Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest

Fisherman’s Bastion was built in 1905 on the medieval castle walls, the neo-Romanesque ramparts were so named after the city's fishermen whose duty it was to defend this side of the hill during the Middle Ages, but the existing bastion never actually served a defensive purpose. It is solely ornamental with gleaming white cloisters and stairways connecting seven turrets symbolic of the Magyar tribes that conquered the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century. Set back from the ramparts is an equestrian statue of King Stephen, a memorial to the founder of the Hungarian nation. The view from Fisherman's Bastion, over the Danube, the Chain Bridge and the Parliament Buildings with Pest stretching out into the distance, is outstanding. Floodlit at night, the bastion is a mesmerising sight from across the river. Review our cheap Budapest hotels and get the best rates when you book online with gtahotels.com http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/budapest.htm

A visit to Valetta

Valetta, which is the capital of Malta, has the charm of an Italian city with its many Baroque palaces set on narrow steep streets that form a grid pattern. The city was carefully planned by its founder, Grand Master Fra Jean de la Vallette and the Knights of the Order of St John. The city was 'built by gentlemen for gentlemen' with the first stone being ceremonially laid in 1566 after Ottoman forces withdrew their siege of the Maltese Islands and the Knights of St John took over. The purpose of the city, built in a short span of 15 years on a plateau between two harbours on Malta's northeast coast, was primarily to fortify the island and secondly to provide palaces, Auberges (lodgings) for the eight Knight's groupings (Langues), churches for worship and gardens for recreation. The remnants of the Knight's occupation today characterise Valetta in the form of some splendid Baroque buildings and fortifications, but the majestic architecture manages not to overwhelm the island's carefree personality.

Today you can enjoy a horse drawn cariage ride around the city before exploring the narrow streets and passageways yourself...

Attractions Lascaris War Rooms

Valletta suffered a great deal of damage during bombing raids in the Second World War. The Battle of Malta and other events involving the islands during the early years of the war are featured in a series of 17th century tunnels, which were turned into a military operations complex during the war. The complex has been restored and now acts as a museum, with charts, models and dioramas.

Malta Experience

A dramatic presentation that illustrates the history of Malta, from Neolithic to modern times, can be enjoyed at the Mediterranean Conference Centre at St. Elmo's bastion in Valletta. This building itself has been impressively restored, having been built by the Knights in the 1500s as a hospital. The wards, which are great sweeping halls with vaulted ceilings and marble floors, now serve as exhibition areas. A modern theatre has been added where the Malta Experience audio-visual show is offered in 10 languages.

National Museum of Archaeology

The archaeological museum on Republic Street is housed in one of the inns of the Knights of St John, the Auberge de Provence. The museum's focus on Malta’s prehistory includes displays such as the reconstruction of prehistoric remains found at Hypogeum. Items such as pottery, sculptures, statuettes, stone implements and jewellery from the prehistoric, megalithic and temple-building periods are featured, as well as some Punic and Roman tomb furniture. All the exhibits were found on excavations across the Maltese islands.

Palace of the Grand Masters

The Grand Master's palace, built around 1571, today serves as the office of the President and seat of the Maltese Parliament. The palace is a treasure house of art, from the unique collection of Gobelin Tapestries to frescoes depicting the Great Siege of 1565 by Perez d'Aleccio that cover the walls of the Halls of St Michael and St George. Visitors can also view the armoury and state apartments, which are adorned with friezes describing the history of the Order of St John.

St John's Co-Cathedral

Valetta's magnificent medieval cathedral is famous for the painting by Caravaggio, which hangs in its oratory, and the 369 inlaid mosaic marble tombstones that cover its floor. Each tombstone depicts the lives of the Grand Masters of the Order of St John, buried beneath. The façade is rather severe and militaristic, but inside the cathedral is lavishly splendid in the grandest tradition of high Baroque, with every inch of wall covered by carving, while the vaulted ceiling sports paintings depicting the life of St John the Baptist, patron saint of the Knights.

Events

Springtime is carnival time in Malta. Carnival week with its traditional boisterous revelry, is centred in the capital Valletta. Carnival includes extravagant gaudy floats, fancy dress, and some wild nightlife in the Paceville club area. Other towns and villages across the island also celebrate their own version of carnival. The tradition started in 1560, when a massed Christian armada became harbour-bound in Malta and some jollification ashore ensued. 12 - 16 February 2010

Malta International (MLA)Location: The airport is situated three miles (5km) southeast of Valetta.

Exploring the island of Malta from Valetta is cheap and easy if you travel by bus from the main bus station in Valetta

Munich Oktoberfest

At the end of September/beginning of October each year all roads in Munich lead to the Theresienwiese, a giant grass meadow about the size of 20 football fields near the centre of the city. The occasion is the world's biggest party, the Munich Oktoberfest. The field becomes a beer-drinking city, complete with its own post office, police force and fire department, and most importantly numerous huge tents, erected by the various Bavarian breweries, that serve as massive beer halls. The first keg is tapped in ceremonial style to open the two-week celebration, which draws hundreds of thousands of revellers from all around the world. Apart from the rollicking beer halls where traditional Bavarian bands belt out their old favourites, the festival offers a host of carnival games and fun park rides, as well as stalls selling a range of German delicacies. Date: 19 September to 4 October 2009; Website: http://www.oktoberfest.de/ If anyone has attended the Oktoberfest in previous years, you will know how difficult it can be to find affordable hotel accommodation. We have secured a limited number of rooms at the 3* Tulip Inn Munich Schwabing hotel which is on the outskirts of Munich - While the hotel is not centrally located, there are very good transportation links to the centre of Munich. Interested ? Please send an e.mail to caroline@gtahotels.com for rates and current availability

White party

This year marks the 29th annual White party week - This is the worlds largest and oldest HIV/AIDS fundraiserand takes place between the 25th-30th November 2009 in Miamii Florida. Every year for the past 29 years, individuals have travelled from all around the world to attend this premier event.

The Health Crisis Network first held the White Party in 1985, and Since then, the event has grown from a small effort that raised about $16,000 to a major source of revenue for AIDS research, bringing in millions of dollars annually. The White Party has grown from a single evening event to a week-long series of social occasions. The White Party’s name derives from the tradition that participants at all events dress entirely in white clothing

http://www.whiteparty.org/

If you will be attending this huge event and need hotel accommodation then we have secures limited space at the 4* Intercontinental Miami which is ideally located in Downtown Miami and Soars 34 stories over glistening Biscayne Bay. While there are not a large choice of restaurants, bars or nightlife close to the hotel- It does provide a good value and comfortable base from which to enjoy the White party events.

Overall the Intercontinental Miami hotel is just a short stroll to the Bayside tourist complex - Good for some light shopping. If you want to go to South Beach then it's about a 15 minute taxi ride away...

For further information on rates and availability for the Intercontinental Miami over these dates please contact caroline@gtahotels.com

Will your hotel stay cost you any extra?

Arranging accommodation is definitely of top priority for those travellers who are planning a business trip or going on holiday. Generally the trend is for travellers to book their acommodation first, and then search for the best rates for their flights . For both hotel accommodation and flights, rates are almost always the leading criteria for travellers to bear in mind when considering their options. Second option for accommodation searching, after rates is the location of the hotel, amenities and general facilities on offer. In the past, all you had to be concerned about was paying for your accommodation, with no additional extras unless of course you had used the mini bar, room service, car parking etc....But these days, how sure are you about the total amount that you will be paying for the accommodation? Nowadays, an increasing number of hotels are implementing ways in which they can apply or increase fees, for example, certain services such as air conditioning which were previously included in the room rates are now being charged for separately by the hotel. At this point its worth pointing out that the travel agency that you have booked through are not responsible for any supplementary charges that a hotel may decide to pass on. This growing trend among hotels is actually having the knockback effect of leading to disgruntled guests. Some additional charges that the hotels are passing on are even implemented and made witbout the guests knowledge and even regular customers who visit the same hotel every season can be quite astounded - at the time of checking out - to see how many new fees are added to their hotel bill. Additional hotel charges come in a multitude of disguises such as “mandatory resort fees”, “automatic gratuity” and fees for baggage handling, valet parking, laundry service, access to the gym, use of resort facilities, in-room safe and mini-bar even if you never use them. Quite a number of hotels charge their guests for valet parking - up to $45 per day - despite not bringing cars to the hotel at all; $7 per hour for holding bags behind the reception desk; $10 for Wi-Fi per day or $2 per item for mini-bar restocking. Additionally, there might be some costs covering the general maintenance at the hotels. These hotels know very well which fees will receive complaints and which ones will be paid with little fuss. Not surprisingly, the fees that are hardly brought to guests’ attention are only clarified in the room handbooks or on the website of the hotel and not to the guest at the time of check in nor to the travel agency. Furthermore, these extra charges generally change according to each hotel's needs even if the properties are under the very same brand. At the end of the day, the important point is to keep in mind that the travel agency or the websites that you made your booking through are not responsible for any of these supplementary charges the hotels may be charging. The official agreements made between the hotels and the intermediary companies are essentially based on particular rates for a certain number of people to stay at the hotel. At this point, it is - without doubt – that guests that need to be fully aware of any possible charges and fees that the hotel are implementing. Before making a reservation, it would certainly be a good idea to directly contact the hotel to ask about all the surcharges and take down the name of the person that they spoke to. Moreover, at your hotel, you need to make sure to get a statement of your bill the night before your check-out date, which will give you the favourable chance to examine the hotel bill carefully. If necessary, be unreserved to protest because recent surveys have shown that most hotels are willing to reverse the charges in question to avoid dissatisfied and angry customers.

