Wednesday, 30 June 2010

Serbia's Ten Wonderful Places to Visit

By Jonathan_Williams


Serbia is a country that once was a part of Yugoslavia, and it is situated in Southern Europe. It is bordered by Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Macedonia, and Romania. Like any other European countries, Serbia has a lot to offer its tourist population, and here are ten wonderful places that a visitor should visit once in Serbia.




1.) Palic



This is fast becoming known as a summer place and is a favorite summer resort. Here, you can see the lake and enjoy walks in Palic's baroque parks. Also, for the culture buff, you have the monuments to see as well as the Film Festival and the World Etno Music Festival.



2.) Staro Selo



In this area, you will get to see a 19th-century church that is made of wood and was built by Vujica Vulicevic. During that century, this church was an ingenious architecture as it can easily be dismantled once invaders like the Turks are in the area and rebuilt in another safer location. This is now considered as one of Serbia's national treasures.



3.) Guca Village



Once every year, this little village is host to the brass music festival or what is commonly called the Trubaci Festival. You will also enjoy the native dishes of Serbia here as well as partake in the excitements and the lively atmosphere of the festival. You will also get to hear beautiful orchestra music that showcases the trumpets.



4.) Zlatibor



This is a place that is famous for its mountain resorts. You can visit the towns and villages here like the Kraljeve Vode where you can have a good time as well as visit some historical museums. There are also ski resorts here located in Tornik and Ribnica, etc.



5.) Kapoanik National Park



There are so many accommodations that you can rent in this area if you want to stay here longer and explore the park more. It is also home to beautiful ski resorts. Its majestic scenery full of river gorges as well as a myriad variety of trees will be enough to take your breath away.



6.) Petrovaradin Fortress



History says that this fortress has never been overcome by any invader. Now, it houses a museum that showcases artifacts from the pre-historical era as well as modern artifacts. There is also an observatory and planetarium here that you can visit and enjoy.



7.) Sokobanja



So far, this is where most tourists go to as it is a popular spa town. You can also find plentiful accommodations here that have modern amenities. One of them is the Apartment Borici where you can find relaxation and some peace and quiet as you enjoy your stay.



8.) Belgrade Zoo



This zoo is located at the heart of the city of Belgrade, and it is also called Good Hope Garden. This is made more popular by serving as a nursery for baby animals that were left defenseless in the wild. Belgrade Zoo is home to about 2000 animals aside from the domestic animals that it also houses.



9.) Mediana



If you are a history buff, then you should not miss going to Mediana as this is a very historical place because this is the birthplace of Constantine the Great. Now, you will see here the ruins of the imperial palace of the Naissus era as well as other luxury villas. Marvel at their beautiful mosaic floors and the ingenuity of Roman bathrooms.



10.) Skull Tower



This is truly a sight to behold as this tower contains 952 skulls of Serbian rebel armies. They were killed during the early 1800 revolution against the Ottoman Empire. As a warning, the rebels' skulls were mounted on top of the tower to dissuade other would-be rebels.



Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv] Visit [http://www.destinationguide.tv/serbia] to view or share Serbia travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv/serbia]



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Williams

Tuesday, 29 June 2010

The Best Places to Stop When You Travel to Italy

By Luciano_Fellini

The people who live there call it The Belapese, Beautiful Country, and while they may be biased, the Italians certainly know what they are talking about. Lovers of fashion, art and food alike will find something to swoon for when they get to Italy. There is so much to see that many people need to return more than once, but first time visitors should not miss these important Italian attractions.




When in Rome, it is difficult to miss The Trevi Fountain, the largest and most famous fountain in the entire city. Not only is it beautiful, but it is the center piece for one of Italy's most romantic customs. Legend says that if someone throws one coin over their shoulder into the fountain, they are sure to return to Rome someday. Two coins means they will fall in love with an Italian and three coins means they will marry them.



It is not necessary to be Catholic in order to appreciate a visit to The Vatican in Rome. The Vatican Museums are home to one of the world's largest and most impressive art collections. After touring the collection, visitors get to view Michelangelo's infamous painting on the ceiling of The Sistine Chapel.



While some of Italy's most iconic sights are in Rome, there is much to see in the other beautiful areas of the country. Florence is perhaps the loveliest city in all of Italy and is home to the renowned sculpture, David, by Michelangelo. Not only does it feature beautiful art, but it is home to many of the fashion world's top names, such as Gucci and Ferragamo.



The famed Leaning Tower is just one of the reasons that people flock to the city of Pisa. The city is home to many of Italy's finest universities, so it is always abuzz with students going to and from class. Visitors will often see them studying in the Piazza dei Miracoli, one of Italy's most gorgeous squares.



When people plan a getaway to Italy, they usually imagine themselves being serenaded by a gondolier while cruising the waterways of Venice. This is one of the most relaxing and romantic ways to explore the city, which is full of beautiful buildings and works of art. In fact, Venice has the distinction of housing more artistic masterpieces per square kilometer than any other city in the world.



There is no denying the powerful beauty of Italy and the attraction it holds for lovers of fashion, food, architecture and art. The Italian people love their country so dearly, they are thrilled to show visitors around, making the entire experience even more magical. When planning to travel in Italy, be sure not to miss these beautiful cities and infamous landmarks.



Luciano Fellini is a travel writer living in Rome. To learn more about travel in Italy stop by Discover Beautiful Places for more articles like this.



Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Luciano_Fellini

Monday, 28 June 2010

Why is the Baltic Sea Worth it to Visit?

By Kamila_Kaczmarczyk

Holidays by the Baltic Sea in Poland are popular among both Polish and European tourists. However the Baltic Sea does not remind of warm, blue seas on the south of Europe at all (it is much colder and wild because of strong winds). You simply can not resist its charm. Try it by yourself...




Sandy beaches and history



Great advantage of Polish seaside are over 700 km long beaches that belong to the most beautiful in whole Europe. The seaside is also appreciated for specific microclimate, rich in iodine, because of which the towns located alongside the sea are full of popular in Poland sanatories, different health resorts and hotels. Beaches in Poland are sandy, July and August are the best months for sunbathing. The summer sees the Polish seaside comes to life and beach resorts attract many holidaymakers searching for sun and relaxation. Holiday resorts on the Baltic Sea also boast historically captivating cities, great natural attractions, and a relaxed maritime climate. And, least but not last reason, why it is worth to visit and what the tourists love Polish Seaside for: impressive hugeness and majesty of the sea causes an unique feeling of amazement and respect for the nature. The cities located here: Gdansk, Hel, Gdynia, Sopot remember dates of the greatest events in Polish and European history (for instance: World War The Second, Revolution of "Solidarity", to name just two of them).



