Barcelona is a must-do excursion if you are staying in Spain, not only for the architecture, but also for the vibrant culture. Barcelona is the capital of Catalunya and is close to the Costas, so is easy to reach on an organised excursion or by train. If you are a shopaholic, Las Ramblas is the place to head to, but make time for Gaudi’s famous cathedral and also sample some of the genuine tapas round the market area of Gracia. There is also a small beach at Barcelona, so if you are spending a day or so there, take a swimsuit.

Sagrada Familia from inside, Barcelona, Spain by SBA73

Granada

Granada is the capital of the province of Granada and is an essential excursion if you are staying in southern Spain or touring round. Granada is in eastern Andalusia and is home to the Alhambra and the magnificent cathedral. Granada is set among rocky landscapes and the narrow and twisting streets are fascinating to explore. The Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Moorish architecture – it is a wonderful sight illuminated at night against the backdrop of Granada’s hills.

Alhambra, Granada, Andalusia, Spain by Antonio

Gibraltar

Gibraltar is easily reached by car, plane, or boat from Spain and is also across the bay from Africa. Gibraltar has been a British outpost for centuries and played a major role in the Battle of Trafalgar – there is a small cemetery at one end of the high street which is worth a wander round as it contains the graves of naval personnel killed at Trafalgar. The main attraction is duty free shopping – and the Rock of Gibraltar, which you can take a minibus up, although hikers may like to walk: it takes around an hour-and-a-half to reach the summit on foot if you are fit, but watch out for traffic. Along the way are the caves of St Paul and at the top are marvellous views, a Moorish castle, siege tunnels and tons of monkeys, who will cadge food, steal your hat and sunglasses and pose for photos. You can also take tea at the famous Rock hotel in town – much loved by Sir Winston Churchill and his contemporaries.

Gibraltar, Spain by Jacrews7

Toledo

Toledo is an historic fortress city set in a mountain about an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Madrid. It is reached by driving across a narrow entry road perched high above a deep ravine, which is an experience in itself. Toledo is where Spain’s ancient sword manufacturing industry was based, but it also boasts a magnificent cathedral – look up at the roof to see the headgear of the Cathedral’s clergy hanging from the roof as a tribute after they died. There is something quite eerie about Toledo, but its narrow, winding streets are fascinating and it is worthwhile half-day trip if you are within reach of the area.

Alcazar de Toledo, Spain by Janos Korom Dr.

Suffering illness in Spain is more common than you think, with thousands of holidaymakers descending to one place, illness can only spread like wild fire.

Peter Anderson – I love to blog about holidays in Spain Google+

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Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Mgiganteus1

Approach to the Tombs of the Kings

At first sight during my visit there appeared to be very little of interest to be seen, just a craggy outcrop of rocks, as the tombs are almost entirely underground.  It was only as I ventured around the side of the site that the detail of how it had been used became apparent.  It was amazing to think of these tombs being chiseled by hand from the soft limestone, and then completely excavated to form rectangular rooms with about three feet of thick rock above them as a ceiling.

A subterranean adventure

Seven of the eight tombs have been excavated, and I found them to be extremely well preserved.  Their overall design is quite unusual for this part of the world since, although they date from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, their architecture tends more towards Macedonian in style.  Some of the tombs were constructed to look like dwelling places for the living rather than burial sites for the dead.  It is possible to see fragments of the original frescoes, and the atriums (central courtyards) are largely intact, so that the overall structure – complete with porticos and columns – is clearly evident.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Romeparis

Getting around the site

To gain access to the underground tombs there are stone staircases leading downwards, although tomb number three has an additional wooden staircase that was installed during the excavation, making it easier to negotiate.  Great care is needed when descending into any of the tombs, as the stone steps are quite uneven.  The best time to visit is early morning before the heat of the day builds up, and it is sensible to wear comfortable shoes and take a hat and bottled water, as the site is quite large.  Touring the whole of it can easily take a minimum of two hours.

