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Carnival in Rio de Janeiro 2012

2012-02-18T23:01:00.041+02:00

-News & Events-
2012 Rio Carnival, the most famous Carnival of Brazil, has opened on Friday, February 17 and will last for the next five days, untill the "Ash Wednesday", on February 22. The annual Carnival in Rio de Janeiro (held before Lent) is a place for a spectacular parades, brilliant costumes, colorful performances and endless dances. The final event will take place on Saturday, February 25.

Every year Rio de Janeiro attracts thousands of tourists to watch the world biggest Carnival. This year about 2 million of people took part in the "Cordao da Bola Preta" parade, which held on the streets of Rio. In total, during 2012 Rio Carnival, will be organized some 400 parades.

The hotels in Rio are full to the limits, because of a big number of tourists this year. About 850,000 tourists are said to be in Rio de Janeiro.

Officially, festivities began from the ceremony of the keys handover of the city, from the mayor of Rio de Janeiro to the comic owner of the Carnival, "King Momo". And with the performance of the Children´s Samba Schools Parade in the evening.

The "Sambodrome", parade avenue with tribunes, is the main place for the Rio Carnival. It has been finally reconstructed this year, and can fit up to 80,000 of visitors. Nomerous Samba Schools shows their achievements, moving under the fiery music on the Sambadrome. There are 5 different parades in the Sambadrome: Samba Schools in the Special Group (Feb 19-20), Champions Parade (Feb 25), Samba Schools in Group "A" ,"B" (Feb 18, 21) and Children's Samba Schools (Feb 17).

On Sunday and Monday (February 19, 20) will be the culmination of the festival. It is competition time for 13 top league samba schools, who are fighting for titles at the Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. Every samba school has up to 5 thousands of dancers. The winner will be determined by the Jury.

Around 80 per cent of those taking part are poor local people who receive their costumes free. Others, who are mostly Brazilian, pay up to 300 euros to take part, reported Euronews.

According to the programme of the Rio Carnival 2012, among the main events to visit are:
"the Opening Ceremony" (Feb 17, at 13:00)
"Children´s Samba Schools Parade" (Feb 17, at 19:00)
"Cordao da Bola Preta Parade" (Feb 18, at 9:30)
"Parade of the Samba Schools in the Special Group" (Feb 19-20, at 21:00, Sambadrome)
"Champions´ Parade " (Feb 25, at 21:00 Sambodrome)

And the final event on the Sambodrome of the Rio Carnival 2012 will complete the Festival already after the officially closing, on February 25, by the Parade of the winners.

Travel with knowledge!

img source: wikipedia.org, youtube.com

Where to go in Berlin while Berlinale 2012

2012-02-15T10:39:00.331+02:00

-City Guide-

This year, the 62nd annual Berlin International Film Festival, Berlinale 2012, began on 9 February and is expected to run until 19 February 2012.

The Berlinale is one of the biggest and leading film festivals. Founded in West Berlin in 1951, it is held every year in February, since 1978, in Berlin (Germany). The highest prize awarded for the best film at the Berlinale is The Golden Bear (Goldener Bär). Another honored prize is the Silver Bear - an award for the best short film and for individual achievements in acting and direction. The festival is devided into the several sections. Among others are: Competition, Panorama, Forum, Generation, Berlinale Shorts and Retrospective. Since 2000 the Theatre at Potsdamer Platz (Berlinale Palast) is the house for the main events at the Berlinale.

10 days in Berlin is a good reason to not only dive into the cinema world but also is a good chance to discover the most interesting places in the German capital. Berlin has a wide range of places to visit. Beautiful squares and spectacular architecture of the central city, endless museums and galleries, exhibitions and clubs.

Things to do in Berlin

1. The Gendarmenmarkt
The Gendarmenmarkt is one of the most beautiful square in Berlin. With The Konzerthaus (a concert hall) in the middle of the square, and two magnificent Cathedrals - the French and German. In the center of the Gendarmenmarkt is set a statue of German poet Friedrich Schiller. Both Cathedrals built in the 1700's and reconstructed during 1780's. The German Cathedral was almost completely destroyed after World War II and was rebuilt from 1977 to 1988. Today the French Cathedral houses a Huguenot museum and the German Cathedral works as the Bundestag's museum about German parliamentary history. On the Gendarmenmarkt is a large number of restaurants, shops and hotels.

2. The Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate, built from 1788 to 1791, is probably
the most well known symbol of Berlin and Germany. This landmark is located on the Unter den Linden, Pariser Platz 0117. The design of the Gate is based upon the gateway to the Acropolis in Athens (Greece). Atop the gate is the Quadriga - the sculpture of a chariot drawn by four horses driven by Victoria, the Roman goddess of victory. After Napoleon conquered Berlin in 1806, he took the Quadriga to Paris. But it stayed in France not long and in 1814, after Napoleon's defeat, the goddess Victoria returned to Berlin and received the Iron Cross, a new symbol of Prussian power.

3. Pergamon Museum
The Pergamon Museum is the most visited museum in Berlin, built during 1910-1930 on the Museum Island, primarily for the Pergamon Altar, found by Carl Humann. The museum collection is subdivided into the Antiquity Collection, the Middle East museum, and the museum of Islamic art.
The monumental Pergamon Altar is a famous work of art of the Hellenic period. It has been delivered from Turkey. The Altar is a one of the terraces of the Acropolis of the ancient Greek city of Pergamon in Asia Minor (modern Turkey). Another famous exponents of the museum are: Market Gate of Miletus, The Ishtar Gate and the Processional Way from Babylon, The Mshatta Facade.

4. The Reichstag building
The Reichstag building (Parliament Building) is a famous historical object and one of the symbols of Berlin, which is located on the Platz der Republik (Tiergarten, 11011). During 1894-1933 it was the place for the Reichstag (the Parliament of the German Empire and Veimarc Republic) and from 1999 housed the Bundestag (a federal legislative body of Germany or simply - the modern German Parliament). The Reichstag was severely damaged in a fire in the 1930th and after World War 2 on May 1945. After its full reconstruction in 1999 the main attraction for all visitors of the Reichstag building is its new dome. The large glass Reichstag dome has a 360-degree view of the surrounding Berlin and avaliable for visits for free but only after prior registration at the official web-site of the Reichstag.

5. Picture Gallery "Gemaldegalerie"
The Gemäldegalerie is a popular art museum located on the Stauffenbergstrasse 40 (on Kulturforum west of Potsdamer Platz), has a wide selection of European artwork from the 13th to the 18th centuries. In the 72 rooms (a two-kilometer floor) are exhibited a masterpieces from such artists as Raphael, Titian, Caravaggio, Peter Paul Rubens, Rembrandt, Albrecht Durer, Johannes Vermeer and Lucas Cranach

6. Pariser Platz
Right at the end of the Unter den Linden and situated immediately behind the Brandenburg Gate is a Pariser Platz, the central Berlin's square. It was named after the French capital, in honour of the German occupation of Paris in 1814. Before World War II, Pariser Platz was one of the grandest square in Berlin, with the Academy of the Arts, the Adlon Hotel -the finest Berlin hotel, and the American and French embassies. After the War, Pariser Platz turned into ruins, together with the Brandenburg Gate. But thanks to the afterwar reconstruction, the famous Platz has become a fine city area again.

7. Berlin Cathedral
Is the biggest Protestant Church of Germany. The Cathedral is located on the Museum Island (the Mitte borough) with the Lustgarten park in front of it. The building is made in the style of Baroque, richly decorated and has a luxuriant interiors.

8. Memorial of the Berlin Wall
The Memorial of the Berlin Wall on Bernauer Strasse dedicated to the Berlin Wall and the victims who tried to cross the wall to get into the West Berlin.
The Memorial consists of the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Chapel of Reconciliation, and the Documentation Center. At the center you can read everything about the history of the wall. The Berlin Wall was constructed by the pro-USSR GDR, as a barrier between West Berlin and East Berlin and from surrounding East Germany. It stood during 1961-1989.

