It is no question that Paris, France gained triumph when the Arc de Triomphe was completed between the years 1833 and 1836. Not only was it regarded as a canvas of their nation’s rich history. Instead, it also became a reflection of the city’s rich architectural heritage. Yet, the triumphant status of this structure took a long time to build.

Commissioned in 1806 after Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte’s victory in Austerlitz, the arc’s foundation took two years to build. By 1810, a wooden mock-up of the arch was constructed just in time for the arrival of Napoleon and his bride Archduchess Marie-Louise of Austria. Measuring 49.5 meters high, 45 meters wide and 22 meters deep, this landmark at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle at the western end of Champs-Elysees, the arch honors the mighty warriors that fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars from 1803-1815.

Designed by Jean Chalgrin, the iconography of the arc illustrates a battle between heroically nude French youths and the bearded Germanic warriors in chain mail. This illustration of France’s glory served as the basis for a wave of public monuments with nationalistic messages until World War I.

To add meaning to the structure’s foundation, the four sculptures at the arc’s base were also notable works of art. These are the Resistance and Peace by Antoine Etex, The Triumph of 1810 by Jean-Pierre Cortot and the most renowned of them all, Francois Rude’s Departure of the Volunteers of ‘92 which is commonly called La Marseillaise. Rude’s allegorical representation that reflected France calling forth its people, is also used as the belt buckle for the seven-star rank Marshal of France.

Another notable feature of the arc is the attic. The attic above the sculptured soldiers enshrines thirty shields in which the names of the major victories are engraved. As for the names of the French generals who fought with Napoleon, these are engraved inside, with the names of those who died in battle underlined. Also present at the shorter sides of the supporting columns are the names of the major Napoleonic War battles.

Beneath the arc is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Patterned after the United Kingdom’s Tomb of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, the tomb has the first eternal flame lit in Eastern and Western Europe during the year 391. This blaze was crafted in memory of the unidentified dead during the two World Wars.

On November 12, 1919, the state originally decided that the remains of the Unknown Soldier would be buried in the Panthéon. However, a public campaign prompted otherwise. As such, the coffin was then situated in the chapel, on the arc’s ground floor on November 10, 1920. It was then to its final abode on January 28, 1921. Written on the top slab is the inscription ICI REPOSE UN SOLDAT FRANÇAIS MORT POUR LA PATRIE 1914-1918 which means “Here lies a French soldier who died for his fatherland 1914-1918″.

For centuries, this edifice is the best illustration of France’s glorious past. The gallant history of the French soldiers of generations past has been solidified here for everyone to see and admire. Because of which, the triumph that they have fought for will remain strong in the hearts and minds of the present day French. An arc of history, an arc of gallantry, an arc of heritage: that is the Arc de Triomphe.

Paris often referred to as “City of lights” is one place to break free. There are many places which will make you happy and your trip a journey of a lifetime. If somebody wants to choose one place in Europe to visit, then Paris would definitely be one of the best places to visit. From the Eiffel Tower to Arc de Triomphe, everything is marvelous. If a list has to be made (which is very tough) about 5 must see places in Paris which one must visit, then the list must include the following:

Eiffel tower

Standing 300m tall, this is one of the modern architectural masterpieces. Designed and built by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the centenary of French revolution in 1889, it has two restaurants in the lower level while there is a bar, replica of Gustave Eiffel and a souvenir shop on the top platform. If you will go into figures then it weighs 7000 tons but there is more into it than these figures. Eiffel towers look awesome in the night with all the lights on.

The Louvre

Being the largest art museum in the world, Louvre is another must see in Paris. The Louvre’s collection is overwhelming in size which includes many paintings, coins, antiques and sculptures. The famous painting of Mona Lisa by Picasso is also kept here. It has a long list of items which is from ages and also of different origin and civilization. The museum pass cards work here and the tickets are half priced after 3 PM and on Sunday’s.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, is arguably the most stunning gothic athedral in the world. Its construction was started in 1163 and it took almost 200 years to complete. It has witnessed many events related to big wigs like Napoleon, Pope John Paul II and others. This place had witnessed some of the greatest moment in the history of the city. Come to this place and see how the beauty and the ambience impress you.

Arc de Triomphe

It was commissioned by Napoleon after he won the battle against Austerlitz in 1806, but it was finally built in 1836. Major victories are written on the top of the arc and the small ones are written on the inside walls. You can go to the top through staircase or by taking an elevator the view of Paris from here is beautiful. This is one of the places in Paris which is always on the top of the list to visit.

