Every year inter-railers, backpackers and travellers of all kinds pass through this wonderful city and spend their days seeing the sights, visiting the museums and taking in the culture. However, when the sun goes down the party starts, so here is a brief guide of the good bars and clubs.

1. Flex

Flex is the granddaddy of Vienna clubs as evidenced by its longevity and prominent listing in the Lonely Planet guidebooks. It is also one of the most mainstream clubs in the city and so while it guarantees a good night out surrounded by beautiful people, anyone looking for a more underground experience may want to look elsewhere. The location is pretty central, near Schottenring U-Bahn station and right beside the Donau canal. Easy to find, hard to leave, it’s easy to see why this club has lasted so long.

2. Passage

Located in a subterranean passageway, the owners clearly went for the literal option when naming Passage. This bar cum club therefore allows visitors to party directly under one of the main roads of Vienna, the Ringstrasse. This place has a more underground feel (excuse the pun) than Flex, music ranges from funk and soul to advanced but obscure techno music that reminds people Germany is only next door.

3. Fledermaus

‘Fledermaus’ means bat in German and this may seem like a strange name for a club, but when you remember that the ancient cellars of the city where the club is located would have been infested with the animals until not so long ago it begins to make sense. This is one of the more unconventional clubs, they have regular events and imaginative themed evenings most nights where locals and visitors alike party into the small hours in a variety of outlandish ways.

4. American Bar

For those hankering for a less extensive party there are of course more sedate options than the above. I particularly enjoyed the American Bar due to a penchant for design chic and classic cocktails which make for a classy combination. Rumours persist about tourists being thrown out by irate staff after trying to take pictures without buying any drinks but this is unconfirmed. If you don’t want to take any chances then order a cocktail or two before attempting any photography.

5. Heaven Vienna

Finally, Heaven Vienna caters to ‘gays and friends of gays’ and puts on parties like only gay Europeans can. Based on the London super-club of the same name, this is the place for no holes barred night long fun (again, excuse the pun) with decadence and outrage assured. Anyone with social hang ups or an aversion to the exotic will want to stay as far away from this place as possible.

Top 5 Apartments in Vienna

• ViennApart – €81 per night
• Appartement zur Zahnradbahn- €59 per night
• Apartment Vienna Comfort – €77 per night
• Apartment Ferchergasse – €70 per night
• City Apartment Stuwerstraße- €80 per night

Photo of Flex night club, Vienna, Austria, by Andreika

Although jazz was born in the United States (arguably in New Orleans in the late 19th century), the form quickly spread to Europe, as many African-American “jazzmen” found that their brand of music was both taken more seriously and considered more acceptable across the ocean than back at home. Paris, in particular, opened its arms to these innovative musicians, many of whom settled in Paris after fighting in Europe during World War I. Many jazz historians feel that were it not for Paris’s whole-hearted welcome of jazz and African-American jazz musicians, the music might never have fully developed and found its place in the world.

From 1914 through the 1930’s, the hot spot for jazz in Paris was old Montmartre, a section of the city in which many African-American jazz musicians lived, and the site of many legendary jazz clubs, including Le Grand Duc and Bricktop’s. Decades later, the now ritzy streets just off of the Champs-Elysees were the place to go. Today, jazz can be found all over the city, from huge public venues, to small cozy settings, to a single musician blowing jazz standards on his sax on (or under) a bridge.

If you’re looking for a good venue to enjoy jazz on your trip to Paris, here are a few options.

1. Le Duc des Lombards.

This well-known jazz club has been around for nearly 25 years, and holds a reputation for being warm, intimate and open. Top-notch musicians from around the globe play here, including Steve Swallow, Michele Hendricks, Paolo Fresu. Known especially for its free jazz, you’ll be transported back to the ‘50’s and ‘60s from the first note.

42 rue des Lombards, 1st arrondissement, Paris. Tel. 01.42.33.22.88.

Admission: € 19-25, depending on the performers.

2. New Morning.

One of the most popular jazz clubs in Paris, New Morning holds about 300 people when at capacity, but still manages to have a personal vibe. In terms of décor, don’t expect anything fancy: there are only wooden folding chairs and small tables on which to place your drinks – but you’ll forget about that once the music starts. Buy your ticket in advance, if possible. The lines for tickets the night of a particular concert can get pretty long.

7-9 Rue des Petites Ecuries, 10th arrondissement, Paris. Tel: 01 45 23 56 39.

Admission: € 10, approx.

3. Café Laurent.

This low-key hotel jazz bar has yet to become a big name in Paris, but as far as I’m concerned – that’s great. This is my favorite place to kick back on a comfortable sofa, order a (really well-made) cocktail, and listen to some first-rate jazz. The Christian Brenner trio plays every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening, and often invites guest musicians and vocalists from around the world to join them.

33 rue Dauphine, 6th arrondissement, Paris. Tel. 01 43 29 03 33.

Admission: No cover, just one €10 drink minimum after 9pm.

4. Parc Floral Jazz Festival.

If you are a jazz-lover and happen to be in Paris in June and July, you’ll definitely have to check out the annual Jazz Festival at the beautiful Parc Floral de Paris. There are about 1500 seats available, but why not just take a blanket, a bottle of wine and a picnic basket and listen to blissful jazz on the grass, under blue skies? Concerts take place every Saturday and Sunday in June and July, starting from 3pm.

Parc Floral de Paris, boulevard de Ménilmontant, 20th arrondissement, Paris.

Admission: €5.

5. Autour de Midi…et Minuit.

Those who want to listen to jazz on the stomping grounds of the original jazzmen of the 1920’s and 1930’s, will enjoy this cozy club in Montmartre. Although it has not been around long – it opened in 2001 – it has made quite an impression on jazz aficionados. And with its lovely “double voutée” (double vaulted) stone ceilings, even people very into jazz must agree that the place wins top marks for atmosphere.

