If you enjoy theater, performance art, dance or simply entertainment, and if you can plan well in advance for accommodations then definitely get to Avignon for the festivals held in July. The action takes place all over town: inside, outside, on the ground and, yes, in the air (fire-spinners anyone?).

2. Pont St. Bénezet

“Sur le pont d’Avignon, on y danse, on y danse, sur le pont d’Avignon, on y danse tous en rond.” Sound familiar? This nursery rhyme dates back to the 15th century and “le pont” or “bridge” it’s referring to is St. Bénezet Bridge.

Built over the Rhône River… well sort of. Originally, the bridge was built with 22 arches at 3,000 feet long. Then the mighty Rhône brought it down, the bridge was re-built, then half of it fell down, and that’s what you see today. So it’s built half-way over the Rhône.

When you buy a ticket (€4) grab the audio guide. It’s free and worth it.

3. Walking the streets

Stroll the back-roads and find your favorite square. Avignon is easy to navigate. There are old city walls surrounding it so you can’t get lost. Stop by the Tourist Information Office, located off the main street from the train station, 41 Jean Jaurès, grab a walking tour map and explore.

4. Palais des Papes

After the French Pope, Clement V, was elected in 1309 the church moved to Avignon and the Vatican bought the city. The tour, €9.50, comes with an audio guide where you can learn more about the Palace.

You can walk and listen at your own pace through the palace. The vast empty rooms contrast the frescos and color of the Popes’ quarters.

5. Parc des Rochers des Domes

Known to be the first site of Avignon, this park has fantastic views, a tiny café and public bathrooms. Always a plus!

Photo of “Festival Off” posters, Avignon, France by M@nuDia

1. Visit the Winter Wonderland in London’s Hyde Park

The annual Winter Wonderland brings festive spirit to London’s Hyde Park from 21st November 2009 to 3rd January 2010. The 2009 Winter Wonderland features an ice skating rink, Santa’s Grotto, a Snow Ball Bungee Dome, an Observation Wheel with views over London, and a German Christmas Market with dozens of stalls that sell arts, crafts and gifts. There are also bars and restaurants, mulled wine and other Christmas treats, and entertainment by bands and choirs. Entrance to the Winter Wonderland is free, but some attractions require pre-booking via the Winter Wonderland website  hydeparkwinterwonderland.com.

2. Catch A Christmas Carol Concert In London

Get into Christmas mood in one of London’s many Christmas Carol concerts. The 18th-century St Martin-in-the-Fields church has a special Christmas Program in December that includes family carols and carols by candlelight, and visitors can also enjoy mulled wine in the church’s café. The Royal Albert Hall features several Christmas concerts including a Christmas Carol Singalong in the run-up to Christmas, and the St Paul’s Cathedral offers classical concerts and a special Christmas Eve Carol Service.

3. Take A Christmas Cruise Along River Thames

Those who are in London for Christmas can take a Christmas Day Lunch Cruise along the River Thames. The City Cruises company offers a lunch cruise on Christmas Day, giving visitors the opportunity to sample a traditional English Christmas lunch while cruising along the Thames and taking in many famous London landmarks.

Photo of snow in London, UK,  by E01

Bram Stoker who wrote Dracula hailed from here and the Irish people have been celebrating All Hallows’ Eve in various forms since the days of the Celts and it is thought that the Jack o’ Lantern originates from Ireland. Enough about the history! –you might be saying. What can you actually do here during the Halloween season?

Here are a few of the best activities for the year 2009:

• Halloween Festival and Parade

The Halloween Festival and Parade is a carnival-style parade arranged by the Dublin City Council which starts at 7:00pm and consists of people dressing up with a spectacular conclusion of lights and sounds. Also (very) suitable for children – but they’ll have to be on their feet for quite some time so rest up well beforehand.

• Lillie’s Bordello Halloween Night

Lillie’s Bordello is one of Dublin’s most well-known and well-to-do nightclub (scrap that, it is Dublin’s most well-known and well-to-do nightclub), and their annual themed Halloween is well worth going to, with the guests expected to don Halloween costumes. With Bordello’s exquisite decor and stellar reputation, it should be a night to remember. Particularly attractive even to those who hate Halloween is the vast drink menu, which contains a wide range of Cocktails, Wines, and Beers.

• Hidden Dublin Halloween Walks

You’ll be transported from the City Centre of Dublin in a bus to the site of the Hellfire Club, a largely gutted old ruin where a clique of 18th Century big-wigs decided to form a society where all sorts of pagan, blasphemous rituals were said to have took place. Many people have reported a sense of unease and strange things are said to have been seen there – including, by old accounts, an actual visitation of the devil himself. The package is complete with a guide who’ll provide information and historical snippets about the history behind the Club. It’s strictly for adults only, of course.

• The Pavilion Theatre -The Old Dark House

Showing from the 29th and 30th of October, at the Pavilion Theatre near the Harbour, is a dark comedy titled “The Old Dark House” where five travellers seek refuge in a lonely part of Wales and get taken in by a rather bizarre family. The initial running of this was so successful that it was completely sold-out. It’ll likely equate to a fun evening out. Discretion is advised though as it’s not particularly suitable for the nippers.