Sacre Coeur

Last but not the least in my list is Sacre Coeur / Montmartre. This church is not painted as it appears to be but the whiteness is through the liquid secreted by the white stone. This place will have a grand effect on you because of its size and location. This is a beautiful place to go and remember the good days once you are back to your home.

Go and see how the beauty of these places mesmerizes you. Paris is and will always be a tourist hub and center of attraction for its monuments and museums.

Malta is a small island state in Europe, in the middle of the Mediterranean and is a popular holiday destination for many Europeans, mostly from the U.K., Germany, Italy, France and Holland. Tourists visit the island for various reasons and the island offers a variety of facets that will be of interest for most types of travellers. This article provides you with the top 10 reasons why booking Malta holidays is a great idea, not only for next summer’s holiday season but all year round!

10. Language and money in Malta

The Maltese have their own language (‘Maltese’) but the country has two official languages, with the second official language being English. Malta was under British rule for 160 years, gaining independence in 1964, but leaving the Maltese with a relatively strong knowledge of the English language, although Maltese is much more widely spoken and is the mother tongue for the vast majority of Maltese. For English speaking tourists this means that communication is almost no problem, which is definitely a benefit when on holiday. Although at the moment the Maltese Lira is still the only valid currency, the Euro will be introduced on January 1st, 2008 and many retailers in tourist areas already accept Euros for cash payment.

9. Sports and leisure activities during your Malta holidays

Malta is a great location for a variety of sports, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, para gliding, wind surfing and yachting. Plenty of activities to keep you entertained, no matter the time of year. Most materials needed for these sports are available for low-priced rent and there are various locations on the islands where these sports can be exercised. Gozo is a particularly popular location for rock climbing, thanks to its steep cliffs, and mountain biking thanks to its quiet roads and excellent hill climbs.

Events, such as pop concerts and theatre shows, but also historical re-enactments such as In Guardia are popular among both tourists and locals and provide great entertainment for the whole family. Are you a fan of watching sports? Don’t worry about missing any big matches or events – satellite reception is widely used by the more popular pubs and there are plenty of appetizers and beer around to enjoy your favourite sports.

8. Getting around in Malta is easy and cheap!

Don’t you hate it when you go for a holiday and it takes you ages to get to the beach or to visit a few cities, museums? Don’t you hate it when it takes a whole day to take one excursion, when you waste so much time on travelling from place to place which makes you wonder whether it was even worth the hassle? If your answer is yes, then Malta is definitely the holiday destination for you. It takes less than an hour to get from one side to the island to the other and there’s such a high concentration of places of interest, beaches, holiday resorts and places for entertainment (restaurants, clubs, cinemas etc.), you’ll wish you’d have known about Malta earlier!

A lot of tourists decide to visit Malta a second time and sometimes more, simply for the reason that there’s just so much to do and to see, and it takes so little money and time to get around and spend quality holiday time.

7. Gozo offers a peaceful setting for your Malta holidays

Malta is not just about Malta. Yes, that’s right, The Republic of Malta also covers Gozo, which is Malta’s sister island and is said to be the island that Malta used to be a long time ago – rural, quiet and untouched. Gozo is a great place for a peaceful (family or couples) holidays, with beautiful beaches and countryside views. Visit the capital Victoria, with its Citadel in the centre – a fortified part of the village which used to offer the inhabitants of Gozo shelter against foreign invaders, similar to Mdina’s surrounding walls on the main island Malta. The seaside town of Xlendi is a popular tourist destination, offering a beautiful view of its bay surrounded by high cliffs. Ramla l-Hamla and San Blas Bay are beautiful beaches to go for a swim, one being larger and busier, the other being more secluded and more difficult to get to (steep hill descent) but much worth the effort.

As of recent, a shuttle bus service is available, taking you straight from the airport to the ferries in the Northern most tip of the island of Malta, making arrangements for a Gozo holiday a little easier to plan for.

6. Malta has a rich culture and heritage

Throughout the ages, the Maltese islands have seen various foreign rulers coming and going, and leaving behind their stamps on Maltese culture. As a result, Malta is soaked in culture and heritage and offers a large number of cultural and historical sites in very short distances from each other, making Malta a unique place in the world map of culture and heritage. Both in the Maltese language and culture remnants of Phoenician, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Turks, French and English invaders can still be found today and this melting pot of cultures is of interest to many tourists visiting the Maltese islands on holiday.