11, rue Lepic, 18th arrondissement, Paris. Tel.: 01.55.79.16.48

Top 5 Popular Hotels in Montmartre, Paris

• Hotel Le Relais Montmartre – 3-Star Hotel – Room Price: €155
• Le Char Noir Design Hotel – 2-Star Hotel – Room Price: €166
• Hotel de Flore – 2-Star Hotel – Room Price: €85
• Hotel Régyn’s Montmartre – 2-Star Hotel – Room Price: €91
• Timhotel Montmartre – 2-Star Hotel – Room Price: €79

Photo of Jazzmen playing on Arcole Bridge, Paris, by Mohsan

If you happen to visit France, I very much recommend dropping by its southwestern part which is the near-coastal region of Bordeaux. Easily reachable via road, train or plane, you might know or heard of Bordeaux as a beautiful place where they take their wine seriously. And they should because wine-making in Bordeaux is a tradition which started 2000 years ago. At present, the thriving wine-making business is a billion dollar industry. But surely, there’s more to Bordeaux besides its top-notch wines. Here’s a few remarkable stuff worth mentioning about the wine center of France, Bordeaux.

1. Travel through Time

Like a grandiose 17th century setting out of a fairytale book, Bordeaux has at least 5,000 uniquely-styled gothic-baroque inspired buildings which portray the region’s rich historical background.

Fun fact: Bordeaux features some of France’s oldest museums that houses important specimens and artifacts, ranging from zoological samples to historic documents and displays from the French resistance in the Second World War.

2. Culture and Art on Wheels

People from Bordeaux are passionate about art just like they are passionate with wine. To help facilitate art and culture awareness in Bordeaux, the Modern Art Bus was established to travel all around Bordeaux in search of different art exhibits.

Fun Fact: The Modern Art Bus is a great way to see the works of famous visual artists such as Andy Warhol and Pablo Picasso.

3. Shop till You Drop

Known as the longest shopping strip in Europe, the Rue Saint Catherine is a 1.2 kilometer-long stretch of high-end shops, brasseries, cafés and shopping centers. This includes the famous department store “Galeries Lafayette” which has its interiors designed to resemble a royal palace.

Fun fact: Bring your walking shoes and be careful when walking around Rue Saint Catherine when it’s raining because the polished pavement can be pretty slippery!

4. Authentic French Cuisine

It’s not difficult for restaurants around Bordeaux to get the freshest ingredients to whip up the best dishes. Try a delicate-tasting foie gras (fattened duck’s liver) or choose from the many different cheeses of the region. How about some fresh Atlantic oysters?

Fun fact: A scrumptious meal is best accompanied by a great-tasting wine so try to find that perfect vintage to complement meals at the many wine bars scattered around Bordeaux.

5. Dynamic Bordeaux Nightlife

There’s a wide variety of things to do in Bordeaux after sun down. Chill at the local pubs, cafes and bars around Place de la Victoire for some live music paired with a relaxing atmosphere for a stress free evening. Or check out the night scene at Quai de Paludate if you’re into loud music and wild dancing.

Fun Fact: along the Rue Saint Catherine is the 250-year old Bordeaux Grand Theater. Wouldn’t it be nice to catch an opera, concert or ballet on stage after dark?

Top 5 Hotels in Bordeaux City Center

• Hotel Burdigala – 4-Star Hotel – Double Room €210
• Quality Hotel Sainte-Catherine – 3-Star Hotel – Double Room €87
• Hotel Le Chantry – 2-Star Hotel – Double Room €57
• Best Wester Grand Hôtel Français – 3-Star Hotel – Double Room €139
• Hotel Gambetta – 2-Star Hotel – Double Room €96

Photo of the Fontaine des Trois Grâces in Bordeaux, France, by Arnaud Bertrande

Pubs are very popular today and that is a direct result from a lot of “expats” living in Budapest. On the other hand, it has also resulted from the low cost airlines that bring a multitude of those weekenders touring the city.

Belgium beer, German beer, and “pints” of the more traditional British ales and beers can be found in most of the current establishments. Additionally, the food found in these pubs is nothing shy of excellent and you are able to eat exceptionally well considering that their menus offer hamburgers, rustic snacks, and steaks to the delight of most traveling palates.

At nightfall, nearly Pub metamorphoses into a club (disco-esque), complete with dancing and excellent local music. Naturally, there is a wide array of choices when it comes to flirting with the opposite gender. Here is a list of the more frequented and popular pubs in Budapest:

#1 – Caledonia Pub and Sportsbar

Authentic Scottish Pub that offers the best beers from home for the visiting Scotsman. Caledonia’s ambiance is exceptional as appears like a Scottish situated in the midst of downtown Budapest. In addition to those tasty Scottish beers, foods as well as souvenirs from home can be had as well.

#2 – Irish Cat Pub

A favorite place of Budapest expats to hang out and mingle, this establishment is located at Kalvin ter in the heart of Budapest. Easter and Halloween are just two of the events during the year where the club hosts special parties and features the best in local live music.

#3 – Fat Mo’s

Located in the heart of Budapest’s most “touristy” section next to Vaci utca, this well-known place is frequented by expats and tourists on a regular basis. Live music every evening and excellent dining is the main fare at Fat Mo’s.

#4 – Becketts Pub and Sportsbar

Well known for featuring live Budapest football (soccer), especially the English Premier League, and like so many other pubs in the city, offers beer in pints, great food, and an English pub-like atmosphere.

#5 – Old Man’s Music Pub

One of the most favorite hang-outs for Budapest expats. full of expats. You would never be able to guess how large the place is based on the tiny entrance that you pass through.

#6 – Jam Pub

Located in the cellar of the popular Mammut Shopping Center, the entrance is located between the two Mammut buildings. Men normally pay a small cover fee while the girls get in free of charge.

Popular Budget Hotels in Budapest

• Jade Guest House – Double room: €20 per night
• Origo Hostel & Guest House – Double room: €34 per night
• Villa Korall Panzio – double room: €39 per night
• Pension Papillon – Double room: €55 per night
• Dominik Panzio – Double room: €27 per night

Photo of Fat Mo’s by FatMandy

If you are on the look out of chilling out and relaxing after a day of sightseeing, here is a list of some of the best pubs and restaurants in Agrigento:

Atenea Street and Viale della Vittoria

Situated in the nearby city of San Leone 2km from the center of Agrigento, this is where you will find the majority of the bars and pubs geared to the younger age groups although it is frequented by tourists in most age groups. The Oceanomare is probably the nicest pub and restaurant in the area although the Ficus Bar and Le Dynamique are excellent choices as well.

You will find if you visit either of these two pub and restaurant lined streets that the ones situated on Atenea Street are more casual, whereas the pubs and restaurants located on the Viale della Vittoria are more fashionable and upper class. So make sure you’re dressed accordingly depending on which area you’re going to visit. Keep in mind that the majority of the locals have the tendency to dress up a bit in the evenings.

