Rome is the capital city of Italy and one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is ridded with fabulous architecture, historic attractions and small cobblestone streets. Its many famous landmarks including the magnificent Colosseum will make your stay in the city one that will be remembered for life.

Traveling There
Flying is an easy option as Rome has its own airport (Leonardo da Vinci Airport) that receives flights from many other worldwide international airports. There are frequent shuttle bus transfers and trains that run from both the international and domestic airports in Rome.

Great rail and bus services operate throughout Italy so getting around I easy. Also, good road networks make driving an option for those who want to take in the scenery on the way.

Accommodation Choices
Rome is a luxurious and expensive city and for this reason you can expect the accommodation rates to be quite high. The city is also very popular so be sure to book well in advance. All kinds of accommodation can be found within the city such as hotels, guesthouses, apartments and hostels.

History
Rome has a vast and interesting history as it was once the capital of the Roman Empire that began in 753 BC. The Empire practically took over the world and conquered up to one fifth of its population. Later on in the Middle Ages, Rome grew as a cultural and artistic capital city.

Sights and Attractions
The main reason that the majority of tourists visit Rome is because of the amazing sightseeing. The main attraction and a must see is the huge Colosseum. If architecture is of your interest be sure to visit Panthenon in the city centre. This building was far ahead of its time. Also go and see the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps and be sure to be overwhelmed.

Shopping
Many people travel to Italy for its shopping potential and Rome is often the place where they go. Whilst in the city you can see and feel the locals love for style and fashion. The streets of Rome are full of the world’s leading designer brands and can be particularly dear in price. If you are after high street fashion then head for the areas of Via Nazionale, Via del Corso and Via Cola di Rienzo.

Dining Options
Rome is a great place to go out eating and drinking. Most restaurants offer an array of international cuisine and Italian specialties such as traditional pizza and many pasta dishes. Dining establishments can be found all over the city and cater for all budgets.

Dan works and writes for hirecars.co.uk and produced this article. Tourist guide to Rome from Budget car hire specialist Dan also works at self catering The Self catering rental comparator

Article Source: Travel Articles

Among academies, libraries and museums, religious monuments, churches, civil architecture and buildings you will experience you really are in a treasure hunting. For this reason not only tourists, or backpackers but prevalently international students or even international volunteers are choosing this city for their academic courses, stages and studies.

Well, to start, we mention an international place where students, travellers, journalists and actors usually meet: at Acqua al 2 you can get cannelloni, beef, selection of salads, pasta, cheese and excellent wines at average prices of €30. Acqual al 2 is a modern bistro that we suggest in Via Vigna Vecchia ,40; ph: +39 055 284 170; open daily from 7.30 pm-1am).

If you are visiting Florence and you are on a budget and looking for cheap accommodation consider youth hostels, backpackers hostels or international students houses ( hostels as well) where a bed night average price start from 18 euros. The atmosphere is quite basic but somehow fascinating. Florence does not have a long tradition in modern hippie youth hostels as you might find in other top cities. Florence rather can offer old style hostels, kind of student residence, or pilgrim residence as it was in Medieval times. Monasteries are converted in new pilgrims hostels ( backpackers, students, international volunteers) sometimes still run by nuns or monks. You can find some more details in site for young travellers or backpackers as Flashboking.com.

For budget tips where to go shopping here we go!

It is possible to make excellent purchases in the narrow lanes and streets of Florence in particular around Santa Croce and Oltrarno you can easily find little authentic workshops of paper, leather, perfumes…

Some names: Il Papiro offers good quality hand-made paper in Piazza del Duomo, 24r (ph: +39 055 281 628). Officina Profumo Farmaceutica Shop an old fashioned chemist offers lotions, potions, and herbal remedies abound in elegant packaging in Via Scala, 16 (ph: +39 055 16276 )

Go to Piazza dei Ciompi if you are looking for second-hand and flea markets (last Sun. of the month), or to S. Lorenzo Market (northwest of the Duomo), or the colourful Central Market for food (Square of Mercato Centrale). Here you ‘ll find olives, hams, cheeses and fresh vegetables. Try Via Maggio and Borgo Ognissanti for fine Florentine antique shops.

