Montreal Travel Guide

Montreal  is the metropolis of the province of Quebec. Quebec City is the political capital but Montreal is the cultural and economic capital of Quebec and the main entry point to the province. The second largest city in Canada, it is a city rich in culture and history and a well-deserved reputation as one of the liveliest cities in North America. Montreal is the second-largest French-speaking (as a mother language) city in the world, behind Paris. The population of Montreal is about 1.9 million, with 4 million in the metro area. Montreal is sometimes referred to as The Paris of Canada.

Districts

Central Montreal

Montreal boroughs

Ville-Marie borough

Montreal is composed of 19 large boroughs. The most important one in central Montreal for visitors is Ville-Marie, which is further subdivided into neighbourhoods. From West to East, some of its neighbourhoods include:

Downtown — Skyscrapers, shopping, museums, McGill and Concordia universities, and the Parc du Mont-Royal.

Old Montreal — The historic and (dare we say it) quaint riverfront Old Town and Old Port.

Chinatown — The third largest in Canada, filled with numerous restaurants and shops.

Quartier Latin-Le Village — Restaurants, boutiques, cafes, pubs near UQAM in the Quartier Latin, gay bars and clubs in Le Village, and the working class neighbourhood of Sainte-Marie.

Parc Jean-Drapeau — The islands of Île Sainte-Helene and Île Notre-Dame and the Montreal Casino.

Plateau Mont-Royal district

The Plateau — A large, trendy district north of downtown and east of Parc du Mont-Royal noted for its quaint architecture, diverse mixture of cultures and languages, parks, music venues, theaters, restaurants, pedestrian streets, and the location of many summer festivals. Its attractions include Parc Lafontaine, the Main (Saint Laurent Blvd) with its many hotspots, St-Denis and Mont-Royal for shopping, eating and drinking. The Plateau includes several distinct neighbourhoods, including Mile End.

Mile End — The legendary Fairmount and St. Viateur bagel shops, Dieu du Ciel brewery, trendy restaurants and cafés, bookstores, thrift shops, espresso and soccer bars, the Rialto Theatre, St Michael and St. Andrew's church, boutiques and hipsters.

Other Montreal districts and Montreal Island towns

Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie — Little Italy and Rosemont, home to Italian, Vietnamese, and Latino communities, as well as the Jean-Talon market, one of Montreal's largest, most popular, and liveliest open-air markets. The section of St-Laurent Boulevard that runs through this borough has seen a recent (2015) resurgence in new restaurants and bars.

Westmount–Notre-Dame-de-Grâce — Westmount is legally a separate town from Montreal and is mostly residential, although it has a lively section of Sherbrooke Street and Victoria Avenue as its commercial hub. Greene Avenue further east is another tony commercial area. Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) is a diverse neighbourhood that includes leafy residential streets, a long commercial section of Sherbrooke West, gentrified Monkland Avenue, the Saint-Jacques strip, and the new MUHC hospital at Vendôme metro station.

Hochelaga-Maisonneuve — the "Espace pour la Vie" includes the Olympic Park, Botanical Gardens, Biodome and the Planetarium.

Côte-des-Neiges — Multicultural neighbourhood northwest of the mountain. NDG and Côte-des-Neiges are part of one large borough but have quite different vibes. Côte-des-Neiges is a vibrant street that borders on the academic world of the Université de Montréal and the Hautes Études Commerciales on one side, and the hospitals (St. Mary's and the Jewish General) on the other. Queen Mary Road is another commercial street of note.

Outremont — Upscale, francophone neighbourhood noted for its architecture, boutiques and restaurants, and its flourishing Hasidic community.

South West — Including the Lachine canal, Atwater Market (a must!), St. Henri, and the emerging culinary hot-spot, Little Burgundy.

Villeray/Parc-Extension – Parc Extension, one of Canada's most ethnically diverse neighbourhoods, is noted for its vibrant South Asian community and its family-run restaurants, while to the east, beyond Jarry Park and north of Little Italy, lies Villeray, mostly residential, but also home to a range of cafes and restaurants.

Situated on an island in the St. Lawrence River at the historically highest navigable point, Montreal has been a strategic location since before the arrival of Europeans in Canada. A thriving St.Lawrence Iroquoian town called Hochelaga was on the site of present-day Montreal when explorer Jacques Cartier first visited in 1535. A hundred years later, in 1642, the tiny town of Ville-Marie was founded as a Sulpician mission by Paul Chomedey, sieur de Maisonneuve. It soon became a centre of the fur trade. After its capture by the English in 1762, Montreal remained (until the 1970s) the most important city in Canada and was briefly capital of the province in the 1840s.

Prohibition on sales of alcohol in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s made Montreal a mecca for cross-border fun seekers from nearby New England and New York. The city built up a seedy, yet playful, industry in alcohol, burlesque, and other vices. In the 1960s, an urban renewal drive centred around Expo 67. The World's Fair in Montreal brought a subway system and a number of attractive urban parks and is considered to be one of the most successful World Fairs. Over 50 million visitors gathered to Montreal during this memorable summer. The 1976 Olympics left a strikingly idiosyncratic stadium and many other urban improvements.

St Lawrence river gateway

The opening of the Saint Lawrence Seaway in 1959, though much lauded as an economic boom, spelled the beginning of the end for Montreal's economic dominance in Canada. Once the transition point between western railroads and eastern sea carriers, Montreal watched helplessly as some of this business moved farther west, up the now navigable Seaway, to ports in Ontario and on Lake Superior. The Quebec Sovereignty movement, which began to pick up steam in the 1960s, further chilled the atmosphere for Canada-wide businesses, many of which moved their headquarters to Toronto.

Following an economic depression in the 1980s and 1990s, Montreal became more secure in its place in North America and the world. It remains a centre of culture, arts, computer technology, aerospace, the biotech industry, and media for all of Canada.

Orientation

It has been said that Montréal is the only city in the world where the sun "rises in the south."

Montrealers use an unconventional compass, using the river and the mountain as cardinal points. When you are downtown, the St Lawrence River is “south” and Mount Royal is “north”; making the West Island and the East End correct in both their names and orientations. The dividing line between "east" and "west" downtown is the boulevard Saint-Laurent. In downtown, streets slope up "north" toward Mount Royal. This local compass tends to confuse visitors because the “East” End is really to the north and the “West” Island is to the south, and the St Lawrence River runs almost northeast-southwest at this location.

Most local maps use this convention as do the highways around the city. For example, Autoroute 15 north actually runs northwest and Autoroute 40 east runs northeast.

To underscore this fact, a Montreal map will show that the "south end" of Victoria Bridge is in fact further north than the "north end".

Gay Montreal

Montreal is an extremely inviting destination for gay and lesbian tourists. Canada's contributions to gay rights have recently become widely known, but Quebec was the first province in Canada to pass a non-discrimination law for sexual orientation and to provide same-sex civil unions (although Toronto was the first municipality in Canada to do so). Same-sex marriage is legal in Quebec (neither residency nor citizenship are required for a marriage license, but there is a three-week waiting period after you receive the licence) as well as in the rest of Canada. Canadian and Quebec immigration law allow residents to sponsor their same-sex partners or spouses.

Montreal itself is a very safe, open, and inviting city. The métro station in the Gay Village, Beaudry, is marked with rainbow pillars. Montreal's pride celebration, Divers/Cité(last week of July, first week of August) is the second-largest in Canada after Toronto's.

Climate

Climate Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Daily highs (°C) -5 -4 2 11 19 24 27 25 19 12 5 -2

Nightly lows (°C) -12 -11 -5 3 10 15 18 17 12 6 0 -9

Precipitation (mm) 74 71 80 77 87 88 106 101 101 84 94 102

See the Montreal 7 day forecast at Environment Canada

The climate of Montreal is a true humid continental climate with 4 distinct seasons. The city has warm, to occasional hot & humid summers, generally mild spring and autumn, and often very cold & snowy winters. Montreal gets over 2,000 hours of sunshine annually. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with around 2 meters of snow per season.

By metro or bus

Montreal is home to one of the three public subway/metro systems in Canada, the others found in Vancouver and Toronto. The public transit system, run by Société de transport de Montréal (STM) , is safe, efficient, and is overall pleasant to use. Tickets have been replaced by cards with magnetic stripe containing one trip, called an à la carte ticket. These are valid for one trip (including unlimited transfers in the same way for 120 min) on the metro and buses, costing $3.25 each (exact fare in coins is required on the buses but not on the metro) but are also available for less when you purchase 2 for $6.00 either from the metro agent, the automatic fare vending machine located in metro stations, or an authorized seller.