Liverpool city guide

Liverpool, was the European Capital of Culture for 2008 Liverpool is nestled along the north bank of the River Mersey, in the north-east of England, United Kingdom. Founded as a small river-side city in 13th century, the city has grown into a prominent centre for industrial trade during 17th and 18th centuries and it has long played a significant role in the UK’s financial scene. A city with an impressive character, Liverpool has lots to offer to its visitors. It is a city with a big heart where old and new, traditional and modern, historic and contemporary stands side by side in a heart-warming atmosphere, offering a unique experience. With its stunning architectural structure, iconic natural beauties, vibrant cultural and entertainment facilities and generous culinary offers Liverpool does show that it is not the “European Capital of Culture for 2008 for nothing. Whether for business or leisure, whether just for a weekend break or longer, a trip to Liverpool is definitely a precious gift you can give to yourself. Now, take your guide with you and let yourself be spoilt by the facilities this fascinating city has to offer you. Major attractions in Liverpool Albert Dock Home to many of the city’s premiere attractions such as Tate Liverpool, Beatles Story and Maritime Museum, Albert Dock is a splendid 19th century building which showcases the best of the city in a World Heritage, waterfront setting. Free admission.

Three Graces Three Graces is the name for the Royal Liver Building, the Cunard Building and the Port of Liverpool Building which together create one of the most picturesque waterfronts in the world. Declared as a World Heritage site, Three Graces are not to be missed while in Liverpool. Anglican Cathedral (Liverpool Church) Liverpool Church is a spectacular building regarded as one of the most beautiful architectural achievements of the 20th century. The largest Anglican Church within UK, the Church houses one of the biggest organs in the country. Offering great views of the city of Liverpool from the top of its 101 metre tower, Liverpool Church is a must-see site while in Liverpool. Entrance to the church is free. Tower: £4.25 Metropolitan Cathedral Metropolitan Cathedral is a splendid Catholic Cathedral which is the seat of the Archbishop of Liverpool who is the spiritual leader to Northern Province of the Catholic Church in England. Free admission. Walker Art Gallery Walker Art Gallery boasts one of the finest collections of fine and decorative art in Europe. The collection comprises a great number of paintings, drawings and sculpture dating back to 1300 through the present time. Free admission. The Tate Liverpool The Tate Liverpool hosts the UK’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art outside London. The gallery displays pieces from Tate collection as well as special exhibitions. Free admission. (Fees may apply for special exhibitions) Maritime Museum Maritime Museum invites the visitors into an interesting tour into the city’s history of navigation through various exhibitions and video displays. Free admission. World Museum Liverpool World Museum houses an aquarium which offers eye-catching displays of fish and marine life taking the visitors into an exciting journey into the see world. Free admission. Beatles Story Do you love Beatles? If your answer to this question is “yes” then located at the historic Albert Dock, Beatles Story which has spectacular exhibitions including the original outfits, several video and sound recordings of the legendary band is a must-visit site for you. Admission fee: £12.50. Indulge yourself in Liverpool! Liverpool is not known as a premier gourmet destination. Yet, with its first-class restaurants and brassieres serving distinctive flavours from local and international cuisine, the city has rich culinary kitchen which will satisfy everyone whether travelling on budget or not. Alma de Cuba Nestled in the former St. Peter’s church, Alma de Cuba, which is the Winner of UK’s Best Venue in 2008, is one of the most popular restaurants in Liverpool. With its innovative design, decent dining area and Caribbean-infused menu Alma de Cuba brings a new taste, a new colour into Liverpool’s culinary world. Address: St. Peter's Church, 90 Seel Street London Carriage Works Another award winning restaurant, London Carriage Works is a must-visit place serving modern international food served in a professional manner in a refined setting. Address: 40 Hope Street Shangri-La One of the largest and the most popular restaurants in the city centre, Shangri-La is an excellent restaurant serving tantalising specialties from Chinese cuisine with an emphasis on Shanghai kitchen. Sit back and indulge yourself in one of the restaurant’s two spacious dining rooms enjoying the best drinks and service in the neighbourhood. Address: 37 Victoria Street Tate Liverpool Café Open during gallery hours, Tate Liverpool Café is an ideal spot to have delicious, home-made hot and cold meals or to drop in simply for a coffee. Address: Albert Dock Panoramic Panaromic invites you to have an unforgettable dining experience seated at 100 metres above the sea level, enjoying stunning views over the city and its surroundings while tasting the best food in the town. Address: West Tower, Brook Street Everyman Bistro Everyman Bistro offers the top -quality food made with the freshest ingredients. With its warm setting, friendly service, tasty food and reasonable prices this award winning bistro is another must-visit place in the gastronomic Liverpool. Address: 5-9 Hope Street. Blue Bar and Grill This is a sophisticated contemporary restaurant offering a wide menu including tapas, vegetable dishes and fish specialties. Located at the historic waterfront, Blue Bar and Grill is the ideal place to go if you are searching for good value food at affordable prices. Address: Edward Pavilion, Albert Dock. Lively nights in Liverpool Nights in Liverpool are so colourful, so vibrant. Whether you are searching for a nightclub to dance the night away or just for a quaint place to relax and unwind after a busy day you will find various alternatives offering a pleasant night out in Liverpool. Nation One of the most popular clubs in Liverpool’s night scene, Nation hosts a big number of dance and music events throughout the year. Address: Wolstenholme Square Korova Korova is a lively club in Liverpool nights offering live music seven nights a week. Address: 39-41 Fleet Street Circo

Located in historic Albert Dock, Circo is a decent restaurant/bar/club which provides entertainment for everyone with its lively event schedule and professional service. Address: Britannia Pavilion, Albert Dock. Barfly Barfly host numerous live music events and performances by various local and international bands such as Coldplay, Kaiser Chiefs, Franz Ferdinand, The Strokes, Gossip and many more. Not to be missed while in Liverpool. Address: 90 Seel Street. Baa Bar If you are looking for a more relaxed way of entertainment, Baa Bar with its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere is the right place to spend the night out. Address: Fleet Street. Funakademia Located on the One Central Street, Funakademia is a cool spot to enjoy your night in Liverpool tasting the best local and international spirits while listening to the best picks from the old classics. Getting in/around Liverpool Located at 12 kilometres from the Liverpool city centre, Liverpool John Lennon Airport is one of the United Kingdom’s oldest airports. The main gateway to the city, the airport is serviced by several European and non-European airline companies throughout the year. Once at the airport you will find an efficient transit service between the airport ant the city centre which provides quick access to Liverpool and the surrounding area. Bus number 500 run by Arriva Bus Company links the airport to the city centre in about 20 minutes. The service is available in every 30 minutes costing £2.50. For further information about the route and timetable please check the company’s website: http://www.arrivabus.com/ Liverpool is a compact city with all the attractions close to each other which makes the city easy to explore on foot. For those who prefer public transportation the city has an excellent transportation system to offer its visitors. The transportation services which comprise buses, train, ferry, underground and tunnel lines are operated by Mersey Travel in an efficient way. For information about the routes, timetables and fare you can follow the link: http://www.merseytravel.gov.uk/ There are several passes which provide cheaper transportation within the city. The “Saveaway Ticket” provides unlimited transportation within Liverpool and surrounding area for 24 hours. A ticket that covers the Liverpool area costs £3.20. If you want to take an extensive sightseeing tour around Liverpool, then you can purchase the ticket covering all the Mersey area costing £4.30. Saveaway passes can be purchased at the railway stations, travel centres, ticket agencies in corner shops and at some of the libraries. Live Smart pass, provides free public transportation as well as rides on City Explorer Bus tour and free entrance to some of the top attractions in the city. The pass is valid for 3 days and it costs £24.99. For further information you can visit the website: http://www.livesmart.biz/ Key events in Liverpool Liverpool Comedy Festival (Annual May/June) Liverpool Comedy Festival is an event which celebrates anything funny, showcasing numerous funny performances in various venues throughout the city Liverpool Lord Mayor's Parade (Annual, June) One of the most important events in Liverpool, Liverpool Lord Mayor's Parade is a spectacular event featuring costumed performers and thousands of people lined the streets of Liverpool marching behind the mayor’s horse-drawn carriage. Africa Oye (Annual, June) Africa Oye is the UK’s biggest festival celebrating African music and culture. Brouhaha International Street Festival (Annual, July/August) Brouhaha International Street Festival is one of the friendliest, most colourful and exciting festivals in the UK featuring music, dance, drama and street arts performed in various venues around the city. International Beatles Week (Annual, August) This is an extensive event during which The Beatles fans from all over the world come in the city of Liverpool to celebrate the music of this legendary band. The event features live entertainment as well as art exhibitions, concerts, flea markets, tours and an auction. Liverpool Biennial (Annual, September/November) This is one of the leading contemporary visual art events in the country featuring various displays of works of art by leading international artists. Bonfire Night Fireworks Displays (Annual, November) Held at Sefton Park, Walton Hall Park and Newsham Park Bonfire Night is a colourful event which fills the city with a festive atmosphere.

