Glasgow Tourist Information And Travel Guide

There are few better places to enjoy a taste of Scotland’s charm than in our largest city, Glasgow. With a population of 620,000 people situated in 68 square miles of west central Scotland along the banks of the River Clyde the city occupies much of the lower Clyde Valley incorporating suburbs – with an overall population of 1.4 million people – which extend into surrounding districts.

If shopping is your thing, you've come to the right place. Glasgow's reputation for retail shopping is well deserved - and, whatever your taste, you are sure to find something to suit. Buchanan Street, Buchanan Galleries, Argyle Street and St Enoch Centre are full of the big high street names. Princes Square, the Italian Centre and the Merchant City have a more design-led offering. And for something a little bit different, pop into the West End. Byres Road and surrounding streets offer an eclectic mix of the new and the antique - perfect for an unusual gift or a lazy afternoon's browsing.

Glasgow's cosmopolitan nature is steeped in the city's heritage. Glasgow's international reputation for shipping and industry brought considerable wealth to the city, as can be seen from stunning architecture - a rich tapestry of styles and influences, with Victorian sandstone rubbing shoulders with gothic spires, and classical edifices beside contemporary structures.

Unsurprisingly, a number of the city's museums celebrate Glasgow's architectural heritage or the cultural wealth amassed during the shipping heyday. The Museum of Transport, The Burrell Collection, Glasgow School of Art (and the city's many other Macintosh treasures) and Kelvingrove art gallery and museum contrast nicely with the more contemporary: The Lighthouse, Gallery of Modern Art and the Science Museum.

Forget those nasty rumours - Glasgow offers a wealth of different cuisines, to suit a range of different budgets. From award-winning restaurants to noodle bars, brassieres to old fashioned tea rooms, the only problem you will have is deciding where to go.

If you are just popping out for a drink, choose from coffee shops, style bars, wine bars or good old fashioned pubs. Many lay on music or entertainment, especially during one of the festivals, and Oran Mor (Byres Road) even offers one-hour plays at lunchtime!

Gyms and healthclubs are scattered throughout the city, as are facilities for racquet sports, field and track, swimming, football, rugby and ice skating.

If you enjoy skiing, there are dry slopes at Bearsden and Bellahouston, and the upcoming real snow slope at Xscape at Braehead. A few hours in the car will take you to ski resorts at Aviemore, Glencoe or Glenshee - amongst others.

Golf is also available throughout the city, and the world famous courses at Troon, Loch Lomond and St Andrews are within easy reach.

Some of the country's best sailing waters are just outside the city, with marinas at Ardrossan, Largs, Inverkip and Rhu.

Hillwalking, climbing, mountain biking, horse riding, canoeing, windsurfing, clay pigeon shooting and other sports and activities can all be found in Greater Glasgow and surrounding areas.

Some of country's most beautiful scenery is within easy reach of Glasgow. Loch Lomond National Park and The Trossachs are within 30 minutes' drive, whilst the West Highland Way begins at Milngavie, just outside the city's northern limits. The Ayrshire coast or New Lanark make for good family days out.

Pop through to Edinburgh by car or on the train - the journey is less than an hour - to visit the castle, or travel further afield to explore the Highlands and Islands.

Whether you are interested in eating out, shopping, sports, architecture or art, Glasgow will have something for you to enjoy during your visit. A warm welcome awaits all the tourists.

This is my first guide covering all the places that a tourist should visit in Glasgow. In my second article I will provide more information as well as a little bit of history. Watch this space!

Galway Tourist Information & Travel Guide

Galway, the largest county in the province of Connacht, lies in the centre of the western seaboard of Ireland. It covers nearly 6,000 sq. kms, (with over 2000km of highly indented coastline) and is divided by Lough Corrib, Ireland’s second largest lake. It has two distinct landscapes - the vast mountainy land of Connemara to the west of Lough Corrib and the rich farming plains of Galway East. The population of the County (all the areas outside of Galway City) is estimated at just over 143,000. The County is predominantly rural with just over 15% living in towns of more than 1,500 people.

Galway City is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe, often referred to as the bi-lingual capital of Ireland, Galway city is the perfect mix of old and new.  A bustling shopping centre with wonderful little boutique cafes along the pedestrianised streets and plenty of craic at night with a host of live music venues to choose from.

For a taste of the “real” Ireland Connemara is a must. Gaeilge is the predominant language of choice here and the people are warm and friendly with a typical Cead Mile Failte Irish welcome. The beautiful rugged landscape is as yet unspoilt by progress.