Unlike some subway systems you do not need the fare card to exit, but you can use the card to transfer to a bus, and you can be asked at any time by a transit cop to produce the valid fare card. So don't throw it away while you're still in the transit system or you can be fined.

Note that Montreal metro stations and train cars lack air conditioning, the Metro can sometimes get uncomfortably hot, in every season. It does however still exist as the best transport option in the city. The train cars are all old (original rolling stock) and will be replaced over several years starting in 2016.

Announcements are in French only as is the vast majority of signage. In addition, Montreal transit workers are not obliged to speak in any language other than French (with the exception of customer service representatives). While most transit workers are happy to speak to you in English and are generally friendly to visitors, it is possible that a question in English might be met with sign language or dead silence. It never hurts to begin a conversation with "Bonjour, est-ce que vous parlez anglais?" The customer service counter at Berri-Uqam (on the Orange, Yellow, and Green lines) have English-speaking staff. In addition, airport staff are fully bilingual.

When departing from metro stations in Laval and Longueuil, tickets and passes bought in Montreal can't be used. You have to pay a different fare inbound from those stations.

If you are using cash to pay your fare on the bus, it is important to have the exact fare since the driver does not give change; you will receive an à la carte ticket, which is your proof of payment and your transfer.

Passes are available which offer unlimited travel on the bus and metro for periods of 24-hours ($10) or three days ($18) and are well worth it to avoid fumbling for change, checking transfer times and restrictions, and worrying about getting off at the wrong stop and having to repay. There are also evening passes valid from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM ($5) and weekend passes valid from 6:00 PM Friday to 5:00 AM Monday ($13). As with all fares, they are available everywhere there is an OPUS machine. Weekly ($24.50, week is from Monday to Sunday) and monthly ($82) passes as well as 10-trip fares ($25.50) are also available; unlike one-day and three-day passes, these fares must be loaded onto an OPUS card (see below) and are not available in paper ticket form. Only students (25 years and under) studying at a recognized academic institution in Montréal or seniors (65 and over) may benefit from reduced fares, and a special OPUS card must be obtained from the STM.

The OPUS card is a smart card with a chip that contains your fare and transfer information. The OPUS card can be purchased at all metro stations for $6.

OPUS cards can be refilled and paper fares can be purchased at metro stations using the automated machines or at the ticket booth (cash only). They can also be purchased from other authorized sellers. A list of sellers is here. 

Fare prices increase at the start of every year (although the expected increase for 2016 has been delayed). The current fare grid can be found here. 

The STM website offers an online trip-planner service on their home page and their smartphone app. Trip planning can also be done using Google Maps. Free bus and Metro system maps are available from the ticket booth at most metro stations. These are useful to find where you are on the island.

At each subway station, directions are not indicated by compass directions, such as westbound or eastbound. Instead, trains go in the direction of a subway line's terminus. The green line runs from Angrignon in the west to Honoré-Beaugrand in the east. If you were to travel eastbound, for example, you would look for Honoré-Beaugrand on the platform. If you were to travel westbound, you would look for Angrignon. There are four interchange stations at which commuters can change subway lines without extra charge: Snowdon (blue/orange), Lionel-Groulx (orange/green), Berri-UQAM (green/yellow/orange), and Jean-Talon (orange/blue).

Bicycles are permitted aboard metro trains outside of the rush hours such as: 10:00am to 3:00pm and 7:00pm to end of service on weekdays and all day Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. Bikes are only allowed in the lead car of the train up to a maximum of 6. STM staff may deny bikes aboard the metro for safety reasons such as special events that might generate a high level of ridership. Lists of such events are posted on the STM website and at the entrances to metro. During festival season in Montreal, bikes are seldom allowed at all.

Bike riding inside stations or the Underground City is strictly prohibited.

By train

Montreal has a commuter train system run by the Agence métropolitaine de transport (AMT)  with termini at the Montreal Central Station (Gare Central) and at Lucien-L'Allier (both are accessible from the metro). Commuter trains are handy for getting to suburbs and neighbouring towns.

Commuter train stations are divided into eight zones that radiate out from downtown. Stations have automated machines from which you must purchase a ticket appropriate to the zones of the station you are traveling to or from, whichever is farther (for example, a trip from Zone 4 to Zone 3 or vice versa would require a Zone 4 ticket). In addition to the zone number, there are two types of fares: TRAIN fares (valid on commuter trains only) and TRAM fares (also valid on buses and the metro within the zone purchased). A prepurchased ticket card (SOLO) must be validated at the card scanners at the entrance to the platform. You can also purchase a six-trip ticket. As with the bus and metro, monthly passes require an OPUS card and reduced fares for students and seniors require a special OPUS card.

There are no ticket machines on the train and ticket inspections are random. Incorrect tickets sometimes go unnoticed because inspectors check only occasionally. However, it is best to avoid taking chances as if the ticket is not valid, the customer can get a fine of $400. Note that the ticket machines should now all be bilingual in English and French. The two downtown stations have staffed ticket booths Monday to Friday, but not in the evenings. Other stations may also have booths but generally only during either the morning or afternoon rush hour.

Jagannath Rath Yatra

Just imagine you haven't seen your most beloved one for a protracted time. would not a reunion with him or her be the explanation for your paramount pleasure? however one thing completely different happened concerning 5000 years ago, when the reunion of 2 most intimate parties had been the explanation for enhanced separation. The divine brothers, Krishna and Balarama had enacted their enchanting childhood pastimes at Vrindavan. They captivated the hearts of the residents there, most in order that they might not bear even an instant of separation from the brothers. however this happiness didn't stick with the Vrajavasis for a protracted time. When Krishna and Balarama were still young kids, unexpectedly their uncle Akrura took them to Mathura, leaving the tender hearts of the residents of Vrindavan devastated.

when many decades, on daily of solar eclipse, Krishna and Balarama along withtheir sister Subhadra came to the pilgrimage web site of Kurukshetra to own holy baths. Knowing that Krishna was returning to Kurukshetra, the residents of Vrindavan conjointly came there to satisfy him. though the sight of Krishna revived their lives, the residents of Vrindavan simultaneously felt extreme separation when reunion with Krishna. the rationale being, each relationship has an inherent mood that forms the premise of such bonding. which mood usually demands a selected atmosphere and even outfits. The Vrajavasis who were familiar with see Krishna as an easy cowherd boy holding a flute in his hand, couldn't appreciate this manner of their beloved as a royal prince of the kingly order. meaning to have his association once more in his charming sort of Gopal, they pulled the chariots of Krishna, Balaram and Subhadra inside their hearts towards Vrindavan. This earnest invite of Vrajavasis later turned out to be the grandest and most well liked event on this planet known as 'Jagannath Ratha Yatra.' This competition of chariots, conjointly known as by the names Gundicha Yatra, Ghosa Yatra,Navadina Yatra & Dasavatara Yatra is widely known per annum at JagannathPuri within the state of Orissa. historically the utsava murtis or the representative deities of a temple are taken out for procession. however in Jagannath Puri, the presiding picket deities of Lord Jagannath, Baladeva and Subhadra along side the celestial wheel Sudarshana, are taken out for procession throughout the Jagannath Ratha yatra. the large colourful chariots are drawn by thousands of devotees to the Gundicha temple.

Ratha yatra is that the day when Jagannath, the Lord of the Universe bestows His causeless mercy on each living entity by personally initiating of His abode. Saints and scriptures have repeatedly glorified the sanctity of this most special and auspicious competition. A glimpse of Lord Jagannatha on the chariot is taken into account most auspicious. Even slightly of the chariot or the ropes with that they're being pulled is enough to confer the results of many pious deeds or penance for ages. Srila Prabhupada, the founder acharya of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness took this most magnificient manifestation of mercy of the Supreme Lord, to varied components of the planet and thousands of Ratha yatras are being held over many cities worldwide nowadays by ISKCON.

Most weird travel requests

From asking a consulate Prince Charles' shoe size, to why ruined castles are designed, tourists are bobbing up with the foremost zany travel queries

Sure, travel arouses excitement, curiosity even however this one borders on the wacky. Recently, a news web site mentioned that The British consulate has revealed, travelers have created a variety| of weird requests like requesting the phonephone number of Phil Collins and Prince Charles' shoe size. a person rang the consulate in Sydney to raise what garments he ought to pack for his vacation, whereas another in Sofia, Bulgaria, needed the consulate to sell his house for him, a news major reported.