5. Good quality hotels and accommodation

Good quality hotels and self-catering apartments are widely available at very reasonable prices. Package deals are usually the way to go, but booked separately the cost versus quality of accommodation is very good. The main areas for holiday resorts are St. Julian’s, Bugibba/Qawra, and Sliema, which are all situated in the Northern part of Malta. Accommodation in St. Julian’s is recommended if you enjoy spending your nights going out but, being close to the nightlife hub of Malta, is not advisable for couples and family who are looking for peace and serenity. For those travellers, places like Mellieha and St. Paul’s Bay are much better places to stay.

4. Malta is an all year round destination

A flight from London to Malta takes less than three hours, but the difference in climate is huge. Mild winters and warm summers with an average temperature of 32C means excellent weather for both hot summer holidays as well as great holiday weather in winter, to escape from the cold back home. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained all year round and for example hiking is a popular way of spending days out in the countryside in winter, enjoying the scenery and serenity. Most cultural and historical hotspots are open all year round, and although open air clubs don’t open during the winter months, nightlife in Malta goes on throughout the whole year.

3. Malta offers a great nightlife to complement your daily activities

Nights out on the town are a ton of fun, since Malta hosts a true clubbing hub that goes by the name of Paceville (St. Julian’s) and which offers a large number of clubs which are situated literally door to door and which play different genres of music to suit everyone’s tastes. Open air clubs, however, are what makes clubbing in Malta rather special. Spending your warm summer nights dancing to the latest club and trance anthems or smooth R&B and hiphop beats under the stars is just something else and a must do on your holiday to Malta.

2. Malta holidays now come with cheap flights

That’s right – low cost airlines have found Malta and offer dirt cheap flights to the island outside of the high season and regular cheap flights in summer. These airlines offer flights departing from a select number of places in Europe, such as London, Dublin, Barcelona, Oslo, Stockholm, Pisa (Italy) and Bremen (Germany). Look for airlines the likes of Ryanair, Norwegian Air Shuttle and Clickair, but don’t forget to check Malta’s national airline Air Malta, which regularly offers low cost flights to a much larger number of European destinations.

1. Malta holidays offer more than any other Mediterranean destination

You could say that the top reason for visiting Malta is a combination of all other reasons listed above: There are a lot of different things you can do during your holiday in Malta and you’ll never be bored if you get the right info. Baking in the sun on the beach is great for relaxation after a long year of work or school, but most people would prefer adding a little variety to the time they spend on holiday. So if you’d like to go somewhere else besides the beach, why not visit on the many places of interest around the island? Visit the old capital city of Mdina, for example, surrounded by bastions and oozing with history and an ambiance you’ll never forget. Why not take a trip to sister island Gozo, with its serene country views and attractions such as the Azure Window, a rock formation sculpted by the sea.

Evenings will never be boring when you know where to go. There is plenty of choice when it comes to dining out, as quality restaurants can be found in most parts of the island. Wine bars and pubs are also popular in Malta and provide quality wines and both local and international lagers, beers and various popular brands of liquor. There’s plenty of opportunity for clubbing and open air clubs and parties are a must see if clubbing is your ideal night out.

Plan your outings by getting information beforehand! Inform yourself before travelling by learning more about Malta and what Malta holidays can offer you.

England’s Thierry Henry, the explosive striker for soccer’s beleaguered Arsenal team, has decided to cut ties and venture toward greener pastures with the Barcelona club. His recent decision has left fans disappointed but not surprised, as the deal for the move has dragged on for almost a year.

Of the move, Henry has recently been quoted as saying, “I have said so many times why I left Arsenal. I don’t want to go back to that, but it was hard to leave. I always said that if I ever left Arsenal, it would be to play for Barcelona.”

Well, now Henry’s wish has come true.

Since Arsenal’s 2006 loss for the Champion’s League to Barcelona, fans and those ‘in-the-know’ have believed that Henry would make the move to the team that beat them, but then Henry turned around and signed a new contract with Arsenal.

However, the marriage has not lasted long, and the deal has been struck. The lucrative deal between Henry and Barcelona will make the Frenchman a very rich man indeed. The 29-year-old signed a four-year contract, which also includes a release clause.

Thierry Henry has played with England’s Arsenal team since 1999, playing in more than 250 games and scoring almost 200 goals. However, he spent much of 2006 on the sidelines recovering from injuries incurred in March, which included hamstring, back and foot problems.

Nevertheless, during his illustrious career with Arsenal, Henry shot quickly to the top as the club’s leading goal scorer, and in the 2001-02 season, he netted 32 goals. The following season, he scored 42 goals and offered his best with almost two dozen assists. That year, the FIFA’s Technical Study Group also named him Man of the Match in three out of five matches for France.

