The sophisticated town of Mozart Salzburg – Austria

In the wonderful setting of the Austrian Alps is the town of Salzburg, a jewel of art and architecture built on the banks of the River Salzach.
The old Salzburg town is the triumph of rococo palaces which due to their ornate monuments being abstract and bizarre enough, has been classified as a heritage site by UNESCO. One of the most distinctive features are the Durchhäuser, old houses with communicating courtyards.

Salzburg

It was the powerful prince-bishops of Salzburg that made the city so enchanting, building so many spectacular churches, monuments and palaces.
The prince Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau, a descendant of the Medici family, nearly demolished an entire neighborhood to build two Italian centers which are now called Mozart and Residenzplatz joined together to form an ‘L’. The bishop also ordered the construction of the Cathedral of St. Rupert and the magnificent and imposing bishop’s palace the Residenz. However his most beautiful work was the Mirabell Palace built for his mistress Salome Alt and
 their sixteen children.

Salzburg Cathedral

His successor Bishop Prince von Markus Sitticus Hohenemseggia decided to build a palace outside the walls of Salzburg, Hellbrunn which still is one of the landmarks of Salzburg especially because of its large park consisting of formal gardens, games and countless water
fountains and choreography. The castle also had a small zoo which is still open to the public.

Hellbrunn

We can not speak of Salzburg without mentioning its most famous citizen, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who was born here in 1756. The city dedicated the Mozarteum a prestigious music academy to him. Salzburg also has one of the most important festivals of classical music and opera, which is held every year during summer.

Scotland is one of the most fascinating regions of Britain

Scotland is one of the most fascinating regions of Britain, the land of mist, with its castles and legendary heroes. Among the most beautiful places to visit without a doubt stands Edinburgh,
 the capital of this autonomous region rich in history.

    View from the center of Edinburgh, Scotland.

Your weekend in Edinburgh can only start from the wonderful medieval castle, a symbol of pride and spirit of the Scottish independence, which dominates the city since the eleventh century. Although over the centuries it has expanded and been renovated many times. The Edinburgh Castle houses and the Scottish Crown Jewels, which includes the wonderful royal crown,  the sceptre, the sword and the mysterious “Stone of  Destiny”, which came from the Holy Land. Before you leave do not forget to pay homage to the statues of  William Wallace
and Robert the Bruce, Scottish heroes of the resistance.

    View of the city of Edinburgh-Scotland

After visiting the castle you can devote the afternoon to investigating the local history by visiting the Museum and the Royal Museum of Scotland (in front of the entrance you will see the monument in honor of Greyfriars Bobby, a little terrier who spent fourteen years in the nineteenth century watching over the Tomb of his master).

The next day you can stroll through the Old Town of Edinburgh (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage). Along the Royal Mile and the High Street you will find many historic buildings, including the ancient City Chambers. If you love the thrill, ride for Mary King’s Close, the famous haunted street, or visit the Grassmarket, the execution grounds. Do not forget to drink a pint at “The Last Drop”, the historic pub where the condemned were led to drink the last drop.

    View of the castle, Edinburgh-Scotland

Lovers of royal dynasties should visit the Palace of Holyrood, the final resting place of the unfortunate Queen Mary Stuart, which is now one of the official residences of the English monarchs.

Among the many great things you can experience in Edinburgh is their cuisine. In fact, whether you decide to try specialties served at the local pubs, or the ones offered by the ethnic restaurants, it’s all the same as far as quality goes. Edinburgh has been ranked as one of the top 10 cities for its restaurants’ quality among European countries.

Edinburgh also hosts many interesting events such as the Military Tattoo, a re-enactment in the castle which is held every year in August. It’s the International Festival, dedicated to street performers.

Enchanting Dorset

The south coast of England may not be your initial thought when in search of the ideal holiday location but this beautiful part of the United Kingdom has so very much to offer visitors from the four corners of the world. Whether you are looking for fun and excitement in town, or the peace and tranquillity of the countryside, you will find it all in picturesque Dorset.

Bournemouth – The Cosmopolitan City by the Sea
Bournemouth is the ideal location to stay whilst on holiday in Dorset with Bournemouth International Airport just 15 minutes away by car, and Bournemouth train station offering frequent express train service to and from London, is 10 minutes away.  Bournemouth hotels are in great abundance in this seaside resort city so you will be spoilt for choice.  There is also a fabulous selection of excellent restaurants, bars and pubs to enjoy, so whether you are looking for international cuisine such Chinese, Italian, Indian, Japanese, or Mediterranean, you’ll find everything right here on your doorstep, and usually within walking distance of your hotel.

