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
Thursday, 24 June 2010
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
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
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
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
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.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=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.
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Isabella_Olsen
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
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
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