It's weirdville alright! 

Artist Seema Narayan reveals a couple of fun anecdotes from her last year's Scotland vacation along with her husband. "We were a travel cluster of concerning twenty and every day somebody would come back up with one thing weird to raise the travel co-coordinator. One day, there was this young girl who asked if Nessie (the fabled lake monster) was ever fed, and if so, when....it very created us laugh," she says.

Advertising government Ramila Sharma conjointly includes a howler to share. "I had gone to UK for a piece trip and took a sightseeing tour too. and that i was thus amazed when somebody piped up, 'why do they build such a lot of ruined castles and abbeys in England'; i am unable to stop laughing once I consider it," he grins.

While a person is alleged to possess known as the consulate in Florida to report that there have been ants in his vacation villa and asked for recommendation on what he ought to do, Indian travel company coordinator Nisha Phillip remembers one that she heard right here on home turf. "I was accompanying this cluster of women on a coastal sojourn and one amongst them, asked me, 'so that beach is closest to the ocean in India'? i used to be too flabbergasted to reply and then released she was a simpleton," she smiles.

The right inquiries to ask:

What is included and excluded within the trip?

How do i purchase the simplest deal on airfare?

How am i able to keep the budget in check?

Do i would like trip insurance?

Where are the nice spots to eat and drink at?

Time stops on Kolkatas Sudder Street

It's not simply another bylane of Kolkata. Sudder Street is understood to interrupt down barriers betweeen foreigners and locals creating it one amongst the most-loved hangouts for tourists in Kolkata. 

It's a world where the color of your skin, your faith, your nationality does not matter, where the walls of a class-conscious society break down unconsciously, where chai stall vendors provide directions to the yank tourist in yank accent and also the British tourist in a very British accent. Come, sit down, admire the graffiti and sip some chai on the makeshift benches of Sudder Street! 

This space is vastly widespread with foreign tourists attributable to a budget accommodation and food offered. Crude wanting foreign exchange kiosks line up the sidewalk jostling for house with retailers selling pajamas, cotton shirts, skirts and baggage. However, the most attractions of Sudder Street are the wall graffiti. A refreshing amendment from the politically charged ones that we have a tendency to normally encounter on the streets of Kolkata, Sudder Street's graffiti border on the trippy to the obscure and outright funny. 

A walk on Sudder Street is usually recommended for all travellers travelling to Kolkata.

Valentine Women prefer to bring their children into the world

The Valentine's Day , a date that lovers around the world commemorate the mutual expression of love is also the time chosen by women to give birth to their children , according to a study that analyzes the influence of beliefs in human body functions. Evidenced by a recent investigation by the Yale University performed on millions of birth certificates in recent years in America. On 14 February the natural births rose by 3.6 percent and cesarean at 12.1 percent. Instead, the day that we celebrate Halloween (witches night, Oct. 31) natural births fell by 5.3 percent and caesarean sections showed a decrease of 16.9 percent. "The partnership between the two dates has never been investigated so far. Our research suggests that beliefs derived from our culture can have a major impact on body functions, to the point of influencing not only scheduled deliveries but also the natural birth, "said Becca Levy, director of the study published in the journal Social Science & Medicine and professor of epidemiology and psychology at Yale Medical School. The research confirms "that women are not taxable at the time of the happy event but assume a decisive role which can facilitate the birth or postpone it." "The symbolism of the two dates is the opposite. Halloween Day is associated with witches and death and is considered an unfavorable time to be born. Instead, Valentine flowers and symbol of love, is considered an auspicious day, "said Levy. On this subject, also said Gilberto Corbellini, philosopher and historian of medicine at the University of Rome Sapienza. "Today we have a technology that allows a certain margin of freedom to plan and control the date of births with deliveries scheduled but the medicine is, as always, strictly linked to the environment and the cultural and social context. To this point, which may influence the response of patients sick, "he said. According to the philosopher, cultural representations and stereotypes "affect the birth, on the health and even death." "The pagan religious dates can also develop the famous" placebo effect "facilitating the relaxation of pregnant women or, conversely, increasing the level of stress," he said. Beyond indicating the research to Corbellini "it is not surprising that culture influences the preferences and that women are more affected contexts better and to prefer an atmosphere of celebration to bring the world to their children."

Site rents out rooms per hour for couples

Hotels where you can rent rooms hourly rate has not had the best of reputations. Maybe it's about to change. A new hotel site sells short dagvistelser at fine hotels.

Dayuse-hotels.com is for travelers who need to take a nap, businessmen in need of a meeting room, or couples who want a room for a secret rendezvous. Focusing primarily on the latter.

The site was founded by - what else - Frenchmen and hotels in Paris and other French cities, but also rent out rooms per hour in London and soon in New York.

One of the founders of Dayuse-hotels.com, Thibaud d'Agreve, says the Daily Mail that 95 percent of the bookings at hotels in Paris is related to love affairs and that it is mostly women who make the reservation.

Most hotels on the site accepts payment in cash, for those who do not want to leave traces of their bank statements.

The price for a few hours to three or four star hotels in Paris will start from 80 euros. As a rule, they can only be booked in the afternoons when rooms are empty in anticipation of future, full-paying, overnight guests.

Twelve destinations for 2012

Centenarians and tributes to twelve enclaves make the planet in the most desirable. TRAVEL supplement of The World, on newsstands Tuesday, they are shown as well as the best ski resorts, developments in Mexico City, the keys to New Delhi .

New year, new journey . Or rather, many trips ... Specifically, 12, one for each month of the year. Star is the proposal next issue of TRAVEL supplement of El Mundo, in newsstands on Tuesday 27 December. Bicentennial, anniversaries, capital and recognition of various kinds. Are some special reasons make the 12 selected destinations . Miyajima (Japan), Petra (Jordan), London, Uganda, Vienna, Cadiz, Bosbuana, Brazil ... Learn why the same Tuesday.

TRIPS also does stop and post in New Delhi upon completion of the centenary of the founding capital of India by the British Raj. And while a century is too small for so vast civilization, during this time interval have occurred in her most significant events of the tortuous history of India. They are we.

From station to station

Home next issue of TRIPS.

The time of year we are also a mandatory a visit to the snow. The idea is to put on some snowshoes and take a nice walk. Or throw in a hurry on a powerful snowmobile. Or dance until exhaustion at a party in the mountains. Where? At the stations of Baqueira-Beret, Candanchú, Sierra Nevada, Courchevel (France), Grandvalira ... The universe is still blank Macedonia , in which the west is Mavrovo, where the highest peaks are concentrated in the country rock.

The look of journey on the always exciting Mexico City , but this time run away from the stereotypes, the mariachis and tacos, to make our way through the new art spaces, shops and cocktail bars of the megalopolis. From Mexico to Segovia , whereThe Whisky TrailDYC, the biggest seller in Spain. We suggest a visit to this distillery only half-hidden in a natural environment full of surprises.

No missing sections fixed and sleep and dream , dedicated this time to The May Fair Hotel , London exquisite enclave in which appointments are celebrities from all walks. Do not miss your suite Schiparelli, chosen the best room in the UK by Condé Nast Johansens publisher. In The Traveler's Faro know the key to win two nights accommodation at the Barcelo Jaca . Also revealed everything necessary to visit Spain with the ideas of the Repsol Guide while to dig in agencies and websites offer the best deals for travelers. It only remains to wish happy new year!

Devin Castle Slovakia

Do you wish to know the mythical castle where Jules Verne set his novel " The Castle in the Carpathians "We invite you to visit on this occasion, the ruins of a fortress where you can see the River Danube and Moravia found in a landscape that drew up at the same Napoleon.

The Devin Castle is located in the region of Devin in Bratislava, the capital of the Slovak Republic. He is currently working on it, part of the museum of the city that develops exhibitions in various parts of the area.

Its strategic position at 212m in height, gives the visitor, from one of his most beautiful towers - a magnificent panoramic view of the confluence of the rivers Moravia and Danube, as well as part of the Austrian territory.

Formerly, this location-coupled with the height at which he was-he gave the castle, the essential characteristics for an eminent strength.

The view from this point, allowed its successive occupants, control the main trade routes and military steps. These were established mainly along the Danube from ancient times.

