Guide to the European Youth Capital Cities

by Jules on May 20, 2013

The prestigious title of European Youth Capital is given to one city for 12 months to showcase its culture, social and development in a youth-focussed context. Held since 2009 the year-long events and festivals really showcase youth culture in a positive way focussing on specific issues.

European Youth Capital Cities 2009 – 2015

2009 – Rotterdam, Netherlands – The Dutch city of Rotterdam is currently bidding to host the 2018 Summer Youth Olympics and was the very city to host the European Youth Capital honour in 2009. Rotterdam was also the European Capital of Culture in 2001 and has a lively multicultural atmosphere. The second largest port city in the world offers some top cultural highlights. Browse the Rembrandts and Warhols at the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen; admire the architectural wonder of the Erasmus Bridge and ascent the 238 foot Euromast Tower for spectacular panoramic views over the Netherlands.

2010 – Turin, Italy – Sophisticated Turin is known as Torino in Italian. As the fourth largest city in Italy and the capital of the Piedmont region, there is a wealth of culture to amply highly why Turin was chosen as a European Youth Capital. In 2010 special youth led events were held at the mighty Juventus Stadium and the central square at Piazza San Carlo. Other things to do in Turin include exploring the city’s Royal Palaces (of which there are many), catching a glimpse the famous Shroud of Turin and visiting the exquisite Basilica di Superga.

2011 – Antwerp, Belgium – The second city in Belgium hosted the European Capital of Culture in 1993. Considered a trendy hotspot, Antwerp boasts a stunning cathedral, ancient cobbled lanes and plenty of traditional shops and restaurants. Many travellers will arrive at the impressive neo-Baroque Central Station. Cultural highlights include the Baroque Carolus Borromeus Church which was built in the 1600’s by the Jesuits and the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady, which spans 2.5 acres and rises to 403 feet.

2012 – Braga, Portugal – In northern Portugal, the city of Braga is considered one of the oldest Christian settlements in the world. And to celebrate hosting the European Youth Capital in 2012, the city put on an impressive range of events and programs. Portuguese cultural highlights include the 18th century  Church of the Good Jesus, the wealth of Baroque churches and the 18th century aristocrat’s palace which now serves as the  Municipal Museum.

2013 – Maribor, Slovenia – Fresh from hosting the European Capital of Culture in 2012, Maribor is also hosting the European Youth Capital this year. The second largest city in Slovenia in Southern Europe is holding a year of creativity, integration and volunteering. Highlights this year include the Students goulash-feast, Social Erasmus Project and the M.bike program. Cultural highlights of Maribor include the Franciscan Church, the Three Ponds City Park and the ancient ruins of the Water Tower.

2014 – Thessaloniki, Greece – in 2014 the second largest city in Greece, known as Thessalonica and Salonica, will host the prestigious youth title. The cultural capital in northern Greece offers a very hip and happening atmosphere with plenty going on. There’s boutique shopping, lively nightlife and a plethora of festivals and events taking place. Cultural highlights include the gigantic 5th century Church of Agios Dimitrios, the modern Museum of Byzantine Culture with over 3,000 artefacts and the central Aristotelous Square. Thessaloniki also hosted the European Capital of Culture in 1997.

2015 – Cluj-Napoca, Romania – The second largest city in Romania is known simply as Cluj and will play host as the Youth Capital in 2015. Cluj-Napoca, rather aptly, has a vibrant and youthful outlook thanks to the abundance of students studying here. There’s plenty going on as well with football, opera and the café-culture popular pastimes. Visitors come to explore the 10,000 plants species at the Botanical Garden, catch a performance at the National Theatre and kayak and hike around the beautiful Fantanele Lake.

Image Credit; Andrej Jakobčič

By Julie Bowman

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Top 7 Things to do in Monte-Carlo Monaco

by Jules on May 19, 2013

Monaco may be the second smallest state in the world, but it’s perfectly formed! Long considered the playground of the rich and famous, Monaco is best known for those huge yachts in the harbour, the glamorous casinos in Monte-Carlo, the royal heritage of the Grimaldi family and its position on the annual Formula 1 race circuit.

