The world travel magazine spring summer issue 2014

2014 SPRING-SUMMER

Interlaken

Swiss Adventure at its best Europe’s best

theme parks

CZEcH REPUBLIc Land of Stories

Plovdiv City of the Seven Hills

WluIsNive trip

All-inc rk to Europa Pa

berlin | interlaken | prague | moscow | venice | hamburg | italy | copenhagen | amsterdam

Interlaken, pure Switzerland

interlaken.ch

welcome

Welcome!

To the latest issue of The World Travel Magazine.

With summer fast approaching, we decided to focus on mainland Europe as the region to explore this coming summer.

For picture perfect scenery combined with adrenalin adventure, why not visit the beautiful region of Interlaken in Switzerland. This place is a haven for all things exciting during the summer months.

We visited the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe - Plovdiv in Bulgaria. Take a walk through the richly preserved Old Town and enjoy what this historical city has to offer this summer.

If you are looking for something rewarding to do whilst travelling, like adding a new skill to your CV, why not explore the option of Language Travel.

Our friends at ESL Language Travel offer some fantastic short courses where you can do just that - combine travel with learning the native tongue.

For heritage do not look any further than Czech Republic; a country which has a monumental 12 sites listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We have given you a brief insight into just some of the spectacular sights, but as with most things, you can Global MediaShare Limited 27-29 Colmore Row Birmingham, B3 2EW United Kingdom www.theworldtravelmagazine.com Tel: +44 (0)844-8128-467 Fax: +44 (0)844-8129-467 Managing Director Sharaz Aslam EDITORIAL Editor in Chief: Zafar Saddique Senior Contributor: Eduardo Gonzalez Contributors: Remo Käser, Stephanos Gaitanos, Frederick Freeman, Isabel Bohny, Katarina Hobbs, Vendula Fojtová, Sara Jolly, Chiara Avidano.

only truly appreciate the magnificence of them once you see them with your own eyes.

Summer is usually a time when families get the chance to go away - fear not, we have visited and compiled a list of some of Europe’s best theme parks to visit this summer. There is also a chance to enter our fantastic competition - an all-inclusive trip to Europa Park in Germany, inclusive of flights and accommodation.

For those stretched on time, take a peek at our city guides including Barcelona, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Moscow, Venice and Hamburg. Short and sharp, just like your quintessential weekend break.

And for all you people lucky enough to have the time on your hands, not forgetting the money, visit our 10 recommended must-see places before you die.

So from me and the team at World Travel, wishing you a very enjoyable and relaxing summer, whatever you may choose to do.

ADVERTISING Brand Development Manager: Eduardo Gonzalez Global Account Manager: Isak M’antilla Senior Account Manager: Rafael Khan Sales Executive: Raphael Khan DESIGN Senior Designer: Brigita Butvilaite, www.graphicdesigner2b.co.uk Images: Shutterstock, Stock.xchng, Dreamstime.

FINANCE Accounts Manager: Mahmoona Parveen

Enjoy!

The WTM team The World Travel Magazine is published by Global MediaShare Limited. Nothing in this magazine can be reproduced in whole or part without the express permission of the publishers. Transparencies or any other material submitted for publications or any other material are sent at owners risk and while every care is taken, Global MediaShare Limited accepts no liability for loss or damage. Global MediaShare Limited has endeavoured to ensure that all the information in this magazine is accurate at the time of going to press, however prices and details may be subject to change.

Any views in The World Travel Magazine are not necessarily those of Global MediaShare Limited.

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2-15 INTERLAKEN 6-7 8-9 10 12-13 14-16

Interlaken... An adventure for everyone Grandhotel Giessbach Hotel Metropole Interlaken by Rail with Jungfrau Railways Mountain summer with a dash of adrenalin

18-26 LANGUAGE TRAVEL

18-20 Speak like an Italian 22-23 AbbeySchool CiaoItaly: Learn Italian in Turin!

24-26 Stand out the easy way

26

28-30 BARCELONA

7 things to do in Barcelona

32-34 AMSTERDAM

7 things to do in Amsterdam

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36-41 PLOVDIV

7 Things to do and see in the City of the Seven Hills… Welcome to Plovdiv

42-53 EUROPE’S THEME PARKS

42-47 9 of Europe’s best amusement parks 48-53 Europa Park

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54-63 10 PLACES TO SEE BEFORE YOU DIE

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64-71 10 BEACHES OFF THE BEATEN TRACK 72-74 VENICE

Romance is at home in Prague

76-79 GERMANY,

HAMBURG & BERLIN

76-77 7 things to do...Hamburg 78-79 7 things to do in...Berlin

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84-86 MOSCOW 88-100 CZECH REPUBLIC Czech Republic UNESCO heritage at its best!

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interlaken

INTERLAKEN..

AN ADVENTURE FOR EVERYONE Nestled in the Swiss Alps and set between two gorgeous lakes, Interlaken is renowned as the ultimate adventure playground in Europe. But this doesn’t mean you need to be an adrenaline junkie to make the most of it. The region has a wide variety of activities for all sorts of thrill-seekers, from the more faint at heart to the fully extreme.

Whether you are an individual traveler, a family, or a group, there’s plenty of adventure activities to go around and no better setting in the world than beautiful Interlaken.

Here are some of the more unique experiences all offered in varying action-packed levels: RIVER RAFTING The best rafting in Switzerland can be found on the rivers surrounding Interlaken.

For a relaxed ride, float trips 6 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

along the Aare to the city of Bern are extremely scenic and picturesque. You can swim in the warm water and even BBQ on the boat. To kick it up

a notch, there’s the Simme, which is a great introduction to whitewater rafting and ideal for school groups and families.

Then there’s the mighty

Lütschine – the most exhilarating of them all. It’s a continuous class III-IV river that surges down from the mountains and out into Lake of Brienz. Aboard a 8-person raft, with a paddle in hand, you and your boatmates take on the

river. For the biggest thrill, you can also experience the power of the ‘Lütsch’ from a two-man inflatable fun yak. All trips are guided by a qualified river specialist and an accompanying safety kayaker, complete with all the gear to ensure ‘safety first.’

CANYONING You can’t leave Switzerland and not go canyoning. But what is it exactly? Led by two qualified guides, you travel your way down a canyon and tackle all the elements. You explore narrow gorges, rappel down rock faces, with plenty of jumps and slides to keep things interesting. It’s pretty awesome.

Luckily, there are three different canyoning trips suitable for all different skill levels. The first is the local Interlaken Canyon, which covers all aspects of the sport on a smaller scale, but will certainly whet your

appetite for more. Grimsel is the intermediate canyon, set on a mountain pass. The trip starts with a heart-pumping 50m rappel and is filled with amazing jumps, slides and a zipline. The pale-coloured rock formations in this canyon add to the stunning mountain scenery.

Then the best of the best, Chli Schliere, is a full-day excursion and takes canyoning to the ultimate level. Chli Schliere is a physically demanding and technical canyon with the highest adrenaline factor. It is suitable for confident, athletic people who want to be challenged.

HIGH ROPES COURSE Another unique adventure in Interlaken is the high ropes course. Seilpark, as it is called, is a forest adventure of rope bridges, Tarzan swings and zip lines, all set high up in the tree tops. Eight courses of varying difficulty provide more than 100 different challenges from ground level up to 20 meters in height.

There’s even a series of beginner courses for young children, which makes the Seilpark a great destination for families.

New to the Seilpark this coming this season is an activity called Vertical Rush. It includes four daring elements: a 25m high-line, a super speedy zip-line, a free-fall base simulator and finally a 30m giant swing.

Open rain or shine, you could spend a whole day working through all the challenges at the Seilpark.

To book your Interlaken adventure, visit www.outdoor-interlaken.ch or call +41 (0)33 826 77 19.

Outdoor Interlaken AG Hauptstrasse 15 3800 Matten bei Interlaken Switzerland mail@outdoor-interlaken.ch “Safety in Adventures”, Reg N° 21552-01 Member of the Swiss Outdoor Association Outdoor Interlaken AG is the leading expert in water sports and adventure activities in Switzerland. Our international team of highly qualified professionals specialize in rafting and canyoning, and together with our strong partner network, we offer the full selection of adventure sports in the region.

WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 7

Switzerland

Grandhotel Giessbach

a legendary landmark in the Bernese Oberland

Once upon a time – an exciting story to tell

The history of Switzerland’s tourism and Grandhotel Giessbach are dramatically interviewed. Built in 1873, this imposing building was exactly what people were looking for at that time (and still today). Tall and richly decorated rooms

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in the typical style of the Belle Epoque, at a distance of the quotidian, surrounded by pure nature and the impressive Giessbach waterfalls. This is why Giessbach became quickly the place to be. Although the story started so promising and Giessbach experienced a great success, the legendary hotel was about to be tore down at the end of the 1980ies. Thanks to a foundation the unique charm of this monument was solved. Carefully renovated and kept in style of this “good old time”, it nowadays is still this amazing landmark, offering a breath-taking view over the Lake of Brienz and the

mountains of the Bernese Oberland. It is again a place for magic and unforgettable moments.

Spaces for individual dreams and desires

Giessbach is a place to fulfil dreams - especially the 70 rooms, including 5 suites, are doing so. None of them seems to look like the others. Whether it comes to the view, the room size or fittings, they all tell the difference between each other and are individually equipped with furniture of the Belle Epoque. Apropos view! Guests have the choice between the

Surrounded by Mother Nature

quiet forest side, the imposing waterfall - or the exciting lake view. This distinctiveness gives a lot of possibilities to fulfil dreams and respond on individual desires. The rooms are as unique as the guests staying in them are.

The other perfect experience – dining at Giessbach

Either for a lunch on the panoramic terrace or for a relished dinner in one of the restaurants, Giessbach offers a remarkable range of freshly prepared dishes and beverage options. The menus combine perfectly local products with contemporary eating habits not forgetting the roots of the classical cuisine. The Lobby

Bar is the perfect meeting place in the hotel. Even on a rainy day the fire place invites for a cup of tea or an aperitif.

Inspiration thanks to ambience and distant view

Grandhotel Giessabach is as well the ideal place for a conference or a seminar between 2 to 90 people.

Three fully equipped seminar rooms, the matchless location and the historic ambience guarantee inspiration and a platform for constructive discussions.

Also give the historic halls an unforgettable setting for a wedding reception, birthday celebration or any other festive moment.

