Krakow, Poland by Klearchos Kapoutsis

Once the capital city during Poland’s Golden Age, Krakow could be one of the top most beautiful cities in Europe. It is Poland’s second largest city, with a population of around 700,000. It is also one of Poland’s oldest cities, with archaelogical remains showing inhabitation dating back to 20,000 B.C.E. By the year 1000 AD, it had grown to an immensely important, wealthy, and large trade center for Slavonic Europe.

Wawel Castle

One of Krakow’s major tourist destinations, the sprawling Wawel Castle, was built during the 13th century under threat of continued attacks from Mongol and Tatar forces. Thee 16th century found Krakow as a center for strong developments in science and arts – this led to Krakow’s golden age, another period of wealth and growth. Throughout history it had its ups and downs, but World War II was the largest most recent threat to its long-standing history. While much of Poland was destroyed as a main target of the enemy during WWII, much of Krakow was left intact from invading forces and aerial attacks (unlike Warsaw). This contributes to its historical tourism.

Located in southern region of Poland, only a couple of hours from the Tatra Mountains, Krakow is an excellent base from which to explore this beautiful region. Public transportation in the form of electric trams, buses, shuttles, and trains make getting around incredibly painless. Exploring on foot is also another great way to get around, as much of Krakow’s main tourist points are located around the Old Town Center. There is also a municipal bike rental for very affordable rates.

Must-see attractions within the city include the Wawel Castle, which offers a variety of touring options – the whole compound, or separate buildings such as the cathedral, galleries, or main castle grounds. Nearby, the historic Old Town Center is filled with museums, cathedrals, galleries, as well as restaurants, cafes, and bars. Historical buffs will enjoy the Museum of Archaelogy, which has many exhibits showing the fascinating history of the area, as well as contains the world’s only known representation of Swiatowit, the ancient and mysterious Slavic diety.

Wawel Castle, Krakow, Poland by fraumrau

The Zoological Museum

The Zoological Museum of the Jagiellonian University is the oldest zoological museum in Poland, and is located in a beautiful historic building, with exhibits located in cellars hewn into the rock. The Rynek Glowny (Main Town Square) contains an historic trading hall, called Sukiennice (Cloth Hall), from which many locally made Polish souvenirs can be purchased. The lovely Town Hall Tower gives a great view of the city when you climb to many stairs the top.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

There are also amazing attractions outside of the city. An absolute must-see is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, about a 20 minute bus ride from the city center. This is the oldest and longest-running salt mine in the world, having had a continuous mining operation for over 700 years. Visiting the mine requires registration as part of a guided tour, which has tour guides in all major languages. The tour starts with a long descent down 30 stories of stairs, followed by about a 2 mile walk through the underground tunnels, visiting not only salt operations, but fascinating pieces of history of the people who lived and worked here over the centuries.

There is an incredible cathedral in the mine, at a depth of about 1,000 feet below ground, and which is carved entirely out of salt – the floor tiles, chandeliers, wall frescoes, and pulpit were all hand carved from the gigantic salt deposit. Some 60 km from Krakow lies another popular destination – Auschwitz-Birkenau, the infamous concentration and extermination camp used by Nazis during World War II. Words cannot describe the conditions the prisoners endured, but visitors get an idea of it from the numerous exhibits containing personal effects of prisoners, as well as piles of shoes, prosthetics, shaved hair, etc. While incredibly saddening, this site is a must-see.

Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland by Adam Kumiszcza

Enough History and Culture

Krakow is the top tourist city in Poland, for good reason. There is enough history and culture to draw in tourists and keep them busy for weeks at a time. Any time of year is great to visit, however the winter season has less tourists. Winter also allows skiing buffs the chance to take the 2 hour ride south to the charming town of Zakopane, the regions skiing mecca. For a different, memorable trip to Europe, consider Krakow and you won’t be disappointed.

This article was written by Kevin Caldwell who enjoys traveling and experiencing different cultures. He also built www.bricktownokchotels.com to help travelers find hotels near Bricktown when they are traveling in Oklahoma.