Top 5 Dublin Hotels to stay during the Halloween Season

• Hotel Merrion Hall – 4-star hotel in the Embassy District – €109
• Shelton Park Hotel – 3-star hotel 15 min away from the city center – €55
• Hotel Lansdowne – 3-star hotel in the heart of Georgian Dublin – €69
• The Castle Hotel – 3-star hotel in Dublin city center – €99
• Schoolhouse Hotel – 4-star hotel housed in a former parochial school – €134

Photo of Halloween celebrations in Smithfield Square, Dublin, Ireland, by djcult

1. Top 10 Holiday Destinations for Beer Lovers: 10 travel ideas for beer lovers, from the Munich Oktoberfest to Prague’s Pilsner Fest to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver, Colorado.
2. Top 5 Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam: A blog post for the travelers planning a trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, a wonderful city offering a wealth of tourist sights and attractions.
3. How to get ready for the Winter Olympics: A series of tips for the fans of ski and snow sports who will be attending the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, Canada.
4. Fun Facts about the Loire Castles: 5 curious facts and anecdotes about the Loire Valley, France, and its splendid chateaus and gardens.
5. Top 5 Dubai Night Clubs: A review of the most popular night spots in Dubai, UAE, including Copacabana, Boudoir, Zinc, Kasbar and Vu’s Bar.

Photo of the Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany, by Meironke

1. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is the unsung hero of the beer world, being so often overlooked in favour of neighbouring Germany and yet recently fighting off competition from the multinational corporation Budweiser to retain the rights to the original Budwar brand. Prague has the most variety and as an added bonus is also one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Real devotees will want to head to Plzen, however, as this is the spiritual home of Czech beer. Each October the town hosts the Pilsner Fest which is the largest celebration of beer in the Czech Republic and a real highlight for beer pilgrims.

2. Great British Beer Festival

Beer lovers should appreciate Britain generally because of the wealth and diversity of beers available around the country. However, if you are short of time to tour the country and wade through the mass produced rubbish to find the real classics then the Great British Beer Festival is a great way to bring the mountain to Mohammed. Held each August, the festival showcases a huge variety of domestic and international beers in a friendly and accessible environment not far from central London.

3. Munich Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest has a reputation which has spread around the globe and spawned many similar or imitating beer festivals in far flung corners of the globe. The original is still the best, however, with nothing yet matching the scale and ambition of pure beer devotion displayed in Munich each year. Most people don’t realise that the food is almost as important for the festival as the beer and it is a great chance to try some German delicacies alongside the huge amounts of beer consumed by all involved. When you leave you may appreciate why the shape of Bavarian men is traditionally quite rotund.

4. The Great American Beer festival (Denver)

While American beer does not have a great reputation amongst connoisseurs, the Great American Beer Festival in Denver is none the less a great way to sample the wide range and especially to focus on the smaller scale breweries which make up for in quality what they lack in name recognition.

5. The Tasmanian Beerfest

One of the newest Antipodean beer festivals, the Tasmanian Beerfest is quickly establishing itself a reputation as one of the best. The festival is quite refined by beer festival standards, perhaps needing to provide a unique selling point to draw visitors to its remote but beautiful island off the coast of a remote country.

6. New York

New York is the great melting pot of the world, and while it is not known particularly for its beer, the many cultures that have migrated through or made their home in the city that never sleeps have left their mark. The variety of beers available is truly impressive allowing sampling variety, but visitors should be aware that many brands will not be served at their best so far from home.

7. Biketoberfest

What do you get if you put a motorcycle rally and a beer festival together in Florida? Biketoberfest. Located on Daytona beach this festival will sound like a nightmare to some and a dream to others, I shall let you make your own mind up.

8. Bruges

Bruges is not known as a party town, and it doesn’t want to be either. But the combination of the best Belgian beer and preserved medieval charm is attractive in a quiet way.

9. Blumenau (Brazil)

One of the best franchise variants of Oktoberfest is the one held in Blumenau in Brazil. As is fairly obvious from the name, the city has had a decent amount of migration from Germany and so the festival is more a chance for the locals to celebrate their history and culture rather than bar and restaurant owners cashing in while their patrons get mindlessly drunk.

10. Hong Kong

Perhaps the most incongruous variant of Oktoberfest is the one that has been held in Hong Kong each year since the early 90’s. Originally based in the Marco Polo Hotel and still based there, the festival has spread to other venues and is now a great way to infuse Bavarian tradition with Asian modernity.

Photo of glass of beer in Bruges, Belgium, by Erik de Queker

But the stunning and warm city of Zaragoza, found right in between the square that is the cities above, might just be the hidden gem of Spain.

Coming with a multi-cultural background that has seen it ruled by Romans, Arabs, the Aragonese and then Christians, it’s not surprise to find out that the city is rich with a great variety of traditions, buildings and people. Modern history was deeply affected by the Spanish Civil War. Zaragoza was one of the most bombed areas and was the home of the famous anarchist militia group the Durruti Column. Nowadays the city has been largely trouble-free, apart from the ongoing and difficult threat from radical groups such as ETA. There a so many things for a visitor to do in Zaragoza you’ll never be bored. Here are just a few selections.

1. Take Part to Las Fiestas del Pilar

Dig out your red checked scarves for a 7-day festival that celebrates the belief that the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint James by the Nuestra Señora del Pilar. A whopping 2 million people will be in and around the city during the festival. There are always plenty of bars and restaurants looking lively and entertaining all through the night as well as nightclubs and stages with live music and plenty of dancing. Daily bullfights in the morning always attract the crowds. Largely due to it being open to the public, or rather those brave enough to end up in hospital.

