlin since 1969. Come early to beat the queue for the lift ride to the panorama level at 203m, where views are unbeatable on clear days. From here and the upstairs café, which makes one revolution in 30 minutes, you can easily pinpoint landmarks and study the city layout

Address: Panoramastrasse 1a, Alexanderplatz Area
Tickets: Full €8, child €4

2.Revere the Reichstag

Stand in awe of history at Germany’s political power nexus.
Just north of the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag has been the seat of the Bundestag (German parliament), since 1999 following a complete renovation by Lord Norman Foster. The British architect turned the 1894 building by Paul Wallot into a state-of-the-art parliamentary facility, preserving only the historical shell and adding the glistening glass dome.
The view from the top is one of the highlights of visit to Berlin, as much for the 360-degree panorama of the city as for the close-ups of the dome. From the outdoor viewing platform you can climb the spiralling ramp inside the dome itself. At the top, displays document the building's history.
The Reichstag has been the setting of numerous milestones in German history: the proclamation of the German republic, the Reichstag fire in 1933 allowing Hitler to blame the communists and seize power, the Soviet attack a dozen years later which destroyed the building, and the enactment of the reunification of Germany on 2 October 1990.
Address: Platz der Republik 1, Tiergarten, 10557
Transport: train Hauptbahnhof, bus 100

3.Visit the Checkpoint Charlie Museum

Stand in a hot spot of the Cold War, location of the famed tower that symbolised East-West tension.
The Checkpoint Charlie Museum is all that remains of the famed tower that symbolised East-West tension during the Cold War. The tower itself was unceremoniously craned away a few months after the border reopened. In 2001, a replica guardhouse was returned to the site (the original is in the Allierten Museum in Zehlendorf).
The museum is interesting (if overpriced), with its display of ingenious devices employed in escape attempts from the former East Germany. It doesn't make it any easier to comprehend that this nondescript urban landscape was one of the critical pressure points in the global stand-off between East and West, and the scene of 80 deaths.
To the west of the museum is the East Side Gallery, a surviving chunk of the real Wall, preserved by the city authorities and decorated by local artists.

Address: Friedrichstrasse 43-45, Kreuzberg
Transport: train: Stadtmitte, train: Kochstrasse

4.Catch the art express at the Hamburger Banhhof

Admire the star-studded collection of contemporary art at this converted 19th-century train station. Berlin's premier contemporary art museum has a star-studded collection, including works by Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Anselm Kiefer as well as an entire wing of Joseph Beuys. Occupying a cleverly converted 19th-century railway station and adjacent 300m-long warehouse, it also has great temporary exhibits, a well-stocked art bookshop and a popular café called Sarah Wiener im Hamburger Bahnhof.
Address: Invalidenstrasse 50-51, Government Quarter
Transport: train: Hauptbahnhof
Tickets: adult/under 16/concession €8/free/4, Thu last 4hr free

5.Catch a cabaret show at Bar jeder Vernunft

Flash back to Roaring Twenties glamour at this dazzling art nouveau-style tent hosting cult cabaret shows. Entertainers at this wonderful venue have a veritable cult following and shows - many with a camp or bizarre bent - are often sold out. Part of the draw is the exquisite setting: a historic Art Nouveau-style tent decked out with dazzling mirrors and booths bathed in red-velvet and candlelight. After the show, the place turns into a relaxed piano bar.
Address: Schaperstr 24, Wilmersdorf, 10719
Transport: underground rail: Spichernstr, Uhlandstr
Tickets: €14.00-€30.00

6. Spot celebrities at Cookies

Sip signature Watermelon Man cocktails and scan the crowd for celebs at this legendary midweek party palace. The seventh incarnation of this legendary midweek party palace has been cooking since January 2007, this time in a former East Berlin cinema behind the Westin Hotel. Once past the picky bouncers, it's all about dancing with friendly folk, sipping the signature Watermelon Man cocktail and scanning the crowd for celeb sightings.
Address: Friedrichstrasse 158-164, Unter Den Linden
Transport: underground rail: Französische Strasse
Tickets: full €10

7. Go tobogganing at Potsdamer Platz

Go for the ride of your life on the mobile toboggan run, or get your skates on and hit the ice rink.