Nature and culture



It is common for all people who visited Polish Seaside to claim that this place is magical. Some mysterious atmosphere causes that we can not wait to see another sunset, want to breathe deeply the fresh air and gloat the local cuisine with many sophisticated fish species.



Polish Seaside offers the tourists not only traditional "3xS" but also many other attractions. The most interesting areas are two National Parks: "Wolinski", located on the Wolin Island with natural cliffs, which contains bison reserve, and "Slowinski", with lakes and unique, movable dunes. Along the seaside there are many attractive, unique touristic points (like: lighthouses in Czolpin and Ustka). Small towns are perfect places for those who wish to rest far away from the crowds. For the amateurs of the history and culture, on the other hand, Gdansk is the best place, where they can explore both of them. Museums, historical points (shipyards, places of fights, monuments etc.), libraries and Polish-German agreement centers are available for everybody, regardless the language and culture.



If you are interested in holiday on Polish Seaside, you might be also interested in reading about cheap flights to Poland and Polish cities.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kamila_Kaczmarczyk

Sunday, 27 June 2010

Holiday & Travel Guide For Zante (Zakynthos) Greece

By Trevor_Butler

Near the west coast of Greece, in the Ionian sea, lies the island of Zakynthos, a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty spots, wildlife and variety of things to do.




What is Zante like?



Zante is home to many beaches, but also has stunning greenery everywhere and a mountainous west side, where there are tall white cliffs towering over the beautiful clear oceans. Zante offers a choice of several main towns which adopt a Mediterranean lifestyle and is a perfect family destination because of its varied nature. However, popular with groups of young adults too, Zante has plenty of nightlife and clubs which play a variety of music all night, catering to everyone's taste.



Main towns



Laganas is one of the places to head to if you want a popular tourist centre. Capitalising on partying and nightlife, there are also many traditional bars and restaurants for the family. There is a long beach which can be used in the daytime to make sure that there is always something to do. South of Laganas beaches is home to Loggerhead turtles, an endangered species, and special boat rides are often offered from this area for the once in a life time experience of seeing them in the wild. There are no watersports in most of this area in the summer months in order to protect the turtle eggs.



Of course, the capital of the island, Zante Town, which has the same name as the island itself, is a popular place to visit. The main road is a Marina, hosting Solomos Square and St. Markos Square at one end and the Church of St. Dennis (Saint Dionysios) at the other. If you are staying near here and want to experience the best nightlife, be sure to take an excursion to the local town of Argassi, a hub of clubs and bars.



Alykes is the place to go if you want a more beach orientated holiday. On the North East side of Zante, it provides watersports and great stretches of golden sand.



Things to do



It is worthwhile taking a daily cruise around the island, with stunning views, it is definitely not a day wasted and should be experienced by everyone. Take these trips from Zante Town (Zakynthos): being on the waterfront, there are ferry booking offices along this strip, also offering trips to the mainland. With a more cultural feel, the capital also hosts museums, libraries and churches, all open to the public and hosting stunning post-Byzantine art amongst many other things for you to see.



If you hire a car, the roads are easy to navigate. A national driving licence from an EU country is all you should need to get a car and then you can drive to the Western mountain towns. With more secluded beaches and a quieter way of life, these can be a great break away from the main tourist buzz. Try trekking in this region too if you do not wish to hire transport.



On the beaches, try the variety of watersports, and you can also scuba dive into hidden underwater caves or snorkel to see some marine life.



In general, there is a real variety in Zante: from bars and clubs, to beach fun, to tours to admire the beautiful wildlife and scenery, there is something for everyone. Be aware that it is a region for Mosquitoes though, so make sure you pack insect repellent.



Happy Holidays!



Trevor Butler, co-founder and owner of holidayholiday.co.uk, specialists in direct holidays and last minute holidays worldwide.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trevor_Butler

Friday, 25 June 2010

Montenegro National Parks - Must-See Places in Montenegro

By Isabella_Olsen

Montenegro is the newest country in the world after declaring independence in 2006. In spite of this, though, Montenegro offers a rich history and an interesting culture. It has many beautiful attractions, as well, which include four spectacular Montenegro national parks.




The Durmitor National Park is the largest of all the Montenegro national parks, covering an area of roughly 39,000 hectares.



Established in 1952, the park is the site of 18 glacial lakes, the biggest of which is the Crno Lake or Black Lake, as well as blue rivers, deep canyon valleys and impressive mountains. There are various necropolises, medieval monuments and old churches within the park, too.



Because of this, the Durmitor National Park has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites - one of only two in Montenegro. It is the most popular national park in the country, as well, providing tourists with opportunities to go horseback riding, rafting, kayaking and hiking.



The Skadar Lake National Park has a large area, too. In fact, the Skadar Lake (also known as Lake Scutari) can reach up to 530 square kilometres at times, depending on its water level, making it the biggest lake in the Balkan peninsula. Of all the Montenegro national parks, the Skadar Lake National Park is the one most known a birdwatcher's paradise since it is home to many swamp birds, including the rare Dalmatian pelican, which is also the symbol of the park.



Aside from birdwatching, the park is also a great place for windsurfing and spelunking. It can provide a great gastronomic experience, too, since the towns of Virpazar and Rijeka Crnojevica, which are famous for their restaurants, and the vineyard of Crmnica can be found on the lakeshore.



You can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience within the Lovcen National Park, too, particularly in Njegusi Village, which manufactures the best ham and cheese in the country. What sets this park apart from other Montenegro national parks, though, is the fact that it is the site of the Njegos Mausoleum, one of the most important cultural monuments in Montenegro and the masterpiece of Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic.



Finally, there is the Biogradska Gora National Park. Although the smallest, it is by no means the least of the Montenegro national parks. In fact, it is just as popular because of the developed tourist facilities around Biogradska Lake. It also contains a 1,600-hectare rainforest - one of only three remaining rainforests in all of Europe.



Indeed, these Montenegro national parks are the gems of Montenegro, and are certainly great places for holidays. So whether you want to have an exciting adventure or just get away from all the hustle and bustle of work and city life, don't forget to consider Montenegro as one of the destinations for your next vacation.



Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including Montenegro, by car. To book your hire car Montenegro or learn more about cheap car rental worldwide, visit http://www.zencarhire.com./



Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Isabella_Olsen

Thursday, 24 June 2010

Travel the Albanian Coast With Pleasure

By Wasim_Ahmad


Albania is just a small country on the southeast of Adriatic Sea. Though small, it has a big story to tell about its past. Julius Caesar once passed by Albania when he went on a refuge with his army. Albania also suffered many years of dictatorship.




Traveling to Albania is a good way to experience a Mediterranean way of life that is usually just often read in books. This small country is led with eclectic religion and lifestyle among the settlers. And best of all, Albania is gifted with beautiful landscapes unseen anywhere else in the world.



It is a poor country and most travelers have not heard of this place. But Albania is fast picking up its tourism to showcase their beauty to the whole world. Never mind that their infrastructure badly needs to be uplifted. It will soon improve when it has gained the capital it needs. The more important thing is that Albania richly deserves to be listed in the top ten hottest tourist spots. If you come over, you will see for yourself the breathtaking reasons.



Probably the best thing to see here is their magnificent coast. The largest portion of the Albania Coast occupies the Adriatic Sea. And many beautiful beaches surround it. The Velipoja and Shen Gjini are two main target beaches of the people in northern Albania.



The "Durres and Golem Beach" is the biggest beach in the place. it never fails to gather a crowd. Other beaches at the tourism developing process are the Divjaka, Seman in Fier and Old Beach of Vlora. These beaches are very popular because it has the highest quality of sand beaches in Albania. The Divjaka has an eco system which adds more attraction.



The Albania Coast also has wide range of lagoons. Karavasta is the most famous here. This is the only lagoon in Albania declared as a National Park. At present, this lagoon is under the protection of the group called the RAMSAR.



You can also find the Ionian Coast here. It has great landscape that visitors would love to see. They also have small gritty beaches where their visitors can relax. This coast provides wide possibilities of diving activities. Their beaches that are famous for diving are Jali, Palasa, Dhermi, Saranda and many more.



If the Ionian Coast is good for diving opportunities, the Albanian coast offers wide range of sport activities. They offer activities like swimming, sailing, and strolling. Another remarkable sport in this coast is the beach volley. This coast is a part of the other places that organizes international activities, like the Beach Valley International Tournament. There are also underwater activities like diving or snorkeling.



The Cape of Lagji and Cape of Rodon are two places in Peninsula of Karaburun offering great underwater diving. The island of Sazan and beach of Dhermi also offers such activities. These places have wrecked ships, flora and fauna, corals and many more underwater lives.



The seaside of the coast has many fishing possibilities to offer. The fishing activities are usually found in the river of Vjosa. Though there are other places in the Albania Coast that offers fishing, this river is the first and for most places for fishing.



The best months to travel to Albania are May, June and September. Warm days come in September. Visitors can find lots of fruits and vegetables freshly harvested during this month. November to March is winter, and therefore the ski season.



The cities in Albania can offer your most unforgettable summer in your life. During the summer days, the warmness that is felt in the day is the same coolness that is felt in the night.



Travel to Albania now and experience the nice place and cheap prices that they offer you.



For more information on Luxury Albanian Hotels and Albanian Airport Hotels please visit our website.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wasim_Ahmad

Wednesday, 23 June 2010

Top Ways to Travel Safely in Croatia

By Simons_Pallister

Croatia is a wonderful country to visit year round. There are many things to do in Croatia like seeing the Ancient City Walls, the Island of Lokrum and the scenic European Route E65. Once you are there, you will be able to find many adventure tours that will allow you to see an entirely different side of Croatia. There are also a myriad of ethnic foods that you can try. You may want to go on a hike afterwards in one of the scenic routes or simply wander the beautiful streets. However, when you visit Croatia, you should make sure that you are travelling with international travel insurance for many reasons.




Medical Insurance for Travellers in Croatia



No one wants to think that they may get hurt while away on vacation, but it can happen. If you are going to be doing activities that you would not normally do or are in unfamiliar places then medical insurance will save you from an extreme financial debt upon your return trip, should you fall ill or be hurt. If you are walking around in parts of Croatia that are "off the beaten track", you should know that there are areas that have unexploded landmines. Although it is very unlikely that you may become hurt by one, this is just one of the unexpected scenarios that you could come across while visiting Croatia.



Insurance for Personal Belongings in Croatia



Sometimes your medical policy may cover your personal effects abroad but in case it only covers you partially, you should make sure you policy covers your personal items. Also, this is not the only reason why this insurance is necessary. When you are travelling around in Croatia, you may incur some sort of damage to your baggage and in a very unlikely event, your personal belongings may be stolen during transport. If this is the case, then travel insurance will help to replace stolen or damaged items.



Travel Insurance for Delayed or Cancelled Plans in Croatia



It is not uncommon when travelling to endure delays of some type. Croatia is a country in development which means that not all of the services run like clockwork. Depending on the weather and the circumstances it is not unusual for flights to be delayed or cancelled in Croatia. When this happens, you may end up having to spend a lot of money replacing car rentals, hotel reservations and even plane tickets. But if you have travel insurance, then you will be able to recuperate your losses very easily.



Comparing Online International Travel Insurance



The best way to find international travel insurance for visiting Croatia on holiday is by going online. You will find the best international travel insurance on the internet by comparing prices and seeing which will suit your specific travel needs.



Southern Cross Travel Insurance (SCTI) has over 25 years experience as a travel insurance specialist with a comprehensive portfolio of insurance packages for Australians travelling overseas.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simons_Pallister

Tuesday, 22 June 2010

Travel Accommodations in Kharkov Ukraine - What to Expect From Rented Apartments

By Julia_Ramyalg

Ten years ago nobody knew about such country as Ukraine, now many foreign people come here. Some of them come here for business, others in search of their pretty Russian and Ukrainian brides, others are members of charity and educational organizations, but whatever the reasons for their visits are they all need the place to stay. As we all know - the demand increases the offer. If ten years ago the only place where a foreigner could safely stay was Kharkov hotel Mir, now there are many new Kharkov hotels and many Kharkiv apartments for rent.




If you decide to come to Kharkov in hot season such are holiday seasons - December, January, February, and also September, October, make sure to your accommodation in Kharkov at least two weeks prior to your visit. In general it is better to book your travel beforehand, as Ukraine is becoming more and more popular destinations for air travel companies, and flights to Kharkov may be quite difficult to book, if you do it the last moment.