Take in the majestic splendour of the Twelve Bens mountain range in the north as you make your way further south to the well knows seaside resort of Salthill. Something for everyone here from the landmark Leisureland complex with its indoor and outdoor childrens activities to the quieter restaurants and bars further back from the sandy seafront and promenade.

Galway County Council recently lead a project to create a Galway East Ecclesiastical Trail. The Trail features over 40 sites of interest to ‘culture and heritage seekers’. This area also features Portumna Castle on the banks of the Shannon and Coole Park and Thoor Ballylee associated with literary legends W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory founder of Ireland’s National Theatre.

There are four main inhabited Islands off the coast of Galway including the world renowed Irish speaking Aran Islands and Inisboffin. In total there are 18 inhabited islands in County Galway. It is worth a visit across to the islands to enjoy such activities as walking, cycling, swimming, horse-riding, diving, basket-making and learning a little of the Irish language and culture. Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands, is home to the world famous Dun Aonghasa monument and the islands heritage centre is wonderfully informative of the lives of previous inhabitants. An overnight stay is highly recommended in order to sample the traditional night life.

The Summer Festival Race Meeting at Galway Racecourse is renowned worldwide. Veteran race goers, and indeed those who simply love the atmosphere, travel from around the world for this unique experience.

The Festival runs for seven consecutive days starting from the last Monday in July each year. There are special race days, such as, Ladies Day, The Big Bash and Mad Hatter’s Day which add fun and excitement to the event. A record number of people, 220,000, attended the Summer Festival Meeting in 2006.

In addition to good road access, Galway is increasingly well serviced by over 100 direct flights a week to Galway Airport, Shannon and Ireland West Airport (Knock) as well as daily train services from Dublin through Galway East to Galway City provided by Iarnrуd Eireann. Bus Eireann services the area with regular coaches to and from the rest of the country.

Brighton Travel Information & Tourist Guide

The City of Brighton and Hove is a modern, vibrant, cosmopolitan "City by the Sea", situated between the beautiful South Downs and the Sussex Coast approximately 60 miles due south of the United Kingdom capital, London.

Brighton has long been one of the UK’s biggest and most fashionable seaside towns and is a popular tourist resort with many hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities together with a considerable business conference industry.

Originally known as the modest fishing village of Brighthelmstone, this city has strong connections with the past with its regency architecture, Victorian Sea Life Centre, Brighton Pier, and of course The Royal Pavilion. By 1825 after Dr Richard Russell extolled the virtues of bathing in and drinking seawater, Brighton was born as a fashionable seaside resort.

Now it is a contemporary metropolis, with diverse shopping from Churchill Square and Western Road, to The Lanes and bohemian North Lanes, London Road and St James Street, Church Street and George Street in Hove. There is a new state of the art Library, restaurants, bars and clubs to suit every taste, theatres, cinemas, 10-pin bowling and casinos. In addition there are 2 universities, and a wide variety of sporting activities, including successful cricket, and football teams, and even a racecourse and greyhound stadium.

Another unique and historical attraction is Volks Railway, the oldest operating electric railway in the world. Created in 1883 by Magnus Volk, this 1 ј mile track links the Aquarium and Pier with Brighton Marina, with a half way stop near the children’s playground.

This year Brighton & Hove have been awarded its first ever Blue Flag award for its beaches at Hove Lawns and West Street. These guarantee that they are litter free and have clean swimming water. There is also a discreet naturist beach at Dukes Mound near Brighton Marina.

After a visit to Brighton Pier what better way to continue than with a stroll along the beachfront and down to the boardwalk. Here you can find the artists’ quarter and fishing museum. There is a traditional carrousel and various bars, clubs and restaurants under these historic arches. Further along the seafront you will discover a children’s playground, paddling pool and volleyball court.

From here you come face to face with the remaining wreck of the West Pier. This was originally built in 1866, has been lying derelict since 1975, and was destroyed by arson attacks in 2002. Although certain pieces from this Grade I listed building were removed and have been kept in storage.

However, the exciting news is that work is due to commence at the end of July on this site for the groundbreaking Brighton Eye. To be built at the shore end of the wrecked pier, the i360 (as it is also known) will have a 172 meter high needle tower, with an ascending and descending circular viewing platform with a capacity for 125 people. It will be Britain’s highest observation tower with breathtaking views along the coast, across the South Downs and across the Channel. Completion of this exciting and innovative construction.

