Tourists along with the city’s populace then throng the numerous joyfully illuminated shops, restaurants and bars to revel in the immensely festive ambience. If you are planning to be in London with your family for the Christmas holidays then you will not be disappointed for aside from the millions of twinkling Christmas lights, London also offers a plethora of ‘Christmassy’ events to keep all the family happy.

1. Santa’s Grottos

Your children will love the chance to visit jolly Santa at the various Santa’s Grotto’s which are constructed all over London at popular stores like Harrods’s, Selfridges and Hamley’s. This year the Santa’s Grotto at Harrods celebrates the seventieth anniversary of the movie the Wizard of Oz and accordingly sports a décor that depicts scenes from the movie. Tickets sales for the Santa’s Grotto at Harrods have been on sale online at the store’s website since September.

At Selfridges, the Santa’s Grotto usually features a Santa Express which offers train rides for children through a winter wonderland that features real to life polar bears and penguins. Not to be outdone Hamley’s the greatest toy store in the world offers a ‘Breakfast or tea with Santa Claus’ every day until the 24th of December. This event cannot be booked online but you can reserve a spot for your kids by calling the store’s hotline at 0844 855 2424 once you are in London. Other Santa’s Grotto’s can be found at Kew Gardens, Canary Wharf and various other shopping centers located all over London.

2. Winter Wonderland

London’s iconic patch of green – Hyde Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland from Saturday, 21st November until 3rd January and this spectacular, magical Christmas playground will feature attractions like the largest ice skating rink in the city, the Zippos Christmas circus, a giant Ferris wheel equipped with heated pods, a thrilling Santa Land and a traditional German Christmas Market. A similar Winter Wonderland will be constructed in the renowned London suburb of Wimbledon which will feature a fireworks display, a parade which will feature, Miss Christmas and Santa Clause and many other festivities.

3. Ice Skating

Outdoor Ice skating rinks appear all over London during the festive season and offer hours of entertainment for ice skating enthusiasts of all ages. These outdoor ice skating rinks can be found at many major London landmarks like Somerset House, Alexandra Palace, The Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Canary Wharf, Wembley Stadium, and the Natural History Museum.

4. Pantomimes and Theater Shows

Pantomimes are a typical English Christmas tradition that consists of performances where men dress as fat ugly women and women star as male leads. Traditional family ‘pantos’ as they are popularly known as contain song, dance, comedy, slapstick, magic, innuendo-riddled word-play, cross-dressing and enthusiastic audience participation. This year’s Christmas Pantomime schedule in London features shows such as Aladdin, Cinderella, Mother Goose and Dick Whittington which will be held at various venues all over the city. Aside from these Christmas pantos, London’s Christmas theater schedule also includes performances by the English National Ballet which will perform the traditional Christmas favorite, the Nutcracker as well as other perennial favorites like the Snow Queen and Giselle at the London Coliseum.

5. Christmas Trees, Christmas Lights and Christmas Carols

The Christmas events in London also include ceremonies that are held ‘to switch on’ the city’s famed Christmas Lights that adorn London’s famed shopping districts like Oxford Street and Regent Streets. These ceremonies are usually held in early November and feature many well- known celebrities who are given the honor to switch on these lights.

The Trafalgar Square Christmas tree is London’s most famous Christmas tree. This tree is presented to the city of London every year by Norway as a gesture of appreciation for the help that the British gave the Norwegians during the Second World War. The gifted tree is usually approximately 20 meters high and over half a century old. The tree lighting ceremony for the Trafalgar square tree usually takes place on the first Thursday in December.

The site of the Trafalgar Square Christmas tree then becomes popular spot for Christmas caroling as various groups assemble at the base of the tree for two weeks in December to sing Christmas carols for various fund raising efforts. So if you and your family enjoy this traditional Christmas time activity you can head out to the Trafalgar Square to spread some Christmas cheer.

Photo of Santa Claus and the London Tower Bridge by Pineapplebun

Christmas is one of the most eagerly anticipated holidays in London. The Christmas break in London usually extends over four days and features cheerful family get-togethers that are characterized by much feasting and gift- exchanging.

Gift exchanging is an important tradition of the Christmas celebrations though shopping for gifts for friends and family is often considered by some folk to be a highly stressful experience as they have to battle hordes of other shoppers in the high street stores which are always jam packed during the festive season. For this reason London, like many other cities around the world hosts animated Christmas markets which give shoppers the opportunity to do all their Christmas shopping in one spot.

The Greenwich Christmas Market

Maritime Greenwich is a World Heritage Site which is situated on the bank of the River Thames in South East London. This area is famous for historic landmarks like the National Maritime Museum, the Royal Observatory, home of Greenwich Mean Time and the Meridian Line and its Greenwich Market. The Greenwich Market is a covered market which is made up of nearly 120 stalls whose vendors are market traders, up and coming artists and crafts people who retail their works at the market and make it London’s best source for unique gifts , arts and crafts and antiques. The Greenwich Market hosts a special Christmas market every year that features live entertainment, Christmas lights and various other festivities. This Christmas market will be launched this year on Friday, 27th November. Besides the Greenwich Christmas Market, other popular London markets like Camden Market and Carnaby Street also host Christmas Markets which are extremely popular with shoppers they feature products like exclusive jewelry, bespoke fashion items, toys which are perfect as gifts and stocking stuffers.

London Hotel in Greenwich : Holiday Day Inn Greenwich London

Covent Garden Christmas Market

Traditional British Christmas foods like mince pies, Christmas pudding, Figgy puddings and cider are a big part of the Christmas revelry. London’s Convent Garden market which hosts the popular Real Foods Market all year long also has a special Christmas themed market for the festive season which features several traditional British Christmas delicacies which are sourced from local farmers, artisan producers and vendors. The Convent Garden Christmas market also features much live entertainment and music and is open every Thursday and Friday until December 18th for the Christmas season. Similar Christmas food markets are held at London’s other popular foodie heavens like Borough Market, the Slow Food Market at the South Bank and the Cabbages and Frocks Market at Marylebone High Street.

London Hotel near Covent Garden : Euro Hotel

Festive Fairs

Along with specialty Christmas Markets, London also hosts several annual festive fairs like the Country Living Magazine Christmas Fair and The British Red Cross Christmas Fair which offer shoppers an additional avenue to shop for gifts for all the family from a wide range of vendors. Both these fairs are held in mid-November and provide early birds a chance to get all their Christmas shopping done before the traditional rush starts.

Christmas Shopping on London’s High Streets

London’s most famous shopping districts like Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street which are collectively known as the West End are usually all dressed up for Christmas adorned as they are with elaborate illumination displays which are popularly known ‘Christmas Lights’. These Christmas Lights are switched on by celebrities at special ceremonies which are held in early November and these lights usually stay on until early January. All the famous British stores that are located here like Marks and Spencer’s, Fortnum and Mason, Selfridges and Hamley’s have their own Christmas promotions and events for the festive season but one of the best days to shop at these stores is on the Traffic Free Shopping Day London which this year is scheduled for Saturday 5th December. On this day, the entire West End like it has for the past five years is transformed into a huge car free pedestrian shopping zone that features much entertainment and festivities along with its many shopping opportunities.

Hotel in London’s West End : The Summer Hotel

Photo of Christmas store in London, UK,  by JohnBurke

However the biggest explosion of this kind of revelry seemed to occur on the Spanish island of Ibiza.

Ibiza unlike its other Balearic island neighbors, Mallorca, Menorca and Formentera has a distinct ‘party animal’ and ‘boho’ vibe. Moreover it has long reigned as the party capital of the world as some of the best and most highly rated nightclubs are located here. Ibiza’s nightclubs are largely concentrated on two areas on this beautiful Island, around the capital of Ibiza town on the eastern shore and the resort town of Sant Antoni on the western shore. These clubs are usually packed to the gills with revelers during the warm Ibiza summers that extend from June to October though during the winter months most of these clubs down their shutters and hibernate.

