A row of cottages in Bibury, Cottswolds, England. (June 2007 by David Iliff)*

If you are interested in a UK vacation with a difference, consider doing it walking around the country. There are a myriad of places to visit in this beautiful country and a trail to suit every level of fitness. Some are easy outings for a few hours, with comfortable walks of just a few kilometres. Others last for a few days; some of these are more taxing and require some level of fitness, especially where negotiating hills or mountain hiking is concerned. Trails are classified according to levels of difficulty, from One Boot Trails, meaning very easy, mostly level walking, to Four Boot, meaning quite difficult and strenuous.

For something off the beaten track, choose trails that are not classified as national trails, as these are the more popular choices and also the more crowded ones. With the Celtic Kerry Footsteps, one will experience a cultural tour of Ireland. This is an organised tour lasting some days, with stay-overs arranged at hotels along the way and includes Killarney National Park.

Scotland offers a Walking, Wildlife and Whisky guided trail with some interesting destinations not usually visited by tourists. For the fitter hiker, the fifteen highest Welsh mountain peaks are a challenge of a different kind. Groups are generally small and guides are knowledgeable and friendly. The Black Mountains of South Wales and the Berwyns in North Wales are two alternative destinations in this beautiful corner of the UK.

The Stratford to Oxford walk is one of the popular hotel-to-hotel trails, something which any walkers could do on their own. These would be self-guided tours, although there is much information and enough detailed route guides and maps available to make these walking trips easy without any guide. The Cotswolds also offer many opportunities for independent walkers to cover the area. The Eden Valley in Yorkshire is an unspoilt paradise not known to the general tourist, as is the majestic Westmorland Plateau to the West.

The Derbyshire Dales offer Nordic walking, a different experience altogether. Beginners are also catered for on some of these outings. The Shropshire Hills offer a beauty of their own for groups or single hikers. Strolling and exploring the Shropshire castles, forts and churches presents the hiker interested in unusual buildings with a different view, as does visiting Derbyshire`s country houses.

These walking tours are not the usual fare for visitors staying in <a href=”http://www.secrethotelsrevealed.co.uk/london-top-secret-hotels“>secret hotels in London</a> – but that is exactly the attraction of wandering off the beaten track.

*Image via Wikipedia–http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bibury_Cottages_in_the_Cotswolds_-_June_2007.jpg–released under the GNU Free Documentation License

Havana is a city of music. Live music can be found in practically any bar or restaurant in Havana from about 12 noon on throughout into the night and early hours of the morning. Many of the clubs actually have matinee and afternoon performances as well as late night shows, allowing those travelers who are habitual early birds and don’t want to stay up all night a chance to experience as much of Cuba’s good music as the night owls.

Restaurants and bars don’t usually charge a cover charge even if they have live music, but the musicians do “pass the hat” for tips and virtually all groups have CDs for sale.

Some of the best clubs, cabarets and venues for Cuban musical performances to be found in Havana are listed below. These clubs and cabarets do charge a cover for entrance over and above food and beverages consumed.

Casa de la Musica, Miramar – Calle 20, at the corner of Calle 35, Miramar. Tel. (537) 204-0447, 202-6147. Both matinee and nightly performances of some of the best old favorites and up-and-coming recording artists in Cuba today. Under the aegis of EGREM recording studios.

Casa de la Musica, Galiano y Neptuno, Centro Habana – Tel: (537) 862-4165, 860-8296
Nighttime Program for las Casas de la Musica: http://www.egrem.com.cu

La Tropicana Cabaret – Calle 72 No. 4504 and Calle 43, Marianao, Havana. Open: Tuesday thru’ Sunday 9 pm to 2 am. A flamboyant show performed on an open-air stage featuring troupes of exotic dance routines and quality performances – an extremely popular and engrossing presentation. The cabaret dates from 1939. Tel: (537) 267-1717.

La Parisienne Cabaret, Hotel Nacional, Calles 21 and O, Vedado. Much along the lines of La Tropicana, the Parisienne Club also opens at 9 pm with a spectacular, colorful and entertaining musical show. Tel. (537) 873-4701.

Havana Cuba Hotels | Varadero Cuba Hotels

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Buenos Aires is an extensive and important port city located near the mouth of the Rio de la Plata, or River Plate, of South America. A visit to this city will be full of culture, music, great food and wine. Prepare yourself and get to know a bit about the various areas of greatest interest to the visitor of this fascinating spot, which include the neighborhoods of Centro (Monserrat and San Nicolas), La Boca, Palermo, Puerto Madero and San Telmo..