9. The Fernsehturm
Is a television tower in the central Berlin, close to Alexanderplatz. With its height of 368 meters, it is the 4th tallest tower in Europe after the tv towers in Moscow, Kiev and Riga. The Fernsehturm is one of the well recognizable symbols of Berlin. Most of all it is interesting of its visitor's observation platform and a restaurant in the middle of the sphere, approximately at a height of about 205 metres

10. The Tiergarten Park
The Tiergarten Park (The Großer Tiergarten) in Berlin is one of the biggest public parks in Europe. It has around 210 Hectares (520 acres). This land of greens is bigger than the Hyde Park in London (125h) and smaller than the Central Park in New York (335ha). Take a ride on one of the main magistrals which are going through the Park, and crossroads in the cener of the Tiergarten at the square Großer Stern ("Great Star") with the Siegessaule (Victory column) located in its centre. The principal road is the Straße des 17 Juni (The Street of June 17th) which ends near the Brandenburg Gate.

Travel with knowledge!

img source: wikipedia.org
legal notice: The logo of Berlinale owned by Internationale Filmfestspiele Berlin, is protected under copyrights. It used in this article because of the logo related story. The significance of the logo is to help the reader identify the organization.

The annual Carnival has opened in Venice

2012-02-05T11:00:00.043+02:00

-News & Events- / -City Guide-
The traditional Carnival of Venice (Carnevale di Venezia 2012) has opened on Saturday (the 4th of February) and will last for the next two and a half weeks, untill "Fat Tuesday" on February 21. Venitian Carnaval 2012 is held under the slogan "Life is theatre! It's time to get masked" (italiano-"La vita e teatro. Tutti in maschera").

The famous city on the water attracts every year a thousands of tourists to watch and take a part in the Venitian Carnaval which is taking place against the background of the unique scenery. A trip to Italian Venice during the Carnival will be interesting for every traveler.

Festivities as always began on the Saint Marco Square (Piazza San Marco) where is set a fountain with a red wine. In addition, this year in Venice at the entrance to the Grand Canal, has appeared a 9-meter high wooden statue of a bull, which will be burned on the last day of carnival.

Due to this year's slogan "Life is Theatre", all the squares, streets, canals and bridges of Venice in the next few days will turn into a real theater area, where will be given, perhaps, one of the most interesting and exciting performances in the world.

The most interesting ceremonies during the Carnaval are "The flight of the Angel" (February 12),"Water parade", dedicated to all Venetians and Guests (February 5), and "The Best Masked Costume Contest " (February 19).

According to organizers, due to bad weather, the traditional water parade of boats on Sunday is cancelled. The event will take place the same today, February Sunday 5th, starting from 11.30 am, at Cannaregio, with the Food Feast by AEPE and artistic performances.

On February 12 in the central square of San Marco, from a hundred-metter tower, an "Angel" will come down to the crowd. Usually this flight attracts the largest number of viewers.

Each day during the Festival of Venice, will be filled with a numerous of carnival exhibitions, theatrical performances and musical programs, which will take place throughout the city from the morning and till the late evening.

According to the program of Venice Carnival 2012 events among others we suggest to take a part in:
"Festa Veneziana" (February 5, at 11.30 am, at Cannaregio),
"The Ice rink at Piazza Ferretto", € 5-10 (Feb 5, 11:00-19:00/Feb 7-21, 15:00-19:00)
"Opening of the Gran Teatro di San Marco with the artists of the Carnival Festival" (Feb 11(-21), 11:00 Piazza San Marco)
"Parade for the Best Masked Costume Contest of the Carnival 2012" (Feb 11-13,16-18 at 11:00 and 16:00 Piazza San Marco)
"The theatre of sweetness - music, flavours and chocolate" (Feb 11/12 10:00-19:00 Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio)
"Volo dell'Angelo" - Reebok Angel Flight" (Feb 12, 12:00 Piazza San Marco )
"Black & White night" (Feb 13, at 19:00 Piazza San Marco)
"The theatre of sweetness - Special St Valentine's day" (Feb 13-14 10:00-19:00 Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio)
"The Best Masked Costume Contest - The Final" (Feb 19, 14:30/16:00 Piazza San Marco)
"Carnival in the Old Town Centre" (Feb 20, 15.00 /16.00 Venezia-Murano-Burano)
"The silent water parade" (Feb 21, 23.30 From Rialto to San Marco, Single place: € 75,00; Entire gondola (max 5 places): € 350,00 )
"The Wine Fountain " Every day in Piazzetta San Marco it will be possible to taste a selection of the best wines of the region Veneto.

And on February 21 the "Silent regatta" of the gondolas will complete the Festival of Venice 2012. A water parade of traditional rowing boats will float along the Grand Canal, from Rialto to San Marco.

Traveling in Italy this month check the weather forecast for at least 5 days ahead, because of the cold winter over Europe.
Travel safely!

source: zn.ua/, (including photos)carnevale.venezia.it, wikipedia.org
legal notice: copyright owner for the first three photos is Venezia Marketing & Eventi S.p.A.

Extreme cold weather throughout Europe

2012-02-01T15:33:00.015+02:00

-News & Events- [Last updated on 5th February 2012]
The Central and Eastern Europe faced these days the most strong frosts have seen for the past 6 years, with below freezing temperatures down to -35 by Celcius (-31 degrees Fahrenheit). Affected areas impresses with its scale from Turkey to Germany.

Traveling in Europe these days are not likely and even dangerous for the life in some areas. Winter holidays and extreme cold winter, which is managing now over Europe, are two different concepts.

Ukraine and Poland are among the most affected countries, with the temperatures down to -35C during the nights. In the capitals, Kiev and Warsaw, the temperature last night was -28 and -24 by Celsius (-18 and -11 degrees Fahrenheit).

The real temperature will feel much lower in comparison with the nominal temperature because of the correction on the power of the wind and humidity level.

Schools and other education institutions in the most of Ukraine have canceled classes until Monday. Ukraine's Emergency Situations Ministry said 131 people have died as a result of the cold since Friday. Most of the dead were homeless people. Some 2,700 heated tents openning across the country. In Poland 37 people already died because of the frosts. The Goverment of Poland urged people to look out for the homeless and elderly.

Romania and Bulgaria started this week with -22C in average. In Romania troops were deployed to risque people affected by blizzards. The Russian capital Moscow saw lows of -22C at midday of Tuesday, but the real temperature felt like -31C (-24F).

In Serbia and Slovakia an extreme frosts increased to -29C and -24C.

In the Czech Republic the railways suffered as the extreme weather buckled tracks and engines broke down, reported Euronews.

Abnormally cold days came to the traditionaly warm areas of the Southern Europe. Such countries as Greece, Italy, Turkey, Albania, Macedonia also seeing heavy snow and below- freezing temperatures.
For example in Athens, comparing with an average for the time of year of 14 degrees Celsius, in the morning of Wednesday was only 0 degrees Celsius, and the real temperature felt like -2C.

In Istanbul, all non-essential employees working for the city were given administrative leave, Anatolian news agency reported. Heavy snows expected through all Turkey- from the coast of the Black Sea across the country to the eastern Mediterranean coast. 20cm of snow fell – the most seen in 50 years. Major highways have been affected because of the snowfalls. The Ataturk International airport in Istanbul reopened Monday after weekend's break.

The cold air come even to Africa. The desert in Marocco were covered with a thick layer of snow and transformed the famous sandy views where was filmed such movies as Alexander the Great and Star Wars, to the arctic landscapes.

Only such countries in the Western Europe as Spain, Portugal, Great Britain, France and others around are not much exceed their average temperatures as for the winter season.

Extreme colds will stay till the weekend the less. Thus re-plan your trips according to the weather conditions. Travel safely!

video/img source: youtube.com/

New Year 2012 Eve Celebrations and Traditions

2012-01-03T14:51:00.341+02:00

Happy New Year for Everyone!!!