2. Visit the Catedral del Salvador

The Cathedral of the Saviour is found on the Plaza de la Seo, which very appropriately means “see”. There’s certainly something to see when you get there. When the Christians came to town around the 12th Century, they removed the Mosque, which was previously on the site, and built the church you see today. Before the Mosque it was also a Roman temple, so the site has had religious importance for hundreds of years. What might strike you when you enter is the unusual amount of natural light. It’s a bright and warm building with a truly spectacular 15th Century Gothic altarpiece. A beautiful Mudejar wall on the outside provides a window in the past.

3. Visit Aljafería Palace

If the Muslim world was short-changed in history at the Cathedral then they more than make up for it at this place. It’s a sort of cross between a castle and palace but it one of the most important Moorish buildings in the whole of Spain. Even though it is open to tourists and pilgrims, the building is also the site of the Aragonese parliament. One of the highlights include the Troubadour Tower, which was originally built for defence reasons and has many arrow-slits where attacks could be defending with ease.

Top 5 Zaragoza Hotels Recommended by Venere.com Users:

• Hotel Sercotel Oriente
• Eurostars Hotel Plaza Delicias
• Hotel Silken Reino de Aragon
• Hotel Zenit Don Yo
• Hotel Catalonia Zaragoza Plaza

Picture of Palacio de la Aljaferia, Zaragoza, Spain, by Wjotek Gurak

1. The Best Night Clubs in Ibiza

Want to know what the best night club in Ibiza, Balearic Islands, is? Spain’s most popular destination for party animals boasts the world’s best club (Space), the world’s biggest club (Privilege), and the very popular Pacha Ibiza disco.

2. Top 4 Night Clubs in Algarve, Portugal

Offering some of the best beaches and nightclubs in Portugal, Algarve is a popular summer holiday destination in the South of Europe. So if you’re planning a beach vacation on the Portuguese coast, check out this list of great Algarve nightclubs including trendy discos and the hotel casino of Praia de Rocha.

3. Top 5  European Music Festivals

Looking for the best music festivals in Europe? Take a look at our ‘Top 5 Summer Music Festivals’ including  Glastonbury and Roskilde rock festivals, Novi Sad Exit festival, Budapest Sziget Festival and the Spanish indie rock and electronica festival of Benicassim, Costa del Azahar.

4. Fun facts about the UK

Want to know some fun facts about London and the United Kingdom?  Read this series of interesting facts about the UK, the London tube, Big Ben, the British Museum, tea drinking traditions, Windsor, the eccentricities of the British royal family and royal ghosts.

5. Fun facts about Dubai

Planning a trip to Dubai and looking for fun things to do in the most populous city of the UAE? Check out this list of curious facts about Dubai, its luxurious hotels, immense shopping malls and towering skyscraper.

Picture of camel by  •●pfaff

Of the many things we know about Italy we also know that it is certainly not a wintry place. That goes for the warm people and friendly culture but also for the weather itself: the country isn’t used to and isn’t prepared for the cold (aside from the fact that it never is very cold at all.) So Italy thrives in summer, and Rome is full of events and festivals that take full advantage of the most pleasant and privileged season. Here are 5 summer festivals in Rome that shouldn’t be missed:

1. Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival

The Villa Celimontana Jazz Festival has been a Roman institution for more than a decade, located in the gardens and the shade of the 16th century villa designed in harmony with nature by a student of Michelangelo, Giacomo del Duca. Today artists of national and international fame take the stage, including Enrico Rava, Javier Girotto and Roberto Gatto, including the conservatories of Santa Cecilia and Luigi Cherubini. The festival runs until September 20th, and tickets cost approximately 10€. (Via della Navicella, Metro: Colosseo) http://www.villacelimontanajazz.com/ita/index.html

2. Roma Incontra Il Mondo Festival, Villa Ada

Villa Ada is one of the most beautiful and largest public parks in Rome, and since 1994 has housed a world music festival called Roma Incontra il Mondo, running from the 16th of June to the 8th of August. A truly varied range of artists play here, from pop to rock to classical to reggae to world music, effectively: this year a few notable names are Nouvelle Vague, Ludovico Einaudi, Avion Travel, and Patti Smith. Tickets vary between 8 and 13€. (Laghetto di Villa Ada, Metro: Campi Sportivi) http://www.villaada.org/

3. Isola del Cinema

One of my favorite events is the Isola del Cinema festival held on the Isola Tiberina right in the center of Rome, wedged in the river Tiber. Every year one has the pleasure of watching films in the open air on the island. The festival runs from the 18th of June to the 30th of September and screens both national and international cinema. The program includes a 21:30 and 23:30 screening for perfect “dinner and a movie” dates. The upcoming week provides a taste of the event: Milk, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, La Dolce Vita, Let the Right One In. Tickets are 5€ for the first screening ( if you are part of the Isola del Cinema Facebook group, working for ATAC or have a Metrebus card) and 3€ for the second screening. http://www.isoladelcinema.com/

4. Teatro dell’Opera di Roma at the Terme di Caracalla

Every year the Teatro dell’Opera moves its productions to the atmospheric Caracalla baths, and is certainly not to be missed even just in light of this. This month and in August the program includes A Midsummer Night’s Dream, with the corps de ballet and the orchestra of the Opera house, Tosca and Carmen. While the Teatro dell’Opera is not nearly at the same level as La Scala of Milan, for instance, the location makes the night. Tickets and seating arrangements can be found on the website: http://www.operaroma.it .