In 2005, Henry rose to club captain, and that year also saw Henry become the club’s all time top goal scorer, and he followed that year up with another successful year at breaking records in 2006. Henry is the only player to win the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year three times, in 2003, 2004 and 2006 and has been awarded the French Player of the Year four times. But perhaps the finest validation for Henry came in 2004 when football icon Pele named Henry one of the top 125 greatest living football players.

Henry, born in Paris is 1977, grew up playing soccer and excelled at his game by the time he became a teenager. His first professional rights as a player were signed when he was merely 13 years old, by First Division Monaco, and he played his first professional game in Nice at the tender age of 17.

In 1996, he made the Europe junior team. As he made his way up the ranks, Henry played for Italy’s Juventus, though he found his stride with the Arsenal club in England.

His early days with Arsenal found Henry playing wing, but team adjustments placed him at the striker spot at center, where it soon became clear he was incredibly gifted. Henry did, and has continued to, impress fans around the world with his lightening quick speed and large dose of natural talent.

Whether Henry will find what he is seeking with Barcelona, a Champion’s League, remains to be seen, but one thing is for certain: Arsenal will miss one of their most gifted players, and all eyes will be on Thierry Henry as he begins a new chapter of his life with Club Barcelona.

Brussels is known for more than just being Europes capital city and any visit to Brussels should include at least some of the below famous landmarks.

Grand Place

It all begins here – Brussels most distinguished feature started life as a cobbled marketplace in around the 12th century. Many of the grandeur buildings that make up such a vivid part of Grand Place today weren’t erected until the 18th century.

The guildhalls that give Grand Place it’s identity were part of trade societies formed around the 13th century – notably butchers, bakers and cloth makers. Each guildhall is distinguished by certain unique designs.

Perhaps the most admired part of Grand Place is the magnificent Hotel de Ville, which was completed in 1444 by architect Jan von Ruysbroeck. Since then, it’s been described as a gothic masterpiece and one of the most splendid sights in Belgium. Inside, you can take a tour and browse over some wonderful artwork and tapestry from the 15th century. Take in the breathtaking majesty of the conference room boasting ancient tapestry and the “Aldermens Room” where even today the Mayor holds certain prolific meetings. The final masterpiece of Hotel de Ville is its exquisite belfry – described as one of the finest in the world. Now, the Hotel de Ville is the town centre of Brussels.

The Maison du Roi was built in 1536 by (then) Spanish rulers and now houses a fine collection of art, tapestries and Manneken Pis from the 16th century. Meaning “Kings House” Maison du Roi is now the setting for Musee de la Ville de Bruxelles – a collection of medieval art. If you’re planning on seeing a number of museums during your stay in Brussels then you may benefit from a “Brussels Card” which offers free entry to 30 museums for 30 Euros – the holder also gets unlimited access on public transport and discounts on various additional attractions and eateries.

Le Pigeon is known as being the home of Victor Hugo, the famous French writer in 1852 after he fled France following the French insurrection and La Maison des Boulangers was built by the guild of bakers – a testimony to their power and wealth at the time. Maison des Tailleurs is made famous by the statue of patron saint St Barbara – this was the guild of tailors.

One of the best experiences of visiting Brussels is to enjoy a coffee or beer at one of the cafes set within Grand Place and watch the bustle of tourists potter along the cobbled streets while viewing the grandeur.

If you intend on having something to eat in and around Grand Place then there’s no shortage of options. If you’re in the mood for traditional Belgian fare, try t’Kelderke which serves up the usual offering of moules et frites at reasonable prices. Katya’s Kitchen is also an interesting establishment serving up a variety of cuisine including Asian and more traditional Belgian dishes. There are other restaurants within a stones throw of Grand Place so if these don’t take your fancy simply take to the streets until something does.

Try coming back to see Grand Place at night – the busy atmosphere and night lights make it a truly enriching experience.

Parc du Cinquantenaire

Beautiful, tree-lined Parc du Cinquantenaire was built as a tribute to the golden celebrations for Belgian independence in 1880. The famous Arc de Triomphe landmark was completed several years after the park was built.

The park houses the Musee de l’Armee which is a museum describing Belgiums military history and includes various artefacts stretching back to over two centuries. The gateway into the city is marked by the Central Archway. Interestingly, the park is also home to “Autoworld” which has hundreds of classic cars on display. Also worth a visit is Musee du Cinquantenaire which has international artefacts from civilisations dating back to the 15th century.