8.See the awe of the Tor

Take in the famous Brandenburg Gate (Tor), a backdrop for presidential speeches, Pink Floyd concerts and World Cup soccer matches.

9.Eyeball the Wall at the East Side Gallery

Check out the longest Berlin Wall remnant, also the world's biggest outdoor canvas.

10. Queue for currywurst at Curry 36

Join legions of locals at this legendary imbiss (snackbar) for sausage with spice.

Source: lonelyplanet

Best beaches on the Ionian Islands, Greece: Myrtiotissa, Corfu

2010-06-08T05:58:00.000-07:00

This beautiful beach in Parelia, on the Ionian island of Corfu, is known as Myrtiotissa and is popular with families and nudists.

You will have the chance to decide if you concur with Lawrence Durrell’s claim in Prospero’s Cell that this pearl in the middle of Corfu’s scenic west coast is “perhaps the most beautiful beach in the world”. Tucked beneath steep cliffs, the southern half of its stretch of golden sand, barely 650 feet long, is now the island’s prime nudist beach.

Who goes?

It is not unusual to see families enjoying a picnic at the more modest northern end, while quite a mixed crowd opt to allow some sun on their nether regions to the south. The good news is you needn’t feel obliged to be a bronzed Adonis or Aphrodite to dispense with your togs here.

What is there to do?

The lack of noisy boats and water sport facilities is one of the attractions here, so just lounging around and taking leisurely dips is the order of the day. If you tire of the beach scene, you can visit the tiny monastery of Our Lady of the Myrtles that hangs precariously above the north end of the cove.

Bars and bites

There are just a couple of seasonal snack bars for refreshment down on the beach. For something more substantial, the nearest place is the Myrtia taverna (0030 26610 94113), just back from the cliff top, which serves delicious home cooking and fine barrelled wine. For clubbing, make for Corfu Town.

Getting there

Buses to Vatos from Corfu Town take around 20 minutes to the Myrtiotissa turning, just over half a mile back from the beach. Parking is free but spots at a premium on the unsurfaced approach road. Corfu has multiple daily ferry crossings from Igoumenitsa and regular flights from Athens and the UK.

Source telegraph

Book now any hotel in Milan and get 10% discount

2010-06-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

The travelplanet24 offers you to book any hotel for any date in Milan, if you book it from 07/06 until 13/06 with 10% discount. Don't lose this offer!

Book here and get 10% discount:

How to Make Plane Travel Less Stressful

2010-06-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

In this fast pace society it seems like everything is so rushed. Everyone wants what they want now and if they do not get what they want the person on the other end is going to get an ear full.

In the same respect, when you don’t want things to move so fast they seem to stand at a complete hault altogether. This is the age we live in. With so many advances in technology you’d think the quality of life these days would move as smooth as a conveyor belt. As if we where indeed riding that conveyor belt so smoothly and efficiently to our various destinations, not a care nor worry, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.

One of the most stressful situations a traveler has to endure these days are airports. It’s always the journey not the arrival that seems to matter these days. The long check-in lines, the extra fees, and the even longer TSA line. It’s enough to make the calmest person loose their cool. However, if you’re proactive you can make your next travel experience seem like a piece of cake. With a little knowledge and preplanning, you’ll be able to avoid a lot of the travel blues we’ve become all too familiar with.

You may not be a morning person, but when it comes to domestic flights the fact is, the early bird gets the worm and the first flight of the day is least likely to be delayed. So, when planning a domestic trip aim for as early as you can. Nothing puts a damper on your traveling experience then an unexpected blunder, so plan to start your day early.