Of course for anything you need, ticket booking, accommodations booking, hotel reservations, budget trattorie, or simply to locate all this on a map you need a pc and an internet point ( as not all youth hostel will have pc free fro every guest!!). There are a few in Florence. Internet point (Borgo degli Albizi 66; ph:+39 055 24 0780; €3/hour); Internet Train: (€4/hour or €3/hour for students) with 12 point sin the city: Via dell’Oriuolo, 40, ph: +39 055 2345 322; Via del Parione 11b, ph:+39 055 264 5563; Borgo S. Jacopo, ph: +39 055 265 7935).

This article was written by Michele De Capitani with support from cheap hostel Florence. For any information, please visit hostels Florence or for travel insurance visit backpackers in Florence.

Article Source: Travel Articles

The old goat herder stands before his flock. Stick in hand, he bears the look of experience. His beaten old hat keeps the sun off his unshaven face.

His weathered trousers have seen better days and wear a belt, crudely tied around his waist. His braces are actually two of the elastic straps you use to tie your luggage to the car’s roof rack.

As the sun beats down on the plains of Agia Marina he herds his goats to pastures new and another day of contentment.

When your country has suffered 9000 years of constant invasion, any break in hostilities is greeted with appreciation.

Cyprus is a blend of many influences. Turkish, Greek, Muslim and Christian invaders have all set foot upon this hallowed land and made their mark.

Mosques and Christian churches stand side by side as a reminder of the often turbulent and violent past of Cyprus.

But when free of the shackles of conflict, Cyprus is a place of beauty and discovery. The Byzantine churches amongst the Troodos Mountains are an essential experience.

The sense of history and culture is overwhelming as you journey through mountain passes and wonder at the ancient architecture.

For a genuine sense of solitude try cycling through the barren land of the Karpas Peninsula or hiking the well-trodden trails of Mount Olympus.

The blue crystal waters of Cape Greco provide a wealth of opportunity for swimming and diving.

When the sun goes down, the Cypriot nightlife will have you dancing into the early hours. Youngsters tend to make their way towards the large contingent of British pubs in Agia Napa.

The more cultured make their way to the traditional Cypriot cafes and bars. Here you can drink raki, the local firewater made from distilled grapes.

If you’re peckish, try the baked lamb dish of kleftiko, or another local favourite mezedes.

Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website featuring city break special offers from luxury hotels to budget accommodations. For more information please visit http://www.sargas.co.uk

Article Source: Travel Articles

Cyprus is famous for its friendliness, taverns and numerous sandy beaches. It is a beautiful island set in the Eastern corner of the Mediterranean Sea and is a wonderful place for a holiday. It is an island with countless attractions and places of cultural and historical interest. Cyprus is a popular year round holiday destination. Besides that Cyprus is generally a safe country with a low crime rate. Hence you have to consider to visit Cyprus now or then.

Cyprus is around 4 hours from UK airports. Southern Cyprus is served by two international airports: Larnaca Airport and Paphos Airport thereby you can reach Cyprus from any corner of the world. But if you want to make the most of your Cyprus holiday and explore the island, the ideal solution is to hire a car. A rental car in Cyprus is the best way to tour the 400 miles of coastline or the mountainous Troodos.