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Centro (Monserrat / San Nicolás)

The neighborhoods of Monserrat and San Nicolás together form the the core and true commercial and downtown area of Buenos Aires, home to many government offices, private financial and commercial institutions, stores, theatres, restaurants and hotels. The pedestrians-only Calle Florida is shared between Monserrat and the Retiro area. Av. Corrientes Avenue is known for its bookstores, theatres and show rooms, pizza parlors and coffee shops. 9 de Julio Avenue is one of the world’s widest boulevards. In this sector are found such landmarks as the Plaza de Mayo, La Casa Rosada [Pink House], the Obelisk and the central offices of Government, the Teatros Colón and Liceo, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

Central Hotels: Melia Hotel Buenos Aires, Nh Lancaster Hotel Buenos Aires , Nh City & Tower Hotel Buenos Aires, Sheraton Libertador Hotel Buenos Aires

Metropolitan Cathedral – On the corner of San Martin and Rivadavia streets, the Cathedral’s 12 columns represent the 12 apostles of Christ. Of note are the intricate floor mosaics, the frescoes in the nave by Italian painter, Pablo Parisi, the majestic main altar and the elaborate tomb of San Martin, Argentina’s greatest hero. Guided tours are available.

Casa de Gobierno (La Casa Rosada) [Pink House] – Located on Balcarce Street No. 50, the Pink House has figured as Argentina’s house of government since the 1810, first obtaining it pink color by order of President Sarmiento in 1873. Every two hours from 7 am to 7 pm, one can watch the ceremony of the changing of the guards or granaderos.

Museo de la Ciudad [Museum of the City] – Located on Alsina No. 412, this museum documents the development of the Buenos Aires during the colonial era. It is open weekdays from 11am to 7 pm and Sundays 3pm to 7pm.

Café Tortoni – Av. De Mayo No. 829. Buenos Aires’ oldest and most prestigious café, the Café Tortoni has been in existence since 1858. Notable for its art nouveau décor, this café has been frequented by such patrons as Josephine Baker, Arthur Rubinstein, Jorge Luis Borges and Carlos Gardel.

The Obelisk – Located on 9 de Julio Avenue, one of the world’s widest boulevards, the Obelisk was erected in 1936 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the Spanish to the mouth of the River Plate and the founding of first settlement from which grew Buenos Aires. It stands 67 meters in height and in its interior rises a 202-step wrought iron staircase.

Teatro Colón [Columbus Theatre] – Opened to the public in 1908 for opera, ballet and musical recitals and presentations, Teatro Colon has been favorably compared, in terms of acoustic quality and beauty, to Milan’s La Scala. The carvings, chandeliers, artwork, sculptures and general décor of the halls and salons, punctuated by carved columns, gilded cornices, balconies and mirrors, are immensely impressive.

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La Boca

This neighborhood formed the first port area of Buenos Aires and was settled in large part by Italian immigrants between 1880 and the 1930s who worked as port workers and sailors. These immigrants brought with them their own dialect and their own style, including their own type of housing, preferring low, brightly painted wooden structures that were capable of being built on piles to escape the frequent flooding waters of the river.

In 1870 La Boca was awarded official jurisdictional neighborhood status and shortly thereafter certain young members of the barrio attempted to declare La Boca an independent republic, and action which was foiled by the intervention of President Julio A. Roca. Nevertheless, La Boca retains its independent style and is one of the cities most picturesque and unique neighborhood, full of color, life and music.

Calle Caminito [Caminito Street] – A short pedestrian street framed by multi-colored walls covered in murals, hanging plants, balconies and laundry hung to dry on clotheslines. Artists and artisans set up shop in this street daily from 10am to 6pm, selling their wares to tourists and passersby.

La Boca Fine Arts Museum – located on Av. Pedro de Mendoza No. 1835, La Boca. Exhibits only the works of Argentine painters, sculptors and craftspeople. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 5:45 pm.

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Palermo

Palermo is a pleasant, tranquil, wooded area of Buenos Aires with many parks and streets lined with flowering jacaranda and magnolia trees, and a number of monuments and buildings of note as well as several stately mansions now housing embassies and museums. It is picturesque and rich in culture as well as gastronomy, with a number of excellent restaurants and bars to recommend it, particularly in the area of Old Palermo (Soho and Hollywood).