Agrigento’s Restaurant Scene

Agrigento is widely known for its wide array of Greek and Sicilian cuisine and we have listed what we feel are the top restaurants in the Agrigento area:

• Spizzulio – Italian and Mediterranean delicatessen

• QOC – a must for dining with some outstanding Italian faire

• Baglio Sicilia Antica – the best in Sicilian cuisine

• Ruga Reali – Greek and Italian cuisine, mostly seafood entrees

• Expanificio – fine Italian cuisine geared to the budget conscious traveler

• Pizzeria Jack – kid-friendly pizzeria that serves other Italian dishes as well

• La Borghesiana – one of the better Italian and Mediterranean restaurants for pasta and pizza

• Perbacco Ristorante Vineria – one of the top Italian menus in Agrigento

• Trattoria dei Templi – again another top choice for Italian cuisine but a bit pricey

• Leon d’Oro – probably the priciest restaurant in Agrigento ($50 to $60 per person), but the menu is an amazing mixture of Italian, Mediterranean, and Sicilian cuisine

If you’re more into Mediterranean cuisine with a little Greek thrown in for good measure, we recommend you try the Akropolis Restaurant. It can get a bit expensive though as plates average any where from $40 to $60 per plate. One way or the other, this one is worth it.

Top 5 Agrigento Hotels with a restaurant

• Hotel Costazzura – 3-Star Hotel – Double from €60
• Baia di Ulisse Beach Hotel – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €69
• Kaos Hotel Best Western – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €79
• Hotel Demetra Resort – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €99
• Colleverde Park Hotel – 4-Star Hotel – Double from €104

Photo of Sicilian pasta courtesy of Colleverde Park Hotel, Agrigento, Italy

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

Regardless of which one of these towns you spend time in, the nightlife at the bars and pubs in and around Desenzano del Garda will keep you hopping until the wee hours of the morning. The following is a list of what we feel is the best bars in the Desenzano del Garda area and surrounding towns.

The Barracuda

Oftentimes rated as a must-see pub in Lake Garda so it is always busy in there once the sun sets. It is a very popular spot with locals and tourists alike. A fun-filled environment with excellent décor, The Barracuda needs to be the #1 priority for a great evening out while visiting the Lake Garda area, especially if you can hang with the locals into the early hours of morning.

The Piano Bar

Situated within the confines of the Grand Hotel, this Lake Garda piano style bar rates on the list of must-see nightspots. The hotel features a pool bar at its private beachfront that is open most hours of the day and into the late evening. So it’s a great jaunt for a late night out. There is also a terrace for dining and drinking complete with a live pianist to set the mood.

Art Club Disco

If you’re looking for a bar or a pub, that features dancing, dining, and drinking this is the best of all three worlds. It serves up some of the most tantalizing dishes anywhere in Lake Garda, features a great bar menu, and the dancing venue is probably the most popular in the lake area. But be aware that this is a venue that caters to a younger crowd so at times it gets a bit boisterous and loud in there.

Hollywood Discotheque

Patterned after bars and pubs that you would see around Hollywood and Vine or Sunset Blvd., this disco rocks American style. It is considered to be the happening place for locals from the younger generation to the middle aged crowd and the tourists are always welcome and treated very well. Patterned after a Hollywood villa that looks like it was a 1950’s throwback, Hollywood Discotheque is considered the most happening place at the Lake.

Café Filippini

A great dining and drinking experience to consider when you’re at the lake. One of the best features about this café is that it is open from 8am until 2am Thursdays through Tuesdays. Wednesdays are the only days that they close so you’d have to make another choice to cover that night of the week.

Top 5 Desenzano del Garda Hotels:

• Residence Il Sogno – 4-star Hotel – Room price €90
• Villa Rosa Desenzano Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €170
• Hotel Piccola Vela -  4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Palace Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140
• Park Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Room price €140

Photo of cocktail drinks by Suskela

Italian Flashpacker Andrea Di Tonto invites you to enter a contest to win a poem body writing set and a 2-night stay at the luxury Hotel Omm in Barcelona, Spain.

Party in Palm Beach, FL

Tomorrow night the trendy Hotel Biba, West Palm Beach, Florida, is holding a reggae party (8:00 pm to 1:00 am) with free champagne at the lobby from 9:00 pm to 10:00 pm.

Enjoy Fine Arts in Rimini, Italy

Le Méridien Hotel, Rimini, Italy,  offers guests an art kit in occasion of  the “Da Rembrandt a Gauguin a Picasso” art exhibition that will be held at Sismondo Castle from Oct 10th, 2009 to March 14th, 2010.

Photos courtesy of Hotel Omm Barcelona, Hotel Biba West Palm Beach and Le Méridien Hotel Rimini.

so named because it follows the Otley Road which runs from Leeds city centre (starting as Woodhouse Lane), out to Far Headingley and beyond.

The Otley Run is a route well trodden by the student clubs and societies (frequently in fancy dress), and if you want to see a bit of the real Leeds outside the city centre, then this crawl will show you a side of the city that is both studenty and local, from friendly, cosy pubs to the more upbeat and trendy bars. So, hold onto your hats, I am now going to take you on the mother of all pub crawls:

1. Woodies Ale House, Far Headingley

This is the traditional start of the Otley Run, but Woodies is a great place to go for a drink in its own right. Close to Leeds Metropolitan University Beckett Park Campus, Woodies is loved for its good ales, and is fraternised by locals and students alike. It’s an old pub which is open plan and has a nice wooden interior and a beer garden. You can get Greene King and Ruddles here – so say no more!

2. The Three Horseshoes, Far Headingley

Heading back down the Otley Road in the direction of the city centre you next come to The Three Horseshoes, which is a small traditional stone built pub. There is a welcoming atmosphere, and the place is renowned for its pub quizzes and home cooked food.

3. The New Inn, Far Headingley

The next on the route is the New Inn, which is another pretty stone built pub which looks a bit like a country cottage. You can sit out on benches at the front and watch the world go by as you sip on a real ale, and if the weather’s cold, then you can lounge inside on their comfy chairs and sofas.

4. Headingley Taps, Headingley

The Headingley Taps has an interesting frontage that would not be out of place on the canalside in Amsterdam, but it’s actually like that because it used to be a water pumping station! Now it’s a Wetherspoon’s pub, and so has a fair selection of ales, lagers and other drinks at affordable prices. The service is friendly, and there is plenty of space to park your car at the front.

