Discover the Beauty of Bulgaria: Your Ultimate Travel Guide 10 Feb 2023, 5:51 pm

Bulgaria is a stunning country in Southeast Europe that is still relatively unknown to many travelers. With its rich history and culture, stunning landscapes, and fantastic food, Bulgaria is an excellent destination for a unique and memorable vacation. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Bulgaria.

“Explore the History and Culture of Bulgaria”

Bulgaria has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. From ancient Thracian settlements to Ottoman rule, Bulgaria has a rich cultural heritage that is evident in its many museums, churches, and monuments.

One of the most important cultural destinations in Bulgaria is the city of Plovdiv. This ancient city, which is over 6,000 years old, is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the country, including an amphitheater, stadium, and aqueduct.

Another must-visit cultural destination is the Rila Monastery, which is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Bulgaria. This stunning complex, which was founded in the 10th century, is a testament to Bulgaria’s rich religious history and is considered a national symbol of Bulgarian culture and identity.

“Discover the Beauty of Bulgaria’s Landscapes”

From the rolling hills of the Balkan Mountains to the sparkling waters of the Black Sea coast, Bulgaria is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Europe.

One of the most popular outdoor destinations in Bulgaria is the Rila National Park. This stunning park is home to the country’s highest mountain, Mount Musala, as well as pristine lakes, dense forests, and a wealth of wildlife.

Another must-visit destination is the Black Sea coast, which is known for its beautiful beaches and lively seaside resorts. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or an action-packed adventure, the Black Sea coast has something to offer everyone.

“Indulge in Bulgaria’s Delicious Cuisine”

Bulgaria is home to a rich and delicious cuisine that is a mix of traditional Balkan dishes and Mediterranean flavors. From hearty stews and grilled meats to fresh salads and delicious pastries, Bulgarian cuisine has something to offer every traveler.

Some of the most popular dishes in Bulgaria include kavarma, a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, and banitsa, a flaky pastry filled with cheese and eggs.

If you’re a foodie, be sure to visit the city of Plovdiv, which is known for its vibrant food scene and has a wide variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from.

“Discover the Beauty of Bulgaria’s Festivals and Events”

Bulgaria is home to a wide variety of festivals and events throughout the year, from cultural celebrations to music and food festivals. One of the most popular festivals is the Rose Festival, which takes place in the town of Kazanlak and celebrates the country’s rose-growing industry.

Another must-visit event is the Plovdiv International Film Festival, which takes place every year in September and showcases the best of Bulgarian and international cinema.

No matter when you visit Bulgaria, there’s sure to be a festival or event that will make your trip even more memorable.

Bulgaria is a truly unique and beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. From its rich history and culture to its stunning landscapes and delicious cuisine, this country is a hidden gem that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the beauty of Bulgaria with our comprehensive travel guide.

FAQs:

Q: Is Bulgaria a safe destination for travelers?
A: Yes, Bulgaria is a safe destination for travelers. However, as with any foreign country, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Q: What is the best time to visit Bulgaria?
A: The best time to visit Bulgaria depends on what you’re looking to do. For outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, the best time to visit is from June to August. For beach activities, the best time is from June to September.

Q: How can I get around Bulgaria?
A: The best way to get around Bulgaria is by car. You can rent a car or take a bus or train, depending on your budget and travel plans.

Q: What currency is used in Bulgaria?
A: The currency used in Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

Q: What is the language spoken in Bulgaria?
A: The official language of Bulgaria is Bulgarian, but many people also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

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Top 14 Places to Visit in Switzerland – A Comprehensive Travel Guide 8 Feb 2023, 5:34 am

Switzerland is a landlocked country located in Europe, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, and modern city life. With so much to see and do, Switzerland is a top destination for tourists and adventure seekers alike. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be taking a closer look at the top 10 places to visit in Switzerland, giving you the lowdown on what you can expect to see and experience in each location.

1. Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau

Lake Geneva is a stunning body of water surrounded by the majestic Swiss Alps. It is the largest lake in Switzerland and is a must-visit destination for tourists. This freshwater lake is bordered by France and Switzerland and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The Jet d’Eau is a famous fountain located in the lake and is a popular tourist attraction. It is 140 meters tall and is considered to be one of the tallest fountains in the world. The fountain is lit up at night and creates a beautiful display that is a must-see for tourists visiting the area.

2. Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and is a hub of commerce, culture, and entertainment. With its bustling city life, stunning architecture, and rich history, Zurich is a top destination for those looking to experience the best of Switzerland’s urban culture. Be sure to visit the Grossmünster Church, the Swiss National Museum, and the Bahnhofstrasse, one of the world’s most famous shopping streets.

3. Mount Pilatus

Mount Pilatus is one of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. With its summit standing at over 2,000 meters above sea level, Mount Pilatus is a popular destination for hikers and mountain climbers alike. Visitors can take a scenic train journey to the top of the mountain, or hike one of the many trails that lead to its summit.

4. Lucerne: A Charming City

Lucerne is a charming city located in central Switzerland and is known for its picturesque medieval architecture, stunning lakeside setting, and iconic wooden bridge. The Chapel Bridge is a famous landmark in Lucerne and is a covered wooden bridge that spans across the Reuss River. The bridge is adorned with paintings and is a must-see for tourists visiting Lucerne. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, including the Swiss Museum of Transport, which is one of the largest transportation museums in the world.

In addition to its rich history and stunning scenery, Lucerne is also known for its vibrant culture. There are many cultural events held in the city, including festivals and concerts, which attract visitors from all over the world.

5. Interlaken: A Gateway to the Swiss Alps

Interlaken is a popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers located in central Switzerland and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. The city is a hub for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountain climbing, and water sports. With its beautiful lakes, rushing rivers, and towering peaks, Interlaken is a top destination for those looking to experience the raw beauty of Switzerland’s natural landscape. It is also home to several lakes, including Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, which are popular destinations for boating and swimming. Interlaken is also a popular destination for paragliding and hang gliding, and there are several companies that offer tandem flights for tourists, and it offers access to several popular ski resorts, including Grindelwald and Murren.

In addition to outdoor activities, Interlaken is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to several festivals and events, including the Interlaken Music Festival and the Interlaken Classic Car Rally, which attract visitors from all over the world.

6. Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a picturesque mountain village located in the Swiss Alps and is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. The village is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery and is home to some of the best ski resorts in Switzerland. The Grindelwald-First ski resort is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world and is a must-visit for ski enthusiasts. The village is also a popular destination for hiking and mountain climbing, and there are numerous trails that lead to stunning mountain views.

7. Bern

The capital city of Switzerland, Bern is known for its rich history and cultural heritage that offers a unique blend of old and new. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, beautiful parks and gardens, and bustling street life, Bern is a top destination for those looking to experience the best of Switzerland’s urban culture. Be sure to visit the Zytglogge clock tower, the Bear Pit, and the Rose Garden.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history and architecture or simply soaking up its vibrant atmosphere, Bern is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Switzerland.

8. St. Moritz: A Luxury Destination

St. Moritz is a luxury ski resort located in the Swiss Alps and is one of the most famous ski resorts in the world. The resort is known for its elegant ski slopes, restaurants, luxurious hotels, and high-end shopping. St. Moritz is a popular destination for wealthy tourists and celebrities, and it is considered to be one of the most exclusive ski resorts in the world. The resort is also a popular destination for winter sports such as ice skating and curling, and there are several world-class events that take place in St. Moritz each year. It is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, and it offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the world.

In addition to skiing, St. Moritz is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The town is home to several historic buildings, including the Engadine Museum and the St. Moritz Art Museum, both of which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the town.

9. Verbier

Verbier is a charming mountain village located in the Swiss Alps, known for its stunning mountain scenery and world-class ski slopes. With its challenging terrain and breathtaking views, Verbier is a top destination for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding.