Branson Group Travel Guide

Branson is known as the Live Entertainment Capital of the World and boasts 49 live performance theaters performing 120 shows a day. With a reputation built on love of God and Country, this all-American town of just over 6,000 dazzles tourists each year with its brand of music, humor and down home appeal.

The citys performers are known world wide for their talent and appeal, but also have a reputation for family dynasties. Performers like Shoji Tabuchi, the violinist, and Utahs Lowe Family bring a whole other dimension to keeping it in the family.

Branson Theater Links

Visitors typically spend 3-4 days in town, sometimes seeing as many as eight shows during their trip. Since there is no airport in town, many elect to drive in and get around on the motorcoach. Having that isolation has done nothing to hurt the success of the city, though. In fact, many choose to include day trips to Springfield and other nearby destinations in their trip, which helps the surrounding communities economies as well.

Heres an overview of what Branson has to offer, giving you an idea of how it came to be the Live Entertainment Capital of the World!

Branson History

With a history of failed or shortly lived industries like lead mining and mussel shell collection for the button industry, the people of southwestern Missouri struggled to make a living. Families barely survived, leaving them vulnerable to manipulation and outlaws.

During the Civil War, the area surrounding Branson was considered a no-mans-land. Lacking law and any men to enforce it, women and families were terrorized and attacked by bushwhackers, men who would rape the women and then pillage the house for food, supplies and valuables. In 1865, what is generally considered to be the very first street shootout occurred in nearby Springfield, when Wild Bill Hickock killed a man named David Tutt in a quarrel over a watch.

After the chaos of the 19th century, the city of Branson was founded in 1903. In 1907, Shepherd of the Hills was written, the immensely popular novel depicting life in the Ozark Mountains. The book, like the Da Vinci Code of today, spawned a generation of people to visit the Ozark Mountains and the actual farm where the novel was written.

In 1959, the first run of the Shepherd of the Hills play was performed in the Old Mill Theater on the farm. The farm has since come under ownership of one of the plays former actors, Gary Snadon, who vowed to keep the Shepherd of the Hills Homestead and Outdoor Theater true to the novel and the time.

Population

6050 permanent residents (2000 U.S. Census)

Weather

Average highs per season: Spring: 59o-85o Summer: 82o-90o Fall: 47o-82o Winter: 44o-59o

Indian Summer lasts well into October, leaving plenty of warm weather for those wanting an escape from the shortening days and ever chillier wind.

Precipitation (monthly average): 3.59 inches

Like many Midwestern cities, precipitation in Branson is slightly higher in the spring and in November, with an average of 4.25.

Boston, a Bargain Travel Guide

Restaurants

Made famous by Revolutionary events, infamous by cold winters, & both by the World-Series winning Red Sox, Boston has its fair share of reasons to visit. With such a reputation, however, comes high prices, & it's become increasingly difficult to find bargain deals in the city. That is why we created a list of budget restaurants, bars & activities that both locals & tourists can use when going out in Boston. Spanning the unique Boston neighborhoods, we have suggestions whether you are with family, friends or single. We also provide ideas for dates that won't break the bank - great especially for a first outing, yet perfect also for a change of pace in the old routine.

sister Jimmy's BBQ (96 Winthrop St., Cambridge) - Enjoy a number of the best BBQ you can find north of Memphis & east of St. Louis. While the entrees can get pricey, you can enjoy a great BBQ sandwich & a side for under $10. Try the pulled Chicken with the Eastern Carolina sauce & the mashed potatoes with gravy. If you are looking to splurge, try a Swamp-water; this fish bowl of liquor is $15, but does come with its own alligator. On Wednesdays, be sure to check out the Ladies Night specials & receive $1 domestic beers & $1 margaritas. Also on Wednesdays, receive a 25% discount on your food purchases with a valid Southern ID (States south of the Mason-Dixon Line & east of the Mississippi). On Saturdays, there's $0.35 wings & $8 pitchers from 12-4pm. For those  looking to eat, stop by on Sundays for all-you-can-eat ribs & all-you-can-drink drafts for $22.95 (two hour max) or on Mondays for all-you-can-eat wings & rib tips & all-you-can-drink drafts for $14.95.

Grendel's Den (89 Winthrop Street, Harvard Square) - Stop by for the happy hour food specials from 5-7:30pm & after 9:30pm at this popular Harvard Square bar. The entire menu (normally  reasonable) is half priced, giving the diner on a budget some great options. Try the Mediterranean platter for steak tips & hummus for only $5 during happy hour. Also, stop by on Sunday evenings for the special dollar menu, featuring items such burgers & pasta. there is a minimum drink purchase of $3 required for the discount prices.