Believe it or not your attire is also key for smooth sailing. Take a mental note of things you may be wearing that will set of the metal detector. That means watches, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, etc. If you’re traveling to a warmer climate what you’re wearing may not be much of an issue. When you’re leaving a cold climate to go to a warm one or vice versa, this may be tricky. Whatever the case dress comfortably. As you go through TSA they will require you to take off jackets and sweaters as you walk through scanners, so to cut down time during this process try to dress lite. As for shoes, nothing slows you down then a pair of shoes with shoes strings. When traveling by plane wearing a pair of slip-ons will be your best bet.

Now that you have booked your ticket, it’s time to head to the airport. There’s a reason they tell you to arrive at least two hours early to the airport, you never know what you may have to encounter. Luckily, you’ve booked an early flight so the experience may not be so bad. When purchasing a ticket you can also opt to use internet confirmation so you can avoid slow ticket attendants and lines altogether. However, if you don’t, most airports will allow you to book yourself in which can also save you a lot of time. Do make sure to take advantage of this as it will save you from long lines as well. Then there’s the matter of luggage and it’s going to cost you to check it. It is a good idea to pack light if you can and if you’re really good at packing, having one bag that is a carry on would be a great advantage. Not only will you save money but you will avoid having to fight your way through the crowd at baggage claim.

As you make your way through the next process which would be the dreadful TSA line, make sure you have your ID and boarding pass readily available. This is not only a plus for you to be on your way, but a plus for many others filed right behind you. Thus, the end of the obstacle course and on to your destination.

e-gossiproom

Airline guide: baggage allowances and charges

2010-06-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

A guide to airline baggage allowance, rules and charges, featuring information on 35 of the world's biggest carriers.

UK AIRLINES

British Airways

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item; 23kg

Fee for excess baggage: £28 fee for additional bags booked online; £35 at the airport

Carry-on luggage: One item, must be able to lift into overhead locker unaided

Sporting equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies, limit 190cm x 75cm x 65cm

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies, limit 190cm x 75cm x 65cm

Bmi

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): Unlimited items; total weight limit 20kg

Fee for excess baggage: £11 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, must be able to lift into overhead locker unaided

Sporting equipment: £30, 20kg limit

Music equipment: Accepted as hold baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies, 20kg limit

Bmibaby

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): £12.99-£14.99 per bag each way, total weight limit 18kg

Fee for excess baggage: £12 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: £17.99, subject to space

Music equipment: £17.99, subject to space

easyJet

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): £9 per bag each way when paid online, £18 at the airport, total weight limit 20kg

Fee for excess baggage: £10 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, must be able to lift into overhead locker unaided

Sporting equipment: £18.50-£26, subject to space

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Flybe

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): £9.99 for first bag each way, £28 for second bag, 20kg limit per bag

Fee for excess baggage: no information available

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: £28, subject to space

Music equipment: £28m, subject to space

Jet2

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): £12.99 for one bag each way (22kg limit), £30.98 for two bags (30kg limit), £43.97 for three bags (30kg limit), when booked online

Fee for excess baggage: £10 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit, 56x45x25cm

Sporting equipment: £27.50, 20kg limit

Music equipment: £27.50 20kg limit

Monarch

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): £9.99 - £15.99 per bag each way, 20kg total limit

Fee for excess baggage: £7.50 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: up to £35, 13kg limit

Music equipment: Accepted as hold baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies, 10kg limit

Thomas Cook

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item; 15kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: up to £70 each way for up to 10kg extra

Carry-on luggage: One item, 5kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £60, subject to space

Music equipment: Up to £60, subject to space

Thomson

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item; 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: Up to £15 per kilo at the airport, 50 per cent cheaper online

Carry-on luggage: One item, 5kg limit

Sporting equipment: from £15, subject to space

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Virgin

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item; 23kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: £32 for additional bags booked online; £40 at the airport

Carry-on luggage: One item, less than 6kg

Sporting equipment: One piece at no extra cost

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

European airlines

Aer Lingus

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): Up to £12 per bag each way; 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: £6 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £34

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Air France

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 23kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: £48 for additional allowance, 20 per cent less online

Carry-on luggage: One item, 12kg limit

Sporting equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies

Alitalia

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 23kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: Up to £17 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 5kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £25.50

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Iberia

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 23kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: £51 up to 32kg, £51 for a second bag

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Lufthansa

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, plus one free ski bag, 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: Up to £10 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item; 8kg limit

Sporting equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies; 20kg limit

Music equipment: no information available

KLM

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 23kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: £9 per kg online, £13 per kg at the airport

Carry-on luggage: One item, 12kg limit

Sporting equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Music equipment: Free under checked baggage allowance otherwise extra bag charge applies.