5. The Arc, Headingley

And now for something completely different – a modern structure in glass and concrete, The Arc really is in the shape of an arc, and has a decidedly contemporary and stylish feel. There are bars on two levels, a lovely view from the balcony, and a lawned garden. The drinks may be a little more expensive here, but the range of beers, wines and cocktails is top class.

6. The Box, Headingley

The Box also has a very urban and stylish feel, with a distinctly box-like exterior. It is a sports bar with screens showing all the big games, and it certainly seems to attract the sporty types. There is a good selection of drinks, and it is known for its large cocktails. Expect decent prices and fast service.

7. The Skyrack, Headingley

The Skyrack is another sports bar, and there are bouncers on the door. You can drink al fresco here if you wish, and they even have outdoor heaters to drive away any winter chills. If you fancy a game of pool there are a couple of pool tables in their own special area.

8. The Original Oak, Headingley

With a whopping great beer garden this pub is great for drinking outdoors, and they sometimes even have a barbecue on. This is one of the most popular student pubs in the area, with bars on two levels, sports screens, and sofas. With reasonably priced drinks this place quickly gets crowded, adding to its lively atmosphere.

9. The Hyde Park, Hyde Park Corner

Popular with students, indie rockers, and sports lovers, the Hyde Park tends to get crowded. They have regular quizzes, and even pool and poker tournaments. They do pub grub, but this is probably not the place to go for a quiet meal!

10. The Library, Woodhouse Lane

Housed in a beautiful municipal-style building, The Library actually used to be a library. They do a good selection of drinks at reasonable prices, and some decent pub food. They have some comedy nights and live music upstairs, making it a good place for small, intimate gigs.

11. The Packhorse, Woodhouse Lane

The Packhorse does a good pint, and attracts the serious real ale lovers. It has a decidedly more local feel than some of the pubs on the crawl. Loved for its character, this pub has been known to become a firm favourite with former students who have settled in the area.

12. The Eldon, Woodhouse Lane

Being right opposite the university, The Eldon is popular with both staff and students alike from that venerable institution. Here you will find a traditional pub interior of wooden screens topped by leaded glass where you can enjoy your pint of real ale in style. There are big plasma screens for watching the sports, but also places to sit where you don’t see them, if keeping an eye on the rugby or soccer is not for you. There is a menu of very reasonably priced pub food, including fish and chips, rump steak and other goodies.

13. The Fenton, Woodhouse Lane

Next on the crawl is the lively and friendly little pub known as The Fenton, which is renowned for its good and reasonably priced real ales. They have Tetley bitter, plus a couple of good guest ales, as well as a fair range of wines. There is also good pub grub with tons of chips! To keep you entertained there is a pool table and a digital juke box.

14. Strawberry Fields, (Strawbs) Woodhouse Lane

But to give you a complete change of scene – Strawberry Fields, aka Strawbs, is not really a pub at all. A cafe by day and a bar by night, you’ll know Strawbs when you see it, because the front is red with massive great strawberries painted on it. Here you can buy some terrific cocktails such as White Russian, Strawberry Sin, Banana Rumble, and a whole rainbow more of them. They also do alcopops, as well as draught and bottled lagers. And the real piece de resistance of Strawbs is that you can even get absinthe here! Mind how you go.

15. The Dry Dock, Woodhouse Lane

And finally we’ve made it to the end of our pub crawl – The Dry Dock looks like a washed up barge in the middle of the road opposite Leeds Met Uni, but in fact it’s a pretty cool pub, with a strong appeal to the alt punk, emo and screamo brigade. Having said that it is a friendly place, and you’ll love it if you like Green Day, New Order, Nine Inch Nails and the like. Here you can get a variety of beers and lagers at affordable prices.

What a long strange journey it’s been! So if you feel like reliving your student days, seeing another side of Leeds, and discovering some good pubs and bars in the process, then the Otley Run could be just what you need.

Top 3 Leeds Hotels on Venere.com

• Holiday Inns Leeds Armouries – 2-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 69
• Crown Plaza Hotel – 4-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 69
• Bewleys Hotel – 3-star Hotel – Double Room from £ 109

Photo of beer ad in Leeds, UK, by Si Wilson

Really, they city so big and sprawling and known as one of the most expensive capitals on our planet is probably hard to visit on low budget. But do not get too skeptical! Here I am to tell you about hidden places and spots that will help you to get to know Moscow better and not to go broke.

Moscow is the city of contrast: the reflection of $200,000 cars in the dirty windows of grey blocks stuffed with small apartments; beautiful ladies in the haute couture dresses walking by the place where babushkas (old women) sell sunflower seeds and cigarettes by the piece; tired and sometimes even colorless faces on metro escalator that goes down to some of the most magnificent stations in the world. What do most people know about this metropolis? Red Square and Kremlin, sable furry and bloody red patches of history! But there is definitely so much more in Moscow you will never be able to know unless you visit this city and try to let its vibe go through you. Now, some local tips.

Tip #1: How to Move Around and Where to Go.

If you are not that familiar with traffic jams, then you will surely get to know them better in the Russian capital. However, you can get along without that knowledge. Get yourself a map of the city metro lines (you can simply download one from the Internet and print it) and walk more. There are so many amazing and special things to see simply walking around and reading the history of the country reflected in the architecture and the mood of the nation echoed in people’ style. You can start from the Red Square where you will see Kremlin in all its glory, St. Basil’s Cathedral with its picturesque domes and Lenin’s Mausoleum, then you can walk down the Moscow river, go to Gorky Park, Lubyanka Square (where the headquarters of all Russian spies are), Manezhnaya Sqare, Arbat and numerous Moscow theaters. Fantastically beautiful VDNH, numerous churches, and parks also should not be overlooked.

Tip #2: Where to Eat in Moscow.

If you are looking for some good place to eat out in Moscow, I recommend that you go to one of those places where they serve Russian cuisine. Is not food one of the best ways of understanding a new culture? What you should definitely try is Russian blini (pancakes, the best are with red caviar, for sure!), pelmeni (dumplings with meat), cold borshch (beet-root soup), smoked fish and delicious jams made from local berries. Great street/casual/cheap food at Teremok and Kroshka Kartoshka stalls you can find in many places all around the city. Besides, to eat well and really cheap (like $3 for a meal), you can go to some university canteen near GITIS theater school (metro Arbat), MArkhl architecture school (metro Kuznetsky Most), or near Moscow State University (metro Universitet). Here are some more places: Tretyakovka Café, Coffee Bean and Max Internet Café (rather good coffee, which is so hard to find fairly priced), and Yadrena Matrena. Just pretend that you are a student and walk in.