In fact, the area has been inhabited since found prehistory and also have passed through it, Celts and Romans, and even the very Napoleon, who in 1809 destroyed much of the castle. The Romans, have given the complex, one of the most ancient Christian churches in Slovakia.

Today we can see the ruins at the base of the castle.

His story

Its foundation is given in the eighth century, and their participation was definitive in wars held between Moravia and France . It began as a strong call Dowina (girl in old Slavic language) and in subsequent years was expanded and renovated into a stone castle, before the thirteenth century.

The medieval castle stone was built with the aim of defending the western border of the Kingdom of Hungary and in the year 1320, was baptized under the name "Devin Castelanus." XVth century, enriched it with the addition of a palace.

Jules Verne and other stories

As I mentioned above lines, it is said, Devin has inspired the famous writer Jules Verne. The castle that Verne describes in his novel "The Castle in the Carpathians", takes its essence of this quote, although in outline, the story is located in Transylvania.

Some days in Ireland for Christmas

Day 26 is St. Stephen: young people noisily parade procession.

New Year's Eve the house is cleaned thoroughly as a good omen.

The day is celebrated January 6 Nollaig na mBan, a tradition that men are responsible for cooking and other preparations.

Ireland is an ideal destination to enjoy Christmas. His landscapes, legends, myths and history and, above all, their culture, who knows seamlessly combine the best of yesterday and today . Their traditions are mostly Catholic, as is the country, but always with the peculiarities of Irish idiosyncrasy. For the Christmas market of '12 Days of Christmas' One of the most unique traditions of the Irish Christmas decorations is the placement of a candle at the entrance or in some of the windows of the house. The candle is lit by the youngest of the house on Christmas Eve and it is a symbol to welcome the Holy Family and may only be extinguished by a girl or woman named Mary.   Christmas markets always occupy a special place in the events that make up the celebrations of this time in Ireland . Dublin is very popular '12 Days of Christmas', a Christmas market that takes place in the Docklands .

St. Stephen Festival

On December 26, the day of St. Stephen, is one of the most deep-rooted festivals of Ireland . During this day we celebrate the Wren Boys throughout all of Ireland but especially in the small town of Dingle in County Kerry. In St.Stephen youth, dressed in masks and suits, are asking for money Young people come to Street outlandishly loud clothes and parade in procession. Are usually dressed in masks and suits asking for money and singing their traditional songs, and anyone who gives them that gift, he was given a pen full of good luck . On this day also celebrated two important events related to riding , as St . Stephens was the patron saint of horses: in Dublin , Leopardstown Christmas Racing Festival and The Limerick Racing Festival, both from the 26th until December 29th. The New Year's Eve, December 31 , it is customary to clean house in Ireland thoroughly as a good omen and good luck in the coming year. They fill the house and winery supplies of firewood for the night of 31 with the hope that the new year is just as plentiful.

Eating and drinking

The day is celebrated January 6 Nollaig na mBan , a tradition that the men of the house is responsible for the day of cooking and other preparations for women to rest and not worry about anything. As meals, most typically on the night of Christmas Eve is taken as a dessert plum pudding , steamed sweet made an elaborate sauce served with cognac and butter and enjoy Christmas dinner duck, goose or pheasant stuffed with potatoes and apple sauce and typical foot mince (mince pies). All can be accompanied by mulled wine , a sort of hot red wine is added spice and cinnamon.

Florida wants to be the destination for Nude European Tourists

Pasco County is a classic nude in the U.S. for over 70 years.

They estimate that there could be 19 million European nudists.

The municipality of Florida will spend public money on an advertising campaign in France, Germany, Holland and Britain.

Nudity is also a way of tourism and its "practitioners" can be an object of desire of many tourist areas. A town of Florida , with nudist beaches for nearly 70 years , it is clear, and now you want to attract European nudists.

For over 70 years

The Pasco County , in western Florida this week agreed to invest public funds to promote itself as a destination for nudists, an initiative that aims to promote European tourism in the area. Looking for European tourists in low season: July and August this municipality is the United States with the highest offer in this regard , but until now never had happened spend taxpayer money to advertise this aspect. The town granted public funds to the Association for the Development of Pasco Area Naturist, which responsible for trying to attract Europeans interested in nudism in this area of Florida . According to the daily Tampa Tribune , the campaign seeks to promote the influx of European tourists during the hot months of July and August , which in this state are considered low season . Those months, the ambitious tourist complex built for visitors nudists have a very low occupancy.

19 million potential visitors

Advertising Pasco County nudist destined will focus on France, Germany, Holland and Britain . There, they estimate, more than 19 million practicing nudist. In summer there is what tourists "We have multiple complex next to each other, but in summer vacations we do not have are tourists . We were told that we built and would come But the fact is that we have built and the tourists do not know it, "said the president of the association, Paul Brenot, the television channel ABC News .

Fuerteventura is committed to its volcanoes as tourist

The council will include volcanoes in the island to offer visitors.

They're going to put trails in volcanic areas of interest and create bird observatories and landscapes.

The project will maintain its seal of Biosphere Reserve.

The Canary Islands are a sun and beach destination, a place of rest. But reducing the attractiveness of the islands only to that would be grossly unfair. The peculiar nature of Canary makes these unique islands. Its geography, its landscapes are of incomparable beauty. Part of that different natural assets are its volcanoes . Lanzarote has long been showing its underground treasures, El Hierro has begun to take advantage of its recent seismic events, and now Fuerteventura also wants to "sell" their volcanoes.

A volcanic experience

The project 'Canary volcanic experience' diversify the range of leisure and open new business opportunities and employment associated with the concept of sustainable tourism. The background paper, the catalog of volcanoes on the island is now a reality. in value is placed inside the island and its sea The project, which will give value to the inland sea, serve to maintain the seal Biosphere Reserve . 'Canary volcanic experience' is divided into three installments (2011-2013) and has a budget of 766,667 euros to cover by the Cabildo of Fuerteventura (31%), the Canary Islands Government (31 %), Turespaña (31% and the Association of Hotel and Tourism Fuerteventura (7%). Once developed the technical study and inventory of resources volcano of Fuerteventura, is now entering its second phase.

Bringing tourism volcanoes

In 2012 is planned to develop various activities such as fitness trails in volcanic areas of interest (in 2011 and these works were undertaken in Tindaya, Pico de la Zarza and Gairia boiler) , these signaling pathways (the pathways and the specific geological transit), building observatories (of birds and landscapes), training of guides and tour operators in the product 'volcanoes', promotion of this product in tourist areas (hotels, airport, port, museums ...) and development of material specific media promotion. In short, as the president of the Association of Hotel and Tourism Fuerteventura, Antonio Ant, "is very interesting that the tourist is alternative to the sun and the beach .

Easter Island myth and reality of a culture

Rapa Nui is considered the largest outdoor museum in the world.

The island has played host cultures as the Inca or the Maya.

There are over 900 of its famous megalithic statues called Moai.

Easter Island , called by its inhabitants Rapa Nui or Te Pito Te Henua is the most remote inhabited island in the world. It developed a more complex cultures, comparable only with great megalithic cultures (Egyptian, Inca, Maya) - in extreme isolation. Myth and reality are confused in this area that gave rise to a unique culture, which makes Rapa Nui a valuable archaeological treasure that crosses the borders of Chile .

Rapanui and Spanish

Rapa Nui is the name of the ethnic group inhabiting the Easter Island . This name was later extended to Aboriginal people for their language and the island they inhabit. Moai and Ahu decorate the entire coastline Currently Spanish is the official language of the island, although the rapanui is protected by law, from the approval in Chile in 1990 of the 'Indian Act. " Rapa Nui National Park was designated by UNESCO in 1995 as a World Heritage Site . Easter Island is considered the largest outdoor museum in the world.

Moai and Ahu

The megalithic landscape surprises with its religio-political centers dedicated to the spirits of the ancestors, who were deified and represented in statues megalithic or Moai . More than 900 270 Moai and Ahu or altars, decorate the entire coastline and part of the land as sacred interiors. In terms of existing islets against the cliff of Rano Kau and Kari Kari , are protected as a Nature Sanctuary since 1976.

Krakow Spiritual Capital of Poland

Its old town is one of the most beautiful in the world.

Nowa Huta allows us to know what life was like in the years of communism.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, the first registered World Heritage List, are a maze of 300 kilometers underground.