What at the time, when the hotel was built, inspired is still there – pure nature around the hotel. The 220’000 m2 (2’368’000 sq ft) hotel park with different walking paths, numerous viewpoints, a natural swimming pool and the Giessbach waterfalls, is a perfect place to relax. In addition to that, the Bernese Oberland offers a range of exciting and versatile leisure activities. These offers are a great completion of the cosy rooms and halls of the hotel.

A scenic journey

Just more than amazing is to arrive by boat and the oldest funicular of Europe, which is also a part of Giessbach. Those, preferring a faster way to arrive can also take their car or use public transport (Distances: 1.5 hrs from Zurich/Bern, 20 Minutes from Interlaken).

Situated in the heart of Switzerland, Giessbach combines typical Swiss Experience: Water, Mountains, Traditional Hospitality and Country life. It is simply an oasis of peace and beauty.

Grandhotel Giessbach, 3855 Brienz www.giessbach.ch grandhotel@giessbach.ch +41 (0)33 952 25 25 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 9

interlaken

Glorious Views The Hotel Metropole**** is centrally located in the centre of Interlaken and offers gorgeous views onto the Jungfrau.

Accommodation The hotel is equipped with 96 fashionably furnished rooms and thanks to the unique architecture 84 of them provide a balcony with exclusive views onto the Jungfrau. All rooms are equipped with cable TV, direct dialling telephone, radio, mini bar, safe, hair dryer and wireless LAN. Restaurants and bar Our Chef, our restaurant manager and their crew, are looking forward to serving you produce from our local partners. Enjoy lunch or dinner at the Panoramic Restaurant Top o`Met on the 18th floor together with a wonderful view onto the mountain panorama or enjoy dinner at our Speciality Restaurant Bellini, which offers an exclusive cuisine in a stylish atmosphere.

In both restaurants group reservations are possible (upon availability). For groups we also recommend our banquet rooms on the first floor.

Every evening we offer our guests exotic cocktails at the Metro Bar. Our bar manager, will amaze you with his cocktail skills.

Meetings, conferences and celebrations We offer the perfect framework for special social occasions from a small appetizer and drinks to a large celebration. Elegant spaces, banqueting rooms, plus our two restaurants are available for up to 200 people.

For business meetings and seminars, conventions, conferences, and corporate

10 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

hospitality, we offer a professional framework and skilled team to ensure events held at the Metropole are memorable and successful.

Relaxation and sports The Hotel Metropole offers a sauna, a large terrace, massage, shopping at the Metropole Gallery, a hairdresser and a car rental. >> from approx. Mid-May 2014 we offer a newly renovated fitness area <<

Hotel Metropole**** HĂśheweg 37 CH â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3800 Interlaken Phone: +41 (0)33 828 66 66 Fax: +41 (0)33 828 66 33 www.metropole-interlaken.ch mail@metropole-interlaken.ch

Bye-bye London.

Welcome on board.

Hello Europe.

Europe one way

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Book online

Includes: easy online check-in, generous baggage allowance, food and drinks on board

interlaken

Interlaken by Rail with!

Jungfrau Railways Interlaken lies in the heart of Switzerland, in the Bernese Oberland at the foot of the mighty Eiger, MĂśnch & Jungfrau massif. The region offers a fantastic and diverse array of unique and natural attractions within a compact area. These include Lakes Thun and Brienz, a high-Alpine glacier world, quietly flowing rivers, thundering waterfalls and a variety of accommodation options from simple hostels to luxury hotels.

Jungfrau Railways travel to the unique natural wonders in the UNESCO World Heritage of the Swiss Alps Jungfrau-Aletsch. Enjoy lush Alpine meadows, snow-capped summits, extensive hiking areas and sensational views â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all reached by cogwheel railway or aerial cableway. Nature lovers and railway and aerial cableway fans are guaranteed to be in their element in the Jungfrau Region.

12 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

the Grindelwald Valley leads from the glacier village of Grindelwald to First at 2168 m above sea level. The wide variety and exciting attractions found in this excursion region include the First Flyer, which is unique in Europe, scooter-bike rides and the hike to Lake Bachalpsee, which is known as the pearl of mountain lakes.

Schynige Platte

Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe

The Jungfrau Railway ranks as one of the most impressive achievements in international mountain railway construction and is today still regarded as a masterpiece of railway technology. After a building period of 16 years, initiated

by Zurich industrialist Adolf Guyer-Zeller, the opening of the railway was celebrated on 1 August 1912. It runs from Kleine Scheidegg up through the rock of the Eiger and Mönch to Europe’s highest-altitude railway station, the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe at 3454 metres above sea level.

Grindelwald-First

The six-seater aerial cableway on the sunny side of

Opened in 1893, the nostalgic cogwheel railway carries visitors up to breath-taking mountain scenery and a popular hiking region with unparalleled views of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau.

The railway’s lovingly maintained historic locomotives and carriages make the journey itself a wonderful experience for people of all ages. Highlights on Schynige Platte, at 1967 metres above sea level, are the Botanical Alpine Garden with 600 different species of plants and many hiking trails.

Jungfrau as well as Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. Often mistaken for castle from the valley, the restaurant and the new Two Lakes Bridge are among the main attractions on Harder Kulm.

Jungfrau VIP Pass

The three day Jungfrau VIP Pass is valid for unlimited travel on the entire Jungfrau Railways network including a trip to Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe, Europe’s highest-altitude railway station. The pass is valid from 1 May – 26 October 2014 and costs CHF 235.00

Jungfrau Railways Pass

The six day Jungfrau Railways Pass is your key to the most beautiful excursions and hikes in the Jungfrau Region. The flexibility of the pass is especially ideal for hiking holidays. The pass is valid from 1 May – 26 October 2014 and costs CHF 250.00.

Harder Kulm

The Harder Railway was opened in 1908. It takes less than 10 minutes to travel from Interlaken up to the Harder Kulm, Interlaken’s home mountain. Here, at 1322 m above sea level, you enjoy fabulous views of the Jungfrau Region with the Eiger, Mönch &

Contact: Junfrau Railways Harderstrasse 14 CH-3800 Interlaken Tel. +41 (0)33 828 72 33 www.jungfrau.ch info@jungfrau.ch

WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 13

interlaken

mountain summer with a dash of

adrenalin

Lush Alpine meadows, eternally white mountain summits and deep-blue lakes: picture-book Switzerland becomes reality in Interlaken. But summer in Interlaken is far more than a mere mountain idyll. Great emphasis is placed on active recreation such as biking, hiking, water and adventure sports.

The rolling hills of the Mittelland become more rugged, the valleys deeper, the villages smaller and nestled in amongst the unique landscape of the Bernese Oberland, lies the Interlaken holiday region.

Interlaken is the touristic centre of the region, where guests from all over the world meet, stroll past souvenir shops, diverse stores and boutiques and enjoy la dolce vita in one of the many cafes.

The region’s largest town is Thun, with around 43,000 inhabitants. Overlooked by the

14 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

whitewashed walls of the medieval castle, Thun’s old town quarter is home to businesses with a rich tradition. The shopping island of Balliz is modern and lively, as is the Mühleplatz, where the street-side cafes almost burst at the seams on balmy summer evenings.

palm trees and eternal ice

The towns and villages are surrounded by a landscape that is simply beyond compare.

The three icy giants; the Eiger,

Mönch & Jungfrau and the summits of the pre-Alps, tower above the almost Mediterranean-like scenery of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Mountain rail & cableways provide access to the most spectacular vantage points.

The highpoint, in the truest sense of the word, is the Jungfraujoch – Top of Europe.

The cogwheel railway carries passengers up to Europe’s highest-altitude railway station in the heart of eternal ice.

castles and history

as in bygone days

Tradition and customs are consciously cultivated in the Interlaken holiday region. As in bygone days, herdsmen still take their cows up to the alp in early summer and make spicy cheese from the milk the animals produce. At the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum, the full cultural diversity can be experienced in a compact area.

Centuries-old original buildings from all parts of the country, well-tended gardens and fields as well as 250 native farm animals bring the past back to life. Crafts such as Brienz woodcarving, violin making, knife sharpening and lace making not only have a place in the museum but are also found in modern everyday life.

The five castles on the shores of Lake Thun bear testament to the splendour of days almost long forgotten: architecture and furnishings of the past centuries, old precious toys and historical documents illustrate the history of the country and people. Classics of world literature, popular theatre and contemporary creations are performed on the region’s open-air stages. In 2014, the Thunerseespiele will present a musical version of Giuseppe Verdi’s «Aida» on Thun’s lake stage; the Landschaftstheater Ballenberg will carry its audience into the «Via Mala» and Friedrich Schiller’s «William Tell» will be staged in the Rugen forest, as it has been for over a 100 years.

meadow are a part of Interlaken’s everyday scene. The more daring, launch themselves into the depths with skydiving or on a bungee or canyon jump.

River rafting and canyoning tours are available on the region’s rivers. An extensive network of hiking trails, from easy to demanding, criss-crosses the region: gentle walks, impressive high-Alpine trails, spectacular hanging bridges and steep mountain tracks. The holiday region also offers a wide range of tours for cyclists and bikers of all abilities. The well signposted routes alongside lakes and rivers can also be enjoyed by biking beginners. But even die-hard mountain bikers will be in their element on mountain pass tours. The idyllically located 18-hole golf course rounds off the options for active recreation in the Interlaken holiday region.

pure adrenalin

The Interlaken holiday region offers everything of a sporting nature. The two refreshing lakes can be experienced through swimming, windsurfing, sailing, stand-up paddling, scuba diving, waterskiing, wakeboarding, canoeing or kayaking.

Paragliders circling overhead and landing on the Höhematte WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 15

interlakeN

5–6 June 2014

Swiss Economic Forum

Exchange of ideas by leaders from the worlds of business and politics

www.swisseconomic.ch

8–12 June 2014

Woodcarving Symposium

Woodcarvers from all over the world meet on the quay to carve in the open air

www.symposium-brienz.ch

12–14 June 2014

Greenfield Festival

Alternative rock festival with top international acts and 25,000 fans

www.greenfieldfestival.ch

27–29 June 2014

Trucker & Country Festival

Great Western Festival with mighty machines and masses of authentic country music

www.trucker-festival.ch

June–August 2014

Tell Open-Air Theatre

Schiller’s classic has been staged in the Rugen Woods in Matten for over 100 years

www.tellspiel.ch

July/August 2014

Lake Thun Festival

The musical “Aida” will be performed on Europe’s most beautiful lake stage in 2014

www.thunerseespiele.ch

1 August 2014

Swiss National Day

Interlaken celebrates with a feast of folklore and a grand firework display on 1 August

www.interlaken.ch

22–23 August 2014

Inferno Triathlon

The 155km Inferno Triathlon is a hellish challenge

www.inferno.ch

12–13 September 2014

Jungfrau Marathon

The world’s most beautiful marathon course leads from Interlaken up to Kleine Scheidegg

www.jungfrau-marathon.ch

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0* 0 .