So which are the clubs that rule the roost in Ibiza currently?

• Space – the world’s best club

Space has been consistently voted the ‘Best Club’ in the world by no less than the world’s top DJs. The club was initially built on a converted car park and it was subsequently redesigned so that today the world’s greatest DJ’s, spin tunes from its famous Space decks from where the sound is transmitted through out the club by way of a top of the line sound system. DJ Carl Cox hosts a special Tuesday night techno music marathon at the club during the ‘clubbing’ season and the club’s season opening and closing nights are like mini dance festivals that are known to attract more than 20,000 clubbers. Sunday nights though are the most popular nights at Space.

• Club Pacha – an institution

Club Pacha is a veritable institution on the Ibiza nightclub scene. This club was first established on a beach in Stiges in 1967 and it arrived in Ibiza in 1973. Since then it has spawned a global franchise that includes Pacha clubs in cities like New York, London and Buenos Aires. Pacha Ibiza stays open all year round and currently has popular Australian DJ Sarah Main as one of its main resident DJ’s. World renowned DJs like Peter Tong and David Morales have all enjoyed stints at Ibiza’s legendary Club Pacha.

• Privilege – the world’s biggest club.

Touted to be the biggest club in the world not only in Ibiza, Privilege has played host to many an international celebrity including P. Diddy, Madonna and Ibiza’s resident celebrity Jade Jagger. This gargantuan club which is topped with a 25 meter high ceiling is situated on the road between Sant Antoni and Ibiza Town. Privilege is adorned with tall windows that afford gorgeous vistas of the island and the club also houses a swimming pool. Due to its large size, the club can be changed around easily, thus Privilege promises a brand new experience to its patrons nightly.

Photo of Pacha Club Ibiza, Balearic Islands, by Roberto Castano

Prostitution is often referred to as the ‘oldest profession in the world’ and whether you agree or not it seems to hold a weird fascination for many people as a result of which the districts where prostitutes ply their trade are considered to be major tourist attractions and revenue generators as well.

In Europe, prostitution in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Turkey has been legalized and it is now regulated as well. In some other European countries like Slovenia, Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovnia etc prostitution is however still considered to be illegal. In the Netherlands, where prostitution is a legal profession, prostitutes of either sex are known as ’sex workers’. Dutch prostitutes are treated like any other self employed individual as a result they have to pay income tax and in return they also have access to the country’s social security system. Moreover these sex workers who work in the sex industry are not required to register or undergo mandatory health checks and are also free to join unions. In spite of all these measures the Netherlands still continues to grapple with the problem of human trafficking as much of its sex worker population is made up of foreign born people.

Amsterdam

Much of the Netherlands’s sex industry is concentrated around the oldest part and most historic part of the city of Amsterdam which is known as ‘De Wallen‘. The area is in close proximity to the city’s Centraal railway station. The area is a network of narrow streets and alleys and is crossed by several canals. De Wallen is a major tourist attraction as located here are several tiny one room apartments which are rented or owned by prostitutes who peddle their wares from behind a window or glass door which is illuminated by a red light. Though the area is a magnet for petty criminals, drug lords and mobsters it is generally safe and clean and is often patrolled by police officers. Apart from the world famous ‘ windows ‘ of De Wallen, the area also has live sex theaters/bars which are seem to be a favorite with young men who choose to come to Amsterdam from all over Europe on ‘stag nights‘ .

In fact a stroll around the De Wallen is a recommended tourist attraction in Amsterdam as this lively area is home to many bars, restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, hostels, coffee shops, sex shops (Absolute Danny is one such sex shop located here which is a classy joint run entirely by women), a sex museum, a cannabis museum as well as the famous Oude Kerk church and a farmer’s market . The area is popular with both locals many of whom in fact live here and all kinds of tourists and is accessible by everyone except of course young children.

Hamburg

Like Amsterdam, the German city of Hamburg also has a well defined and world famous ‘Red Light district‘ called the ‘Reeperbahn‘ which located near the Hamburg harbor in an area called Sankt Pauli. The word’ reeperbahn’ itself means Rope Street and it refers to the people who made ropes for the ships through the ages. The area is a mile long strip of entertainment which is known for its many bars like the Irish bar called Thomas Reades which is a popular hangout for men on their bachelor parties and its historic restaurants like Grosse Frieheit 36 and the Star Club where in fact the iconic Beatles performed and which continues to be a popular performance venue for many groups until today. Of course the area is also home to several sex shops, peep shows, an Erotic museum, transvestite shows but it also has theaters like the “Schmidt” or the “Operettenhaus” which attracts the local residents to the area as well. The Hamburg tourist department has organized walking tours of the Reeperbahn which are a great tourist attraction.

While visiting any of these renowned Red light districts it is useful to remember that many joints in the area charge exorbitant admission charges for sex shows where drinks are also outrageously priced so it is quite possible to blow your entire evening’s entertainment budget in a few hours. Also these areas are also hotbeds of petty crime where pickpockets and such abound so it is best to be vigilant as you take in the unique sounds and sights of these immensely colorful neighborhoods.

Photo of Amsterdam Red Light District by Stuck In Customs  

Like all the other Canary islands Lanzarote is also volcanic in character. In fact its crater filled landscape island has often been described as being ‘lunar-like’ or ‘Martian’ in appearance. The dry climate of the island has perfectly preserved the lava fields that were created here after a series of long explosions that rocked the island from 1730 to 1736. Since these explosions were one of the longest recorded explosions in history, the island is also referred to as the ‘Fire Island’. While this rugged volcanic landscape dominates the southern part of Lanzarote, the northern part of the island is oddly verdant covered as it is with lush, green valleys.

Lanzarote is a favorite with holiday makers who flock here to enjoy its year round temperate climate, where temperatures rarely dip below 22ºC (72ºF). To cater to all these tourists, are a number of resorts have developed all over the island with the most popular ones being Costa Teguise, Matagorda, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca. However tourists on Lanzarote don’t just head out to the island for its resorts and amiable weather, they also go to take in its many fascinating attractions. The UN in fact declared the entire island as a Biosphere in 1993 due to presence of various enchanting spots most of which have been created by nature.

1. Relax on the splendid Lanzarote Beaches

Lanzarote has a wide array of contrasting beaches which range from the white sand beaches of Orzola in the north and Papagayo in the south to the golden sands of the resort town of Puerto Del Carmen and the black sand beach at Playa Quemada. Many of Lanzarote’s beaches like Playa Chica, Famara , La Santa and Las Cucharas are also hubs of water based recreational activities like diving, wind surfing, jet skiing, parasailing and body boarding.

2. Take a Tour of Timanfaya National Park

The Timanfaya National Park is a man-made park which contains the famed Montañas del Fuego (Fire Mountains) which were created when more than 100 volcanoes erupted on the island in the mid 18th century. The last of these explosions took place in 1824 and in 1968 the entire area with its perfectly conserved lava fields was declared as a national park. However you cannot just walk around the volcanoes that are located within this national park but have to tour them aboard a coach or on the back of a camel. The guided coach tour of the volcanoes is included in your admission fee of eight Euros which you pay to get access to the park. The park also has within its environs more than 180 species of rare plants and a restaurant called ‘El Diablo’ where you can enjoy local cuisine which is cooked for you using the geothermal heat that emanates from the geysers of the lava field.

3. Take an Excursion to La Cueva de los Verdes

This network of underground caves is located near the Monte de la Corona in the northern part of Lanzarote. This strange formation was also formed by intense volcanic activity which took place nearly five thousand years ago on the island when massive lava flows streamed into the sea and hardened in places which were inflated by gases. These underground caves stretch for over four miles though only those that extend over a mile are accessible to visitors. The caves are suitably illuminated to highlight their unique features.