Krakow, with its 700,000 inhabitants, is perhaps the Polish city more European feeling. The so-called "Slavic Rome" is a true "crossroads." Located close to the Czech and Slovak borders, was a vital location on trade routes in Europe. Today, Warsaw will be the official capital of Poland, but Krakow is its spiritual capital. The beauty of this city watered by the Vistula River is palpable in its historic center, in 1978 declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . It is claimed that this old "almond", chaired by the imposing Market Square, is one of the most beautiful old towns in the world (which was saved from the bombing of the World War II).

The Jewish quarter of 'Schindler's List'

Whatever the chosen door, the most spectacular is that of St. Florian, the old protective wall safe and Krakow, the road leads to the Plaza del Mercado ("Rynek Glowny"). Then, the largest square of medieval Europe , which has preserved its positions Cloth Lonja, the tower of City Hall, the churches of St. Mary and St. Adalbert, mansions and houses that surround this unique stage of Poland . Since 1978 , its old town is a World Heritage Site must walk along the Camino Real in the direction of the Barbican, which was part of the defensive wall, stopping before in "The Michalik burrow." This cabaret of the late nineteenth century is still a meeting place for tourists and Cracow. Nearby is the most important paintings saved Krakow: "Lady with an Ermine", the famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci (who recently went through Madrid), exhibited at the Museum of the Czartoryski The Kazimierz district, which portrayed in the list Schindler Steven Spielberg , is currently a "Soho" Polish bars and restaurants that "coexist" with the old Jewish synagogues. In fact, just as the Jewish population is not in this neighborhood or the city are only 80 people surveyed.

Life in Communist Poland

The Wawel Hill is the great symbol of royal power . This hill, dominated by the Cathedral, is the site of coronations and where lie the tombs of Polish kings. There are 17 other beautiful churches in the old city, interest in their appearance or their ornate interiors. You can drive a car 60 to visit a working home the outskirts of Krakow, Nowa Huta offers us an unusual shock. The former industrial area built around the Tadeusz Sendzimir Metallurgical industrial complex, allows us to dive into the architecture of socialist realism after the Great War. You can even see the cars "Trabant" (the popular "soap" in the years 60) visiting a working house and the neighborhood that once presided over a six-meter statue honoring Lenin. More classic, but no less striking is the visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine , recorded in the first list of UNESCO as "World Heritage". In this maze of underground chambers and 300 kilometers of galleries walk only 3,500 meters, at a depth between 64 and 135 meters, but the 22 chambers of the mine founded in the thirteenth century visitors jaw-dropping.

Hotel on Wheels at the circus

The Circus has a wagon Raluy conditioning and accommodation.

Guests can participate in the trials of the show.

The company will remain in Barcelona until Jan. 9.

Who has not dreamed of enrolling in a circus? is likely that children today do not, but the last few decades accounts seemed very attractive plan. Well, who ever had that desire can be fulfilled now for a few days. The Circus Raluy offers the possibility to sleep in what its leaders say is a 'hotel on wheels' . This is a caravan of 1939 has been completely restored and equipped to accommodate guests. The wagon has the usual amenities of a hotel : room with double bed, living room with television, another room with two beds, bathroom heating and air conditioning and minibar. The price is 200 euros per day in double room 50 euros per bed. But the most attractive of this unique initiative is the opportunity to participate in the daily life of a classical circus. Guests have free entrance to the functions and , optionally, can participate in the daily activities of the company, including testing, public reception, and so on. "Almost always act in Catalonia and many people from other parts of Europe who come from afar to see us, so we decided to offer accommodation. Furthermore, these people are usually very fond of the circus, so if you want, we will show what happens between racks, "said William Giribaldi, one of the components Raluy, when the service launched, less than one year . Raluy Circus is currently in Barcelona to present her new show, 'The acrobats', which remain in the Port Vell until 9 January. The show, which later will tour other cities in Catalonia and Madrid pass by in the summer of 2012 , commemorates the centenary of the birth of Louis Raluy Iglesias, veteran founder of the company.

Foreign tourism grows in Spain

Overnight stays by German tourists rose 14%.

The negative figure was contributed by residents fell by 9.3%.

The most frequent destination abroad is Balearics, the Spanish, Andalucia.

The Spanish tourism industry seems to weather the crisis successfully. The 2011 is still a good year. Spain received 5.1 million in October of foreign tourists, up 8% from a year ago. But also, there were more hotel stays and longer. Overnight stays by residents fell by 9.3% According to the National Statistics Institute (INE), the overnight stays in hotels rebounded 3.2% in October from the same months of 2010 to total 24.7 million, while the average stay rose by 3.5% and stood at 3.2 nights per visitor. The overnight stays of residents stood at 8.4 million, representing a decrease 9.3% , while non-residents experienced an increase of 11.1%, reaching 16.2 million. In the full year stays rose 6.9% over the previous year.

Prices vary little

The hotels were admitted an average of 37.8 euros per available room and billed 67 euros on average per occupied room, with a decrease in prices of 0.1%. In the tenth month of the year, the occupancy rate was 52%, an increase of 2.2%, according to the INE. With regard to prices, the four communities, the Balearic Islands, Andalusia and Catalonia , which account for 64.2% of the total weight of the Hotel Price Index, had different behaviors. Balearic establishments increased their prices by 0.8% in Catalonia rose 0.8%, and the Canary Islands, 2.8%, while in Andalusia there was a decrease of 1.8%. The Autonomous Communities with the highest occupancy rate by bed during October were the Canaries, with 70.7% of the offer, Madrid, with 58.7%, and the Balearic Islands, with 57.1%.

German and British

The main markets are still Germany and the United Kingdom, which together accounted for more than 9 million overnight stays in October, with increases of 14% and 5.3% , respectively. Stood behind France, with 6.9% increase, Netherlands, with 4.4% and Italy with 3.5%. Overnight stays by German tourists rose 14% in terms of living in Spain , stressed travelers from the Community of Madrid, 20.2%, Andalusia, 16.4%, Catalonia, 15.7%, and Valencia, 9%. As a major destination for foreign travelers Balearic Islands were the chosen place, with 27.1% of overnight stays, followed by Canarias, 26.2%, and Catalonia, with 17.1%. Travelers living in Spain were the main destinations Andalusia, 17.6%, Catalonia, 13%, the Valencia, 12.5%, Madrid, 10.2%, and the Canary Islands, 8.3%.

Summer Culture festival

The leisure society, which is also the society of hustle and surface drills, which abhors downtime, idle contemplation and reflection, seems to have established the principle that culture is a matter of when not to worry you have nothing else to do . With summer on the calendar installed territories of leisure and long perspective, open before our eyes as soft parentheses studded with promises to fulfill, cultural offerings become a senior option in the menu of seasonal suggestions . Yeah, okay, these initiatives are not exclusively or almost summer as a bathing suit and flip flops, barrier creams and snack bar bleeding, but it is a matter of frowning and severe plan to get in the conglomerate mixture, make no distinction, rigor and trifles, great performances and productions to get by without too many demands. Such a vacation package may be labeled "culture of summer", a catch that will fit in a hip-hop and a review of "Antigone" in key guerracivilista a Jardiel moon light and worth the event, an exhibition of sculptures of bread crumbs. The question is do something and look out these other cultural worlds that are in this, if only for the moment, in the months of summer heat, then we'll see. Despite the fierce scratching of the crisis of culture that ship sails very worthy summer by the same sea of every summer , anchoring at festivals and making its way into the programming of the municipalities still able to spend a few pence to thing. Apart from other considerations and techniques with all the drawbacks and lack of comfort that if we want to argue picky, attend a performance at the Teatro Romano de Mérida or the Comedy Corral de Almagro , with the same starry sky that had at viewers roof for several centuries, is priceless.