Parque Tres de Febrero (also called Bosques de Palermo), 25 hectares of gardens and greenery, with rose garden, lake, bike paths, fountains and statues, is located in the Palermo neighborhood and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike searching for a bit of nature in the big city.

Museo de Motivos Argentinos José Hernández [Jose Hernandez Argentine Motifs Museum] - Located on Av. del Libertador 2373, this museum is dedicated to the folkloric arts and crafts of the

country. Open Wednesday through Friday, 1 pm to 7 pm; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, 3 pm to 7 pm

Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) [Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires] – Address: Figueroa Alcorta 3415. Private collection Argentinian Eduardo Constantini, in which are to be found works by Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Fernando Botero and Antonio Seguí, among many others.

Botanical Gardens – The gardens cover 7 hectares and hold botanical specimens from all parts of the globe. The gardens are punctuated by sculptures and fountains and hold a library, Botanical Museum, greenhouse and a gardening school. Main entrance is at Santa Fe 3951. Hours 8 am to 6 pm daily.

Zoo – A picturesque zoo dating from 1975 in which the animals are housed in quarters reminiscent of the architecture styles of their native countries (not necessarily natural habitats!). Access is gained by gates at the intersections of Av. Gral. Las Heras and Av. Sarmiento, Av. Libertador and Av. Sarmiento. Visiting hours are 10 am to 7 pm.

Palermo Hotels: Esplendor Palermo Soho Hotel Buenos Aires, 1551 Palermo Boutique Hotel Buenos Aires, Palermo Apartment Hotel Buenos Aires, Ayres De Palermo Hotel Buenos Aires

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Puerto Madero

Dating from 1887, Puerto Madero was originally developed as an international port for overseas traffic but was soon overwhelmed by the heavy demand of trade to and from Buenos Aires and was converted to a river traffic port. The docks and port area, defined by four dikes and intervening water channels, has since been refurbished and renovated as a touristic / commercial complex housing excellent restaurants, shops, offices, apartments, movie theatres and discotheques, as well as being the headquarters of the Yacht Club Puerto Madero and Argentine Yacht Club.

Museum Frigate Presidente Sarmiento – Anchored at Dike 3, the frigate Presidente Sarmiento was brought from England in 1898 and served as a training vessel from 1899 through 1938. Visiting hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 8 pm. Saturdays and Sundays 9:00 am to 10 pm.

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Recoleta

A high-class, very European area of the city full of large and elaborate mansions and private residences, excellent and popular restaurants, bistros and sidewalk cafes, and a number of exclusive shops and designer outlets. On weekends the area bustles with an open air arts and crafts fair.

Iglesia Nuestra Señora del Pilar [church] – Constructed in the 1700’s for the Barefoot Recoleto Friars, an order of Spanish Franciscan monks, this church has been declared a National Historical Monument.

Recoleta Cemetery – This elaborate cemetery, dating from 1822, is the resting place of Argentina’s most illustrious citizens. The sometimes massive mausoleums and tombs show colonial, neoclassical and baroque influences and one can spend hours wandering the treed paths between the vaults. Gates are open from 9 am to 7 pm.

National Museum of Fine Arts Museum (MNBA) – Located on Av. del Libertador 1473, this museum houses, in its 32 permanent exhibit show rooms, Argentine artworks of the 19th and 20th centuries as well as those of a number of prominent international artists including Van Gogh, Manet, Degas, Goya and Renoir, as well as a temporary exhibit pavilion and gift shops. Open Tuesday through Sunday.

Recoleta Hotels:

• Ker Recoleta Hotel & Spa Buenos Aires
• Belle Suites Recoleta Buenos Aires
• Howard Johnson Hotel Boutique Recoleta…
• Melia Recoleta Plaza Boutique Hotel…
• Urban Suites Recoleta Buenos Aires
• Ayres De Recoleta Apartments Buenos Aires

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Retiro

The Retiro area is home to the central train and bus stations, with their comings and goings of travelers to and from the National Capital, as well as a plethora of large hotels, apartment buildings and plazas. This area is well-frequented by the tourist and shopper, with stores and outlets offering crafts, leather, jewelry, designer clothing and much more. Calle Florida, which runs all the way from Plaza San Martin into the San Nicolas area, is a busy pedestrian street lined with stores and commercial outlets selling products of all kinds.

