World Travel Guide

This is the way Nazim Hikmet described TURKEY and a look on the map shows you immediately that the country is surrounded on three sides by the sea: The Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara on the west coast, the Eastern Mediterranean Sea in the south and the Black Sea in the north. The population of the country is around 70 million. Turkey has little land in Europe (24.000 square kilometers), and most of its land in Asia (756.000 square kilometers) Thrace being the name of the European part and Anatolia being the name of the Asian part. Istanbul is the most important city in Turkey and the population is more than 12 million. The Asian continent is connected to Europe in Istanbul, with two impressive suspended bridges across the Bosphorus, connecting the European and Asian parts of Istanbul.

It is hardly surprising that sea side resorts like Antalya, Alanya, Marmaris, Bodrum or Kusadasi are very popular with tourists from Europe. This may lead you to believe Turkey is very much oriented towards the sea. You couldn't be more wrong: "Anadolu", the Anatolian high central plateau is where Turkish culture is rooted. The soul of the country is to be found in the green pastures of the hinterland, where shepherds still move their herds with the seasons.

This is why you shouldn't be surprised that the Turkish Republic chose Ankara as the capital. The city is located centrally in Anatolia. For travelers, the city offers some interesting sights and attractions, the most imporant ones being the Museum of Anatolian Culture and the Mausoleum of Ataturk.

Istanbul is Turkey's prime attraction. As Frank Sinatra says "I would like to wake up in a city which does not sleep" New York and Istanbul fit that catagory very well, to see that, cross the Bosphorus Bridge or drive along the Bosphorus at midnight!! Istanbul has the most beautiful mosques (Blue Mosque) and palaces (Topkapı and Dolmabahce) of the country, it has Byzantine churches (Kariye and St. Sophia) and Roman temples. Without fear of exaggeration one can say that Istanbul's claim to the title of Eternal city is as justified as Rome's. There are about 12 million people in the city. You can find all kinds of attractions in the city. Make sure that you shop and bargain in the Covered Bazaar (Kapali Carsi), which was built in early 15th century.

Cappadocia is another great sight: it is both a natural wonder and the result of human inventiveness. Soft volcanic rock, called tuffs, formed a landscape of bizarre beauty (fairy chimneys) , but it was man who made their homes, churches, shops and courtrooms in them. All of these are decorated in a highly original style. There are more than 1000 churches under ground.

In the South East of Anatolia you find the strange rock statues at Nemrut Dagi, near Kahta, Adıyaman, which could remind you of Easter island, as well as ancient cities like Van, located on lake Van, and Dogubayazit. When you go west of eastern Anatolia you will find Turkey's "sports city", Erzincan. Also make sure you visit, Diyabakır which has the second longest city walls in the world. Also the other cities are worth to visit Mardin, Midyat, Hasankeyf, Batman and Urfa..

On the South coast of Turkey you will find approximately 600 old Greek and Roman ruins, mostly well preserved. About 1 hour west of Kemer there is the wonderfull Roman town Phasalis: this is a museum town, where you can see the remains of a complete Roman city, including a military harbour, an aquaduct, a theater and many more buildings. You will walk on the old Roman roads between those buildings.

Mount Ararat, at 5,165 m the highest point in the country, is said to be the resting place of Noah's Ark. The famed city of Troy is here as well, south of Istanbul. And you must not leave without seeing Ephesus, the legendary city , home to the Temple of Artemis and the city where Saint Peter wandered, spreading his gospel before settling in Crete. There are many other sites of archaeological and religious significance. With such a diversity of things to see, Turkey is a wonderful destination for any traveler.

Dalyan is established in an environmentally protected area. This is one of the few surviving places of paradise, an area of natural beauty and historical interest. The ancient city of Caunos lies here with its ruins dating back to the 3rd Century. The Dalyan channel through which water circulates between the Mediterranean and Koycegiz Lake winds its way down past the ancient Rock Tombs to the sea, via a small network of lakes and waterways. Through the rustling reed beds rising between 3 and 5 metres in height. With its mixture of fresh and salt water, these wetlands are now home to a vast number of fish and other water life, as well as the birds of many species which feed on them, species such as the Sparrow hawk, Crane, Kingfisher and Jay. The Stork is also native to this area migrating here at the end of March to nest until the end of August. Dividing the delta is the Iztuzu sandbar stretching for 5 km east from the south of the channel. With fine crystal sand, shallow turquoise sea Iztuzu beach is the ideal seaside spot. Which can be reached by regular dolmus or boat service from Dalyan. This is also the beach where the endangered Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta Caretta) and the green turtle (Chelonia Mydas) have returned to lay their eggs since the beginning of time. The nesting time being from May till October.

For such a small country, you have many options from which to choose: A San Francisco-esque city, spreading over seven hills which descend into the Rio Tejo (Tagus River)- Lisbon is perhaps Europe’s most pleasant and affordable city. Its fantastic architecture, diverse population, delicious seafood, intriguing tile-work and non-stop night-life bring together the best elements of Portuguese life. Don’t miss an evening bar-hopping in the Bairro Alto listening to contemporany hip music and Portuguese blues-fado!

Tour beautifully restored towns and well-preserved architecture of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites in Evora , Batalha and Alcobaça . If you are interested in monuments, Evora and Coimbra are must-sees.