Tombs of the Kings, Paphos, Cyprus by Romeparis

Getting to the Tombs of the Kings

There is a good bus service from Paphos city center to the Tombs of the Kings, and it is worth taking the bus, as the neighborhood around the site is a little shabby.  Admission prices are very reasonable and, along with cheap flight deals available to Paphos International Airport, I found a vacation in Cyprus to be both affordable and rewarding.  Besides the historic Tombs of the Kings, there are many other visitor attractions, including Aphrodite’s Rock, Coral Bay, the Adonis Baths Waterfalls and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park.

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Val Camonica stretches for almost 90 kilometres, and scattered over hundreds of locations on both sides of this expansive valley are the world’s greatest collections of prehistoric rock drawings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives us artistic insight into the culture, pastimes, and interests of the ancient world.

Val Camonica valley, Lombardy, Italy by Bernat Erasmus

The Great Gallery

The Valley lays claim to the most extensive collection of prehistoric petroglyphs on Earth; a rather impressive trophy for a rural region in the Alpine mountains of Italy!

It would seem that the inhabitants of this particular region, for reasons unknown, were intent on documentation and expression through the rock-based art-form. It is recorded that over 140,000 symbols and figures are carved into the Valley’s rocks. This staggering number is thought to have been achieved over a period of 8,000 years, and although UNESCO has formally recognised the previous number of incisions, it is thought that new discoveries raise the total somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000

Subjects of Superstition

The artistic works depict many different themes and subjects, providing an invaluable insight into the thoughts and minds of our creative ancestors.

The subjects of the rock drawings are diverse, and themes give us a glimpse into early agriculture, maps and constellations, as well as mysticism, war and magic! These early drawings are an unprecedented documentation of beliefs, traditions and triumphs.

In some cases, the figures and drawings seem to have been placed with no obvious order or logic, while others have a definite connection.

Visitors can see the showcase of impressive scenes of vibrant dances, historical hunts, ferocious fights, and mystical masterpieces that depict religious rites and ceremonies. These drawings seem to commemorate the culture of times past, however some of them are rather bizarre. The stranger drawings in this vast collection, through archaeologists’ analysis, have been described as less of documentation, and more an expression of ideas and early human thoughts.

Rock drawings, Val Camonica valley, Lombardy, Italy by Bernat Erasmus

A Piece of History

The history of the petroglyphs spans an extra-ordinate amount of time, and many different periods are documented. Making such a discovery would be any historian or archaeologist’s dream!

The first incisions give us a snapshot of a time long before even the Iron Age. While they give us extraordinary pictures of prehistoric customs, the drawings continue throughout history, and even into the modern day! It is thought the custom of rock drawing in this region carried over from generation to generation, even through the Roman and Medieval periods. Interestingly, most of the drawings have been created using similar techniques, even though the tools must have changed somewhat over the timeline.

One amazing scene shows one of the valley’s tribes initiating new females, at a time when they began to meet new people. Their isolation seems to end around 1000 BC, and it was at this time that their art was at its peak. Many battle scenes were carved during this period, and although the tribe was introduced to other members of society – their introductions appear to be rarely friendly!

Conclusion

If any one location has earned its place as a site worthy of world heritage, it is this one.

There is an unparalleled span of ancient and intricate artwork found throughout the rock drawings in Val Camonica. Thousands of people from the world over have already enjoyed this once in a lifetime experience, and have witnessed the site for themselves. Why not count yourself as one of them, and visit the amazing site today?

Author Bio:

An article by Matt Scott who loves writing UNESCO travel articles and anything Italian. If you need to hire a rental car for your trip to the Val Camonica region visit the comparecarrentals.co.uk car rental comparison search engine.

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Alhambra, Spain

This “red fortress” in Granada, Spain is a breathtaking display of Islamic architecture. The Alhambra was built in the 10^th century as a home for the Muslim rulers in Spain. The palace was designed with central courtyards between each building, with gardenlife and handsome pools. The park outside the walls of this UNESCO World Heritage site are equally enjoyable to visit; here grows wildflowers, elm trees, roses, and more.