4. Visit the Jameos del Agua

The Jameos del Agua is a part of the seven km long volcanic tunnel known that contains the Cueve dos los Verdes. This volcanic tunnel which was formed by the flowing of molten lava into the sea developed openings which were caused when the surface of the tunnel collapsed due to pressure build up of the volcanic gases. These openings were discovered in 1968 by Jesus Soto and Luis Morales who christened these open air caves as ‘Jameos’ and proceeded to turn them into an attraction by building a bar, a tropical garden, an azure pool and an six hundred seat auditorium within these openings.

5. Visit The Jardin de Cactus

This unusual attraction represents an amalgamation of art and nature created as it was by Lanzarote’s native son, the celebrated artist Cesar Manrique. This cactus garden which was created in the midst of an old quarry shaped like an amphitheater was the artist’s last work. The garden consists of more than 10,000 different kinds of cacti which were sourced from the Canary Islands, America and Madagascar. It also features sculptures and a restored windmill and is considered to be one of the main attractions of Lanzarote.

Photo of Jameos del Agua, Canary Island,  by Doug88888

Film festivals are held throughout the year in various cities of the world like Berlin, Venice, Park City and Toronto. These festivals generally attract members of the film fraternity, film students and enthusiasts. However the Cannes Film Festival, which is held in the palm tree-lined seaside resort of Cannes on the French Riviera in May every year, attracts the attention of not only film makers and actors but also that of the paparazzi and the world’s glitterati. This twelve day event is considered to be as glamorous and as newsworthy as prime event of the film world namely the Academy Awards or ‘the Oscars’.

When is the Cannes Film Festival

This year the Cannes Film Festival will be held from the 13th to 24th of May in the stunningly beautiful city of Cannes.

Getting to Cannes

The best way to get to Cannes is to fly into the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport and then take a shuttle bus which gets you the bus station in Cannes in about half an hour depending on the traffic. You can even choose to book a taxi for the trip or even avail of the brand new motorcycle transfer service. However if money is not an object then the best way to get to Cannes is via helicopter service from the Nice airport.

Accommodation in Cannes.

Most of the Hollywood bigwigs choose to stay in around the main festival zone on the tony Boulevard La Croisette which is the most famous street in Cannes renowned for its many chi-chi stores and splendid restaurants.

The Festival Zone

The epicenter of the festival is the grand Palais des Festivals et des Congrès which is the located on the Riviera. This grand exhibition space has many screening rooms and no less then eighteen auditoriums. The famous Cannes red carpet is laid out on steps of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès and this site becomes the cynosure of the world’s eyes for the entire duration of the festival as elegantly attired glamorous celebrities walk the red carpet every evening on their way to the various screenings to the delight of the paparazzi and the numerous star gazers who assemble there. The Festival Zone also includes the International Village which has country specific pavilions that showcase different artistic exploits of the various countries who participate in the festival.

Accreditations

Unlike other film festivals though Cannes is strictly a film fraternity affair and in order to attend screenings and other festival events you are required to have an accreditation. The general public cannot access official festival venues which are limited to only members of the film industry and the press. However some film enthusiasts and film students can get access to the festival events through the Cannes Cinéphiles program.

The Films

Several movie makers choose to have the world premieres of their movies at the Cannes Film Festival. The world premieres of movies like Kung Fu Panda, Vicky Cristina Barcelona, and Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull were all held at the last Cannes Film Festival.

There are several sections in which the many films are screened these include Films in Competition (Compétition), Films out of Competition (Hors Compétition), World Cinema (Un Certain Regard), Cinéfondation (which is the competitive category for short and medium length films), etc.

The Festival also includes events like the ‘Quinzaine des Réalisateurs’ which is the Directors fortnight and the ‘Semaine Internationale de la Critique’ or International Critics Week and the ‘Marché du Film’ which is a industry event mainly held for the buying and selling of films.

The Grand Prize

If the Academy Awards award an Oscar to Best Picture, at Cannes the Best Picture is awarded with the prestigious Palme D’Or which is a gold palm statuette that quite fittingly symbolizes the many palm trees that line the boulevards of festival’s destination.

Photo of the Cannes Film Festival by unsure shot

1. Museo Guggenheim Bilbao

The main attraction Bilbao is undoubtedly its rather controversial Bilbao Guggenheim Museum, which opened its doors to the public in 1997. This Frank Ghery designed futuristic building which is covered in titanium and resembles a giant metallic flower is both admired and abhorred by the locals. Thousands however flock to the museum annually to take in its magnificent contemporary art exhibits which are spread over three floors and include the works of famed twentieth century artists like Eduardo Chillida, Yves Klein, Willem de Kooning, Robert Motherwell, Robert Rauschenberg, James Rosenquist, Clyfford Still, Antoni Tàpies, and Andy Warhol as well as works of local Basque artists and travelling exhibits from the other Guggenheim collections in New York, Venice and Berlin.

2. Museo de Belle Artes

If contemporary art is not your thing, can always head out to the Museo de Belle Artes which is located in the city’s Doña Casilda Iturrizar park. This nondescript building is a veritable treasure trove of paintings, drawings, engravings and sculptures that date from the 12th to the 20th century. The rich collection at this small museum features works by renowned masters like El Greco, Goya, Paul Gauguin, Picasso and Velazquez amongst others. Though if you are an art aficionado and wish to visit both the Guggenheim and the Museo de Belle Artes , you should invest in a Bono Artean ticket which gives you admission to both museums at a combined reduced rate of 12 Euros. This Bono Artean ticket is available at the box offices of both museums.

3. Museo Taurino

Bilbao is considered to a gateway to the town of Pampalona which is famous for its annual festival that features the‘running of the bulls’. Bilbao, itself has hosted bullfights ever since the seventeenth century. To learn about bullfighting in Bilbao you should visit the main arena in Bilbao, Alegre that has a museum devoted to bullfighting located adjacent to it. At this museum you will have the chance to see displays that highlight the various accouterments of this gory sport like the matador’s richly embellished costumes, capes, swords and ancient posters that were used to advertise the fights.

4. Bilboko Udala- Bilbao City Hall

Bilbao’s stately city hall building was designed by Joaquin Rucoba in 1892. This neo baroque building which is topped by a spire and has a magnificent façade of balconies and columns is located in the Plaza Erkoreka Ernesto. The main attraction of this building is its opulently decorated ‘Salon Arabe’ or Arab room which is used for conducting civil marriage ceremonies. The best way to explore the city hall is to book one of the offered guided tours however these usually have to be booked in advance.

5. Teatro Arriaga

This magnificent building which is the site for theatre in Bilbao was also designed by Joaquin Ruboca in 1890 who fashioned it on the Paris Opera House. The theatre which was named after Juan Crosótomo de Arriaga, a composer from Bilbao was almost destroyed by a devastating fire in December 1914. It was then rebuilt by an architect called Federico de Ugalde who renewed and strengthened the elaborately decorated structure. The theater today hosts a wide range of shows within its sumptuously adorned rich interiors.

Photo of the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, Spain by Nad Renrel

Several cities and resorts in Provence, like Monaco, Cap Ferrat and St Tropez are choice destinations of the international jet set and are often written up in the tabloids and travel magazines but there are many other cities of Provence which have successfully retained their quaint old world charm that should be explored on any visit to the region.

1. Aix-en-Provence

Aix en Provence was the capital of Provence in the 15th century. The Romans founded Aix in 123BC and fashioned it after the city of Florence. Aix is an important center for art and culture and the city has hosted several creative souls like Guigou, Stendhal, Mistral, Zola, and Cézanne through the ages. Aix is known for its old ornate mansions, flower filled squares and flamboyant fountains all of which have been preserved and restored carefully. Every summer, the International Festival of Lyric Art fills Aix’s narrow shaded streets with the wondrous sounds.