The most beautiful natural areas lie in the Minho , Lima, and Douro valley. You can explore the verdant beauty and rural customs of the Minho Valley, or check out the spectacular gorge in the Douro valley.

The city of Oporto is located at the end of the Douro Valley, on the sea, and is famous for its port wine. It is an excellent base for exploring the region.

The South also boasts some of the best preserved natural reserves in Europe. The best example being the Natural park of the Southwest of the Alentejo and Vicentine Coast, comprising two mountain ranges and 200 miles of southern coastline dotted with idilic beaches and secluded coves.

If it’s the beach you are after, the Algarve coast offers highly developed stretches of beach. The rest of the coast (with the exception of the area near Lisbon and Porto) remain relaxing, totally Portuguese and isolated. Great stretches of sand are there for the relaxing, especially along the northern Costa Verde , near Viano do Castelo . The beaches near southern Alentejo are the most remote and least populated.

Transportation and accommodation are excellent and very reasonable, perhaps the cheapest in Europe. The wine is excellent and don’t forget to try some vinho do Porto (port), Portugal’s most famous export.

Founded in the 9th century by Serbian dynastyof Vlastimirovic, Serbia evolved into a Kingdom in 1217 inheriting the First Kingdom of Zeta (today's Montenegro),

The Serbian apogee in economy, law, military, and religion took place during the rule of the House of Nemanjić between 1166 and 1371; the Serbian Kingdom was proclaimed in 1217, joined later by the Kingdom of Syrmia, Banovina of Mačva and Bosnia; finally, the Serbian Empire of Stefan Dušan was formed in 1346.

Under Dušan's rule, Serbia reached its territorial peak, becoming one of the larger states in Europe. The renowned Dušan's Code, a universal system of laws, was enforced.

Belgrade broke off and joined Catholic Hungary, resisting the Ottomans until 1521, when most of today's Vojvodina (northern Serbia) was also included into the Muslim Empire; at one point Second Serbian Empire of Jovan Nenad was established but the state was shortlasting. By the end of the 17th century Vojvodina expelled the Turks and joined Austrian Empire, followed by Belgrade and Central Serbia, however the latter only for a couple of decades. Serbian revolutions in Turkey between 1804-1815 enabled Serbia to establish itself as an independent state for the first time in 300 years; however following the Napoleon's invasion on Russia Serbia had lost an important ally so it was obligated to ackgnowledge supreme Ottoman rule. Nevertheless, from that point onwards Serbia was governed by its own Prince, formally proclaiming its independence during the Russo-Turkish war (1875-78) alongside Montenegro. South Serbia, Sandzak and Kosovo united with Serbia as a result of the Balkan wars against Turkey and Bulgaria; Vojvodina broke off from Austro-Hungary to join Serbian Kingdom following the collapse of the Empire in 1918. Finally, this Kingdom of Serbia (corresponding more or less to its modern size) was merged with the former Austro-Hungarian territories (Slovene, Croatian and Serbian), and united with the Kingdom of Montenegro to form Kingdom of Yugoslavia (official name since 1929), governed by the Serbian royal dynasty Karadjordjevic.

Geopolitical profile

Serbia is a Central European (Pannonian) and South European (Balkan) country, with variety of nations, religions and geohistorical regions. If we exclude population of Kosovo which comprises up to 23% of the overall population, the country is a nation of 7.5 million people, out of which 6 million are ethnic Serbs, followed by Hungarians, Bosniaks, Slovaks, Croats, Montenegrins etc. Some 80% of the country is Serbian Orthodox Christian, while 8% are Catholics, with 7% Muslim and the rest beeing atheists. Although official language of Serbia (proper) is Serbian, Vojvodina province ackgnowledges also Hungarian, Slovak, Croatian, Romanian and Rusyn as official; local communes are conducted in Bosniak, Bulgarian and Albanian languages as well, while Kosovo's official language is Albanian apart from Serbian.

Manila is the capital of the Philippines and was founded on June 24th, 1571 on the harbor now known as Manila Bay on the east coast of Luzon, the Philippines largest and most northerly island. It is the second largest city in the country with a population of 1,581,000 trailing second behind Quezon City with 2,173,000. Manila started out as a humble village and has grown to become the governmental, commercial and educational center of the nation.

The heart of old Manila can be found inside Intramuros - meaning "within the walls," a well cared for 15th century original Spanish settlement. The fort and St. Augustine Church still are good examples of colonial architecture. Old ruins damaged by WWII still stand across the landscape while modern edifices dart the distant skyline. An outstanding example of colonial architecture is the Manila Cathedral, the third to be built on site and whose tower and dome can be seen miles away. Eateries specializing in savory local cuisine as well as international tastes are conveniently located within the walls. While a golf course encircles the entire ancient settlement.

Sidewalk cafes give the city a decidedly European flavor, expecially in the areas with Bauhaus buildings. Shopping at the enclosed Dizengoff Center is pleasant.

Tel Aviv is also the business center of Israel, and has the largest percentage of young people.

Jaffa is the old arabic part of Tel Aviv. It is much older (Tel Aviv was founded in 1909) and is now some sort of the Quartier Latin of the city. Although it has many small and trendy boutiques it still retains some of its flavour as an arabic city.