New 2012 Year has come under a spectacular shows and fireworks throughout all planet! Countries around the world have been celebrating the arrival of 2012.

New Zealand was the first country which celebrated the New Year. Because of heavy rains, organizers had to cancel most of the celebrations. But regardless of the weather, which accompanied the last days of December in New Zealand, an impressive fireworks at the Sky Tower in the business center of Auckland wasn't canceled.

One of the biggest New Year shows held in australian Sydney. The incredible light effects begun three hours before midnight and was centered around Sydney Harbour - on the harbour bridge and the famous Opera House. This year organizers spent millions dollars and 9 tons of explosives. But 15 minutes of fairy tale is probably worth it. A spectacular fireworks named "Time to Dream". About 1,5 millions of people was watching live the famous fireworks on the Sydney harbour bridge.

In Tokyo, thousands of people which has come on the squares to celebrate the New Year, at midnight let in the sky air ballons with the new year whishes.

Tens of thousands of people in Hong Kong counted down together the seconds before the New Year, which was projected onto the wall of the skyscraper.

A spectacular fireworks had place in the United Arab Emirates. Unforgetable and impressive fireworks embraced the Burj Khalifa skyscraper in Dubai, the tallest building in the world, which is 800m (2,723 ft) in height!

In Greek festive decorated Athens, the New Year come as always under a colorful fireworks above the Acropolis and all over the city.

Some 200,000 of people turned out in the Independence Square in Ukranian capital Kiev to celebrate the arrival of the New Year and to see a fireworks. Entertained the crowd a number of local stars on the stage right under the biggest in Europe Christmas Tree. A beautiful light show lasted for about 10 minutes.

In the New Year's evening Italian Rome was exploded with a set of fireworks too. The temperamental Italians has their own interesting new year's tradition - is to get rid of old or unused stuff by dropping them from the window at midnight. It could be a T-shirt or even furniture! :)

About one million people joined the two kilometre long "party mile" in German capital Berlin, where exactly at midnight, the famous Brandenburg Gate were illuminated with the new year's fireworks. For some Germans, New Year's tradition is to jump in the last second before the New Year for a new, dynamic begginings.

Regardless of the rain, thousands of Parisians came under the Eiffel Tower and on the Field of Mars for celebrating the arrival of 2012. The most romantic French landmark met people with a beautiful New Year's lights.

In the center of London, near the London Eye, hundreds of thousands of people gathered to see a great and colorful fireworks. Everything in the central London was filled with a people - squares, streets and bridges across the Thames. For get a better place to see the show, some people came from the morning of December 31. These fireworks was advertised as the rehearsal of the Olympic Games openning ceremony. The show started with the rings of the Big Ben, which was exploded the lights with every bell. Many of the fireworks formed the shape and colours of the Olympic rings. Continued performance the London Eye wich was "dancing" under the music with a spectacular firework show.

The famous New Year tradition could be observed in Spain again. In Madrid thousands of residents counted down in Puerta del Sol along with doing their "grape's tradition" - by eating 12 grapes in time with the clock's rings.

Regardless of rain showers, about two million people come to Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro for the Year End party. The biggest in Brazil New Year party had started right after the midnight with unforgatable massive fireworks. In Brazil people has a tradition to meet the New Year in a white clothes.

In the city of New York, the annual dropping ceremony of the famous big crystal ball has taken place at the Times Square in the last minute of 2011 as a sign of the New 2012 Year arrival. This tradition comes since 1907, when the ball fallen first time, on the roof of the New York Times skyscraper. Only at 1942-43 the ball wasn't running because of the military blackout for camouflage the city center. This year thousands of New Yorkers was celebrating the New Year together with the performances of the singers Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber.

"The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page", Saint Augustine. Discover Europe and beyond with Travel Europe Guide. Travel with us in the New 2012 Year!

video/img source: youtube.com/, wikipedia.org

Top 10 places worth to visit on Christmas

2011-12-23T21:51:00.023+02:00

-City Guide- / -Tips-
It's Christmas time! And on Sunday the 25th, we will be celebrate this great Holiday! If you have decided to make a trip during Holidays - Christmas is a good time to discover countries and join to people's celebrations!

We made our list of top 10 destinations which will be interesting to visit while traveling on Christmas days. Every country has its own traditions of celebrating along with a common style of decorations, because it is well known that on Xmas every city looks especially festively and attractive, like in a fairy tale!

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna or cultural capital of Europe, wich is the second name of Vienna, cozy and comfortable, this city is just beautiful on Christmas days. It saves the traditions, full of folk and romantic events. The city is well decorated with Xmas lights and trees. The main Christmas Tree of Vienna is erected in front of the townhall. The famous Christmas markets, which are very popular in Austria and Germany, are another required part of the Holiday. The biggest one, "Christkindlmarkt", is open at Rathausplatz, between Rathaus (city hall) and Burgtheater, - a place with the aroma of freshly baked biscuits and freshly cut pine trees. Here you can buy any present or gift, handmade jobs, sweets and toys. Also, worth to visit the Christmas Market in front of the famous and beautiful Schonbrunn castle. "Gluhwein" (mulled wine) -is another famous Viennese attribute for the winter. Ice skating in front of the City Hall ( Rathaus ) on Rathausplatz will be unforgetable time spending for whole family. And, of course, visit St. Stephen's Cathedral at the heart of Vienna, in the Stephansplatz.

2. Paris, France

Paris - the city of romance, is especially beautiful during Christmas holidays. Just imagine, Elysian fields covered with a thousands of lights, Triumphal Arch is shining with a special ilumination, and of course the Eiffel Tower, wearing with a holiday lights, is just beautiful ! Ice skating is open for free around all Paris with 4-5 euro charge for skates (free for kids). Disneyland Paris will be interesting for kids and their parents across December, with a Christmass programms and markets. Visiting Christmas market is a great winter stroll with a chance of get an interesting gifts which are handmade presents, traditional foodstuff, etc. Visit Christmas Market on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées - the biggest one in Paris, opened this year from November 11th till January the 2d 2012.

3. Athens, Greece

Christmas in Athens is a big set of festive events throughout all city. Hundreds of artists and volunteers made a Holiday season unforgetable, and especially magic for kids. Festivals continues for 30 days and evenings on the streets and squares of Athens, among them the central Syntagma, Kotzia and Klauthmonos squares. Singers and dancers, musicians and actors will made an event really colorfull! "At 3 main squares, in 17 neighborhoods and at 11 cultural centers, with 10 events and 700 artists for 30 days and 30 nights" - these are "Christmas in Athens", according to organizers.
Every festival is going to be different and aimed to represent the face of Athens - with a great thousand-year history, but modern and dinamic! Especially wonderfull looks, this Holiday time, a dozen of "natural" Xmas trees, which are gorgeous Orange trees and Mandarine trees - they looked fantastic!

4. New York, United States

In New York you will find everything you are looking for on Chrismas - place for your Xmas dinner, hundreds of events and performances, or shopping. Everyone saw in the photo or in the movie the Christmas tree of the city of big Apple. And it is one of the the most famous and beautiful Xmas trees, which is located in New York, in the Rockefeller Center Plaza, also known as the Capital of NYC Christmas. A fantastic but expensive skating, which is lying right under the Tree, is avaliable for $30 (21 + 9 rental). Much cheaper skating at the Central Park, about for $17. Another site which is interesting to see is the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden which is about 150 miniatures of NY landmarks. At Lincoln Center will be interesting to watch The Nutcracker in the performance of the New York City Ballet (November 25 - December 31, 2011.)

5. London, Great Britain

London is a perfect "Christmas city", with a lots of decorations, lights, Christmas trees, Christmas markets and ice rinks. Famous british traditions! Start your observation from the Trafalgar Square, and you will find there a beautiful Christmas Tree, which is a present from Norway, every year over 20 meters high and 50-60 years old. Ice skatings - is a tradition for London, they apper all over the city. We suggest to visit one, near London Eye, opened daily on December from 10am to 9pm; also, Ice skating at Somerset House - the most glamorous in London, set in the spectacular 18th century courtyard; and Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink on banks of the River Thames. Another Christmas tradition in London is the Nutcracker for over 50 years in the English National Ballet based at Markova House in South Kensington.