10. The Matterhorn

The Matterhorn is one of the most iconic peaks in the Swiss Alps, standing at over 4,000 meters above sea level. This majestic mountain is a popular destination for hikers and mountain climbers, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also take a scenic train journey to the mountain’s base, where they can enjoy stunning views of the Matterhorn and its neighboring peaks.

11. Rhine Falls: A Must-visit Destination

One of the largest waterfalls in Europe, the Rhine Falls are a must-visit destination in Switzerland. Located near the town of Schaffhausen, this breathtaking natural wonder offers a truly unique experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore the falls on a boat tour or simply relax on the observation deck, there’s something for everyone at the Rhine Falls.

With its stunning views and breathtaking beauty, the Rhine Falls are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Switzerland. Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, this natural wonder is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

12. Zermatt: A Skier’s Paradise

Zermatt is a skier’s paradise, and it is one of the most popular ski destinations in Switzerland. The resort town is located at the foot of the Matterhorn, and it offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the world.

In addition to skiing, Zermatt is also known for its stunning scenery, including the Matterhorn and the surrounding mountains. The town is also home to several high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy the best of Swiss luxury and hospitality.

13. Lausanne: A Cultural Hub

Lausanne is located on the shores of Lake Geneva, and it is a city that is full of life and culture. Lausanne is one of the few cities in Switzerland that has lively nightlife, and there are many bars and clubs to choose from. It is also home to several museums, including the Olympic Museum and the Musée de l’Elysée, both of which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the city.

Lausanne is also known for its stunning architecture, including the Gothic-style Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Renaissance-style Palais de Rumine. These buildings are a testament to the city’s rich history and its role as a cultural hub.

14. Geneva: A Global Hub

Geneva is a global hub that is located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Switzerland, and it is home to several international organizations, including the World Health Organization and the International Red Cross.

Switzerland is a truly unique and fascinating country, offering visitors a wealth of incredible experiences and breathtaking landscapes. From the stunning peaks of the Swiss Alps to the charming cities and villages dotted throughout the country, Switzerland is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Switzerland is the perfect destination for your next trip. We hope that this comprehensive guide has given you a good overview of the top 14 places to visit in Switzerland and that it has inspired you to plan your next trip to this beautiful country.

FAQs

What is the best time to visit Switzerland?
The best time to visit Switzerland depends on what you’re looking to experience. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, the summer months of June to August are the best time to visit, when the weather is warm and sunny. If you’re looking to ski or snowboard, the winter months of December to March are the best time to visit, when the slopes are covered in snow.

Is Switzerland expensive to visit?
Switzerland is known for being one of the most expensive countries in Europe, with high prices for food, drink, and accommodation. However, there are ways to save money while traveling in Switzerland, such as staying in budget accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and taking advantage of the many free or low-cost activities available in the country.

How many languages are spoken in Switzerland?
Switzerland is a multilingual country, with four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

What are the must-visit places in Switzerland?
The must-visit places in Switzerland include Lake Geneva, Zurich, Mount Pilatus, Lucerne, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Bern, St. Moritz, Verbier, and the Matterhorn. Each of these locations offers its own unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, and is a must-visit for any traveler exploring Switzerland.

What is the currency used in Switzerland?
The currency used in Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF). Visitors can exchange their currency for Swiss Francs at banks, currency exchange offices, and ATMs. It’s a good idea to check the current exchange rate before traveling to Switzerland, to get an idea of the cost of living and what to budget for your trip.

What are the visa requirements for Switzerland?
The visa requirements for Switzerland depend on the traveler’s country of origin and the length of their stay in the country. Visitors from certain countries may be able to enter Switzerland without a visa, while others may need to apply for a visa in advance. U.S. citizens can travel to Switzerland with a valid U.S. passport and do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. It’s a good idea to check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to Switzerland, to ensure that you have the proper documentation for your trip.

