New Year, fireworks in Zurich, Switzerland by Zürich Tourismus

Scintillating Switzerland

With a population of less than 7.5 million, Switzerland borders with Austria, Germany, France, Italy and Lichtenstein. The excellent positioning of the country makes it one of the most easily accessible locations from any corner of the world. Among the most fascinating countries, Switzerland has been a famous tourist destination courtesy of its scintillating snow-covered mountains, dense forests and sparkling lakes. The scenery is perfect postcard material, and one of the main reasons why the country is so popular among tourist groups is skiing. Medieval cathedrals, museums and castles are the ones you can’t afford to miss when on tour. Swiss chocolate and cheese is world renowned, and a trip to the scenic paradise can be finger-licking good.

Fabulous France

Located on the West of Europe, France is one of the most diverse countries that make for a fantastic destination regardless of what you like or dislike. Filled with culture and seeped in history, the country has everything you need for an exhilarating vacation. While the north of France has Paris – the most visited and the largest city in the country, the south boasts of sensational scenery that changes dramatically on your way to the French Alps. Mountain activities and winter sports are in full swing during the season, making Chamonix a household name. Over ten million people visit France each year, and the nation delivers a fabulous time. Champagne hails from France, and the country is also home to some of the most exotic dishes. The nightlife is exuberant, to say the least, and an evening in Paris will certainly stick long in your memory.

Astonishing Austria

Mozart is probably the first thing that pops into your mind when you think of Austria. The country is located in the heart of Europe and boasts of some of the finest works of architecture. Vienna, its capital city is filled with medieval museums, cafes and imperial palaces. Austria is an ideal destination for those who like to soak up nature and relax as it is considered an eco-friendly location. With phenomenal scenery, you can find a large number of lakes, flowers, mountains and fields. The country possesses endemic species and preserves them. The Austrian Alps is the perfect place for those who like to have their share of fun in the snow. Skiing and other mountain activities thrive in this region, and an Austrian vacation promises to serve as a reinvigorating getaway.

Andy Butler is an expert associated with Burger Davis Sotheby’s International Realty, dealers of property available for rent and sale in the French Riviera.

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Palace of Versailles is also an important symbol of the Great French Revolution, when in 1789 the nobility was expelled from there to Paris, and executed by the guillotine.

Beautiful castle is admired mainly for its unique architecture and large surrounding gardens, which are really amazing. Many rulers in other European countries later attempted to imitate the construction of their residences just according to this French chateau; for example, Viennese palace Schönbrun.

During an excursion in the Château de Versailles you definitely do not miss the spectacular tour of the royal apartments and beautifully decorated chapel. The complex has really got a lot of rooms, wings and associated buildings, so if you want to see everything it takes you almost all day.

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Very interesting is a unique Hall of Mirrors, but you should visit also the Museum of History, which shows you all the important events that are associated with this place. I have to say that they are terribly much.

In the gardens you can find many fountains and statues. The best time to visit the gardens is in the summer during the summer musical and water festival Les Grandes Eaux Musicales, when the fountains are turned on and chamber music bands play in the gardens.

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Parc Asterix is based on the stories of Asterix and Obelix – who are famous French comic book heroes (the Gallic warriors). They lived around the year of 50 BC, and fight successfully against Roman legions with the help of a magic potion. Parc Asterix offers more than 30 attractions, especially the large variety of roller coasters and 3 different performances.

Among the favorite characters from comic books and movies you can experience the adventure on a bobsleigh and the turbulent water flow. You will find here also the Dolphinarium, classic Gallic village, and if you will have a good luck, one of the Druid offers you a magic potion.

In the complex there are also sections devoted to ancient Greece, Roman Empire and the Vikings. There is a roller coaster La Trace Du Hourra that transports you to ancient times in a speed of 60 km/h. For those of you who are more adventurous there is a roller coaster Goudurix, where you will be several times upside down. Another interesting fun is a wooden roller coaster Tonnerre de Zeus, which can ride at speeds up to 85 km/h. The track was even named the best wooden roller coaster in Europe.

Parc Asterix is open during the summer season from April to August almost daily from 10:00 to 18:00. You can visit it also throughout the whole year, but at first check the opening calendar at their main website to ensure it is open.

Very close to this park you can enjoy fun also in France’s and Europe’s most visited tourist attraction – Disneyland Paris, which is only approx. 30km far.

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France – Offers the best value for money in Europe. France offers large accommodation resorts, that are situated almost always right on the slope.

Courchevel Ski Resort in Parc national de la Vanoise is one of the best ski resorts in France. It is located in the eastern part of the country, in the region of Rhône-Alpes, in Les Trois Vallées, at an altitude of 1300 – 2740m. Courchevel Ski resort is also the oldest and most luxurious ski resort in Les Trois Vallées. It offers a total of 180 km of slopes of several types. Transport is providing by 25 lifts and 40 ski-tows with a total carrying capacity of 68 350 persons per hour. Ski resort Courchevel is divided into four villages. The lowest one is Courchevel 1300 m, where you can see admire the local architecture. There are houses from the 13th century. Upper one is Courchevel 1550, which offers a nice entry to the slopes. Courchevel 1650 is another historic part with the typical wooden houses of Savoy. The highest part of Courchevel 1850 offers the best access to the lifts. After skiing you can enjoy a swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and bowling.

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Italy – Offers high quality ski slopes and higher quality of Italian accommodation standards. Another positive thing is that there are beautiful mountain sceneries. The disadvantage is that Italians are not consistent, and thus you can often find something that is out of order or goes wrong. You also should start to learn Italian before your trip.

Cortina d’Ampezzo – Olympic slopes with an international atmosphere. In 1956 there were Olympic Winter Games in the resort and became famous also far beyond the borders of Italy. Cortina d’Ampezzo is the village in the Dolomites, surrounded by peaks Tofana (3244 m), Monte Cristallo (3221 m) and Sorapis (3205 m). It is located in the Veneto region, at an altitude of 1224 m.

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Austria – Offers technically the best equipped ski resorts and also the reliability is very high. However the prices are higher, so skiing in Austria can be really expensive.

St. Anton belongs to the exclusive association of the best Alpine area – Best of the Alps. It offers comfortable St Anton hotels, but even more accommodation options in private. Despite the fact that it is becoming a bit busier resort, it has kept the pleasant and welcoming Tyrol atmosphere. The minor disadvantage of St. Anton are parking fees. Although St. Anton offers over 30 modern lifts, there are often queues in the early morning hours.

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Switzerland – here you can be sure to have snow during your skiing vacations. Switzerland offers comfortable accommodation, skiing in the middle and beautiful contrast between the modern and technologically obsolete lifts. Among the most popular ski resorts in Switzerland are Veysonnaz. It’s one of the most prestigious ski areas, situated near the highest point of Mont Fort (3300 m). Another beautiful alpine ski resort is Saas-Fee, which is located at 1 560-3 600 m. The world-famous Jungfrau ski area offers approximately 190 km of slopes and e.g. Crans Montana have beautiful scenery and excellent skiing.

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