6. Madrid, Spain

The capital of Spain is another place which will be interesting to visit on Christmas holidays. Madrid is beautifully decorated, with a set of Christmas markets and events for kids and adults. The holiday begins on December 15th, with a show in Plaza de Oriente ( which is Metro Opera). Covered in Christmas lights the city invites to numerous Xmas markets, and the biggest one is in Plaza Mayor, which opened in late 20s of November. From December 5 until January the 8th throughout the city you can see and take a part in the Nativity Scenes, or in Spanish - "Belenes". It is interesting to discover, and the biggest Belenes will be at the Centro de Turismo de Colón, also at The Basílica Pontificia de San Miguel, and at Iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos in Moratalaz. Especially interesting will be to visit the Madrid Cathedral ( Santa Maria la Real de La Almudena) near the royal palace. Decorated on a holidays themes, it is a perfect place to think of the birth of the Son of God. Also, go to ice skating at the The Buen Retiro Park - the biggest in Madrid, close to the Puerta de Alcalá and not far from the Prado Museum. Beautiful and for royal only in the past, now Retiro park is public and it is a good place to rest and enjoy your vacation in Madrid!

7. Rome, Italy

If you're planning your trip on Christmas in Europe, write down to your list the capital of Italy. Rome is beautiful these holidays, with a lots of decorations and markets. A big Chrismas Tree is erected in saint Peter's Square every year, which is always a gift of some country to Pope's capital and whole Rome. And every year it is a huge, beautiful tree! This time, Ukraine has sent its Chrismas gift to Rome. The 82-foot spruce is decorated with about 2500 gold and silver balls, comes from the wild mountain forests in the west of Ukraine. Also worth to visit the famous square of Piazza Navona, where starting from December is placed a huge Christmas market. Any hand made and not only gifts you will find here, with a lots of sweets and toys. Near the church of St. Angelo you will find nice ice skating - open daily from 10am and till midnight.

8. Kiev, Ukraine

These days the center of the ukranian capital turns to the beautiful fairy tale place - with a colorfull ilumination everywhere, Christmas trees and ice rinks. Traveling in Kiev, you can see the biggest in Europe Cristmas Tree which is on the Independent Square, almost as big as the monument of Independence. Regardless that Christmas will be celebrates on January the 7th, starting from the early 10th of December the streets are full of decorations and Xmas lights ( according to the Julian calendar the Churches of Ukraine, Russia, and another few countries, are celebrating religious Holidays for 2 weeks later ). Traditions of celebrating Christmas in Ukraine goes to centuries ago, and they are full of dancing and folk music. Kreschatik -the main street of Kiev, is shining with the holidays lights, and it is free from cars for weekend from morning to 22.00. Also, there is a medium Christmas market on it. Nice ice rink is avaliable in the Besarabska square, at the Arena mall center. Numerous artists are performing on the holiday stage on the Independent square. Completing the atmosphere of Christmas - the holidays music wich is everywhere. Necessarily visit the Kiev Cathedral ( Kiev Cathedral of saint Vladimir) at the Vladimirska street, and the famous Saint Sophia Cathedral, which has celebrated this year, its 1000 (one thousand) year anniversary.

9. Montreal, Canada

This canadian city, which is one of the most comfortable cities for living, has its own unique Christmas offers. The lighting of the main Christmas tree, on Place Ville-Marie, is the beggining of the holiday season in Montreal. The tree is artificial, with almost 20 meters in height and decorated with 13,000 lights. Christmas nativity scenes could be seen at St. Joseph's Oratory, which is a tradition since 1981. Interesting to see an annual Christmas parades - Parade de Noël Anjou and Santa Claus Parade (Défilé du Père Noël). Also, the Canadian Pacific Railways offers you to be a "passanger" on the special Christmas Train aka Holiday Train!

10. Sydney, Australia / Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

This position in our rating share already two cities - Rio de Janeiro and Sydney - both with a set of traditional celebrations and both has the summer during December.
Christmas without the snow is an exotic variant of celebration for most people. What snow? - there is the summer in Australia and Brazil! Summer and the Christmas time!
(Sydney) Some snow can be found, though,- it's Sydney stores dress up for Christmas with the white colors! Santa on the beach, seafood instead of traditional chicken - that is the Cristmas in Sydney! Despite of the warm weather, the streets are decorated nicely, with a traditional, for western world, Xmas lights and ilumination. Sydney's city gardens turns to the Xmas colors - a lot of red blooming flowers among the green leafs. Especially symbolic looks the giant Christmas Tree in the center of Sydney. And it isn't a palm or something - it is a traditional Christmas Tree with a hundreds of golden balls and the star on the top.
(Rio de Janeiro) This city attracts visitors for Christmas, even without the snow, simply because of its holiday spirit! The beautiful and the biggest in the world floating Christmas Tree is the place definitly worth to see. It placed at Rodrigo de Freitas Lake. Near, atop Corcovado mountain, "hovers in the air" the statue of Jesus Christ (Cristo Redentor), illuminated with a special Xmas lights. Of course it looks especially magically in the evening. To feel the spirit of the Chrismas in Rio - visit The Old Cathedral of Rio (Praca XV square), where nativity scenes are displayed. Also worth to visit The Candelária Church and the modern-style (with an extraordinary architecture) Rio de Janeiro Cathedral.

Enjoy the Christmas time - wherever you are! On the trip to our top 10 destinations or traveling your country-home or just walking your city!

Merry Christmas and a Happy Holidays!!!

photo sources: youtube.com/, zn.ua/, wikipedia.org

Christmas Tree in Rio de Janeiro

2011-11-28T13:56:00.035+02:00

-News & Events-
These days, on Saturday evening, one of the world's biggest and famous Xmas tree was setted up in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The tree is standing on the water's platform at Rodrigo de Freitas Lake, and known as a floating Christmas Tree. An 85-m in height, it as tall as a 29-story building, according to the organizers.

Near, if you will watch on the top you'll see the giant statue of Christ the Redeemer ('Cristo Redentor') atop Corcovado mountain, which is illuminated with a special Xmas lights. The opening ceremony of this Xmas tree become the 3d biggest event in Brazil along with the Carnaval in Rio, and Copacabana New Year Eve. The ceremony was accompanied by a beautiful fireworks. This year it was its 16th eddition and the theme for the event this time is "a Gift for the Brazilian Family". If you will be on a vacation or planning to travel these places, keep on mind that the Xmas tree will be standing till the 7th of January 2012.

video source: youtube

Surfer Garrett McNamara from US rides world's biggest wave in Portugal

2011-11-15T20:00:00.021+02:00

-News & Events-
There is one place in Europe which attracts surfers and tourists from all over the world because of its unique natural wonder known as the “Nazaré Canyon" in Portugal. But about it a little later.

Garrett McNamara - the 44 year old pro surfer from Hawaii has broken the world record for the biggest wave ever surfed. It happened on 1 November on the coast of Praia do Norte (Nazaré) in Portugal. The wave was giant - 27,5 meters in height, which is about 90 feet!

The coast of Nazaré famed as the “Nazaré Canyon“. It is home to a deep water (5 km deep and 170km in length ) which funnels large swells from the Atlantic Ocean, creating record-breaking waves.

"It was a regular study surfing that day, the weather was perfect", told Surfer Today Garrett and his colleague Al Mennie which was acted as a lifeguard for the event.
Al said "I had the best seat in the house as he dropped down the face of the biggest wave I've ever seen. It was incredible. Most people would look scared but Garrett looked in control as he went down the most critical part of the wave."

"I feel so blessed and honoured... the waves here are such a mystery", told McNamara according to Surfer Today.