Brazilian carnival

Brazil sounds tropics, football, samba, carnival to ... including emerging country. But do you sound like "festas juninas" or "lined"? Surely not. That is why the country's tourism authorities have taken to promote these two fundamental aspects of northeast Brazil. The "Festas juninas" (June Festivals) are, to say the people of Pernambuco and Paraiba (two NE States), more the too familiar fun carnival in Rio , and dancing the "forro" much better than the lambada. In fact, festas and lined closely resemble his older brothers better known internationally, but both have a touch more parochial, more rural. For starters, the festas juninas are eminently familiar, suitable for all audiences . And although it is estimated that this year the city of Caruaru and Campina Grande have gone more than two and a half million people, still have a local air that makes them unique. Family parties for young and old, traditional games such as "Piscaria" in which you try to catch fish out of their cardboard and sand sea by hooking a ring, the "donkey tail", a sort of blindman's buff in which must put the tail in place a cardboard donkey , the universal sack races ... And the food, because it always ends up in food and drink. Dancing, eating and drinking are the three objectives of the "Fest", as in all towns right?. And always in the street with the cool, because the weather in these parts, but the tropics occasionally surprised by pouring rain to be as fast as they came and dried in a seen and unseen. Lunch at the "milho" (corn), which is the king, appears here and there a thousand different ways. From the "Curau" corn-based cake and coconut milk, until the "couscous" world's largest (Guinness dixit) two thousand kilos of maize, rice and steamed tapioca, a native of Africa, not forgetting rice milk of life, led by the Portuguese. And in the midst of "gangs" extras running through the city picking up the food and drink offered at the houses , candy and "quentão" a rum with ginger. Heterogeneous groups representing different sectors of society, and trades unions, the historical characters such as "bacamarteiros" who fought in the war against Paraguay in 1864, nursery schools, to nursing homes ... but all with imaginative costumes, brilliant, full of color. And all dancing "forro" original rhythm of the region very simple and joyful, as his followers. Now he plays with all kinds of electric instruments, but in origin (and there are still groups purists) as interpreted solely based trio "Sanfona" accordion, "azambumba" (bass) and metal triangle. With the "lined" as with many things, it happens that historians do not agree with its origin. Most believe that the name derives from the English expression "for all" (for all), found written on the doors of the dance party of Pernambuco in the eighteenth century when the British were there building the railroad. But others say it comes from the African word "forrobodó", synonymous with celebration. How are you "Junin" trying to make the leap to international stardom.

Cangas de Onis travel guide

Probably the best known city (and visited) the Principality of Asturias , for its spectacular scenery, the activities you can do in the area and of course, gastronomy.

The town of Cangas de Onis is full of history and anecdotes, every corner and surroundings are of interest and is difficult to choose what to visit if you have just a couple of days. I propose the musts in this paradise of nature.

ROUTE CARES
In the middle of the Picos de Europa, between Cain and Poncebos, the path of the "Ruta del Cares" through the gorge that follows the river in one of the routes most amazing mountain hiking you can do in Europe.
Known as the "Garganta Divina", path, literally carved in the rocks of the mountains, is a wonderful journey over 11 miles away from the village of Cain , in León and Poncebos, in the council ( municipality ) in Cabrales in Asturias . If you enjoy this activity climber, you can get information on page Ruta del Cares . I attached a video , you certainly want to come visit!

 To enjoy an accommodation near this route I recommend you visit Arcea Village Apartments Bridge (yes, they are called as cartoons, jiji). You can enjoy 24 hours of mountain landscapes and nature in pure state.

Lagos de Covadonga
Without doubt, one of the most beautiful landscapes of Spain, and arguably in Europe, are the Lagos de Covadonga:

Way through the Lagos de Covadonga in the Picos de Europa, amid the mountains of Mount Auseva, comes amid a sea of green ... Covadonga, and after him, the shrine of Covadonga.



All this enclave is located in the National Park Picos de Europa , the scenery can not define with words ... judge for yourself ...

 If you need accommodation in the area of Cangas de Onis we give you the full range in a single click . One of the most visited by his charm at the Hotel Sucuevas , in nature, if you prefer to stay in touch with the nauturaleza but with great detail the Cepada 4 * Hotel is your accommodation.

Hotel Sucuevas

Hotel La Cepada

If you want a post about a particular city, some hidden place, a deserted beach or a hotel , both in Spain and elsewhere, suggest writing at any post or on our facebook page and we will try to write about what that interests you!

Kingfisher Airlines in Crisis

Great as is the India territorially is common to find different airlines of confidence in the Asian nation, let's just one of these specific cases that of Kingfisher Airlines, Which has operated since 2003, recognized for its advertising slogan "Fly the Good Times" both locally and internationally. To give an idea of the importance that hasKingfisher Airlines  bear in mind that it becomes one of the exclusive six airlines worldwide five-star rated by Skytrax, a merit that has been the pride of the company.

The airline has its headquarters in the city of Bombay, being itself part of the company's United Breweries Group, with the main international airport in Bangalore, taking three more secondary character in the cities of Bombay, Delhi and Calcutta. It has about 71 destinations, of which about 63 are responsible for going through the regions of India and the remaining 8 are related to other destinations in Asia and Europe . Is planned for next year may already be part of the alliance OneWorld, which will mean a greater number of routes of travel to be able to provide. Its fleet currently amounts to about 45 aircraft .

Museum of Underwater Archaeology in Bodrum Turkey

If you want to see the sunken ships oldest in Europe will have to visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology Bodrum port on the Turkish coast of the Aegean.

In its collection are thousands of objects, works of art, artifacts and wrecks of ships from different eras. Among the treasures of the fund ecuentran parts and ships of the court of Queen Nefertiti . The value of their collections has called the visit more than 300,000 visitors so far this year.

Maybe that's why the Museum of Underwater Archaeology Bodrum expand its space by adding new rooms to the 13 it already has. They consider the process from discovery to display these centuries remained sunken ships in the waters, through the necessary conservation work.

One of the key pieces of museum is the Uluburun boat , the oldest aufragio Europe with more than 3,500 years . The remains of this vessel were found in 1982 by a search engine sponge just 50 meters from the Turkish coast, opposite the fishing village of Uluburun.

The museum is located in the Bodrum Castle, built between 1406 and 1522 by the Knights of St. John. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 08 to 17 h (in summer until 19 pm) and admission costs about 4 euros.

Flash mob at the airport in Dubai

Imagine you are about to catch a flight home, or you're getting to an airport far away as Dubai and you are surprised by a massive dance. This flash mob at the airport in Dubai will give you an idea.

For those who do not know what it is this, say a flash mob is a staging by people in a public place to meet, such as a choreography, so it may seem "spontaneous".

These meetings began in 2003 when Rob Zazueta created a page, which began to organize these meetings, which often are created for entertainment, but also sometimes carried out for political reasons.

Today, with little spontaneous about because it shows that there are many hours of rehearsal, professional dancers and choreography carefully studied. But the looks of surprise from those not, is still the best prize.

Shopping in Paris with a personal shopper

There are trips and travel and some are more special than others because they have a plus, something that makes them unique. The five that we propose for the coming months with the addition that are accompanied by true professionals: a 'personal shopper', an artist, a historian. Which you join?

Paris Shopping

Paris always has an escape, especially to go shopping , but it offers Kuoni has an added plus, since it includes the assistance of a personal shopper that will take you through the most famous neighborhoods of shops and will explain what's going on in the Parisian catwalks. The proposal includes three nights in the downtown boutique hotel Banke bed and breakfast, two hours with the personal shopper, a walk through Paris with driver-guide, private transfers from airport to hotel and secure. The price from € 691. Air tickets are not included. New Year in Israel different Nuba offers you an exciting tour of Israel from the hand of an expert, historian, archeologist and expert in Middle East Religions and Science, Titus Rivas. You know the history of ancient Judea, Galilee and Samaria in the first century, biblical sites, archaeological sites, places where he lived and preached his mind the historical figure of Jesus, sleeping in a kibbutz or enjoy food Khosa . A proposal by December 27 to January 3 for a small exclusive group of travelers. Your price: € 3,700 per person. With children at home of Santa Claus Do not you wish your family was the protagonist of a real Christmas story? It is the intent of Travelkids to devise a five-day journey to the heart of Finnish Lapland accompanied by animators make improvised wizards and elves. In addition to meeting in person to Santa Claus himself, the itinerary includes extensive activities for all family members, from sleigh safaris, snowmobile until the Olympics games or traditional white. Departures from Madrid and Barcelona to the bridge of December, Christmas and New Year. Price: from € 1,675 € 2,295 children and adults. A professional photographer Cuba with a walk along the Malecon in Havana while the last rays of sun disappear into the horizon. Or at the Plaza Mayor in Trinidad and streets full of colors to capture the essence of Cuba and its colonial architecture. Admire the landscape and nature in the natural paradise of Topes de Collantes. These experiences Click Dreaming gives you live from a different point of view, capturing all the beauty and contrasts of the island from the hand of Albert Maso, a professional photographer, assistant and advisor to National Geographic. Is 13 to 21 January and the price, € 1850. Put the garde art face A brushstroke here, another there ... some time meditating. Right turn, left turn. ... Up and down, far, near. So again and again, until you see a work of art born contemporary. Who has not had the curiosity to see how it moves a full time creative artist? Plenio follows in the footsteps of painters, sculptors, architects and photographers to put you ahead of the avant-garde. And you are encouraged to speak with the spirits, visiting foundries, know the studies in which they work, ultimately, take in the most current art.