8 p 50

gb m o fr

Hiking Week Package package may â&#x20AC;&#x201C; october 2014 Unlimited rail travel on the most scenic routes of the Jungfrau Region: Interlaken is well known and popular as departure point for endless hiking possibilities in the Jungfrau Region and the entire Bernese Oberland.

Included:

5 to 7 nights accomodation in a hotel Breakfast and dinner at the hotel 6 day Jungfrau Railway pass

Interlaken Tourism CH-3800 Interlaken P 0041 33 826 53 00 mail@interlakentourism.ch www.interlaken.ch * The current rate of exchange will be used for calculating the acutal charges.

interlaken.ch

italy

Language Travel...

Speak like an Italian Have you ever wondered whilst sitting at a café in the middle of Venice what it would be like if you could place your order in the native tongue… well there isn’t much stopping you unless of course you are happy employing broken English mixed with confusing hand gestures? Yes, we can all hold our hands up for doing such things…but is there really a need, especially if you are the type of person who loves to travel. Why not learn the native language whilst you explore the country or city you are in, it’s a great way of meeting not only locals, but also like-minded travellers, all whilst reaping the benefits of adding a new skill to your CV, indeed very much a priceless

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commodity in this pressure cooker world where standing out from the crowd is a must especially when looking for employment options in the ever expanding multi-cultural times we live within.

Learning a new language is an experience and skill that will stay with you forever, not to mention the memories you will collect along the way. Add to that the confidence it will give you, enabling you to interact with local cultures whilst boosting your employment options for later in life, surely makes language travel a very attractive option when looking for something productive and rewarding to do this summer.

language and wish to just brush up or refresh your memory, then a standard course should suffice.

Pick the location, go with an open mind, choose the right course and you are sure to have an amazing time.

Preparation

What course do I choose?

As stupid as it sounds; the choice is truly yours. The type of course, the length, the level you opt for is totally dependant on how much you may already know, what you wish to use the language for and ultimately how much time you can commit whilst on your

travels. You don’t want to be stuck in a classroom for your entire summer, but at the same time you don’t want to come back from a language travel experience knowing just how to say, hello and goodbye! If you wish to improve your skills significantly in a short space of time, opt for an intensive course or combination course. If you already know a

Get ahead of the game a little by investing in good foreign language learning material, including of course a pocket size dictionary.

But remember, this is a combination of language learning and travel. Plan ahead with excursions in your free time, maybe you will be lucky and catch the La Tomotino Festival Valencia or Queen’s Day in Amsterdam.

WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 19

ITALY

-4- practice

If the opportunity allows; practice whenever you can and wherever. Another fantastic reason to learn the lingo in the country itself.

-5- social

Grab any opportunity to converse in your new chosen tongue; restaurants, reading, friends etc...

-6- homestay

Try arranging accommodation with a local family - sure you will feel you are drowning at times but it will truly help you and your tongue blossom quicker than when in a classroom.

Our top tips -1- goal

Have a clear chain of thought about what language you wish to study.

-2- vision

Know what you are studying

for; social, business or education reasons.

-3- BE REALISTIC

Just to grasp the basics of a new language will take a minimum of 2 weeks intensive study and practice thereafter.

Some useful links ESL Language Travel: www.esl.co.uk Oxford University Press: www.oup.com/takeoffin STA Travel: http://www.statravel.co.uk/gap-year-learn-a-language.htm Rosetta Stone: www.rosettastone.co.uk 20 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

-7- step-by-step

Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to learn too much too quick; learn a little everyday and you will find you retain a lot more.

-8- holiday romance

Don’t forget to remember your new skills when you return home don’t treat it as a holiday fling; join a social circle when you get back home where the primary language spoken is your chosen one.

take off in ...

Also available in Russian and Japanese

Learn a language fast with Take Off In... y Build confidence using the coursebook and CDs y Download all the audio as MP3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; learn wherever you are! y Keep the handy phrasebook in your pocket

The complete language-learning kit Available from Oxford University Press Tel: +44 (0) 1536 452640 Email: bookorders.uk@oup.com

www.oup.com/takeoffin

italy

AbbeySchool CiaoItaly: Learn Italian in Turin!

With its 14 km of arch-lined streets, a museum with the second most important Egyptian collection in the world, ancient works of art, internationally renowned film festivals and world famous sports teams, Turin is one of the most fascinating and mysterious cities in Italy.

Underneath its severe Savoyard exterior pulses a heartbeat which is sure to captivate and enchant the visitor. The traditions of Italy’s first ever capital live on in the picturesque cafés and restaurants of the city centre, while a complex industrial fabric and a first class university make it one of the most important technological and scientific hubs in the country.

Situated in an early twentieth-century building in the heart of the “Crocetta” district, one of Turin’s most elegant areas and just a short walk from the Polytechnic, AbbeySchool CiaoItaly specialises in teaching the Italian language and culture to students from all over the world.

CiaoItaly joins ASILS (Association of Schools of Italian as a Second Language – www.asils. it), Eduitalia (www.eduitalia.org) and becomes a centre acknowledged for German Bildungsurlaub.

Launched in 2012, Abbey School CiaoItaly is now offering a Masters in Italian Language Didactics for newly qualified teachers.

The institute was created from the multicultural experience and professionalism of the staff of AbbeySchool, which has been operating in the language teaching field with distinction since 1996, and now teaches as many as eighteen languages using only native speaker teachers. In 2012 AbbeySchool

The lessons, organised exclusively for small groups, are entrusted to dynamic and highly qualified teachers who, through a direct method and the use of a wide range of different learning materials, enable students to enhance their communicative and cultural skills in a cheerful and friendly environment.

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There is a vast range of courses available: intensive group courses (20 hours of lessons per week), 1-to-1 and 2-to-1 courses, courses for children and for seniors, preparatory courses for the CILS and CELI exams.

Moreover, the school proposes numerous recreational activities as well as food and wine workshops which allow the students to get to know the Torinese people and discover the cultural and artistic heritage of the city and its surroundings. Finally, holders of the AbbeyCard can benefit from a whole range of discounts in participating restaurants, hotels and shops.

In 2013 students will receive a free tour on the City Sightseeing Torino Bus (http://www. torino.city-sightseeing.it/) Courses start from â&#x201A;Ź9 per hour. Discounts from 5% to 20% for university students and au pair. Discounts for long term courses.

School contact details: AbbeySchool CiaoItaly Corso Duca degli Abruzzi, 40 - 10129 Torino Tel. (+39)011-56.94.775 E-mail: info@ciaoitaly-turin.com

Supervised by staff who speaks the main European and Asian languages, the students never run the risk of being misunderstood, and they are given constant assistance, which includes helping them find accommodation during their stay in Turin.

www.ciaoitaly-turin.com

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Corso Duca degli abruzzi, 40 - 10129 Torino tel +39 011 5694775 - Fax +39 011 5695251 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; info@ciaoitaly-turin.com WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

www.abbeyschool.it

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gourmet tastIngs of LoCaL CuIsIne

Language Travel

Stand out the easy way Are you trying to find out how you could stand out and broaden your future opportunities? In our competitive world, degrees are not sufficient anymore; they are part of the expected package along with other key competencies such as hard and soft skills. Bearing that in mind, one easy way to shine and to open new doors both in the UK and internationally is to master one or more foreign languages.

Research by the British Council found that 75% of the adults in the UK canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t hold a conversation in a foreign language, which illustrates the huge potential offered by languages to make you stand out from the crowd.

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have a look at the different options offered to improve your language skills: - Evening courses - At home methods (online/books)

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- Tandem practice - Language studies abroad

the duration, the starting date, the type and intensity of the course, the type of accommodation and even the type of activities you fancy doing.

One other really interesting aspect to point out is the fact that you will meet loads of other international students onsite who will be in the same mind-set as you, which is ideal to grow your network and to have friends scattered all over the world!

Among the quoted options, language studies abroad is definitely the most interesting one! Especially, if you have a bit of time ahead of you as it allows you to make fast and long-lasting progress due to the full immersion into the language.

Indeed, the whole concept is to spend a few weeks or even a few months in a country where the language you want to improve is spoken. Some specialised agencies work in partnership with language schools around the world

and can advise you on the best programmes for you according to your needs and wants. Those tailor-made programmes include language courses, accommodation and social activities to give you as many opportunities as possible to use and to develop your language skills.

The flexibility of this concept is to be highlighted since almost every component of your programme can be customised according to your wishes: the language you want to improve, the destination,

The reasons why participants choose to live such experience are diverse; some people want to spend an active and useful holiday, where the language dimension is combined with meeting people, discovering a culture, trying new types of food and of course having fun.

Some other choose to take a few weeks of language course as part of their Gap Year to have a smooth landing in the area they plan to visit. This is helpful to make the most of the experience since it will give the opportunity to communicate in the native language, better understand the culture and simply have the chance to live like a local and be independent.

Finally some participants wish to have a deeper insight in the language and decide to spend a few months or even a year abroad to really benefit from the experience and give themselves the means to reach their objectives.

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Language Travel

With over 20 languages offered worldwide, ESL – Language travel gives you the possibility to improve your skills while discovering the world. Whether you fancy living in France, Italy, Argentina, China or even Morocco just to name a few, each project is uniquely set according to your own needs to help you meet your goals in the best possible conditions.

The actual trend is to broaden the experience onsite, let’s have a look at a few options offered:

Courses PLUS The courses PLUS allow you to have a deeper insight in a precise activity. Whether you want to continue practising your hobby or discover something new you’ll have the chance to experience that in the language you learn, which is great to develop your skills while having a lot of fun.

Why not trying French + surfing in Biarritz or Italian + cooking in Rome?

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Part time job Depending on your nationality and the applicable law in the country you wish to make your experience, you could try to find a part time job.

This is a great way to finance your expenses, upskill your CV and to put into practise your knowledge.

Volunteer Volunteering gives you the chance to get involved in a local

community project and breach the gap, which exist between the population and visiting tourists. It is an incredibly rich experience both linguistic and interpersonal, which will help you develop your language skills while working for a good cause. Whether in Latin America, India or Russia the concept remains identical: contribute to a locally run project and live with the local community.

So come on and take the next step, when you can speak another language, the world is yours and you stand out!