If you're planning your trip to the west-southern Europe make sure that you wrote down Portugal in the list. Traveling in Portugal will fill your vacation with unforgetable memories, such as a giants waves on the Nazaré Canyon!

video/img source: youtube

Top 7 food brands of Europe

2011-10-27T13:16:00.003+03:00

-Cuisine. Travel & Food-
European cuisine is very rich and everyone will find something unforgetable tasty among such a famous cuisines as an italian, french, greek, spanish etc. We made our rating of top 7 european food brands, which are the most popular among others. This 7 products are not the healthiest - they are the most popular food brands of their countries. We suggest do not consume them everyday. But they are the great way to taste while traveling! Of course you can order a pizza or buy feta cheese at your countryhome, but only in Italy you can try the real taste of italian Pizza or feel the taste of truth austrian Sausages only in Vienne!

TOP 7 European Food brands

1. Italian Pizza
The most famous italian product is - Pizza of course! It took a leadership among other italian food such as pasta or risotto. Four cheese, Margarita or Vegitariana will be tasty for everyone. The roots of pizza goes to greek cuisine, where very similar dish was preparing much before italians, it was bread with a cheese and olives , but in Italy added tomato sause and now everywhere a famous italian pizza is a guest on a table! Try several types of Pizza while traveling to Italy, in every pizzeria you will find some brand recipe, and everywhere it will be the real italian taste!

2. Belgian Chocolate
Who didn't try chocolate? I don't know such a people. Sweet or black, with nuts or jam - in any case it took the second place in our rating.
At first chocolate sales in the pharmacies as a medicament, and only after some time it became a sweet dessert. Belgianes came up with a chocolate candies, choco cakes and chocolate with a stuffings. Belgian chocolate famous for its perfect qualities, because it made only with the best ingridients, such as alpine milk and because of a big number of products wich made from the chocolate. Traveling to Belgium - visit one of hundreds of chocolate's stores.

3. French Champagne
This sparkling wine is no doubt the most popular french food brand. Neither Croissants nor foie gras can't competetive in popularity with french champaigne. During the centuries it has a second name - the Royal drink. According to the rules of production, Champagne must be made from the grapes of Chardonnay, Pinot noir and Pinot Meunier. After minimum 3 years of holding champaigne in the cellars it is ready for consuming or to be used as a shower in the winner ceremony of some racing! :)

4. Greek salad
This dish is probably the most famous among others in greek cuisine, and contain the mix of such greek brands as Feta Cheese and Olive oil. Together with tomatoes, onions and olives you can feel on taste what means to live in Greece. Greek Salad has been known since the ancient times and
in this case such a brand you can eat everyday, without any bad influence on your health. In fact, Greek salad is a very useful product because it belong to the mediterranean diet.

5. Austrian/German Sausages
This position was taken at once for two countries - Austria and Germany, because of an old dispute between Vienna and Frankfurt about invention of sausages. No matter who first prepared this product, both countries famed of it. Vienna sausages or Frankfurter have a perfect taste, made from a mixture of beef and pork, usually longer and thinner than, for example, american hot-dogs. While traveling in Vienna you will discover the popularity of this sausages - it sales everywhere, even under Opera. Tasted better with a tomato sause or mustard.

6. Ukranian Vareniki
Ukraine is the largest country in Europe - has a very rich cuisine traditions, not so popular so far, but very tasty! And the most tasty for the tourists amoung the ukranian food is "Vareniki", which are a paste products with a different filling inside. They has the shape of a half moon, and after they was filled with a stuffing, vereniki placed into the boiling water for a few minutes . Vareniki can be sweet or made with a filling based on potatoes, or with a meat, or with a mushrooms and cheese etc. Vareniki tasted better with a garlic souce or with a sour cream. Our choice is Vereniki with a Cherries, which are best together with 25% sour cream. Bon appetite!

7. English Pudding
English pudding took the seventh place in our rating. This famous british dessert which based on the eggs, sugar, milk and flour is one of the best ways to discover English cuisine, because of its popularity and dozen of recipes. Chocolate pudding will be a good addition to the tea or even on the holiday table as a Christmas pudding. Pudding is served Sir! :)

photos: en.wikipedia.org/,itv.com

Another general strike in Greece

2011-10-18T22:21:00.006+03:00

-News & Events- / -Tips-
...or what to do if you are a tourist and everything around is closed ?

These days Greece faced with a new general anti goverment strikes, which will continue for 2 days, starting on October 19th. And it isn't a full picture. To be exact, strikes will pass for 4 days, from Tuesday, and only during 19th and 20th of October everything will be closed - air ports, railways, transports, sea ports. Difficult situation to say the least, but much harder for Greeks which fighting for their rights not a first year. From another side of the medal - what to do if you are a tourist and everything is closed? Interesting question!
Here you are 3 things to do:

First thing to do,- Greece is a land of islands, thousands of islands, and trip among them is a perfect vacation for 2 days! Rent a small yacht - that's a decision. Traveling on a small yacht isn't expensive, and even if you can't drive it, hiring a captan won't rise your charge for too much.

Second thing to do - is a walk trip. Because you can't go by the transport, walking tour is a great alternative. Since you in Greece - find an interesting route won't be hard. Of course such a famous and big objects like the Parthenon in Athens or the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki will be closed, but don't forget that Ellada (Greece) is a big museum itself. Even the metro in Athens routed through the ancient temples! Wherever you are rested- just look around and you will find some historic site - amphitheater or millennial columns, which will be a perfect place to spend time and make a couple of photos for memory. For example, in Athens - just walk near Acropolis, there is a great park around.

And finaly, third thing to do - simply stay at your hotel! Which isn't so bad perspective, because almost every hotel is like a mini city, with its own cinema, shops, restaraunts and pools. If you find that the weather is not for swimming - use hotel's indoor pool. If your hotel doesn't have it - visit any neighboring one, for not a big charge you can enjoy a water sports - swimming, diving, etc.

Thus, from any situation you can find a solution, even if everything around on strike. Just think a little bit. And be patient to Greeks, they strikes not because of a good life.
Have any other interesting ideas - share in comments!

5 Reasons to follow Mediterranean diet

2011-10-14T12:47:00.015+03:00

-Cuisine. Travel & Food-
Traveling in the southern Europe, you can discover not only the beauty of historic sites and the nature of Greece, Italy, Cyprus and beyond, but also feel the taste of national cuisines which are famous as the healthiest cuisine in the world.
Everyone has heard about mediterranean diet, but far not everyone knows that it is easy to follow it with a lots of benefits. This diet it isn't a classic diet with a set of products wich can be eaten or not. It is more a life style with some common preferences of food.

The Mediterranean diet inspired by the traditional dietary patterns of Greece, southern Italy, Crete, and almost every country of the region, which has a different cuisines, but there are many characteristics common to them all:
This diet, in addition to regular sports activity, include a lot of plant foods, grains, fresh fruit as the typical daily dessert, Olive oil as the principal source of fat, dairy products - cheese (mozzarella, feta), yogurt, fish in moderate amounts, eggs , red meat consumed in low amounts, and some wine in low to moderate amounts.