The best reason to come to Tel Aviv is to have a good time, the nightlife is great, there are good restaurants, there are so many shops, the beaches aren't bad and there is always something going on.

A good place for trendy shopping would be Sheinkin street; Kikar Hamedina is known for its upscale (and expensive) shops; and Azriely center, Ramat Aviv mall and Dizengoff center would answer all your shopping mall needs. Alternatively, you can check out Shuk HaCarmel, a large street market held daily on Carmel St.

Bazel and Rotschild streets have the best coffee places; Allenby, Lilienblum streets and the Tel Aviv port is where you'll find all night parties and bars; and you shouldn't miss the beach - for sunbathing and babe watching.

Crossing from the city of Rome over the Tiber, the first building you see, at the end of Via della Conciliazione, is St. Peter’s Basilica (Michelangelo designed the dome and his Pieta is exhibited within). Plan at least 3 (or more) hours in St. Peter’s: After walking around inside be sure to go to the roof for the view (it’s usually hazy so you might just want to go up there for the pretty sunsets) visit its in-house museum and see the grotto below (where St. Peter and John Paul II, among other popes, are buried). The baldequino over the main altar built with bronze looted from the Pantheon is an interesting example of baroque design.

Other Vatican sites include the Apostolic Palace, beautiful gardens, the Piazza St. Pietro (St. Peter's Square) and the Vatican museum (http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/MV_Home.html). To many, the highlight of the museum is the Sistine Chapel whose ceiling (painted by Michelangelo) has undergone a controversial restoration which revealed colors much brighter than seen previously. But the museums offer much more: The Etruscan and Roman collections are among the finest and most extensive in the world; the Raphael Stanzas are a series of spectacular frescoed rooms; the Gallery of Tapestries and Maps details the Earth as it was thought to be in the 16th century; and the Museum of Modern Religious Art highlights the 20th century.

The buildings (except for St. Peter’s Basilica) are usually open for limited hours with admission from 8.45 am - 1.20 pm although the hours recently have been extended mid March-October from 8.45 am - 3.25 pm. With so much to see in a limited time, you may want to see the Vatican over a period of 2 mornings saving St. Peter’s for the afternoons. The museums are closed on Sundays except for the last Sunday of the month when entry is free (and the crowds are huge).

On Sundays the pope leads the Angelus from his apartment window, and offers a blessing. He also holds Audiences on Wednesdays in the Square or in bad weather in Paul VI Audience Hall nearby (during the summer he resides in Castel Gandolfo, just south of Rome). While there is open seating, to reserve a (closer) place contact Monseigneur Charles Elmer, Office of the Audiences, Casa Santa Maria, Via dell’ Unilta 30, 00187 Rome, phone 39-6-686-8553, fax 39-6-679-1448. If possible, include a recommendation from your local parish priest or bishop's office. Tickets can be picked up on Tuesday between 3-9 pm at the Casa Santa Maria (located near Trevi fountain).

For best viewing of the Vatican’s art and museums get in line well before opening hours and be prepared for tremendous crowds. The queues are long, so be prepared to be waiting for up to an hour. The Vatican Museum is quite possibly the most important art collection in the world. To appreciate this extraordinary collection, avoid peak times. Then you won't have to worry about being shoved forward by the crowd, most who are anxious to get to the Sistine Chapel. This is a huge collection, but minimal information is displayed beside the pieces. Solution: Rent the portable recorded tour cassette available in several languages, or come prepared with a good guide book.

Looking for something to do this summer? Places to get away to? Ways to spend a vacation? We've got you covered

Summer is here, spring is gone. In many places it's hot. Really hot. Not surprisingly, we look to the beach for some relief from the sun, or look for the sun after a long winter's hibernation behind a desk. Well, time to strike out a bit and use up some of that vacation time you've been squirreling away. Here are some suggestions that should get you salivating for a little summer fun.

1. Chill out on one of Hong Kong's beaches

While Hong Kong's beaches might not be quite up to Bali or Vietnam levels of awesomeness, they still provide a pretty damn nice way to spend an afternoon. The best overall Hong Kong beach is probably Shek O. While it can get crowded with nearly 4,000 people visiting Shek O Beach on weekends, its still big enough to absorb the crowds without making things too uncomfortable. Take bus 9 or the red minibus from Shau Kei Wan MTR.

2. Lounge on Vietnam's finest beach -- Jungle Beach

Vietnam’s finest beach is hidden about an hour north of Nha Trang on a remote stretch of the Hon Khoi Peninsula. The boundaries of air and water are indistinct in the crystal sea, where night swimming with bioluminescent algae is on the regular activities list. The most intriguing views from this unique bamboo cabana homestay are the troupes of Black-shanked Douc Langurs, one of Indochina’s rarest primates.

3. Go super luxury at one of these Thai resorts

Thailand has dozens of supremely luxurious resorts that will easily allow you to spend a month’s salary in a single night if you want to, from pool villas overlooking the Andaman Sea to tiny boutique hotels so exclusive they don't even want you to have heard of them. But hey, you've seen one run-of-the-mill luxury villa, you've seen them all. If you’re looking for some next level pampering and opulent surroundings, check out these extraordinarily fancy digs.