Pacific Galleries – shopping mall in an intricately decorated and domed building originally designed in 1889 to house shops though for several years, as of 1908, it served as the offices of the Buenos Aires Railroad. The dome, which was added in the 1940’s when the building was again converted to a shopping mall, displays murals by Argentine and foreign artists. Located in the block bordered by Córdoba, Florida, San Martín and Viamonte streets

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San Telmo

A quaint and typical residential neighborhood of the city which, in the late 1800’s after a yellow fever outbreak swept through this part of the city, was taken over by craftsmen and artists who converted the larger mansions into multi-family dwellings and workshops. This is where to go to find antiques and fine handcrafts; it’s cobblestone streets are riddled with small storefronts and art dealers and antiquarians. Enjoy a coffee, beer or full meal in any of the cafes and restaurants in the Plaza Colonel Manuel Dorrego, one of the cities oldest and most typical squares in the heart of San Telmo.

San Telmo Fair – This takes place every Sunday in Plaza Colonel Manuel Dorrego between 10 am and 5 pm. Besides a fabulous array of antiques, you’ll also be regaled with the talents of tango dancers and musicians and the products of metal workers, leather workers, jewelers, woodcarvers and a plethora of other arts and crafts.

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The beautiful, sunny Algarve coastlines of Portugal attract millions of tourists each year, most of which are British. Despite this invasion of tourists, the area is mostly unspoiled, maintaining its charm, charisma and vibrant local culture. Although most tourists are there mainly for the climate and beaches (sun, sea, sand and surf), there is a very distinctive and rare culture that has remained unaffected by the streams of foreign visitors that should definitely be explored by the more adventurous tourist.

The Portuguese have their own distinct style of cooking, which is surprisingly different from that of Spain, despite their proximity. The Algarve, although located within Portugal, has managed to keep its identity with regional specialities different to the rest of the country, based primarily on seafood and other meats and vegetables produced on local farms by local people. This region was originally dominated by the fishing industry and is still inhabited by fishermen who provide an abundance of fresh fish daily. Main meals are usually based on sardines, tuna, cockles, clams and other shellfish, as the thriving coastline provides high quality seafood all year round. Regional specialities include slow grilled red mullet, razor clams, octopus, squid or cuttlefish (both cooked in ink), bean stew with whelks and fish stew-there are many more and all are worth a try!

Don`t worry if you`re not a lover of seafood, as there is a wide variety of other meat specialities available too! Sautéed or grilled steak “bife à Portuguesa” is a local favourite and usually cooked in port wine sauce, along with the kebab “espetadas” which is marinated in wine and garlic. Pork is also widely eaten in this region, as local farming practices allow the pigs to consume the acorns and white truffles spread across the farming region of Alentejo, so don`t miss the “carne de porco a alentajana”-diced pork marinated with red peppers and clams. Delicious!

In case your taste buds aren`t tingling yet, there`s still more! From chicken, turkey, partridge and even pigeon can be found on this vibrant menu, the most famous of which is “Piri Piri chicken”.

Portuguese wines are renowned and it is worth trying local wineries or asking the opinions of local people to find out recommended wines. Most people favour the red wines on offer however the Algarve itself is not usually deemed the best region for wines in Portugal (for wines, try the neighbouring region of Alentejo). “Vinho Verde” is Portugal`s own unique white wine, as well as “Planalto Douro Reserva” and “Casa de Pacos” are all widely recommended.

Try restaurants such as the Papagaio at Vale de Lobo Praça and Caniço in Prainha, as well as smaller local establishments, in order to get a feel for the diverse culture and taste the best local dishes. Tapas and wine bars are a must, such as “Meu Limao” in Lagos and if you try back streets or local fishing villages you might find your very own tiny tapas restaurant with it`s own individual amazing delights on the menu.

There are plenty of holiday packages available for both the “tanning tourists” and the “adventurers”, including wine tasting weekends, so why not plan your tasty Algarve holiday today and treat your taste buds to the trip of a lifetime?!