Total balance of nutrition:
60% carbohydrates (bread, pasta, fruit, vegetables).
30% fat (mainly Olive oil)
10% protein (meat, fish, peas, beans)

5 Reasons to follow Mediterranian diet

reason #1 - " always" young
Olive oil, which is the main source of fats, is a well known antiaging product. It is rich in various antioxidants (vitamin E, polyphenols) which play a positive, biological role in eliminating free radicals, the molecules involved in some chronic diseases and ageing, and in extending life expectancy. Plus, olive oil has a large proportion of vitamins A, D and K, as well as vitamin E, the main source of protection against the free radicals that produce cell oxidation. This makes it a good aid in specific therapies to treat skin disorders. *

reason #2 - Stay in a good shape
Products rich for a cellulose, which are fresh fruits and vegitables in addition with a sport helps to fight against fats and an excess weight. Olive oil lowers the levels of total blood cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides. At the same time it does not alter the levels of HDL-cholesterol (and may even raise them), which plays a protective role and prevents the formation of fatty patches.

reason #3 - Less illnesses *
Such products as Olive oil with a lots of fruits and veggies will increase a quality of life, by fighting with a hight blood preassure, hight blood sugar level, and even with a cancer.
According to the International Olive Council:
Olive-oil-rich diets can attenuate the effect of fatty foods in encouraging blood clot formation, thus contributing to the low incidence of heart failure in countries where olive oil is the principal fat consumed.
Also, it has been demonstrated that a diet that is rich in olive oil, low in saturated fats, moderately rich in carbohydrates and soluble fibre from fruit, vegetables, pulses and grains is the most effective approach for diabetics. Besides lowering the "bad" low-density lipoproteins, this type of diet improves blood sugar control and enhances insulin sensitivity.
Eating a healthy diet with olive oil as the main source of fat could considerably lower cancer incidence.

reason #4- Improve your personal life
Regular physical activity is vital to maintaining good health and optimal weight. Plus, playing sports you'll find a new friends or meet your guy/girl

reason #5 - It is tasty!
Fruits, vegitables, italian pizza, tomato or greek salad with Olive oil, some wine - isn't tasty? Of course it is! It is delicious! Just don't forget to do some physical exercises as well, and Enjoy your life! :)

* according to the International Olive Council, http://www.internationaloliveoil.org/web/aa-ingles/oliveWorld/salud.html

Athens Acropolis on the lock

2011-10-12T10:52:00.001+03:00

-News & Events-
The famous greek Acropolis in Athens has been closed among the others museums and historical sites due to the strikes against the goverment plans of dismissal 30,000 people.

This protests will be continued till friday, thus if you have a vacation in Greece these days, make a note in your plans and be patient. After all, such a beautiful place as a Parthenon can be photographed from everywhere around, and a visits there will be avaliable in two days.

Grand opening of the Olympic Stadium

2011-10-09T14:16:00.006+03:00

-News & Events-
Yesterday in Kiev (Ukraine) has passed a grand opening ceremony of the Olympic Stadium - the main stadium of European Football Championship UEFA EURO 2012.

A new arena has an "Elite" class, with the biggest in the world roof, which cover all seats, and can fit about 71,000 people.
The stadium isn't absolutely new, but has its own 100 year history, and was rebuild on the place of the old Republican Stadium.

In the ceremony took part about 3,5 thousand artists, with a performance of local stars - Ani Lorak, Gaitana, and a special guest - Shakira.

Traveling in Ukraine, visit this great building in the heart of the capital.

photo: zn.ua/
legal notice: the words "UEFA" and "EURO 2012" are trademarks owned by © Union of European Football Associations. They used in this article because of the TM related story. The significance of the UEFA trade marks is to help the reader identify the organization.

Extreme weather in Austria

2011-10-08T17:24:00.018+03:00

-News & Events-
Last night Austria "moved" from the summer to winter, the temperature have dropped for 28 degrees, from almost 30 to 0 (!) by Celcius.
Temperature drops accompanied by winds and heavy snowfalls. The weather changes affected neighboring Croatia.
Only yesterday people were in shorts and now, just after the night, they have to wear their winter coats.
Thus traveling in off-season always keep in mind to check the weather forecast for about 3 days ahead.

General strike in Greece

2011-10-05T17:07:00.001+03:00

-News & Events-
A 24-hour general strike in Greece amid continued protests against government spending cuts and plans to lay off the "working reserve" of 30 000 civil servants in exchange for the next tranche of aid from the EU and the IMF.

All public transport in Athens, including railways ,except underground, has announced the stoppage of work. Also all greek airports have canceled all flights for 24 hours because of the strike air traffic controllers, who joined to the trade unions.

A spokeswoman for Athens airport said more than 400 domestic and international flights have already been cancelled.

Thus take into account these transport problems while traveling in Greece on Wednesday, and be patient to greek people who fighting for their rights.

Denmark against Olive Oil

2011-10-03T16:34:00.007+03:00

-News & Events-

From now , Denmark the first and the only one country in the world wich established a tax for an "extra fats" in the food, reported Deutsche Welle.
Under a power of the new tax will go all food where the fats content more than a 2,3%.
Local authorities says it will "stimulate" a healthy preferences in food.
Which is sounds very strange and even weird, to say the least, because under such a description falls almost everything which is not a fruits and vegitables.

Hard to imagine, but from the view of Danish goverment, such a useful product as Olive Oil considered as not healthy and will be taxed with an extra 2,15 euro.

Thus traveling to Denmark, don't forget to check your money, because an icecream, or butter or milk or pizza etc, will cost more, in average for 10%.

Back to Summer

2011-10-02T16:51:00.004+03:00

-News & Events-

These days a half of western Europe dives into the summer again.
Lucky people of England, France, Germany wich used to much colder temperatures this season, can wear again their summer clothes, thanks to established extensive anticyclone that came from the Mediterranean, and brings such a great temperature, up to +30C!

meteo map of Europe, source CNN.com

Especialy hot in Great Britain. Last Saturday was the warmest October the 1st in the British history, informed the British Met Office. Plus 30C in the town of Gravesend in Kent in southeast England, which is more than the previous record, set 26 years ago - October 1, 1985 - in Cambridgeshire.

Summary weather for England

temp map, source euronews.net

The first of October in England was warmer than in Athens, Barcelona, Rome and Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the Royal Society for the growers reported that the number of plants, instead of falling into a period of winter dormancy, once again set off in growth.
Such a warm weather will stay here at least for a next 3 days.

Enjoy the summer weather!

Livadia Palace, 100th anniversary

2011-09-30T23:17:00.008+03:00

-News & Events-
These days, one of the famous ukrainian palace, has celebrating its 100th year after it was build, and it is Livadia Palace, the summer residency of the last russian king, and the place where was born the consept of the United Nations organization.

The palace was built in the italian style and located in the picturesque place on the southern coast of Crimea, Ukraine.

These places are famous as the Ukrainian Mediterranean, because of its unforgetable climate. The main sea resorts around are Yalta, Livadia, Gurzuf, Alupka.
If you ever been in Greece, then you can imagine this place, with the only one difference - the mountains are much greener, and the temperature a bit lower,during the summer, in the shade, no more than +40C maximum. With Greece this site links not only the climate but also a history. Greeks actually founded this place and named it Livadia.
The modern palace of Livadia was built in 1911 , for just a record term - one and a half year. It is shining its white marble colors under the sun, and from everywhere around near the palace have a fantastic view over the Black Sea. Which is, btw, not black at all, but has a clear warm water :)
Nowadays Livadia Palace is used as a museum, you can visit it and its courtyard, also it is still using for a hight level summits, such as every year "Yes" - Yalta European Strategy - summit.

Travel to Livadia, which is near Yalta sea resort, and you will love these places. Best time to go is the summer. The aroma of nature around - cypresses, junipers, endless flowers, will make you feel drunk even without a wine.

Greece. PhotoGallery

2011-09-20T17:28:00.014+03:00

Discover and enjoy of a wonderful Greek COLORS , once you saw it - you won't forgot those magic views, beautiful nature, ancient sites and friendly people, which will care you and warm you not worse than hot greek sun under what are shining three, pure as a tear, greek seas...

Feel the spirit of history, simply by driving in the athenian metro among the ancient temples...Because Greece is a museum itself, you always will find a place to spend time - whatever you prefer - make a photos at some historic site or just relax on one of the beautiful beaches on inland or on islands!

Cyprus. Overview

2011-09-11T17:49:00.005+03:00

Cyprus lies at the crossroads between East and West. For centuries it was inhabited by numerous, dissimilar peoples and cultures, and in our days on the island Greeks and Turks are owners. The magnitude of Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean.