Garden in Alhambra, Spain by Sharon Mollerus

The Alnwick Garden, England, UK

The garden belonging to Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England will be loved by the stodgiest of grandmothers and their dirt-loving grandsons. The Alnwick Garden manages this diverse appeal through its different themed gardens. A rose garden, an ornamental garden, and a cherry orchard are just a few of the more traditional and absolutely gorgeous stops. Non-traditionalists will love the enormous tree house and the poison garden, which features plants like opium poppy.

Alnwick Garden, England, UK by Graeme

Monet’s Garden, France

Lovers of art flock alongside garden adorers to see Monet’s Garden. Located in Giverny, France, the home and garden once owned by Claude Monet are now a museum open to the public. While he was no horticulturist, Monet created these gardens exactly how he wanted them to look – and they are quite beautiful. His gardens are the focus of many of his most famous paintings and the locations are still recognizable today.

Monet’s Garden, France by Amanda Slater

Drummond Garden, Scotland, UK

In a country famous for its green space, the Drummond Castle Gardens do not disappoint. The courtyard of Drummond Castle looks down upon one of the finest formal gardens in the country. The space flows into the natural countryside and has an extensive display of topiary, fountains, trees, and flowers. There is also an interesting kitchen garden and greenhouse.

Drummond Castle and Gardens, Scotland, UK by Roy Douglas

Nyphemburg Palace Park, Munich, Germany

The gardens of Nyphemburg Palace are referred to as the Park – and for good reason. This massive expanse of green space has the basic features of a Baroque garden style and, for that reason, still resembles a stereotypical castle garden from the 18^th century. The Grand Parterre is the key feature of the Park and is divided with a long, wide path through its center. Looking down this axis, visitors are surrounded by regularly positioned stone statues and perfectly cultivated grass.

Gardens of Nymphenburg Palace, Germany by Florian Adler

Terry Carter writes about gardening and landscaping for Grandview Landscaping and Masonry.

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Nafplio, Greece by Jeanhousen

What to See

• Mystras. This once majestic fortress town, after experiencing a spill from the Taÿgetos Mountains is now home of Byzantine palaces and churches in ruins. Today, this Unesco World Heritage Site deemed as one of the most important sites in the region.
• Nafplio. This is a beautiful port that is made of Venetian houses and narrow streets. It is also home of the Alexandros Soutzos Museum which features 1821 Greek War of Independence exhibits.
• Stemnitsa. This village is the starting site for the walks to the Lousios Gorge. Walks of various lengths start in this place, ranging from hour-long to day-long.
• Epidavros. This region is very popular for its miraculous cures. It also hosts theater and drama performances during July and August.
• Olympia. This region is home to a number of museums such as the Archaeological Museum of Olympia which features a statue of Hermes made by Praxiteles.

Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, Greece by Fingalo

Where to Eat and Drink

• I Stemnitsa. This is a tavern open year-round in the village. Its tables lie under big umbrellas with a tasty Greek menu to boot. Their dishes are made up of generous and quality meat cuts.
• Restaurant Elysse. Its hearty cooking is what makes this a favorite in Sparta. It menu has Lakonian specialties, right from the south-central region. One fine example is the bardouniotiko, a chicken recipe with feta and onions.
• Omorfi Poli. This restaurant serves traditional dishes with their own original twists. They also have wine selections produced locally.
• Fishermen’s Tavern. Located in a seaside village, this restaurant is run by a family of fishermen, serving dishes featuring whatever was caught for the day. The most common ones include mullet, beam, and sardines.
• Hotel Kyrimai. Situated in the Gerolimenas harbor, this restaurant has a tasty menu. One of their highlights is the shrimp stuffed zucchini with saffron.