• Albufeira Hotels
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Capoeira Beyond Brazil

Brazil’s Living Museum: Race, Reform, and Tradition in Bahia

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The state capital, Salvador, is a colonial jewel which, from 1549 through 1763, served as Brazil’s first colonial capital, settled in large part by African slaves whose descendants now form up to about 80% of the current population. It lies on All Saints Bay (Bahia de Todos os Santos), Brazil’s largest, encompassing some 400 islands with the best snorkeling and diving sites in the country, many of which are shipwreck sites teeming with aquatic life.

Salvador, also known as the “City of Joy”, abounds with expressions of art, music & dance and other aspects and manifestations of the Afro-Brazilian culture. It is the place to enjoy the movements of Capoeira – which looks akin to a rhythmic and ballet-like precision form of kick-boxing – and the rhythm of the Berimbau, a one-stringed, bow-like instrument which uses a gourd and the player’s belly as it’s sound chamber

Salvador da Bahia Hotels

Sightseeing in Salvador da Bahia

Salvador has a proud heritage and a wealth of colonial architecture, churches and museums to explore. In 1985, Salvador Historical center was inscribed into the UNESCO World Heritage site list. Here are some of Salvador’s most interesting sites to visit:

Lacerda Elevator – This tower with four electric lifts provides access between the High and Low areas of town (Cidade Baixa and Cidade Alta) and fabulous panoramic views of Salvador from it’s top. It is 74 meters in height.

Rio Branco Palace – This elaborate and imposing government palace holds a number of art works.

The Archbishop’s Palace dates from the early 18th C. and housed Brazil‘s Archbishop, with a beautiful and elaborate baroque-style frontispiece.

Afro-Brazilian Museum, Pelourinho – Features permanent exhibitions of African and Afro-Brazilian arts and crafts, relics, historical documents and artifacts related to the Afro-Brazilian culture. Located in the old Faculty of Medicine on Terreiro de Jesus.

Solar do Ferrão – This building currently holds the Artistic and Cultural Heritage Institute of Bahia and the Abelardo Rodrigues Museum with its collection of religious relics.

Casa de Jorge Amado – this foundation showcases life and works of Jorge Amado, Bahia’s best known author. Location: Largo do Pelourinho 51, Pelourinho.
Free admission.

Museu da Cidade – features artifacts, art, furniture, sculpture, documents and photos showcasing the history and culture of the city as it grew through history. Address: Largo do Pelourinho No. 3

Mercado Modelo – Great market housed in the location of what was the customs building and slave warehouse which was racked by fire in both 1969 and 1983. Rebuilt in its original 19th C. style, it offers trade goods, arts and crafts, tourist mementos and souvenirs of the area, restaurants and bars. Locataed at Praça Cayru, near the Lacerda elevator, Cidade Baixa

Solar do Unhão – Waterfront complex built in the 17th C as residence for the Chief Justice, Pedro do Unhão Castelo Branco. Features courtyard, aqueduct and fountain, the Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, pier and sugar mill. The main building was restored to hold Bahia’s Museum of Modern Art.

Museum Carlos Costa Pinto – Features a collection by Carlos Costa Pinto of goods, furniture, silverware and traditional articles from the city’s founding families. The Museum is housed in Costa Pinto family mansion.

Porto da Barra, Pereira’s Villa – Port area which was the only area in which small craft could land safely without being pounded against surrounding reefs. Fort Santa Maria and Fort São Diogo at the entrance to the port, protected it from invaders.

Santo Antônio Além do Carmo Fort – Built as protection for the northern access to the city in the latter part of the 17th C.

São Marcelo Fort, or Fort of the Sea – Round fort built in the harbor in the 1600′s by Felipe Guiton, it was called the “Bellybutton of Bahia” by Jorge Amado.

Fort of Santo Antônio da Barra – The city’s first fort constructed to protect the entrance to Todos os Santos Bay. The irregular 10-sided polygon held Bahia’s first lighthouse (wooden) which was replaced in 1836 and is currently run by electricity. The fort offers a restaurant/bar and Nautical Museum.

Nossa Senhora de Mont Serrat Fort – Considered the most beautiful and harmoniously built military construction of Brazil, the fort hold a weapons museum and also offers theatrical simulations of the conquest and re-conquest of 1624.

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Hungary, also known as the “Country of the Magyars“, is located Central Europe.