Costa Rica is Green

It is the perennial color defines the landscape of this country plagued by natural parks, there are more than forty-, ecological reserves, volcanoes, rainforests and spectacular beaches. Look at this little photo shoot and you'll see here is an undisputed star: Mother Nature. That 25 percent of the territory of Costa Rica is protected, not something that happens in any other country in the world, says much of its natural potential, a paradise that its inhabitants have had the wisdom to preserve. Check the nesting of green turtles in Tortuguero National Park, walk through the dense rainforest of Manuel Antonio, consider dropping the Arenal Volcano lava from its crater located at 1633 m. high while one is immersed in the hot springs that flow at his feet, admiring the colorful quetzal in the Monteverde Reserve, to emulate the monkeys traveling suspended between the tops of the trees, diving on the beaches of Guanacaste ... Nature, course, has been very generous with this small country located in the heart of Central America and extending from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea. After admiring it in pictures, you just have to find out.

Tarutao Islands of Andaman Sea

Although its small geography is hidden among the mangroves and rain-forest, its banks festooned with bright solitary beaches and turquoise waters of a white coral sand so blinding that look like the perfect destination for a hidden pirate treasure. But really the most valuable are themselves, the handful of pristine islands that make up the unknown Thai territory Koh Tarutao archipelago.

Not intended to steal the beautiful attractive Phangnga Bay or even the paradise island of Phuket , the most alluring tourist destinations in the Andaman Sea. As these secret islands have chosen has been to maintain its natural charm but jealously guarded. Its beaches are beautiful and open to those who come because they do not know the custody of resorts and remain as wild and lonely, letting the calm waves rocking the Andaman. Inland, the softness of geography disappears behind the dense tropical forests . In these monkeys are the masters of their trees and their sounds elicit the island daily. The brooch southern Phangnga Bay is the island of Koh Lanta , where no more land on it and watch the scene of endless beaches is inevitable that outlines tempted to walk barefoot to check the sunny warmth of the sand. The slow pace and blue everything floods and spread of joy turned the island into a paradise backpacker. Perhaps there comes now the bohemian spirit is breathed into it. Today, despite having a good and varied tourism is not allowed the building height exceeds that of a coconut tree. This is compounded by a continuing nature intact tropical forest covering the mountain range that runs along the inside island. It also has exceptional natural spaces such as the National Park Mu Koh Lanta Marine , in the southern tip of the island, brings together a wealth of land and sea with its rainforest and mangroves along the rich coral reefs. 

The customs of its inhabitants ancestral sea gypsies Leh-Chao Thai language, as fishermen are known Muslims living for hundreds of years of wealth of the Andaman Sea fish, preserved in the village of Ban-Ou Sangka . Its rhythms and non-fishing tourist presence are the heart of living a nomadic life in the sea. While Buddhism and the Chinese roots of most of the inhabitants of Koh Lanta is breathed in the Old Town , with its wooden houses supported by piles submerged in the sea. After leaving Koh Lanta sailing south referred to some of the islands in its surroundings, a magnificent brooch Phangnga Bay. Three hours by ferry with several stops that allow a closer look at these pearls of the Andaman Sea. The journey culminates by giving access to the small universe of 51 islands that make up the Tarutao archipelago , and near the sea border with Malaysia. Here the sea seems even dream when one lands directly, since there is no pier on the island, the waves that wash Koh Lipe. So you can feel the pleasant temperature all year round it stays around 25 º C. Four beaches around the flat geography of Koh Lipe. The two largest, Sunrise and Pattaya , surround the island environment in which we live barefoot in the morning to night. And not just because almost all the activities you can do are linked to the seductive waters of the Andaman, but because even the only street-marked by a lively resort with bars, restaurants, massage and craft shops and souvenir- connecting the two beaches in a fifteen minute walk is sandy. From Koh Lipe outermost islands of Tarutao National Park built in the islands of Koh Tong, Koh Rawi and Koh Ad ang are very close. Its rich submarine, considered among the best in the world, bases its protection as a national park in 1974. 

However, it does not take an experienced diver to discover its beautiful and unique coral and the colorful fish fauna hidden in nooks and crannies. The crystal clear waters make it visible from the surface of vessels in day trips take you to these islands. Just a few meters to a diving equipment snorkel to enjoy the extraordinary life of the waters of the Andaman. A paradise of coral and surprising ways fauna-hosts over 25% of the world's tropical fish - which is impossible to tire. And when this happens is as tantalizing peek shelter the white sandy beaches shaded by palm trees offering a break worthy of the most fearless pirates. In fact, the Tarutao island , from which the archipelago takes its name, was created in 1930 a penalty for confining prisoners politicians. During the Second World War, both prisoners and their warders, were cut from the mainland, engaged in the piracy of ships plying these waters. Many were the crews of sunken ships and killed until British forces ended the war was. Since then the peaceful work of the Andaman Sea fishermen and farmers were the only activities of these islands. Kho Lipe Leaving all eyes are fixed on the tiny Kho Khai by the dramatic arc of rocky coastline of white sand that is the symbol of the national park. This small island whose name means 'egg island' is the favorite part of the Andaman Sea turtles chosen to spawn. Kho Tarutao is the largest island of this protected natural area. In its 26 miles long remains a magnificent example of tropical forest is well worth the walk along the paths of its dense forest. This will find valuable part of their fauna: deer, monkeys, langurs and macaques and deer, boars and otters, and a hundred species of birds. Therefore not be left to navigate around the island features Thai boats - longtail boats - not to miss its magnificent beaches, mysterious caves and recesses of its mangroves. GUIDE Directions From Spain there are three flights a week from Thai Airways connecting to Bangkok. From here there is frequent communication with the main airports in southern Thailand: Phuket, Krabi and Hat Yai. travel between the islands is nothing better than to use the various ferry lines that connect all the islands of southern Thailand including the mainland and also Krabi and the island of Phuket. Bundhaya Speed Boat and Speed Boat & Lipehferry . 

Best season from October to May, because during the remaining months of the monsoon make it very difficult the access to the islands. Where to stay in Phuket, The Indigo Pearl , whose architecture evokes the mining past of the island a century ago. In some of the villas of Pimalai Resort & Spa in Koh Lanta, where not only is a luxury hotel, also everything around him. In The Tubkaak , an oasis of peace that has a most beautiful beach of the Andaman coast. Or in the Bundhaya Resort , Koh Lipe, an ideal base to enjoy the beach in Pattaya and the atmosphere chill out that floods every evening. Where to eat Try the authentic taste of Thai cuisine is so 'chic' in Europe that during the stay in Phuket not be dispensed to book in the Black Ginger , where Thai architecture surrounded by a lagoon and its flavors are being immersed in the pleasures of the old Siam. Do not miss in Koh Lipe, the Festival of Boat floating sea gypsies held between 13 and 15 of the crescent moons of May and October. During these three days and nights the fishermen with their songs and try to ward off bad luck rituals and invoke a promising fishing. 

A Day at the Ascot races

If you were unable to attend the traditional horse races to hobnob with princes, celebrities, millionaires, nobles and politicians who attended the social event and most important of Great Britain, join the other quotes, by the end of year occur in Ascot. No jeans or casual wear no shirts, no bare shoulders or backs. If you want to be present in one of the races held in the town of Ascot, 10 miles from Windsor Castle, the landmark residence of Queen Elizabeth II, refrain from going dressed like that because it is one of the essential requirements to view this site as linked to the British monarchy. With capacity for 1,650 people, beyond the sporting event you decide to sign up, this unique space is a meeting of the elegant and extravagant aristocracy of Great Britain, a whole social event to see and be seen. This image gallery shows you what happens in it.

Suji Sanmachi Takayama in Japan

The city of Takayama is lovely and that appeal is attributable largely to the unique neighborhood of Sanmachi Suji . Many tourists come every year to this area of Japan to stroll through its streets.

For lovers of Japanese history this area is a joy. It does not take an expert to appreciate the great value of their beautiful single family homes of wood. Some are preserved almost intact since the Edo Period .

It is a small, pedestrian neighborhood, so it is easily walkable. Among its main attractions are four museums, two merchants' houses, street markets and the fantastic morning bridges across the Miyagawa .

