Category: travel Europe

Danube river cruises are one of the best ways to see many inland countries that are usually inaccessible on ocean liners. The Danube River stretches over 2,000 miles and snakes through locations such as Germany, Croatia, Romania, Hungary and Yugoslavia. These types of western Europe cruises are a wonderful opportunity to see the cultures of these countries first hand.

Whereas ocean liners cannot enter these narrower waters, smaller river boats are used for Danube river cruises; they can take you up and down the old waterways and canals that were used in previous centuries. The number of passengers is typically less than 200, which also means that you can get friendlier with your fellow shipmates.

It is commonly assumed that western Europe cruises that travel the rivers are not as of high quality as sea cruises. This is in fact incorrect; the river boats have many comfortable cabins that offer all the amenities you would expect from an ocean liner. You are even privy to having your own balcony where you can watch the locals go about daily life on the shoreline as you glide by.

The barges also tend to dock at smaller locations and you can disembark to discover a completely different way of life in rural areas of the varying countries you visit. The boats also dock in the well known towns and cities so you will not miss the chance to see famous landmarks.

Fontana di Trevi as it’s called in italian is definetely a magnificent master piece created in the very center of Rome.

It’s the largest standing and most ambitious of the Baroque fountains of Rome. Measuring 25.9 meters (85 feet) high and 19.8 meters (65 feet) wide. Rome is rich in abundance of fountains. Currently consisted of over 3,000 fountains scattered all over the city. There is no place on earth like this.

This masterpiece is located at the crossing of 3 streets (tre vie) and it’s the final point of the “modern” Acqua Vergine which is anancient aqueduct that supplied water to Rome, more than 22 km (14 miles) away from the city. This aqueduct served Rome for more than 400 years.

Numerous alterations were made as the centuries passed. In 1629 Pope Urban VIII, thought the earlier fountain was losing its beauty and asked Bernini to sketch and give the fountain a new definite, monumental form.

When the Pope died the project was shelved! The project was adopted and taken over by Nicola Salvi! Work finally began in 1732, and the fountain was completed in 1762. Though Bernini’s project was rejected, there are many Bernini touches in the fountain as it was built

A traditional legend says that when a visitor throws a coin into the fountain, he will be back to Rome again. The tossing of the “three coins” was supposed to be done by three different individuals, but nowadays the current version of the legend says that two coins will lead to a new romance and three will ensure that you will either divorce or get married!

Visiting Scotland and hiring a camper van or motorhome is becoming a popular choice for people within and for those who travel to the UK. The reasons are many, but may include the rugged coastline, open wilderness, high mountains and stunning lochs. Here are some routes that take you to the Hebridean islands.

Easy access to the Hebridean Islands is one reason why many people choose to hire a motorhome in Scotland. Glasgow to Oban and then on to one of the main Hebridean islands is a popular route. Glasgow to Oban only takes around 3 hours. Plenty of time to acquaint yourself with the motorhome. You’ll definitely enjoy the Loch Lomond National Park and the welcoming campsites. The fresh air, the relaxed atmosphere and the perspective of adventure are the key ingredients at the beginning of any motorhome trip.

One of the larger islands is Mull, a great destination for motorhomers. A real Scottish wilderness with some amazing scenary. Home to the famous Golden Eagles, you may also see otters, Minke whales and dolphins around the islands. Once you’ve parked your van in one of the six campsites on Mull, it’s time to explore and take a walking tour of the peaceful hills of the island or discover the rocky bays to the north.

A well known tourist route is to drive along the Mallaig road towards the camping sites of Arisaig, where you will find plenty to see and do. Surrounded by stunning scenery, this area is a must see for all who visit the Hebridean islands.