Book your Liverpool hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Liverpool accommodation

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/liverpool.htm

Travel with the Commodore Amiga!

Ok, hands up...This is not strictly travel related, but for anyone who remembers the classic COMMODORE AMIGA - Here is a photograph for you to swoon over - My first and only love. I took this photograph at the Koç Museum in Istanbul last month, unfortunately for me the AMIGA was safely tucked behind glass, fortunately for the Rami Koç museum the glass saved their exhibit! Tempted by the opportunity to see the AMIGA once again? Who remembers Monkey Island? Lemmings?.... http://www.rmk-museum.org.tr/ Book your Istanbul hotel online and get the best rates for your ıstanbul accommodation.

http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/istanbul.htm

Prague city guide

Prague is the Czech Republic's largest city and capital. It's widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and charming cities of Europe, with fantastic attractions, architecture, nightlife, art and entertainment. It's no surprise why Prague attracts millions of tourists every year. Tourists can learn a lot about Prague simply by its nicknames: "the golden city," "city of a hundred spires" and "Praha matka měst" or "the mother of cities." Incidentally, the word "praha" in Czech and "praga" in German mean "capital." Established in the late 9th century, Prague served as the seat of Bohemian Kings, and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire, many of whom occupied the city’s majestic Prague Castle, which still stands to this day. From the early days, the historic Vltava River ran through Prague, serving as a mirror to the city’s impressive architectural landscape. The city flourished under Charles IV during the 14th century when many of Prague’s leading attractions were created, including some of its magnificent bridges, church domes and gold-tipped towers. This magnificent architecture survived World War I, when Prague was made the capital of Czechoslovakia, and was largely spared during World War II, except for one bombing raid. The medieval center’s walled courtyards and cobbled lanes remained intact. In 1992, the medieval center was added to UNESCEO’S World Heritage List. In 1993, Czechoslovakia was split into two countries: the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Today, Prague is home to 1.2 million people. The city pulsates with modern energy that is evident in its music, art and special events that are geared towards tourists with a sense of adventure. The following are some of Prague’s most popular tourist attractions. Prague Castle The Guinness Book of World Records lists Prague Castle as "the largest ancient castle in the world." This 1100-year-old castle watches over the city from its elevated perch and provides breath-taking views of surrounding areas. It is a favorite subject of postcards and paintings, especially as the sun sets behind it on the east. The Prague Castle grounds feature a lookout tower, several museums and palaces, the magnificent Royal Garden, the St. Vitus Cathedral and the Castle Picture Gallery, which contains works by Titian, Rubens, and Tintoretto. The Castle Picture Gallery contains the artworks that were left behind when the Swedish army looted the castle's art collection in 1648. Castle Entrance Known as the "First Courtyard," the castle entrance features huge statues of battling titans that date back to the 18th century. The Presidential Guards at the entrance are a tourist favorite thanks to their changing of the guard ceremony every hour and the exchange of banners at 12 midnight. The guards are decked in impressive attire, courtesy of the costume designer of the movie "Amadeus," who was hired by then-President Vaclav Havel in 1989 to re-design the guard uniforms. Old Town This is the historic city center of Prague and the site of some of its most popular old buildings and structures, including the Astronomical Clock, Jan Hus monument, Storch mural building and Estate Theater. The old town boasts of several historical churches such as St. James Church, GothicTyn Church, and Church of Our Lady. New Town During the 14th century, New Town was built as an extension of Old Town. Its most popular venue is Wenceslas Square, site of numerous shops and restaurants. Much of New Town has been modernized and now features discos, arcades and art nouveau hotels. New Town also hosts the Disney-colored Jubilee Synagogue. Lesser Town Lesser Town is located in the area just before Prague Castle and is notable for its amazing streets and churches, including the famous St. Nicholas Church. Near the Charles Bridge, tourists will find the Lennon Wall, which features handwritten tributes to John Lennon and grievances against the old communist regime. Loreta Located in Lesser Town, this Baroque convent was built in 1624 and was said to be patterned after Santa Casa, the home of the Virgin Mary. According to legend, angels carried the original Santa Casa to Loreto, an Italian town. Josefov A historical Jewish ghetto, Josefov is renowned for its unique and well-preserved synagogues, including the oldest active synagogue in Europe, the Old New Synagogue. Rumor has it, this is where the legendary Prague Golem rests. Josefov also features the oldest Jewish cemetery in Europe and the house of acclaimed national artist Franz Kafka. Prague Dancing Building Constructed in 1996, this building combines two structures that appear to be dancing: a curving narrow-waisted glass tower that appears to be clutching an upright building. Hence, it was nicknamed the “Fred and Ginger Building” after legendary dance partners Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Petrinska Rozhledna Located on top of a hill, this tower resembles a smaller version of the famed Eiffel Tower. It is 299 steps to the top where tourists can enjoy some of the most beautiful views of Prague. Charles Bridge Built during the 14th century, the Charles Bridge is one of the most impressive attractions in Prague. It is one of several bridges on the Vltava river and the most beautiful of them all. During the daytime, tourists love to stroll on the bridge and frolic on its crowded fairground. The best time to visit is at dawn when you can appreciate the bridge in all its splendor. Museum of Communism Through rare photos, videos, writings and other mementoes, the museum takes visitors back to the days when Czechoslovakia stood behind the Iron Curtain. There are photos of the old Stalin monument in Letna terrace and other photos about how it was passionately destroyed. One of the most popular features is a video of protests that culminated in the Velvet Revolution. Ironically, for a museum dedicated to Communism, it certainly has a curious location -- between a casino and a McDonald's fast-food place. Dining In Prague, lunch is traditionally the most important meal of the day. It’s a favorite time to indulge in traditional Czech cuisine, which revolves around pork and beef along with side dishes such as fries and dumplings. The leading restaurants usually draw crowds during lunch and dinner so it’s advisable to make your reservations. The price of meals already includes taxes but many restaurants that cater to tourists tack on a “kovert” or additional charge. This charge should be printed on the bill as part of the meal charge. If it’s scrawled