Ryanair

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): Up to £20 per bag each way; 15kg limit, up to £40 for a second bag

Fee for excess baggage: £20 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 10kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £50; 20kg limit

Music equipment: Up to £50; 20kg limit

SAS

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: Up to £9.50 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 8kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £17

Music equipment: One free piece

Swiss

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: no information available

Carry-on luggage: One item, 8kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £30

Music equipment: Up to £30

TAP Portugal

Hold baggage (standard economy fare): One free item, 20kg limit

Fee for excess baggage: Up to £17 per kg

Carry-on luggage: One item, 8kg limit

Sporting equipment: Up to £42.50

Music equipment: Up to £42.50

Source telegraph

Best beaches of central Portugal: Praia de Mira

2010-06-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

This beach on Portugal's central coast is known as Praia de Mira and is known for its silky sand and striped fishermen’s chapel.

Why go?

Located half way between Figueira da Foz and Aveiro, the Praia de Mira is no secret among locals. The appealing village – with the beach on one side and a lagoon on the other – is more Bournemouth than Monaco in atmosphere. As for the beach itself, it is over 300m wide, infinitely long and with silk-like sand, dotted with brightly coloured Xavega (fishing) boats. There is also a striped fishermen’s chapel perched on the edge of the beach near the car park.

Who goes?

Anyone and everybody. The jet-set stay at the upmarket Mira Villas, 1km from Praia de Mira, while day visitors and holidaying families enjoy the lagoon-based activities – paddleboats for the wee ones and bike hire for the grown-ups.

What is there to do?

Swim, sunbathe and marvel at the photogenic fishing boats. You can rent a bike and head along the path around the lagoon or hire a paddleboat. The approach to Praia da Mira is through a pine forest; keen walkers can follow several trails.

Bars and bites

There are beach cafés, or you can treat yourself to a more upmarket experience and quality seafood dishes at Restaurante Patio (00351470 109) in the Mira Villas complex.

Getting there

Praia de Mira is around 30km south of Aveiro and 38km north of Figueira da Foz. Take the N109, a smaller inland road and at the village of Mira, head 7km west.

Tourist office: Praia de Mira: 00351 231 472 566; www.turismo-centro.pt; www.thecentroexperience.com

Source: telegraph

Best beaches on the Costa Blanca, Spain

2010-06-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

This gorgeous beach near Jávea, on Spain's Costa Blanca coast, is known as La Granadella and its seagrass beds make it perfect for snorkelling.

Why go?

For its sheer beauty, even though it is shingly rather than sandy. The horseshoe-shaped cove with Blue Flag status has calm, sapphire water and is flanked by a dense forest of emerald Aleppo pine trees. The only problem is that it is so gorgeous it gets very crowded.

Who goes?

Spanish and European families, both tourists and residents. There is a long-standing expat population in this area, from the UK, Germany and other northern European countries.

What is there to do?

Be sure to take a snorkel and mask. The seabed falls away quite steeply from the shore, but if you swim out for 65 feet or so the shingle is replaced by sand with posidonia seagrass beds. You can also walk through the woods behind the beach, breathing in the scent of the pine trees, or up to the castle or lookout point on the cliffs.

Bars and bites

There is a shack on the beach and a few restaurants in the row of buildings behind the bay. Sur (00 34 965 771612) has lots of outdoor tables on its various terraces and serves fabulous paellas.

Getting there

The beach is between Jávea and Moraira. Head towards the Cabo de la Nao headland and take the turning down the gorge through the pine forest to La Granadella. You need to get there pretty early in the morning to get a place in the car park and avoid being stuck in a jam.