Time for a few facts about Monaco. It’s the second smallest independent city-state on earth, after the Vatican and is made up of 4 districts; Monaco-Ville (old city), Condamine (port quarter), Monte-Carlo and Fontvieille. The local language is French and although it a separate city-state, there are no border restrictions when passing in and out of France. Yes it is expensive so base yourself outside of Monaco and visit on a day trip. There’s plenty to see and do in Monaco with a good blend of historical sights and modern culture. And you never know, you may spot a celeb wandering the town!

Monte-Carlo Harbour

Head to the world famous harbour area of Monte-Carlo to witness the sheer opulence of the yachts for yourself. Many are bigger than most people’s houses and come Formula 1 race day, the rich and famous watch the race from their moored yachts.

Japanese Gardens

The small yet pristine Japanese Gardens are in traditional style with a koi carp pond and teahouse. Ying between the soaring Alps and the azure blue Mediterranean Sea, the gardens are a welcome retreat from the bustle of Monte-Carlo.

Palais Princier

The Prince’s Palace has housed the Grimaldi family since the 13th century, with each making alterations and leaving their mark on this impressively opulent castle. Fifteen of the rooms are open to the public including the Throne Room and the palace offers breathtaking views over the harbour and Monte-Carlo. Catch the traditional changing of the guard ritual at 11.58am each day where the guard wear traditional white in the summer and black in the winter.

St Nicholas Cathedral

Built in 1875 in Romanesque and Byzantine style, Monaco Cathedral is dedicated to St Nicholas and is pictured above. The cathedral is also home to the remains of Princess Grace Kelly and the princes of Monaco, including Prince Rainier III. Traditional mass is held here each Sunday at 10am except during the peak summer months. Many famous weddings have also been held at the St Nicholas cathedral over the years.

Monaco Grand Prix

The annual Formula One race calendar has featured the Monaco Grand Prix since 1929 on the Circuit de Monaco. Considered the most prestigious race on earth, the Monaco Grand Prix epitomises prestige and glamour. The cars screech their way around a challenging street circuit which includes tunnels, steep elevations and sharp bends. The royal family watch the 78 lap race from their royal box in the port.

And if cars are your thing, check out the Princes’ personal Car Collection which includes a Bugatti that won the first Monaco Grand Prix, a Rolls Royce Silver Cloud and a traditional black London cab.

Casino Square

Regarded as the place to be seen, Casino Square is a great spot to people watch and more importantly, spot celebrities. Watch the endless parade of supercars, see people that have won (and lost) in the casinos and drink possibly the most expensive drinks on earth!

Monaco Opera House

If you want an excuse to get dressed up, there is not better excuse than taking in a show at the Salle Garnier Opera Houses. Designed by legendary architect Charles Garnier, the exterior is as bold and handsome as the rich gold and red interior. Highly detailed frescoes, paintings and sculptures adorn the auditorium. Save this for your last night as this is a budget-buster!

By Julie Bowman

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Top 7 Shark Attack Hotspots in the World

by Jules on May 18, 2013

The average risk of death from a shark attack is 1 in 3,748,067 – to put that into context, you’re 30 times more likely to die from lightening than a shark attack! Still, statistics dictate that some destinations are more likely to be shark hotspots than others.

There are more than 470 different shark species on earth from the biggest whale shark (12 meters long) to the smallest dwarf lantern shark (17cm long). All sharks can attack but there are just 4 species that inflict fatal attacks on humans; the mighty great white, bull, oceanic white tip and tiger sharks.

New South Wales, Australia

The east Australian state of NSW is the deadliest shark attack hotspot in the world, with a total of 195 shark attacks (since records began). What’s more shocking however is the fatal attack ration – 57 of these attacks have been fatal – that’s nearly 30% death rate. Although with local education and awareness campaigns there have been no shark fatalities since 2008. Just last month a 51 year old fisherman was attacked by a grey nurse shark as he tried to free it from his fishing net, suffering puncture wounds.

Australia as a whole however has had a total of 510 shark attacks with 144 proving fatal, the last in 2012.