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Middle Eastern Travel: Iran 9 Mar 2020, 11:40 pm

The Middle East is a draw for travelers despite its political unrest and warring factions. That’s because this area of the world is steeped in history and culture. You only have to make a sojourn to any of the countries in this region to appreciate the ancient landscape. This part of the world is home to the historic countries or Arab states of:

• Egypt;
• Israel;
• Iran;
• Jordan;
• Lebanon;
• Oman;
• Saudi Arabia;
• Syria;
• Qator;
• Yemen; and
• The United Arab Emirates.

Arranging Travel can Take Some Time if you are Journeying to Iran

That being said, you still wouldn’t think that Iran is necessarily a good travel destination. However, any hostility, you’ll find, is now due more to the politics rather than any overt hostility on the part of the citizenry. Typically, travelers are treated well. However, people from the U.S. cannot make travel arrangements unless they are accompanied by a guide and obtain a visa. These kinds of restrictions make trip planning a somewhat lengthy process, all which can entail waiting a couple months before you can finally travel.

Visiting Tehren

That being said, some intrepid tourists still don’t mind the wait in order to see one of the world’s most ancient countries. Iran, which was called Persia until the mid-30s, has a history that dates back to the 500s B.C. You will indeed experience a culture like no other when you visit such cities as Tehran or Isfahan (which was Persia’s capital in the sixteenth century). In Tehren, the Homa Hotel provides comfortable lodgings while the Khayyam Traditional Restaurant specializes in local fare. Enjoy the lamb stew or dizi – a concoction made up of lamb, potatoes, onions and garbanzo beans.
Other Attractions in the Country
Tourists, in winter, head to the Alborz Mountains to ski while history buffs travel throughout the year to see the architecture in Isfahan. The Ali Qapu Palace and the Inmam Mosque, both located in the former capital in Naghsh-Jahan Square, were built in the seventeenth century.
Find Resort Accommodations on the Island of Kish
In addition, Kish, an island on the Persian Gulf, offers resort accommodations at the Dariush Grand Hotel, where white sands and water sports attract visitors from all over the world.
Not a Credit Card-friendly Country
Regardless of where you may choose to go or stay though, bring along cash. You won’t be able to use your credit cards except at the largest hotels. Also, ATMs do not link to American banks.

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Traveling through South Africa by Bus 12 Aug 2015, 2:05 am

Traveling by Bus in South Africa: A Good Transportation Option for the Budget-conscious Traveler

Rather than renting a vehicle or traveling by plane, you may want to consider a more affordable way of transport if you plan to visit South Africa anytime soon. Bus service is a viable alternative as the country is represented by four major lines (SA Roadlink, Translux, Intercape, and Greyhound).

Enjoy the Ever-changing View

Travel is safe and comfortable in any of the air-conditioned coaches of the aforementioned lines. Passengers can sit back in a reclining seat, watch TV, or view the ever-changing scenery. Less comfortable coaches that provide less expensive travel are also available on the Translux, SA Roadlink and Intercape bus lines.

Greyhound offers Travel Outside of South Africa Too

Plus, if you want to venture outside of South Africa, you can do so by booking passage on Greyhound, which regularly travels to such African destiantions as Mozambique, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia.

Traveling within South Africa via the Baz Bus

If you are really frugal or are backpacking through South Africa, then you may think about traveling via the Baz Bus, which is a transportation service that provides services to such South African cities as Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, and Cape Town. Baz buses provide hop-on-hop-off service with a fleet of about 20 buses, all which are designed with television entertainment and space for bags and luggage.

The Mini Bus Taxi – Still yet Another Inexpensive Mode of Transport

Even though it’s a very cheap way to travel, the mini bus, another option, is also not entirely safe. So, if you elect to choose this mode of travel, don’t catch the taxi at night and be careful about displaying any expensive items when you are traveling. Also, when you board the bus, make sure that you have your fee ready for the driver. Some passengers have been robbed while they were rummaging through their purse or pocket for the fare.

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Cinque Terre Travel Guide and Travel Information 4 Aug 2015, 10:40 pm

Italy Travel: Cinque Terre where mountains and sea meet.