5. Lungo Er Tevere

For a more informal, relaxed and truly enjoyable evening with friends head down to the Lungotevere degli Anguillara and head down the stairs onto the river bank. Every year the city of Rome organizes this event on the shores of the Tiber from the Ponte Sisto to Ponte Mazzini, over 1 km of shops, stands, bars, restaurants, and clubs. For more information check out the website: http://www.lungoiltevereroma.it/cultura.html. These events are certainly not the only ones – be sure to check the official website of the Estate Romana, http://www.estateromana.comune.roma.it/.

Photo of Mike Stern band playing at Villa Celimontana, Rome, Italy by Padesig

• Hotels.com US recommends reading Elliott Blog to know how to find great summer travel deals.

• LDN shares a link to a Time Out article on lidos, ponds and outdoor swimming pools in London, UK.

• TallinnCity invites you to attend the ongoing  “To Breathe as One” song and dance festival in Tallinn, Estonia.

• Visit Holland likes the evening light display at Madurodam miniature city, The  Hague, Netherlands.

• James Dunford Wood shares great holiday ideas including a trip along Japan’s Golden Route from Tokyo to Kyoto.

Photo of Madudrodam miniature park in La Hague by Daveness 98

2009 is shaping up to be an epic year, with some amazing acts headlining at events across Europe. So get that tent packed, forget about the dubious personal hygiene issues and check out the top 5 parties taking place this summer. Just don’t forget the baby wipes!

1. Glastonbury, United Kingdom, June 24 – 28

Kicking off the season is the old granddaddy of the festivals. Since the first event took place in 1970, on the day after Jimi Hendrix’s death, Glastonbury has become synonymous with the free-spirited festival vibe. Despite controversy in recent years over increased security and restrictive ticketing measures, the festival remains one of the most loved and celebrated musical events of the summer.

Headline acts this year include Blur, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen and Franz Ferdinand, yet Glastonbury is about much more than just the music. With activities and entertainment taking place for several days during the run up to the main event, it is an experience not to be missed.

But remember, Glastonbury is famous for its bad weather – so come prepared to brave the mud!

2. Roskilde, Denmark, July 2 – 5

Denmark’s premier musical event takes place the weekend after Glastonbury and the two festivals have grown up along remarkably similar lines. Roskilde, which was also founded in the early 1970s, originally catered for just a few hundred hippies but has since evolved into one of the largest music fesitvals in Europe. Organised by the Roskilde Foundation, the event is run as a non-profit organisation for the support of music, culture and humanism.

And Roskilde rocks, big time. 2009 sees headline performances from Coldplay, Kanye West, Pet Shop Boys and Slipknot, and is guaranteed to draw crowds from across Scandinavia and beyond.

3. Exit, Serbia, July 9 – 12

With its picturesque setting in the eighteenth century fortress of Novi Sad, its turbulent political background and its trailblazing musical lineups, Exit has quickly become a bit of a legend amongst festival goers. Originally held over 100 days during the summer of 2000, the festival began as a protest against the oppressive political regime of Serbian President, Slobodan Milošević.

Perfectly capturing the zeitgeist of its era, Exit has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the last decade and is pulling out all the stops for its tenth anniversary this year. Despite being considerably pared down since the original event – four days rather than 100 – the festival retains its innovative spirit, with performances from Moby, Madness, Arctic Monkeys and Kraftwerk.

What’s more, at just £72 per ticket, Exit is one of the best value festivals you will find.

4. Benicassim, Spain, July 16 – 19

If the thought of three days camping in a muddy field is enough to turn you off the festival experience for good, then Benicassim is the event for you. Think sun, sea, and dancing on a beach – this is what all festivals should be like!

Taking place in the port town of the same name near Valencia,  Benicassim is guaranteed to be a sun-soaked affair. No need to pack the waterproofs for this one.

Focusing mainly on alternative rock and electronica, the festival also celebrates short films, theatre, fashion and art. And with headline acts including Oasis, Kings of Leon, Franz Ferdinand and The Killers, Benicassim 2009 is set to be huge.

5. Sziget, Hungary, August 12 – 17

Considered by many to be Europe’s answer to the Burning Man festival, Sziget takes place annually in Budapest, on a leafy island in the Danube River. Established as a low key event in 1993, the festival has exploded over recent years, becoming increasingly popular with music fans throughout Western Europe. It is estimated that 50% of Sziget’s visitors now come from outside of Hungary, particularly from France, Germany, Italy and the UK.

For a truly international feel and some of the best acts around, Sziget is definitely the place to be. Headline performances for 2009 come from The Prodigy, Pendulum, Primal Scream, Snow Patrol and Bloc Party.

Photo of  Sigùr Rós live performance at the Benicassim Festival Scmollmoch

Huge structures are erected, only to be torn down again a week later. Cities of tents are founded, pathways cut and fences built. The sun shines down on tanned, grinning faces bouncing up and down in perfect unison. Good will flows through the oceans of people, positive energy is literally humming above the temporary city. Music pounds from surreal stages day and night, spilling out and becoming part of the very environment, as the citizens commit themselves to dancing, drinking, singing, relaxing, socializing and generally taking a holiday from the real world. This is madness. This is music. This is hedonism. This is Roskilde.