Cyprus car hire or rent a car in Paphos is available at 25-60% discounted rates, full insurances, unlimited mileage and at no excess charge. Their aim is to find you the lowest possible prices for car hire Cyprus. As there is plenty to see and do in Cyprus, car hire is a commended need that will make your holiday much comfortable. A rental car can really help you discover the hidden delights of Northern Cyprus. Cyprus Car Hire is the site for you if you’re looking online for hiring a car in Cyprus. Hiring a car from Cyprus Car Hire give you a great opportunity to explore Cyprus and have some family fun days out. Cyprus car hire offers new Cyprus rental cars with all-inclusive rates, online instant quote system and a variety of Cyprus cars. Alternatively,if you are looking for a Cyprus Car Hire Company with low prices and excellent service then Z & X Drivers Rentals is what you were looking for. Northern Cyprus is simply ‘paradise’ but do keep in mind that in Northern Cyprus car hire firms do not have office in the airports.

So, when are you going to trip of Cyprus?

Do you want to read more about car hire worldwide?
Then browse my site http://www.car-hire-directory.biz
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Adding Finland to your vacation itinerary can leave you wondering what to do when you get there and where to stay. Finland offers visitors a wide range of attractions and cultural activities.

Visiting Helsinki

Helsinki is a popular destination for tourists deciding to visiting Finland. Helsinki attractions include The Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma, and the Temppeliaukio Church, a modern church carved completely of rock and featuring shining copper dome. The Natural Museum of Finland and the Finnish National Opera offer cultural enrichments during your stay in Helsinki. Shoppers will love Kauppatoni, a street market near the sea featuring local crafts, fruits vegetables.

Staying in Helsinki is recommended by other travelers at the Hotel Kamp for about $322 a night, The Radisson SAS Plaza Hotel Helsinki for an average price of $248, The Radisson SAS Seaside Hotel, running about $188 a night, the Palace Hotel for about $243 a room, The Helka Hotel a $212 average, and The Crowne Plaza Hotel for around $273 a night.

Visiting Tampere

The city of Tampere has many cultural attractions to offer entertainment for the foreign tourist. The Hiekka Art Museum is located inside the home of the late Kustaa Hiekka who was an industrialist, goldsmith and an eclectic collector. The Art Piaspalia features art from the beginning of the twentieth century to today and is a delight for the art lover. Willa Kosmos Art Museum and educational center is a good choice for art lovers as well as providing the entire family with facts about art that will foster an appreciation for art and artists. Tampere also has the Sarkanniemi Adventure Park, a sure bet for families with children, Tampere Cathedral to inspire visitors, the Aha Teatteri Theater and the Hameen Museo Museumto are both great entertainment venues for visitors. Tampere offers a wide selection in entertainment for the whole family.

Tampere lodgings that come highly recommended by other guests are the Scandii Tampere City Hotel, The Holiday Inn Tampere, The Best Western Hotel Kauppi and the Hotelli Victorio.

Visiting Espoo

Espoo is a popular tourist spot in Finland. Popular attractions in Espoo include, the Stall Eqvus, a popular horse track and beautiful nature trail fitting for families and individuals, the Storra Herro Island, The Children’s Theatre Hevosakenka, and the Saunaseura Spa and Sauna.

Hotels in Espoo that are recommended for tourists, by tourists, are: The Palace hotel Sello at an average of $206 a night, The Scandie Hotel Espoo for about $213 a night for one room, The Art Travel Apartments averaging $98 per room, The Hotel Kprpilampi for around $148 per room per night, and the Sokas Hotel Tapiola Garden casting about $287 a night.

Article Source: Travel Articles

Stockholm is the capital city of Sweden. It is renowned for being one of the most attractive cities in Europe, largely due to its location that spreads over a number of islands. Generally, tourists visit the city to enjoy its laid-back atmosphere and its impressive museums and historical buildings.

Travelling to Stockholm

It is simple and usually cheap to fly to Stockholm from within Europe. Their airport receives flights from airports all over Europe and operates a frequent and reliable shuttle services to locations within a 25 mile radius. Stockholm also has a great rail network to other Scandinavian counties. If you are travelling on a budget then the bus and ferry services maybe more suited.

Accommodation

For a large range of accommodation, head for the Central Station area of the city. That area and Gamla Stan has a variety of hotels to suit all budgets. Söderhallarna and Södermalm are other city locations that offer both hotels and hostels.