The Cinque terre are drawn on the coast of Liguria in the territory of the Province of La Spezia.

Cinque terre (in english five lands) consists of five small villages Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

The Cinque Terre, thanks to the geographic and anthropomorphous characteristics of the territory, are one of the main natural tourist attractions of Italy.

Mountains sweetened from the construction of terrazzamenti or bands for the cultivation, than cove towards the sea with strong slopes. Men’s work, in the centuries, has modeled the territory without to alter of the delicate ecological equilibrium, but exalting the beauty.

In 1997, on request of the province of La Spezia, the Cinque Terre, together wit Porto Venere and to the islands Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, have been inserted between the Unesco World Heritage sites

In 1998 the Ministry dell’ Atmosphere institutes a Natural area marina protect Cinque Terre for the environmental protection them, the protection and the valorization of the biological resources, for the spreading and promotion of a compatible associate-economic development with the naturalistic-landscaped importance dell’ area.

In 1999 it has been instituted the National Park of the Cinque Terrefor the conservation of the ecological equilibrium, the protection of the landscape, the safeguard of the anthropological values of the place.

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World Wide Wine Infographic 28 Jul 2015, 6:10 pm

Wine is one of the great beverages of the world. It can be considered as an integral part of any meal. There are many interesting facts about this noble drink and some of them deserve your special attention.

Scroll down and check out the infographic that reveals top 3 wine regions, top 10 wine brands and some unusual wines that you might never heard of.

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Mojito recipe! A taste from Cuba 21 Jul 2015, 11:53 pm

Mojito is a refreshing cocktail made with white rum.

Originally from Cuba, you can order a Mojito everywhere in the world however it is hard to find a good one!

It’s made of five ingredients: white rum of course, lime, sugar cane juice, sparkling water or tonic and fresh mint leaves.

The original Cuban recipe uses spearmint a lighter mint variety very popular in Cuba.

Its combination of sweetness, refreshing citrus and mint flavours are intended to complement the potent kick of the rum, and have made this clear highball a popular summer drink.

When preparing a Mojito, lime juice is added to sugar can juice and mint leaves. The mixture is then gently mashed. The mint leaves should only be bruised to release the essential oils and should not be shredded. Then rum is added and the mixture is briefly stirred to dissolve the sugar and to lift the mint sprigs up from the bottom for better presentation. Finally, the drink is topped with ice cubes and sparkling water. Mint leaves and lime wedges are used to garnish the glass.

The Mojito is one of the most famous rum-based highballs. Enjoy it with moderation!

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Endangered Animals List with Pictures and Names 5 Jun 2015, 1:16 am

14 Endangered Animals And Where To Find Them

Humans have always been fascinated with animals – there are few we haven’t hunted, feared, bred, domesticated, drawn on cave walls or composed songs and poetry about. But nothing compares with the thrill you get when you see an animal for the first time. Just seeing the brute majestic rhino or the effete elegance of a tiger can be a life-changing experience.

Even Stephen Fry, famous international clever chap, couldn’t help but giggle like schoolgirl when he swam with a manatee for the first time. ‘Last Chance To See’, BBC2 production, sees Fry travel in search of endangered animals, and goes to show that we don’t just need animals to do practical stuff like regulate our ecosystems – when we’re communicating with an animal, we humans feel less alone too. Watching Fry, heart caught in his throat, shaking hands with a gorilla is a joyous thing in itself.

But many of the rare creatures we dream about one day meeting and forging life-long bonds with are being threatened by extinction. For some it is only so much time before the only place we’ll get to see them is in specimen jars in a zoological museum, bottled, labelled and vanished for good.

Climate change is a contributing factor, of course, but used intelligently and in moderation, our holidays can have immense benefits. Relatively few threatened species have been directly effected as a result of climate change, with poaching, overfishing, deforestation, overpopulation, disease, the effect of introduced species and civil war far more likely to precipitate collapse.

Lend your support when traveling by visiting some of the many national parks, zoos, nature reserves and conservation projects around the globe who rely on visitors not only for income, but also to spread knowledge and awareness of their cause.