Hungary’s terrain consists mainly low plains with rolling hills and plenty of water. It has no seacoasts but does encompass Lake Balaton – Central Europe’s largest lake – known to the Magyars as the “Hungarian Sea”. The country and capital city of Budapest is split by the major waterway of the Danube River, Buda being situated on one bank of the river and Pest on the other. The country lays claim to Hévíz Spa which is the world’s largest thermal lake, and within Hungary’s borders there are in excess of 1,000 hot and mineral springs with a capacity for more than 300,000 visitors simultaneously. These are to be found all over the country, in the larger cities such as Budapest as well as smaller town and outlying villages including Bük, Balf, Hajdúszoboszló, Debrecen, Gyula, Sárvár, and Zalakaros. All watersports, including kayaking, windsurfing and sailing, are popular recreational activities for both locals and visitors.

Hungarian food is outstanding and hearty. Almost everyone worldwide is acquainted with one form or another of Goulash (Gulyás) and other stews and thick soups very often flavored with sweet or spicy paprika. Popular dishes include stuffed cabbage leaves (Töltött káposzta), meat stews (Pörkölt) and a rich cake layered with chocolate with a hard caramel glaze called Dobos Torta. The Tokay wines of of Tokaj foothill wine country are appreciated world-wide.

Hungarian music is rich in the haunting tones and rhythms of the Cimbalom and Violin. The Táncháztalálkozó Festival (Dance House or Tanchaz Festival) takes place in Budapest annually. The Sziget Festival, also held in Budapest every summer, is a major musical and cultural Festival venue in Europe.

Visitors to Hungary can enjoy tours of the country’s several World Heritage sites, it’s historic castles and country mansions, the rolling wine country, the shores and traditions of the Lake Balaton area and the entire range of incredible and colorful variety of experiences offered at every turn.

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As in many of the older and more historic parts of Europe, the water fountains that were built were originally used as the main source of drinking as well as bathing. People would come to fill their buckets and take water to their homes or consume the water on the spot.

In the Czech Republic’s city of Prague, water fountains of all types stood in every possible open space. While the fountains used to be the main source of drinking water, they have since become decorative sculptures. While some fountains were simple wooden-framed reservoirs others were ornately decorated. Still others were statues and delicately carved sculptures of classical, biblical and natural themes.

Author Ignát Hermann wrote that once upon a time there existed more than 400 usable fountains in Prague during the 19th century. As time went on, there became fewer fountains – even less for drinking. Currently most fountains are seen mainly in recreational or tourist areas. The following are some of the more popular water fountains that you will still find fully functioning within the city of Prague.

Water Features at Prague Castle

Fountains have always been popular water features at the homes and castles of nobility. Prague Castle is no different. There are four water fixtures featured at this popular tourist attraction.

The first is Kohl Fountain, also known as Lion Fountain, located in the second courtyard of Prague Castle. Built in 1686, Kohl fountain is one of the oldest in Prague. This fountain was a significant part of the castle’s water and fire systems. Being one of the largest castle water reservoirs, one of its main purposes was to extinguish fires.

The third courtyard of Prague Castle is home to the Eagle Fountain of 1661. This small Baroque fountain is located next to the Gothic gate which leads to a small yard below.

Another water fountain located in the third courtyard of Prague Castle is the Fountain with the figure of St. George. The statue of St. George once decorated a fountain based on Plečnik’s design in 1928. However, the statue was dismantled and installed in Jiřské Square in the 1990s.

The Singing Fountain at Belvedér is one of the most magnificent fountains of the Renaissance. It is located at the Summerhouse of Queen Ann in the Královská (or Royal) Garden of Prague Castle. The fountain was cast by Master Jaroš in 1562-68 after a drawing and wax model by Italian painter Francesco Terzio of Bergamo. The wooden mould was cut by Hanuš Peysser. The fountain, made of bronze blended with bell metal, is ornately decorated with hunting themes. If you squat down below the level of the fountain basin you can enjoy the “singing” water jets. These jets produce a lyrical, rhythmical sound by the water dropping on a resonating bronze plate.

The last water feature at Prague Castle is not a fountain but a well located in the second courtyard. This well has an octagonal basin and a wrought-iron superstructure. The creator of this well is unknown. The iron grille is topped with a metal rose. It is located right next to the Kohl Fountain.