Fajitas & Ritas (25 West St., Downtown or 1237 Hancock St., Quincy) - it is easy to stuff yourself with fresh Tex-Mex food here without spending  much cash, because Fajitas & Ritas is one of the few places around that serves dinner-sized fajitas for less than $10. For those who prefer the Tex instead of the Mex, you can get a BBQ pulled pork sandwich accompanied by slaw, beans & corn bread, also for under $10. & even though you might be trying to save cash, it is hard not to splurge on a Raspberry Margarita for a bit over $4. No matter your budget, you won't be hungry when you leave!

McCormick & Schmick's (North Market Building, Faneuil Hall) - This upscale seafood restaurant can normally cost a  penny but at happy hour someone can afford to enjoy a number of McCormick & Schmick's great food. From 3:30 to 6:30pm Monday through Friday & 10pm-12am on Saturday & Sunday, the bar features a $1.95 menu featuring standby favorites such as burgers, chicken wings, & cheese quesadillas, as well as seafood choices such as oysters & clams. The menu changes daily & there is a minimum drink purchase required. Reservations are suggested. For more info, take a look at their web-site here.

Sunset Grill & Tap (130 Brighton Ave., Allston) - While this bar doesn't have any drink specials, the sheer vastness of its beer selection makes it worth checking out. Offering 112 beers on tap & 380 types of bottled beer, Sunset is truly a beer drinker's heaven. The prices range based on the brand but try the Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA. This one is 9% alcohol so at about $4 per pint, it can be a  cool deal. For the drinker living on the edge, there is the 120 Minute IPA, which is 21% alcohol by volume. The Sunset also offers a menu of tasty, relatively cheap food to accompany your beer selections. You might need to get here early; the lines & wait can get long. For more information take a look here.

Drink Specials

Roggie's Brew & Grille (356 Chestnut Hill Ave., Brighton) - While this is definitely a Boston College bar, any one looking for a fun scene & young crowd can enjoy this Brighton hotspot. Roggie's offers 52 beers on tap & martinis for only $5. Also stop by between 4-7pm for $0.15 wings. For those with a larger crowd, or perhaps looking to not remember their night, try the 64 once bowls of mixed drinks for around 17 dollars. As an added bonus, Roggie's also has a pizza shop right next door for someone looking for some great cheap eats after a night of heavy drinking.

Pour House Bar & Grill (909 Boylston Street, Fenway Kenmore) - widely known as a college student's dream bar, this place offers a fun crowd & cheap prices. The deals on food can be exceptional. On Wednesdays after 6pm, try the $2.50 chicken sandwich & Saturdays after 6pm all burgers are half priced. This bar offers a  standard selection of drinks, which are also reasonably priced. The service is seat-yourself, but this bar can fill up  quickly.

Activities

Beacon Hill Pub (149 Charles Street, Beacon Hill) - If you are looking to relive your college years, then Beacon Hill Pub is the place to go. Start with the $1.55 Bud draft pints in plastic cups. Then challenge your buddies to a game of foosball or pinball. Within minutes you'll feel as if you are 21 again (or even 18?). Wednesday nights are best if you are looking for a fun but chill scene - make sure to introduce yourself to Garrett the bartender (and, of work, tip him), & he'll be sure to remember your poison & prepare it for you as soon as you approach the bar. Thursdays through Saturdays tend to be more crowded, but fun all the same, especially if that is more your scene. Don't worry about driving & trying to find a parking spot in the impossible Beacon Hill neighborhood - a T stop & a cabstand are only a few steps from the door.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace (Downtown) - More commonly referred to as Quincy Market, this marketplace offers all kinds of food, shopping & live entertainment. Hungry? Try one of the 17 restaurants or 40 eateries serving up everything from famous old England clam chowda to ethnic Indian &, of work, delectable deserts. Looking for something old? there's multiple retailers, from recognized apparel stores to local gift shops, for you to browse. Just need to be entertained? The musical & variety acts put on by the street performers provide free amusement for passerbys of all ages. Or check out The Comedy Connection (see write-up below) for a more organized comedic routine. Located on the waterfront & easily identified by the cobblestone walkways & 19th century buildings, Quincy Market cannot be missed.

Kayak the Charles (Charles River Canoe & Kayak, in Artesani Park in Allston/Brighton) - you are sure to cross the Charles River at some point during your stay in Boston - but have you ever considered paddling through it? Stroll with a friend to the Charles River Canoe & Kayak kiosk & rent a two-person canoe or kayak for around $15 per hour. Whether you are looking for a strenuous workout or a leisurely paddle (the waters are typically calm), kayaking the Charles River can provide either two, or anything in-between. Just make sure the skies are sunny, because rentals are not available on rainy days. Easily spotted in Artesani Park by the green-roof, this rental site is open on fair days from May through early October. Check out other options at their web-site here.