Below we present 14 of the rarest animals to see.

1. Seychelles Giant Tortoise

Conservation Status: Extinct in the wild
How Many: 12
Where: Schönbrunn Zoo, Vienna, Austria

Seychelles Giant Tortoise

 

2. California Condor

Conservation Status: Critically endangered
How Many: 336
Where: San Diego Zoo, California, USA

California Condor

 

3. Grizzly Bear

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
How Many: 1,500 (aprox.)
Where: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA

Grizzly Bear

 

4. Whooping Crane

Conservation Status: Endangered
How Many: 538
Where: Calgary Zoo, Alberta, Canada

Whooping Crane

 

5. Cross River Gorilla

Conservation Status: Critically endangered
How Many: 280
Where: Cross River National Park, Nigeria

Cross River Gorilla

 

6. Chinese Alligator

Conservation Status: Critically endangered
How Many: 10,000 (aprox.)
Where: Madras Crocodile Bank, India

Chinese Alligator

 

7. Mexican Spotted Owl

Conservation Status: Endangered
How Many: 2,000 (aprox.)
Where: Wildlife Centre, Espanola, New Mexico, USA

Mexican Spotted Owl

 

8. Black Rhino

Conservation Status: Critically endangered
How Many: 3,600 (aprox.)
Where: Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania

Black Rhino

 

9. Sumatran Tiger

Conservation Status: Critically endangered
How Many: 100-140
Where: Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia

Sumatran Tiger

 

10. Barbary Lion

Conservation Status: Extinct in the wild
How Many: Less than 40
Where: Belfast Zoo, Northern Ireland

Barbary Lion

 

11. Giant Panda

Conservation Status: Endangered
How Many: 2,000-3,000 (aprox.)
Where: Smithsonian National Geological Park, Washington, USA

Giant Panda

 

12. Amazonian Manatee

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
How Many: Unknown (10,000 in 1977)
Where: Yasuni National Park and Biosphere Reserve, Ecuador

Amazonian Manatee

 

13. Blue Whale

Conservation Status: Endangered
How Many: 5,000-12,000
Where: Reykjavik Harbour, Iceland

Blue Whale surfacing to breathe

 

14. Komodo Dragon

Conservation Status: Vulnerable
How Many: 4,000-5,000
Where: Komodo Island, Indonesia

Komodo Dragon

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Top 6 things to See and Do in London, England 7 May 2015, 4:18 pm

To truly experience London, you also have to immerse yourself in local activities. Therefore, you’ll want to not only visit the amazing attractions, you’ll also want to experience life in London first hand. The following activities and sights are great items to include on your travel itinerary.

 

1. Stroll and Browse through the Shops on Oxford Street

On the weekends, become part of the shopping scene by browsing through the fashionable shops and boutiques in this well-known shopping district.

 

2. Order Fish and Chips

Whether you buy the popular English meal and snack at a stand or enjoy it at a restaurant, no trip to London should be taken without sampling this local cuisine.

 

3. See the City from the Top Level of a Double-Decker Bus

You can tour London from up high on one of the city’s red tour buses that feature a double deck. The activity is an inexpensive and fun way to get to know London as you can tool around town for the small price of a day pass.

 

4. Visit Big Ben

An iconic London landmark, Big Ben refers to the large bell in the clock tower of the Houses of Parliament. The bell first chimed on New Year’s Eve in 1923. Renamed during the Diamond Jubilee in 2012 to the Elizabeth Tower, in honor of Queen Elizabeth, the edifice is striking (no pun intended) when it is lit at night.

 

5. Visit the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace plays host to evening tours of its state rooms, all which give visitors the chance to witness the gold and glitter and artwork of this section of the royal residence.

 

6. Visit the Tower of London

Nighttime tours are also offered of the Tower of London, all which lead visitors down gruesome corridors where yeoman guides convey spooky stories about the building’s past residents.