Every year more and more apartments in the downtown of Kharkov are given for rent. All the apartments for rent have good furniture, redecorations of Euro standards, modern electrical appliances, so they are convenient and relatively not expensive for your stay. You may find an accommodation for rent that will satisfy your demands either economy class 1 room apartment or luxury 3 room apartment with king size bed, dish washing machine, satellite TV and Internet.



Who knows what the reason for such popularity is, maybe it is unforgettable beauty of Ukrainian brides, maybe possibilities for making quick money, maybe just friendliness of Ukrainian people, but anyway Ukraine is becoming very popular.



Apartment Kharkov is an online resource for booking comfortable Kharkov apartments to rent.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julia_Ramyalg

Monday, 21 June 2010

Things You Need To Know Planning Trip To Ukraine

By Marina_Pristinskaya

Your planned trip becomes true! You go to Ukraine. It seems exiting and anticipating experience isn't it. Some thing you have to know, otherwise your trip can be spoiled and you will come in deep stress.




1. There is should be a person who meets you at the airport. It helps you to avoid problems, worrying and misunderstanding. Having an assistant will be helpful and be easy in your mind. If you don't speak Russian, it's most likely to have an interpreter who will assist you.



2. You should know an address where you're going to stay. At the airport you'll be given a document where you must put it down even if the address changes later.



3. You need to think about place to stay beforehand! Hotels are unreasonably expensive and not really cozy. The cheapest so-so room is about 100 bucks in cities like Kiev, Kharkov, Dnepropetrovsk, Odessa. Another option is rent an apartment for time you stay in Ukraine. It is cheaper and more comfortable. But if you didn't see this apartment before, make sure that while you are looking at it, the taxi is waiting for you, because very possible you'll want to see more apartments to choose. Every apartment should at least have cold and HOT water, new sheets (two sets), clean fresh towels, a bar of soap, matches, dishes, salt, sugar.



4. Remember that you can bring to Ukraine declared goods (such as jewelry, technical appliances, etc.) for the total cost of 200 euros. If their cost is more, you'll have to pay a fee. You can bring a phone and a laptop, a camera with you without paying for it. If you have new technical appliances, make them look used: take them out of box, make sure there's no price on them, otherwise the tax is required.



5. I know it's not fair but pretty often people would take more money from the foreigners, so let your assistant or interpreter make bargain about prices.



Hope this tips will be of assistance to you to shun inconveniences and totally enjoy your vocation. Welcome.



Discover Ukraine Network - travel to Ukraine and establish connections with Ukrainian people http://www.discover-ua.com.ua/



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marina_Pristinskaya

Friday, 18 June 2010

Cuba Nature Travel - Hanabanilla Mountain Paradise

By Matthew_Barker

The Hanabanilla Waterfall (Hanabanilla is an aborigine name interpreted as a small gold basket) is the biggest of its type in Cuba, located in the Siguanea valley, in the heart of the Guamuhaya Massif or the Escambray Mountains. At 364 meters above sea level, it's the only intermountain lake in Cuba, and one of the most beautiful and captivating spots in the whole island.




The lake (actually a reservoir seeming to be a natural lake) has a water mirror surrounding it, approximately 15 square kilometers and 30 or 40 meters deep. Fed by three rivers: Río Negro, Río Hanabanilla, and Río Guanayara, and with a storage capacity of around 300 million cubic meters, Hanabanilla is the third largest lake in the country used for recreational purposes and as a major water supply, and feeds the biggest hydroelectric station in Cuba.



The Hanabanilla Hotel is located over a dam. It has around 125 rooms, a cafeteria, a restaurant, and a multipurpose sport hall. Additionally, the complex includes a bar, a grill, a party hall, a disco, a swimming pool, game halls, and the availability of nautical sports. The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, trout, and other fish, and there are plenty of wild duck, quail, pheasant and other game birds. Catch and release fishing is popular, with the biggest specimens of largemouth bass in Cuba caught in the lake.



The whole area is a natural reserve with extraordinary views and conditions to admire the Cuban flora and fauna. Bird watching is particularly popular of such species as the "tocororos" (Cuba national bird), royal boatbuilders, parrots, and ducks, among other endemic birds inhabiting the area. From the hotel, numerous excursions are organized throughout the rivers and paths of the area to appreciate the surrounding nature.



"Un reto a la Loma Atalaya" (challenging Atalaya mountain) is one of the exceptional hiking routes available, in which you walk through open extensions with exclusive sights. At the same time it gives you the opportunity to exchange with farmers and peasants of the area, and learn about their habits, customs, and traditions.



There is also the attractive excursion to Río Negro, also known as "El Mirador" (The lookout). This place can be reached after a charming boat tour along the river from the hotel. On the way, attentive passengers can admire caves, grottos, intricate houses, the school boats transporting students, and they get familiar with the surrounding environment and the life of the locals. The trip ends in the Río Negro restaurant, with exquisite Creole food and a pure coffee, extracted from that very mountain.



Another two walks are related to Río Negro. "La Colicambiada", one of the most complete excursions, begins in the touristic resort, includes boat transfer at the beginning and the end of the trip, a visit with locals, and a soak in the Arroyo Trinitario Waterfall, one the most paradisiacal places in all the area. The other one, "La Ribera", takes place in a similar environment, but in an opposite direction. Of course, it also has its uniqueness since every corner of the Escambray has its own charm.



Legends play an important role here as well since some associate the name of Siguanea to one of the daughters of the aborigine Chief, Arimao, a leader within the resistance against the Spaniards. The elders assure that the Indian figure appears reflected in the water in times of floods. The construction of the reservoir and hydroelectric station necessitated the flooding of large sections of the Siguanea Valley. Under the flooded sections are entire towns, including a cathedral and the local cemetery. Locals say that as the water of the river was growing sharply, the church bells never stopped tolling. Even today they claim that during the anniversary of the flooding, the church bells can still be heard from the bottom of the lake.



This guide to visiting Hanabanilla in Cuba's Escambray Mountains was written by a Cuba travel expert from Cuba For Less, a specialist in fully customizable Cuba vacations.



Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Barker

Thursday, 17 June 2010

Five Reasons to Visit Austria

By Isabella_Olsen

Are you planning to make a trip to Europe soon? If so, here are just five of dozens of great reasons to visit Austria, a country overflowing with culture and spectacular scenery.