Tip #3: Where to Drink in Moscow.

I think that the name of this tip is just right because there could be no doubts about what to drink: vodka, of course! Drinking vodka in Russia is all about traditions. If you want to drink like locals do, never take a sip before raising your glass in a toast. There is such a Russian saying: if you drink without any reason, you are an alcoholic. Typical Russian Nazdorovie! will do and will definitely break the ice, if there is some. The third toast is always for love. Most people are drunk in one shot of vodka; so if you want to survive the night out, do not forget to eat before, preferably something fat. You should try different flavored vodka shots and do not forget about vodka with black pepper. Usually, vodka and other drinks are very overpriced in bars and clubs, so be ready to spend not less then $20. Visit such places as Sorry Babushka, Vision Cocktail Hall, Kitaisky Liotchik (Chinese Pilot), Propoganda, Boscow Bar and Vodka Bar (the name speaks for itself!).

Tip #4: Where to Party in Moscow.

Well, it is pretty difficult to give advice where to club in Moscow to someone who is traveling on a budget. I guess, rule number one here will be: try to avoid paying entrance fee. Usually, there is an entrance fee like $15-30 but in some clubs you can get in for free if you come early enough, before the party starts. You simply need to check out beforehand the rules on the website of the club you want to go to. Do not forget, that the more expensive is the place, the more crazy is the face control and dress code. Here are some nice places you will definitely have fun at: Solyanka, B2, Gaudi Arena, Fabrique Club, or Karma Club.

Tip #5: Where to Stay in Moscow.

After having a good drink and a lot of fun, you should have a place to go back to and have a good sleep. There are not so many cheap hostels in Moscow, but you can choose one of these Napoleon Hostel, Home Hostel, Trans Siberian Hostel, Yellow Blue Bus Hostel or Home from Home Hostel (average cheapest room $25). If this price does not work for you, you might want to try one of those hospitality social networks like HospitalityClub or CouchSurfing. These networks fuse a number of fantastic opportunities altogether: free stay, new friends and better understanding of a new culture. Russian hosts are very hospitable, they are likely to take you around the city and show some of their favorite places, teach you some funny Russian words and might even show you how Russians really drink.

Have fun in Moscow! This city is arrogant and haughty, but somehow it manages to get you interested and even attached. Moscow has its own rules and even if you do not fall in love with it at the first sight, it will definitely leave a lasting and strong impression.

Budget Accommodation in Moscow, Russia

• Hostel Camelot – Budget hotel in the center of Moscow.
• Kremlin Hostel – Budget hotel in Moscow city center.
• Suharevka Hotel – Bed & Breakfast in Chisty Prudi district, Moscow.
• Oasis – Budget accommodation in downtown Moscow.
• Napoleon Hostel – Budget hotel in Moscow’s trendy Kitai Gorod district.

Photo of Matryoshka dolls in Moscow , Russia, by Neiljs

Edinburgh is world famous for being the place for tourists to soak up the country’s heritage, but it’s cooler younger brother Glasgow has recently been ahead in terms of bars and pubs. So where can the Scottish capital fight back?

1. The Peartree

If you’re young and cool and like hanging out in a hip part of town with students then head to The Peartree where you’ll be welcomed into the enchanting beer garden with it’s namesake on centre stage – that being the pear tree itself. Get there after dark and you’ll see the tree lit up like a Christmas tree along with the rest of this sparkling garden. It’s worth taking note of the prices here though if you’re on a diet of beans on toast because it’s a wee bit more than surrounding watering holes, but it’s still one to spend all day in the summer at with the paper and a loved one.

2. The Penny Black

If you like whisky instead of milk on your porridge then you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s an early bird in the world of Edinburgh pubs and it’s called The Penny Black. Black might be the colour of your eyes when you leave if you start at that time though as it’s a pretty rowdy boozer that doesn’t win a huge amount of prizes for décor but more than compensates when it comes to friendly and proper Scottish drinking spirits, of all kinds.

3. The Jekyll and Hyde

Some people become different versions of themselves when they’ve had a few drinks, this pub is a different version of most pubs in Edinburgh. There’s a really fun sense of comedy about this place. The staff are all friendly and will be more than happy to talk you through the drinks they have on offer – which range from themed horror cocktails to seven deadly sins shot which will no doubt bring out the Hyde in all of you. The building doesn’t take itself too seriously either. There’s cobwebs everywhere, spooky skeletons propped up at the bar and various potions on the shelves all around…these things all being real in Glasgow by the way. Finally it’s worth taking note of the hilarious toilet door caper. It’s disguised as a bookcase so try not to look that stupid while you hold it in.

4. Whistle Binkies

What’s that we can hear? That’ll be the sound of the latest hip and trendy band playing at Whistle Binkies on South Bridge just near Cowgate. It’s one of the hotspots for live music in Edinburgh and regularly stays open until 3am and 5am during the August Festival – something worth looking into for all of these pubs by the way. Open mic nights are a regular fixture here so if you feel the need to get up and sing a Proclaimers song then you’re probably one of about a thousand to do it that week.

5. Le Monde

The fashionable place to strut ones stuff in Edinburgh is George Street, where the huge old stone buildings are all now banks, designer clothes boutiques, fancy hotels, plush cocktail bars, with Le Monde being one of the best. The drinks are all whizzed up by glamorous bar staff and the food is chic little dishes with more plenty of garnish. The central bar means you’re always being ogled at when you look your best. It’s a great place to go when you’re dressed up and are getting riled up to go for a dance elsewhere.

Top 5 Edinburgh Hotels with a bar or a pub onsite

• The Grassmarket Hotel – Edinburgh Old Town -  Double from £83
• Piries Hotel – Edinburgh Murrayfield district – Double from £79
• Carlton Hotel – Downtown Edinburgh – Double from £154
• Hotel The King James – Edinburgh Princes Street area- Double from £79
• Royal Ettrick Hotel – Edinburgh Morningside district – Double from £87

Photo of Le Monde, Edinburgh, Scotland, by Squeezyboy

As such, nightclubs have sprung like mushrooms and will probably continue to do so when you hear the eventual city plan is to have 20 million visitors a year.