2. Avignon

The fortified city of Avignon with its famed bridge which has been immortalized forever in the song ‘Sur le pont d’Avignon’ was once the favorite stomping ground of the Popes. The city even has a magnificent palace called the Palace of the Popes which overlooks its lively main square. Avignon today is well known for its Theater Festival that is held here during the month of July.

3. Arles

The city of Arles is located on the banks of the River Rhône and is a UNESCO designated World Heritage site that dates back to the 7th Century BC when it was a prominent Gallo-Roman town. In fact various Roman ruins like the Arena, the amphitheater, the Roman baths of Constantin and the Alyscamps burial grounds are scattered all over the city. The Dutch artist Vincent Van Gogh spent nearly a year in Arles in the company of his fellow artist and friend Paul Gaugain in 1888. His stay in Arles was most productive as he was greatly inspired by the immense beauty of this medieval city to create nearly two hundred works.

4. Saint-Rémy de Provence

This beautiful Gallo-Roman village is located in heart of the Alpilles and is encircled by a 14th century protective wall. Saint Rémy is built on one of the oldest archeological sites in Europe and should be considered a ‘must-visit’ on any Provence itinerary. Vincent Van Gogh, spent time in a sanitarium located here in 1889. He was so inspired by the village’s scenic beauty that he produced one of his most famous works called the ‘Starry Night’ during his confinement. Apart from its historical significance, Saint Rémy is also well known for its many charming restaurants and shops and it is also the home of world-famous artisan chocolatier, Joel Durand who uses several native ingredients like lavender, Provence almonds and olives to create his mouth-watering treats.

5. Menton

The port city of Menton is located on the southern eastern tip of France. Its location on the Mediterranean has blessed Menton with a year round agreeable climate which is conducive to growing flowers and citrus fruits. Orange trees, lemon trees, palm trees and mimosa are found in abundance in Menton which is known for its luxuriant gardens. Menton pays homage to its delicious citrus fruits with its colorful, parade-filled Lemon Festival which is held all over the city for three weeks every February.

Photo of fountain in Aix-en-Provence, France by mac ki

Enzo Ferrari was a former racing car driver who during his lifetime created many sports cars including the first Ferrari race car which won the British Grand Prix in 1952. After this first Grand Prix win, Ferrari went on to dominate the world of Formula 1 racing and in the recently concluded 2008 season, team Ferrari driver, Felipe Massa finished second after champion Lewis Hamilton though Ferrari went on to win its 16th constructors title with its F2008 race car. Ferrari has also recently unveiled its F60 in preparation for the 2009 season.

Over the years as Formula 1 racing has become immensely popular and team Ferrari which has been headed by great drivers like Niki Lauda, the almost invincible Michael Schumarcher and current team leader Kimi Raikonen have contributed greatly to the cult like following that brand Ferrari enjoys today. If you are a sports car lover and do follow Formula 1 racing then perhaps you should consider making a perhaps once in a life time trip to Maranello, the home of Ferrari S.p.A. and the Scuderia Ferrari Formula One racing team.

1. Visit Ferrari S.p.A.

The main Ferrari factory which is located on Via Abetone is out of bounds for the general public though guided tours are sometimes offered for dealers and their customers so if you are not a cherished Ferrari owner you can kiss that tour goodbye though you can have a peek at the factory’s entrance hall which is open to all. The entrance hall often has displays of current production sleek and sexy sports cars and powerful Formula1 race cars.

2. Visit the Scuderia Ferrari

Ferrari’s hallowed racing car department is located on Via Ascari , a street which is named after Ferrarri’s first Formula 1 champion Alberto Ascari. This establishment is also heavily guarded but at least here you have a chance of espying test models of Ferrari race cars as they traverse between the factory gate and the Pista di Fiorano, which is Ferrari’s private test race track that is located at the end of Via Ascari. These test cars often use the Via Fornace, Via Dino Ferrari located near the Galleria Ferrari and Via Ascari to get to the Pista.

3. Visit the Galleria Ferrari

There is no need to skulk about near the Galleria Ferrari for this Ferrari museum is accessible to the public. You can gain admission into its hallowed interiors after you have paid the single adult admission charge of 13 Euros(2009 prices). At this Ferrari museum, which is located on Via Dino Ferrari you can totally immerse yourself in the various Ferrari exhibits which include a constantly changing display of forty Ferrari models, trophies, engines, photographs and production models . You can also trace the evolution of Ferrari by observing recreated models of Enzo Ferrari’s shop and residence in Modena which preceded the creation of the Maranello factory. The museum is filled to the brim with Ferrari memorabilia including vintage posters and even Enzo Ferrari’s desk and reading glasses. There is even small projection room that continuously shows racing footage as well as a life size race pit and two simulators (a GT and an F1) on which you can try out your driving skills by paying an additional 5 Euros. A gift shop is also located within the Galleria Ferrari where you can shop for official Ferrari merchandise. Galleria Ferrari also has a bookshop which sells several publications associated with the Ferrari brand, a coffee shop and a Photo point where you can arrange to take a souvenir photo of your visit to the museum.

4. Eat and drink Ferrari

Ristorante il Cavallino located on Via Abetone across the factory is known to be a favored pit stop of Ferrari engineers and managers and if you want to bask in their hallowed presence this is the ideal place for you to grab a bite. Ristotorante Montana is another such institution which is often frequented by Formula 1 drivers though it is not technically in Maranello but in the town of Fiorano. Ferrari’s famous test race track is in fact visible from the restaurant.

5. Shop Ferrari

Though both the Galleria Ferrari and the Ferrari factory both have official Ferrari merchandise stores, there are number of other stores like ‘Warm Up Ferrari’, ‘Hors Ligne’ and ‘Shopping Formula 1’ that also sell a wide range of Ferrari memorabilia like T-shirts, caps, models, key rings, all of which would be perfect as souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family from your visit to Maranello.

Photo of Ferrari logo by Gaetan Lee

Turin Chocopass

Turin has been producing chocolates for over three centuries and the origins of Turin’s chocolate -making art can be traced back to the year 1678, when Madame Reale, who was then the Queen of the Savoy state, granted the first ever “license” to Turinese chocolate maker Giò Antonio Ari to make chocolates. Thus began the city’s love affair which chocolate which continues until this day. So much so that the Turin Tourist board has even created a special ‘Chocopass’ which you can buy on your visit to Turin, in order to sample the many mouth-watering wares of the Turinese chocolatiers. This Chocopass is currently priced at 12 Euros and entitles you to 22 delicious tastings at various historic cafes of Turin like Al Bicerin and Café Platti. Moreover you can stagger your tastings over three days so that you don’t get fed up of eating all that delicious chocolate in one day.

The chocolates created by these Turinese chocolatiers are truly special and include several specialties like the Gianduiotto which is a shaped like an upturned boat and crafted out of sugar, cocoa and hazelnut paste, the Baci di Cherasco (Cherasco Kisses) which are made with dark chocolate and hazelnuts , the Alpino which contain a heavenly liquor cream and are named after the hats worn by an Italian military regiment and the Bicerin, which is a truly decadent layered hot chocolate drink which also contains coffee.

Seduction and Chocolate

Apart from the Chocopass, Turin also celebrates this heavenly food of the gods at an annual celebration known as Cioccolatò which is held all over the city with an epicenter at Piazza Vittorio Veneto. This year this chocolate extravaganza will be held from Friday, the 6th March 2009 to Sunday the 15th of March and will include a wide array of chocolate flavored events which will celebrate the festival’s central theme,‘seduction by chocolate’ with a special emphasis on the feminine side.