Other Famous Fountains in Prague

Aside from Prague Castle there are a few other famous fountains scattered throughout the city. In Old Town there is the fountain located in the center of Malé Square. This is the very oldest fountain in Prague and it is protected by a hand-wrought Renaissance grille from 1560. This piece of history has been updated through the centuries with mechanical pumps and stone socles added to ensure proper water flow. Artistically the angelic décor of this fountain make it a true masterpiece.

In New Town there is an 1890 fountain located below the National Museum ramp, which is embellished with a sculpted group called Tschechia. Tschechia is an allegory of the Czech rivers by Antonín Wagner. The fountain basins are made of Hradec Králové sandstone, red Skandinavian granite and yellow Untersberg marble. The bronze lion’s head waterspout makes this fountain quite an attraction.

Located in Kinských Square is a fountain called “The Trapdoor of Time.” It is a newer fountain erected in 2002. The two granite slabs (made from a cracked rock) symbolizes the trapdoor of time that “devours all deeds of man.” This fountain has 64 nozzles, 24 of which have a special bubbling feature that creates a unique water stream. 40 lights are used to illuminate the fountain at night. The jets in the central quarry-faced granite crack shoots water eight meters high.

There are still several other water fountains located throughout the city that hold their own special historical significance. Some fountains are still working but most are not. If touring the fountains of Prague is something that has piqued your interest, any travel guide can help direct you toward these amazing water fountain antiquities.

Elizabeth Jean is a frequent contributor to Garden-Fountains.com, the Internet’s #1 resource for wall fountains, indoor fountains and garden statuary.

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25th June 2006
Author: Robert Palmer

China, with an area of 9.6 million sq km, is the third largest country in the world, next only to Russia and Canada. Located in eastern Asia, China is bordered by Russia and Mongolia to the north; Russia and North Korea to the east; Russia and Afghanistan to the west; and India, Pakistan, Nepal, Burma, Bhutan, Vietnam, and Laos to the south. The capital of China is Beijing. Shanghai is the largest city.

Traveling to China is a life time experience and an ideal way to understand the land of cultural and geographic schisms. China offers immense opportunities for its visitors to make their travel quite interesting. Whether you are interested in Chinese culture, Chinese history, or simply to enjoy Chinese scenery, a trip through the Chinese mainland has it all. If you don’t have a couple of years for exploring the Chinese mainland, it is a good idea to follow a loose itinerary. Some good suggestions along these lines include a trip from the Chinese capital to Tibet through Xi’an’s terracotta warriors, following the traditional Silk route, sailing down the Yangtze River (which provides the most rarest and beautiful views of Mother Nature), or traveling around the Dr Seuss landscape of Guangxi Province.

Beijing has been crowned as the country’s capital for approximately 500 years. The city boasts some of the beautiful sights such as the off-limits palace of Ming and Qing emperors, the Forbidden City, their eunuch servants, princesses and harems. The Summer Palace, one of the major attractions, was constructed in the late Qing period. China’s renowned imperial legacy “the Great Wall” starts from Beijing. The wall can be viewed from numerous places, however, majority of the visitors approach it from Beijing.

The sacred mountains of China have always been major pilgrimage destinations for many centuries and all these mountains feature well marked trails to the summits. There are also stairways carved into rock faces, and sights en-route includes inscriptions and poems and several temples. The sunrise at the summit is inevitably one of the most noted attractions. Huangshan, Emeishan, and Taishan are the most popular mountains majority of the foreign tourists never miss in their China travel.

China also prides for being home to the largest Buddha statue in the world. The Grand Buddha at Leshan in Sichuan Province is 71 m high and carved into a cliff face which overlooks the meeting of the Dadu and Min rivers. China’s well known collection of European architecture is lined up facing the sea on the Bund in Shanghai. Xiamen in Fujian Province features outstanding collections of colonial architecture, on Gulangyr Island. Tourist attractions in China are too much information to cover. Hence it is better to contact a tourist operator first and get an idea about the possibility and cost of different tour programs before embarking on one.

Lush and full of flowers, Bali is called the island of one thousand temples. The small island is part of Indonesia and is a very popular destination for those looking for pristine, white-sanded, palm-lined beaches and crystalline waters. A great destination for surfing, snorkeling and diving as well as wonderful opportunities to see tropical flora and fauna. Stunning seaside and volcano landscapes, terraced rice fields and more than 20,000 temples and ornate palaces will surround you.