1. The Capital of Classical Music



Mozart, Haydn, Schubert, Strauss, Beethoven - these are just some of the famous classical composers who were born or lived in Austria, particularly Vienna, which is why it comes as no surprise that Vienna has earned the designation of being the world's Capital of Classical Music. Here, you can listen to their compositions played by one of the world's best orchestras, the Vienna Philharmonic, the same orchestra they once collaborated with, or easily watch a world-class opera.



Aside from Vienna's concert halls, you can also listen to classical music while watching the Lipizzaner horses from the Spanish Riding School perform dressage at one of the halls of the Hofburg Palace when you visit Austria, or attend mass at its medieval chapel on a Sunday to hear the angelic voices of the famous Vienna Boys' Choir. There are many classical music festivals all over Austria, too, like the Mozart Festival in Salzburg, the Bregenz Festival and the Schubert Festival in Voralberg.



Indeed, you won't find a shortage of classical music in Vienna or anywhere in Austria when you come visit. You can hear other types of music, though, especially if you attend one of the sparkling balls held during the months of January and February. These months are considered Austria's ball season so dress up, put on your dancing shoes and have a ball. Don't worry about having to go home at midnight since the balls last until dawn and don't fret, too, if you don't know how to dance. There is no shortage of dancing schools in Austria, either. After all, Austria is not just the cradle of classical music, but also the birthplace of the waltz.



2. The Austrian Alps



Austria also has its share of natural attractions, mainly the Austrian Alps. Located in upper Austria, this sparkling mountain range offers breathtaking views of diverse natural landscapes from snow-capped mountains to sweeping valleys and glittering lakes, and is also a great spot for various sports and recreational activities such as hiking, hang-gliding, cycling and kayaking in summer and skiing in winter. There are also many charming villages you can visit where you can learn yodelling from the locals, and don't forget to make a stop in the Tirol Valley, particularly Innsbruck, one of the most attractive cities in Austria.



3. Architectural Gems



Aside from its natural attractions, you will see many man-made wonders when you visit Austria, which include medieval grand palaces like the Hofburg Imperial Palace and Schonbrunn Palace, where the Habsburgs once lived, the Belvedere Palace and Arstetten Castle, as well as cutting-edge modern architecture like the Kunsthaus Graz and the stations on the Tirol railway. You will also find many interesting monasteries, like the St. Peter Abbey in Salzburg. In fact, Salzburg has many fascinating examples of Baroque architecture for you to enjoy.



4. The Sound of Music



The Baroque gems in its World Heritage Old Town are not the only reason why tourists come to Salzburg, though. In fact, a large percentage of tourists visit Austria and Salzburg, in particular, to retrace the steps of the Von Trapp family from the well-loved Sound of Music film and musical. Take a picture in front of the Mirabell Gardens where the famous Do-re-mi scene was filmed, take a stroll on the banks of the lake of Leopoldskron Castle, then visit the Nonnberg Abbey, one of the oldest abbeys in Austria where Maria was a novice. Don't forget to drop by the Mondsee Church as well, where Maria and Captain von Trapp got married in the film, or the village of St. Gilgen where Maria sings her first lines.



5. Austrian Cuisine



Crisp apple strudel is an Austrian delicacy mentioned in 'The Sound of Music', and is easy to find in restaurants once you visit Austria. Indeed, Austrian cuisine may not be one of the most popular in the world, but it definitely has its own distinct great taste with Italian, German and Hungarian influences. Aside from apple strudel, other notable Austrian specialties include tafelspitz (boiled beef served with apple sauce), kaiserschmarrn (fluffy pancakes), sachertorte (chocolate cake with apricot filling) and Linzertorte (red currant pie), considered the oldest cake in the world. For drinks, enjoy a glass of excellent Austrian wine or a cup of Viennese coffee or hot chocolate.



Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including Austria. Isabelle lives in Nerja Spain and runs a Nerja apartment rental website. Why not visit Nerja-Holiday-Rentals.net and check out the great deals on Nerja apartments and Nerja Villas today.



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Wednesday, 16 June 2010

Romanian Castles - Must-See Attractions on Your Trip to Romania

By Isabella Olsen

Romania is a country with a rich medieval heritage, as well as a land of awe-inspiring architecture. Each year, many tourists book a trip to Romania to see the ancient houses along the streets of Sibiu, the picturesque monasteries in Bucovina and of course, the magnificent Romanian castles towering over Transylvania and its neighboring cities.




Indeed, the Romanian castles are attractions worth seeing for anyone planning a trip to Romania. Dating back to as far as the 13th century, these imposing structures used to be the homes of Saxon nobility - a fact attested to by their luxurious interiors and austere defenses. Because of this, some of them have also been considered as World Heritage Sites.



One such castle is the Calnic Castle or Calnic Fortified Church located near Sibiu. Built by Count Chyl de Kelling during the 13th century, this castle has survived many sieges from the Ottoman empire, probably because of its high walls and defensive towers, including the Siegfried Tower. The firing windows of the five-storey Siegfried tower are noticeable even from afar, making it truly a historical landmark.



The most popular among the Romanian castles, though, is the Bran Castle in Brasov, which is also a national monument. Its beautiful turrets and majestic walls make it a must-see for anyone on a trip to Romania, although most of its fame comes from its nickname - Dracula's Castle - and the mysterious legends that go with it. While the legend may never be proved, the rumor that Vlad Tepes used to live there is enough to lure flocks of tourists every year.



Another popular Romanian castle is the Corvinesti Castle, the former residence of Prince Iancu, one of Romania's most famous rulers. Located in Hunedoara, it is considered as the country's greatest, particularly because of its impressive drawbridge, vast halls and more than 50 chambers decorated with medieval art.



The Peles Castle in Sinaia is also one of the most enchanting Romanian castles, as well, as one of the most magnificent castles in all of Europe. It is also the first European castle to be electrically lit. Built in the 18th century, Peles Castle is an outstanding example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and consists of 170 lavishly furnished rooms, although only 35 are open to the public.



Although not technically one of the Romanian castles, the Palace of Culture in Iasi also deserves some attention on your trip to Romania. It is one of the largest buildings in Romania and is home to four different museums: The Museum of Art, The Museum of Science and Technology, The Museum of History and The Museum of Ethnography.



You can also visit the Fagaras Castle, although it has been reduced to a shadow of its former glory, as well as the Valea Viilor Fortress and Mogosoaia Palace. Don't forget the other minor Romanian castles and fortresses, too. Although smaller and relatively unknown, they can still make your trip to Romania complete and truly memorable.



Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including Romania, by car. To book your rental car Romania or learn more about cheap car rental worldwide, visit http://www.zencarhire.com/.



Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Isabella_Olsen

Tuesday, 15 June 2010

Warsaw, Poland

By Hannah Rollmaker

The country of Poland is a fascinating country for you to visit. You will find the rich history of this country permeating its very culture and daily living. Among the numerous cities and towns of this country that you can choose to visit you will find Warsaw to be an interesting place to visit. The city of Warsaw is the capital of the country and the largest city in the country. You will find that Warsaw is situated near the Vistula River. The Carpathian Mountains are about 300 kilometers away from the city while the Baltic Sea is about 360 kilometers away.




You find that Warsaw is a delightful city to stay in while you are on vacation. Here you will be able to enjoy the many amenities of modern life such as a variety of shopping, nightlife and dining in fine restaurants where you can savor delicious tasting food. You will find that while Warsaw is a cosmopolitan city there are any number of parks and public gardens for you to visit and relax in. Of these you might enjoy visiting the Saxon Garden.



This public park was created in the late 17th century as a place where the public to visit and enjoy not just the beauty of the park but also being close to nature. Of the many parks that you will be able to find while you are in Warsaw, the Saxon Garden is the oldest public park to be found in the city. As you wander around the garden you will be able to see many beautifully designed ponds, fountains and statues which enhance the beauty of this public garden. After you have explored and relaxed in the Saxon Garden to your heart's content the next place that you might like to visit is that of the Warsaw Zoo.



Here in this zoo you will be able to look at a number of animals from all corners of the world. Of the 500 species which are residents of this zoo you will find some which are unique and bound to catch your attention. The founding of this zoo began during the 17th century when it was created as a private menagerie. In 1928 the Warsaw Zoo began is official life as a zoo where animals could not only be observed in close quarters but also have a safe home to live and breed without fear of being killed.



In addition to visiting the parks, public gardens and zoos of Warsaw you may enjoy seeing some of the history and culture of this beautiful place. One of the best ways to accomplish this is to visit one of the city's many fine museums. Some of the museums that you might want to visit are the Museum of the Polish Army, the Museum of Posters - which is the first of its kind in the world - the museum of Hunting and Riding as well as the National Museum. Altogether you will have a choice of 60 different museums that you can visit. At these venues you will be able to see and learn about the history of Warsaw and Poland in an entirely new manner.



As you explore Warsaw you will find that in addition to these great places listed above you have many other places that you can explore. From all of these interesting places you will be able to enjoy the beauty and richness of life that is Warsaw.



Discover your next hotel in Warsaw or select somewhere to stay from these Warsaw hotels



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Monday, 14 June 2010

Spending Summer Holidays in Latvia

By Isabella Olsen

With its captivating scenery, Latvia is a great destination all year round. It is particularly magical during summer, though. During this time, Latvia offers very long days (up to twenty hours) of partying on white sandy beaches, swimming in the Baltic Sea and hiking across lush forests - all reasons to spend your summer holidays in Latvia.




Latvia has one of the longest sandy beaches in Europe, so start your summer holidays by spending some time there. Head out to Jurmula, the country's premier coastal resort just beside Riga, where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing, or relax while enjoying breathtaking views at Cape Kolka.



The city of Liepaja has alluring beaches, too, although it is more popular for its party scene. The third largest city in Latvia, Liepaja plays host to the country's annual rock festival and largest beach party, so make sure you stop by for a night of dancing and mingling with the local crowd during your summer holidays in Latvia.



For another way of experiencing the outdoors, visit the Gauja National Park, the largest and oldest national park in Latvia. There are many hiking and cycling trails in the park, as well as interesting wildlife and rock formations. You can go on a canoe ride, too, and even camp for the night.



The weather is great for touring, too, so spend some time during your summer holidays in Latvia to take a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Riga while admiring the Art Nouveau architecture or go to Sigulda and take a tour of some old castles. The Turaida Castle is one of the best castles in Latvia, which was built in 1214 and restored in the 1970s.



There are also several summer festivals you can attend while in Latvia. The biggest festival is the Jani festival, which is a public holiday in Latvia celebrating the summer solstice. During the Jani festival, there are bonfires and flea markets. It is also the local tradition to wear wreaths and pick herbs.



The Cesis festival is another large summer festival held in the town of Cesis in August. To commemorate the town's medieval heritage, there are shows with medieval knights. There are also classical concerts and operas, as well as various arts exhibits.



Indeed, there are many ways to have fun during your summer holidays in Latvia so that no matter what you do or where you are in Latvia, you're sure to have a summer you'll never forget.



Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including Latvia, by car. To book your car hire Latvia or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit http://www.zencarhire.com/.



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Monday, 7 June 2010

Ten Essential Things to Do When You Visit Lithuania

By Jonathan Williams

If you are looking for a place where you can just chill, relax and be laid back, then the place for you to go is Lithuania. Unlike other foreign countries, Lithuania doesn't offer much in terms of archaeological pleasure. It makes up for this lack, however, through the visual pleasures you can find within the country.




1.) Vilnius



Vilnius is actually the capital city of Lithuania and the first place you might want to go to if you are in search of excellent shopping centers. Because Vilnius is the capital city, it also follows that it is a commercial and industrial port. As such, you can find the best local buys in here.



2.) Curonian Spit



The Curonian Spit is actually a large area that covers four settlements. More than that, however, it is the best place to enjoy nature in Lithuania. In here, you can smell the fresh smell of pine trees as well as the aroma of the outdoors, and you can do various outdoor activities in here such as skiing in the summer and winter.



3.) Hills of Crosses



Portrayed in numerous art paintings, the Hills of Crosses is actually a hillock where approximately thousands of crosses can be found. It is unclear as to how the hill became a place for planting crosses. But since early times, the Hills of Crosses has been a place where crosses of all sizes and shapes can be found.



4.) Druskininkai



The best place to go during the summer is in Druskininka, where mineral streams and summer activities are abundant. The mineral streams in the place are said to possess curative characteristics. It is even thought of as a healthy place to enjoy your summer vacation.



5.) Palanga



Botanical parks, seaside resorts and restaurants, and beaches are only some of the avenues that you will see in Palanga. Here, you can experience maximum pleasure and enjoyment. In Palanga, there is no limit to just how much fun you can get.



6.) National Museums



There are two most known museums in Lithuania. One is the National Museum in Lithuania which was opened in 1855, and in here, you get a background and history of the country just by a tour of the place. Another is the Lithuania Art Museum, and art is so much valued in the country, and there have been many popular painters and artists that were born in Lithuania.