South Africa

South Africa is the most shark-prone country in Africa, where shark cage diving with great white species is a popular tourist attraction.  A group of holidaymakers got more than they bargained for in March when a great white shark actually bit through the cage in Gansbaai in the Western Cape! Watch the scary video below! South Africa has had 52 fatalities from a total of 234 attacks. Africa as a whole has faced 326 shark attacks since records began with 89 fatal attacks.

Florida, USA

Next up is the US State of Florida, which is the destination with the most shark attacks anywhere on earth! A total of 663 people have been attacked, with fortunately only 11 fatalities. Just last week a 16 year old lad was surfing at Melbourne Beach when he was nibbled on the ankle – he was more annoyed that by attending hospital, he’d missed the surf!

Continental USA (excluding Hawaii) is the most prolific shark hotspot on earth with 1,022 attacks and 36 fatalities since records began.

Queensland, Australia

A shark attack was foiled by a British tourist holidaying in Queensland as he bravely grabbed the tail of the two meter long shark! The quick actions of the 62 year old prevented an attack in shallow waters where children were playing. Amazingly, a local film crew caught the action – see the video below. In total 45 people have been killed from 161 shark attacks.

Hawaii, USA

The seas surrounding the islands of Hawaii are a hotbed of shark action. West Coast sharks and mako sharks are commonly found in the waters, with white sharks only venturing to Hawaii occasionally. There have been 116 attacks with 8 fatalities.

California, USA

The state of California is on the Pacific Coast and sees a fair amount of shark action. In fact it ranks sixth in the world for attacks with 109, resulting in 10 deaths. There are an abundance of great white sharks that prey in the Pacific.

Brazil

And finally to Brazil in South America, whose coastline sees the most shark-related trouble with 23 deaths from 97 attacks. This is by far the highest in South America, where there has been a total of 113 attacks resulting in 25 deaths.

Thanks for the data from Ichthyology at the Florida Museum of Natural History – their website is fantastic with the latest stats (Last updated: 11 February 2013) and profiles of various shark species.

By Julie Bowman

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Enter our Travel Writing Competition 2013 and Win £1,000/$1,500

by Jules on May 17, 2013

Imagine winning enough money to explore your dream destination! Well, one lucky winner of our Travel Writing Competition will get that chance with a fantastic first prize of either 1,000 GBP or 1,500 USD!

All you have to do is write and tell us about “The worst journey of your life” – which, let’s face it, we’ve all encountered during our travels! Tell us about your disastrous missed connections, horrendous weather or disgusting food! Make us wince, laugh or cry and the most interesting entries will make it onto our shortlist, which is then put forward for public voting.

So what are you waiting for?

Kiss goodbye to tedious Monday mornings with the opportunity to get out there and explore the world – go on a camel trek through Morocco, try cooking authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hoi An or experience the party atmosphere of Brazil for yourself – the world is your (proverbial) oyster!

Click to enter now!

It really is that simple!

By Julie Bowman

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Revealed: Top Songs to Calm Nervous Travellers

by Jules on May 17, 2013

Up to a quarter of adults are nervous travellers and reading, watching a movie and listening to music are all great ways to relax and unwind when flying. And when it comes to calming music, Spotify have just revealed their top picks to calm the nerves of anxious travellers. And top of the pile is British singer Adele, with ‘Someone Like You’.

Adele’s tracks are perfect thanks to the slow tempo and chilled sound. In fact slow tempo tracks (around 60 beats per minute) are ideal as they can lower travellers’ heart rates and blood pressure. The study shows that music that is both stimulating and emotional is beneficial to those of a nervous flying disposition. Time for me to ditch the heavy metal beats of Metallica then?

The 15 tracks on Spotify’s ‘Calming Music To Fly To’ playlist is an eclectic mix, ranging from Enya’s Orinoco Flow (you have to be of a certain age to remember that one), classic Buffalo Soldier from Bob Marley (I get the whole chilled-reggae vibe) and , personal favourite Scar Tissue from the Red Hot Chilli Peppers. There are also songs from Beyoncé, Coldplay and curiously, The Christmas Song from Nat King Cole, which may seem out of place if you’re flying to the Caribbean for a sun-soaked getaway!