Before we start, it’s important to realize that, like many world cities, Dubai is an expensive place, particularly the night club scene here. Drinks will probably cost about the same as they do in places like London and Paris, although there are often concessions for the ladies. Also it’s important to recognise before it’s too late that Dubai is a primarily Islamic country, with customs and regulations that must be obeyed and adhered to. For example, public drunkenness is a definite no-no which can land you in prison, so you must make sure to get a taxi from the club to the hotel. The drinking age here is 21, and ID must usually be shown.

Copacabana

Named possibly after the 70’s Barry Manilow hit, the Copa Cabbana has become popular among the increasingly large young and trendy crowd in Dubai. Sandy floors and Bamboo Railings give it quite an interesting look unique from many rivalling establishments. The club is also renowned for having fantastic snacks. The entry fee is 50 Dhs (€10) and you must be over 25 to enter in order to keep out those who are too “junior”.

Boudoir

With styling ripped off Parisian Nightclubs, Boudoir throws up a fancy dress code and a couple’s bias, and is definitely one of the most opulent and luxurious nightclubs in Dubai, resplendent with crystal chandeliers and royal red sofas. However, the place is a victim of its own success, as it’s too packed to breathe on some nights here.

Zinc

Located in the Prestigious Crowne Plaza Dubai, Zinc has become one of Dubai’s most popular nightclubs, with an incredibly cool glowing decor, RnB and Hip Hop nights, Famous DJ’s, and Endless variety. Nearly every week something new happens here. Ladies go free many nights.

Kasbar

Located in Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most upmarket beachfront neighbourhoods, and part of the One & Only Royal Mirage Hotel, built by one of South Africa’s most flamboyant millionaires, Sol Kerzner, this bar/club caters to all nationalities, with the DJ keeping the music pumping with English, Spanish, Arabic, and many other tunes to keep everyone happy. Don’t come if you’re expecting to dance the night away though – the crowd mostly consists of relaxed hotel guests soaking in the ambience.

Vu’s Bar

On the 51st floor of one of Dubai’s most recognisable monoliths, the Emirates Towers, Vu’s offers a selection of 200 cocktails to choose from (really). Extremely expensive, it tends to attract a decidedly upmarket crowd. It can also be considered quite a romantic place to take a loved one to enjoy the sunset view of Dubai before getting into the cocktails and chic sophistication of the place.

Top Rated Dubai Hotels on Venere.com

• Hotel Al Khaleej – Double room starting from €38 / $54.3 per night
• Star Metro Deira Hotel - Apartment starting from €76 / $108.6 per night
• Hotel Mayfair – Double room starting from €62 / $88.2 per night

Photo of Burj ar Arab at night, Dubai, UAE, by Lori Greig

In terms of the general feeling towards the gay scene in the city there is a relaxed enough feel to the bars and clubs to welcome any gay or lesbian tourist. The area around Alameda de Hércules has a lively and chilled-out vibe, not so buzzing in the summer months though, but always up for a laugh.

Gay Bars in Seville

Before we go any further then it’s worth listing a few of the openly gay bars in Seville.

• El Barón Rampante, C. Arias Montano 3 – this is technically a gay bar but there’s always quite a mixture of people hanging out here as it’s a cool spot.

• El Bosque Animado, C. Arias Montano 5,

• El Hombre y el Oso, C. Amor de Dios 32 – this one is one of the oldest in the city and has a thing for teddy bears.

• El Paseo, Paseo Cristóbal Colón 2.

• Isbiliyya, Paseo Cristóbal Colón 2 – one of the hottest places on the whole gay-scene. It’s always packed and spills out on to the street with drinking and party-goers. When the music starts up you’ll know about it. A great place for a hot and sweaty night.

• Noveccento, C. Julio César 10,

• Men to Men, C. Trajano 38 – a more in your face type of places with a very wide cliental and some rather secret little hideways where you never quite know what’s going on.

Seville Gay Pride

Topping the bill for the gay scene in Seville has to be the annual Gay Pride on the 28th June each year. Like many others gay prides, Seville doesn’t fall short of the mark when it comes to all out exciting celebrations and partying. Organized by the Lesbian Gay Platform of Seville, called Somos, the day consists of a variety of events, from film screenings, to conferences. But a gay pride wouldn’t be complete without a procession of some kind and Seville doesn’t fall short, even though it’s not been running for very long at all. Kicking off at the Plaza Neuva, the procession makes its way through the city via Los Remedios before finally coming to a halt where the annual Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) is hosted.

Top 3 Seville Hotels Booked by Gay Travelers on Venere.com

• Hotel Rey Alfonso X – 4-star hotel in downtown Seville – Double starting from €64
• Casa Romana Hotel – Boutique hotel in Seville city center – Double starting from €107
• Hotel Vincci La Rábida – 4-star hotel in El Arenal, Seville – Double starting from €64

Photo of Flamenco dancer in Seville, Spain, by Ruth L

The town of Rimini is just about 1 hour south east of Bologna and is easy to access by train or automobile.

Rimini Landmarks

The city of Rimini is the king of beach towns. With one of the biggest lengths of beach in Europe, it is definitely a great place to spend a weekend. This town isn’t just famous for it’s beach it also is home to some very historical monuments. At the entrance to the city you will see the Arch of Augustus as it leads you to the town center, the arch was built in 27 BC. At the opposite side of Rimini’s center you will cross over The Tiberius Bridge, this roman designed bridge over the Marecchia River was commissioned by Emperor Augustus in 14 BC and was finished under the reign of Tiberius in 21 BC. The bridge joins the city center with the more historic downtown of Borgo San Giuliano.

Rimini Food and Restaurants

Rimini was known traditionally as a fishing town, and today you can find many seafood restaurants that still carry on that tradition, especially in the small curving streets of Borgo San Guiliano. One of the first things you need to do when you arrive in Rimini is; of course, eat! Every region has it’s own special dishes and tastes and Emilia Romagna is one of my favorites. With reasonable prices and great portions it is one of the best regions to pull up a seat around a table.

If you don’t have time to tuck into a giant slab of lasagna or a small mountain of tagliatella then you should try Rimini’s own fast food: Cassoni. Cassoni is in the same style as a calzone but with a slightly different assembly. The outside wrap is always the same and is a staple food for Emilia Romagna: piadina. Piadina is a type of tortilla shaped soft bread made with the simple ingredients of salt, flour, lard, and water (or olive oil). When it encloses a mixture of your choice, including herbs, meats, and cheeses (my favorite being the classic tomato and mozzarella combo) it becomes cassoni. This food has all three essentials: it’s cheap, delicious, and easy to take away to the beach. Rimini is filled with Piadinerias (look for the sign “Piade & Cassoni”).