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Hemsby Daytime, England, UK by Graeme Dawes

In the 1940′s anti-tank blocks were built on the beach as part of a coastal defence plan from World War II. The remains of these blocks are still visible today. Large sand dunes stretch for miles and serve as a natural barrier between the sea and the village. Clean, soft sandy beaches that line the coast serve as a natural playground for children and adults alike.

Along the beach, Beach Road is a hot spot for lots of food and lots of fun. There are Bingo games, a variety of clubs, golf, fun fair, arcades, and visitors can dance the night away in a high energy, fun-filled disco club. A popular beach cafe serves food throughout the season.

The village has plenty of quaint shops for those who love to shop and find one-of-a kind gifts. Within the village is a church named St Mary the Virgin Church which was built in the 12th century. A few other attractions are the Scroby Sands wind farm and the Blood Hill wind farm which are near the village.

For those that love a little Rock-n-Roll, there is the Rock’n'Roll weekender that features music from the 1950′s. Other festivities include the Longshore Herring Festival which celebrates the significant fishing traditions. Guests watch a parade and listen to live music as they eat BBQ’d herrings on the beach.

An important service to Hemsby is the volunteer organization known as Hemsby Lifeboat. This organization relies on fund raisers and public donations to operate since it is not owned and operated by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. Their job is to rescue boats and people who are in distress. Every year, Hemsby Lifeboat holds a fundraiser offering lots of booths and stalls.

If you want to find out further details about the busy village of Hemsby in Norfolk please Click Here to visit the Travel and Accommodation Guide for the area.
https://www.yarmouthnorfolk.co.uk/hemsby/

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If, however, you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, maybe you could consider one of our more off-beat destinations for your next French trip. Treat yourself to a stay in a French Villa while you are at it for the height of luxury.

1. The peculiar Palais Ideal

Hauterives, a tiny village in the Rhone-Alps province of France is, for the most part, unremarkable. The one thing for which it is famous is the Palais Ideal, a folly designed and built by a single man – postman Ferdinand Cheval – in the late 19th and early 20th century.

Palais idéal, Hauterives, France by Ankopedia

The Palais draws on a range of styles, particularly that of Hindu temples, and took 33 years to complete. Cheval himself rests in the complex in a grand mausoleum.

2. The Machines of the Isle of Nantes

Marauding around the city of Nantes are giant mechanical creations, devised by two French artists in the warehouses of the former shipyards who were previously based there. Inspired by the imaginary worlds of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci, a huge mechanical elephant was the first to be unveiled in the park and carries up to 49 passengers for a 45 minute walk around the site.

Later in 2012 the second exhibit, the Machine Worlds Carousel, will be opened with three levels showing 35 moving mechanical animals. In 2014 a third exhibit, The Heron Tree, will join the first two.

3. Ardeche region

With the ever-popular Normandy region and oft-visited Riviera, the inland regions of France are frequently overlooked. The Ardeche, in the Rhone-Alps area of the country, is rich with history from the prehistoric cave paintings at Chauvet Pont d’Arc through to more modern scientific pioneers of locomotives in Lyon.

If you have the chance, check out the Romanesque churches around Niègles and Rochecolombe dating back to the 10th century.

4. The Green Flash at sunset in St-Jean de Luz

Thought to be an optical illusion brought about by the refraction of light and the curvature of the earth at that precise point, in the last moments of sunset viewed from St-Jean de Luz a green ray seems to shoot out of the sun.

Located on the Basque coast amongst some of the finest fishing ports on the Riviera, why not check out one of the excellent fish restaurants while awaiting sunset?

5. The Midi-Pyrénées region

Home of the world-famous Roquefort cheese,the Midi-Pyrenees region has a host of hidden gems to offer the intrepid traveler. In particular the Cambalou caves, where the Roquefort cheeses are aged, has a great visitor centre that explains the process of making and maturing the legendary cheese.