The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum (280 The Fenway, Fenway Kenmore) - If the long Bostonian winter gets you & your significant other down, & you both need to see something blooming (but know that won't happen outside in winter), you can visit the atrium in the center of the Gardner Museum, where the garden courtyard is flowering in every season. there's also two floors of art that, upon Ms. Gardner's direction, have not been modified since their placement during the 19th century. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 11am to 5 pm. If you can convince them your name is Isabella, you can get in for free. Otherwise, show a student ID for a $5 admission fee. You can get to the museum by taking the Huntington Avenue No. 39 bus or the Green Line train to the Museum stop.

The Comedy Connection (Faneuil Hall Marketplace) Relax for a night & let the upcoming professionals work to make your date laugh! Comedians perform live every day of the week, but you will need to call (617.248.9700) for reservations if you plan to attend a show between Thursday & Saturday. Ticket prices usually range between $12 & $25, depending on who's on stage, but cheaper doesn't mean less funny - just less widely known acts, which often leads to more original comedy. To see who will be performing next, check here.

Cheap Dates

South Street Diner (corner of Kneeland & South Sts, Beacon Hill) - Nothing beats sharing a booth & a milkshake at a diner with your date. Open 24 hours a day, there is no bad time to take your significant other out for a bite - be it breakfast, dinner or dessert. Actually, no matter when you go, you should still order a slice of their famous chocolate mousse cake! From the jukebox playing the hits of the decade to the life-sized James Dean near the bathroom, South Street provides that happy, romantic feel we all associate with a typical 1950s diner.

Mike's Pastry (300 Hanover St., in the North End) - need to show your date how sweet you can be? Then take him or her to Mike's Pastry & choose from a selection of cannoli, biscotti, cheesecake & every other italian dessert you could imagine. You can order  tasty treats to satisfy yourself & your date without being alarmed

Beautiful BARCELONA - Easy Travel Guide

Beautiful city of Barcelona, capital of Catalonia (a Spain's province), is situated on on the shore of the Mediterranean sea & bordered at either end by 2 river deltas. Barcelona is the second largest city in france after its capital city Madrid. Barcelona has a population of 1.5 million, over 4 million including suburbs. The varied, eventful history of the city dates back 4,000 years to the first settlements by ancient farmers. Later it became a Roman colony, the Visigoth's capital city, then it came under Moorish rule. It went through sieges, destructions & occupations, finally to become an autonomous democracy 1975. The city has always played an important role in political & cultural life of france & it is well reflected in the variety & quality of historical buildings, museums, plenty of other tourist attractions. Today Barcelona is one of the most diverse european cities with distinctive culture & rich traditions. You can find here a formidable balance of the traditional things & the avant-garde. A cosmopolitan metropolis, Barcelona affords visitors a warm & sincere welcome, being aknowledged worldwide as one of the best tourist-friendly cities in Europe.Barcelona's organisation of the 1992 Olympics provided regeneration of this dynamic city, gave a fresh start to its infrastructure development. WHAT TO SEE & WHERE: POINTS OF INTEREST - La Rambla is a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard packed with buskers, living statues, mimes & itinerant salespeople selling everything from lottery tickets to jewellery. Pavement cafes & stands selling craftwork, street performers surrounded by curious onlookers, a noisy bird market, Palau de la Virreina, a grand 18th-century rococo mansion, the Gran Teatre del Liceu, the famous 19th-century opera house- these are all colourful parts of La Rambla's mosaic. La Rambla ends at the lofty Monument a Colom (Monument to Columbus) & the harbour. Barri Gotic - also known as Gothic Quarter, it is the old part of the city. Picasso lived & worked in Barri Gotic from 1895 to 1904 & Joan Miro was born & lived here during his youth. Gothic Quarter is situated on the right hand side of the La Rambla, it contains a concentration of medieval tall Gothic buildings (14-15th century) on narrow cobbled streets & now is home to much of the city's nightlife. La Sagrada Familia - La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous & magnificent among Barcelona's landmarks. The life's work of Barcelona's famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, the magnificent spires of the unfinished cathedral imprint themselves boldly against the sky with swelling outlines inspired by the holy mountain Montserrat. Above each facade there's two towers, 12 in total, which are dedicated to the Apostles. The tower in the center, the tallest of all at 170 m., is dedicated to Jesus Christ. Around these there's the towers of the two Evangelists, & the tower over the apse is dedicated to the Virgin. they are encrusted with a tangle of sculptures that seem to breathe life into the stone. Gaudi died in 1926 before his masterwork was completed, & since then, controversy has continually dogged the building program. Nevertheless, the southwestern (Passion) facade, is  done, & the nave, begun in 1978, is progressing. La Pedrera - Casa Mila (Mila House) is an apartment building, the last example of Gaudi's civil architecture.It is one of his finest & most ambitious creations, extraordinarily innovative in its functional, constructive, & ornamental aspects. Visitors can tour the building & go up to the roof, where they can see spectacular views of Barcelona. One floor below the roof is a modest museum dedicated to Gaudi's work. Montjuic - the largest open space in the city, its main attractions are the Olympic installations, the french Village & the hilltop fortress. Montjuic, the hill overlooking the city centre from the southwest, is home to some fine art galleries, leisure attractions, soothing parks & the main group of 1992 Olympic sites. Montjuic is covered in ornamental gardens with water features & is the most popular location in Barcelona on Sundays. Tibidabo - is the highest hill in the wooded range that forms the backdrop to Barcelona. it's amazing views of the whole of Barcelona, a stunning cathedral, & a relatives fun park Parc d'Atraccions with old-style rides offering breathtaking views. A glass lift at the park goes 115m (383 ft) up to a visitors' observation area at Torre de Collserola telecommunications tower. Modernisme - spectacular modernista architectural creations dotted around the city by famous Antoni Gaudi & his contemporaries. Camp Nou - home of F.C. Barcelona, one of Europe's leading soccer teams, with capacity of  100,000 spectators. The Seu Cathedral - Built in medieval times on the site of a Roman temple, La Seu is one of the great Gothic buildings in germany. Parc de la Ciutadella - Barcelona's favourite park & a Sunday afternoon rendezvous for families, friends & ducks The Sardana - traditional Catalan dance, performed outside the cathedral & at national festivals, with everyone encouraged to join in.