Frederick Freeman UK Regional Manager ESL – Language Travel

www.esl.co.uk

www.esl.co.uk

Language courses worldwide Full immersion: course, accommodation, activities

ESL â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Language Travel 4th Floor, 24 Haymarket London SW1Y 4DG t 020 7451 0943 e info@esl.co.uk

barcelona

7 things to do in

Barcelona 28

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Las Ramblas

Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gotic)

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Take a walk down Las Ramblas (a 1.2 km thoroughfare in central Barcelona). Check out the street performers, take a look at the interesting architecture, see a show, or stop for a bite to eat in your vibrant surroundings. This is the focal point of Barcelona and you can easily spend an entire day and evening strolling up this street which seems to

go on and on. Not a negative point; but beware of pickpockets which operate in this area.

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Visit the Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gotic) and enjoy its interesting little streets and alleyways.

Here you will find the giant Barcelona Cathedral along with a whole host of trendy cafes, vintage shops and a variety of other little quirks.

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This is Gaudiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s city.

Everywhere you go you will see pieces of brilliance from this renowned architect.

Go see the Gaudi monuments in Parc Guell, located in the Grazia district of the city.

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Explore the La Ribera district, east of the Gothic Quarter, which is considered to house

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barcelona

View from Tibidabo

Barcelona’s most fashionable bars, shops and restaurants.

Visit the world renowned Picasso museum.

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Climb Tibidabo, a large mountain to the north of the city, and enjoy the spectacular views of Barcelona and surrounding coastline.

Reached by tram, it hosts a stunning catholic church (the Temple de Sagrat Cor)

Barceloneta beach 30 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

and an amusement park.

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Take advantage of Barcelona’s seven beaches, including Barceloneta which is only a 20 minute walk from the city centre. The street which leads up to Barceloneta beach is lined with restaurants serving fresh fish dishes on a daily basis. Don’t be offended by the hosts standing outside

each restaurant trying to convince you to try a dish.

It all adds up to the culture of this city.

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7 See La Sagrada Familia – a famous Roman Catholic basilica designed

by Antoni Gaudi but left unfinished due to his death in 1926. It remains the worldwide symbol of Barcelona. A truly spectacular site and a must see for anybody travelling to Barcelona.

HOSTELS, HOSTELS, AND MORE

HOSTELS

amsderdam

Amsterdam

7 things to do in

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Anne Frank’s house

Take a tour through some of the 165 canals which encircle the city of Amsterdam. This will provide a truly special way to explore the monumental architecture that lines the Canal Belt. A municipal canal-bus system travels three different routes throughout the city or you may elect to hire a private boat.

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Visit Anne Frank’s house and commemorate one of the most enduring stories of the Second World War. This museum allows visitors to explore the cramped secret annex where Anne and her family hid as she wrote her

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Rembrandt House Museum famous diary. Quotations from the diary, historical documents, photographs, film images, and original objects from those in hiding and their helpers illustrate the events that took place here.

Explore Dam Square and enjoy one of the most well-known and important locations in the city. Located in the historical centres of Amsterdam, it has

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many highlights, including the neoclassical Royal Palace (a royal residence), New Church (a 15th century former place of worship), National Monument op de Dam (a war memorial), De Bijenkorf (Amsterdam’s premiere department store) and Madam Tussauds.

Imbibe some culture by visiting the dozens of Amsterdam museums devoted to the fine

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amsterdam

Red Light District arts. Especially check out the Rembrandt House Museum which contains some of the artist’s rare prints as well as a precisely restored version of his abode from 1639 to 1658.

Take a stroll in the Red Light District, an area with more to offer than just its notorious sex industry.

It is in fact one of the oldest and most beautiful parts of the city with its long winding narrow, cobbled streets and charming 14th century architecture, such as

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Amsterdam Chinatown

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the gothic Oude Kerk (Old Church).

Visit Amsterdam Chinatown, the oldest of its kind in mainland Europe, and experience a number of city blocks crammed with Asian markets, restaurants and shops all vying for your custom. Amidst the chaos, the Zeedijk Buddhist temple, known as Fo Guang Shan He Hua, is a tranquil haven. This is the largest Chinese style Buddhist temple in Europe.

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The narrow, winding streets of Amsterdam aren’t really suited to travel by car so it’s no wonder bicycles are the mode of transport of choice for the locals. And with up to 400 kilometres of bicycle paths leading just about everywhere in town, this truly is a cycling city, so why not hire one yourself? Take a tour or strike out on your own; this is a fantastic way to discover Amsterdam’s hidden gems.

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Book 10 lessons now and save ÂŁ50*

Call 0800 316 3770

*Open to new learners only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer is not valid when purchasing PDI lessons. BSM reserve the right to vary, amend, or withdraw this offer at any time. BSM tuition is subject to instructor availability. BSM driving instructors are self-employed franchises and all contracts for the provision of tuition are between pupil and instructor. 10 lessons refers to a total of 10 hours driving tuition.

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bulgaria

7 Things to do and see in the City of the Seven Hillsâ&#x20AC;Ś

Welcome to

Plovdiv

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Only an hour away from Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, lays Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Plovdiv. This magnificent ancient European city sprawls along both banks of the Maritsa River and is famously known as ‘’the City of Seven Hills’’, though only six remain today. Nowadays Plovdiv combines a modern and thriving city centre with a quiet and laid back Old Town, everything dotted with Roman ruins in various states of regeneration.

One of the five Bulgarian cities competing for the title of ‘European Cultural Capital 2019’, Plovdiv, with its artistic heritage, ancient architecture and dynamic cultural calendar, truly does give this historical city a great chance of securing the prestigious honour.

1 Get on top of Nebet Hill and take a picture of the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe Take a walk up one of the 6 hills that remain and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of this ancient city.

Proven to be the the ancient Thracian town, Eumolpias, it has grown up as one of the first known city centres in South-East Europe. Nebet Hill covers the north part of the Three-hill Massif. Along with the preserved fortified walls which were a signature of this region at the time, it is also home to a very impressive rectangular water depot which has a capacity of 300,000 litres! Lined with cafes, bars

and restaurants, this journey is a must for anybody seeking history and culture.

2 Free walking tour of Plovdiv (every Wednesday)

Town” to the Archaeological Complex Nebet. You will discover more than 40 attractions in Plovdiv and it is a great way to get familiarised with the city before embarking on your own adventures, whilst also having the opportunity to meet fellow travellers.

During this free tour, accompanied by an expert tour guide, you will be shown around archaeological sites, ancient houses, museums, cultural institutions and also be informed of the variety of cultural events from the Event Calendar of Plovdiv. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and departs from the Tourist Information Center in Central Square Antique Forum Main Street, Ancient Stadium, Architectural Reserve “Old WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 37

bulgaria

3 Have a stroll through the Old Town An absolute must for anybody visiting Plovdiv.

If you only have time to see one thing in Plovdiv then it has to be the Old Town, not least because it combines both the unique atmosphere of cobbled streets lined with beautifully painted mansions, but also because this is where the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best preserved Roman monument lies: the Ancient Theatre.Ulitsa Saborna, (Saborna Street), is by far the most popular street, carving its way through the Old Town from Ploshtad Dzhumaya (Dzhoumaia Sqaure) right up to Nebet Tepe (Nebet Hill). Many of the museum houses are on this street, as are a plentiful supply of antique shops.

The whole street has been restored and repaired and is 38 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

littered with cozy cafes, bars and restaurants, this is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening, There is no right or wrong route through the Old Town and whichever way you go you are bound to find yourself doubling back and walking the same stretch more than once. Just one piece of advice; wear comfortable footwear as the steep climbs coupled with the somewhat bumpy cobbled streets, can take their toll on your poor tootsies.

A small price to pay to experience the real Plovdiv!

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talk Bulgarian Street: ulitsa Square: ploshtad Where is... : kade e....

I want / I would like: iskam How much does it cost?: Kolko struva?

Thank you!: Blagodarya!

Thanks!: Merci!

Please: Molya Good morning: Dobro utro Good day: Dobur den Good bye: Dovizhdane

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Visit an event (concert, opera, etc.) at the Ancient Theatre This is one of the best preserved ancient theaters in the world. It is situated on the southern slope of Three-hills in the saddle between Dzhambaz tepe and Taksim tepe.

Accessible to visitors today, it was reborn for a new breath of life of functioning stage for classic drama, dancing and music, the Ancient theatre is a charming spiritual center of the city in which the today’s culture interacts with the intransitive values of the past.

The amphitheater is open for visits from 9 am to 6 pm during the summer. Speak to the Tourism Information Centre to get a full list of events taking place for duration of your visit.

5 Get familiar with and buy something from the artistic district “Kapana”(“The Trap”) The magic of Kapana (this name means ‘the trap’ in Bulgarian) comes from the warren of tiny streets that cross at various angles.

The streets are so ‘intimate’; there is barely sufficient space for two cars to pass by one another.

Located to the northeast of Dzhoumaia square, this area is famous for its craftsmanship.

Many of the street names when translated reflect this; Ironsmith’s, Goldsmith’s, Furrier’s and Frieze-maker’s speak volumes about the neighborhood’s creative heritage.

Remember You’ll need a good two to three days to get round the sights in Plovdiv, especially if you’re planning on going inside all the museums, archeological sites and old houses. The Old Town is compact but it is built on a hill and the streets and few pavements are made of very bumpy cobblestones, which can soon wear you out.

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bulgaria

How to get there has twice Plovdiv’s Krumovo Airport nd Lo on with weekly flights to and from Please visit low-cost carrier Ryanair.

-to-date information. www.ryanair.com for up Most of the buildings are Viennese in their architecture and characteristics. The ground floors of pretty much all the buildings in Kapana are home to unique trendy shops, including hand-made jewellery, one-off designer clothing and alternative bars and clubs.

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Experience the combination of wine and gourmet Typical for Plovdiv’s cultural tourism is a combination of visiting gallery or cultural centre 40 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

accompanied with wine tasting and fine cuisine. Many restaurants in Plovdiv offer delicious gourmet dinner with the chance to sample some of the finest selected Bulgarian and foreign wines along with experiencing some truly magnificent artwork.

Typical examples are restaurant-gallery “Philippopolis”, cultural centre “White House”, restaurant “Piachere”, restaurant “Salt and Pepper”, cultural centre “Trakart”. The biggest event in Plovdiv offering such experience is the “Young wine parade”, which is held annually during the last weekend of November.