6. Parisian Catacombs

Little do the majority of Paris’ visitors realize that beneath their feet lie the bones of six million people in the remains of the city’s former stone mines. The catacombs offer a fascinating insight into Parisian life through one of the most important things in life – the way we treat the dead.

7. Waterways of France

Often thought of as the preserve of the British, canal barge holidays are popular in France and there are many waterways to choose from. With over 8,000km of canals and rivers to cruise, the east and west of the country are crisscrossed with beautiful routes on which to take a relaxing boating holiday.

8. Great Dune of Pyla

In La Teste-de-Buch, 60 km from Bordeaux, lies the Pyla dune. The tallest sand dune in Europe, the bank abuts the Atlantic Ocean and rises to 107m above sea level.

The Great Dune of Pyla, France by Larrousiney

The dune is a beautiful place to walk, but is also popular for a number of other sports. The strong gusts off the Atlantic make it an ideal place for paragliding, while others use the steep slopes for sand boarding – a variant of snowboarding that can be enjoyed all year round.

Conclusion

Whether you want a peaceful holiday or to explore and find new experiences, there are plenty of destinations off the beaten track that can open up a new world on your doorstep.

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1. Calais Town Hall

The Town Hall is located in the centre of Calais is the most-impressive attraction this coastal town has to offer. It has a fantastic design and boasts an elegant clock tower which can be seen from many parts across town, including the Jacquard Bridge as you cross over. In the elegant front garden, artwork is on display throughout the year.

2. Parc Richelieu

A short walk from the Town Hall lies Parc Richelieu, over the Jacquard Bridge. A small park but one that is a perfect setting for a short rest or relaxation period during your walking tour on a nice, hot summer’s day. At the front of the entrance of the park is a War Memorial statue and 5 French flags flying.

3. War Museum

The War Museum in Calais is situated in the Parc Saint Pierre; opposite the Town Hall. This museum offers insights into World War II. For a €6 entrance, there are 20 rooms inside displaying photographs and objects depicting the war, including a series of interesting, interactive displays.

4. Calais Lighthouse

A short walk from Calais’ ferry terminal stands the large Calais Lighthouse. Viewable from the ferry terminal, Fort Risban and other parts of town, the Lighthouse has 271 steps to climb after paying the €2.50 entrance fee. From the top you get a great view over the town and Channel.

5. Fort Risban

After walking from the ferry terminal and past the Lighthouse, you reach Fort Risban after passing the Bassin du Paradis. There isn’t a great deal that remains of the fort that came under siege from Edward III of England’s army back in 1346, but this historic part of Calais is well worth a visit.

6. Monuments

Making up part of Calais’ history are the several monuments and statues located around town. These include Rodin’s bronze masterpiece of the Six Burghers of Calais outside the front of the Town Hall, a Remembrance Monument opposite, monuments commemorating Airman Gilbert Brazy and the Pluviose Monument both located nearby Fort Risban, a column dedicated to S. M. Louis XVIII on the main street walking past the Bassin du Paradis, a War Memorial at the entrance of Parc Richelieu and even a statue dedicated to former mayor, Leon Vincent, amongst others.

7. Fine Arts and Lace Museum

Works from Rodin, including an insight into his famous Six Burghers of Calais monument evolved can be found inside the Fine Arts and Lace Museum which is located opposite Parc Richelieu. Other works inside include Pablo Picasso and Dubuffet and can be viewed from €3 at the door.

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For those with a passion for architecture, there is no better day trip from Amsterdam than a trip to Rotterdam. After the city was flattened during World War II, they have worked to rebuild it into a modern mastery of architecture with a wide variety of building structures. Rotterdam houses Europe’s largest port. It is known for its large number of summer festivals and events, including cultural festivals and impressive sporting events such as the Rotterdam Open Judo Championship and the Dutch Open Badminton Championships.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands by Dietmut Teijgeman-Hansen

2. The Hague

Head out to The Hague for history, museums, and judicial courts. Although The Hague is not the capital of the Netherlands, it has the seat for the Dutch government and parliament and is Queen Beatrix’s residence. There are a variety of palaces, museums, and narrow streets to explore. The Hague does not have Amsterdam’s excitement but instead offers expansive coastline and green space as well as quaint shopping.