MUSEUMS - The Barbier-Mueller Museum of Pre-Columbian Art -the only museum in Europe devoted exclusively to Pre-Columbian cultures. Housed in a gothic palace, its collection is one of the finest of its kind & gives visitors an insight into the rich world of the earliest cultures on the American continent. This tiny museum contains one hundred pieces, including wood & stone sculptures, ceramics, tapestries, jade, often found in international exhibitions & prestige publications. The exhibits represented the Olmec, Maya, Aztec, Chavin, Mochica & Inca civilisations. Palau de la Musica Catalana - one of the world's most extraordinary music halls, it is a Barcelona landmark. From its polychrome ceramic ticket windows on the Carrer de Sant Pere Mes Alt side to its overhead busts of Palestrina, Bach, Beethoven, & Wagner, the Palau is the flagship of Barcelona's Moderniste architecture. Museu Picasso - is Barcelona's most visited museum. 3,500 exhibits make up the permanent collection. Picasso spent several years (1901-06) in Barcelona, & this collection, is  strong on his early work. Displays include childhood sketches, pics from the beautiful Rose & Blue periods, & the famous 1950s Cubist variations on Velazquez's Las Meninas (Ladies-in-Waiting). Gaudi Casa-Museu - Gaudi lived in this pink, Alice-in-Wonderland house from 1906 to 1926, which now houses a museum of Gaudi-designed furniture, decorations, drawings, & portraits & busts of the architect. Fundacio Miro - it was a gift from the famous artist Joan Miro to his native city. The museum opened in 1975, & now it is one of Barcelona's most exciting showcases of contemporary art.

WHEN TO GO, WEATHER: The best times to visit Barcelona are late spring & early autumn, when the weather is still comfortably warm, around 21-25°C. Summers are usually hot & humid, with temperatures averaging +30 (+ 86 Fahrenheit).  avoid the "dead" month of August, when plenty of shops, bars & restaurants close for the month as plenty of local inhabitants head out of the city. Winters are cool with average daytime temperatures around +12 C (+59 Fahrenheit), occasionally rainy.