4. Take off on a golf getaway

Whack a ball on a course in the Himalayas, play a course at an UNESCO world heritage site in Siem Reap, Cambodia, or enjoy the five star treatment like the former French Colonialists in Vietnam. Golf is a sunshine sport, so get out there while the gettin' is good.

5. Have a romantic tropical vacation at Le Taha'a Island Resort and Spa, Tahiti

Yes there are a lot of beaches on this list, but hey, it is summer time and Le Taha's golden beaches, turquoise water and perfume of native vanilla plants in one of the prettiest resorts in French Polynesia make Le Taha a great place to go for a "hot" summer getaway. Resort activities range from diving and snorkeling to jet-skiing and whale watching.

6. Have a long luxury weekend in Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang’s hip restaurants and buzzy bars are no longer a secret, but the town -- along with its surrounding caves, waterfalls, jungle and Mekong river villages -- is yet to be discovered by the masses. Languid and laid-back, its intimate scale is ideal for a long weekend. Read more about Luang Prabang.

7. Picnic in Hong Kong

Many Hong Kong country parks have rest areas that are ready-made for picnics. So if you're living in or visiting Hong Kong this summer, pick a day where it's not raining and thaw out those air-conditioner frozen limbs in the sweet, humid Hong Kong sunshine.

8. Dive in Pulau Redang, Malaysia

Heaven underwater? Sounds cheesy, but apparently this place is as close to perfection as it gets for diving. Redang Island (locally known as Pulau Redang or just "Redang") off the east coast of Malaysia, is one of those places where you'd expect a shiny-chested James Bond to come dripping out of the waters and stride down the sands for a martini.

Fine white sand, clear blue waters and colorful marine life -- it's almost a cliché of the Blue Lagoon type tropical paradise, but it's real and it's just a short ride or flight away from Singapore. Stay at Laguna Redang Island Resort -- a beautiful expanse of classic buildings, filled with wooden structures and lush greenery -- which offers various packages to visitors, of which numerous snorkeling trips are included.

9. Experience Japanese summer culture at Enoshima

Enoshima is a core sample of Japanese summer culture, a mini-mountain of rock, stone and wood rising steep and green from the Shonan surf. It is one of Eastern Japan's favorite summer destinations, visited by families, courting couples and visitors to the area looking to get away from the beach for a while.

10. Sleep on a beach in Goa, India

Or relax with the Goa hippies, or eat out at the numerous restaurants or motorbike through the countryside. Goa has your summer fix. If the heat proves too much, there's always the air conditioned confines of a five-star hotel to cool you off after a day of biking.

11. Go native -- Tibetan style -- in Jiuzhaigou

Jiuzhaigou, Tibet is home to a pristine national park chock full of Alpine lakes and waterfalls located in northwest Sichuan province. Many tours equipped with flag-bearing guides depart from Chengdu by bus (11 hours) or plane (one hour) and after the trip, return to the originating city. But you can ditch the flag and tour guides and get to experience the real Jiuzhaigou by participating in home-stay programs.

12. Visit one of Asia's next gen tourist hot spots

Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam

The Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam, China's Hainan Island, Phu Quoc in Vietnam, and Marinduque in the Philippines are all up and coming tourist hot spots. They're also amazing summer destinations, each for unique reasons.

13. Surf in Hainan, China

Speaking of Hainan, why not go surfing? Hainan Island, sometimes called, perhaps generously, “China’s Hawaii,” is a growing tourist destination off the country’s southern coast, just east of Vietnam. It’s famous for hosting Chinese beauty pageants, but is also home to a small but growing community of surfers -- both Chinese and foreign. Each November, Sanya, the island's capital, hosts the second annual Surfing Hainan Open.

14. Relax like a rock star at Amanpuri Resort in Phuket

Make no mistake about it, a visit to Aman Resort's Amanpuri in Phuket, Thailand is an eye-opening experience. Vacation like a rock star this summer at Amanpuri.

15. Escape on an affordable last minute getaway

Party hard in Dubai or conquer a mountain in Japan among other things. Living in Asia affords many destinations close at hand. Some affordable, some not so much.

16. Dodge military ordinance and hit the beach at Sarushima Island, Japan

Sarushima is the rock that guards the entrance to Tokyo Bay, otherwise known as Monkey Island even though there's not one primate to be found. What makes Sarushima a hot commodity to Tokyoites is that its located 1.7 km off Yokosuka, and is the only bit of land in the bay that does not have cliffs and beaches made of concrete.

17. Explore Laos all along the Mekong River

Mekong River, Vietnam

The Mekong River is a one of the great rivers of the world, weaving the countries of China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam into a web of interdependent ecosystems and indigenous cultures. The Mekong’s meandering journey through Laos is one of the most pristine, diverse and accessible routes along the entire river.

18. Kick back on one of Asia's most idyllic beaches

Life's a beach, and in Asia there's a whole lot of good living to be had. We've researched and uncovered the top beach destinations to be found in the region. We've even broken them down into three categories -- secluded beaches, action beaches and local flavor -- so all you need to do is decide exactly how much coastal paradise you can handle.

19. Get minimal at Koh Kood, Thailand

Thailand’s Koh Kood is possibly one of the very few places that can live up to the myth of the unpeopled Asian beachy paradise. It’s got the necessary props -- a rainforest, quaint fishing villages, coconut plantations, snorkeling spots, and a population of less than 2,000. It’s also sufficiently out-of-the-way. Getting there requires an hour’s plane ride from Bangkok’s Trat airport, or a train and boat expedition from Bangkok. The Koh Kood experience is like taking a step back in time: minimal electricity, scarce Internet access and few cars. The accommodation on the island ranges from wildly expensive resorts to homestays.