The festival like in the previous years will feature famous chocolatiers from all over Italy and the world who will exhibit their scrumptious products at stalls which will be erected on Piazza Vittorio Veneto. You will then be able to sample a vast variety of heavenly delicacies as you stroll among the various stalls. It is estimated that the approximately 700,000 thousand guests that visit Cioccolatò every year consume nearly 30,000 kilos of the sweet, dark endorphin-releasing delight at the festival itself.

Apart from the tastings the festival will feature several special events which examine the marriage of chocolate with various foods and drinks, like chocolate and coffee, tea and chocolate, herbs and chocolate, almonds and chocolate, fruits and chocolate and the bizarre combination of cheese, olive oil, pepper and chocolate among others. These events will be held on various days of the ten day festival.

Women and Chocolate

Cioccolatò 2009, whose theme emphasizes the female connection with chocolate, will also feature a ‘Dinner for Chocolate’ which will showcase the talents of female chefs and women wine sommeliers. Yet another female centric event on the festival program will be a seminar called Women and Chocolate, Infinite Passion which will feature famous women of the Italian chocolate industry like Mariella Maione, chief executive of the Peyrano Company and Mary Zulli, the President of the Coperative Social Cocoa Break. So if you adore chocolate and consider yourself a chocoholic why not head to Turin for this year’s Cioccolatò?

Photo of chocolate heart by Rev Dan Catt

Some of Gaudi’s most famous creations are located in the heart of Barcelona like the Park Güell and the Sagrada Família church and these attractions draw hordes of visitors to Barcelona every year. However apart from these architectural marvels which have recently been featured in the latest Woody Allen movie ‘Vicky Christina Barcelona‘, Barcelona is also well known for its fantastic Catalan cuisine and its vibrant nightlife.

• However before venturing out to party on a visit to Barcelona you must be aware that Spanish people dine late and thus begin their nocturnal activities very late.

• The peak time at a nightclub on the weekends is usually 3am with the ‘partying‘ going on until 7am.

• Most clubs do charge an entrance but most offer free entrance before midnight. In order to avoid paying entrance at the clubs do keep your eyes open for promotional flyers which are periodically issued by popular clubs. These flyers are usually distributed in the key tourist areas and they often entitle you to free entrance or discounted drinks at the clubs

So which are the most popular nightclubs in Barcelona?

• Elephant

One of Barcelona’s chicest nightclubs is the Elephant which is located in the Les Corts neighborhood. Elephant is ‘the place to see and be seen in Barcelona’. The club is housed in a two–storey baroque villa which has different ’salas’. The lush verdant garden is adorned with colonial style décor and is a mellow chill out zone which has its own outdoor bar. The garden is decorated with large bronze elephants and lush bamboo groves and is the perfect spot to people watch as Elephant is frequented by many ‘beautiful’ people who come to Elephant for its ’scene’. There is also an exclusive VIP area which is decorated with plush sofas and many mirrors and mood lighting and a ‘blue’ sala which has a painted blue wall that is decorated with the popular Arabic symbol of the ‘Hand of Fatima‘.

Elephant is open from Wednesdays to Sundays and is located at 1, Paseo de los Tilos, Tel: +34 93 334 0258.

• Razzmataz

Despite its cheesy name this is one of the most popular clubs in Barcelona as it offers its patrons five different styles of music in its five different sections – The Razz Bar, The Loft, The Lolita, The Rex Room and The Pop Bar. All these sections actually function as independent clubs and your entrance fee allows you to roam freely between the rooms in order to experience the different thumping sounds according to your preference.

Sala Razzmataz is the choice performance venue for the various overseas artists who visit Barcelona. The club charges an entrance fee of 12 euros and is located at 122, Carrer dels Almogàvers. Tel: + 34 932 720 910

• Mirabe

This is another splendid two storey club which has an outdoor garden terrace and affords spectacular views from its location atop Mt.Tibidabo. This classy club is open every day from 7pm onwards. However it maybe difficult to get a taxi back to your hotel in the wee hours of the morning after a night of partying at Mirabe.  Mirabe is located at the end of Avenida Tibidabo. Tel: +34 934 340 035

• Sutton

This New York style ‘dancetaria’ has been reigning on Barcelona’s nightclub scene for over six years and it is still going strong in spite of newer clubs having opened their doors. The Sutton Club has designated VIP areas for its premium guests and the club has been visited by international ‘glitterati’ in the form of Hollywood actor Nicholas Cage and Brazilian soccer stars like Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. The Sutton club is located at posh Calle Tusset in the Gothic quarter and is open from Thursday to Saturday from midnight until 5am. Tel: +34 93 414 4217

• Pacha

Can’t make it to the Balearic island of Ibiza? Never fear as the most famous nightclub in the world has an equally raucous outpost in Barcelona. Located near the Zona Universitaria, this nightspot is frequented by hordes of college students who are perennially looking for a spot to let their hair down.

Pacha is open daily and is located at 17, Avenida Doctor Marañón. Tel: +34 93 334 3233

Photo of Pacha, Barcelona originally posted by Ardià Garcia

These fiestas (festivals) which are held through out the year range from the internationally famous Running of the bulls of Pamplona to other festivals like the Fireworks of Las Fallas in Valencia, Festes de la Merce of Barcelona, the Semana Santa in Andalusia and the Feria de Abril in Seville. Several of these fiestas honor the patron saint of the village or the town and usually involve many street parties, fireworks, parades, communal dinners and dancing in the village or town squares.

One of the most prominent and most enjoyable summer festivals of Spain is the colorful festival of ‘La Tomatina‘ which is held in the tiny industrial town of Buñol, located close to the orange producing center of Spain, the city of Valencia. Buñol like Valencia is also well known for its fresh produce so it is fitting that it is the site for a fiesta that involves approximately ninety thousand tones of juicy, ripe and succulent tomatoes.

‘La Tomatina’ is traditionally held every year on the last Wednesday in August and it is the culminating event of the fiesta of Buñol which takes place for a week before the great tomato fight of La Tomatina. This fiesta is like all other Spanish fiestas creates and encourages much camaraderie amongst the residents of the town and the nearly 20,000 visitors who arrive here for the big food fight from all parts of the globe.

On the night before the great event the towns many small cafes and bars that line the Concurso des Paellas near the Plaza del Pubelo which is the epicenter of this gooey battle serve up many dishes that feature ripe juicy tomatoes including cauldrons of the Spanish national dish, the Paella which simmers on wood burning fires and is consumed with copious amounts of wine as if in preparation for the ‘battle’ the next day.

On the day of ‘La Tomatina’ the shop keepers around Plaza del Pubelo board up their establishments in order to safeguard them from squishy tomatoes which are pelted on all and sundry. All the revelers for ‘La Tomatina’ who are usually clad in old t-shirts converge on the Plaza to wait for the trucks that arrive filled with tomatoes from the surrounding regions. These trucks usually roll in around mid day and as soon as the traditional ham which has been placed atop a greased poll is retrieved and the cannon fired, that the red hued battle starts. At first buckets of water are thrown at the crowds from the fight instigators from within the trucks after which it is tomatoes all the way and soon everybody on the streets of Buñol are covered in the red colored slush from the many squished tomatoes which are pelted at everyone especially camera wielding tourists, some of whom come to only record this famous tomato flavored event.

The fight usually lasts for a couple of hours and concludes when every last tomato has been spent. The members of the Town Council then fire another canon to signal the end of the tomato fight after which the messy revelers who are covered with tomato mush and seeds retire to the public showers erected for the event near the river of the town.

Soon after the town is cleaned up with both the revelers and the townspeople participating in the clean up operation which is almost as much fun as the tomato fight after which there is a celebration in honor of the town’s patron saint San Luis Bertràn, which includes much food and wine and more partying. Hotel rooms in Bunyol usually sell out weeks before La Tomatina but you can always choose to stay at a hotel in Valencia and take one of many trains which connect Valencia to Buñol in order to participate and enjoy the greatest tomato fight in the world ‘La Tomatina’.