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Frankfurt, Germany Travel Guide and Travel Information 26 Aug 2014, 6:30 am

Frankfurt, Germany Travel Guide – Viewing Altstadt (Old Town Frankfort)

There are Many Beautiful Churches to See in the Area of the Romerberg (Frankfurt’s Old Town Square.)

Sightseeing in Frankfurt often begins at Katharinenkirche, or the Church of St. Catherine, which is considered the center of Protestantism in the city. South of this landmark is Paulskirche (or the Church of St Paul) – the historic site where the first all-German Parliament met in 1848.

Landmark Sites in Romerberg Square

Romerberg Square, which is Frankfurt’s ancient center of town in the area of Altstadt (Old Town), is significant as it marks the location where the elections of the Holy Roman emperors were celebrated and proclaimed. The Fountain of Justitia, which sits in the middle of it all, reportedly sprouted wine at the coronation of the emperor Matthias in the seventeenth century. However, wine has not gushed forth from the font ever since due to the overwhelming response, or the crush of people that occurred as a result.

 

The Romer

The City Hall, or Frankfort’s Romer, seems to exhibit a mild-mannered façade when you compare the building with the other city halls in Germany. Conveying a gabled Gothic front, the building has been used for political purposes and ceremonial events as well as commerce.

 

The Kaisersaal

The Kaisersaal (or Emperor’s Hall) was last used to commemorate the election of the Emperor Francis II. Legend has it that the poet Goethe (who was also born in Frankfort) posed as a waiter in the complex’s main banquet hall during the coronation celebration of Emperor Joseph II in 1765.

 

Nikolaikirche

Chimes ring out daily over Romerberg Square from the glockenspiel carillon inside the Nikolaikirche (St. Nicholas’s Church) on the south side. So, you’ll want to time your visit during the daytime hours when the music is regularly heard, or between morning and early evening. Most often, the resounding bells are heard around noon.

 

Leonhardskirche und Karmeliterkirche und Karmeliterkloster

Indeed, you’ll find many beautiful churches in Frankfurt. For example, the Leonhardskirche (St. Leonard’s Church) exhibits a lovely Bavarian altar (circa 1500) while Karmeliterkirche und Karmeliterkloster (Carmelite Church and Monastery) is home to a large religious fresco that depicts the birth and death of Christ.

 

Goethehaus and Goethe Museum

The Goethehaus and Goethe Museum are major attractions in Frankfurt too – both which sit on the site where the poet was born in 1749. Although the house was annihilated by Allied bombs during the Second World War, the building was carefully reconstructed and furnished with pieces from Goethe’s home. The adjacent Goethe Museum features memorabilia and artwork that define the life and times of this well-known German poet.

 

Enjoy the Local Cuisine

After seeing the aforementioned landmarks, you, no doubt, will want to take a timeout at one of Frankfurt’s charming pubs or restaurants. Or, take a short drive to one of the outlying villages where you can enjoy inexpensive yet tasty local dishes served in picturesque 19^th century styled apple-cider taverns. In warmer times of the year, some of the eateries serve their German fare in shaded courtyards outside.

 

Accommodations:

 

The Karben Hotel in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is home to a number of Bed and Breakfast establishments, many of which display a kind of Hansel and Gretel charm. One of the affordable accommodations is the three-star Karben Hotel in Frankfurt, which is noted for its reasonable prices and friendly and helpful staff.

 

When to Go

This Frankfurt travel guide recommends that travelers go to Frankfurt any time during the year. That’s because Germany’s climate is generally temperate. Therefore, summers aren’t particularly oppressive nor are winters exceptionally cold.

 

Winter and Summer Temperatures

For instance, the average high and low temperatures for the coldest part for the year (January) are 35 degrees Fahrenheit/1 degree Celsius and 23 degrees Fahrenheit/-5 degrees Celsius. During the warmest time of the year (July), highs and lows run, on average, at around 74 degrees Fahrenheit/23 degrees Celsius and 55 degrees Fahrenheit/13 degrees Celsius.

 

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