7.) Folk Festivals



Various local festivals are celebrated throughout the country. Make sure that you get a taste of how Lithuanians celebrate their festivals where food and colorful costumes are just two of the sure things you will enjoy during the folk festivals of Lithuania. There are many festivals and celebrations in Lithunia, and your visit is surely bound to coincide with one of their timely celebrations.



8.) Kaunas, Lithuania



Though not as lively a port hub as Vilniua, Kaunas is a place where you can enjoy and do your shopping. More than that, there are various industrial hubs within the area which you must visit. Here, you will get a taste of local Lithuania culture and way of living.



9.) Medieval Castle



One of the most esteemed buildings in Lithuania is the Medieval Castle, a castle which stands in the midst of the waters. It was built way back 14th century, and its purpose was to drive away enemy knights from Germany. The castle is still standing strong until now.



10.) Church of St. Paul and St. Peter



The Church of St. Paul and St. Peter is where you will truly get the feel of how the locals of Lithuanians revere and praise. Whereas Lithuania before did not allow religion from being publicly practiced, Roman Catholicism is now ever prevalent and practiced within the nation. So, this church is a must-see for any visitor to the country.



Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv] Visit [http://www.destinationguide.tv/lithuania] to view or share Lithuania travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv/lithuania]



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Sunday, 6 June 2010

Ten Great Things to Do When You Visit Estonia

By Jonathan Williams

Estonia is a Baltic State with fifteen countries. It is located in Northeastern Europe with land boarders with Latvia and Russia and coastline on the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland. Estonia has a unique and rich nature that nourishes the heart and nostalgic atmosphere of small towns.




1.) Sailing



Estonian territorial waters is comparable to well known sailing grounds situated in much farther South. The Estonian summer weather is also a perfect time for sailing. There are a huge number of ports to choose from around Estonia.



2.) Tallinn



Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, and Toompea is the historical heart of the city. It is covered with cobbled streets with lots of medieval houses and alleyways, and remnants of the city wall can still be seen there and still protects the lower town spread. Around the wall are green parks perfect for strolling. Tallinn was inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1997.



3.) Open Air Museum



The Open Air Museum is located outside the Old City in Tallinn. It showcases seventy-two buildings described as "Estonian vernacular architecture and village milieu" of the tsarist time in a dark dense forest. Tourists can get a picture of the life and its hardship of the olden times through the Open Air Museum.



4.) The Kadriorg Palace



The Kadriorg Palace was built by Italian architect Niccolo Michetti for star Peter the Great of Russia in 1718. The construction of the palace signifies the start of Tallinn's fame as the summer resort for the nobles and rich of Russia. Today, the palace houses some painting and art collection, and s secluded complex of the palace is currently occupied by the Office of the President.



5.) Patarei Prison



This is one of the recent historical attractions. It is a cannon fortress built around 1840 to protect the city from sea-born attacks and as a notorious USSR prison, and the prison only ceased operation in 2004. Patarei Prison tours can last up to five hours.



6.) Lake Peipsi



It is the forth largest lake in Europe and sits in the border of Estonia, Russia and Eastern Europe. It has an average depth of seven meters with the deepest point being fifteen meters. It is ideal for fishing and recreation.



7.) Driving Tours and Cultural Journey



The countries of Estonia may be fifteen, but it can be toured through driving across countries. Each country can be reached in two to three hours of leisurely drive. Historical structures and museum can be seen along the drive as well as the local houses and a glimpse of the life of the Estonian.



8.) Estonian National Museum



The Estonian National Museum is located in Tartu and is devoted to peasant life and agricultural development. It has some imaginatively recreated farmhouse interiors and detailed display of Estonian folk costume from all over Estonia. Tourist will also appreciate the English labeling of the exhibits.



9.) St. Olaf's Church



The church was named after St. Olaf (King Olaf II of Norway), protector of seafarers. The church's spire was used as a lookout by the KGB during the Soviet occupation. Today, the view from the spire can be enjoyed by anyone who can climb the winding stone staircase, and the stunning view of the Toompea and the sea is worth every breath you'll lose in the climb.



10.) Market stalls inside castle wall



Around the ancient fortress where ammunitions and supplies where once stored are now occupied by small stalls that sells goods to locals and visitors alike. The main product of this market is the handmade sweaters which dangle on hangers and cords for display. There are also other Estonian products sold there such as tablecloths, wooden dolls and other handmade crafts.



Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv] Visit [http://www.destinationguide.tv/estonia] to view or share Estonia travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv/estonia]



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Thursday, 3 June 2010

Five Reasons to Visit Romania

By Isabella Olsen

If you're planning a trip to Europe sometime soon, there are many great reasons why you should visit Romania, five of which are listed below.




1. The Romantic Castles of Transylvania



Transylvania is the largest province in Romania, comprising 16 counties. It is known for its rich history and is home to an assortment of medieval castles and fortresses which are sure to impress you when you visit Romania. Imagine a medieval feast as you take a stroll through the Knight's Hall of the Gothic Corvinesti Castle, arguably the most stunning castle in the country or visit the World Heritage Biertan Fortified Church, which offers breathtaking views from its towers.



The fortified churches of Calnic, Darjiu and Prejmer are also World Heritage sites, while the fortresses of Fagaras and Rasnov are equally worth seeing. If ever you venture further south, don't forget to visit Peles Castle, too, in the charming town of Sinaia, which has beautiful stained glass windows and chandeliers.



2. The Legend of Dracula



In many parts of the world, Transylvania is also known as the home of Dracula, one of the most popular characters in horror fiction. After all, it is where Bran Castle, the main setting for Bram Stoker's novel, is located. This castle is also said to be one of the former residences of Vlad III or Vlad Tepes, the infamous prince of Walachia on whom the character of Dracula is based, who, incidentally has Draculea as his Romanian surname.



Aside from visiting Bran Castle, make sure you drop by the ruins of Poenari Fortress, Vlad's actual castle, when you visit Romania, to learn more about his life, and visit the Princely Court in Targoviste where he supposedly impaled the boyars. You can also stop by Casa Dracula in Sighisoara, where Vlad Tepes was born and Snagov Monastery, where Vlad Tepes is said to be buried. It is also worthwhile to spend the night at the village of Arefu where the locals will be more than willing to share you stories handed down from their ancestors, who, according to legend, were the loyal servants of Vlad Tepes himself.



