Prague is situated in central Europe which makes it a convenient location from all major European cities. Its excellent rail connection system with the rest of Europe makes it an ideal location for Europeans in search of a city break.
Capital of the Czech Republic, with a land mass which covers 200 sq miles, Prague is a rapidly expanding city, with a great range of historical architecture and historical monuments displaying the history of the Czech people. Prague has a population of just over one million - and recently became a member of the EU.
It’s main airport, Ruzyne Airport, is Pragues’ only international airport and is situated 10 miles northwest of the city. Regular buses leave the arrivals building and take thirty minutes to the city hcentre.
The best and quickest way of travelling around Prague is by metro. The metro is also the most comfortable transport system and is very straightforward with clear easy-to understand signs. Other methods of travelling around the city include a good tram system and a bus service to the outer regions of Prague.
Most sites worth viewing are situated in the centre of the city, whic is the historic area of Prague. Prague has over twenty large museums and hundreds of fine art galleries for tourists to view. Its museums give a fascinating insight into the history of the Czech people.
Also situated in the centre of Prague are the cities most lush gardens and palaces. Prague castle overlooks the city and still remains in good shape after centuries of wars and invasions. The river Vltava runs through the centre of Prague with boating trips providing an ideal way of exploring many of Prague’s historic parts. These trips only run through the summer months.
The winter months in Prague can become extremely cold, while the summer remains warm and mild. Rainfall in Prague is plentiful during the months of October and November. Snow falls can get quite heavy, but never too extreme. If you are lucky enough to be in Prague after a snow fall, the early morning light shining on the snow turns the city into a magical place.
Prague has become one of Europe’s most visited cities. Most of the good hotels are found near the city centre and range from large international hotel chains to smaller more exclusive old-fashioned Czech hotels. Hostels are rare in Prague, but some travel agencies offer cheap rooms in private dwellings.
Prague has a large variety of restaurants which are located mainly near the city centre. The cuisine in Prague is similar to that of central Europe, dishes contain large portions of meat, mainly beef or pork, and are served with potatoes or rice. On special occasions game is normally served as a main course. Czech beers are famous around the world, and accompany a meal very well.
A cheap city to visit, and well known for its artistic heritage, Prague will offer you a memorable and rewarding trip.
TJ Tierney is an award winning Irish Landscape photographer. For more tips you can visit his photography site. To view his images visit his on-line gallery of pictures of Ireland or see his travel site.
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Portugal is a European country situated on the Iberian Peninsula in the southwest corner of Europe. The west and south of Portugal are cornered by the Atlantic Ocean, giving it some of the most dramatic coastline in Europe.
Portugal borders only one country, Spain, which makes up the rest of the Iberian Peninsula.
With a coastline running over 500 miles Portugal is bursting with scenic sandy coves and rocky cliffs with a dramatic inland landscape.
Portugal is a very pleasant country to visit - especially for any person in love with seafood. All along the coast are amazing restaurants dedicated to cooking fresh fish. Most restaurants are reasonable priced with generous portions. When you are having food in Portugal don’t forget to sample the excellent local wine. While Portugal is noted for Port, excellent wines are home grown in regions north of Porto and Lisbon.
If you are in some of the more popular tourist spots it’s wise to make a reservation. It’s also standard practice in Portugal to add a 5 - 10 percent tip for waiters who are poorly paid.
English is widely spoken throughout Portugal and the locals are extremely friendly. A large selection of English-written newspapers can be bought in most of the larger newsagents.
Portugal is a country rich in arts and history. The architecture of Portugal differs from region to region. The Romans were the first to leave behind their enhanced structural design. Muslim invaders from North Africa during the eight-century have also enriched the architecture in southern Portugal. Portugal is littered with incredible Churches, temples and old buildings. Some old buildings are restored and turned into great hotels.
Hotels in Portugal are plentiful in tourist areas and cities, but in the countryside they can be rare. If you are travelling through the Portuguese countryside plan your journey well in advance.
Sporting holidays can be had at any time of year. While the Portuguese are mainly into football, most marina sports can be sought along the entire coastline. If you are looking for a golfing holiday Portugal should be top of the list. Most of the best golf courses in Portugal are found in the Algarve region, which has a reputation as one of Europe’s top golfing destinations.
The Algarve region of Portugal, situated in the south of the country, is the perfect spot to visit at any time of year. Its climate stays warm all year round and the scenic coastline offers a large variety of marine activity.
Fishing is a valuable way of life for many in Portugal. Each year during the month of August a massive seafood festival is hosted by one of the ports in the Algarve.
If you are looking for a really special place to visit - try some of the Islands along the Portuguese coast. The Azores lie 800 miles west of Portugal in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Known for the peaceful way of life, the Azores volcanic history has left a truly magical landscape. With easy access from mainland Portugal, the Azores are well worth a visit.
TJ Tierney is an award winning photographer and a freelance writer.
He frequently writes for the Travel site Trovoo.com, Art site Goldprints.com and the Gift ideas site shop-4us.com
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