History

When you visit Stockholm you get a real feel for its history through the impressive buildings and museums there. Stockholm was first established in the 13th century and continued to grow to become the largest city in Sweden and the capital. Sweden was once united with neighboring Denmark and Norway until after the renowned Stockholm Bloodbath which involved the killing of 80 Swedes by a Danish king.

Sights and Attractions

Stockholm is a great location to go sightseeing as it has a range of both historical and modern attractions. A must see is Kungliga Slottet, the world’s largest royal castle that is still in use. It is an impressive architectural stronghold that has 600 rooms. The city is packed with museums and great architecture for example, town hall.

Shopping

Stockholm is a great place to go shopping as it has some of Sweden’s best department stores and malls. The old town part of the city has more souvenir shops and boutiques for the traditional shopper. Drottninggatan is one of Stockholm’s most famous shopping streets so be sure to visit there.

Dining

Stockholm has a reputation for being an expensive city for eating out. However, there are cheaper restaurants and fast food outlets around that might be best for travelers on a budget. If money is no worry for your holiday then be sure to eat out as the Swedish and international cuisine in the posh restaurants is delicious. Wine and other beverages are also costly so be sure to check price lists prior to ordering.

Dan Oldfield works as a writer for hirecars.co.uk and produced this article tourist guide to Stockholm from Budget car hire specialist He also writes for The vacation House rental comparator
Article Source: Travel Articles

Whether your visit to Spain’s beautiful Costa del Sol region is for business or pleasure, there is a Malaga hotel to meet your needs and preferences. Though there are many hotels in Malaga, Spain, other accommodations are also available including resorts, apartments, conference centers or a Bed and Breakfast. With so many options in accommodation choices, you will surely find suitable arrangements for you whether in a hotel or not.

The average hotel in Malaga will cost around $100.00 US or less. Even the four and five star hotels are reasonably priced. If you prefer a high rise, luxury hotel in the center of the city, you should consider the AC Malaga Palacio Hotel or the Los Naranjos Hotel, both offering the amenities to which one would be accustomed in larger chain hotels. If prefer a more relaxing non-city atmosphere, then you should consider some of the resorts in and around the Malaga area. There are several spas and resorts available, including the Parador Malaga Golf, the Sunset Beach Club or the Gran Hotel Benahavis in Malaga which has a swimming pool and fitness center. It ranges in price from $100.00 to $250.00 US per night. There is also the Radisson sas el Marques Resort and Spa if you prefer a larger, international chain.

Another accommodation option is a Bed and Breakfast, though they are somewhat different in Malaga as compared to those found in the United States. In Malaga and the Costa del Sol region, a moderately sized hotel with a continental breakfast may be termed a Bed and Breakfast simply because it includes a breakfast. Though these hotels are not the likely expected inn with antique furniture and a long country-style porch, they do offer much personal service and a lot of European charm.

Apartments are a good choice for those traveling in larger groups, as a family or for the traveler desiring even more of a home away from home. Apartments offer the conveniences and comforts of home, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities and a living area. You can either rent an apartment for your vacation or even purchase a timeshare whereby you can return each year. Property owners usually rent the apartments for a minimum stay of at least one week, unless you are willing to pay a higher rate for the shorter stay. Apartments are great choices for extended stays in the region also and are popular among retired visitors staying in the area during the off seasons.

Article Source: Travel Articles

A Malaga city overview would not be complete without exploring the rich history surrounding the region. There is also much to do within Malaga and all along the Costa del Sol. Tourists will not be disappointed in the museums, nightlife, shopping or any of the hotels and accommodations. It is truly a vacationer’s paradise in every sense of the word.

A Bit of History

Malaga city, once occupied by the Moors grew into one of the Iberian Peninsula’s centre of trade. As a result, fortresses were erected that still stand as monuments of its historical triumph over invasion after it was conquered b Isabella and Ferdinand in 1487. However, because of its earlier occupation by the Romans, Greeks and Phoenicians, there is evidence in all of its oldest architecture which lends way to the city’s charm.