3. Haarlem

For a smaller, more quaint version of Amsterdam, make your way to Haarlem for the day.. It is known for having one of the most impressive cathedrals in the Netherlands. Haarlem offers culture, historical architecture, and the internationally famous Dutch bulb fields, giving it the nickname the City of Flowers. While you are there, take a small detour to Zandvoort, which has the best beaches and coastal dunes that the Netherlands has to offer.

4. Utrecht

This university town with a charming medieval city center is another great place to visit.  Utrecht is famous for its numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants and one of a kind double-tiered canals. Explore museums, boutique shops, modern architecture, and museums. There are eleven museums in Utrecht that offer a wide range of collections. If you are visiting on a Sunday, take part in their Cultural Sundays with different events and festivals every month. The city is small enough that you can take in everything on foot.

Utrecht, The Netherlands by CeBepuH

5. Bruges, Belgium

Head out of the Netherlands for a day to the neighboring Bruges, Belgium for history, lace factories, churches, Begijnhof, and exquisite shopping. Take a tour and sample the beer at the De Halve Maan brewery, which is known for its traditional Brugse Zot. Dating back to 1546, it is made from hops, malt, and yeast. Their guided tour takes you through the history of the brewery and their production process. Bruges a wide variety of museums that include collections classic fine arts, Flemish primitives, archaeological excavations, furniture, silverware, folklore, contemporary art, and more. There is something here for everyone. Finally, while you’re in Bruges, you can’t forget to pick up some famous Belgian chocolate.

When visiting The Netherlands, why not check out the range of short term apartment rentals available in the main cities. There are a number of Worldwide Accom apartments in Amsterdam for rent to suit any budget.

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Horse carriage driving at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2011 / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by tailsandfur

It is Queen Elizabeth´s Diamond anniversary in 2012, and the Royal Windsor Horse Show is planned to be the biggest in its 65 year history. Over 3000 horses and ponies taking part in over 170 classes have registered for this year´s event and visitors will be treated to a feast of spectacular performances including show jumping, tent pegging, and pony club mounted games. The Royal Windsor Horse Show is the only annual event that allows guests access to the private grounds of one of the Queen´s spectacular residencies and visitors also get the opportunity to see her majesty´s horses on show as well.

A brief history of the Royal Windsor Horse Show

The first Royal Windsor Horse Show was hosted during the height of World War II in 1943 as part of a national campaign to raise funds for RAF aircraft. The event was called “Wings for Victory,” and raised a staggering £400,000 which went towards the manufacturing of 78 Typhoon aircraft. The original show was organized by count Robert Orssich and Geoffrey Cross and was named the Windsor Horse and Dog Show. Queen Elizabeth, who was a young princess and keen horse rider at the time performed in that first event together with her mother and father and sister Margaret. Princess Elizabeth won the Single Private Driving on her pony Hans and Princess Margaret won the Wartime Utility Driving Class on the King’s Fell pony Gipsy.

A horse in action at the Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2010 / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by waldopepper

The celebration of the Queen´s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 promises to be an extra special occasion as for the first time in history visitors will be treated to guest performers that have been invited from all over the world. Britain´s sister countries, Canada and Australia will be represented by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the New South Wales Police Force Activity Ride respectively together with the Carosello de Carabiniere from Italy, Russia´s elegant team from the Kremlin Equestrian School and India´s spectacular Marwarhi Dancing Horses.

Events at The Royal Windsor Horse Show

The five day event takes places each year in either May or June and has grown in stature and size since the first show and today attracts around 8000 visitors. This year the five-day extravaganza opens on Wednesday 9th May with Hunter Showing Classes and the Horse and Hound Foxhunter jumping competition. Given the unpredictable and uncompromising weather the British Isles is famed for, an all weather artificial arena is laid in the main performance area together with special pathways for the safety of visitors.