Last up on the list is the classic Space Oddity track from David Bowie, which has just been reworked by Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. He sings and plays guitar along to the track whilst floating weightlessly. You can spot the earth outside the spaceship window – which makes for a rather surreal (and slightly eerie) sight! Check it out below if you haven’t seen it yet – although it’s currently had more than 12 million pageviews!

So what are you favourite songs to listen to when flying? Leave your comments below…

By Julie Bowman

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Top Greek Holiday Islands Explored

by Jules on May 16, 2013

More than 6,000 islands and islets make up the Greek Islands, within the Ionian and Aegean Seas. But each island offers a different experience so which of the Greek holiday islands is perfect for you?

Only 227 of the Greek islands are inhabited but this still offers a fantastic choice and variety. And with a combined 7,500km of coastline, it’s no wonder that watersports and beach sports are high on the agenda. With sheltered coves, crystal clear seas, vast dunes, volcanic sands, deep forests, ancient sites and delicious food – it’s time to make your choice;

Mediterranean Sea Islands

Crete is the largest and most populated of all the Greek Islands. Located in the Mediterranean Sea, it is the fifth largest island in the Med and retains its own unique culture. Famed for being the birthplace of the earliest European civilisation, the Minoans settled here in c. 2700BC. With a rich diversity ranging from buzzing metropolitan cities to laidback hillside villages, there’s something here for everyone.

Heraklion is the capital city of Crete and the most famous landmark is The Minoan Palace of Knossos, where king Minos used to reside. Here the legends of both the Labyrinth and the Minotaur are revealed. Explore the Venetian Walls and the Venetian castle of Koules located in the historic harbour. Wander the pretty St. Minas Cathedral, explore the rich Minoan heritage within the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and take in the exhibits at the Museum of Natural History. The other large towns on Crete include Rethymno, Chania and Agios Nikolaos.

Aegean Islands

Within the Aegean Islands lies Greece’s second largest island, the little-known Euboea, which is actually just off the west coast of Turkey. With a chilled out vibe, activities here are centered around the beaches with excellent watersports facilities, try scuba diving and swimming on Euboea. Be warned that Chiliadou Beach at Steni is a nudist beach! Explore the ancient ruins of the Dragon House at Ochi Mountain and visit the pretty St. John the Russian Church at Khalkis.

The island of Lesbos is Greece’s third largest island and is known for its poets and writers. You too can be inspired by the diverse landscapes and easygoing culture. Explore the Molivos Castle and the carefully preserved Gattilusi Castle in the town of Molyvos. Don’t miss the interesting Natural History Museum and take a hike in the Petrified Forest of Lesbos.

Known as the birthplace of Pythagoras, Samos is small but well-connected. Hire a bike or walk the key sites around the capital Pythagorion, such as the Panagia Spiliani Monastery, the curious Archaeological Museum and ruins of the Temple of Hera (Heraion).

Dodecanese Islands

Rhodes is the largest island within the Dodecanese Islands and is popular with travellers drawn to the pristine beaches, multitude of rich archaeological sites and fascinating medieval town. One of the most beautiful beaches is St Pauls Bay at Lindos and keen surfers should head to Prasonisi Beach which is quieter. Lindos is also home to the ruins of the ancient Acropolis, Kleoboulous’s tomb and the ornate Church of the Assumption. The Colossus of Rhodes site is one of the orignal 7 ancient wonders. Rhodes City is still surrounded by its medieval wall and a walk of the Old Town reveals the Grandmaster´s castle and the historic Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Explore the Archbishops Palace and take in the superb views atop the Rhodes Archaeological Museum. The Medieval City of Rhodes is of huge cultural importance and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Faliraki is the party town on Rhodes with 24/7 bars and clubs.

Quaint Symi offers a real change of pace in the Dodecanese. Think laidback traditional charm within the hilltop villages and small guesthouses. With one of the prettiest harbours in the Greek Islands, Symi offers plenty to do by day. Explore the Panormitis Monastery, visit the Archaeological & Folklore Museum and discover the Symi Museum housed within an impressive building.