Where to Sleep

• Camping Diana. Right in the center of Olympia, this hotel is open all year and features a mini market, pool, friendly staff, and internet access.
• Hotel Marianna. This is one of Nafplio’s finest. Its rooms have terraces with traditional bedsteads and stone walls. It provides its guests with hearty breakfast meals.
• Mpelleiko. This is a stone house that dates back in the 17th century. Its rooms feature original Greek furnishings with large fireplaces. They also serve breakfast made from homemade produce.
• Ippoliti. This is a hotel that offers luxurious accommodations. The building features a grand staircase that lead to beautifully decorated rooms. It also has a gym and a small pool.
• Patra’s Primarolia Art Hotel. This hotel offers rooms with varying themes and styles, from baroque to minimalist. It also has an in-house sauna.

Resource Box:

Amy C. loves travelling to various cities and regions, particularly in the areas of the Mediterranean and the Pacific. She also performs office administration and blogging activities of World Climate, who also offers agent listing online. Want to know where she will take you next? Stay tuned for her next post.

The post Mini Guide to the Peloponnese, Greece appeared first on Europe Explored.

Neonian Baptistery, Ravenna, Italy by Paul Baker

Individual or Packaged Tour: Your Choice

The choice of exploring art museums in Italy on your own or joining a group is left unto the choice of the traveler. However, it is more educational if you will travel with a licensed expert tour guide. At times, gazing upon these masterpieces is enough to trigger dozens of questions on your mind, which can easily be answered by these learned tour guides of the region. They have studied these artworks at depth and they are very much familiar with its history and symbolism.

Top Italy Art Tours from the Experts

These are some of the art tours you would definitely appreciate and enjoy during your stay in Italy.

Ravenna Mosaics

The area became the seat of power during the Roman Empire in the 5^th Century and houses an impressive collection of Christian mosaics. It is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region, which includes the Neonian Baptistery, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Arian Baptistery, Church of San Vitale, Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, and Bassilica of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo that are all constructed during the 5^th and 6^th century. Spending Euros on your tour guide will not be waste because he or she will be of great help to explain the Christian iconography highlighting a wonderful blend of Graeco-Roman tradition in Italy.

Uffizi Gallery

After indulging yourself at the Ravenna Mosaics, you will be pleased to continue your tour in Florence at the Uffizi Gallery. It may be hard to buy tickets in this museum because of the extreme popularity of the place thanks to works of Michelangelo, Piero della Francesca, Raphael, Giotto, Caravaggio, and Botticelli. Savor each moment you are allowed to gaze at these wonderful work of arts, which is open to the public Tuesdays until Sundays from 8:15 am until 6:50 in the evening. However, it will not be accessible during holidays like New Year, Christmas, and May 1. To guarantee tickets for entrance, make early online reservations or book a tour package with reliable sites for a more convenient art appreciation tour in Italy.

St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, Italy / Photo by admin

Architecture and Monuments

The architecture of the basilicas, cathedrals, and other monuments in itself are considered remnants of the glorious history left by the Italian Renaissance. You are free to visit the Vatican and gaze at the artistry hosted by these living museum. You will be in awe as you enter St. Peter’s Basilica, which was constructed by prominent artists like Michelangelo, the designer of the enormous dome and Carlo Maderno, the person responsible for the magnificent façade of the cathedral. Unfortunately, almost all tickets for entrance to the museum has been reserved, which means the only way to see it is through licensed tour agencies operating in Italy.

There is no argument with a statement that tour of Italy is an expensive one. However, for lovers of the art, culture, and tradition. It is a price worth spending because the experience is priceless.

About the Author:

Shaiya Ong is a freelance writer for Rome Airport, a friendly guide for those wishing to save on their travel experience in Italy.

The post Reminiscing the Glory of the Renaissance in Italy appeared first on Europe Explored.

This country is the perfect spot for those who want to just relax; after all traveling should be stress free. If you are planning to visit Cyprus anytime soon, here are the top five tourist destinations that you should include in your itinerary:

1. Ayia Napa

What was once a small and quiet fishing village with a few residents is now considered as one of the world’s top destinations for parties and clubbing; this is Ayia Napa. Located in the south eastern part of Cyprus, Ayia Napa takes pride of its pristine beaches such as the Nissi Beach. Tourists can enjoy the day out in the sun, take a dip in the warm water and do some water sports adventure. After a tiring day, you can head out to the club district where you can find rows of restaurants, bars and clubs. This is certainly the best way to end a perfect day.