Rimini Beach and Nightlife

The area along the beach is crowded with hotels, giving you a great diversity in prices and sleeping arrangements. At night the beach is a very different place. Bars and clubs open into the streets as thirsty crowds move up and down the coast looking for a drink. A favorite pub of many is the Rose and Crown, a traditional English pub opened in 1964; it is famous for its live music, seaside terrace, and frosty beers. Located across from the beach near Piazza Marvelli (#2 Viale Regina Elena) Rose and Crown is a great place to have a drink and some pub grub. I would recommend the very popular “giraffe,” a long necked two liter personal tap that is transported straight to your table. You won’t have to worry about flagging down a waiter or making pilgrimages to the bar with your handy giraffe tap sitting near you. After a long night of drinking it isn’t unusual to see a few people jumping into the water to freshen back up…

Popular Rimini Hotels on Venere.com:

• Hotel Accademia
• Hotel Diana
• Hotel De Londres

Photo of Rimini Beach, Italy by Grabowski

Like Prague it has become infamous with throngs of beer-guzzling stag parties all intent on sampling the cut-price beer and treating the place as their own. But please don’t be dismayed by this because Tallinn really does have a great deal to offer everyone and is a magical and largely undiscovered city in Eastern Europe .

Tallinn, a wonderful and intriguing blend of old and new

The medieval parts are as extreme as you can get. The Dome Church, or Toomkirick, is the oldest church in Tallinn, dating back to the 13th Century and being at the top of a hill it’s not only very hard to miss but also the best place to look down from and take it the whole panorama of Tallinn.

Tallinn Museums and Palaces

If churches aren’t your thing particularly then don’t worry cause there’s something not too far away for the art lovers out there. The Foreign Art Museum near Kadriorg Park in Kadriorg Palace is guaranteed to take your breath away when you see it. Even before you see some of the beautiful art pieces in the collection, the actual palace itself is a stunningly colourful building that looks like something you’d find in a dolls house. The gardens around it are immaculate also and gorgeous at sunset.

Estonian Food and Tallinn Restaurants

If you are less interested in the more cultural and grown-up things and just fancy getting down to some serious eating then you won’t be disappointed with the dozens of restaurants in Tallinn. Being on the chilly side a lot of the time, the Estonians favour their hearty meals. The traditional Estonian dishes aren’t for the faint-hearted, or vegetarians either come to think of it. Blood sausage is a huge favourite but then fans of black pudding might be finding this a bit too everyday. Try Jellied Pork Tongue then or even Marinated Eel, which for some reason comes out to you served cold. One of the best restaurants to try would be Eesti Maja on Lauteri tänav 1, where you’ll find more familiar and less adventurous dishes too in case you’re worried.

Tallinn Night Spots

For those of you who want to join in with the drinking and the partying but don’t want to end up being swamped in lads shouting football songs, a great bar is Gloria Veinikelder Müürivahe 2, Lower Town. It’s a quiet and romantic little cellar bar with candlelights and a superb range of wines and beers. You can really lose yourself in the secret booths and arches and it’s a perfect place to end a day in the city and feel like you’re really part of the local action.

Where to stay in Tallinn

• Hotel Viru
• Hotel Tähetorni
• Hotel Metropol

Picture of Tallinn, Estonia, at sunset by Jurvestonp>

The Parque das Nacoes is a fine example of this, although the Aquarium there is excellent. The centre of the city is different however, and the very best is reserved for the Bairro Alto.

It must be said that the appeal of the Bairro Alto lies more in its charm than in any glitz or glamour. A survey comparing the area with 5th Avenue in New York or the Champs Elysees in Paris was met with incredulity by some media outlets as people thought that to be in the same league an area would need the same shallow draws which the Bairro Alto does not. Those mocking journalists had clearly never been to the area.

The Bairro Alto can seem schizophrenic as its character totally changes at dusk. During the day peace reigns, locals wander through the quiet streets and the occasional café is all one needs for refreshment. In the evening, however, the entire place changes. Bars and clubs spill out onto the street, world class restaurants with world class service stay open late into the night and strains of Fado drift through the warm air.

In 1998 a spectacular and destructive fire ravaged the Bairro Alto but thankfully for visitors it was rebuilt and lovingly restored. The tangled alleyways and jumble of buildings has a timeless feel to it during the day but at night is much more contemporary. The area is home to a collection of bars dedicated to diverse modern tastes, gay bars and funk clubs rub shoulders with heavy metal and hip hop.

The Bairro Alto is not without its problems. As with many areas of the city visitors are frequently offered soft drugs by dealers on the streets. The local police seem powerless to do anything about them. Graffiti covers many of the walls, in some places it adds character but in most it is just senseless defacement. In the past the area has also been a centre for prostitution but for the most part this moved to other areas after the fire and didn’t return. Street crime such as robbery is mercifully rare, although pickpockets are known to operate in the area.

Many visitors based in other parts of Lisbon head to the Bairro Alto in the evening to take advantage of the bars and restaurants but it would be a shame to miss it during the day. There is a terrace with spectacular views that take in the city as it sinks down to meet the river and the funicular is always fun, especially for kids. The greatest attraction, however, is simply wandering around and relaxing in the ambience of a more peaceful time.

Where to stay in Bairro Alto, Lisbon

• Hotel Bairro Alto
• Belver Principe Real Hotel
• Lisbon Dreams Guesthouse

Picture of graffiti in the Bairro Alto, Lisbon, Portugal, by Ramon Peco

In winter this means the days are short and the nights interminably long. However, in summer it means that there is no darkness and a state of twilight reigns from eleven in the evening until two in the morning, a phenomenon known as the White Nights.

During the White Nights an enormous change comes over St Petersburg. Its taciturn and dour residents become relaxed and charming, a festival atmosphere takes over the city and visitors flock in from around Russia and the rest of the world.

The deliciously soft quality of the midnight sunlight is perfect for enjoying the beauty of St Petersburg’s architecture and many people stroll through the streets until morning. Others prefer to sit in the many parks, usually with some beer, and chat with friends.

In fact, so many of the residents of the city are out socialising at night that St Petersburg begins to have the same lethargic and unhurried air of Paris in the summer, with tourists making up a sizable proportion of the people on the streets.