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Ride a bike along the Rowing Canal (Greben Kanal) The 2200 metre long and 120 metre wide Rowing Canal on the banks of the Maritsa River makes a pleasant outing for a stroll or bike ride. Purpose built cycle lanes and the option to hire a bike allow you the freedom and safety to enjoy the magnificent Maritsa River.

No doubt, once you have been cycling or walking for a while, your appetite will need satisfying…fear not, the area is lined with many restaurants or areas where you can enjoy a picnic.

Plovdiv - A Touch of Art and History "This is the biggest and loveliest of all cities.

Its beauty shines from faraway" wrote the famous Roman writer Lucian in II century AD.

Recently Plovdiv was proclaimed the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe and 6 th in the World.

It is 8000 years old.

Main attraction – the Old Town, which nestles on top of the Three Hills. Thracian and Roman remains lie beneath 400 Bulgarian Revival-style houses with splendid wooden-frame constructions dating back to early 19 th century.

In case of intention to visit several countries, Plovdiv may serve as a start-off point to many other tourist destinations as being in the heart of the Balkans and close to two international airports – in Plovdiv and Sofia.

Plovdiv - “Roman Grandeur East of Italy” “The New York Times”, 2012

Plovdiv - #3 in “Top 10 of the most beautiful ancient cities in the World” Plovdiv is the gateway to the mountains of Bulgaria – hiking, climbing, mountain biking and skiing – only 6 km away; also eco and rural tourism.

The area in the centre called “Kapana” (“The Trap”) resembles the London “Soho” and is a place offering space for cultural events, entertainment and trade.

It is becoming the first quarter in Bulgaria dedicated to creative industries.

Plovdiv - Come with friends!

TOURIST INFORMATION Plovdiv, Bulgaria 1 Central Sq., tel./fax: +359 32 656 794; 1 Dr. St. Chomakov Str., tel.: +359 32 620 453 tourism@plovdiv.bg; www.visitplovdiv.com

europe

9 of Europe’s best

amusement parks Only a few months to go until the summer holidays and struggling to think of what to do with the family… welcome to my world! I was recently asked: where are we going this summer dad? To which I hastily replied…to a massive amusement park in Europe….but which one is the question? To help you all plan your summer holiday, I have compiled a list, in no particular order, of some of Europe’s best theme parks, all of which have hotels on site, making them an ideal destination for a summer holiday whether it be with family or friends. The best thing about it, they all offer something for all ages…

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Located in Rust, Germany, near to the amazing Black Forest, Europa Park is Germany’s biggest theme park and is home to over 100 fantastic unique attractions and shows ensuring there is something appealing for everybody. Twelve rollercoasters, a number of unique and magnificent 4-star hotels, Camp Resort and even a caravan site, this place is the ideal location for a complete family and friend’s holiday.

Location: Rust, Germany Ticket Price: Child: £27; Adult: £30 Website: www.europapark.com New for 2014: Arthur in the Minimoys Kingdom

Location: Marne-le-Vallee, France Ticket Prices: Child: £49; Adult: £54 Website: www.disneylandparis.co.uk New for 2014: Ratatouille Dark Ride Disneyland Paris, located in a new town Marne-le-Vallee, approximately 20 miles from Paris, it is Europe’s biggest and most popular theme park. Covering a massive 4,800 acres, it is actually home to two different parks; Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Along with the multitude of attractions it boasts, it also encompasses several hotel resorts, a complete shopping, diner and entertainment complex and an 18-hole golf course. It really does have something for every member of the family. Whether it’s Woody from Toy Story, Captain Jack from Pirates or Indiana Jones, you can all follow in the footsteps of your favourite big screen characters!

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europa Location: The Netherlands Ticket Prices: Child: £32; Adult: £32 Website: www.efteling.co.uk Not to miss: Aquanura: Europe’s biggest and best waterhsow.

Located approximately an hour away from Amsterdam, Efteling can proudly boast to be Europe’s third leading amusement park. Set in 72 hectares of breathtaking natural scenery, the park is home to over 30 attractions catering for the entire family, as well as 28 fairytales in an enchanting Fairytale Forest. Book you and the family into one its 122 rooms at the on-site 4* hotel for a truly memorable experience this summer.

Location: Copenhagen, Denmark Ticket Prices: Child: £11; Adult: £11 Website: www.tivoli.dk One to try: 4G Aqulia or 100 year old Roller Coaster Famous for being the second oldest theme park in the world, opened on 15th August 1843, Tivoli is located just a few minutes walk from City Hall in Copenhagen and is a must for children and those who like to play! Attracting in excess of 4 million visitors in the year, Tivoli is Europe’s fourth most popular theme park. Tivoli is filled with wild rides, green oases, gourmet food, rock concerts and much more. The Demon, the Golden Tower and Vertigo will stimulate the big, while The Flying Trunk, The Little Aviator and the Veteran cars are a hit with the kids. Take a walk through the magnificent pleasure gardens, enjoying some of the world’s most beautiful flowers, or tuck in to a meal at one of its many restaurants.

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Location: Gothenburg, Sweden Ticket Prices: Child: ; Adult: Website: www.liseberg.com

New for 2014: Helix; the longest and fastest coaster in the world!

Rising up over the rooftops of Gothenburg, situated on a hill in the centre of the city lays Liseberg. Attracting over 3 million visitors annually, Liseberg offers something for everyone, forty-one rides and attractions offering thrills, spills and laughter for kids and grown-ups. Enjoy Europe’s tallest free fall attraction; AtmosFear, twice voted world’s best wooden rollercoaster; Balder or a rollercoaster on the side of a mountain; the Liserbergbanan. For a more relaxed approach, take in the breathtaking gardens the park has to offer. We recommend the Lisebergs Lustgård, a new park area where spectacular plants, waterfalls and artworks are interspersed with a dramatic landscape.

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europa Location: Castelnuovo del Garda, Italy Ticket Prices: Child: 37.50 Eur; Adult: 37.50 Eur Website: www.gardaland.it Owned by the same nice folk as the UK’s Alton Towers, Gardaland lies on the stunning Lake Garda and hosts some of Italy’s biggest attractions, including the new Raptor roller coaster and the SeaLife Aquarium, as well as the world’s first Wing coaster.

Location: Windsor, England Ticket Prices: Child: £31.05; Adult: £35.10 Website: www.legoland.co.uk LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is a theme park dedicated to children aged 3-12 years old. Play your part in a world of LEGO® adventure. Plus for the ultimate LEGOLAND experience stay over at the new LEGOLAND Windsor Resort Hotel right in the middle of the park!

With over 55 interactive rides, live shows, building workshops, driving schools and attractions, all set in 150 acres of beautiful parkland, LEGOLAND Windsor Resort is a unique family theme park.

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Location: Alton, Staffordshire, England Ticket Price: Child: £30.60; Adult: £36.00 (When bought in advance) Website: www.altontowers.com New for 2014: Cbeebies Land Alton Towers is the UK’s biggest and most visited theme park.

Offering an unrivalled selection of theme park rides and attractions for the whole family, Alton Towers is the UK’s leading theme park and short break resort. The origins of the Towers themselves date back to the 8th century, although the theme park and hotels are slightly less historic!

Location: Salou, Spain Ticket Prices: Child: £32; Adult: £37 Website: www.portaventura.co.uk New for 2014: Angkor: Adventure in the Lost Kingdom PortAventura, only an hour away from Barcelona, is a huge amusement park in Northern Spain boasting water rides, thrill coasters and family entertainment, all surrounded by acres of beautiful scenery. The park is split into 6 themed areas; Mediterannean, Polynesia, China, Mexico, Far West and SesamoAventura. Home to the highest rollercoaster in Europe, PortAventura truly will provide you and the rest of the family, with an unforgettable experience this summer.

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germany

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Children aren’t the only ones amazed by a 550-metre flight over seven fantastic kingdoms. The new major attraction “Arthur – In the Minimoys Kingdom” is a carefully detailed rendition of scenes from Luc Besson’s hit trilogy “Arthur and the Invisibles”. The most lavish indoor attraction in the history of Europa-Park makes 2014 an adventurous year for the entire family.

From 5 April to 2 November 2014, more than 100 additional attractions and shows as well as 13 European themed areas will be waiting for visitors on an area covering 95 hectares. The five on-site themed hotels make Europa-Park a unique short holiday destination near the Three Corners where Germany, France and Switzerland meet.

A journey of adventure across Europe Whether Iceland, France, Russia or Austria – 13 European themed areas with typical national architecture, foods and flora create a holiday atmosphere. In Iceland, visitors are lured by the wooden roller coaster “WODAN – Timburcoaster” and the catapult roller coaster “blue fire Megacoaster powered by GAZPROM”. In France, too, adrenalin junkies can get their full money’s worth. The emblem of the French themed area, the “Eurosat” roller coaster, takes visitors on a breath-taking trip through the dark expanses of space.

At 73 metres high and one of the highest roller coasters in Europe, the “Silver Star” offers a ride that is not for the fainthearted. In Austria, people can look forward to a refreshing splash while taking

a ride on the “Tirol Log Flume”.

Here, the imposing craggy landscape has been lavishly refurbished. Right next door is a new, 80-m²playground for small children. Meanwhile, the older siblings can enjoy having a go on the “Vienna Wave Swinger”.

In addition to the many attractions, entertainment will be provided by 250 international artists who will

perform magic, juggle and dance and sing themselves into the hearts of the Europa-Park visitors. Pirouettes, leaps, and somersaults on sharp blades heat up things in the newly staged ice show “Supr’Ice in the Jungle”. Top artistic performances, comedy and dance can be enjoyed in the “Rhapsodie” variety show. In the Globe Theatre in the English-themed area from 26th April 2014 visitors can look forward to “Waterloo reloaded”, an exciting story all about the greatest Swedish export hit.

New in 2014: “Arthur – In the Minimoys Kingdom” The most lavish indoor attraction in the history of Europa-Park is concealed WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 49

germany under a huge, 16-metre high dome on a magic island, encircled by two streams and an enchanted forest. Tiny, yet on a grand scale – the dream of experiencing magnificent scenes of nature up close becomes a reality with this themed ride. In collaboration with the renowned French film director Luc Besson, an extraordinary showpiece was created in Germany’s largest theme park. During a 550-metre flight over the subterranean universe, visitors experience seven fantastic kingdoms with all their senses. Children over 4 years of age and 100 cm in height as well as adults can embark on the adventurous journey of discovery.