How to Get There

Visitors to Malaga city can arrive by air via the Malaga airport which is less than 8 km from the city centre to the west. It is a busy airport which supports all of the travel to the Costa del Sol. Flights arrive and depart daily servicing more than 60 major cities around the world. Main highways link major cities in the region and travel by bus or car from the airport is convenient.

Where to Stay

Once you reach Malaga, there are several choices in accommodations. You can choose from villas, hotels, or apartments, depending on the length of your stay and your own personal preferences. Most are within walking distance to the cities major tourist spots and within a short drive of golf, hiking, restaurants and bars.

Eating Out

There is no shortage of choices when it comes to eating out in Malaga city. Some of the most famous tapas bars are located near Calle Nueva right in the centre of the action. These include Rincon de Mata, Taperia Siglo XX1, El Trasiego, and bohemian favourite, Taberna Rincon Chintas.

Must-See Sights

As with all of Europe, churches and cathedrals are major tourist destinations and Malaga city does not disappoint. The Cathedral, built between 1528 and 1782 was erected on a site once housing a mosque. Insufficient funding forced the Cathedral to limit its towers to one instead of the planned two.

The Castillo de Gibralfaro is a castle that is best known for the location of the siege by Ferdinand and Isabella which lasted three months. It is named as such because in the early 1300s it served as a lighthouse.

A well-known landmark, the Alcazba is a fortress where the city celebrated its first Catholic Mass following its siege by the Christians. Today, is houses a museum and beautiful gardens.

Malaga is the birthplace of the famous artist, Picasso. It is here that a museum paying tribute to his life and art is housed.

Shopping

Calle Marques de Larios is the main street for shopping in Malaga city. Be sure to bring plenty of money, because only the most exclusive of boutiques are located here. For more reasonable choices there is the Plaza de la Constitutcion. Also, small side alleys provide better bargains for souvenirs.

Nightlife

Musical bars are very popular among tourists and locals in Malaga city. Some offer all night flamenco, jazz, and plenty of subjects for people watching. You can also find O’Neills Irish Pub along Calle Luis del Velazquez, which just shows how diverse this city can be. Musical theatre can be enjoyed at the Miguel Cervantes Municipal Theatre which features many well-known headliners.

No Malaga city overview can do justice to the variety of sights and activities available. From the beach front shores just a short distance away to the rich cultural attractions downtown, Malaga city has something for everyone.

Article Source: Travel Articles

For those that want to enjoy an exciting and fun-filled vacation that offers the ideal opportunity to kick back and relax, as well as offering a range of exciting things to see and do, Torrevieja Spain is the ideal choice of destination. Located on the beautiful and vibrant Costa Blanca, this is a destination that has something to suit everyone, and is also conveniently located to visit other places such as Alicante, Benidorm, Javea, and Santa Pola. You can reach this destination with ease from Alicante airport, and once you arrive you will be able to soak up the vibrant atmosphere, surrounding beauty, and excitement of this popular part of Spain. This is a destination that has become very popular with tourists, especially with European visitors, so you will be able to enjoy a good mix of cultures when you come here. Whether you want to kick back and relax, enjoy a range of recreational opportunities, sample the nightlife, explore the rich history and culture of the area, or just soak up some of that fabulous weather, you will not be disappointed with this beautiful Spanish destination.

There is plenty to keep you busy in Torrevieja

When you visit this destination you will find plenty to keep you busy, which means that you can look forward to a full and exciting itinerary throughout your time here. In addition to exploring the surrounding areas and towns, where you will also find a great choice of entertainment and many sights, you can look forward to everything from cultural events and historical places of interest to natural beauty and exciting entertainment for the whole family. The beach is a big attraction in Torrevieja, and is the perfect place to relax and top up that tan. You can also enjoy a range of recreational activities when you come here, from water activities and climbing to nature walks, golf, and more. If shopping is your thing, you can look forward to an array of unique and exciting shopping opportunities, and you will have no problem picking up that unique gift or souvenir. For those that don’t want to stop when the sun goes down, there is an abundance of exciting nightlife to be enjoyed in this area, and you can dance into the early hours and enjoy drinks and cocktails with a choice of clubs and bars.