The island of Kos is just 2.5 miles (4km) off the coast of Turkey and travellers are drawn to the 112km long coast which offers some fantastic beaches. Wander the Eleftherias Square of Kos Town, explore the ancient ruins of Asklepion and discover the Knights Templar Castle at Kos Town. Get away from the bustle with a hike in the Plaka Forest and cool off at the local Lido Waterpark at Mastichari.

Cyclades Islands

Mykonos is a developed tourist island in the Greek Cyclades islands, although there are pockets of heritage attractions waiting to be discovered. Walk, shop and haggle along Little Venice and Matoyianni Street in Mykonos Town. Explore the local historical sights including the pretty Byzantine Church of Paraportiani, the quaint Windmills and the imposing Castle Panigirakis. Notable beaches include the main Platis Gialos Beach, Agios Stefanos Beach and the Elia Beach which attracts nudist sunbathers!

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades islands and offers fantastic opportunities for watersports such as kitsesurfing and windsurfing.  The beaches of Agios Prokopios, Plaka, Alyko and Agia Anna are the most popular. And for a chance of pace, try hiking the mountainous center of the island. Explore The Portara ruins of the 6BC marble gates in Naxos harbour. Explore the 13th century Kastro Castle and take in the local exhibits at the Venetian Museum.

The beautiful whitewashed villages on Santorini island have long been popular with tourists, and has just been named one of the top islands in the world, and rightly so. Landscapes are dotted with the iconic blue domes of the local churches and the pick of the beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach and secluded Thirasia Beach. Santorini offers some great walking trails and rich cultural sights, including the fascinating Museum of Prehistoric Thera, the 11th century CB remains of Ancient Thera and Akrotiri which was carefully preserved by volcanic ash.

Sporades Islands

The island of Skiathos was made famous thanks to the hugely popular Mamma Mia! movie. A multitude of pristine beaches await alongside Greek historic sites. Visit the Papadiamandis House which showcases the life and times of the local novelist Alexandros Papadiamantis. The exhibits depict life on Skiathos 150 years ago. Best beaches in Skiathos include the Koukounaries Beach, Mandraki Elias Beach and the ‘Hidden Beach’ at Koukounaries.

Ionian Islands

Lying off Greece’s west coast are the Ionian Islands and the largest is Kefalonia. With dense forests, steep mountains and sheer cliffs, Kefalonia is an adventure seekers dream destination! Pack your climbing boots to scale the heights and admire the beautiful natural landscapes from on high. Activities here are rich and varied and include descending into the underground cave system at Melisani Caves in Argostolion. Admire the traditional Monastery of Agios Gerasimos and visit the ancient St George’s Castle at Peratata.

The island of Corfu lies in the Adriatic Sea and presents a rich and varied culture thanks to past rule by the British and Venetians. Generally the north is quieter and more laidback and the south attracts a party-focussed crowd. Corfu Town offers 24/7 bars, clubs and eateries. Explore the former fishing village of Benitses, try walking the highest point at Mount Pantokrator and discover the pretty Sissi’s Palace of Achilleon at Gastouri. The Museum of Asian Art features over 1,000 works of Japanese and Chinese art and a visit to the breathtaking Church of Saint Spiridon is an absolute must! Corfu has also been confirmed as one of the cheapest destinations right now!

Also with the Ionian Islands is the island of Zakynthos (also called Zante), which offers much to both families and adventure travellers alike. History enthusiasts will also be in their element as the rich archaeological artefacts reveal that Zakynthos dates back to the Neolithic Age. Homer mentioned the island in both the Iliad and the Odyssey. Travel around the island in a day either on an organised tour or by hire car and see the breathtaking sights and experiences for yourself.

By Julie Bowman

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Top 7 Things to do in Tokyo Japan

by Jules on May 15, 2013

Tokyo is a lively pulsating super-metropolis which fascinates curious travellers, drawn to the high-tech futuristic city that also offers pockets of traditional culture dotted throughout the city. This is the city where Harajuku-styled girls mingle easily with manga pop culture and sharp-suited businessmen.