Photos of La Tomatina tomato fight originally posted by A. www.viajar24h.com

Istanbul is that it is the only city in world that has a foot in two continents. Its old city is situated in Europe while it’s more modern sections are located within Asia. These two very distinct parts of Istanbul are separated by the strait of Bosphorus. Due to its strategic location, Istanbul also served as an important center of trade through the ages and the city continues to be an important center for finance and culture in Turkey until today.

Tourists who visit this magical city are fascinated by its unique culture which is a blend of the ancient and the modern and enjoy its considerable charms which consist of Byzantine ruins, lively bazaars, palaces, mosques and hammams (marble communal bath houses).

So what are the sights and sounds of Istanbul which are considered a must-see for any traveler who is visiting this mesmerizing city for the first time?

• An Ottoman attraction -the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque whose official name is the Sultan Ahmet Cammi is located in the main historical district of the city, an area called Sultanamet. This multi domed mosque is the prime exponent of Istanbul’s Islamic past. Built during the reign of the Ottoman Empire, the Blue mosque welcomes hundreds of worshippers every day into its elaborately decorated interiors. The mosque is called the ‘Blue mosque’ because it is decorated with hundreds of blue and white tiles which are arranged in intricate and exquisite floral patterns. While visiting the many mosques of Istanbul it is advisable to cover your head with a scarf or a cap.

• An attraction from Byzantium times – Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia which is called ‘Aya Sofya’ in Turkish is one of Istanbul’s most popular attractions. This ochre colored domed monument served as a church during the Christian Byzantine empire and then as a mosque during the Islamic Ottoman empire and is perhaps the best symbol of this exciting city which was the center of three great empires. The interiors of the Hagia Sophia are adorned with elaborate Islamic calligraphic roundels as well as Christian mosaics which represent the religious contrast of this monument most effectively.

• Topikapi Palace Museum

This museum which is located on one of the hills that surround Istanbul once served as a residential palace of one of the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire. The huge palace with its interconnecting courtyards, fountains, terraces, exquisitely designed rooms and elaborate gateways gives you an insight into the magnificently opulent lives of the fabulously wealthy Sultans of the Ottoman Empire.

• Vibrant Bazaars of Istanbul

The Grand Bazaar of Istanbul is one of the oldest and biggest covered bazaars in the world which is a veritable Aladdin’s cave of treasures. The Bazaar is a noisy and confusing maze of narrow streets which are full of stalls that sell carpets, bed spreads, textiles, leather goods, clothing, hookahs, souvenirs, hand crafted ceramics etc. Bargaining for your purchases is an accepted norm in the Bazaar where vendors enjoy haggling and chatting with you as they convince you to make a purchase. Another market worth visiting is the Egyptian market of Istanbul which is the spice market of Istanbul and the place to buy tea, spices, dried fruits, nuts and seeds and lokum ( the rich nut filled sweet Turkish delight)

• A boat ride on the Bosphorus

Another must-do on any trip to Istanbul is to take a boat ride on the River Bosphorus. During the boat ride you get to cruise past the many interesting palaces, forts, traditional wooden Ottoman homes as well as the huge suspension bridges, the Bosphorus Bridge and the Faith Bridge which are the vital links between the two continents that are straddled by this awe-inspiring city.

Photo of Istanbul originally posted by Atilla1000

Lisbon which is also known as ‘Lisboa’ in Portuguese is the charming and quaint capital of Portugal which is currently enjoying a great cultural renaissance quite like that of its golden age in the 15th and 16th centuries when it produced great mariners like Ferdinand Magellan who circumvented the globe and Vasco de Gama who was the first European to sail to India.

• Old quarter- Alfama

The city’s old world charm is best witnessed best in an area of town called Alfama which is located on the edge of the majestic castle of the Moors, the Sao Jorge Castle. The area is filled with relics from the times of the Moors like cobbled streets and old stone houses and churches which are adorned with mosaics made of tiles. Also located here is the oldest structure in Lisbon, the Sé Cathedral which dates back to the time of the crusades. Alfama also has many small taverns and restaurants located within its environs where you will have the chance to listen to a typical Portuguese Fado, a hauntingly beautiful ballad of love and sorrow which is usually performed by a solo performer.

• World Heritage Sights

Lisbon is world renowned for its famous marine-centric monuments many of which have been declared world heritage sites. Several of these monuments are located in historic area of Belém, a suburb of Lisbon which is accessible via a ten minute train ride from center of the city.

The Jeronimos Monastery is one such monument which was declared a UNESCO world heritage sight in 1983 and is one sight which should be considered a must-do on any visit to Lisbon. This intricately carved church was built to commemorate Vasco Da Gamma’s successful voyage across the oceans to India. The church today is also the final resting place of this great explorer whose tomb is located in the monastery.

Another world heritage sight located in Belém, the site from which many a sea voyage commenced is the Torre de Belém (tower of Belém), which was built as fortified lighthouse on the Targus river. This elaborately carved tower is one of the most prominent monuments of Portugal and is considered to be an ode to Portugal’s ‘Age of Discovery.’ Apart from these two prominent world heritage sights there are many other sights in Belém that are worth exploring like the Belém National Palace which is the home of the Portuguese President, the Belém cultural center, the Coaches museum and the Ajuda Palace.

• Sintra’s fairytale castles

Sintra which is located on the outskirts of Lisbon and can be reached via a half hour drive from Lisbon and this town is another UNESCO declared world heritage sight which is a popular spot for a day excursion from Lisbon. Sintra is known for its magical palaces and castles which are built in a mish mash of styles so much so that they look like castles from toy land. Plalácio de Pena, Quinta de Regaleira Palace and the Seteais Palace (now a luxury hotel) are some of the many fascinating buildings located here that are adorned with domes, mazes, turrets, spiral staircases and stone carvings of monsters .

Next time, if you want to have a holiday which is peppered with a healthy dose of history and culture why not give the enchanting Portuguese capital a try?

Photo of Sintra, Portugal originally posted by Chris Yunker

In recent times however the island with is blessed with more than three hundred days of sunshine and has a topography which consists of mountains and more than forty gorgeous white sand beaches, has become a favored destination of many European tourists who find Mallorca extremely accessible thanks to the many low cost and charter airlines that fly there. While the British contingent usually sets up camp at a resort town known as Magaluf located in the south west corner of the stunning Bahai de Palma (The bay of Palma) the Germans congregate at a beach town known as El Arenal located on the east coast of the bay.

However apart from these gorgeous beaches which are popular for their many bars and restaurants and there are many picturesque and quaint towns and villages which should be explored to get a feel of true Mallorquin life on any visit to Palma de Mallorca.

• Sòller and the Port de Sòller

The scenic town of Sòller is located on the northwestern part of the island of Mallorca and the journey to Sòller can make for a charming day trip from the city of Palma. Sòller can be reached by car in a mere half hour from the center of the city but an ideal way to visit this rustic town which is covered with orange and almond groves and is located between the mountains of the Serra de Tramuntana range and the sea is to ride in the charming wooden hundred year old train that travels to Sòller from the Plaza de España, the transport hub of the city.

The train travels through the city of Palma before it heads into the Mallorquin countryside and takes the extremely scenic route to Sòller. The views from the train are absolutely breathtaking as the train chugs along and climbs into the mountains until it reaches the town of Sòller. Sòller with its cobble stone squares and many ice cream parlors and tapas restaurants is an ideal spot to have a Spanish lunch and if sightseeing is your thing, then the town offers the Church of St Bartomeu and two museums, the Natural Science Museum and The Museu Municipal which will fulfill your need to see the sights . In the summer months the town of Sòller also hosts an international art festival which attracts artists from all over the world.

From Sòller a trolley car transports you to the beautiful crescent shaped natural harbor which is called the Peurto de Sòller. This tiny beach town also has many restaurants and shops and the best way to explore it is to walk its streets on foot.