Denpasar is the capital of Bali. Here you may find found the Werdhi Budaya Art Centre, home to Dance Academy (ASTI) dedicated to traditional Balinese Performing arts, dance, theatre, as well as several art galleries.

For some true local flavor, visit the extensive Kumbasari market near the river, where fresh produce as well as housewares, colorful crafts and miscellaneous wares are all on riotous display. Bargain wisely.

Bali excels in the arts. Visit the village of Celuk to view the works of the silver and goldsmiths of the island, and Ubud, Sukawati, Pengosan and Kamasan for Bali’s fine paintings, woodcarvings, textiles and miscellanous fine arts and crafts.

The Bali Museum – One of Indonesia’s largest museums, the Bali Museum displays a great number of historical and cultural artifacts within its pavilions. It was opened in 1932. Location, Jalan Mayor Wisnu to the east of the Puputan Square. The museum is open 7:30 am – 3 pm Sunday through Thursday, and 7:30 am – 1 pm Friday.

Sanur Beach

One of Denpasar’s most popular beaches and tourist areas offering hotels, dining, shopping and watersports and other activities.

Kuta

Resort area popular among the surfers with a wide range of lodging offerings, restaurants and bars, shops and activities. Check out the traditional dance and music shows.

Nusa Dua

Tourist/hotel area on south Bali’s Bukit Peninsula with beautiful stretches of white-sanded beach.

Other places of interest:

Batubulan

A village of stone carvings located to the northeast of Denpasar. The carvings are of gods and demons hewn from sandstone and are used in temple and other architecture.

Bedugul

This resort area, located 18 km north of Denpasar on Lake Bratan, offers golfing amid tree-covered hills. Other activities include boating, water skiing and other water sports.

Celuk

The village of Celuk is known for its silver and gold jewelry designed and fashioned by local artisans.

Kintamani

This village is located at about 5,000′ above sea level on the rice-paddy terraced skirts of the volcano of the same name. Excellent spot to take in views of Lake Batur and the Kintamani volcano itself

Pura Tirta Empul Temple

This temple, situated at Tampak Siring, is more than 1000 yrs old and contains baths of curative waters used for purification and the restoration of good health.

Sangeh Forest

This sacred forest of dense and fragrant nutmeg trees is home to quantities of monkeys. As inhabitants of the forest, the monkeys too are considered sacred and therefore are protected. It is not a good idea to feed them, and watch your personal possessions such as jewellry and watches, as the monkeys are known to run off with them quite regularly.

Tanah Lot Temple

Situated on top of a large rock jutting into the sea, the Tanah Lot temple dates from the 16th Century. It is dedicated to the God of the Sea and is a place where local fishermen come to pray for good catches and protection. The beauty of it’s silhouette against the sky can be particularly appreciated at sundown

Ubud

This town in the hills and rice-farming reagions is the place to go for Balinese paintings. See the “Purl Lukisan” museum’s permanent exhibition of modern Balinese art as well as the many galleries.

Bali Hotels

• Intercontinental Resort Bali
• Kamandalu Resort And Spa Bali
• Grand Mirage Resort Bali
• Alila Manggis Hotel Bali

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21st May 2006
Author: Arpad Domonkos

Budapest is split right through by the great River Danube, like a hyphen in the city’s very name. Just as a Danube divides Europe into East and West, so it divides this city’s west-bank Buda district from the east-bank district of Pest. East and west, the city has been tugged in both directions for almost its entire history.

Budapest is the largest city in Central Europe, Budapest is also one of its loveliest, hugging the curve of a wide band in the Danube. Along the west bank, the city climbs quickly up to Castle Hill, site of the former Royal Palace and the medieval village of Buda.

On a flat, low-lying plain across the river is Pest, the modern administrative and commercial hub of Budapest. An admirable example of town planning, the so called Inner City is distinguished by board, leafy boulevards, continental cafes and handsome baroque, neo-classical and noveau buildings. The city’s grand look, fin-de-siecle look has prompted many to call Budapest “the Paris of the East.”

The point where the two sides face each other, across the Danube is what defines Budapest best. Lining the left bank of Pest is the palatial neo-Gothic Parliament building a whole city block of white spires, topped by a neo-Renaissance red dome. Just as famous is the 19th-century Chain Bridge regally guarded by four stone lions and linking (along with seven other bridges) the two banks of the city.

For photos about Hungarian Parliament and Chain bridge you can visit my Budapest Photo blog.

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