In Cyprus, all there for everyone. Lovers of sun and discotheques fill Limassol, Ayia Napa and Protaras. The island to the other guests will also appreciate the quiet coves Chrysochou Bay, Troodos Mountains and the disputed territory of Northern Cyprus. And fans of antiques can see the ancient Greek story of his own eyes: a mythical "Baths of Aphrodite" in the vicinity of the Policy, Mount Olympus, a stroll through the narrow streets, which once went by Leonardo da Vinci and the Apostle Paul.

Cyprus - a popular holiday destination of many Europeans. Here, wonderful climate, golden sandy beaches, untouched nature and friendly village. Indeed, this island of love and beauty, sung by Homer in his great "Odyssey."

Climate

Cyprus - the island is hot and dry Mediterranean. Mediterranean climate: summers are hot and dry, winters are mild and rainy. The heat comes in May. The sea is warm from late May to October. From June to September, almost never rains.

Entry. Customs regulations

Cyprus is a visa country.

During the passport control you will be asked to show a return ticket, medical insurance and a voucher for travel services. Foreign currency can be imported without restrictions (if the sum is greater than 1000 euro, it should declare). No fee can bring 200 cigarettes (250 grams of tobacco), 0.75 liters of wine, 0.3 eau de toilette. Allowed duty-free import and export of photo and movie cameras, sporting goods Import of weapons, drugs, radios. The export of antiques - only with the permission of the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia.

Time

GMT +2

Currency and tips

From January 2008 the euro in Cyprus is used. Change currency, both in cash and traveler's checks in Cyprus can be at any bank and at airports. Visa Credit Cards are accepted at most banks and card American Express - are accepted. Better not get cash from ATMs - this is unprofitable.

Tipping. 10% service charge is usually included in the bill in most restaurants in the Greek part of Cyprus (south), so give "tea" is not necessary. Small tip will please porters and barbers and taxi drivers also in the south. Northern Cyprus has a percentage of the service include the account only in the most expensive restaurants, so the waiters to leave a tip.

Transport

Bus service. Buses carry passengers, as between cities and within cities. There is also a minibus, designed for 4-8 passengers. In the south they travel between cities with a half-hour intervals. Public holidays shuttle does not work.

Taxi. Urban taxis operate around the clock. Orders are accepted over the phone, there are special parking. All taxis are usually equipped with meters. After midnight the higher tariff acts. For every luggage weighing over 12 kg have to pay.

Car hire. Renting a car can be over the age of 21, having a driver's license of the country. Drivers under 25 with less than 3 years must inform the rental agency to obtain insurance for minors. In Cyprus, the left-hand drive.

Phone

Code of Cyprus - 357. Codes the major cities of Nicosia -2 -5 Limassol, Larnaca - 4, Paphos - 6, -3 Ayia Napa, Protaras 3.

International calls will cost less if calling from the machine. Phone card can be purchased at post offices. In the north, instead of coins used tokens. Calls from the hotel are quite expensive.

Mode of operation of banks and shops
Banks are open weekdays from 8:15 to 12:30. Many banks in tourist areas are open in the afternoon from Tuesday to Friday. At international airports, banks, tend to work around the clock.

Shopping hours - from 7:30 to 13:30 and from 16:00 to 19:00. On Wednesday and Saturday shops are open only from 8:00 to 13:00. Day off - Sunday.

Cuisinne

Traditional Cypriot cuisine is Mediterranean and Eastern origin, with some traces of British influence. It assumes that, at least fifteen dishes that make up the so-called meze: various salads, vegetables, snacks, hot dishes of meat or fish. In every tavern you can order fish or meat meze. Some restaurants specialize only in fish dishes: barbunya - red mullet in foil; kalimari - squid, cut into rings, usually boiled octopus in red wine.

Some Cypriot dishes: avgolemona - chicken soup with rice, egg and lemon; musakas - potatoes, minced meat, eggplant and other vegetables, well seasoned spices and then baked in a souffle with eggs and grated cheese, kebab or suflakiya - lamb, roasted on a spit over a smoldering charcoal (served in thin slices between two tortillas) Tawas - a meat dish with onions and other vegetables (served in hot pot). Sweets: Baklava, kadaifi (sweet rolls in white shell), Turkish delight.

Shopping and souvenirs

In the markets you can buy cheap stuff, but the price of branded products at a European level.

In Cyprus you can bring home a little napkin of lefkariyskogo lace, Suzuki - a traditional Cypriot sweets, a bottle of Commandaria (which is a cross between a sweet wine, and liquor). Unusually good woven goods and pottery from Fiti of Kornosa as well as gold and silver jewelry.

Turkey. Overview.

2011-09-06T17:59:00.021+03:00

TURKEY. This amazing country cozily nestled between Europe and Asia, has incorporated the specific characteristics of both continents. Sultan palaces, ancient Trojan settlement, lively bazaars, mosques and minarets, temples of Apollo and Athena here ... The spirit of ancient civilizations. But nature has its wonders, which can be found everywhere - caves, volcanoes, lakes, springs, spectacular mountain scenery. Coast of Turkey - a paradise for true relaxation. Modern resort of Antalya, Kemer, Belek, Side and Alanya are known worldwide, as well as Turkish sweets. The best beaches for kids located in Alanya, Kemer and Side. Most tourists opt west of the country, attracted by the magic of Istanbul, the longest and clean coastlines in the Mediterranean. Turkey offers a holiday for everyone: the knowledge of culture and tradition, familiarity with the monuments and treatment in thermal springs. Coastal resorts have a full set of water sports. And you can just lie on the beach, soak up the gentle rays of the sun and admire the sunset, which call the harbor sailboats.

The charm of Turkey as infinite as the magic of fairy tales "1001 Nights".

Climate

The climate in Turkey is very diverse: from the center of the country in continental to subtropical on the west and south coast. Best time to visit Turkey - May to October. In the Mediterranean resort areas, 300 days a year the sun shines.

Entry. Customs regulations
At the entrance of Turkey visa is issued at the airport of arrival (30 USD or 20 Euros). Allowed to import duty free 200 cigarettes and 50 cigars, 5 bottles of wine or other drinks in 1 liter, or 7 to 0.75 liter. The import of: drugs, drugs containing a large quantity of drugs, all kinds of weapons and ammunition. The export of arms and ammunition, narcotics, antiques. VCR, camcorder, jewelry at the entry you want to write on the declaration (with the obligation to re-export).

Time

GMT +2

Currency and tips
1 USD = 1,518,66 TRL (10.02.2010)
1 EUR = 2,077,45 TRL

The currency in Turkey - New Turkish Lira (YTL).

There are banknotes of 1 to 100 YTL, coins from a hen (1 hen - a hundredth of a lyre) and 1 lira. Private exchange offices often offer a more favorable rate than banks and hotels. Keep exchange receipts, they will be useful in the reverse exchange pounds into foreign currency. Traveler's checks are easily exchanged at banks and hotels. If you wish to check the road, rely on such global companies as American Express and Thomas Cook.

Tipping - accepted in the Turkish form of payment for services. Typically, you should add 10% of the total bill in a restaurant, a dollar - for small services, such as luggage at the hotel. A small reward will be happy and masseuse.

Transport

Buses. The most popular means of communication within Turkey. Intercity bus lines (some regional companies) relate to each other almost every major city in the coast. Buses leave almost every hour, with fares relatively low. Buses in Turkey are comfortable, with air conditioning, smoking is prohibited. Tickets are sold at bus stations.

Public transport. The city has dolmushi (dolmus) - Turkish taxi, with the fixed cost of travel and stopping at certain points. It can be stopped in the street or found at sites that are located at regular intervals. Destination indicated on the roof or on a plate in the front window.

Taxi. Taxis are equipped with meters. The trip is inexpensive. Within the city - the fare charged by the meter. Over long distances - a solid rate. For going on tours you can hire a taxi for the day. As the tip passed round the amount up to a round figure. At night, the rate increased by 50%.