20. Hammocks a-plenty at An Bang Beach, Vietnam

Hoi An beach, Vietnam

Today Rotterdam is the most modern city in The Netherlands, with the high rising towers of company buildings in the center. Some people think it became a playground for architects trying their theories and thus making Rotterdam one giant wind tunnel, but you can really feel things are happening here if you are interested in architecture. For quite some time it is the place to be for a perfect night out. Though Rotown has decent, though small acts and is well-known internationally, The Thalialounge is the place to see and be seen in a groovy club atmosphere, and De Doelen is a wonderful venue for classical music. Clubs like Now&Wow, Off Corso and Baja Beach Club are very popular in The Netherlands. Rotterdam has become nightlife city number one, taking over this position from Amsterdam.

Symbol of Rotterdam is the Euromast Space Tower, 605ft/184m tall that had to be extended several times to keep its leading position as highest building of the Meuse city. From this tower with its revolving sit-down elevator you have an excellent view over the city and the surrounding industrial harbour landscape. The harbour, one of the busiest in the world, is a draw in itself and still the largest one if you count by pure volume.

A city like this can’t do without Museums. A collection of painting, sculpture and design worth seeing is displayed at the Boymans-van-Beuningen Museum. A day in Rotterdam is sufficient for most, but you can also spend several days if you want to see it all. The Dutch institutes of photography and of architecture are located right near the center, and there are lots of galleries. In February there is always the International Film Festival and every other year there is a photo biennale. The Kunsthal, designed by the famous architect Rem Koolhaas, has changing exhibitions on all sorts of expressions of art and culture.

The people, though claiming to be one of the friendliest of Holland, tend to somewhat distrust foreigners. In 2004 the city laws to forbid people from poorer families to settle in the city came to be, when all other recources were depleted to stop poverty from becoming ever more popular. It is therefore no surprise Rotterdam was also the home of the right wing politician Pim Fortuyn, who became the first victim ever of political assassination in The Netherlands when he was killed on May 6th, 2002. There is a statue you can visit, which still regularly has flowers put underneath it.

Because Rotterdam is very near Brussels and The Hague and because it is a huge port, it has a huge expat community which has settled in this only Dutch metropole. Actually, near to 60% of the population is either non-Dutch or Dutch born abroad (allochtonen, in Dutch). The problem most of the expat community encounters is the bureaucratic way the municipality and government handles licenses, legal documentation etc. If you want to live in Rotterdam or The Netherlands be sure to learn the language as fast as you can, because there is a tendency of being less tolerant in The Netherlands. The Dutch can get very annoyed if you have lived there for a few years and still don't talk Dutch. For the expat community in Rotterdam there is website with all kinds of tips & tricks to get used to the Rotterdam way of life www.yourrotterdam.com. Furthermore you can always contact the municipality for information about living in Rotterdam. Most of the hassle above can be ignored by European Union citizens though, as they are exempt of most of the paperwork asked from other foreigners.

Come to Rotterdam for the architecture, the museums, the nightlife, a refreshing boattrip on the Meuse or just some shopping.

Berlin is also perhaps one of the greenest cities in Europe: over 60% of its surface area is either a park or a river... it has even more bridges than Venice!

Berlin has an amazing number of sights, although it is not as centralized or small as other European cities. Sometimes the best things about it have nothing to do with landmarks: simply strolling along one of hundreds of charming streets complete with cafés or sipping a "Berliner Weisse mit Schuss (shot of either raspberry juice or other)" at a beach bar along one of the city's many rivers can be pleasurable enough. The Berliners you'll meet will often be friendly and extremely helpful, although you may also encounter the famous "Berliner Schnauze," a certain brusqueness that can seem rude.

After having seen these sights, stroll the narrow winding streets of the Barri Gòtic -- a medieval Gothic quarter full of interesting tapas bars and cafés. Check out Picasso’s old hangout, Els Quatre Gats , which has been renovated, but it hasn't lost its bohemian charm. Or head for the old Barceloneta section on the waterfront. This working-class area, which was always slightly rundown and scruffy-looking, is now packed with paella restaurants. The new beach area, which runs from Barceloneta to the Olympic village, is much cleaner than the old beach area. Although some people believe that it has been cleaned up considerably, it might be a wise idea to stay out of the water. Fortunately, the beach itself is already a feast for the eyes (and ears), with its huge and roaring waves.

Catalans are known for their independent spirit as well as their sense of humor. Salvador Dalí was a Catalan (and unfortunately for Catalans, he was also a Fascist and supporter of General Franco's regime) and his bizarre sense of humor is just one example of the regions endearing weirdness. Language is a BIG problem for the English-speaking in Barcelona and also in areas around the city. There are no signboards in English and if you do not speak Spanish (or preferably Catalan), you are better off with a phrase book to guide you around. Even in the majority of Barcelona hotels they do not speak English. It comes as a surprise because the vast majority of tourists are English and tourism is a big contributor to Barcelona's economy.