The White Nights are thought to be the most romantic festival of Russia, and so many couples can be seen walking arm in arm through the night. The city’s tourism authorities are now trying to spread this custom abroad in the hope of bringing in more visitors. It must be said that sharing the beautiful experience is very moving and I would recommend any couple looking for an unusual summer holiday to try experiencing the White Nights.

Visitors should be aware that the city can get so full during the White Nights that it can be difficult to find a hotel in  St Petersburg at the last minute. It is advisable that you book well in advance. The hotel rooms available are also much more expensive during the summer period, this is not unusual but it does mean that the rates for moderate or low standard rooms are much high than they should be.

Independent travel to Russia can be quite difficult because of the need for visas and the fact that most people do not speak English. This can put many first time visitors off. However, these days there are many tour companies specialising in trip to St Petersburg during the White Nights and they will handle everything from flight booking, airport transfers and, of course, booking a hotel.

The White Nights is also a popular time for cruise ships to put in to St Petersburg. If you are planning a Baltic or northern cruise then it is certainly worth investigating if this is possible for you.

A useful tip is to realise that although the strict White Nights period straddles the summer solstice, a similar effect is felt several weeks either side of this. Visitors wishing to avoid the mad tourist crush of the actual solstice and increase their chances of getting a hotel room may wish to bear this in mind.

Romantic Hotels  in St Petersburg

• Alexander House Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Petro Palace
• Hotel Marco Polo Saint Petersburg

Photo of  St Petersburg White Night, Russia, by Incandenzafied

Or simply someone sick of the usual yuppie hangouts and the eurotrash clubbing experience? In that case here is a list of alternative clubs in Rome that may catch your fancy.

1. SUBBACULTCHA- Alien Club/Saponeria

The reigning king of the Roman alternative scene is Subbacultcha, held at the Alien Club on Friday nights (Via Velletri 13, Salario district) during the year, with three separate rooms for three separate alternative tastes (rock, metal, and goth) and at the Saponeria Club on Saturdays (Via degli Argonauti, 20, Ostiense district) in the summer season. It is beyond doubt the biggest, most popular and most worthwhile alternative clubbing experience in Rome, combining live music with DJ sets for all tastes: rock, indie, metal, new wave, 80s, electro, alternative, industrial, and much more. Entrance is 5€.

Top rated hotel in Rome Ostiense district: Hotel Abitart

2. SCREAMADELICA- Circolo degli Artisti

If you’re more of an indie art-rocker a fitting alternative experience is Screamadelica, held in collaboration with Radio Città Futura. It is hosted by Circolo degli Artisti, one of Rome’s most popular live music joints on Via Casilina Vecchia, 42. It also combines live music with DJ sets and while it is geared towards the skinny-jeans/big glasses crowd it plays a variety of genres including new wave and punk. Entrance is 5€.

Accommodation near Via Casilina Vecchia, Rome: Bed and Breakfast Abitazione Pigneto

3. RADIOROCK- Qube

The Qube (Via di Portonaccio, 212) is one of the largest and most important clubs in Rome, and usually hosts a different genre or even club on each of its three floors. On Thursday nights it is dominated by Radiorock, Rome’s premier alternative radio station, creating a fitting ambiance with the ex-factory look of the Qube. In the summer Radiorock moves to the fresher shores of La Spiaggetta, Ostia beach (Lungomare Caio Duilio 34), spinning beats and playing live music 6 days of the week. The DJs of Radiorock also take over after the concerts held for the Rock in Roma festival, at the Capannelle hippodrome, with the likes of Motorhead, Nine Inch Nails and The Killers taking the stage. Entrance to Radiorock’s summer outpost is free.

Top rated hotel in Ostia: Aran Blu Hotel

Photo of  ‘Stick My Car’ exhibition at Circolo degli Artisti, Rome, Italy, by OMINO71 -STICK MY WORLD-

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

London is the first city in Europe to offer the likes of Dickon Savage, Tony Love and Lord Dashwood in the male tournaments of tease.

Working men

Amateurs and professional strippers go boylesque at the Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club for the Male Tournament of Tease with spectacular results. Wannabes are welcome to take part with free coaching from the in-house trainer who promises to help men make ladies scream! There are still a few heats to go and plenty of laughs in store. Tickets are £8, with showtime at 20:30 local time. For more information visit http://www.workersplaytime.net/.

Bearlesque

I kid you not. Portly men with beards are the next big thing on the London burlesque scene. Also performing as The Bear Boys and The Bears, this bearded burlesque troupe can also be seen at KOKO in Camden during Guilty Pleasures on the last Saturday of every month, as well as having starred in the Male Tournament of Tease. A large section of the act were also seen earlier in 2009 at the Tristan Bates Theatre in London in the flesh. Check out http://bearlesque.thegreatstromboli.com/ for up and coming dates.

Madam Jojos

This rum Soho club has a history that dates back to the 1940s, but shows have been brought up-to-date with sultry and saucy burlesque performances from men and women. Finger in the Pie cabaret takes place on the first Sunday of the month inside the red and raunchy interior compered by “acid tongued” drag-queen Myra DuBois. She introduces top city acts such as Chrisalys and Lady Beau Peep as well as burlesque performers Bourgeois and Maurice and magicians Stuart and Maurice.

High-end class

This all-female burlesque club puts the t back in tantalising. Volupte is widely touted as one of the best, provided punters dig deep. For £30 a head you can dine while watching the very best of London’s burlesque scene perform cabarets, or stand for the less advertised spaces by the bar with cocktails £5 a pop. As well as special events, there are late shows - which can prove marginally cheaper – on from 22:00. Barflies should look at Volupte’s calendar at www.volupte-lounge.com/ to get filled in on events at the Club off Norwich Street in London by Chancery Lane on the Central Line.

Have a go

Owing to the rising success of glamorous burlesque, Madame Jojos has become the first club to offer people the chance to get it on with the best of them. You guessed it, 2009 is the first year this Soho club has gone on the look-out for an army for 1940s-themed soirees entitled the London Burlesque Social Club, planned for the first Thursday of every month. Special requests include soldier uniforms, suspenders and bright red lipstick.

Where to stay in Soho, London?

• Sanderson A. Morgans Hotel
• Hotel Rathbone
• Arosfa Hotel

Photo of burlesque performer in Soho, London, by Faster1974