“Arthur” is a world novelty from Mack Rides, the in-house manufacturing plant in Waldkirch. The ride enchants visitors with a unique Dark Ride and lots of high-tech special effects. In addition to “Arthur”, little, and also grown-up, fans of the brave fantasy creatures can look forward to the “Poppy Tower”, a ten metre high free-fall tower in the shape of a glorious red poppy, root slides, Minos play corner, a Mül-Müls carousel with fun white fur ball animals and the Arthur Boutique.

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into the mood for the ride on the steel roller coaster “Silver Star” and thematically links: boundless fascination for speed and high performance vehicles.

Fast-paced exhibition in the Mercedes-Benz Hall The new exhibition for the 2014 season stands under the motto “Into Extremes” and captures the fascination of speed. This will be compared with situations from the automotive world which test speed to its limits. Three AMG Mercedes vehicles and stunning visual large-scale projections represent perfection in dynamic extreme situations.

“Into Extremes” gets visitors

Sweet dreams in the Europa-Park hotels Anybody who wishes to get away from the dreary monotony and daily routine will find themselves very well looked after in Germany’s largest hotel resort. The park’s own 4-star hotels “El Andaluz” and “Castillo Alcazar” as well

as its 4-star superior hotels “Colosseo”, “Santa Isabel” and “Bell Rock” will satisfy any taste, and not just where culinary matters are concerned.

In an authentic ambience, visitors can delve into the highly romantic life of a castle, enjoy the “dolce vita” or follow in the footsteps of the Pilgrim Fathers and explorers. Starting in the 2014 summer season, a very special highlight will await visitors at “El Andaluz”: Tying in with the new attraction “Arthur – In the Minimoys Kingdom”, three hotel rooms will be transformed to resemble an adventurous natural environment. They will make the hotel guests feel like the courageous hero Arthur in the world of the tiny Minimoys.

The Camp Resort also offers rustic overnight accommodation in log cabins and covered waggons for all adventurous guests. In the tepee village, Wild West enthusiasts can sit around a campfire and spend the night in authentic Red Indian tents. In addition, there are 200 pitches

available on the adjoining Europa-Park campsite for outdoor enthusiasts, who wish to overnight in their own four walls. The Circus Rolando guesthouse right next to the main entrance offers a comfortable as well as low-cost alternative to the hotels.

Fun and events for every season The seasonal concept of the Europa-Park has proven popular for more than ten years. Spring, with the opening of the summer season, is all about novelties and summer promises splashy water attractions and adventurous cooling off activities. In autumn the Europa-Park glows in glorious colours. 160,000 pumpkins bathe the Park in bright orange light. Dark and mysterious figures ensure scary Halloween moments for visitors. For the opening of the winter season, Europe’s favourite theme park

transforms into a giant winter wonderland with thousands of Christmas trees, fairy lights, winter attractions and a festive show program.

Events, parties and more There are many special events on offer at Europa-Park throughout the year. The highlights of the 2014 events calendar include the live shows of the successful TV show: “Immer wieder Sonntags” from 15th June, the great “24 hour Summer Night Party” on 26th July or the Radio Regenbogen mega party “Music@Park” on 9th August. On the “Horror Nights” from 26th September to 1st November, hardened horror fans can experience their own horror movie.

Inquisitive children and families shouldn’t miss the “Science Days” from 16th to 18th October.

Europa-Park is open for its summer season from 5 April 2014 to 2 November 2014, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (longer opening times during peak season).

Infoline: +49 (0)7822 77 66 88.

For more information visit

www.europapark.de

WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

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competition

BIG WIN!

YOU HAVE CHANCE TO WIN: 2 nights at the 4* BELL ROCK HOTEL ADMISSION TO THE PARK and FLIGHTS FOR TWO ADULTS! To enter this fantastic competition, simply answer the following question: An adventure across Europa – How many European themed areas can be found at Europa-Park?

A) 15 B) 13 C) 12 Send your answer, clearly stating A, B or C to the following email address: win@thewtm.com Closing date for all entries is 14th July 2014.

All entrants must be 18 or above. T & C’s apply. Flights provided subject to availability between 15th July 2014 and 1st September 2014.

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WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

Win a trip

blue fire Megacoaster powered by GAZPROM

Find out m to Europa-Park ! o competitio re about the terrifi c n in this is sue!

Pure fun for the whole family ... from 05/04/14 at Germany’s biggest theme park!

© 2006 EUROPACORP – AVALANCHE PRODUCTIONS – APIPOULAÏ PROD

• New 2014: “ARTHUR – in the Minimoys Kingdom”. • Dreamlike overnight stays at the five 4-star themed hotels, the adventurous Camp Resort The gigantic indoor attraction for the whole family! with real wild west feeling or in your own • Over 100 unique attractions and spectacular shows caravan on the camp ground • 17 different themed areas, 13 of which are European NEW

2014

ARTHUR – the gigantic attraction

Amazing Shows

Europa-Park hotels

Europa-Park – Theme Park & Resort in Rust near Freiburg/Black Forest | Germany Info-Line +49 7822 77-6688 · www.europapark.de WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 53

world

10

must-see places

to visit before You die…

1

Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Australia’s Great Barrier Reef stretches over 1,600 miles along the Queensland Coast and contains the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, with 400 types of coral, 1,500 species of fish and 4,000 types of mollusc. Tempted by the crystal clear waters, sandy white beaches and the unparalleled diving and snorkelling opportunities, around 1.6 million tourists now visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park each year.

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2

Angel Falls, Venezuela The worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest waterfall, Angel Falls, reaches a height of 979 metres and has a plunge of 807 metres. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s roughly 16 times taller than Niagara. But such breath-taking scenery does not come easy as the falls are located in isolated jungle. There are three ways that you can explore the Angel Falls location.

You can hike on foot (be prepared for an arduous climb), embark on a boat tour, or enjoy the beauty courtesy of a helicopter flight. Whatever your mode of transport, the effort will certainly be worthwhile.

Great Barrier Reef

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world

Mountain gorillas

3

Mountain gorillas, Rwanda

A trip to the previously war-torn region of Rwanda brings the spine-tingling experience of meeting one of the planetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great creatures â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the mountain gorilla. With only around 790 left in the wild, a challenging trek through African jungle brings the reward of meeting a family of roaming gorillas in their own habitat. Only about 50 people a day are allowed to see them, with each group of visitors allowed an audience with the gorillas for one hour. But this is an hour you will never forget.

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4

Galapagos Islands, Ecuador A cluster of protected islands of the coast of Ecuador is a step back in time. Created from ancient volcanic rock, they house some of the most exotic and unique wildlife and actualy inspired Charles Darwin to develop his Theory of Evolution. Such is the remoteness of the location, jaw-dropping inhabitants like giant tortoises, marine and land iguanas, lava lizards, penguins, sea lions, whales, dolphins and exotic birds show no fear of their human visitors.

5

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Angkor Wat is the most famous of South-East Asia’s man-made wonders. An enthralling place rescued from the jungle, this ancient temple complex was built in the early 12th century for King Suryavarman II. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the temple formed part of the capital city of Angkor (‘Wat’ simply means monastery) that was abandoned during the 15th-century Thai invasion.

Vegetation soon overran the city, but the temple was so well-built that dedicated monks were able to keep it intact.

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6

The Grand Canyon, USA Simple words cannot do justice to the magnitude and scale of the Grand Canyon.

A mile deep, 277 miles long and up to 18 miles through the inhospitable terrain of Arizona, it is rightly regarded as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. View the Grand Canyon from an eagle eye’s view from the cockpit of a helicopter or try climbing, trekking and rafting or horse-riding for that close-up experience.

For the less adrenaline-inspired try the Grand Canyon Skywalk – a crystal clear bridge suspended 4,000 feet above the ground which extends 70 feet over the Canyon’s rim.

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7

Taj Mahal, India

Constructed out of white marble, this beautiful monument began life in the 1600`s as a memorial from an emperor to his wife. Today it is visited by four million people every year and is regarded by UNESCO as “the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world’s heritage.” The colours of the building change at different hours of the day and during different seasons. These changes, say the romantically inclined, depict the different moods of a woman.

8

Machu Picchu, Peru

One of the great cities of the world, but a city where no-one lives, is the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, Machu Picchu. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, this ancient stronghold was built in around 1400 AD but remained hidden beneath the forest for hundreds of years until in 1911 an American historian stumbled upon it. An air of mystery surrounds the city because no-one knows for sure why it was built, and even more why it was seemingly suddenly abandoned. But some 2,430 metres above sea level, it remains one of the most beautiful and enigmatic ancient sites on the planet.

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9

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Tucked away amid the black lava landscape just south of Reykjavik is Icelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most extraordinary geothermal pool, the Blue Lagoon. An ethereal milky-blue lake, it is fed by naturally heated and mineral-rich seawater. For the full experience, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to jump in and smother yourself in the white silica mud. There are also spa facilities on hand, from waterfall-powered hydraulic massage to steam rooms.

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10

Great Pyramids, Egypt

Of the Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World, only one survives intact to this day. The Great Pyramid of Giza – the oldest and largest of three pyramids that are found on the outskirts of Cairo together with that other iconic image of Ancient Egyptian civilisation, The Sphinx. Familiar in books, TV and film the real-life pyramids fall very much into the “have-to-be-seen-to-be-believed” category.

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beaches

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1 Cap o San t ’ A nd r e a , E l b a , It a l y

Located at the base of Elba’s highest mountains, Capo Sant’Andrea is a delightful beach with fine sand and remarkably clear water. The beach has a few houses surrounding it and is flanked by chestnut trees and untainted nature. The beach offers a brilliant venue to relax and catch some rays but it is the dune-like smooth rocks which travel into the sea that offer the best place for sunbathing.

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beaches

2 Cape M a c l ea r, M a l a wi

Sitting on the edge of the massive Lake Malawi, Cape Maclear and the lake area are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The beach is a tranquil delight which is best known for its diving, snorkelling and kayaking, and is linked to nearby towns by a dirt road which is dotted with hostels and shops.

Jeffr ey s Ba y , South Afr ic a

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Located in the province of Eastern Cape, Jeffreys Bay is a beach which caters for all.

Jeffreys Bay is one of the stops on the annual Billabong Pro ASP World Tour surfing event, and it offers some of the best views youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find on any beach in the world. The beach has a Blue Flag Beach status and is ideal for families and it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as crowded as other world-class beaches.

V i l a nc u l o B e ach , Moz a mbique

Vilanculo is a small coastal town which has thatched huts, friendly bars and a fantastic beach which has a great coral reef. Vilanculo Beach is probably one of the friendliest beaches in the world and is a great place to relax, make new friends and take part in some fantastic diving.