Spring is the best time to visit Barcelona, as you can expect a temperature of around around 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20ºC). During summer, it can get very hot and humid, about 86 degrees Fahrenheit (30ºC), and extremely crowded, due to the large number of tourists and numerous cultural events taking place in September. Barcelona can be as expensive as you want it to be. Barcelona is relatively rich, so prices are much higher than places elsewhere in Catalonia or Spain. Still, Barcelona restaurants are relatively cheap -- at lunch time you can find a two course meal and desert for $10-$13US (7-9€), and for an average Barcelona hotel, three meals and a night out, count on it costing some $225 US (145 Euro) for two persons.

Top Things to See and Do in Barcelona

Architecture: if you love architecture, Barcelona is the city indeed.

Roman period: Roman walls, 4 remaining columns of the Temple at Centre excursionista, Museu d'història de la Ciutat (walk underground through the roman past).

Gothic period: Santa Maria del Mar (best gothic church), Plaça del Rei, Saló del Tinell, Drassanes, Catedral, Santa Maria del Pi, Llotja de Barcelona, Hospital de la Santa Creu, streets within Barri Gòtic (gothic ward).

Pre-modernist and Modernist period: Gaudí's main works: Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Parc Güell, Palau Güell, Casa Vicens. Other modernist architects' masterpieces: Palau de la Música Catalana, Hospital de Sant Pau, Casa Ametller, Casa de les Punxes, Arc de Triompf i Parc de la Ciutadella, Plaça Reial, Passeig de Gràcia. Some of those were included in the World Heritage list.

Modern Period: Pabelló d'Alemanya (German Pavilion 1928 Universal Expo, a masterpiece of the modern architecture designed by Mies Van der Rohe), Pabelló de la República (GATPAC), Escola Tècnica Superior d'Arquitectura (Coderech), Macba ( Museu d'Art Contemporani , designed by Richard Meyer), Anella Olímpica (Olympic area, Isozaki, Correa, Calatrava...), Torre Agbar (the new symbol in town by Jean Nouvel), Mercat de Santa Caterina (Miralles-Tagliube), Tibidabo's communication tower (Norman Foster), Forum's Convention Center (Herzog & de Meuron).

Art and Museums

Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC) with the best Romanic paintings in the world. This museum preserves the wall frescoes of a great part of the Romanic churches in the Pyrenees ( els Pirineus ).

Museu Picasso: The museum is located in a medieval palace on Montcada Street, 15-23 in the Gothic area. Once inside you will discover a magnificent compilation of early Picasso paintings. Both oils and drawings displayed in this permanent collection are representative of the artist's formative years as well as later in his illustrious career. The entire collection of over 3,500 works include 24 masterpieces such as "Man in a Baret", "The Divan", "Margot or the Period of Waiting", and "Blanquita Suarez" just to name a few. Museu Picasso is a must-see in Barcelona.

Fundació Miró: Located in a good modern building from Sert, you'll find a wide sample of Joan Miró works.

Others: Centre d'Art Santa Mònica, Fundació Tàpies, Centre de Cultura Contemporània.

Best Walks

Barcelona's seashore walk: Departing from the Fòrum de les Cultures area, walk along Passeig Marítim, cross the Vila Olímpica, continue to la Barceloneta, follow el Moll de la Fusta to Colom monument. Best moments are at sunrise or at sunset. (3-4 km)

Les Rambles: From Plaça Catalunya, walk down to Colom, sit at a café and just watch the people go by. (500 m)

Barri Gòtic: Just keep your maps and guidebooks away, and lose yourself within the lovely old streets of el Barri Gòtic. Finish your walk taking a beer at la Plaça Reial (one of the nicest). (3-5-8 km, walk as long as you can)

El Raval: Submerge yourself in our little Karachi, just on the opposite side of les Rambles. Start at el Mercat de la Boqueria (traditional market), and lose yourself on the decadent streets of el Raval, try some shawarma, or some dhal in any Panjabi restaurant, and check how cosmopolitan is Barcelona (not as much as London or Amsterdam... but getting close). Take care about pickpocketing.

Passeig de Gràcia to Barri de Gràcia: From Plaça Catalunya walk up Passeig de Gràcia (the most elegant street in town with the most expensive shops) to the bohemian neighborhood of Gràcia. Just take a walk into the neighborhood and take a beer in any plaça (Plaça Rius i Taulet, Plaça del Diamant...).

Best City Views

From Montjuïc: Just go up to Palau Nacional (MNaC) at Montjuïc Mountain and enjoy the sunset over the city. If you are lucky (try on weekends), after the sunset you'll see the Magic Fountain Show.

From Tibidabo: The best views of Barcelona are from el Tibidabo. And old fashioned and decadent Atraction Park (but one of the top 5 in the world according to Lonely Planet), on the top of el Tibidabo. Yes that's our Corcovado...

From el Parc Güell: If you have not time enough to go to Tibidabo, you can get great views too, from Parc Güell.

Nightlife

Plaça Reial area . Take some beers at el Glaciar or el Sidecar, after that try at el Club 13 (until 03.00), and after that head to el Jamboree if you like hip-hop or el Karma if you prefer independent pop rock (until 06.00).