Tourist information: 00 34 966 460605, www.xabia.org

Source: telegraph

News: British Airways Union Threatens Summer of Disruptive Strikes

2010-06-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

As British Airways (BA) entered the third day of a second five-day work stoppage by cabin flight attendants, Tony Woodley, joint general secretary for Unite, the union representing cabin crew, said that BA CEO Willie Walsh’s “hard-man stance on cabin crew travel will plunge the airline into a prolonged and totally needless summer of disruption.”

The current strike is scheduled to end Thursday, June 3, but cabin crew may vote to continue the strike next week.

Unite, the union representing cabin crew, said the strike thus far has cost BA 98 million euros, or about $142 million. BA is seeking to hire new cabin crew at lower pay than the current crew. Walsh and Woodley were scheduled to resume their talks Tuesday, June 1. BA has said that a large number of its cabin crew are reporting for work despite the strike. Because of that, BA said it has increased its flying schedule during Unite’s five-day strike (June 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9) due to the growing numbers of cabin crew who want to work as normal.

BA said it will increase its Heathrow long-haul schedule to more than 80 percent of flights (up from more than 70 percent this week and 60 percent in the first strike period). It will increase its Heathrow short-haul schedule to 60 percent of flights (up from more than 55 percent this week and more than 50 percent in the first strike period).

BA also said its flights from or to Gatwick, the U.K.’s second busiest airport, will remain unaffected by industrial action due to the levels of cabin crew ignoring Unite’s strike calls. Flights at London City airport also will operate as normal. During the World Cup, the airline said it will fly its full schedule (26 departures a week) to South Africa with thousands of fans due to fly out to Johannesburg and Cape Town from Heathrow Terminal 5 ahead of the World Cup kick off.

The airline also will continue to fly its entire Heathrow to New York JFK schedule and serve in excess of 85 percent of its long-haul destinations and 100 per cent of its short-haul network. BA said it was contacting customers throughout Tuesday to give them as much notice as possible about specific travel plans between June 5 and June 9.

Source: travelpulse

Copenhagen, Denmark: the perfect break

2010-06-02T04:36:00.000-07:00

Copenhagen has always been famous for its culture. Now it is home to the 'world's best restaurant' too.

Why go?

Copenhagen is on a roll. In a city more famous for art and design, food has suddenly come to the fore. Last month, Noma, one of its many top-end restaurants, was deemed "the best in the world". At the same time, the subtle and elegant paintings of the city's best loved artist, Christen Købke, have been given star billing in a major exhibition at the National Gallery in London, reminding us that Copenhagen's museums and galleries have some of the best art collections in Europe.

During May and June – while Denmark's capital is enjoying long, light spring evenings – is the time to check them out. For a really lively visit, make sure your trip coincides with the biggest festival of the year, the Whitsun Carnival, which takes place from May 21-23, with arts performances, parades and open-air music and markets.

There is just one warning note I should sound for potential visitors. If you are hoping to see Edvard Eriksen's bronze of the Little Mermaid, postpone your visit. She is on holiday, and has travelled to China to be part of the Danish pavilion at Expo 2010 in Shanghai until October 31. But, frankly, you won't be missing much. When she is at home, she looks rather lost on a rock on a windswept harbour, and is a disappointment to many. Copenhagen has far more interesting things to see and do.

Get there by...

Plane from several UK airports. SAS (www.flysas.com), British Airways (www.ba.com – though avoid proposed strikes covering the period May 18-June 9) and easyJet (www.easyjet.com) all have regular services, with return flights from about £100. For an overview of routes and fare comparisons, see www.skyscanner.net or www.travelsupermarket.com It's an easy 20-minute ride on the metro from the airport to the city centre.

Stay at...