Catch the spring Cherry Blossom at the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

If you’re in Tokyo in the springtime you must head to one of the local parks to witness the delicately fragranced and colourful cherry blossom. One of the best parks is the Gyoen National Garden in the Shinjuku district which was originally opened in 1906 for royalty. Since 1949 however the exquisite gardens have been within the public domain and the 58 hectare site has around 20,000 trees including 1,500 cherry trees. This makes for a magical sight in both spring and autumn when the leaves turn to rich hues of gold, orange and red. There is an entrance fee, which keeps the crowds to a minimum. There are English, French and Japanese Gardens with an impressive botanic conservatory.

Tokyo is the largest city on earth and the bustling Shinjuku district features many luxury hotel chains, tech stores, gleaming skyscrapers and hundreds of boutique shops catering to the luxury travel market.

Explore the National Museum of Western Art

There are hundreds of intriguing museums in Tokyo covering art, history, science and speciality interests. The National Museum of western Art is located in Taito’s Ueno Park in central Tokyo and is particularly appealing thanks to its superior paintings and sculptures gallery. The museum houses more than 4,500 pieces dating back to the 14th century. There are works by Rubens, Monet, Picasso, Pollock, Rembrandt, Cézanne and many others. The block-like building was designed by a Swiss architect and opened in 1959. It’s also listed on the provisional UNESCO World Heritage List.

If you’d prefer to learn about the local history, head to the Edo-Tokyo Museum in Sumida. The Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum and the Nezu Museum, both in the Minato district, have some interesting pieces.

Wonder at the Meiji Shrine

One of the most fascinating elements of Tokyo is the traditional heritage contained within the ancient shrines and temples dotted throughout the city. The most famous and arguably most stunning example is the Meiji Shrine. The magnificent Shinto shrine features two large entrance gates to the shrine that is dedicated to the Emperor and Empress Meiji. Built in 1920 the shrine was damaged in World War II. Located in the fashionable shopping district of Shibuya, the über-fashionable district of Harajuku is also within easy reach.

Get Lost in Translation

One of the biggest movies to be filmed entirely in Tokyo is the 2003 film ‘Lost in Translation’ – who can believe its 10 years old already! Director Sofia Coppola filmed Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson in various locations across the city including the colourful and lively Shinjuku and Shibuya districts. Most travellers head to the Park Hyatt Hotel in Shinjuku, to the 52 storey skyscraper where Johansson and Murray’s characters meet in the film. This is also one of the most expensive hotels in the city – a warning if you’re heading there for a drink!   Shinjuku is home to many modern architecturally-interesting buildings such as the modern Tokyo City Hall – make your own mind up about this one!

Explore Tokyo’s Temples

You cannot visit Tokyo and not take in some of the city’s exquisitely presented temples. The finest example of a Buddhist Temple has to be the Sensō-ji Temple in Asakusa, Taito district. Opened in 645 AD, Sensō-ji displays typical Japanese Buddhist architecture. Pass the Kaminarimon, aka Thunder Gate, with its giant lantern and statues of gods. Head into the Kannondō, aka Kannon Hall, to witness worshippers praying and donating tokens amongst the billowing clouds of thickly scented incense.

Whilst in the Asakusa district, you can also take in the Chingodo Shrine, which is dedicated to a raccoon god and Denpoin Temple which has carefully manicured gardens.

Try the local sushi

Japan’s most famous cuisine is sushi, which is often (poorly) replicated across the world. To get a taste for authentic Japanese sushi, head to the Tsukiji Fish Market, which offers the freshest and tastiest sushi in town. This huge market, also known as the Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market, has over 1,600 market stalls with rare and impressive fish species on display such as live lobster and crab and whole salmon. And yes Tokyo is home to the delicacy of the Fugu fish, whose consumption can be fatal unless it is specially prepared!

If you’re on a tight budget in Tokyo, a good dining option is the traditional street food vendors who cook up fresh noodles, yakitori and tasty takoyaki dough balls.

Experience a Japanese-style themepark

One of the busiest tourist attractions in Tokyo is the local Disneyland and DisneySea resort. This was the very first Disney franchise to open outside of the USA, in 1983. And with over 13 million visitors annually, it’s also the busiest themepark outside of America. It has to be experienced to be believed.

By Julie Bowman

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