Aside from the many features of Parc du Cinquantenaire it’s also a very plesant place to take a relaxing stroll – indeed it’s one of the most loved places by the locals who come in droves during weekends and public holidays.

Quartier Royal

Once upon a time the Quartier Royal was the home of Belgian Royalty, though this is no longer the case (the Royal family are now situated in Laeken). Even so, the Quartier Royal are grand and handsome grounds with an eventful history – including being utterly destroyed by a fire in 1731 before being rebuilt by the 19th century.

Stretching over a mile long, Rue Royal runs from Quartier Royal to the pleasant Jardin Botanique and is a pleasant way of seeing some fine architecure. The Quartier Royal also houses the Palais Royal, Palais de la Nation and Palais des Academies. The Palais Royal remains the largest of the palaces set within Quartier Royal and boasts a fine throne room, long gallery displaying ceiling paintings and the hall of mirrors. It’s open to the public between July and September and is well worth the visit.

The attractive Parc de Bruxelles has some elegant fountains and is lined with trees – the park was originally conceived in the 17th century.

Cathedrale Sts Michel et Gudule

This grand cathedral took over three centuries to complete – work actually began in 1225, under Henry I (Duke of Brabant) and was completed around the 16th century under Charles V. Saint Gudule was the 7th century saint who the Cathedral was inspired after along with St Michael (Patron Saint of Brussels) who’s statue can be seen in the middle of the structure. The “Last Judgement” window is an exquisite feature of the Cathedral – indeed, it’s the first sight that stands out as you approach. This interesting gothic styled institution is located on Parvis St.-Gudule.

Palais de Justice

Completed in 1883, the Palais de Justice was designed by Joseph Poelaert and remains one of the distinctive constructions in Belgium and unlike many other landmark still functions as it was originally built for – in this case the capital of Brussels’ legal courts. The Palais de Justice is situated along Place Poelaert. Very near the Palais de Justice are Les Marolles which are stuffed with little cafes and tiny shops. For some unusual bargains make your way to the junk market on Sunday mornings on Place du Jeu de Balle.

Palais d’Egmont

On rue aux Laines is the unmistakable sight of Palais d’Egmont – originally built in the 16th century, the palace took on further historical significance in the 1970’s as the place where Great Britain officially became a member of the EEC.

Musee d’Art Moderne

The multi-storey building that houses this museum is almost as interesting as the exhibits inside – as many of the levels are underground. The museum is located on Place Royale and as the name suggests, includes works of art from modern talent (19th century onwards). Also worth a visit is Musee d’Art Ancien – displaying art dating as far back as the 15th century and includes a pleasant sculpture garden that’s a delight to visit. Musee d’Art Ancien is on rue de la Regence.

Le Sablon District

Known as the region where Brussels splits into two (the upper and lower region) the Place du Grand Sablon is a pleasant area with a prolific fountain and the Gothic church of Notre-Dame du Sablon. This prosperous region of Brussels is noted for housing top restaurants, bars & cafes to stop by and enjoy a bite. Aside from visiting the gothic church (completed around the mid 1500’s) the Place du Petit Sablon must be seen – these delightful gardens are a pleasure to amble along. Sit on the many benches available, peruse the statues and take some pictures of the fountains built to honour Counts Egmont & Hornes.

Atomium

The Atomium (located in Heysel) is one of the most distinguished landmarks of Brussels – the structure – a giant molecule was constructed in 1958 when Brussels held the world fair. It’s well worth a trip to see this interesting structure.

Laeken

This leafy suburb situated north of Brussels is the Belgian equivalent of Windsor – it is the residence of the Belgian royalty and is noted for it’s abundance of greenery and picture-perfect parklands.

Stockholm

The capital city of Sweden is also the most enchanting. The attractive city offers waterways, parks, gardens, fairytale castles, churches and palaces. The maritime feel to the city also makes it a lively, energetic place to visit.

Transport: how to get there and around

By air, you can travel to Arlanda airport. Stockholm’s airport is located about 30 miles from the city centre. By land you have the option of long distance bus or train. The main bus station is Cityterminalen, which is nearby the train station Centralstationen. If coming from Helsinki or Turku, the ferry is also an option.

Climate

From May to July you can enjoy the Swedish summer which brings around nine hours of bright sun each day. The winter however dark and very chilly with frequent snow. The temperature in July and August averages 16 C and below freezing in the winter.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Stockholm.

Attractions & Events

*From May to August there are theatre performances at Drottingholms Court for the Summer Music Festival.