Over the last 37 years that the festival has been taking place, the event has grown into a gigantic gathering of music lovers. The population of the small town swells to nearly four times its original size. In the summer of 2008, Roskilde was estimated to have nearly 150,000 attendants. There are a large number of camping areas, some of which take 30 minutes to walk to from the main stages. This only exaggerates the feeling of being within a temporary city that has just dropped down from the sky. There’s a small lake perfect for swimming when the weather gets too hot, as long as you don’t mind seeing the occasional naked Dane. Clustered around the quarry that is being dug out of the middle of the festival (the land is still privately owned, even though the Roskilde Foundation funds the festival) is a variety of food stalls, for a price that is reasonable considering the exorbitant prices that many festivals escape with nowadays.

The festival arena itself is complete with everything you could need to spend the entire day listening to music, lounging around in the sun and spending time with new and old friends. All in all there are 7 stages, built up over the last 37 years. The gigantic Orange stage that graced the early Roskilde festivals is still the sight of the biggest bands, with a huge swathe of lawn in front of it able to accommodate 60,000 people. This stage has seen such huge names as Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bob Dylan, Nirvana, Sex Pistols, Smashing Pumpkins and many more. Mainly rock bands that draw massive crowds, the Orange Stage is the centre of the entire festival. On either side of the central stage are more stages, each accommodating varying amounts of listeners and suited to particular music. The Arena stage is the second largest, and hosts everything from electronic to swing music. Cosmopol is a large tent made for dancing, hosting hip-hop and Urban world music. Following this are the Odeon and Astoria which host a variety of genres. The Astoria has a completely unique feel being the only inside venue, complete with bar and chandelier. Finally there is the Pavilion stage for smaller, acoustic acts and Pavilion Junior for the up-and-coming artists that Roskilde is known to acknowledge and propagate.

There are multiple sections to the festivals, complete with a hammock area with around a hundred hammocks hung from posts outside the Pavilion stage, a bus that doubles as a pankcake café, lots of vendors and food, shaded copse’s to escape from the sun and plenty of panels that have been specifically prepared for the festival by looking grafitti artists. Every effort has been made by the Roskilde Foundation to provide an embracing environment as well as attract popular names. The foundation is also environmentally responsible, rewarding people who recycle their plastic cups or collect cans with free beer. On top of this, Roskilde is acknowledged as one of the safest festivals in Europe. The foundation goes to extraordinary lengths before each festival to make sure that the entire grounds are secure and able to cope with the huge amounts of people.

Aiding this feeling of comfort and security is that the festival does not feel like a immense, impersonal place where young and old simply arrive to listen to music and then go their separate ways. The sense of community and mutual good will is evident, and traditions that have survived for nearly 40 years are appreciated and respected. Speaking to an old Danish man one afternoon (who, it has to be said, was completely naked) as I laid around outside of a poetry slam in the camp grounds, he talked of how the festival had not changed since he first time 30 years before. He described the Roskilde attendees as a large family, that although didn’t see each often very regularly could meet again and realize that they held the most basic interests and beliefs in common. I’ve been to a few festivals, and as everyone knows they are occasionally a breeding ground for drunkenness and drug use. And although these things (especially drinking) are prevalent, it is impossible to feel intimidated. There is a general good feeling towards your common man, and even in the most bizarre situations there is no trace of ill-will or aggressiveness in the air. There is also a perfect balance of security forces, that are enough to create a sense of control amongst so much anarchy but few enough that they don’t ruin the idea of freedom and liberal expression that Roskilde stands for.

Photo of girls covered with mug at the Roskilde Festival, Denmark, by Stig Nygaard

Summer in Finland is short but filled with festivals from the smallest local events to the big rock festivals that attract tens of thousands of visitors. There is tango, there is jazz, and there is of course a lot of rock. Here is the top three of Finland’s rock summer. More information about all kinds of Finnish festivals can be found at www.festivals.fi.

1. Provinssirock

Provinssirock in Seinäjoki starts the Finnish rock summer. This legendary festival offers a good mix of Finnish and international bands and calls itself “The Party Of The People”. This year’s festival in the Törnävä Festival Park in Seinäjoki is the 31st Provinssirock, and goes on from 12th to 14th of June. Find out more at www.provinssirock.net.

2. Ruisrock

Ruisrock started in 1970 and is one of the oldest rock festivals in the world. It has often managed to lure legendary acts to the beautiful Ruissalo park just outside Turku, on the southwest coast of Finland. Ruisrock attracts big crowds, and its recent record year was 2005, when 71 000 ticket holders attended the three day festival.

This year’s Ruisrock is held from 3rd July to 5th July. More information about the line-up can be found at www.ruisrock.fi.

3. Ilosaarirock

Tickets to Ilosaarirock are always sold out in advance. Many Finns prefer this festival, held in Joensuu in Eastern Finland, to some of the bigger events. Ilosaarirock usually offers a wide variety of artists and bands, and promises 100 bands this year. During the festival there are many concerts going on in Joensuu’s bars and clubs as well.

Ilosaarirock 2009 is held from 17th to 19th of July, and more information about artists and ticket sales can be found at www.ilosaarirock.fi

Photo of the Flaming Lips concert at Ruisrock Festival 2007, Finland, by  decade null

Since then the city has been able to successfully detach itself from the dark memories that the name of Hitler evokes and from the reputation of being near the last concentration camp from the infamous historical epoch. However, the cultural epicenter status is no longer a dream. A great place to visit at any time, a trip to Linz this year will be especially rewarding because it has been chosen to be Europe’s cultural host. Linz- the capital of European cultural tourism sitting pretty on the banks of the Danube is a flourishing city which has achieved a unique and rare blend of consciously preserved nature, environment conscious, yet highly successful industrial belts and a thriving cultural scene and as the Capital of Culture 2009 it will showcase all of this. An almost utopic modern urban city it has something for every visitor.