• Valldemossa and the village of Deià

Valldemossa is another extremely picturesque village which is also located in the green mountains of Palma de Mallorca’s Serra de Tramuntana range. The town was the locale for the affair of French novelist George Sands and composer Federic Chopin in 1838. The couple occupied a cell in the Cartoixa Reial Monastry located here and were shunned by the local populace during the winter that they spent in Valldemossa. This scenic village dates back to the times of the Moors and is made up of narrow winding stone streets on which you can see typical Mallorquin stone homes which sport painted terracotta tiled roofs. Further on from the village of Valldemossa, towards the coast, is the charming village of Deià. The village and surrounding landscape are quite stunning and afford glorious vistas, where the sea and sky seem to become one.

Picture of Spanish village, Mallorca originally posted by David de Mallorca

Amongst the many delights that the Danes have given the world are the sweet flaky pastry called the ‘Danish’ which is a popular breakfast favorite, wonderful magical fairy tales like the Little Match Girl and the Ugly Duckling, written by Danish author and Copenhagen native, Hans Christian Anderson in the 19th Century and Lego, the popular industrial toy which is a perennial favorite with children all over the world.

Apart from the above mentioned products the Danes, are also known the world over for their inimitable sense of style and design. The capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen is a charming and vibrant city which is full of indigenous stylish lifestyle and clothing stores which are ideal showcases for the cutting edge Danish design sensibilities and are always worth a visit for design aficionados.

Most of these stores and art galleries are located on Copenhagen’s chic Bredgade Street, a street which is also home to Denmark’s leading auction house called Bruun Rasmussen. This auction house, which was established in 1948, sells art, furniture, jewelry etc through its various live and online auctions and it’s filled to the brim show rooms are always worth a visit.

Jorgen L Dalgaard

This small store is the veritable treasure trove of Bedgrade Street which presents a smorgasbord Scandinavian style including much Danish modern furniture and art works from Sweden and Finland. It specializes in Danish porcelain, stoneware and glass.

Georg Jensen

The world famous Danish silver company which was founded in the late 19th century and has outlets all over the globe is also located here on Bredgade Street. This fine store sells a wide variety of household and personal silver products which are the embodiment of Danish style and design.

The Royal Copenhagen

This fine porcelain company has been associated with Danish Design ever since it was founded in 1775. The flagship store of the company is located in the heart of Copenhagen in Amagertorv. The store has displays of its various world renowned lines like the Blue Fluted with its blue and white patterned dinner service which is always in demand. The store also displays its new and contemporary lines like the Blue Fluted Mega which is the result of collaboration with a young ceramist called Karen Kjældgärd- Larsen and which was created to appeal to a new generation of customers. At the four storied store you can actually watch the artisans work on their delicate designs and also shop for bargains from past seasons from the factory outlet in the basement.

The Danish Design Center

This exciting display of Danish style is housed in a high tech building on Hans Christian Andersens Boulevard opposite Copenhagen’s other famous landmark, the Tivoli Gardens. The building itself has been designed by a world famous Danish architect called Professor Henning Larsen and has several changing exhibitions which display the works of eminent Danish designers like Arne Johnson, Piet Hein, Jørn Utzon and iconic Danish products from Danish companies like the stylish Hi-fi company Bang and Olufsen, Bodum and Lego. The building apart from its offices and exhibition halls also has a café called Café Dansk which retails Danish cuisine and has a store called the Danish Design Center store where you can buy books, home products and a line dedicated to traveling light called Travel Light, which consists of stylish multi use products that enable you to travel light with much oomph and style.

Copenhagen design hotel on venere.com: The Square Hotel Copenhagen

This Copenhagen hotel is centrally located on Radhuspladsen Town House square, within easy walking distance of Stroget, Tivoli Garden amusement park and Copenhagen Central Station. The Square is an exclusive design hotel that boasts Scandinavian style interiors including the famous ‘Egg’ circular sofa by Arne Jacobsen. The Square Hotel Copenhagen also offers a lounge bar and a breakfast restaurant enjoying breathtaking views over Copenhagen city’s rooftops.

Photo of Danish Design Center, Copenhagen by jetheriot

You can’t help but miss the days of carefree travel when you could shop with abandon on your holidays and come back laden with gifts for friends and family, as at that time most airlines allowed a passenger to carry unrestricted checked baggage especially for travel to and fro from the USA where the 2 piece concept was the general rule. I don’t think we are ever going to go back to those times and since I am a frequent traveler, I pay great attention to the new travel essential and this helps me to be more organized so I can deal effectively with the constantly changing air travel situations.

• Digital Luggage Scale

This little device is a must-have for anyone who just can’t obey the rules of packing lightly but needs to conform to the new draconian rules that govern the weight of free checked baggage that are imposed by all airlines nowadays. The digital luggage scale is a light, portable device and extremely useful device which effortlessly helps you weigh your bags. It is available in stores and online at a number of websites.

• TSA locks

With the plummeting dollar travel to the USA has become very attractive option but if you are planning to travel to the USA anytime soon and you plan to lock your luggage to keep it secure, you must keep in mind that you can only use the Travel Sentry locks to lock luggage for travel to and with the USA. These locks are approved by the Transportation Security Administration in the USA and Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs Service in the UK. TSA locks are available from all major luggage manufactures world wide.

• 100ml/3 oz bottles for carry on liquids and gels

New rules governing carry on luggage stipulate that liquids and gels can be carried in hand luggage only within one plastic zip lock bag in bottles that do not exceed 100ml/ 3 oz. If you cannot find your favorite products in miniature sizes which meet these norms you can always buy 100ml plastic bottles and fill them with your regular products so that you are not deprived of your essentials while you are in the air.

• World Travel Plugs

I pods, digital cameras, cell phones and laptops, we just can’t imagine our travels without all these modern day gizmos but for all these to work and charge up in the various countries that we visit we need to have the right plugs. Unfortunately the electrical sockets in various countries differ greatly and the best way to negotiate around this problem is to invest in a set of world travel plugs which comply with all these various differences. Several manufactures like Targus and Muji have complete sets of inexpensive plugs whose permutations and combinations are ideal for almost every country in the world.

• An extra set on clothes in your hand luggage.

Airlines like British Airways due to increased security checks have become notorious for losing and delaying luggage. The worst way to start off an eagerly anticipated holiday is to arrive at your destination and find that your luggage has not arrived with you. In order to ensure that you at least have a fresh pair of clothes to change into it is always prudent to pack a complete change of clothes in your hand luggage so that you don’t have to immediately rush out and buy essentials with the compensation money that the airline may offer you.

Complying with these new travel essentials may actually help make your journey this summer relatively stress free.

Happy Travels!

Picture of airport sign originally posted by Kagey b.

Like New York City, Mumbai is a city that never sleeps and it boasts of a vibrant, pulsating nightlife culture which must be explored on any trip to Mumbai.

1. Blue Frog Lounge- Global beats

Blue Frog is Mumbai’s newest nightspot which is opened its doors in late 2007 in the old textile mill dominated area called Lower Parel. The club is a revolutionary concept which showcases Mumbai as a truly global city. The club which sports an extremely futuristic décor emphasizes greatly on Live music which it offers to its patrons six days a week. Musicians from India and all over the world perform at the Blue Frog lounge. Whatever be your preference head to the Blue Frog lounge for your fix of jazz, funk, soul, afro- Latin, world, hip hop , drum n’ bass ,electronica etc.

2. The Dome Bar –relaxed, chilled ambience

The Dome Bar is the stylish open air roof top bar of the Intercontinental Hotel located at the world renowned promenade of Mumbai called the Marine Drive or the Queen’s Necklace. Here you can lounge on one of the extremely comfy chaise lounges and sip your drink and nibble on some eats while you gaze out at the Arabian Sea and the twinkling lights of the bright lights, big city that is Mumbai.