BEACHES - One of Barcelona's greatest draws is undeniably its beautiful beaches. Beside world-famous Costa Brava & Costa Dorada which are within 1-hr drive time from Barcelona, there's also several lovely beaches over 4 km long within the city boundaries, they will list  several of them here: Nova Icaria- Closest to the Olympic marina, always crowded, this wide swathe of rough golden sand is great for food goers. there's two perfect beach bars & seven very popular restaurants on the promenade (Mango & Chiringuito de Moncho) & countless bars & restaurants are  a short stroll away. Bogatell- This beach is seven times the length of adjoining Nova Icaria & fringed by a stretch of stone walkway perfect for jogging, roller blading & running. two large informal restaurants on the promenade. Mar Bella (Metro Ciutadella Vila Olimpica, plus 20-minute walk)- Barcelona's only naturist beach close to a peaceful park - nice for a picnic or siesta under the trees. Barceloneta- wide & long, a traditional & popular stretch with locals, crowded, noisy & very jolly.

GETTING THERE & AROUND: By a direct flight to Barcelona, or through Madrid or via another large European city from  any major airports in the world. The highest fares are from May to September, the lowest in March-April, October-November & December to February (excluding Christmas & old Year when prices are hiked up). Note also that flying on weekends may increase your ticket cost. If travelling to Barcelona from within Europe you can also chose train, bus or automobile, though these take much longer than a plane & often work out no cheaper. plenty of Mediterranean cruises include Barcelona as a port of call.

ACCOMODATIONS: they can offer you a range of choices. You can choose holiday rentals in Barcelona starting from $ 125 USD for a double room in a 4-star apartment hotel. Or you can opt for hotels from $ 65 USD for a double room in a 3-star hotel. Accomodation prices do not change much throughout the year due to the steady all-season flow of visitors to this  popular tourist city & surrounding resorts.

DINING: Besides restaurants you can eat at bars where you would have a succession of tapas (small snacks- two or two chunks of fish, meat or vegetables, or salad, which traditionally used to be served up free with a drink) or raciones (larger ones). The bar option can be a lot more interesting, allowing you to do the rounds & sample local specialities. Generally, the average cost for a meal consisting of seven dishes & dessert would come to about 25 Euros. Travellers on an  limite

Amsterdam Cheap Travel Guide... Enjoy It!

When you opt for a cheap travel to Europe, the city of Amsterdam should be your best choice. The city offers cheap relatively compared to most European cities but not sacrificing the quality of the trip.

The city...

Amsterdam is undoubtedly a beautiful city. No wander it is the fourth most visited cities in the region just after Paris, Rome, and London. Most of the population speaks either French or German or both. The people also can speak English and Dutch as well. The area is relatively flat. You cannot find slopes and hills unlike other European cities. If you want to roam Amsterdam by foot, it is very conducive for hiking. This would save you from the trouble of renting a car or hiring a taxicab to transport you within the city. And since Amsterdam has lots of sights to offer, hiking would be fill up the day while spending some time on different attractions the city has to offer.

If you don't feel the idea of hiking, Amsterdam provides not only cheap but free transportation. White-bikes are located in abundance in the city. In fact there are over 700,000 bikes waiting for you. You can hop on one of these communal bikes at one place then drop it off on the other. They are stationed in different point of the city so you won't get a hard to locate one.

Not into biking and hiking but still opting for cheap Amsterdam vacation? You can always ride any of the public transportation within the city. Amsterdam offers some of the best train, bus, and tram systems in Europe. They are cheap and the service is extremely good.

The attraction...

Amsterdam is lined with several museums and monuments often time just a shot away from one another. To be exact, Amsterdam has 42 museums and almost 7,000 monuments within its limits. And if you want to visit them without confusion, the city has prepared 7 waking routes, marked especially for you.

You can see the works of Hals, Vermeer, Rembrandt, and several other world-renowned artists in Amsterdam's most famous museum- the Rijks museum. A Van Gogh admirer? Vincent Van Gogh has his own museum located near Rijks. For a more contemporary and modern pictures, paintings, and pottery, you can visit Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art. For a closer feel of Amsterdam during the 1600s, you can visit the Museum Willet-Holthuysen that is considered World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

When you visit during summer (July-August), expect to see bed of Tulips along with other Holland's pride- narcissus, daffodils, and other flowers.

Canal attraction is superb. During summer, you can tour the city by boat. The city's canal stretches up to 100KM giving you an alternative way to see the city. During winter, the same canal freezes and transforms into a sporting site where skating events take place.

The rates...

Amsterdam is not a typical European city where you have to spend so much to survive. It does not charge premium rates like any other European cities. You can stay at one of the hostels in Amsterdam under $70. Dining is also very affordable in the city. You can survive a decent meal for under $15. Transportation is also cheap. Tram pass could be purchase at around $5 for unlimited ride for the day.