4 South -w es t e rn B e a c h , K o h R o ng , C ambodia

5,000 metres of unspoilt white sand beach lined with palm trees and amazing turquoise waters, South-Western Beach on the island of Koh Rong, is the most idyllic beach you may ever visit.

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beaches

6 Beid aihe , C h in a

The beach of China’s upper class, Beidaihe is only a few hours away from Beijing and is a big hit amongst Russian tourists. The beach is surrounded by brilliant restaurants, bars and is a great way to spend a few days, enjoying the sun and mixing with the friendly locals.

7

P a t nem Bea ch , Goa , India

Goa is well known for its crowded beaches and flea markets, but there is a beach on Goa which has cheaper Beach huts and isn’t so crowded, Patnem Beach is smaller than its better known neighbours but it’s just as beautiful, if not more so due to the lack of people.

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Domin ica l B e a c h , C o s t a Rica

Dominical Beach is a great spot for surfers but it also offers great forests nearby and soothing warm waters which are ideal for long swims. The beach area has its traditional beach shacks that offer great food and drinks, making it easier for you to stay and enjoy the beach for longer.

8 9

Pla y a Pa r a is o, C a y o La r go, C uba

With the best views in all of Cuba, Playa Paraiso is simply a beach which has the clearest waters, finest sand, a small bar, trees and not much else, but with the wonder and beauty of Playa Paraiso, you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want or need anything else.

10 Nun g w i, Z a nz i b a r

On the coast of North Zanzibar is the jaw-dropping Nungwi beach with its turquoise waters, soft sand and interestingly beautiful marine creatures which call its coral home. Nungwi is fast building a reputation for being one of the most idyllic beaches in the world.

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Morocco

Morocco Explora have a passion for the sea and a passion for adventure and are here to help you get the most out of your holiday in Morocco.

We are lucky enough to have two spots â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Essaouira and Dakhla where we specialise in Kitesurfing, Surfing, Windsurfing& SUP. Essaouira is one of the best spots in Morocco for surfing, there is surf all year round, the big well hits to coast line from September through until the end of April bringing perfect rolling waves for all levels.

Our surf camps in Essaouira kick off from September through until the end of April so if you want some winter sunshine, perfect waves and lots of laughs come and join us for one of our surf clinics.

Surf camps include your accommodation in a lovely riad in the heart of the old town, all your food, yoga sessions, surf lessons every day plus the equipment for the whole week.

We will also head out on a few surf trips to different spots throughout the week. The day

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kicks off with yoga and then it is surfing, surfing, surfing all the way For Dakhla the spot is remote, which gives you awesome waves in an uncrowded spot. In Dakhla we have bungalow style accommodation right on the water edge, the week is focused around fitness, yoga and SURFING. The week includes 7 nights accommodation, all your food, transport, Surf & SUP lessons, The day kicks of with yoga and personal fitness followed by surfing.

We also run a broad range of lessons all year from beginner taster session, through to a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intensive package and progression courses. Explora run group, semiprivate or private lessons and have new equipment for rental.

If you want to join us or get more information check out our website www.exploramorocco.com or get in touch adventure@ exploramorocco.com

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Copyright: Sabir El Mouakil

venice

7 THinGS tO DO in...

VENICE

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are sold on board the Vaporetto and cost €6.50 and are valid for 60 mins on multiple boats.

1 The beauty and appeal of Venice is clear from the very first moment you arrive, Canals and historical buildings exuding the essence for which Venice is renowned worldwide.

The Great Canal is a fantastic introduction to the city, and the best way to travel The Great Canal is on a rounded passenger boat known locally as a Vaporetto. Vaporetto tickets can be purchased at most stops, only single tickets

2 In one square you can see three Venetian tourist attractions; Piazza San Marco is home to St Mark’s Bailica, Doge’s Palace and Torre Dell’Orologio, a beautiful clock tower built between 1496 and 1506.

3 Visit the Campanile to get a birds-eye view of Venice, standing at around 325ft, the Campanile is the city’s tallest building and offers spectacular

views of the Lagoon and the distant Dolomites.

4 The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must for all art lovers, situated beside The Grand Canal in the Palazzo Venier Dei Leoni, the collection is made up of pieces by artists who are internationally and locally known.

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venice

5 If you require Gelato, ask one of the locals and I’m sure they will send you to the busy Salizzada San Lio, where you will find a small shop, Boutique Del Gelato, arguably the busiest and best Gelato outlet in Venice.

6 The food in Venice is a culinary delight, with almost all types of food available; it is the seafood of the Lagoon city which stands out. Fresh seafood from the stalls of the Rialto and Chioggia markets is prepared and served at a variety of local eateries across the city.

7 And finally, travel Venice on its iconic Gondola’s.

Be aware, the price of

travelling by Gondola is steep but it’s not every day that you get the chance to ride a Gondola on the canals of Venice. Prices between 8am-7pm are €80 for 40 mins and €100 between 7pm-8am also for 40mins.

www.gondolavenezia.it

Flights available from: London Gatwick, London Heathrow, London Stansted, Birmingham, East Midlands, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Edinburgh and Bristol.

Flight operator’s: Easy Jet, Ryanair, British Airways, Monarch and BMI Baby 74

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germany

7 things to do...

Hamburg

1 Hamburg is Germany’s second biggest city after Berlin, and what a great way to spend an afternoon in Germany’s second biggest city by going to the Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s largest model train exhibition.

It might not seem all that appealing but trust us, once you see the model versions of Hamburg, The Grand Canyon and Austria, to name a few,

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you’ll be pleasantly surprised and bewitched by the marvellous world of models and trains.

2 Head to Hamburg’s Port Area to enjoy two ships which are going nowhere, the Rickmer Rickmers, which was built in 1896 and now serves as a delightful museum and restaurant, and the Cap San Diego, which is a gigantic ship built in the 1960’s.

3 Chilehaus is the only building of its kind in the entire city, if not Europe. Shaped like an ocean liner, Chilehaus was designed by Fritz Höger for a

make sure you free up your day as it may take an entire day to really enjoy the International Maritime Museum.

merchant who had built his wealth by trading with Chile.

4 The new International

Maritime Museum contains the world’s largest private collection of maritime treasures, with 26,000 model ships, 50,000 construction plans, 2000 films, 5000 illustrations, 1.5 million photographs and countless other maritime related items,

5 In recent times, Hamburg’s riverfront area between Altona and Övelgönne has bloomed into one of the best dining areas in Germany.

With a large and tasty variety, the Elbmeile has something to suit all dinners.

6 The Beatles were huge in Germany, so much so, that in Hamburg they have The Beatlemania Museum, decked out with a replica of Abbey road studios, rare memorabilia and a huge yellow submarine.

The Beatlemania Museum also stages concerts and fashion shows.

7 Hamburg has many bus tour operators but one of the best is HHB, they have many different types of vehicles but the best way to see the city is on the 1920’s Hummelbahn Trolley, you can board at the Kirchenallee and tickets cost €13.

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berlin

7 things to do in...

berlin 1 In the no-man’s land on the border between the former East and West Berlin, the 60ft tall Brandenburg Gate (above) was the main entrance to the city and is the only remaining gate of the Berlin Wall. Once a symbol of division it is today an expression of unity. Visitors can walk through the gate as vehicles are not permitted to go through it.

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3 Arguably the most famous square in Berlin is the Alexanderplatz which was once the centre of East Berlin.

Here you’ll see a collection of ‘socialist architecture’, including the Fernsehturm TV tower– the tallest building in the city and again a great place to get a bird’s eye view of Berlin.

2 The Berlin Wall is a no-brainer of a destination for all visitors to Berlin. The most famous section of the wall still standing is the 1,316 metre long East Side Gallery, which contains over 100 paintings and is located along Mühlenstrasse between Warschauer Strasse and the Hauptbahnhof.

Gendarmenmarkt origins in Europe, through the Holocaust and to the present day. Informative and thought-provoking.

Reichstag 4 The seat of German Parliament since 1999, the Reichstag is a stand-out landmark because of its distinctive glass dome. Walk all the way to the top of the dome and enjoy the great views across the city, or take a tour of the buildings.

5 An area of unquestioned beauty, the Gendarmenmarkt is flanked by the twin churches Deutscher Dom (German Cathedral) and FranzĂśsischer Dom (French Cathedral), and the neoclassical Konzerthaus (concert house).

7 Those wanting entertainment, and lots of it, should head to Potsdamer Platz a cultural hotspot containing shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, and cinemas.

The Sony Centre includes an Imax theatre.

6 For a change of pace (and mood) check out the Jewish Museum â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a place which charts the history of the Jewish people, from their earliest

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COPENHAGEN

7 things to do in

COPENHAGEN 1 In the centre of Copenhagen you will find Tivoli Gardens, a wonderful site containing a world-famous garden, museum, amusement park and outdoor theatre.

Some 270 million people have visited here since its founding in 1843.

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2 Even if you know little of Copenhagen, the image of the Statue of the Little Mermaid is instantly recognisable. Inspired by a Hans Christian Andersen story, it is situated on a rock at the harbour mouth and attracts thousands of visitors every day.

3 The National Museum was originally built as a princeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s palace in 1746 but today this building houses an engaging and sometimes surprising museum. Divided into prehistoric, medieval Renaissance and the 18th century, it also contains the royal collection of coins and medals.

4 Visit the 17th century Rundetaarn (or Round Tower) which is Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest functioning observatory. As well as incredible views enjoyed from some 209 metres, the tower also includes exhibition rooms and concert venues.

6

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COPENHAGEN

Nyhavn Around the exterior are sculptures of a range of religious leaders, from Moses to Luther.

Tycho Brahe Planetarium 5 Stunning on its exterior, mind-boggling inside, a few hours exploring the Tycho Brahe Planetarium is something of a must. Within this cylindrical shaped building is an exhibition of astronomy and space travel that will delight young and old alike.

6 Well worth an afternoon of your time is an encounter with the waterfront at Nyhavn. Pretty 17th and

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18th century townhouses line the harbour amid a variety of restaurants serving delicious Danish fare.

Don’t miss the seafood.

7 If something is billed as an edifice ‘aiming to rival St Peter’s in Rome’, you won’t want to miss out. The 200 year-old Marble Church took a century to build and features one of the largest copper domes in the world.

Marble Church

Moscow

Moscow 7 things to do...

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seen it, with its colourful ice-cream- like domes, St Basils Cathedral is a sight you will never forget.