by hand, tourists can clarify the charges. Note: ketchup, bread and anything else brought to the table is charged. There are many different kinds of restaurants in Prague, but if you’d like to sample Czech cuisine, here are some of the best places: Box Block This luxurious restaurant is located inside the Carlo IV hotel (Senovážné náměstí 13, Nové Město) and serves Czech, Italian, and Fusion food. Its marble floors and elegant frescoes make the Box Block an excellent venue for fine dining. It serves haute cuisine such as turbot in truffle sauce, tuna carpaccio and bison steak. U Zlaté Hrušky Located at the romantic Nový Svět area (Nový Svět 3, Hradčany), “At The Golden Pear” is a favorite venue of locals and tourists alike. Their Czech cuisine is elegantly prepared and they also serve a wide array of international dishes. During summer months, diners can seat at the leafy garden restaurant across the street. U Modré Kachničky That stands for “At the Blue Dumpling,” a baroque hunting lodge tucked away on a quiet street (Nebovidská 6, Malá Strana). This old-fashioned romantic restaurant serves candlelit dinners and is perfect for traveling couples. The menu consists of traditional Bohemian poultry and fish. Legenda Located at Legerova 39, Vyšehrad, Legenda gets rave reviews from foreign tourists who are looking for a filling meal of steak, pasta or Czech classics. The prices here are relatively inexpensive considering its generous and quality servings. Bars and Nightlife There are many excellent and friendly nightclubs and “hospoda” or pubs in Prague. Keep an eye out for a hanging green sign at the entrance which means that the place serves the country’s best local beers, Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar. Most pubs offer only a limited selection of beers. It’s a custom in Prague for people to sit with other people if there are no tables available so don’t be alarmed if this happens to you and don’t be shy about doing the same thing. If you’re curious about the local pub scene, join “The Crawl.” It’s a nightly pub crawl where participants visit a host of pubs and clubs with good entertainment at low prices. The Crawl begins with a few rounds of free beer, wine and absinthe at the Old Town Square clock tower every night at 9:15 p.m. Duende It you're in the mood for some bohemian drinking while listening to live guitar and violin performances, Duende is the place, located at Karolíny Světlé 30, Staré Město. It's a favorite hangout of the arty, local crowd and of tourists of all ages. An excellent venue for good conversation and romance. Baráčnická Rychta Located at Tržiště 23, Malá Strana, this popular pub and bar is tucked away on Mala Strana. It has the furtive and secretive ambience of a 19th century beer hall it once was. There are four types of beer served upstairs while live shows featuring big bands occupy the Cabaret Hall downstairs. Jáma This is the favorite bar of the American expatriate crowd. Naturally, the menu features steaks, ribs, burgers, fries and chicken wings. Jama features at outdoor beer garden decorated by lime and walnut trees. Tourists of all nationalities are here during weekends, rubbing elbows with young locals. It's located at V jámě 7, Vyšehrad. Kuŕe V Hodinkách It means "the Chicken in the Watch," the name of a popular Czech music album from the 1970s. This posh pub attracts tourists and wealthy locals every night. Its walls are adorned with rock paraphernalia. The main attraction of this place is its wide selection of beers and malts as well as its delicious food. Getting In and Around Ruzyne International Airport is about 20 kms away from Prague’s city center and a 30-minute drive by car. Taking a taxi will cost around 350 - 700 CZK, but it’s the most comfortable way to get to the city. Try to avoid taxi drivers who solicit passengers inside the terminal building because they charge between 50% to 100% more. The bus is the most inexpensive option for getting into the city. It costs only 26 CZK, plus an additional 13 CZK if you have a lot of luggage. However, bus drivers don’t accept foreign currency so make sure you have Czech Crowns on hand. The Airport Express and Cedaz bus services have buses leaving every 30 minutes starting at 4:40 a.m. and 5:30 a.m., respectively, until 9:30 p.m. at night. There are also shuttle services for certain hotels that cost 9 EUR per person. Once inside the city, most tourists take public transport because it’s very convenient and services all the places tourists are likely to visit. There are tram and bus schedules at all major stations as well as maps of the city. They operate until 5 a.m. If you’re planning on using public transport, purchase a Prague Card for 790Kc. It’s good for four days and comes with a guidebook and free entry into over 50 tourist attractions aside from other discounts. For an additional 330Kc, tourists get to ride the bus, tram and underground subway for 72 hours. Children and students get a special discount on the Prague Card. Hailing a taxi on the street can be expensive for tourists and its best to negotiate the price in advance. If you have to take a taxi, try to get one from the major taxi companies. Their telephone numbers are as follows: Profi Taxi, +420 844 700 800; PAT Taxi, +420 800 870 888; City Taxi, +420 257 257 257; Halo Taxi, +420 244 114 411; and AAA Taxi, +420 222 333 222. Festivals and Events People in Prague are big on holidays, and there's always a major celebration city-wide during New Year's Eve, Three King's Day (6 January), Easter Monday (March or April), Labor Day (May 1) and Liberation Day (May 9). Labor Day coincides with the Majales spring festival, which Czechs celebrated for over two centuries but was banned by the Nazis and communists. However, its celebration was revived in 1997 with as much fervor as before. On this special day, the streets are filled with bands, costumes, floats and merry-makers enjoying their beer and sausages. Another big celebration is held on January 19, the anniversary of Jan Palach's death. It honors the student who burned himself to death protesting the Soviet occupation in 1969. Prague’s other major festivals include the following: Spring Festivals Prague has a host of festivals in March, April and May. The most notable of these are the Easter Market celebration in April, which features parades and stalls at Wenceslas Square as well as a giant Easter egg hunt, and Witches Night on April 30, where the locals gather around bonfires and celebrate while warding away witches. Winter Festivals As Prague is the winter festival center of the Czech Republic, there's a lot going on in the city from November to February, including music festivals, ballroom dancing and pagan holidays. The International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music in December brings amateur adult and children's choirs together in a friendly competition that commemorates Christmas. The Prague Christmas Market in December is held at the Old Town Square and features plenty of food, drinks, souvenir stalls and live entertainment. Saint Nicholas' Eve on December 5 is filled with Christmas cheer and is highlighted by Santa's Parade through Prague. On New Year's Eve, Prague celebrates like any other European city with non-stop parties, dancing, drinking and merry-making. Finally, Ball Season in January is celebrated throughout the Czech Republic with classical ballroom dancing.