*For great food, drink and entertainment head to Kungstradgarden for the Taste of Stockholm event in early June.

* The Jazz Festival is held mid July, in early August you can experience the lesbian and gay Stockholm Pride event.

*Film lovers can watch 24 hours of films at the November International Film Festival.

Oslo

Oslo the capital of beautiful rugged Norway has plenty to keep the visitor interested. Fo one thing, the city boasts 50 museums and many art galleries. Highlights are the Viking Ship Museum, the Munch Museum and Holmenkollen. A new attraction is the Nobel Peace Centre.

Transport: how to get there and around

The International airport in Gardermoen serves Europe and North America well.

The train can link you as far as London, and the bus serves Russia, Germany and other Scandinavian countries. Ferries also run to Germany and the UK.

Oslo city is compact enough to walk around, although you could spoil yourself with a ferry trip on the fjord. There is also a choice of buses, subway system and taxis.

Weather

Oslo weather is fairly tame in comparison to other Scandinavian locations. Temperatures are around 16 C upwards during the long days of the summer. However being coastal there is frequent rain. Winter is snowy and there isn’t much daylight, so can be quite gloomy.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Oslo.

Attractions & Events

*An important day in the Norwegian calendar is 17 May. Constitution Day is a traditional day is widely celebrated with dressing in folk costume.

*Beach bonfires are lit on Midsummer’s Eve, another big celebration in Oslo.

Helsinki

The city with its waterways and parks feels the fresh air from the nearby sea. With influences of Russia and Sweden, the Finnish capital has a bustling market square enveloped by classic architecture and al fresco cafes make if a great place to hang out on long summer nights.

Transport: how to get there and around

Vantaa International Airport, 12 miles away from the city serves flights from Russia and other European countries. The ferry connects Sweden, Estonia and Germany. The train also has international connections.

Traveling around the city is made easy by a single ticket which serves all public transport including the tram, metro, ferry and bus. You can also conveniently rent a cycle from a coin machine and try one of the city’s cycle trails.

Weather

The winter months can get as cold as -5 C in Helsinki, where as the summer averages 25 C. If you are looking for some sunshine, the best months to visit are June to September.

Accommodation: Luxury to budget stays

The internet can offer some of the best information on the cost, range and location of hotels in Helsinki.

Attractions & Events

*If you like a tipple, the event where most drinkers overindulge is the May Day Festical, Vappu.

*Kaivopuisto Park holds weekly concerts each Sunday throughout the summer.

• The Arts Festival at the end of August to September is a popular time for celebrations in the city.

(c) 2008 Steven Magill

Tourist attractions in Sweden are many and very varied. From Santa Claus in the north to crayfish parties, Viking adventures, the Midnight Sun and the ubiquitous sm?sbord, this is a land of many contrasts; the tourist attractions in Sweden will not let you down. Here are 7 tourist attractions in Sweden, in no particular order, that are each well worth the visit.

1. Stockholm is the capital, and it is a great place to visit. This city will amaze you for its cleanliness and its feeling of being safe. It will amaze you for other things too. It has some wonderful museums, large peaceful parks, a nightlife that will take your breath away – literally, and architecture that sets the scene for a purely Swedish experience.

2. Forget Loch Ness in Scotland; come to Storsj?n J?land province. This huge lake has a legend to rival Loch Ness, a monster that even enjoys the protection of the law! And if you fail to spot the monster, the general area around Storsj?s still worth the visit; the scenery alone will simply astound you.

3. Inlandsbanan is the inland railway. If you are a train lover, then this is a train ride not to be missed. You can travel across the Arctic Circle, get off when you want, get back on again – it’s your choice. The 1,300 kilometer journey goes all the way up to Lappland in the north, and to Kristinehamn further south.

4. You probably associate European beaches with the Spanish Costas, or the Greek islands, but Sweden has plenty to offer too. The island of Gotland in the Baltic has some excellent beaches, and coupled with the surprisingly warm summer weather they can expect most years, this is definitely a destination for those who want to be in a northern country, but still lounge on the beach.

5. If you like traveling on water, why not take a trip on the G?Canal. You can travel southeast to northwest across the country from Gothenburg to Stockholm on an old ship. You will cross a river, eight lakes and three canals. You will also pass through 66 locks and travel, albeit briefly, on two seas. There are few journeys that can boast that degree of variety!