Say for instance, you are in search for an enjoyable night out on the town, the big problem lies in choosing what would be most to your liking from among all that Barcelona has to offer. In a nutshell, Barcelona nights is all about fun, fun, fun, and one can simply go insane just ticking off the choices on how to achieve it in one night. Even the most hedonistic man s standards for pleasure and enjoying the night away will be challenged in this great city!

El Raval is Barcelona's most diverse area with a mixture of cultures and atmospheres. It was much neglected until recently, but it is full of small, hip bars.

El Born and La Ribera , one of the trendiest areas to be in, combine the romanticism of the old city with the newly designed interiors of its numerous bars, clubs and restaurants. This area attracts couples and groups in their 30s looking for sophisticated, relaxing, and intimate bars.

Poblenou area : Take some beers at l'Ovella, and after that try Razzmatazz (one of the best clubs in town). Many popular bands, such as the Chemical Brothers, Massive Attack, Coldplay, Blur, and Oasis all played in this hall during their early tours.

Vila Olímpica area : For nice people, catalans say "ambient una mica més pijo". Try at Baja club or Catwalk.

Zona Alta area : Take your first beers at La Borsa (imported beers from worldwide), and after that go to a disco or club in the area. The top is Luz de Gas, where you´ll find people up to 50 y/old men trying to met 20y/old girls, and 40 y/old women trying the same with 20 y/old boys. If you want to meet rich socialites, this is the place. For the nicest people, "Ambient molt pijo".

For gay and lesbian: Try at El coño de mi prima (Eixample) or at Las Torres de Avila (Poble espanyol). Left Eixample is called Gayxample.

Beaches

From Forum to Barceloneta, they all are fine, but always crowded in summer. That's the only standing rule on Barcelona beaches, especially with its sunshiny weather all year round. This is one place where the beaches are teeming with non-stop action especially with the opening of the city to the sea -- a project first undertaken in the 1980s. The redeveloped seafront, from the Moll de la Fusta and the area around the Palau de Mar to the Rambla de Mar and the Olympic Port area, has become one of Barcelona 's most popular spaces for recreation and leisure.

The city is often referred to as the Paris of the east, and deserves this name. It bears some resemblance to Prague, but is larger and friendlier. The picturesque setting on two sides of the Danube, the nine connecting bridges, and the villas and public buildings from the fin-de-siècle era really make Budapest one of the most enjoyable cities in Europe.

Budapest is composed of three cities: Buda, and Obuda on the west side of the river looking over the much larger Pest on the opposite side. To simplify it for tourists, Obuda and Buda are often just refered to as Buda, the bourgeois section with its palaces and spas, and the more commercial area is known as Pest. At first, the hills of Buda were the safe core of the twin cities, but as Buda and Pest were united with Óbuda (Ancient Buda) the plains of Pest became the centre of the growing metropolis.

Today, the most famous landmark of Budapest is the Parliament building on the banks of the Danube. From a distance it looks a lot like the English Houses of Parliament, with Big Ben conspicuously absent. The best view of the Parliament can be had from Castle Hill, a Budapest highlight itself. This collection of palaces, churches and monuments has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is a must see for every tourist. Budapest has some very good museums as well, including the National Museum (Nemzeti Muzeum), the Museum of Fine Arts (Szepmuveszeti Muzeum), National Gallery (Nemzeti Galeria) and the Historical Museum of Budapest.

Budapest has become a very lively city, with many good restaurants and a nightlife scene you need to check out to believe. By day, you can roam the city, explore a museum, visit some churches, or take your pick of a dozen or so types of coffee in one of the cafés. By night you can have dinner at either a cheap or a fancy restaurant, go to the opera, and afterwards dance the night away.

Getting around Budapest is very simple due to BKV (Budapest Kozlekedesi Vallalat-Budapest transportation system). This system has busses, subways, trams, trolley's, urban trains running throughout the city and outer-skirts. If you would like to have more information on BKV, this public orginization hosts a site: www.bkv.hu .

Crime is not a big issue. Pickpocketing is the most common type of crime. To prevent this from happening to you, put all your valuable possesions in a belt bag, or on a neck bag. One more type of crime is taxi drivers ripping you off. Ways of avoiding this is to call the taxi before hand, making sure the taxi has his pay clock on, and asking for a receipt. One more way of avoiding this is using BKV.

But the place to start touring once you've left your first-rate Florence hotel for the day is the piazza, the square -- that wonderful Mediterranean oasis where you can spend hours sitting down, enjoying an espresso, and just people-watching. You'll likely start at the square in front of the train station and across from the bus station -- the places you arrive by airport bus or by train. Santa Maria Novella Church, run by the Dominicans, faces the square. To enter you'll have to go around the block walking beside the church to another, yes, square! It's Unità d'Italia Square. (Coffee and sweet shops are there.) You'll want to see inside the Church (admission charged). Gothic and Renaissance frescoes as well as Fra Lippi-designed stain glass windows are a feast for the eyes.

If you head back toward the square in front of the train station and bear right along the large street (Via Panzani), you're on your way to the square at the Duomo. Small storefront Florence restaurants beckon. But check the menu to be sure you haven't struck upon a pricey bistro! A short walk, 10 to 15 minutes, will bring you along side the Duomo. The Baptistry is the building in front of the Cathedral. There are no lines -- just walk up and look. Then turn around and look up at the church facade and bell tower. The entrance line forms along the cathedral steps. The square is filled with shops, and further along the side streets are women's fashion stores. If you walk to the left of the Baptistry across the square you'll come to a small mall area along with more Florence restaurants and coffee bars.