Bournemouth Beach
There are many wonderful places to go in Bournemouth beginning with the seven miles of sandy beaches that are some of the cleanest and most environmentally aware in the country, winning a Green Tourism award in 2009.  The Bournemouth beaches have also been awarded International Blue Flag status since 1996, recognising high standards in water quality, safety and services, environmental management and environmental education. These beaches include: Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk,

Corfe Village and Castle

Corfe Village is a wonderfully historic and quaint little location to visit.  Perched high atop the Purbeck hills and overlooking the village sit the striking ruins of Corfe Castle, especially magnificent during the sunrise on a foggy morn, and a sight not to be missed during your stay in Bournemouth.   You can even take a guided tour to hear of the history of this ancient location.

Hengistbury Head

A popular tourist location for those who enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, Hengistbury Head is noted as an area of outstanding beauty and home to a large nature reserve that has been designated as a site of special scientific interest.  It is his home to a huge variety of birdlife as well as other species of wildlife, and often dolphins can be spotted playing out at sea from the cliff-tops above.

The New Forest
Visiting the New Forest you’ll be treated to not only beautiful natural landscape but also gorgeous traditional thatched cottages and sprawling country manors.  Historically, William the Conqueror used the area as a hunting ground which he named, ‘new hunting forest’.  These days all are welcome to enjoy the many attractions of the New Forest which include cycling, horse-riding  and hiking to visits to The New Forest Wildlife Park, Beaulieu National Motor Museum, Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway, the Georgian High Street at Lymington and seaside fun at Milford on Sea and Barton on Sea.

Ocean holidays 2012 | Maldives and Seychelles

Imagine white sand beaches that are lined with palm trees with indulge on blue waters and with
a picturesque view. Turn the post cards to reality by availing your Ocean holidays this 2012.

    Ocean side of Maldives

It is not hard to see why a lot of people prefer spending their holidays in the ocean. This is extremely popular for those who are travelers that are looking for a place to relax. There are several destinations where you can go from the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Mauritius and more. One will have a diverse choice when it comes to holidays in the sea. There are some exotic destinations that are memorable.

    Resorts in Maldives

Most people who seek ocean holidays are couples. This is due to the fact that most destinations are perfect for walks and lazy days beside the sea. There are some places that offer more activities like hiking. Great holidays in Maldives or Seychelles are definitely on the top of the list this year. You can find some deals that are proven to be affordable. All you need to do is research.

    Maldives

There are various things that you can do there. It will open your world to endless possibilities. Whatever pleases your personality can certainly be found in whatever destination you prefer.

    Seychelles Beach

For those who love shopping, then you can find some beachside bargains that are selling great bargains. If you love water sports activities, there are great places that offer snorkeling, diving, sailing, surfing, jet skis and a lot more. For couples out there, you can spend two weeks under the sun in the best beach out there.Wherever you want to go, opt for a destination that promises good weather. There are some that are popular especially during summer and winter. With regards to flights and accommodations, it is not a problem because there are deals that include this aspect of the trip.

    Seychelles Ocean View

Online is where you can find a lot of packages that are cheap which includes both. You can also find good ones where entertainment is a part of the deal. There are tour operators that are offering the best deal no matter which destination you choose. You can also find packages that are luxurious but inexpensive. You should keep an eye on this.  It is best to choose a destination that is renowned for the hotels and the attractions that it offers. You can find self catering and all inclusive options that are best if you are seeking for great ocean holidays this year.

What to see in Riga, Latvia

Riga is the capital city of Latvia and it the center of the Baltic States. The city is a cross road between east and west Europe. This is the reason why it is attractive for a lot of businessmen. During the 14th and the 15th century, it became an important trading center. Nowadays it is still considered as an important junction where there are harbors, airports and railway systems. These infrastructures have turned the city into a center for industrial jobs and businesses in the Baltic area. Riga is also popular by its cultural values. There cultural events and seminars that are taking place in the city are rich in every manner.

    Riga

If you want a place to relax then you can visit the Daugavmala. This is very popular among the locals. The annual celebration during the summer is called Jani. It is considered to be a sacred holiday for the Latvian. Night activities include singing of songs around the bon fire. Part of the tradition includes beer and seed cheeses. During the 19th century, the most popular activity that was held was the Umurkumurs. This is considered as huge market and festival. Today it is a busy street for locals and tourist alike. The government made huge pavement so no one can walk near the bank.

    Daugavmala

Bastejkalns is a peaceful park found in the center of the city. At one side you can find the liberty monument and on the other side is where you can find the Blaumanis sculpture. You would want to see the Televison tower of Riga since it is the highest building in the area. It is even higher than the Eiffel tower. Before the tower there is a restaurant called the “Rose of Wind”, which is found in the tower. The first floating bridge that was constructed shouldn’t be missed. The House of Blackheads is considered an architectural treasure of the city.

    Televison tower of Riga