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Barcelona city guide

Welcome to Barcelona, one of the most stylish and elegant cities in the world From the art collections of Picasso to the eccentric architecture of Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s unique sense of style is evident everywhere: art, architecture, fashion and entertainment. And at night, Barcelona transforms into a premier party town, where people party everywhere until the wee hours of the morning, especially during summer. The people of Barcelona are a fun loving bunch, exuberant and creative, always full of good cheer and neighborly warmth. There are around 1.6 million residents in Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain, and 3.1 million in the Metropolitan Area. Flanked by the rivers of Besos and Llobregat, Barcelona is a thriving economic center. Its famous ports and the bustling Barcelona International Airport host a parade of human traffic and various goods all day long. Meanwhile, tourists know Barcelona more for its cultural heritage, amazing sights, seven beaches and 68 municipal parks Barcelona’s history underscores its prominence during past civilizations as the capital city of the Crown of Aragon and the Counts of Barcelona. It was founded as a Roman city and historical battles were waged for its control. Today, Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, an Autonomous Community of the Kingdom of Spain and one of 17 regions that compose Spain. It is the seat of the Catalan government: the executive branch, parliament and Supreme Court. It is also the capital of Barcelonès county. The most prominent and interesting quarters in Barcelona are Ciutat Vella, the oldest town in the city with Medieval roots; Eixample, Modernist in every sense, including its buildings; the gentrified Gràcia; and Barceloneta, a tourist haven of beaches, restaurants, bars and cafes. Barcelona has been one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations for the last decade. Its busiest time is August and September when some shop owners actually close shop and go on vacation to avoid the maddening throng of tourists. Despite the crowds, foreign visitors are more than glad to visit stylish and elegant Barcelona. Attractions Architecture The first thing that strikes a tourist about Barcelona is its amazing architecture, which cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Much of the credit for the city’s dazzling architectural landscape goes to two architects, Antoni Gaudi and Lluis Domenech y Montaner. Between them, they account for nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Casa Mila, Crypt in Colonia Guell, Palau de la Musica Catalana, Park Guell and Sagrada Familia. Football Anybody who loves football should visit Camp Nou, a veritable European football “cathedral” and home ground of FC Barcelona, the city’s number one team and a European football powerhouse. The arena can accommodate nearly 100,000 people, all of whom scream and stomp when their favorite team is in action. When Franco reigned, FC Barcelona was one of the few ways the people of Catalana could express their anger for the dictatorship, which is one reason why the team is so beloved. La Rambla Barcelona’s most famous boulevard is the perfect place to soak in the city’s culture. As the saying goes, if you sit here long enough, you will see all of Barcelona pass you by. Tourists pack La Rambla during the day to enjoy the sights, meander around the pet stalls or delight in the street performers. At night, the locals are out in droves. If you’re on La Rambla when FC Barcelona wins, especially against hated rivals Real Madrid, you will be treated to the fantastic sight of an entire city rejoicing. La Plaça Reial Sitting right beside La Rambla, La Plaça Reial is renowned as one of the most beautiful squares everywhere. Its charm is enhanced by streetlights designed by Gaudi. Parks Spanning an amazing 203 hectares and located on a mountain, Monjuic Park is the largest park in Barcelona. However, it’s the second largest park that really captures the fancy of tourists, Ciutadella Park, with its zoo, many museums, an old military citadel and the Parliament building. Oreneta Castle Park and Diagonal Mar Park are also can’t-miss destinations. Children will enjoy the Labyrinth Park, with its dizzying garden maze. Museums The Archeological Museum in Santa Madrona boasts of artifacts dating back to the 7th century. The Frederic Mares Museum displays a wide array of Spanish scriptures and artworks from the Middle Ages, including masterpieces of the Virgin Mary and the crucifix. As its name indicates, the Picasso Museum displays nothing but Picasso's paintings and his scope is amazing. The Wax Museums features over 300 famous and life-like figures. Sports buffs will adore the Sports Museum in Buenos Aires while FC Barcelona fans will consider the Museo del Futbol Club de Barcelona as a worthy shrine to their beloved team. Olympic Port Not sure what you want to do tonight? Head to the Olympic Port where you'll find countless bars, pubs, restaurants and other types of entertainment. The Olympic Port is one of the biggest reasons why the night is always alive in Barcelona. Tibidabo According to legend, this is where the devil tried to offer Jesus Christ the world in exchange for His allegiance. Located in the mountains, Tibidabo may not provide a view of the world, but it certainly gives tourists a dazzling view of Barcelona from a vantage point of over 500 meters high. Make sure you take the metro to Tibidabo Station and the Funicular to reach the top of the mountain. Otherwise, you’ll have to walk an entire day to enjoy the view. Montjuic Castle If you want a panoramic view of the city, another excellent place to visit is Montjuic Castle, a fortress built during the 17th century. The view is absolutely breath-taking. Montjuic also hosts some of Barcelona’s most popular parks and gardens. L'Aquarium This is Europe's second biggest aquarium where fishes, penguins and even sharks number in the thousands. Visitors can walk through a long "tube" made of glass and feel like they are in the water with the sharks and other fish. The tube is something that even Europe's biggest aquarium in Genoa doesn't have. Dining Food in Barcelona has a tendency to be inconsistent, and where you eat matters a great deal. Here's a tip: follow the locals and patronize the restaurants and cafes that they frequent. You can’t go wrong. Restaurants typically have a menu of the day (menu del dia) consisting of a simple two-course meal, with three or four options. Keep an eye out for lunch specials from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. which serve food at a fraction of the price. The hours between 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Barcelona are usually for siesta time, and most of the restaurants and cafes are closed. However, there are a few good restaurants that stay open, such as Origen, Udon and international food chains. Here’s a rundown of some of the best restaurants in the city: Alkimia Located at Carrer Industria 78, Alkimia is a winner of the Michelin Star for excellence in dining. It specializes in Catalan cooking and seafood dominates the menu. Interiors are simple and all-white to draw more attention to the food. Operated by acclaimed restaurateur Jordi Vila, Alkimia is one of Barcelona’s best restaurants. Gaig Here’s another Michelin Star winner. Food connoisseurs say Gaig has the freshest produce in the city. That’s easy to believe, especially once you see the chickens in the patio freely walking about. Located at Arago 214, Gaig also specializes in Catalan cuisine. In contrast to Alkimia’s simple decor, Gaig’s interiors are a contemporary red and black. Circ Sentits In 2004, Conde Nast Traveler named this restaurant among the “80 Hottest New Restaurants in the World,” and Circ Sentits is living up to that lofty billing. The specialty is also Catalan cuisine, but served with a wine pairing. It is located at Aribau 58. Casa Leopolodo This is the place where pork lovers should dine. They have everything from pork stew to hoof of pork. For variety, Casa Leopoldo also has fish and seafood dishes, including its famous Norway lobsters. It is located at Sant Rafael 24. Bars and Nightlife Barcelona's pubs, bars, nightclubs and discos are constantly buzzing with the live sound of salsa, rock, jazz and flamenco. Here are some recommendations to make the wandering tourist feel right at home. Catwalk This is one of the hottest nightclubs in the city. Catwalk attracts such a crowd that they need every inch of their two dance floors. Dance the night away to R&B and hip-hop as well as Techno music. Things don’t really heat up until 2 a.m. Fonfone Located on Escudellers 24, Fonfone features all-night dancing to the hot beats of electronic music as the multi-colored tiled walls flash non-stop. The interiors are hip and modern. Fonfone also boasts of a well-stocked bar. La Paloma If you’re the type who enjoys gyrating with the young and beautiful crowd, La Paloma is your night club of choice. Located at Tigre 27, this place really begins to heat up at 2 a.m. The dance floor is packed and the party doesn’t stop until 5 a.m. Maumau Meanwhile, if your idea of a night on the town is chilling out at a lounge bar as slow, relaxing music fills the air, Maumau is the place. They regularly host live concerts and short film nights. Sutton Sutton has one of the largest dance floors around as well as two VIP rooms for its hip guests. There’s also a small stage where only the best dancers venture to show off their skills. Thursday is Studio 54 night. The rest of the week features a steady diet of House music. This is a must-visit for lovers of Techno. Chupitos The name says it all: chupitos means “shots” and that’s the specialty of this club. There are hundreds of different types of shots available, including the “Harry Potter,” which is sprinkled with cinnamon. You’ve probably never seen so many shot-happy people all in one place. And don’t worry about staring. Watching other people enjoy their shots is all part of the show. Getting In and Around The Barcelona International Airport, known locally as "El Prat," services flights from Europe and beyond. It’s a mere 10 kms away from the center of Barcelona. Taxis are always available but they can be expensive. Instead, you can take the RENFE suburban train, which leaves the airport every 30 minutes and takes 20 to 30 minutes to get to the city center. Tickets cost around €2.20. There’s also the Aerobus A1 line, which departs from the airport every five to 10 minutes. All its buses are air-conditioned and the fare to the city center is just €4.05. However, the Aerobus is only available until midnight. Once in Barcelona, tourists have many options for traveling around the city. One of the most convenient is the Bus Turistic, which connects to dozens of different tourists attractions. They have northbound and southbound routes. A whole-day ticket costs around €20 while a ticket for two consecutive days is around €26. You may want to consider taking the metro around the city. Tickets are €1.30 for a single trip and €7.30 for 10 rides. There’s also a 50-ride ticket worth €27.55 that’s good for a month. Heading to Tribidabo provides tourists with the opportunity for more exotic types of transport: the Tramvia Blau and Funicular. Tramvia Blau is an old tram dating back to the early 20th century which takes passengers to the foot of Tribidabo mountain. Funicular is another tram that takes passengers to the mountain top. Traveling around Barcelona on a bicycle is a popular way to see the city. There are many places where you can rent a bike such as Barceloneta Bikes near the harbor and Budget Bikes, which has several outlets scattered around. You can also rent a bike from Fat Tire Bike Tours or try out their tour for €22. Renting a car is naturally another option, but parking can be costly at €1.5 to €2.5 per hour. Moreover, driving around the city can be complicated as many of the roads are one-way. It's essential to have a driving map on hand. Festivals and Events Barcelona has year-round wild occasions filled with drinking, dancing and dressing to the nines, especially during the 15 official holidays of the year. Here are some of Barcelona’s leading festivals. Fiesta de San Antonio Abad Naturally, a year of fiestas begins with New Year's Day and is quickly followed by Fiesta de San Antonio Abad on January 17. This occasion is celebrated all over Spain with partying in front of bonfires, especially during the Saturday closest to the 17th. Las Fallas This major festival is celebrated from March 12 to 19. Families make paper mache dolls of Shrek, George W. Bush and other famous figures then parade them all over town and burn them in bonfires at the end of the day. All the while, music is playing and people are drinking and dancing. If you haven’t seen bonfires as big as buildings, just wait for the last day of Las Fallas. It looks like the whole city is on fire. La Diada de Sant Jordi On April 23, Barcelona celebrates this Valentine's Day of sorts and also commemorates the deaths of William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, who passed away on the same day. It’s a special day for lovers and, naturally, party time for everyone else. Festes de la Merce This is one of Barcelona's biggest yearly festivals featuring fireworks, live music, processions with wooden giants and a popular contest on who can create the tallest human tower. It's also a day for drinking lots of Cava, Catalonia's national drink. Festes de Gràcia On August 15, Barcelona commemorates the Assumption with a week of fiestas and fireworks. It's an important Catholic occasion and the people of Barcelona celebrate it appropriately. Fira de Santa Llúcia This three-week celebration unfolds from December 2 to 23 and revolves around the feast day of Santa Llucia on December 13. Since Santa Llucia is the patron saint of fashion designers, the day features colorful costumes and floats. It's a favorite day of the gay community.