If you have wanted to pay for the tickets of museums and houses of merchants will understand much better what was the lifestyle of this charming city of the prefecture of Gifu .

However, what gives so much life to this neighborhood are the shops and souvenir stalls. There are many great craft items, but what I liked most were the numerous distilleries sake of the old quarter of Takayama.

I will highly recommend this tour by Suji Sanmachi Takayama in Japan , during the day with the bustle of people, and at night, where the streets are empty and only hear the sound of rustling trees and old houses of wood.

Explore Moroccan Desert

In Ouarzazate, in full route of the kasbahs, affectionately Ouallywood tell by the number of films have been shot by their surroundings. I discovered the fabulous fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou environment in which one of the most famous, 'Gladiator', the Oscar-winning film by Ridley Scott. To shoot the scenes of the battles in Germania, Ridley Scott and his team traveled to Bourne woods in Surrey, England. To recreate the grandeur of Rome is served, not to mention a good dose of technology, the sets raised on Fort Ricasoli, on the island of Malta , who most recently used for Alejandro Amenabar staging of Agora . And the beautiful kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou was chosen to acclimate the African village who is taken into slavery and trained as a gladiator the disgraced Maximus (Russell Crowe), general of the armies of Emperor Marcus Aurelius elder until his death at the hands of his own son. Can that many of the inhabitants of Aït Ben Haddou have not ever left the village, yet they know well what is a casting and how it managed to get an extra role. 

And this village, the most photogenic of southern Morocco , has become a classic for film crews. This part was filmed Lawrence of Arabia , The Jewel of the Nile , some scenes of the second part of Sex in New York and, of course, gladiata r . For the latter, almost enough to add a kind of arena to its adobe buildings, because the town was perfect as it was to roll thanks to a peplum, like other essential stops on the route of the Kasbahs, Ait Ben Haddou is a true journey into the past. Across the High Atlas mountains, a hundred miles from the bewitching city of Marrakech , the Kasbah of Aït Telouet first and then Ben Haddou, emerging like a mirage by two detours on the road which opens to the Great South of Morocco. The crenellated towers with geometric patterns that crown his creatures, his or town Ksar crumbling walls fortified and surrounded by palm trees give this last oasis airs that so many filmmakers have come here to look, while speaking to visitors days of the caravans that crossed the Sahara and seeking refuge in this kind of sand on the strengths of protecting the goods they hauled on the backs of their camels. Only a handful of families still living in this spooky town protected by UNESCO as World Heritage. The rest of its inhabitants have long since moved to the humble village which was built across the creek, leaving virtually uninhabited Ait Ben Haddou old. Very near Ouarzazate emerges that more than one city is a single long street in the that line the hotels that house the Nordic many come here to seek guaranteed sunshine all year round, apart from the studios that have served for so many films as been recorded by their surroundings, especially the Atlas Studio, whose visit this itinerary is highly recommended. Although Ouarzazate itself of little interest, just one kilometer from the center stands the imposing restored kasbah of Taourirt , another of these citadels of mud, symbolizing the essence of the Berber culture, within which you must visit the chambers of the tribal leader Glaoui, the last great master of the Atlas. By the way that heads towards the dunes of Zagora and the Draa Valley will dramatically threading between powerful pre-desert landscapes other good handfuls of ksour. But if you opt for the road but you go through the Dades valley, the concentration of these old fortified villages and kasbahs miraculously survived over the centuries is even greater. 

Two very elegant get up in the palm grove of Skoura , from whose slopes surrounding paths are taken north to stand in the villages of Asseghmo, Timatdit or Toudounte, brimming all of these authentic castles of land. Continuing towards the Kelaa of Mgouna, famous for the cultivation of roses, a walk will be undertaken by the Dades gorges or even more impressive Todra , set between the walls of a great canyon of 300 meters, culminating finally in Sea dunes of Merzouga is lost beyond the village, and the whole Sahara, Erfoud. GUIDE How to get flights from several Spanish cities to Marrakech for even less than 50 € with Ryanair and Easy Jet , and increasingly competitive also with Royal Air Maroc , Air Europa and Iberia , a company that also flies to Ourzazate stopover in Casablanca. Flights and a week's hotel, for even less than 300 € with agencies such as Falcon Travel , adventure and different routes through the area with specialists such as Travel Tuareg or Mugam , which proposes a handful of expeditions on foot or by road through the Atlas and the rest of southern Morocco. When to go You can go all year, but the best times are spring and summer. Getting around If travel to the Route of the Kasbahs not part of an organized tour, the best is to have a vehicle. Through Avis can rent an SUV for a week from about 250 €, and a highly recommended for 4x4 penetrate through the tracks, about 800 €. Where to stay The options are varied, but nothing comparable to settle in any of the many kasbahs converted into a hotel, Relais & Châteaux as Ahlan Give or Ben Moro in Skoura, Dar Daif , 5 kilometers from Ouarzazate, Hotel Tomboctou in Tinghir, Ksar El Khorbat , in the Todra Valley, Kasbah Azul , Agdz near, or Kasbah Ellouze (T. 00212 5 24 89 04 59), very close to Aït Ben Haddou, all with much charm but none as luxurious as the Kasbah Tamandot Sir Richard Brandson acquired full Atlas Mountains and from which to make an excursion to Aït Ben Haddou. Where to eat Hotels / kasbah mentioned also have restaurants where you can sample delicious local specialties such as couscous, tagines, the cake or the lemon chicken. The route can be visited Aït Ben Haddou entirely free, loitering at will among the castles of mud, and you can also access many of the Kasbahs of the route you choose. ... Be sure to saturate at least two days in Marrakech, with the tricks of the Jemaa El Fna, the souks and walks in his palm, its palaces, its many restaurants to the latest and nightlife. For some days at the beach, none in the vicinity with the charm of Essaouira. And, of course, dress day for the Route of the Kasbahs with a walk through the gorges of Todra and a sunset over the dunes, either in Merzouga, Rissani or Zagora.

Winter Getaway Hotels in Spain

Do not you spend a few days apetecería break in rural accommodation with the person you love most? We offer some suggestive proposals to 'lose' in charming corners of our country.

Can Mora de Dalt 

not stay with the desire to enjoy the sea in winter! Yes, because this hotel is a magnificent view over the sea and the old San Vincente de Montalt, one of the best preserved villages of the Maresme, just half an hour from Barcelona and five minutes from the beach. The farmhouse dates from the fifteenth century and for 18 generations belongs to the same family. It has 11 spacious rooms and charming garden. The place is perfect for reading, walking on and off near the city. Double room: 95-125 €. Viura This winter make a commitment to contemporary art and encourage to explore the last great avant-garde work of the Rioja Alavesa. It is strongly opposed to its surroundings, two overlapping cubes and large windows that let the relaxing countryside outside all the rooms. 

Located in Villabuena de Álava, is the ideal base from which to discover this land so closely linked to wine and wineries flagship step known worldwide fame as Ysios, the architectural work of Santiago Calatrava, and Marques de Riscal, the revolutionary creation of Frank Gehry . In addition to taste selected dishes from the renowned Rioja and Basque cuisine, do not miss the breathtaking views of the surroundings from the terrace gardens. Double room: 110-120 €. The Pilgrim Way To this milestone must be reached if you are looking to unwind and enjoy life. Created from a palace and a Romanesque church, today is a benchmark for excellence in service and facilities. 13 rooms of different styles and get a palm hailed the trip was unforgettable. Belongs to the prestigious Relais & Chateaux chain. Double room: 120-200 €. La Almunia del Valle Its location could not be more ideal for a getaway to the south. First, because if what is sought is living in town, this old farmhouse ham is just eight miles from Granada, but looking for skiing, is integrated into the natural park of Sierra Nevada. A boutique hotel of just ten rooms warm immersed in a large house with garden, from which products are obtained to produce the tasty fresh market cuisine offered to guests. Double room: 107 €. 

La Casa de San Martin in this imposing stone mansion of the eighteenth century with spectacular views of the Ara River Valley there is no hurry. And no TV, so it's a perfect winter retreat for relaxing with a good book in front of the fireplace or take long walks in nature, coming as it is Ordesa National Park and Monte Perdido. Located in a long, narrow plateau, the house looks like the keel of a boat on land. Within nine rooms comfortable beds, Egyptian-cotton clothing and a welcoming rustic decor ... Double room: 162 €.