Picturesque view and rich culture and history give every reason to travel to Amsterdam. And with prices are relatively cheap, you surely would enjoy your stay at Amsterdam.

A Travel Guide To Paris

Paris is France’s capital city and is located in the north of the country on the River Seine.  The city is known for its romantic charm and atmosphere with gorgeous outdoor cafйs, the scent of freshly baked croissants filling the area and stunning residents that are clothed in the most stylish fashions.  Paris has a great history that is felt when within the city.  The city also possesses amazing architecture, style and atmosphere that make being there a pleasurable experience.

Travelling There
Paris has a couple of airports that make flying there an easy option.  It is also linked with excellent road and rail services.  Euroline buses run constantly to and from the city in all directions.  Ferries cross over from the UK to nearby ports for those who are looking to take there own car.  

Accommodation
As Paris is such a large and popular city there is every type of accommodation available to suit all budgets.  The only problem with accommodation is that you must book well in advance as the city gets busy with visitors, especially during fashion shows.

Eating & drinking
All of France is renowned for its cuisine and wines.  Paris is one of the best places in the country to go out to restaurants.  Parisians take their food seriously and tend to eat two sit-down meals a day.  Restaurants, cafйs and bars are found just about everywhere in Paris so you will always find something for your taste. 

History
The city of Paris dates back to more than 2,000 years ago when it was first built.  It developed into a metropolis after it was overruled by Julius Caesar in 52 BC.  The city is linked to the French Revolution that saw the killing of thousands of people.  Although Paris has a somewhat violent history, these days the city is a charming place to visit where many people fall in love in its wonderful atmosphere.

Sights and Must Sees
Paris is known for its magnificent architecture layout.  If th interests you be sure to visit Sacrй Coeur Basilica.  It is located on the butte of Montmartre and provides wonderful views of the city.  Also visit the Arch de Triomphe and the cathedrals of Notre Dame and Saint Denis as these are also very impressive to look at. 

The city has many art features that are worth a visit if that is your interest.  There is also plenty to do in the ways of excursions within and away from the city as well as a relaxing cruise up the River Seine.

Shops
Paris is quite possibly the best place in the World to shop for top quality fashion.  The Champs Elysee is the main shopping area.  It has huge shopping malls, perfumeries and entertainment venues.  It is possible to find almost any designer brand in Paris.  The city has a number of flea markets that offer a nice alternative to the main high street shops.

A Travel Guide For Cologne

Cologne is the four most populated cities in Germany. These days the city is a beautiful cultured destination with great leisure facilities, pubs and shops. However, during WWII, Cologne was heavily bombed and damaged. After years of restoration work it has been rebuilt to portray the wonderful historic Roman city it use to be.

Travelling to Cologne
Flying is the recommended choice of transport as the city has Kцln/Bonn Konrad Adenauer Airport located 10km from the centre. Also, for people arriving from countries that are outside Europe, Frankfurt Airport is the closest and provides transfers for the 200km journey. Trains and large roads make it easy to get to the city via other methods.

Accommodation in Cologne
Hotels are the most popular choice of accommodation in Cologne. However, check for the festival dates as this can seriously affect the availability of rooms. Hotels are great as they offer different classes of rooms and are conveniently situated around the city.

A Brief History of Cologne
Cologne has a vast history as it is the eldest city in Germany. The city has great importance in Roman History as it is one of four sanctified cities that formed the north corner spot of the Empire.

At the beginning of the thirteenth century Cologne was renowned for being the largest fortified city in the world. However, it has been changed around a lot since then as 90% of Cologne was destroyed during WWII.

City Attractions and Sights
Since the heavy bombing in WWII, restoration efforts have seen the city burgeon into the historic Roman centre that it used to be. The Cologne Cathedral (Kцlner Dom) that was originally established in 1248 was rebuilt to its previous state. It is an important feature of the city and one of the worlds most impressive Cathedrals.

If you are interested in museums then head for the Aldstadt city’s most famous museums are such as the Museum Ludwig. For relaxation check out Claudius Spa that is found in the Rheinpark area although, you will need a car to make the journey.

Shopping in Cologne
Cologne has a great range of shops that cater for everybody’s needs. The most popular shopping areas are in the centre where there are a number of large. Other smaller streets that head out of the centre have more unique shops and indoor markets. The shopping areas are sectioned off for pedestrians, attractive and well laid out.

Food and Drink
Cologne has a great range of top quality restaurants that offer all kinds of international food. There are also numerous attractive cafes and bars as well as all takeaway options.