Ayia Napa, Cyprus by Vitaly Lischenko (Vlish)

2. Larnaka

Larnaka is one of the country’s oldest cities. The best ways to enjoy its beauty is by walking its streets and learn about their history. So make sure to wear some comfy shoes because the tour will involve a lot of walking.

3. Paphos

Situated at the southwestern part of Cyprus, Paphos a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must see destination for travelers. In here you’ll find historical treasures and archaeological artifacts. Paphos is also very popular because it is considered to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess, Aphrodite. While you’re there, don’t forget to visit the Tomb of the Kings, the ruins of an ancient Roman Agora and the Archaeological Museum.

4. Limassol

Home of the one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean, the Port of Limassol is an important aspect in Cyprus’ trade industry. But there are other places to must see destinations in the city such as the Limassol Theater and Kourion. Travel during the month of February to witness the Carnival Festival or take part in the Wine Festival held every September.

Limassol old town, Cyprus by Tech bro

5. Aglandjia

Aglandjia is another haven for history buffs. This small town is rich with age-old structures, churches and buildings. Enjoy the old city vibe while walking the streets or visiting one of its top destination, the Agiou Georgiou.

Cyprus has a lot to offer to all types of travelers be it a nature lover, a sun worshipper or a history geek.

About the Author: Mia is a content writer for sabahguide.com. She hopes to impart information to reads about sabah tourism.

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Sylt, Germany

Sylt is located on one of the most northern tips ofGermany, on its border withDenmark(perhaps an opportunity to visitDenmarktoo). It has 40km of beautiful sandy beaches and has fantastic surfing opportunities from the north coast side of the island. There are also some amazing mud flats to explore and stroll along. In the summer months they also have Royal Polo matches, the surfing world cup and four fantastic golf clubs to try. This island will make you feel like you are on a romantic movie set, with its brooding coastline and wildflower banks.

Sylt, Germany by Randolf Rautenberg

Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava is only a 1 hour train ride from Vienna, located in the west of the country. There is bustling city nightlife with drinks from around €3 each, visit fantastic Bakchus wine restaurant for a lovely evening meal and complementing wine to have with each course in an amazing cave-like setting.

Parma, Italy

Parma is located in the north of the country right at the top of the ‘boot’ of Italy. It is particularly famous for its prosciutto (Parma ham), cheese and beautiful architecture.  This is including citadels, churches, palaces and cathedrals.

And some tips outside of EU:

Gjirokastra, Albania

This incredible Albanian city is located in the south of the country near to its border with Greece. Since 2005 it has been named a UNESCO world heritage site, this is due to its links to the communist era past and the historic points of interest. These include the Bektashi tomb which contains the remains of two Bektashi Babas, religious men from an Islamic order founded in the 13^th century by Persian’s. You can experience so much more on holiday by visiting this amazing Albanian City.

Reykjavik, Iceland by Hannah Smith

Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavik is located in the south west of the Northern European country, it is famous for its hot spring saunas and this is an amazing way to relax and rejuvenate in the natural way. A fantastic idea for a once in a lifetime experience is to take a helicopter ride from Reykjavík and view the stunning glaciers, glacial lagoons, burning lava fields and volcanoes! If you would prefer to stay on the ground or sea, try whale watching, with over 20 species of whale and dolphins available to see in Icelandic waters it is a must-see excursion.  How to get to Iceland is easy, you can actually cruise to Reykjavík from Southampton giving an excellent opportunity to see more of the North Sea area.

The post Top 5 under the radar European Cities appeared first on Europe Explored.