6. If you enjoy hiking, then this will be one of your favorite tourist attractions in Sweden; the famous hiking trail of Kungsleden. The trail snakes over 500 kilometers from Hemaven to Abisko. It is well marked out and extremely popular. There are cabins along the route of the trail, but in the holiday season these can become very popular and crowded.

7. If you love rugged scenery in a rural natural setting, then Bohusl?is for you. This is the area. More or less, between the Norwegian border in the north, to Gothenburg to the south. There are a multitude of small rocky islands with little fishing villages nestled in between. The scenery is almost surreal and well worth a visit. This must rank as one of the better of the tourist attractions in Sweden.

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and Antwerp is another large city in the country. There are also a variety of other entertainments for the gay community such as, saunas, restaurants and cafés.

Brussels

As Brussels is the capital city you can expect a great range of nightlife entertainment and as well as all the gay bars available there are also a number of gay clubs. The Slave for example, is a popular bar/club which is located in the centre of the city and is very happening at the moment. This great club has two rooms and a great range of entertainment such as DJ\’s and also good drinks promotions. Another great gay club is a place called Next which is again in the centre of the city and offers a good range of entertainment. You can expect a great night out here and all the The gay clubs and bars in Belgium have a fun and lively atmosphere. Most of the clubs are open until the early hours of the morning so you can have a long and exciting night.

Antwerp

Antwerp is another great city in Belgium and there are a great range of gay clubs and bars here. Rubbzz, for example, is a popular club which is open until 6am on the weekends and is very popular with the local gay community. This bar/club offers a good range of entertainment as well as great drinks promotions such as Wednesday nights buy on get one free. You can expect a fabulous night out in Antwerp as well as Brussels and the Belgium gay clubs and bars are ones you won\’t forget.

We provide our visitors with a list of gay bars and clubs in Belgium. We allow our visitors to use our ratings and feedback system to help others find a place which will suit them and you can also view photos and locations of all the bars and clubs in our listings.

Brussels, Belgium is a city shouldering many responsibilities. It is the capital of Belgium, the capital of Flanders, the capital of the French Community of Belgium. It is also the location of many of the European Union’s institutions and is, therefore, considered the capital of the European Union. And, if that weren’t enough, it’s also the political seat of NATO. Although its responsibilities give it an air of importance, Brussels is not to be overlooked as one of the premier vacation cities in Europe.

The city’s name is derived from an old Dutch word, broucsella, which means “marsh home” or “home consisting of one room, in the marsh.” Along with its rather quaint name, Brussels has an equally charming body of local traditions.

One such tradition is the House of Toone, a theater of marionette puppets. It was originally in the Marolles area. However, it presently holds shows that introduce visitors to the local languages and customs in a 1696 estaminet just steps away from the Grand Place.

Another popular tradition in Brussels is the Ommegang, which means “walking around.” The tradition began in the 14th century as a religious processional. It occurs each July and is in memory of Charles V’s Joyous Entry into Brussels in 1549. The parade is very colorful, including floats, giant puppets, and groups dressed in medieval costumes.

Still another interesting custom is the Meyboom or “tree of May” celebration. As part of this ancient festivity, a young beech tree is paraded through the city and planted amongst joyful music and giant puppets.

Brussels also has many cultural attractions and landmarks, such as Grand Place, the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, and the Royal Palace of Belgium. Belgium is also the birthplace of many comic characters, like the Smurfs, Largo Winch, Tintin, and Lucky Luke, so there are many murals and frescos throughout the city honoring these characters.

Indeed, the comic spirit of the inhabitants of Brussels is evident in its most famous statue. A quirky little bronze statue called Manneken Pis or Jeanneke Pis. It depicts a little boy urinating into the basin of a fountain.

Visitors to Brussels, Belgium will find a variety of accommodations suited to meet the needs of virtually any tourist. These accommodations include both hotels and holiday apartments.

Examples of hotels in Brussels are:

Alma Grand Palace Hotel: This beautiful hotel is located in the historic center of Brussels very close to the Grand Place and Manneken Pis. Rooms are elegantly decorated and business facilities are available. Tourists may communicate with staff members for tips on traveling and sights within Brussels. Hotel services and amenities include air conditioning with individual controls, satellite television, wireless Internet access in all rooms, facilities for disabled people, and a 24-hour front desk.

Bedford Hotel: This lovely hotel combines the traditional with the modern for a comfortable stay. It’s situated within walking distance of major tourist attractions, like the Grand Place, Royal Palace, and Manneken Pis. Guests can also walk to many museums and shops. Hotel services and amenities include a restaurant, bar, central heating, business center, and 24-hour front desk.