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Cardiff city guide

Introduction Cardiff is both the political and the cultural capital of Wales. It is located in southern Wales. It is included in the Eurocities network of the European cities and has become an important tourist destination in recent years. Having a shoreline on the Bristol Channel and being situated on the coast of south Wales plain, Cardiff is a picturesque city. Apart from beautiful landscape and gardens, the important historic sites are what make Cardiff an attractive town. It isn’t the pale industrial city any more. Cardiff is a lively city now, especially when it hosts Welsh sporting events in its new Millennium Stadium. As the attractions are generally outdoor oriented, it is best to visit Cardiff during spring. Attractions Cardiff Castle The castle is located in the city centre, very close to the Bute Park. It is a fine piece of Gothic architecture with a beautiful courtyard. Interior design is even more impressive with colorful paintings. There are peacocks wandering in the grounds that are surely worth seeing. The entrance fee to the grounds is 3.75 GBP while admission to the castle in accompaniment of a guide is 7.50 GBP. Gorsedd Park This charming park is surrounded by the Cardiff Civic Centre buildings of City Hall, the Law Courts and the National Museum of Wales. The park has countless colorful flowers all around. There are also statues of important figures like Lloyd George. You can take some nice photos especially at night when the City Hall is illuminated. Bute Park Bute Park is a green area that offers many activities to its guests. The area is suitable for a nice picnic. There are also an arboretum, recreation grounds, flower gardens worth seeing and some ruins including the Standing Stones. The Glamorgan County Cricket Club, the Welsh Institute of Sport, a riding school and Sophia Gardens are located in the garden, too. Millennium Stadium The stadium is located in the city centre of Cardiff, across the road from the castle. It was opened in 1999. It is known to have the first retractable roof in the UK. You can explore the changing rooms of the football players and also the players’ tunnel. Apart from the sports events, it also hosts music events. The seating capacity of the stadium is 74.500. Cardiff Bay

The Cardiff Bay area is a popular promenade. The bay has some of the highest tidal ranges in the world. There are many restaurants, cafes and bars that you can go and enjoy the beautiful view of the bay. There are also street entertainers and shows around the bay on summer Sundays. Cardiff Indoor Market This market is quite popular among ardent shoppers. From groceries to umbrellas, you can find almost anything you need at this market. It is like a huge tunnel between St. Mary’s Street and The Hayes. There is also an informing display about the market on the balcony. The Cardiff Market has been there since the 14th century! The market is open from Monday to Saturday between 8 am to 5.30 pm.

Dining and where to eat As Cardiff is both the capital and the largest city of Wales, it has a wide range of restaurants, cafes and fast food restaurants which have attractive offers to satisfy every budget. There is a great number of Italian, French, Greek, Indonesian, Turkish and Moroccan restaurants throughout Cardiff. Caroline Street is the address of the cheapest dishes, take away- food and kebab shops, so it is a quite popular street especially at nights. ASK To have a great dinner in Cardiff, all you have to do is just “ask”. ASK is a nice Italian restaurant where you can find all kinds of pizza along with pasta. Added to this is the friendly service. The restaurant is located at 24 Wyndham Arcade, Mill Lane. An average dinner costs about € 7- € 10. Diner 77 This is a small American restaurant. It is located at 77 Pontcanna Street. Apart from the delicious cuisine including steak, chicken and ribs, there are also good meal options for vegetarians. The restaurant has been run by a family since 1977. As it may be crowded, it is a good idea to book in advance. (Prices are about the average.) The Kismet The Kismet is a very nice Indian restaurant for those who like Indian cuisine and those on a budget. It is located at 24 City Road. Try the Indian buffet till early evening just for £ 2.95! The buffet includes rice, Indian bread; curry sausages, chicken on the bone and some veggie dishes. If you would prefer a three course meal, you can have it for about £ 6.95. Haze Haze is the right address to try some Welsh cuisine. It is located in the Old Library, the Hayes- opposite St. David’s Hall. There is a wide selection of food- including Welsh produced cheese, spirits, liqueurs and seafood. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Saturday, between 10 am and 4 pm. (Prices are less expensive than the average.) Bars and nightlife St. Mary’s Street is the heart of nightlife in Cardiff. Many pubs, bars and clubs are focused on the street. Charles Street is the second address of fun at Cardiff nights. Visit especially the Brewery Quarter on St. Mary’s Street which is a relatively new place assertive on the field of entertainment. Here are some of the clubs you can try when in Cardiff: Oceana Oceana is situated off Queen Street, near New Theatre. This nightclub is located in a two story- building. It has three dance floors, one of which is located on the ground floor, the rest being upstairs. The bar downstairs is open till 2 am. After that time, you can go upstairs to the nightclub for free! Clwb Ifor Bach This is a Welsh club situated in the heart of Cardiff, between Cardiff Castle and Westgate Street Multi-storey car park. There are three dance floors, a bar and a live band in the club. Entrance fee is quite reasonable- around £ 3. Transportation to and in Cardiff Cardiff is mainly served by Cardiff International Airport which is about 12 miles from the city. You can use the regular bus services to get to the airport from the city centre. Apart from the bus service, rail service is also available and quite convenient to use. Take the train to the Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Railway Station which is close by. Shuttle buses from the local rail lines to the airport are also frequently used. To go to the main city centre attractions, the easiest way is to use Cardiff Central Railway Station. There are about 22 train stations in Cardiff. Besides the inter-Wales services, there are also frequent trains to Manchester and Birmingham. This makes access to Cardiff from the nearby cities even easier. Cardiff Festival This is an annual festival held every weekend between July and August. This is a big event which generally includes a Children’s festival, Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival, MAS Carnival and a lot more. Do not miss this event when you are in Cardiff.