Charles bridge, Prague, The Czech Republic / Photo by admin

One way in which one can live in Prague and earn money, is through becoming a TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) teacher. Anyone can become a TEFL teacher, as long as they can speak English and have completed a TEFL course. There are various TEFL job locations throughout the country, and many in Prague, the capital city. Castles and towers galore, Prague is a truly beautiful place and one of the most highly preserved medieval destinations in Europe. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site, but despite the rich historic influence there is a deeply modern and cosmopolitan feel, attracting tourists and travellers both young and old. There are plenty of other TEFL locations however, for example one popular area is Liberec – the once ‘Second city of Bohemia’ – which is nestled in the Jizera mountains.

Summer can be very hot, and winter can be very cold – you get the best of both worlds. For those who love winter pursuits, high levels of snowfalls in mountain areas means there is no shortage of outdoor activities such as skiing. Summer is perfect for hiking and exploring the many beautiful regions that the country has to offer. There are hundreds of famous sights to visit year-round, and plenty of potential tours and trips to keep you busy. As a TEFL teacher, there are varying contract durations with varying wage rates and various benefits. You could be teaching children in a public or private language school, or find a position teaching adults in a business or university context. Employers will support and guide you throughout the experience too, meaning you can really ease in to your position as an English teacher.

The Czech people are friendly and welcoming, and very eager to learn English, so as a TEFL teacher you will be greatly received. After becoming TEFL qualified you will have a valuable commodity that is in high demand across the globe – the ability to teach English. This allows you not only the opportunity to experience the world and its many cultures in the most cost-effective way, but to make a real difference to those you are teaching, providing them with a skill that they can carry with them in to future endeavours.

For more information about TEFL courses and the hundreds of TEFL jobs available worldwide, visit: https://teflengland.co.uk/.

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From the fabulous Fountains Abbey in the north of the county to the mysterious Kirkstall Abbey in the west and Beverley Minster in the east – strangely there is no South Riding – the heritage of centuries survives here in all its glory, nestling amongst amazing scenery famed for its wonderful walking country.

Fountains Abbey by Joccay

World Heritage Site

The area around Fountains Abbey has been designated a UNESCO world heritage site, such is its beauty.

If the 12th century Cistercian Abbey itself isn’t enough, there’s the somewhat spooky Serpentine Tunnel, the Temple of Fame in the water gardens, and the Fountains Mill, which until the 1920s was a going concern and which now houses an interactive exhibition where visitors can have a go at grinding their own corn.

Rievaulx Abbey in the north of the country was the first abbey for the Cistercian monks in the north of England.

At its peak, Rievaulx housed 150 monks and another 500 lay brethren, but the Great Plague wiped out many, and by the time of the dissolution of the monasteries only 23 remained.

The new owner, the Earl of Rutland, destroyed much of the architecture, but what remains of the church, refectory and chapter house still makes a spectacular sight.

Kirkstall Abbey lies in the West Riding, just outside Leeds.

Set in stunning parkland along the banks of the River Aire, Kirkstall is an early example of monastic life, and today is one of the best preserved abbeys in the whole country.

Mount Grace Priory in the north is another of Yorkshire’s well-preserved pieces of ecclesiastic architecture, and is a prime example of a Carthusian monastery where the monks spent their time as virtual hermits – the foundations of 23 cells can still be seen and one has been reconstructed to show how the inhabitants might have lived in the 14th century.

Most Beautiful Building in Yorkshire

Beverley Minster in the east was originally founded as a monastery well over a thousand years ago, and the church that remains today dates from the 13th and 14th centuries.

Rich in sculptures and carvings as well as history, Beverley is a cathedral in every aspect – except in status. Yorkshire historian and author J.E. Morris described it nearly 100 years ago as “the most beautiful building in Yorkshire.”

The spectacular ruins of Whitby Abbey in the North Riding were used as a backdrop for parts of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

This is one of the most atmospheric ruins anywhere, overlooking the brooding North Sea above the town.

Whitby Abbey by Mrs Logic

Nicki Williams writes for Gear-Zone, specialists in outdoor clothing and walking footwear, where you’ll find all the top brands including Rab, The North Face, Berghaus, Scarpa, Merrell and Brasher.

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