Other places to visit on Torrevieja

There really is something for everyone to enjoy in Torrevieja Spain. You can look forward to a range of attractions to add to your itinerary. Enjoy a visit to the Museum of Sea and Salt, enjoy a boat tour or simply relax in the Torrevieja Harbour, stroll around the charming Torrevieja Town Square, or visit historical attractions such as the Church of the Immaculate Conception. This is a destination that also enjoys a colorful and diverse culture, and those visiting the area will be able to enjoy a range of cultural events and festivities that take place over the course of the year, providing the perfect opportunity to soak up some local culture, learn about the local way of life, and enjoy some unique fun and entertainment along the way. The convenient location of this destination makes it ideal for those that want to travel around a little and explore other places in the area, as there are some wonderful and exciting tourist destination within close proximity, so you can really make the most of your time in Spain.

Article Source: Travel Articles

Most tourists assume hotels are the only viable option once they step on Barcelona soil. Nothing could be further from the truth. No matter where one may be in the world, there are always economical lodgings for the taking.. So, while it is true that hotels in Barcelona enjoy an 85-percent occupancy average, there are nevertheless a slew of accommodation possibilities. The most common are holiday apartments, aparthotels, hotels, hostals or pensions.

Barcelona Holiday Apartment

Who would not jump at the chance to stay in an exclusive apartment, complete with all the modern conveniences of home, for the price of a standard hotel room? A Barcelona holiday apartment is a great way to economize and live comfortably at the same time. Savings even become more noticeable if you stay at your Barcelona holiday apartment with two other people who will be splitting the bill with you. Staying in a Barcelona Holiday apartment can be very are cost-effective, especially if you are traveling as a family or with a group.

Barcelona Aparthotel

Compared to the Barcelona holiday apartment concept, the aparthotel is relatively new. An aparthotel is exactly as its name hints – a small apartment inside a hotel. It is perfect for people visiting Barcelona in groups. Most aparthotels have kitchens furnished with a cooker and a fridge.

Hotels, Hostals, or Pensions

Hostals mean pensions. The two are not just similar; they are identical. The same cannot be said of hostals and hotels, however. In Barcelona, hostals and hotels have a lot in common. In fact, some hostals offer equal, if not better, accommodations than some hotels. As a general rule, however, hostals are cheaper and are less luxurious than hotels. The disparity in price may range from negligible to substantial. Also, it is not unheard of for a hostal to have shared bathroom features. That, or a kitchen that is furnished with select pieces of equipment.

Hostals follow a different rating system. The highest possible score for hostals is only three stars. Hotels, on the other hand, may earn as many as five stars. Another difference between hotels and hostals involve booking procedures. Generally, one cannot make hostal reservations online. This is because few hostals have the computer power for such an undertaking. Some online sites such as http://www.holiday4you.com/, however, run helpful reviews of hostals that are worth a visit. So, even without the convenience of online booking, finding the right hostal for yourself or your friends shouldn’t be a problem.

Of course, if you could very well pay for a hotel room, then there’s no reason for you to even consider alternative means of shelter. If you have to carefully watch your money, however, then we have another story altogether. It’s only practical that you consider staying in a Barcelona holiday apartment, an aparthotel, or a hostal. All three are money-saving alternatives to hotel rates. They offer comfort without the unnecessary expenses and frills. Renting a Barcelona holiday apartment instead of staying in a modest hotel, for example, will let you save as much as 30 to 50 percent. What traveler could say no to that?

Article Source: Travel Articles