Rarely will the lover of history and culture find a more diverse cultural scene in one city. Interactive art, fine arts, contemporary art, media art, music and theater – every tourist can choose from the riches according to his taste and mood.

Linz Museums

The Lentos Art Museum in Linz opened in May 2003 and put Linz on the map as far as international art museums go. In addition to being the most important museum of modern art in Austria, this long building stretching to a hundred and thirty meters right on the Danube is an architectural marvel too. The transparent glass ceiling not only makes the inside of the museum look incredibly attractive during daytime, it is a most stunning sight at night when it is brilliantly lit. Architecturally a very successful blending of the modern within the old and of extreme functionality within beauty, the OK Offenes Kulturhaus Oberösterreich is an extremely important museum of contemporary art. Its website claims that it is “an experimental laboratory for exploring art.” Visitors can soak in this unique atmosphere which provides mostly young artists with not only a platform to present their art but a workshop-laboratory wherein to develop their art. Several important exhibitions run all through the year.

Cultural, natural and art history is preserved in the Oberösterreichische Landesmuseum. This museum is Austria’s first official institution created to promote contemporary art. Comprising of several important buildings like the Castle Museum and the Biology Center in Linz, the Oberösterreichische Landesmuseumis spread through the city. For the honest art enthusiasts there are specialized tours in which experts and museum curators guide the visitor through the most important exhibits and exhibitions as also tours that allow conversations with the artists. For the more laid back tourist there are special family afternoons.

The Ars Electronica is a museum of interactive art that definitely must not be missed. It focuses on the ever fluid relationship between art, technology and society. Don’t miss the important award ceremony, the Prix Ars Electronica to be held in September this year.

Music and drama in Linz

As the birthplace of Anton Bruckner does it come as any surprise that Linz’s most famous concert hall is called the Brucknerhaus? The Brucknerhaus opened its doors more than three decades ago and since then it has held about two hundred events every year with almost a hundred and eighty thousand visitors regularly walking in to listen to some of the greatest composers. The Bruckner orchestra is famous throughout the world. Depending on the time of your visit don’t forget to experience one of the several concert events held here. Several trendy theaters dot the streets the most famous of which is the Landestheater once much visited by Hitler and friends, mainly to listen to Wagner. Today it holds regular events in all genres including the opera.

Annual Events in Linz

The world’s largest media art festival is held here in Linz every September. Since 1979 Ars Electronica has attracted thousands of visitors to Linz. In 2009 it will be held from the third of September to the eighth. From a mere twenty participants in its first year, last year the event attracted scientists and artists from twenty five countries with the numbers running up to more than four hundred. The digital revolution truly comes into its own here. During Pflasterspektakel the whole city center is converted into a carnival of sorts with music, theater, pantomime, clowns and what not ensuring that no tourist sits in their hotel rooms during those three days in July.

The Brucknerfest promises to be especially grand with Dennis Russel Davies performing Hayden’s “The Creation” and performances by Zubin Mehta and the Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra. The Trio of concerts called Klangwolken combines music and laser and fireworks show, an especially for children show and a classical music show. This Linz Cloud of Sound festival brings alight the sky atop and the Danube underneath. Danube Park comes alive touching every one of the human senses.

In 2009 a trip to Linz will be unforgettable, guaranteed! Give this Capital of Culture a chance to host you and to show you why it has earned this enviable title.

Photo of Ars ElectronicaCenter and Lentos Art Museum, Linz, Austria, by x-hibit

• Mike Salzburg invites you to vote the best travel blogger in the bloggersguide competition.

• Thanks to the rolling duffles bag you can win with WeJustGotBack.com you won’t feel anymore the  to the pack horse of the family in your trips.

• If you are planning a trip to Bath, ukseries advises you to attend to the 61st Bath International Music Festival.

• Great tip by mylittleswans: delight with gourmet contemporary Italian wood-oven cuisine right in London.

Container ships from oversea

Hamburg is a wonderful harbour city in the north of Germany, which lies directly at the river Elbe. The harbour of Hamburg is internationally very important for its goods, which come from overseas with huge container ships. Those big containers were lift up with a crane and are stored on land, where they will be lift up on a truck for example. It is so amazing to watch this process in the harbour of Hamburg. I can stand there for hours and watch the ships coming in. In these huge cranes is just sitting one person, who is handling one of the amazing cranes. And it looks so easy to put these containers on a truck or on land. Sometimes they lift up container from the ships and on the other day there are ships, which will be filled up with other containers. This big place has a lovely postcard view when the sunset starts.

The companies are starting every year an open day for everyone, where you can look behind the process and of course what’s going on in the companies. The staffs are showing you around and answer questions of the viewers. A lot of working steps will be shown and described.

Barges and Fish Market

When you come closer to the Landungsbruecken of Hamburg, you can watch some cruise liner and barges, which come along the Landungsbruecken. Next to the Landungsbruecken is the popular fish market of Hamburg. You can take a barge to see some nice places of the harbour and be very close to the ships, which lie on the docks. The captain of these barges is describing and explaining the harbour of Hamburg and the historical background very good.