3. Shiro-retro nights are all the rage

Shiro is yet another hip party spot of Mumbai. Located in the premises of an old textile mill in the Worli area of Mumbai, this night spot sports extremely high ceilings and a décor which is composed of traditional oriental elements which have typical Balinese and Japanese accents like low seating adorned with sumptuous silk furnishings, flowing water bodies, and mellow lighting. This nightclub rocks on Friday nights when the resident DJ spins retro tunes from the 70’s and 80’s which are immensely popular with the house.

4. Indigo-fine dining with a contemporary feel

This resto-bar located in a turn of the century bungalow in the Colaba area of Mumbai has been going strong for over ten years since it first opened its doors in 1997. It has played host to the world’s jet set and various other luminaries including former first daughter, Chelsea Clinton and has often featured in Condé Nast’s world’s top restaurants list. The often changing and innovative menu features a wide range of excellent fusion foods and its long, well stocked, lively bar make it the perfect place to spend a sultry Mumbai evening.

5. China House- the perfect people watching party spot

This multi level resto-bar is located in the luxurious environs of the Grand Hyatt hotel which is situated in the vicinity of Mumbai’s Sahar International airport. This resto-bar has tasteful décor which evokes the feeling of China and it serves modern Chinese cuisine in its four private dining rooms which are named Ginger, Chilli, Cinnamon and Nutmeg and the attached garden. The restaurant also houses an energetic often packed lounge where a DJ spins popular tunes. The lounge is a favorite with the leading lights of the Indian film indu.

Picture of Mumbai by night originally posted by Jasvipul

Singapore is also a great shopping destination and most locals have a penchant for trawling its many malls and shopping centers. Moreover Singapore attracts hordes of overseas visitors to its shores each year for the annual Shopping festival called the Great Singapore Sale which is usually held between the months of May and July each year.

Apart from shopping another favored past time of Singaporeans is ‘eating’ and this small nation has a well-known street food culture where many local delights are served in establishments called ‘Hawker Centers‘ and Food Courts. These Hawker Centers are clean and hygienic like the rest of Singapore and it’s quite safe to indulge in the many local foods that are served here without fear of being plagued by the dreaded stomach bug.

Almost every shopping complex on Singapore’s main shopping and entertainment drag, Orchard Road has a food court or hawker center located within its environs so it is quite easy to find these delicious indigenous foods and enjoy a new gastronomical experience. Here are some of the famous Singaporean local food that are a must-try for your next trip to Singapore

• Hainanese Chicken Rice

This simple dish is often called the ‘National dish’ of Singapore and consists of strips of chicken which are boiled in a chicken bone stock and served with a lightly flavored rice which is also prepared in chicken stock. The dish is served with accompaniments which include a bowl of clear soup, some pickled cucumbers and a hot chili dipping sauce. The Chatterbox restaurant located in the Meritus Mandarin Hotel on Orchard Road is world renowned for its chicken rice.

• Popiahs

Popiahs are fresh spring rolls which are not fried but served as they are. The skin of the popiah consists of a wafer thin crepe which is made of wheat flour. These spring rolls are usually are filled with hoisin sauce, finely chopped and stir fried jicama, beans, carrots, tofu and bean sprouts. The fillings of the popiahs may differ with each hawker center. The popiah is an indigenous dish of Singapore which has its origins in the original ‘Peranakan’ culture of the island.

• Laksa

Laksa is yet another Perankan dish which has evolved from a simple noodle soup over the years. There are several varieties of Laksa found in Singapore but the two main varieties are Curry Laksa and Assam Laksa. The Curry Laksa consists of thick noodles served in a coconut curry soup while the Assam Laksa refers to noodles served in sour fish soup. Apart from noodles, the Laksa also has fried tofu, fish sticks, shrimp and vegetables in it. A popular variety of Laksa served in Singapore is called Katong Laksa . This dish is named after a residential area in Singapore called Katong, where the vendors of Laksa cut up the thick noodles into bits in order to make the Katong Laksa easier to eat

• Singapore Chili Crab

Yet another dish which competes for the hotly contested title of the national dish of Singapore is the Chili Crab. The Singapore Chili Crab consists of hard shelled crabs which are cooked in tomato chili gravy. The dish is served with steamed Chinese buns which are used to mop the gravy as you work your way through the crab. The best chili crabs are served in the sea food restaurants located on the East Coast of Singapore.

• Ais Kacang

Ais Kacang or ABC as it is called, the latter being an acronym for the Malay name for this desert is a refreshing way to end a delicious spicy meal in Singapore. This desert comprises of a mountain of shaved ice which is garnished with many brightly colored sweet syrups and at the base of this heap of ice lies bed of unusual ingredients which include red beans, sweet corn, palm seeds and jelly cubes. The Ais Kacang is an extraordinary desert which is an acquired taste. This icy treat is not only great for wrapping up a meal but presents a perfect way to tackle Singapore’s hot humid weather as well!

Picture of Singapore popiahs originally posted by avlxyz

Great Britain has enjoyed close ties with the Indian subcontinent for many years and this has led to the British enthusiastically adopting and adapting the usually spicy and flavorful Indian cuisine to suit their own palate. For instance the most popular Indian dish in the UK is ‘Chicken tikka masala’. This is a British adaptation of Indian chicken curry found only in the UK and nowhere else on the subcontinent. Moreover connoisseurs of Indian cuisine often remark the Indian restaurants in London serve excellent authentic Indian cuisine which is often better than the food served at the restaurants in India. To judge whether this is true or not you would have to eat at London’s finest Indian restaurants in order to make a decision.

• Veeraswamys

One of the oldest Indian restaurants in London is Veeraswamys. The restaurant which is located in the elegant neighborhood of Mayfair, established by the great grandson of an English General, along with an Indian princess. Today this eighty year old restaurant managed and owned by sisters Camelia and Namita Punjabi who also own other renowned London eateries such as Amaya and Chutney Mary. These sisters have recently refurbished the restaurant and restored it to its former glory. The décor of the restaurant evokes the ambience of a Maharaja’s palace from the 1920’s. The restaurant possesses a magnificent ten foot high silver painted ceiling and its walls are adorned with colorful opulent turbans which once belonged to the Maharajas who patronized the restaurant during its early days. Veeraswamy’s menu reflects the various different cooking styles of the subcontinent, the restaurant is a must do for any Indian food buff on a visit to London.

• Amaya Bar & Grill

If you prefer to try Indian food with a more contemporary style and taste you should head to Veeraswamy’s sister restaurant the Amaya Bar and Grill. This restaurant serves top notch contemporary Indian food with a distinct western twist. The award winning Indian restaurant is one of the few Indian restaurants that have received a star in the Michelin Red Guide. Amaya has a sleek, modern look and a menu which features Indian grills or kebabs which are cooked on the spot in its large show kitchen. Amaya is located on Motcomb Street in the area of Knightsbridge.

• Zaika

The first Indian Restaurant in London to have received a Michelin star is located in the coveted district of South Kensington and is called Zaika. Zaika is located in a building which was previously a bank and the original architecture of the bank consisting of arches and high ceilings has been preserved which helps to enhance the colonial era feel of the restaurant. Its large menu features many permutations and combinations to satisfy even the most discerning palate.

• The Cinnamon Club

The Cinnamon Club is an inimitable Indian restaurant that is located in a building that once housed a Victorian Library in the area of London known as Westminster. This restaurant which serves modern Indian cuisine is a favorite of politicians and movers and shakers of the business world. It even has its own exclusive single malt whisky which is bottled for the restaurant and is available for sale.

The restaurant has a constantly evolving menu which keeps it fresh and exciting.

Photo of ‘fine Indian cuisine‘ neon originally posted by dmax3270