And it´s not just a spectacular show of equestrian performances that the Royal Windsor Horse Show offers visitors, but is also home to more than 200 shops offering riding equipment and other equestrian goodies, fashion boutiques, household ornaments, jewellery and handicrafts. The event also boasts an excellent selection of restaurants menus and ample bars and cafes.

Further dates and details are available at the official Royal Windsor Horse Show website.

The Royal Windsor Horse Show is a fantastic event that any equine enthusiast must try to get to, book taxis online to reduce stress when travelling to the event.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Paul Wordingham

Skara Brae

This is the best attraction for those wanting to explore a prehistoric village. Amazingly, the architecture of the village is in great condition despite the fact that Skara Brae is thousands of years in age. The village is located just a short walk from the Bay of Skaill and was hidden from view until the middle of the nineteenth century. It is part of the Orkney UNESCO designated World Heritage Site. Admission is £6.90 for adults but there are reductions in price for children as well as for students. Skara Brae is located on the Mainland and is just a thirty minute drive from the town of Kirkwall. Accommodations include hotels, guesthouses and some of the most affordable apartments in Scotland which are ideal for long term visitors or those looking for additional privacy and the comforts of home.

Scapa Flow

Few people associate the Orkney Islands with incredible diving, but there are a number of exciting things to explore underwater in Scapa Flow, the body of water off the coast of the islands. During World War II, many of the German military boats and submarines were sunk in this area. Today many of them are easily located and at depths that can be reached by a beginner scuba diver. For holiday ideas that are truly adventurous, contact one of the many scuba diving companies on the islands to book a tour. It is suggested that you dive with a local resident to ensure that you find the best sunken ships during your submersion.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by yellow book

Stromness Museum

If you only get a chance to visit one museum during your stay in the Orkney Islands, make it this museum. The Stromness Museum is located on the mainland and boasts a large amount of information regarding the history of the islands, some of the oldest historical landmarks like Skara Brae and a recap of the maritime history in the region. There are even exhibits about the natural wildlife in Orkney. In short, this is the perfect rainy day activity to enjoy alone or as a family. Admission is £1.90 per person. The museum is located in the Mainland town of Stromness which boasts some attractive architecture as well as a hostel, a budget hotel and several private apartments available for rental.

Tips from Locals

If you plan to visit the Orkney Islands, be sure to book your accommodations in advance. In busy summer days it is not unusual for some visitors to be without a place to stay and even without public transport on some of the more remote islands. For some of the best views in the region, walk along the coast of the Mainland Islands until you get to Ness Point, the location where some of the most incredible photos on the entire island are taken.

By using these helpful tips and visiting the top attractions, you will undoubtedly have an amazing holiday in the Scottish Orkney Islands.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by penwin

1) Keukenhof

First, have you ever seen photos of fields of flowers — that look more like bold, dramatic stripes that go on forever? Well, you were probably looking at images from Keukenhof; it’s the largest flower garden in the world, and is known as “The Garden of Europe.” From March to May, you’ll see long rows of blooms in hues such as purple, yellow and red. About seven million flower bulbs are planted each year. It really is a spectacle not to be missed. You’ll find dining and accommodations at fine establishments such as Restaurant-Hotel Savelberg and NH Zandvoort.

2) Rotterdam

Next, travel over to Rotterdam, the second biggest city in this country. Here you’ll find the largest shipping port in Europe — and because of its vast commerce network, Rotterdam is known as “The Gateway to Europe.” Home of Erasmus University, this city was almost completely destroyed by bombing during World War II. It now, however, is a thriving metropolitan area that hosts several cultural festivals each year, such as for film and music. For meals, step inside Izakaya or Restaurant Ivy, and stay overnight at Hotel van Walsum or Hotel New York.