Rent a car. Expensive. You need only lay claim to international standard and a passport. Persons under 21 car rentals are not provided. The cost of car rental per day depending on car class. Rent is organized in all tourist centers. The international agencies, "Eurocar", "Avis", "Hertz" prices are higher than local firms, but their services more efficiently. Insurance is required. Do not exceed the speed limit. Do not drive drunk. Always use safety belts. Be prepared for the inspection of documents produced by the police. Bring documents to the car, law, insurance, or copies thereof. In urban areas the rate should not exceed 50 km / h on the highway - 90 km / h on motorways - 120 km / hour.

Phone
Communication during the day is pretty cheap (8:00-20:00). From a pay phone can only call by telephone plastic cards (sold at post offices, newsstands and some shops). To call on your country home- to dial 00, then your country's code, the area code and phone number. Cheaper to call from a pay phone than from the hotel.

Mode of operation of banks and shops
Banks: Monday-Friday, 8:30-12:00 13:30-17:00 used.
Shops: Monday-Saturday 9:00-19:00.

Cuisine
Turkish cuisine is considered one of the best in the world. Turks - are big fans of appetizers (meze), mostly cold: lettuce, feta cheese, beans and rice in grape leaves, stuffed tomatoes or peppers. 101 is prepared dish of eggplant! Ideal for vegetarians Berek - tiny articles thin dough whose fibers are shifted cheese and herbs. Favorite meat - lamb. It is used for well-known shish kebab and doner kebab, meatballs - kefte. Also made from beef, veal, poultry, except for the exclusion of Muslims pork. Garnish usually rice - pilaf, often it is served with pine nuts, raisins, spices and salads. In Turkey, the abundance of fish and seafood. Dessert, in addition to fresh fruit and ice cream, all very sweet: pudding, flavored with rose water, sweets or honey on the basis decorated with nuts. Turkish national drink is tea, which is usually served in small cups. Turkish coffee is usually drunk after a meal and never diluted with milk.

Shopping and souvenirs. In Turkey, a wide selection of jewelry made of semiprecious stones, gold and silver, copper products, ceramics with traditional floral motifs. Very nice leather and suede. You can also buy a variety of spices and Turkish sweets. In the bazaars can and should bargain, reducing the price by about a third of the original.

Italy - Overview

2011-09-06T17:19:00.004+03:00

Italy - it is one of the most amazing and attractive country for tourism. In Italy, holds about 60% of the cultural values of Europe, almost every Italian city is a veritable outdoor museum. In addition to the countless cultural relics and ruins of ancient Roman civilization, the country has tremendous natural resources. This is - white slopes of the Alps, fragrant vegetation numerous parks and gardens, beautiful beaches and enchanting lakes.

Oceanside Italy extends 7500 km and a population of about 5,000-equipped beaches, marinas and 40,000 berths for yachts and ships, as well as a huge number of hotels of various categories and restaurants.

Climate
The climate in Italy is typically Mediterranean. Alps cover from the cold winds and ocean currents carry moisture. Precipitation is a little bit. The hottest months - July and August, the average summer temperature is +28 C. Winter is rather mild. The average winter temperature is +10 C

Entry. Customs regulations

the flag of Italy

Persons aged over 17 years arriving from countries outside the EU customs zone is allowed duty free import of 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco, up to 1 liter of liquor (alcohol content over 22%) or up to 2 liters dessert wines and liqueurs (alcohol content less than 22%) of table wine - up to 2 liters, less than 500 grams of coffee (for persons over 15 years) and 100 grams of tea, 50 ml of perfume and 250ml eau de toilette, as well as goods personal use and gifts at the rate of up to 175 euros for one adult and up to 90 euro - per child under the age of 15 years. The import and export of local and foreign currency are no limits. You can freely take up to 10 thousand euros or the equivalent in other currencies.

Currency and tips

By January 2002, Italy has completely passed on European currency - the euro. In the wide use of credit cards and travelers checks. Cheques are accepted in various currencies.

Tipping. In some restaurants a tip of 10% -15% is automatically included in the account (servizio - service), in others it is not accepted. Carefully browse through. If the cost of service is not included, leave a 06.01 euros, depending on the level of service and total. In the taxi to be rounded up to the whole amount of euros or add a couple of euros, if the driver has had a service you need. Also expect to tip a porter in hotels, porters at airports and train stations.

Transport

Metro. In major Italian cities (Rome, Milan, Naples) is a subway (Metropolitana). They are convenient to use when traveling long distances. Tickets are sold in vending machines at each station and are valid over an hour, there are also one day tickets that allow you to use all modes of public transport.

Bus routes. Tickets are sold at newspaper and tobacco shops, bars. Coupon must be validated at the bus stop or in the cabin, after which it is valid for one hour.

Water transport. Major cities along the Amalfi Coast ferries ply. This type of transport often turns out to be faster than the bus. The only means of public transport in Venice - river buses (vaporetto). The most scenic route number 1 - the Grand Canal. Also are popular river taxi, and of course the gondola.

Taxi. Taxi (yellow car with a sign servizio pubblico) expensive. In addition, margins are taken (25%) over night trip (from 22:00 to 7:00), luggage, holiday trips (30%), as well as for travel on Sundays and holidays. Taxi advisable to order by phone or by using the nearest parking lot.

Car hire. In Italy, expensive to rent a car. If you take a rental car, make sure its good and there is insurance in case of accident. You must have international driving license and credit cards. The greater the rental period, the lower the daily cost.

Phone

To pay for telephone calls using coins or phone cards that are sold in bars, coffee and tobacco kiosks. After 20:30 tariffs are much lower. In Italy, all telephone calls are paid, including the city. Call off the street is cheaper than the hotel.

Mode of operation of banks and shops

Banks. Advantageous to change money at banks, they are open seven days a week (except weekends and public holidays) until 12:00. On the streets of sufficient cash machines and no problems with credit cards. The most unfavorable exchange - in hotels.

Shops. Usually work from 8:30 or 9:00 to 18:00 or 20:00. Lunch breaks are long enough. As a rule, from 13:00 to 15:00 in summer and 16:00.

Kitchen

Italian cuisine is very diverse. Must try to rasp Venetian shrimp, «carpaccio», Roman veal roast, Milanese 'risotto'. The most popular is "paste" - it's spaghetti, lasagne, pasta, etc. They served countless sauces. Worth a try real Italian pizza. Italians have no equal in the manufacture of ice cream and coffee.

In many places you can offer a tourist menu at a fixed price, but the choice of dishes at the same time is very limited.

Greece. Overview

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Greece, the cradle of European civilization - is not only Athens, Sparta, Olympia, and other famous cities of mainland Greece, but also the 3000 islands and islets, known and unknown, that has its antiquities, its eventful history, its legends. Here you will find solitude and quiet, fantastic nature, sea, sun, fun and dancing. As well as sports, scuba diving, boat and much more.

Climate Greece is a Mediterranean climate zone: hot and dry summer, which is refreshing trade winds and mild winters. The climate in Crete and Rhodes is one of the most healthy and soft in Europe. Opportune time for the trip to Greece - the end of March - mid-June or early September - late October. Customs regulations

At the border could check the availability of money to stay in the country. Allowed duty-free import and export basic commodities in the following amounts: 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine (those over 18 years), 75 ml of perfume or eau de toilette 375 ml. The import of drugs and medicines (with the exception of a limited number of drugs prescribed by a doctor), antiques, guns. Severe restrictions on the export from the country of objects of historic or cultural value.

Time UTC +2

Currency and tips Monetary unit - euro. Change currency on the mainland and the islands is very simple. As a rule, the most profitable bank exchange rate. During the exchange procedure takes 1-2% of the amount. The most common credit cards in Greece - Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club. Tipping. In restaurants, service is always included in the bill, but, nevertheless, tipping - they usually make up 10-15% of the total cost. Taxi drivers, porters and maids in hotels, will also be happy to tip.

Coming soon - CITIES & RESORTS of Greece...