Brussels Hotel: This modern hotel is located on Avenue Louise near the business center of Brussels, the parliament, and the European Commission headquarters. It contains 69 rooms all equipped with an array of conveniences, such as a mini-bar, satellite television, and modem. There are also 16 suites, each with its own kitchenette.

Chaochow Palace: Just 15 minutes from the airport, this hotel is conveniently located whether you’re in Brussels on business or vacation. Hotel services and amenities include room service during certain hours, air conditioning, a bar, multi-lingual staff, 24-hour front desk, and a breakfast buffet.

Examples of holiday apartments in Brussels are:

La Tete dans les Nuages: This gorgeous apartment is decorated in a modern style using the basic colors black, red, and white. It’s a very unique, yet beautiful, apartment with inner walls made from modular blocks on wheels to keep everything you need for living inside the walls and off the floors, freeing up lots of space for relaxing. The location of the apartment is in the center of Brussels in the European quarter near many restaurants and shops. Sleeps five and includes a balcony, air conditioning, and Internet access.

Cloeps: These two apartments are located on a picturesque 17th century farm 25 km from Brussels. They’re a wonderful place to stay if you enjoy the country and would like easy access to the city. Though they’re on a historic farm, the apartments have all the modern conveniences needed for a lengthy holiday stay. Apartments sleep four in two bedrooms and include a barbecue and access to lovely gardens.

Schildknaap: This is a stylish, renovated apartment located in the historic center of Brussels. A two-minute walk will get you to the Grand Palace, shopping areas, the cinema, and the supermarket. It’s also close to a bus stop and the metro for convenient travel to other parts of the city. This cozy one-bedroom apartment sleeps two and includes a balcony, Internet access, and DVD player.

With its quirky but quaint traditions and attractions, Brussels is an excellent place to vacation. You’ll find everything from historic landmarks to colorful events. The vacation accommodations of Brussels are equally varied so that visitors have a choice of hotels or holiday apartments suited to their individual styles.

Paris is an amazing destination. Millions visit Paris every year, and it’s no wonder why; the city of lights features numerous memorable attractions, outstanding dining, and a traditional flair that is hard to find anywhere else on the planet. For all these reasons, Paris is also remarkably expensive to visit.

That’s where long term apartments can come in handy. There are literally thousands of short and long term apartments available throughout the city, and generally, the longer you plan on staying, the greater your savings.

There are a number of advantages to renting an apartment when visiting Paris. First, it’s a much more authentic experience. You are actually experiencing Paris like a Parisian, up close and personal. Generally, you’ll find yourself in a charming neighborhood surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and often, a museum or other tourist attraction.

And don’t worry, renting an apartment is almost as convenient as going to a hotel. In most cases, a friendly manager is waiting to greet you and show you to your apartment as soon as you arrive. In fact, they will often offer to arrange a taxi from the airport, just to make sure you arrive in comfort.

And while the comforts of most hotels are quite appealing, apartments are usually larger and have additional amenities such as kitchens, stereos and televisions, and larger bathrooms.

It is important to have a list of requirements before you begin looking for Paris accommodation. Every apartment is unique, and not every one will be ideally suited to your personality or requirements. Keep in mind how many bedrooms you require, what type of bed you are looking for, even whether you need or want a television in the room. There is great variety available, offering every combination you might be looking for.

Apartments are a viable option whether you are staying for a week, for several weeks, or for several months. Generally, hotels rates in Paris start at 150 euros per night. That can get quite expensive over a few weeks. Apartments on the other hand, can start as low as 50 euros a night, and usually you will receive a greater discount the longer you stay.

As for which neighborhood is the best, that’s really up to you. Generally, I try to arrange accommodation within districts 1 through 5, as these are the most convenient for accessing attractions, shopping, and outstanding dining.

There are hundreds of sites dedicated to showcasing Paris apartments for tourists. Most of these site provide pictures, descriptions, and maps to show you the apartment and surrounding area. When it comes time to pay, simply use your credit card, much as you would when booking a hotel.

I do recommend to anyone planning a visit to Paris to search through online forums relating to tourism in Paris or about visiting Paris. These forums can be a great resource for answering key questions about the city, the people, the attractions and transportation. Recommendations from other people will make your visit complete.

When you visit Paris as a tourist, you want be immersed in the history, the wonderful culture, and the amazing architecture. Regardless of how long you are thinking of staying, renting an apartment in Paris will save you a significant amount of money. This will ensure you spend your time enjoying your time in Paris, instead of wondering how you will pay for your accommodation.