3. Nature and Wildlife



Romania also has its share of stunning natural landscapes, which is home to an interesting diversity of wildlife - another great reason to visit Romania. Indeed, it is easy to spot bears, lynxes, wild bears and beavers in the various natural parks of Romania, particularly the Piatra Craiului Natural Park, and it is also one of the few countries in the world where you can still watch wolves at play in their natural habitat. For bird watchers, take a trip to the Danube Delta, the largest wetland in Romania and all over Europe, where you can see over 300 species of birds, including wild egrets, gold eagles and Dalmatian pelicans.



4. The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina



Not too many people know of the painted monasteries in northeastern Romania, particularly in the province of Bucovina, and yet these gems from the 15th and 16th centuries provide another good reason to visit Romania. Each monastery is a work of Byzantine art, if not a masterpiece, with both the exterior and interior painted with elaborate and colorful frescoes depicting scenes from the bible, the saints, and images of heaven and hell. The best preserved ones are Humor, Probota, Moldovita and Voronet, which is considered the most beautiful of them all - all of which are designated World Heritage sites.



5. Medieval Towns



Take a step back in time when you visit Romania as you tour its well-preserved medieval towns, particularly those of Brasov, Sighisoara and Bistrita. Brasov offers a collection of baroque, gothic and renaissance architecture such as its Black Church and Council Square and Bistrita presents a row of remarkable merchant houses while Sighisoara is a World Heritage town with its narrow, cobbled streets and impressive churches. The towns of Cluj Napoca, Sibiu and Medias are also not to be missed.



Isabella Olsen writes for various travel magazines and has traveled to many global tourist destinations including Romania by car. To book your car hire Romania or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit Zencarhire.com.



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Wednesday, 2 June 2010

Discover Unique Lithuanian Facts Through Lithuania Tours

By Gagan Makin

Lithuania is situated in northern Europe. During 1300s, it was the largest country but its neighboring country annexed and destroyed it in 1795. But, again Lithuania has reorganized itself and today it is amongst the fastest growing economies in the Europe. The best time for traveling Lithuania is summer and spring. The most attractive sights of Lithuania are 'hill of crosses, National Museum, Trakai Island Castle & History Museum'.




Hill of crosses is beautifully bestowed with divine beauty by the nature. When the teasing breeze breaks the silence, your heart will be definitely poured up with the bundle of emotions or it may provide you ultimate peace or remind you various sweet and sour moments. This sight will definitely make memorable Lithuania holiday. National museum is full of antique pieces of costumes, tools, weapons and jewellery which are capable to mesmerize its visitors. Trakai Island Castle is still maintaining its era old structure which was probable constructed around 1400. Probably, it is the best place to spend holidays Lithuania. Sometimes, this place is referred as 'Little Marienburg'. Trakai history museum is famous for charting history of the castle. One can make worthful its Lithuania travel by visiting these places.



Vilnius is capital of Lithuania. Holidays to Lithuania can be accessible thru road, air and train as well. Most of the European capitals are connected with Vilnius with frequent flights. International trains are also connecting Vilnius to some noted locations like Moscow, St. Petersburg and Minsk. Bushes may be the cheapest way to reach Lithuania. Bushes may be available here for the destinations like Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Russia and many other locations. Car rental in Lithuania is very expensive so it would be better to bring own vehicle rather than hiring a car. Cycling is also becoming very popular in Lithuania. Its pedestrian street is perhaps the longest in Europe.



Lithuania tours are mostly concentrated around the places like Kaunas and Vilnius. Kaunas is also known as battle centre. It is situated on the intersection of two large rivers which was main trade route so everyone wants to establish the supremacy at that place and fights used to take place. Vilnius is the largest and capital city of Lithuania. It is surrounded by the wall which was constructed during 1503 and 1522. It was goldedn time of Vilnius. The city wall was destroyed by Russia in 1795 and in 1812 it was seized by Napoleon. During 1915 and 1918, Lithuania was under control of Germany. In 1918, again it came under the control of Russia. In july 12, 1920; Lithuania signed a peace treaty and Vilnius was again recognized. But, same year, Poland occupied Lithuania in spite of Vilnius flourished. There were various beautiful historical monuments in Vilnius but it was destroyed by Soviet Union. Still, if you are visiting Vilnius then don't forget to visit the old town which is true witness of glorifying past of the city. Basketball is very popular game of Lithuania.



Author is an associate editor of http://stayreslithuania.com/ . The website offers exclusive information of online reservation of Hotel in Lithuania. We also provide information about Lithuania holiday, Lithuania travel [http://www.stayreslithuania.com/lithuania-travel-tips.html].



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Tuesday, 1 June 2010

An Overview of Poland for Travelers

By Richard Monk

Poland has a unique history in Europe, often pulled between Russian and Western interests. It you are planning a trip to Poland, here is some background information your should know.




The official name of the country is the Republic of Poland. It covers an area of roughly 120,000 square miles, about the same size as the State of New Mexico in the United States. The capital of the country is Warsaw, which is also the biggest city by population with nearly 1.7 million residents calling it home. Other cities of significance include Lodz with a population of just fewer than 800,000, Krakow with 760,000 residents and Gdansk with 460,000 people. The terrain of Poland is primarily flat although mountains can be found in the region along the southern border of the country.



Citizens of the Republic of Poland are known as Polish. The most recent census found there 36.8 million people living in the country, though some are undocumented aliens. The annual growth rate for the population is stagnant, neither growing nor declining sufficiently to be considered to be changing from a statistical point of view. Unlike many European countries, Poland is primarily populated by its own people with Polish people making up 98 percent of the ethnicity. A smattering of German, Ukrainian, Belorussian and Lithuanian people also live in the country.



Poland is a predominantly uniform religious country. Over 90 percent of Poles subscribe to the Roman Catholic faith. Followers of Eastern Orthodox, Uniate, Protestant and Judaism can also be found.



The literacy rate in Poland is over 98 percent, on par with rates throughout much of Europe. The official language is Polish, which is also the dominant language actually used by the citizens of Poland. Life expectancy for Polish men is 70 years of age, while women life an extra nine years on average, a marked difference.



Poland is often overshadowed by Hungary and Czech as a travel destination in the former bloc countries of the Soviet Union. This gives you an opportunity to experience it before the fast food joints of the west start taking over the quaint country.



Richard Monk is with FactsMonk.com - a site with facts about everything. Visit us to read more about country facts and facts about Poland.



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