3) Delft

Another must-see, especially for pottery lovers and history buffs, is Delft. The old city of Delft holds much history — including tales about William of Orange — and is home to the famous blue pottery, which several factories there make. But take a tour at the Royal Dutch Delftware Factory to see just exactly how it’s made. For staying overnight, try Van Der Dussen or Matties. Restaurants worth trying include Hampshire Hotel and Bridges House Hotel.

4) Amsterdam

No trip to the Netherlands would be complete without stopping by Amsterdam — home of the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House. You might like to rent an apartment for the duration of your stay, and if so, renting one of the many Amsterdam apartments might even be less expensive than hotel rooms. Some Amsterdam accommodations include those in the heart of the city and on the outskirts. If being on your own and experiencing this city by blending in with the locals is for you, then renting your own apartment for the holiday. Check out the local cuisine too, such as found at De Kas and the Pancake Bakery.

5) Alkmaar

Finally, stop by Alkmaar. There you’ll discover the Cheese Museum. If you’re a fan of the culinary arts, you won’t want to miss this tour. Also, grab a bite to eat at Hof van Alkmaar or Portofino. If you stay overnight, try the Grand Hotel Alkmaar or the Golden Tulip.
With these top-five cities on your itinerary, you’ll store up a lifetime of memories, and your entire trip will be packed full of excitement. Do your research before you go, and you’ll have an appreciation of the Netherlands that will forever stay with you.

Robin Sharman is a travel blogger who writes about places to visit all over Europe.  A keen traveller, Robin also recommends renting apartments in Rome, Paris and London instead of always going to hotels.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Frank van de Velde

In addition to its scenic 17th Century canals, relaxed coffee shops and notorious red-light district, it’s packed with landmarks, historical sites and museums. Nicknamed “Mokum” or “Safe Haven”, Amsterdam has a broad range of officially recognised buildings and institutions, as well as surplus, charming oddities.

Certainly one of the first ports of call is the Van Gogh Museum, which houses the largest collection of paintings and drawings by the Dutch artist (who was born in Zundert, which is about 80 miles from Amsterdam). It is the most-visited museum in the country and one of the most popular in the world, which is bittersweet considering the sad life of Van Gogh, who died at 37 without receiving recognition for his paintings.

The “Achterhuis” in Amsterdam is the preserved hiding place where wartime diarist Anne Frank and her family hid from German soldiers in World War II. It exhibits the life and times of the young writer and artist, and is dedicated to all forms of persecution and discrimination. Whether or not you have come across Anne Frank’s diary from 1945, the museum is a deeply humbling place to visit.

Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Minke Wagenaar

Near Anne Frank House is the stately Prinsengracht or Prince’s Canal (named after the 16th Century Dutch Prince of Orange). It is the longest canal in the city and is home to a number of historical sites including the Noordekerk or Northern Church, the bustling Noordermarkt (Northern Market, which is lined with restaurants and shops) and the Westerkerk (Western Church), which is the tallest church in Amsterdam.

Packed with things to see and do – from midnight mass to saucy cabaret – Amsterdam is one of Europe’s premier tourist cities, and well worth the visit.

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Photo by Bernhard Waldmann

However the first things you notice on your arrival from the south is the sky full of smoking chimneys and gray massive prison. But, the city centre, consisting of a grid of straight streets, hides some gems that are worth your attention.

The dominant feature of Daugavpils’s city centre is three-aisled St. Boris and Gleb Orthodox Cathedral, built in the neo-Russian style. This great structure with a total of ten towers culminating in a gilded dome, rises on a hill along with two other temples. Towers of these sanctuaries create a unique cityscape.

The most notable monument of Daugavpils is a huge fortification built in 1810 by the Russians during the Napoleonic wars. There is also a war memorial, which recalls that during the World War II, the city was a place of a concentration camp Stalag. The fort is considered the largest of its kind in Europe. Museum of Regional History and Art guarded by stone lions is also worth a visit as well as a large sports complex, which is situated in one of the few really modern buildings in the city. Daugavpils is now slowly changing into a friendly town with lots of green areas and a good range of services and recreational facilities for its residents and visitors.

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