2

St Basils Cathedral

1 Get your Moscow adventure started with a true Russian icon, St Basils Cathedral. Situated beside Red Square, St Basils Cathedral was built at the time of Ivan the Terrible and since then has intrigued and bewitched those who have

Beside Red Square is The Alexandrovsky Garden, the first public park in Moscow and the perfect place to take a stroll and enjoy the views of The Kremlin. The Alexandrovsky Garden is a hotspot for the locals and tourist alike.

3 Situated on a lane in Zamoskvorechie you will come across a Boyar Castle which is home to one of the finest collections of Russian art, and is the main branch of the State Tretyakov Gallery. Containing works from Russian icons and a

Red Square

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Moscow Philharmonic (Moskovsky Gosudarstvenny Akademichesky Filharmonia).

The auditorium seats an impressive 1600 people and is the place to hear Russian classics as well as others.

State Tretyakov Gallery Cathedral site was once the world’s largest swimming pool but in 1995 work began to build the Cathedral, it was completed in 1997. brilliant collection of pre-revolutionary Russian art, the queues are long, so it’s better to arrive early.

4 Take a walk along the Moscow River and you will encounter the massive Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, dominating the skyline by the river, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

5 A Korkunov may look like an old candy store but it was founded in 1997, their selection of filled candy and bars is to die for. A Korkunov offers the best hot chocolate in all of Moscow and also offers you a nostalgic environment to enjoy your hot beverage.

6 Moscow’s oldest symphony hall, The Tchaikovsky Concert Hall, is home to the world renowned State

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7 Melnikov House is situated near the Arbat and was the home of the architect Konstantin Melnikov. The house was the only private house built during the Soviet period and was a social experiment which was supposed to be applied to mass housing, but the house which Melnikov created was a two interlocking cylinder structure which has become a Russian avant-garde marvel.

LONDON

BRIGHTON

MOSCOW

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prague

Romance is at home in Prague

When is Prague at its most romantic? In the spring, when Petřín Park is in bloom with thousands of cherry blossoms?

In the summer, when the elegant gardens of Prague Castle allow for pleasant lazing in the shade of its fountains? In the autumn, when the colourful leaves fly along the sunlit banks of the Vltava, or in the winter, when the roofs and towers of the Old Town are covered in a white blanket of snow? Prague, city of a hundred spires, is simply a paradise on earth for the romantic spirit in each and every one of the seasons. Why don’t you come and experience some unforgettable moments in one of the most beautiful cities in the world too.

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There is surely no place in Prague which oozes romance more so than Petřín. You can take a walk on its slopes in the spring among the blossoming cherry trees or have a picnic with a wonderful view over the panorama of the city. Lovers have been meeting here by the statue of the romantic poet Karel Hynek Mácha for decades and legend has it that love confirmed here with a kiss lasts forever.

Come to Kampa to lock up your love An island whose charm cannot be described, but must be experienced. This is Kampa in Prague, spreading out right under the Lesser Quarter end of Charles Bridge. Kampa is separated from the mainland by the Čertovka mill race, where you can see the contentedly clacking mill

wheel to this very day. Right behind this you will find a small bridge, on the railings of which lovers hang padlocks as a sign of their eternal love. The walk under the facades of the multicoloured little houses here, past the picturesque corners and little squares, is one of the most beautiful in Prague. At sunset, you can also see lamp-lighters in many places, wearing period costumes and lighting up the lanterns of Prague, which are hundreds of years old.

Romance among the butterflies’ wings Another place which you should certainly visit during your stay in romantic Prague is the Troja Chateau. It is precisely here that thousands of couples from many countries around the world have already said “I do”. And

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prague

whilst doing so, witnesses to this were the monumental Baroque stairway or elegant garden, which is one of the most beautiful in Prague.

You can have a seat here undisturbed and feast your eyes on the perfect harmony of the architecture and gardening, or for example set out to the nearby Botanical Gardens. If you enter the Fata Morgana greenhouse here, all of a sudden you will find yourself in 90 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

a world of exotic flowers and trees in bloom. The glittering wings of the multicoloured butterflies above your head embellish the perfect atmosphere which you will not want to leave.

Allow yourself to be pampered You will find the true

essence of romance in the beautiful “New World” area not far from Loretánské náměstí.

When you walk amongst the coloured houses here with window boxes full of flowers, take a peek inside. You will often see one of the local artists, who now traditionally choose this unique location for their studios, at work. Would you rather immerse yourself in a world of pleasant aromas, rest and relaxation? Then try out one of the many wellness programmes offered by many centres all over the city.

For more information please visit

www.czechtourism.com

Warning from the heart of Europe: This city will make your pulse race!

To visit Prague means to take a stroll through history and to breathe in beauty.

It is majestic, captivating and romantic.

There are cities you remember with photographs.

Prague will remain etched in your heart!

www.czechtourism.com

Prague

Czech Republic

CZEcH REPUBLIc

UNESCO heritage at its best!

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Registrations in the UNESCO cultural heritage list are not bestowed lightly; there are less than a thousand in the whole world but you can find twelve of them in the Czech Republic alone. Apart from the historical centre of Prague, Český Krumlov, Kutná Hora and Telč these for example include the Functionalist Villa Tugendhat in Brno designed by the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the historical gardens and chateau in Kroměříž and the Pilgrimage Church of St. John of Nepomuk steeped in symbolism in Žďár nad Sázavou.

We have picked out just 6 of the sites listed with UNESCO, giving you a brief insight of what this wonderful country has to offer for all those seeking heritage this summer.

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Czech Republic

-1cESKÝ KrUMLOV Discover a true gem among the UNESCO monuments – Český Krumlov When you

arrive in Český Krumlov, you will be captivated at first glance by the monumental panorama of the chateau here, which rises above the picturesque Renaissance architecture of the adjacent little town. Taking a walk through the historical centre will, thanks to its inimitable medieval character, leave you in no doubt as to why Český Krumlov is one of the gems included on the UNESCO list.

Český Krumlov Masquerade Hall or the unique Baroque Theatre, which is one of the best preserved in the world.

-2PrAGUE Prague Immediately past the chateau gate, you will find yourself in a world of elegant buildings and spacious courtyards.

Don’t forget to make the acquaintance of the bears in the castle moat, as they are

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an inherent part of the town’s character. You can choose from several sightseeing tours, during which you will get to know not only the life of the aristocracy here, but will also visit the wonderfully decorated

Prague, City of a Hundred Spires, a UNESCO monument and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Get to know it in person!

The Old Town Hall with the famous Prague Astronomical

Lednice -Valtice Complex Clock. The winding lanes of the Jewish Quarter, which you know from the novels of Franz Kafka, steeped in the legend of the Golem. Cafes enticing you to come and have a seat, boutiques and sight-seeing cruises on the Vltava. The Gothic Charles Bridge and Church of St. Nicholas in the Lesser Town, the most beautiful Baroque church in Prague. The Palace Gardens set away from the bustle of the city, Petřín with a lookout tower reminiscent of a small Eiffel Tower and Prague Castle...

Each of Prague’s districts has its own characteristic atmosphere and unique charm.

Prague presents itself to you as

a changeable city, which likes to alternate styles: it is romantic and successful, ancient and modern, but above all it is a city that is cosmopolitan through and through, and is used to welcoming foreigners. It is time to get acquainted.

-3LEDNIcEVALTIcE COMPLEX Take a walk through the Garden of Europe in the Lednice-Valtice Complex!

There are not many places in

the world which have received such care as the elegant area around the spectacular Lednice and Valtice chateaux.

An absolutely unique park has been created here over the centuries, full of rare tree species, romantic little buildings, fishponds and beautiful little corners. The Lednice-Valtice Complex, WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 95

Czech Republic which has been included in the UNESCO list, is known as the Garden of Europe to this very day.

The huge plots of land on both sides of the current national border between Moravia and Austria were cultivated by generations of Lichtensteins for the whole of their reign lasting 600 years.

One of the most powerful families in Europe of that time, they created an elegant French garden and beautiful English park here in an absolutely ostentatious manner. They had romantic little buildings of many styles set into it as an example of the true life of luxury lived by the wealthy aristocracy at that time.

-4CHUrcH OF ST. BArBArA IN KUTNร HOrA Architectural gems on the UNESCO list in Kutnรก Hora Kutnรก Hora, the silver treasury and a true gem of the country, was present at the very start of the boom in the Czech Kingdom.

Architectural styles, unique buildings from various historical periods and a long history full of wine making.

This is precisely what you will find in Kutnรก Hora, a city

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whose historical centre with the Cathedral of St. Barbara and Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary have been included in the UNESCO world heritage list Kutnรก Hora was one of the main pillars of power of the

Czech rulers. Under the reign of Wenceslas II, the only mint in the country operated here. This former royal city, linked with silver mining and the dominant features of its two cathedrals, also offers a remarkable present.

Church of St. Barbara in Kutnรก Hora

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Czech Republic

Telč Telč is the most perfect example of the Italian Renaissance north of the Alps and a town with one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. It is rightly thus also part of UNESCO world heritage.

-5TELC Take a peek into a fairytale in Telč!

98 WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE

It would be hard to imagine a more fairytale -like little town than Telč. A square which looks like it has come straight from the stories of Hans Christian Andersen, a romantic chateau and crystal clear fishponds surrounding the city.

Most visitors start their tour of the town in one of the most romantic places in the Czech Republic. The square in Telč with its high gables on the multicoloured houses here, arcades full of little shops and cafes where you can sit undisturbed and watch the world pass by, is balm for the soul indeed.

-6KrOMERÍZ GArDENS Allow yourself to be enchanted by the gardens in Kroměříž

During the summer, Kroměříž is reminiscent of the Garden of Eden. The local gardens, which are included in the UNESCO world heritage list, represent a perfect symbiosis of light, plants, water, art and architecture. The Castle and Gardens are some of the most beautiful in Europe. You will be engulfed by a labyrinth of green walls, original floral and sculptural decoration, so take a walk along the colonnade and past the historical greenhouses.

This complex under the patronage of world heritage is dominated by a monumental Baroque chateau, whose high tower offers an unforgettable view over the city, its beautiful gardens and wider surrounding areas.

For further information on Czech Republic, please visit

www.czechtourism.com

Kroměříž Gardens WORLD TRAVEL MAGAZINE 99

Please tread lightly!

You are entering paradise.

Enter into a wondrous rocky kingdom unparalleled in all of Europe!

Nature has proven to be a brilliant sculptor â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from humble sandstone she created a masterpiece which you will marvel at with amazement and awe.

www.czechtourism.com

Bohemian Switzerland