The fish market in Hamburg is right in the harbour in and around the “Fischauktionshalle” of Hamburg. You can buy some excellent and fresh fish there and you can also get yourself some flowers, plants and vegetables. A full arm of plants is very cheap to get and you can bargain about the price. Also fish is very easy to get for a good price there and if you want some more fresh fish, you will get special price for it. The funniest thing about the fish market is that you can get so many things there and every seller is calling around to praise their products to the customer in a very special and funny way. Most of the sellers have this nice Hamburg dialect, which sounds pretty funny to viewers and tourists. You really don’t need to be afraid of them, they just calling to get your attention.

Museum Ships

If you want to visit an old and historical sail ship, you should visit the Rickmer Rickmers at the Landungsbruecken. It is a museum ship on water and you can visit this wonderful ship for 3 Euros. You can walk around and watch everything, which you would like to see. You will also get to know more about the history of this ship and what happens to it. You can also sit down in the comfortable restaurant on board and take a little rest. The view from the ship is very impressive. This ship is over 112 years old and nearly 100 m long.

You can find another museum ship called “Cap San Diego” at the “Ueberseebruecke”. It is an old general cargo ship, where you can take a look around and visit the over 16 davits and two cranes on board. This ship is used for different events in Hamburg, like the legendary Hamburg Harbour Birthday. So if you want to take a little tour with the museum ship, you should take a look at their homepage to find out the dates when the ship is leaving its anchorage.

Hamburg Harbour birthday

In German it is called “Hafengeburtstag” and it is a big event in Hamburg along the beautiful harbour with millions of people celebrating the harbour birthday. Every year around the 8th of May is this awesome event, which is celebrated with a lot of music and good temper. At the beginning of the birthday is a nice church service in the St. Katharinen Church to open the weekend event. On Friday around 3 o’clock is the legendary running-in parade, where nearly all ships of the harbour coming in. This occasion is very breathtaking and absolutely amazing to watch. You should really film this highlight, if you have a video camera. You can see the romantic harbour lights on the water when it is dark outside. There is also a traditionally firework display on Saturday night, which you shouldn’t miss. It is so amazing to watch it and listen to the firework music.

You can take a look at the shops around the Fischauktionshalle, where they sell different kind of stuff and of course something to drink and eat. You can listen to music or take a ride in one of the fast carousels at this place. It is so much fun to visit this event and spend a few hours there.

Nice places for lunch or dinner

An great restaurant in the Hamburg harbour is the restaurant “IndoChine”. The lunch and dinner in this Indonesian restaurant is delicious, but not very cheap. So if you are looking for a cheap restaurant you should better take a look in the restaurant “Hummer Pedersen”. This yummy restaurant is right at the fish market of Hamburg. The meals aren’t too expensive and you have a tasty menu. A very famous restaurant which is called “Oberhafenkantine” gives the visitors cheap and typically northern meals. You can find it next to the Oberhafenbruecke.

Especially Hamburg has some really delicious fish restaurants in each part of Hamburg and the fish is always fresh and tasty. You can also find a lot of Chinese, Italian and Spanish restaurants in this area too. There is always a restaurant for everyone’s taste.

Photo of Hamburg’s Old Harbour by kliefi

Are you planning a fun-filled vacation with your loved ones to Dubrovnik, Croatia? You know, a few days of soothing sun, catching a glimpse of the expansive sea views as well as soaking up the rich local culture? Well, Dubrovnik is the best place for a few days of fun in the sun. Question is, how do you pick out exciting activities for the whole family?Say no more. Here’s a list of fantastic little spots in Dubrovnik that is perfect for everyone.

1. Kopakabana (Copacabana) Beach

This is a charming little beach located in Babin Kuk (Lapad Suburb). The best bit about this scenic pebble beach is its idyllic atmosphere; while it is one of the more popular beaches in Dubrovnik, it lacks the high-paced vibe of other beaches.

What’s there to do in Kopakabana? Glad you asked. The sport-lovers will have a field day in the sea – think jet ski, kayak, parachute boat ride. That should be plenty of excitement for the hyperactive teenagers. As for the little ones, there are sea slide chutes whereabouts they can run around in their own little haphazard way. On a side note, look out for the lift that helps elderly folk get in and out of the sea.

Here’s a heads up for the moms and dads. There are quieter beach spots in the Babin Kuk area, one or more of which are popular naturist beaches (e.g. Cava beach). So it’s a just a warning when traveling with your little ones.

2. Roland’s column / Orlando’s column

This is an excellent sightseeing addition that appeals both to culture crazy adults and inquisitive teens alike.

First things first. What is this column all about? It is a grand, intricately designed structure with depicting a sword-wielding knight. Story goes that this statue was dedicated to a famous knight( some believe it is none other than Charlemagne’s nephew), a brave warrior of legendary times. At this point you can imagine the awe in the little ones eyes. Starting out as a symbol of independence, this column later came to represent the city’s strength and perseverance throughout the times.

Here’s an extra bit of fascinating facts – this column that dates back around 600 years, was the preferred spot for announcements, rallies and punishments!

Where is it located? Roland’s Column is located on the eastern end of Stradun, close to Sponza Place and right by the gate of Ploča.

3. Taj Mahal

Don’t let the name fool you, this quaint little restaurant actually serves delectable East European dishes.