The Admiral Hotel (Toldbodgade 24-28, 1253, 0045 3374 1414, www.admiralhotel.dk) – an inventive conversion of an 18th-century dockside warehouse, where double rooms cost from about £150 a night. If you are splashing out, the grandest option is the Hotel d'Angleterre on Kongens Nytrov (0045 3312 0095, www.remmen.dk), where elegantly furnished doubles cost from £235. The Carlton Hotel Guldsmeden (Vesterbrogade 66, 0045 3322 1500, www.hotelguldsmeden.dk), a few minutes' walk from the Tivoli Gardens, has clean, smart doubles from about £105.

Spend the morning...

Orientating yourself with a circular walk. Start in the central Kongens Nytorv and Nyhavn (canal-side) area, and stroll past the royal palaces of the Amalienborg, the star-shaped citadel (Kastellet), constructed in the 17th century. Return through the gardens of the Rosenborg area.

Have lunch at...

The Traktørstedet Cafe (0045 3315 7620), in the gardens of Rosenborg Castle (www.rosenborgslot.dk), near the city centre. The dining room is very compact, but there are shaded tables outside in summer. It serves a short menu of soups and Danish specialities in a convivial atmosphere.

Spend the afternoon...

On a cultural extravaganza. The National Gallery of Denmark, known locally as the Statens Museum for Kunst (www.smk.dk), has an excellent and representative art collection, including major works by Titian, Mantegna, Rubens and Matisse.

Even more enjoyable, in my view – because of the insight it gives into Danish Golden Age painting, the flourishing of a subtle, naturalistic style in the first half of the 19th century – is the Hirschsprungske Collection (www.hirschsprung.dk) On the edge of the gardens behind the National Gallery, the villa-style gallery, reminiscent of the Frick Collection in New York, shows the art collection of the 19th-century tobacco magnate Heinrich Hirschsprung. As well as many paintings from the Golden Age, there are key works from later in the century by Vilhelm Hammershøi.

Next on the list is the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek (www.glyptoteket.dk), which houses an outstanding collection of classical sculpture and paintings amassed by Carl Jacobsen of the Carlsberg brewing family.

And if all this culture is too much for you, there is always Tivoli (www.tivoli.dk), the amusement park that has been going strong since it first opened in 1843.

Have dinner at...

The best restaurant in the world (according to the 2010 San Pellegrino World's 50 Best Restaurants Awards). Noma (www.noma.dk) is run by 32-year-old Rene Redzepi, and last month it pushed El Bulli off its pedestal to take the top spot. The seven-course evening menu – which might include dried scallops and watercress; salsify and truffle; ox cheek and endive; and cooked barley and birch syrup – costs £120.

If that is too much, or you can't get a table, Copenhagen has a huge choice of high-class places to eat. Eleven other restaurants have Michelin stars this year (full list on the tourist board website below), one of which is The Paul (www.thepaul.dk) in the Tivoli gardens (menus from 700DK/£80). It prides itself on using culinary inspiration from all over the world.

Spend the evening...

Out and about. The long, light summer evenings lend a special atmosphere to Copenhagen nightlife. The hub of activity is the waterfront canal area of Nyhavn, and there are plenty of bars here. You might want to try some of the local beer, which has a growing reputation outside Copenhagen. It's called Carlsberg.

Alternatively, you could head for the opera house – Henning Larsen's landmark 2005 building on dockside opposite the Admiral Hotel (www.kglteater.dk) Or take in one of the many concerts and recitals held in the city's churches (some are free) – check with the local tourist office on arrival for a programme.

Spend the next day...

On a trip out of town. There is more than enough to keep you going in Copenhagen for several days, but one day trip definitely worth doing is the short train ride out to Fredericksborg Castle (www.frederiksborgmuseet.dk) This is Denmark's equivalent of Fontainebleau – a magnificent royal hunting lodge on the grandest of scales, first laid out in the 16th-century, then transformed in the 17th, and restored after a fire in the 19th. Among the highlights is the sumptuous chapel of 1608. There are also baroque and landscape gardens to explore.

Have lunch at Leonora, on the edge of the castle precincts, where salads based around, say prawns, smoked salmon, curried herring, meatballs and cheese cost from about £15.

Source telegraph