Istanbul city guide

Istanbul, a city with a stunning beauty Istanbul is located on the north western part of Turkey. Spanning over two continents the city is the most populated city of the country and whi,le nolt the actual capital city of Turkey it is still a leading capital of culture, finance and education. Due to its unique location which makes the city a geo-politically important city, Istanbul has suffered many sieges by various civilizations throughout the history. From powerful Roman Empire to prestigious Ottoman rule Istanbul played house to many empires which enabled the city with a diverse culture and stunning historic beauties. Often regarded as the city where East meets West, the city enjoys a rich historical heritage which offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western culture and history. Apart from its historical importance, Istanbul strikes the visitors with its natural beauties. Bosphorous with its picturesque turquoise colour, gorgeous little islands nestled in the Marmara Sea, various sports facilities and with its generous weather the city is an excellent destination for leisure travels. With its modern structure, vibrant cultural and entertainment scene and numerous shopping facilities, on the other hand, Istanbul offers everything which will satisfy the needs of the modern traveller. Istanbul is a huge city with a huge population, therefore the life in the city may seem chaotic at times, especially if you are coming from a place where everything is well organised. Yet, once in Istanbul you will find a unique system within this chaotic structure which keeps this huge city in a special order keeping the life going as it should. Whether you are here for leisure or business, whether you are looking for an exotic vacation or simply for a tourist holiday in Istanbul it is for sure that you will get much more than what you are searching for. Enjoy your time in Istanbul Gastronomy in Istanbul The cosmopolitan structure of Istanbul reflects itself on the culinary diversity as well. As a city where East meets West, Istanbul has a rich gastronomic kitchen where you can find examples from Eastern and Western cuisines. With thousands of restaurants and cafes serving tantalising specialties from Turkish and international cuisine Istanbul invites you to a memorable culinary experience which will well suit both your taste and wallet. Tramway Cafe/Restaurant Located just a stroll from the historic tunnel, Tramway is an excellent restaurant serving delicious tastes from Turkish cuisine as well as specialties from European cuisine. With a spacious dining area, warm atmosphere, good service and reasonably priced menu Tramway is one of the best places to enjoy a fine lunch/dinner in Istanbul. Address: Istiklal Cad. 346, Beyoglu. Leb-i Derya Leb-i Derya is one of the most popular restaurants among locals. Due to its location at the backstreets of the busy Istiklal street the restaurant might not seem very attractive, yet once you’re inside the it will amaze you with its perfect view overlooking Bosphorus, extensive menu, decent atmosphere and quality food. Not to be missed. Address: Kumbaraci Yokusu 57/6, Tunel, Beyoglu 360 360 offers tantalising specialties from international cuisine with an emphasis on Turkish culinary tradition. Sit back enjoy the best dishes in the town while overlooking the gorgeous city of Istanbul from the restaurants spacious terrace. Address: Istiklal Cad. Mısır Apt. 311/8 Beyoglu. Sultanahmet Koftecisi If you are up for a real Turkish lunch/dinner then located right across Sultanahmet Square, Sultanahmet Koftecisi is the right place to go. Serving delicious Turkish meatballs together with salad and piyaz (a cold dish made with dried beans and chopped onions) this restaurant gives an introduction into the Turkish cuisine which makes it a must-visit place while in Istanbul. Address: Divanyolu Cad. 12, Sultanahmet as well as various locations throughout Istanbul Bambi Café Bambi is the name for a café chain in Istanbul which serves a wide range of fast food from hamburgers to toasts, from sausages to durum (wrapped meat/chicken chopped into small pieces). Nice place to drop by before a second round of sightseeing, or after a long night out. Inci Nestled in a small shop at the heart of busy Istiklal Street, Inci is a must-visit place serving delicious profiteroles. The shop has a limited number of seats so be prepared for a long wait before you finally find somewhere to seat and enjoy your dessert. Address: Istiklal Cad. 124/2, Beyoglu. Lively nights in Istanbul You have explored the city by day, so now it is time to dive into the colourful nights of Istanbul. Centred on Beyoglu and Ortakoy areas, nights in Istanbul offer a memorable time out. Whether you are up for a few drinks in a relaxed corner or for heavy partying until the first lights in the morning in this magical city you are assured to find what you are looking for. Enjoy your night in Istanbul! 360 Istanbul Are you ready to dance the night out? With its fascinating design and generous menu including the best local and international drinks 360 is the right place to enjoy the lively nights in Istanbul in a refined setting accompanied by the best views over the city. Istiklal Cad. Mısır Apt. 311/8 Beyoglu Balans and Jolly Joker Balans is a music and performance hall ( Jolly Joker) which has a busy event schedule. Mostly packed with university crowd, Balans is well worth checking out. Address: Balo Sok., 22 Beyoglu Roxy One of the most popular nightspots in Istanbul, Roxy hosts various live music performances, dance and concept parties offering the greatest entertainment in the city. Closed on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Entrance fee: 40 YTL (weekends). Address: Sıraselviler Cad. Aslanyatağı Sok. 5 Beyoglu Babylon Babylon is a leading live music venue housing various live music events by various local and international bands & singers throughout the year. Entrance fees vary for each event. Address: Sehbender Sok, 3 Tunel-Asmalimescit-Beyoglu Hamam Nestled in the terrace of a historic 16th century building, Hammam is a trendy place to enjoy a fascinating night out in Istanbul. Address: Istiklal Cad. Bahceli Hamam Sok, 3. Studio Live Studio Live is another popular nightclub among the locals in Istanbul. Housing various local and international music events as well as DJ performances and dance nights, Studio Live is a must-see place while in Istanbul. Address: Atif Yilmaz Cad. 17/A Beyoglu Nevizade Street Located in Beyoglu District adjacent to Istiklal Street, Nevizade is the best place to be if you enjoy a more relaxed kind of entertainment. With various bars & restaurants (specialising mostly in see food) it hosts Nevizade Street offers the best of entertainment in a laid back atmosphere. Catz Bebek Located right across Bebek Mosque, this is a trendy place where you can enjoy a couple of drinks in a laid-back atmosphere. With its rich menu including best quality local and international spirits served lovely setting by attentive staff Catz Bebek invites you into a memorable night in Istanbul. Address: Bebek Mahallesi Cevdetpasa Cad. Hamam Sok. 2. Topkapi District This is a cosy district where you can find various cafes where you can sit and chat with friends while eating hand-made delicious bakeries called “gozleme”. Flavoured Shisha is a must-try while in Topkapi. Key events in Istanbul International Film Festival (Annual, in April) Held in various venues in Beyoglu area, Istanbul International Film Festival is a leading festival showcasing numerous local and international films and hosting directors and movie stars from all around the world. International Theatre Festival (Annual, late May/ early June) International Theatre Festival is a three week festival during which numerous plays meet the audience in various venues throughout the city. International Istanbul Music Festival (Annual, June) Held by Istanbul Culture and Art Organisation (IKSV) International Istanbul Music Festival is a leading event housing performances by world-famous artists and orchestras filling the city with a musical air. Efes Pilsen One Love Festival (Annual, June) Held on the longest day of the year, Efes Pilsen One Love festival features rock music performances, dance shows and many other colourful events bringing the lovers of rock music into the city. International Jazz Festival (Annual, July) International Jazz Festival showcases excellent local and international jazz performances attracting thousands of visitors each year. Akbank Jazz Festival (Annual, October) Sponsored by Akbank (a private bank company in Turkey) Akbank Jazz Festival is another key event in the city’s music scene. The festival is held in various venues throughout Istanbul. Efes Pilsen Blues Festival (Annual, November/December) Turkey’s only blues festival, Efes Pilsen Blues Festival gives the lovers of blues music the opportunity to meet the leading performers in the world’s rock music scene. International Istanbul Biennial (From September to November) Sponsored by Koç Companies Group, International Istanbul Biannial aims at promoting contemporary Turkish works of arts. Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasia Marathon (Annual, last Sunday of October) Intercontinental Istanbul Eurasia Marathon starts from the Asian side of Istanbul, and ends on the European side, on route passing the most beautiful sights of the city offering the participants a unique experience. Widely attended by thousands of local and international runners, this marathon is not to be missed if you are in Istanbul in October. Book your Istanbul hotel online with gtahotels and get the best rates for your Istanbul accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/istanbul.htm

Hotel reviews

Surveys show that travel website users want social media and user-generated content which means any hotel review you write when you get back from your trip is going to be read! Here are a handful of the most recent hotel reviews that have been written by guests and submitted to the gtahotels.com website Apostoli Palace Locanda Hotel in Venice Great quiet location (but still close to everything). You'll be relieved to be able to get away from the hustle and bustle of St Marks Square etc. Rooms are small but nicely decorated and extremely clean. Breakfast is lovely too and the staff are friendly and helpful. Would definitely stay there again http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/apostoli_palace_locanda_hotel_venice_island.htm Crown Court hotel Inverness We were there for a wedding and found the staff very efficient and helpful. The wedding meal was superb - wonderful veggie choice too - and was served with speed and ease. A huge choice at breakfast too which couldn't be faulted. Brilliant! When we entered our bedroom it was nicely decorated and welcoming. Unfortunately what a disappointment when we looked in the bathroom! If we were to have stayed another night I would most certainly have asked for another room http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/crown_court_hotel_inverness.htm City River hotel Siam Reap Cambodia I would definitely recommend this hotel to others. The price was good and the service was excellent. I especially liked the Roof-top swimming pool, which had a good selection of foods, including Western and Asian options. The rooms were Spartan but nice. There is a very nice pool area and a gym for people who need to workout. The hotel is close to pub street and old market http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/city_river_hotel_siem_reap.htm Kemer Resort hotel Kemer Turkey This is an excellent hotel. Spotlessly clean, great choice of food. The best value hotel we have ever stayed in.It promises a lot and delivers. Great and safe for youngsters, ramps everywhere for disabled. Popular with Russians and german families. You won't be disappointed. http://www.gtahotels.com/hotels/kemer_resort_hotel.htm

Popular summer beach destinations

Fuerteventura is just 100km from the coast of Africa and its fine weather makes is an ideal year round destination. Fuerteventura is relatively unspolit and boasts over 150 beaches. For a fun day out, visit the La lajita Oasis Park with its outstanding Botanical Garden, parrot and sealine shows and even a camel safari! Popular resorts in Fuerteventura are Caleta de Fuste and Corralejo. Corralejo is one of the most popular and lively resorts on the Island of Fuerteventura. Once just a tiny fishing village, the harbour of Corralejo is now a bustling area with day trippers heading to Los Lobos Island and Playa Blanca in Lanzarote. The main street of Corralejo is Calle General which is lined with souvenir shops, cafes and bars. Corralejo's restaurants offer a wide choice, from English fish and chips to tacos or curry

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Golden Sands is one of the largest resorts along the Northern coast of Bulgaria. Golden Sands is famous for its hot water mineral springs and its long sandy beach. Watersports are available on the beach and there are plenty of bazaars, restaurants, bars, clubs and a casino for when night falls. Sample the Bulgarian cuisine at one of the local tavernas.

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http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/golden_sands.htm Sharm El Sheikh is a popular year round holiday resort and world-acclaimed dive centre. Between the two tourist districts of Old Sharm and Naama Bay there are a huge selection of shops, bazaars, restaurants, night clubs and casinos. Take a day trip into the desert and visit Mt Sinai and St Catherine's Monastery.