Located in Old Town, this eatery boasts friendly staff and a warm homely atmosphere. From delicious grilled meat dishes to wholesome vegetarian meals like the spinach strudel, there’s plenty of choices for everyone. For a taste of European cuisine, check out Bosnian specialties like ćevepi, bureci and pite. Unlike the chic spots targeting tourists, this place is a quaint little side-street restaurant with its own personal flair. Be warned, it is popular and thus, can get a bit busy at times. On the bright side, then you can opt for the take-out option.

Where is it located? The address for Dubrovnik’s own little Taj Mahal is Svetog Dominika b.b., Dubrovnik. (Tel: +385.020.322.220).

4. Dubrovnik’s Summer Festival

If you are visiting this idyllic holiday spot in summer, it’s a great idea to check out the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

Dubrovnik Festival can best be described as a jubilant six weeks in summer when people meet up to celebrate art, culture, beauty and diversity. Relaxed, cheerful and informative, this festival appeals to various age groups. There are musical performances, exhibitions, food stalls, fine art and culture shows and so much more.

Those of you who would like to learn a little bit more (so where can I buy tickets, when does this take place, can I see what it looks like, so on and so forth) can find out more through this website – Dubrovnik Festival.

And there you have it. Four activities / events in Dubrovnik that caters to the whole family.

Photo of  Dubrovnik, Croatia,  by gari.baldi

• For those of you looking for great Italian food in Camden, London, Yourlocalcamden reviews a new design restaurant serving Sicilian food.

• Visiting Sicily in May? Italy Italia makes you discover Sicily’s Flower Festival held in the beautiful Baroque city of Noto.

•  Looking for a great pasta recipe?Jaycross suggests pasta with sardines and fennel, a delicious recipe from Castellammare, Sicily.

• Traveling to Syracuse? Sicilyguide announces that the program of classic performances at the Greek Theater is now available.

• If you want to read more travel stories on Sicily, Ladyjayde invites you to subscribe to My Sicilian Siesta blog.

Photo of Syracuse’s Greek Theater, Sicily, Italy, by Dario dado.

Holiday in Sardinia

On Vacation Travel Trends, Terry Roberts blogs about his recent trip to Italy. Terry and his wife took a low cost flight from Madrid, Spain, to Sardinia, and stayed at the Bed and Breakfast Solemare in Alghero.

San Francisco Bay to Breakers 2009

MetroWize publishes a survival guide to Bay to Breakers 2009. Taking place in San Francisco, CA, this annual foot race is a very popular event with plenty of fun, music, participants dressed up in costume and… naked people!

Hotel Photo Shoot

If you are fan of Sandrine, check out a blog post by the Australian pop singer who did a photo shoot  for various music magazines at the Hotel La Tour d’Auvergne in Paris, France.

Japan for Foodies

BrilliantTips makes you discover the best food to eat in Japan, from delicious sushi in Tokyo to tasty crab dishes in Sapporo to candies and sweets in Kyoto.

Environment-Friendly Water Bottles

Go Green Travel Green reviews Kleen Kanteen Stainless Steel water bottles.

Photo of Alghero, Sardinia, by ♯ff000

• Autoinfos invites you in the Planète Auto in Paris, France, from July 1st to July 2nd.

• ejdurant gives you more information on the new Paris attraction, the Phare building, that will be completed by 2015.

• hinudotcom recommends you Matmos and Fraction in Café de la Danse, Paris, for an electronic soirée.

• Evous informs us of the Japanese martial arts expo at the Maison de la culture du Japon, in Paris, up until July 5th.

• Do you want to virtually visit Paris? Give a glimpse on this three-hour-tour pictures by ScottAbraham

Photo of tourist taking pictures in Paris by ollographik

The striking Paris Gay Pride (Marche des Fiertés) takes place yearly at the end of June. This gay parade joins even hundreds of thousands of people walking and getting fun in a lively and colorful procession that breaks out into a dynamic party in the gay-friendly Paris-Marais district.

Gay-friendly Hotels in Paris

If you are planning to attend to the Paris LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Gay Pride, you could think about staying at the Hotel École Centrale, a charming hotel listed in the LGBT’s association,  or the Murano Urban Resort, that offers guests a courtesy safe sex tray with various condoms. Both hotels located a stone’s-throw away from the Centre Georges Pompidou and the MK2 Beaubourg Cinéma, offering you a range of gay movies.

Le Marais: culture, shopping and gay nightlife

While getting around Le Marais, Victor Hugo’s House is worth-visiting, as well as Brancusi’s workshop, the European House of Photography, Arts et Métiers Museum, the Picasso Museum, and the Cognac-Jay Museum.

Paris Gai Village is a group of gay and lesbian professionals sharing the passion for the history and culture of the city, that will show you the sprightliest and most unique gay spots of the city.

When it comes to talk about nightlife, Le Marais is definitely the Paris area that firstly comes to your mind. Some tips on a perfect soirée in gay Paris: an intimate dinner or a cup of wine in Le Colimaçon, a drink in the Open Café and some dance in Raiddbar music bar. For party animals, the night goes on at Le Bains Douches.

Le Marais is not only known for its gay clubs but also for its alternative boutiques such as Rex Fetish, with vintage, leather, metal and latex clothes, as well as a range of accessories; Metamorph’ose with sexy dresses, for women, men and transgender; and IEM selling gay cinema, magazines, and exclusive dresses in leather and latex.

Photo of “Baguette Magique” French bread in Le Marais bakery shop window, Paris, by cameronparkins