Among the other things you can't afford to miss are the Uffizi galleries, one of the best art museums in the world (tickets required), the Santo Spirito church, and the Old Bridge (Ponte Vecchio) with its must see shopping area -- another favorite Florence activity. The Academia with the original David is also not to be missed. To get a great overview of the city, head for Piazza Michelangelo in Oltrarno section of town (other side of River Arno) or farther up to the church of San Miniato.

Lovers of art will want to visit the hillside town of Fiesole, just outside Florence (you can go by bus, 20 minutes from the central bus station mentioned above). Besides the Roman ruins, the Church of St. Dominic features the stunning frescoes of Fra Angelico.

The surrounding areas of Florence have many things to offer to the visitor. You can explore this region for weeks -- even months, without getting bored. For this, Florence is the perfect starting point for day trips. Travel agents can book just about any Florence day trip for you. (Tip: An agency is on the far side of the Duomo Square.) One excellent day trip of note is that to Siena and San Gimignano.

Top Ten Things to Do in Florence

Duomo (Cathedral) – You can’t miss Duomo, even if you tried – the giant dome dominates the Florence skyline. Highlights include: Uccello’s mural to a 14th-century Captain, Brunelleschi’s dome (of course), and the remains of Santa Reparata. Piazza del Duomo, 17, +39 055 215380. http://www.duomofirenze.it

Giardino di Boboli (Bobili Gardens) – Although Boboli is an excellent place to “relax” after a full day of Florence activities, there is still much to see here -- so pace yourself. Highlights include: a sculpture gallery called La Grotta Grande, the Isolotto (island), Limonaia (1785 gardening shed), and Bacchus Fountain. Piazza Pitti, 1, Ph: +39 055 2388786. http://www.firenzemusei.it/00_english/boboli/index.html

Carpe Diem – This fine Italian restaurant serving up innovative cuisine features a spectacular terrace overlooking the city of Florence. It is one of the most popular restaurants in Florence during the hot summer months so get here early for lunch or dinner to avoid long waits. Via Giuseppe Mantellini 2b, Fiesole, +39 055 599595. Closed Monday

Galleria dell’Accademia (Academy Gallery) – Plan to spend at least half of the day at Galleria dell’Accademia, which features sculptures by Michelangelo: the Prisoners, the St. Matthew, and the statue of David. Via Ricasoli 58-60, 50122 Firenze, Ph: +39 055 2388609. http://www.polomuseale.firenze.it/accademia

Museo di Storia della Scienza (Institute and Museum of the History of Science) – Located in the 14th-century Palazzo Castellani, Museo di Storia della Scienza features several floors of galleries and the library of the Instituto di Storia della Scienza. Piazza dei Guidici, 1, Ph: +39 055 265311, 24 hour info. +39 055 293493. http://www.imss.fi.it

Palazzo Pitti (Pitti Palace) – Built in 1457, Palazzo Pitti consists of four museums and an art collection that is considered one of the best collections in the world. Located in the Galleria Palatina, Renaissance and baroque works of art from the Medici collection can be found including masterpieces by Van Dyck (Henrietta Maria, Charles I), Titian (Portrait of a Gentleman, Mary Magdalene), and Raphael (Madonna of the Chair). Piazza Pitti, +39 055 2388611. http://www.palazzopitti.it

Capella Brancacci (Brancacci Chapel) – This small chapel houses some of the most fascinating frescoes in Florence. Highlights include: Masaccio’s Tribute Money, Filippino Lippi’s St. Paul visits St. Peter in Prison, Masaccio’s Expulsion of Adam and Eve from Paradise, and St. Peter Heals the Sick (Masaccio). Capella Brancacci is located at Santa Maria del Carmine, Piazza del Carmine, ph: +39 055 2382195.

San Minato al Monte (St. Minias of the Mountain) – Located in walking distance from Central Florence is San Minato al Monte and an uphill climb you’ll never forget! High on a hill above Florence highlights such as the Cardinal of Portugal Chapel and Cappella del Crocifisso can be explored as well as beautiful architecture and design such as a marble façade, mosaics, an inlaid floor, and a wooden ceiling. San Minato al Monte is located off Viale Galileo Galilei and it’s free! +39 055 2342768.

Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) – This unique bridge is like no other. Ponte Vecchio (972 A.D.), the oldest of Florence’s six bridges, is more like a street than a bridge as it “houses” a wide variety of interesting shops that seem to hang right over Arno River. The shops have been a part of this bridge since the 12th century. Sights and highlights include: beautiful views of the Arno River (several panoramic terraces), the Bust of Cellini, an assortment of gold and jewelry shops, and Corridoio Vasariano. Ponte Vecchio is free to explore 24/7/365 and it is in the pedestrian zone.

Campanile (Bell Tower

) – The Bell Tower of the Duomo (1334-1359) reaches 279 feet into the sky and it is just under 20 feet lower than the Duomo. The 414 steps leading to the top of Campanile are difficult to climb, but well worth the effort. The views from the top are absolutely amazing. Reliefs by Pisano and della Robbia are an attraction here as well. Piazza del Duomo, +39 055 271071.