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Ayia Napa

Once a small fishing village in the south-eastern corner of Cyprus, Ayia Napa is now a hotspot for holidaymakers looking for a lively vacation - over 250,000 clubbers swarm into this party capital each summer and the phenomenal atmosphere in its scores of bars and nightclubs is nothing short of explosive. Located in the centre of the market garden area of the island, Ayia Napa also boasts a string of superb golden sandy beaches and vestiges of its cultural heritage - there is a Venetian decorated monastery fronted by a 600-year-old Sycamore tree, and a quaint harbour filled with colourful fishing vessels. Just a few miles from Ayia Napa, the resort of Protaras is more restrained and is much more suited to family holidays. Both resorts have excellent beaches, the most famous being Fig Tree Bay. Other popular beaches include Nissi Beach and Nissi Bay, two miles (3km) west of Ayia Napa; Cape Greco to the east, where the challenge is to leap from the rocks into the sea; and Konnos Bay, just past Cape Greco, where there is a beach café and speedboats for hire. Shopping in Ayia Napa is pure pleasure for locals and holidaymakers alike, with real bargains to be had particularly on designer goods. Top name watches, sunglasses, clothing, cameras and jewellery are available at prices up to 30 percent cheaper than in the United Kingdom. Shops and boutiques are generally small and friendly, opening until 11pm every night except Sundays. The local handcrafts make for good souvenir shopping, including beautiful embroidered Lefkara lace, original ceramic pottery, artistic silver jewellery, baskets, woven and silk goods and high quality leatherwear. Major credit cards are accepted everywhere. Variety is the spice of dining out in Ayia Napa, where countless restaurants specialise in a host of cuisines from around the world, everything from the romantic and traditional, to fast food and pub-grub being on offer, holidaymakers won't be disappointed. Whether it is a Big Mac, fish 'n chips, a Chinese or formal French you fancy, you won't have to go far to find it. Visitors are well advised to try the Cypriot fare, however, particularly in the delightful, traditional tavernas clustered around the harbour. Highly recommended is the typical Cypriot 'meze', made up of between 15 and 30 island dishes. Other local specialities include taramosalata, tsatsiki, moussaka, stifado (beef or veal stew), aphelia (pork and red wine), and loukoumades (doughnuts dipped in syrup). Holidaymakers in Ayia Napa soon learn that it is essential to plan an afternoon siesta, if they are to make the most of the sensational nightlife for which the resort has become world-renowned. The Cypriot's appreciation for the good life and good times comes to the fore after the sun sets, with bars, discos, nightclubs and bouzouki clubs open well into the early hours of the morning. Most hotels have their own nightly entertainment with a resident band, and Greek nights with folk dancing are offered. The resort's clubbing scene is legendary with big name DJ's appearing frequently at some of the popular clubs.

The extensive, silvery sandy beaches along the coast of Ayia Napa are washed with warm waters that provide a myriad of opportunities for watersports, including water-skiing, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, pedal boats, motor boats, parasailing, scuba diving and snorkelling. The Cyprus Tourism Organisation supervises the beaches, many of which have Blue Flag status. Holidaymakers can take excursions from Ayia Napa to places like Agia Thekla, four miles (6km) to the west, with a small offshore island, Makronisos Beach, a cluster of three sheltered bays, or to the historical city of Larnaca, 25 miles (40km) along the coast. Jeep safaris around the island itself are popular, with attractions like the Caledonian Falls and the Byzantine Monastery of Kykkos waiting to be explored. The island's position in the Mediterranean also lends itself to making excursions to other countries, even Jerusalem or Cairo, for a night or two of sightseeing.

Generally Ayia Napa is clean, well ordered and favoured by all types of holidaymakers. Those who do not enjoy noise and bright lights, however, are advised to stay clear of the central monastery square area, which is where most of the popular nightclubs are situated. The main clubbing season is between June and September, and during this period the resort is packed with young people from all over Europe. Older holiday makers may prefer to enjoy the resort during the ‘shoulder’ months (April, May, October and November), when the weather is still good, the sea relatively warm, but the tempo quieter. The island can be windy, but the geographic locations of the surrounding beaches means that it is possible to find a sheltered beach even on windy days. Nissi Beach tends to be overcrowded, but there are other beaches within easy reach where it is possible to enjoy peace and quiet.

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Enjoy a city break

Bucharest, Romania The majority of Bucharest’s architecture that you see today is made up of buildings that were constructed during the communist regime. Can you imagine that one-fifth of the city was actually demolished so that the Casa Poporului could be built in its place? Step back in time and visit the Village Museum. It is an interesting outdoor museum with a collection of more than 300 buildings that make up the history of Romania's rural architecture. Here you can see peasant homes, barns, wooden churches and Transylvanian houses that all recreate a village setting. Book your Bucharest hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Bucharest hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bucharest.htm Bern, Switzerland According to legend, Bern was named when its founder, Berchtold, was advised to go on a hunt and to name the town after the first beast caught. The bear has remained the symbol of the capital city ever since. One of the oldest and most charming cities in Europe, its old centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the preservation of its cobbled medieval street plan, with many ornate fountains, towers, a massive astronomical clock, and buildings much the same as they have been for the last 500 years. With its relaxed atmosphere, farmers markets and friendly people, it is easy to forget that this is the Swiss capital, an important city of politicians and international meetings. And with its interesting museums, theatres, long-standing monuments and landmarks Bern is a popular base from which to explore the mountains and lakes of the nearby Bernese Oberland. Book your Bern hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Bern hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/bern.htm Cannes, France Cannes, one of the best-known cities on the French Riviera. The famous and jet set flock to Cannes especially during the annual Cannes Film Festival. For beach lovers then there is Cannes sandy beach but remember that most of the beach areas are private and you will need to pay for access. The Le Suquet area is an original fishing village that has appealing narrow streets which climb up to the top where you can get a wonderful view of the city. Book your Cannes hotel online with Gtahotels.com and get the best rates for your Cannes hotel accommodation http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/cannes.htm

Billund Legoland

Thank you Anna for telling us about Legoland in Billund

Billund Legoland Legoland is the best place to spend your free time with children. I have to admit that is great place for visiting even if you are a grown up person and wish to have a little bit of entertainment. It can bring you in the world of fantasy and childhood. I have visited this amusement park with my friends and we had a lot of fun.

As far as I am concerned the best attraction in Legoland is roller coaster X-treme racers. The trolleys on the rollercoaster are in the shape of car and every trolley can accommodate 4 people. The rollercoaster has many turns and at one point it is passing through the dark tunnel. You can feel the wind in your hair and your ‘heart in your mouth’ while going down with a full speed. The water attraction that makes your heart beats faster is canoe trip. The trip passes through the wild river which finishes with a fall through the waterfall. Another exciting water attraction is Viking River Splash. You are being taken up in the Viking raft by the water elevator and then you are going down the waterfall. It is an unforgettable adventure into a dangerous river!

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Copenhagen- Christianhavn District

Thanks go to Anna in Customer Care for sharing Copenhagen with us...

The capital city of Denmark is atracting tourist from every corner of the world. Around 30% of the Danish citizens live in Copenhagen or around this metropolitan city. Copenhagen is known from its longest pedestrian street with great shopping places and many tourist atractions. Everybody has heard about Little Mermaid or about Hamlet Castle I would like to recommend soemthing different about Copenhagen: two attractions located in Christianshavn District namely Christiania and Church of our Saviour. Christinia is knows as Freetown Christinia an is very special place. Christiania was established in 1971 when a group of hippies have decided to set their own community in the abandoned military barracks. The community became completely independent from the danish governments. The community is situated in the heart of the city and is mostly known from its art whch is present everywhere in this small district. The distict ic coloreful and lively place and creates great diversity from the other attractions in Copenhagen. When you are going out from Christinia you can see interesting sign above your head which is stating that ‘You are now entering the EU’ Next to the Christinaia there is Church of Our saviour located. The construction of the church was completed in 1696 and it lasted around 14 years. The church was constructed in baroque style which is rather rare style to admire in Denmark. Of course the church presents uniqe altar and magnificent organ from 1968 however the most recommended place to visit is the Tower of Our saviour’s Church. The tower gives great opportunity to admire panoramic view of the Copenhagen.

The spire was constructed in 1752 however it was renovated many times during the centuries. The lenght of the tower is 90 metres and to get to the top you have to climb 400 hundred stairs. Climbing up the tower is a bit of experience and adventure. It can also be a little frightenning. The whole spire is built from oak which during windy water can shake a little. If you manage to survive this adventure and appears on the top you will be rewarded by possibility to admire breathtaking views of Copenhagen and shores od Sweden. Get the best rates when you book your Copenhagen hotels and tours online with Gtahotels. http://www.gtahotels.com/cities/copenhagen.htm http://www.gtahotels.com/activities/productdetails.php/SIC.2916CPH.htm