With the holidays looming on the horizon, many travelers are looking for a change of pace and scenery. Now is as good a time as any to plan a vacation to Europe. In fact, those wanting to get away from it all will find a true gem in Madrid, Spain's capital and largest city. With landmarks ranging from the Royal Palace of Madrid to the city's National Library, and such revered museums as the National Archaeological Museum of Spain and Prado Museum, this place truly brims with history and culture. The city has gained prominence as a major hub for international commerce, making it an ideal place for the business-minded. Nightclubs, theaters, parks and galleries abound, offering something to fit pleasure seekers' unique tastes as well.

A great way to reach the heart of the city is via Paseo de la Castellana, one of Madrid's longest avenues. Various financial buildings and government offices lie along this tree-lined stretch, as does Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, which is slated to host the 2010 Union of Football Associations (UEFA) Champion Leagues Final. After a busy day of work or sightseeing, travelers can call it a night at the nearby Hotel Hesperia Emeratriz, which features rooms decorated in a classic style. Also gracing La Castellana is the posh Hesperia Madrid. Designed by Pascua Ortega, who's also credited with designing the renowned Royal Theater, this 5-star retreat is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Madrid's city center is heralded for its striking architecture, and travelers know a visit to Spain isn't complete without taking pictures of the area's awe-inspiring buildings. Even H10 Villa de la Reina, a 4-star property on Gran Via, sports 20th century architectural details. Hotel El Coloso is also easily accessible, offering a restaurant, social lounges and business area.

Head northeast and you'll reach the district of Salamanca. One of Madrid's wealthiest neighborhoods, it is yet another great place to immerse yourself in history, not to mention shop at fashionable stores and boutiques. Once travelers are ready to put the shopping bags down and unwind, they can stay at the modern Hotel Zenit Abeba. Further, Confortel Suites Madrid is also convenient to Salamanca and lies in close proximity to the M-30 motorway and Juan Carlos I Exhibition Center.

Whether you're a history buff, avid shopper or simply in need of a refreshing alternative to the daily grind, there's no question that Madrid rivals and is included among the world's must-see destinations.

Zurich has fascinating and worthwhile travel destinations, tourist spots, and many social scenes. It is known for being clean, efficient, down-to-earth, kid-friendly, and safe. It has a very suitable environment.

Zurich is the largest city in Switzerland with about 376,815 people living in the city. It is the cultural and commercial center of Switzerland. The city can be counted as one of the prominent global cities in the world.

Zurich Switzerland is the best place to live for so many reasons. In terms of transport, Zurich has several railway stations including Hauptbahnhof, the main station. Other stations are Stadelhofen, Enge, Altstetten, Wiedikon, Hardbrucke and Tiefenbrunnen.

The high-speed trains in Zurich are the InterCityExpress, TGV, and Cisalpino. Zurich International Airport is located 10 km northeast of the city of Kloten and the airfield in Dubendorf to be used for military aviation. This place is well-connected to the rest of Europe by train, with direct trains to Barcelona, Rome, Berlin, Budapest, and many other cities.

It is also an advantage that Zurich is multi-lingual. The official language used is German, while the most commonly spoken dialect is Zurich German- the local dialect of Swiss Germans. Other languages commonly used are Italian, Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, and Albanian.

Zurich is a religious city and remains the stronghold of Protestantism. There are a number of notable churches like Grossmunster or the Greatest Minster, Fraumunster or the Lady's Minster, St. Peter that has the largest church clock face in the world, and Kunsthaus Zurich. Kunsthaus houses one of the largest collections in Classic Modern Art in the world.

There are also several notable museums. The Swiss National Museumis located in Platzspitz park. The Haus Konstruktiv is made of concrete and conceptual arts and designs. The Uhrenmuseum Beyer documents the history of timekeeping and timekeepers.

Other Zurich attractions worth mentioning are Lindenhof, the site of the Roman and Medieval castle, and some guild houses along the river. There are also old town on both sides of the river, and zoological garden.

The Parade-Platz is a plaza, center of financial activity with the world-headquarters of several Swiss banks. Also see Masoala Rainforest Ecosystem, Lake Zurich, and Fluntern Cemetery.

Uetliberg is a hill with great view over the city. Sihlcity opened last year which includes a shopping center and a movie theater.

Zurich is considered a global city and a leading financial center. There are many financial institutions that locate their headquarters in Zurich. For one is the Swiss Stock Exchange. The Greater Zurich Area is Switzerland's economic center and home to a vast number of international companies.

Many universities, colleges, and gymnasiums are in Zurich. The technical university ETH Zurich and the University of Zurich are well-known and reputed internationally. They are listed as one in top 200 universities in the world.

Famous figures who lived in Zurich are Richard Avenarius, Marcel Grossman, Gottfried Keller, Johanna Spyri, Hugo Koblet, Bruno Ganz, Heinz Gunthardt, Albert Einstein, Tina Turner and Vesselina Kasarova.

Zurich holds some regular festivities. One is the Street Parade, currently the biggest open air techno rave in Europe.

Swiss National Day is held every first day of August. Celebrations are carried out in many cities in the evenings and fireworks are launched at night.

Zuri Fascht occurs every 3 years. These are weekend festivals celebrating Zurich.

The well known mountain areas of the Alps, the Dolomites and the Sierra Nevada in Spain are all options for the experienced walker. For those seeking a less challenging option there are many alternatives, especially on some of the main holiday islands.

Walkers on the island of Menorca have always been able to enjoy the wonderful countryside for walking but now the completion of a new footpath that circumnavigates the whole island brings a wider choice of routes. For walkers, Menorca has of course some fantastic coastal scenery, with wonderful beaches dotted along its coastline, providing picturesque spots to rest and take a picnic. Menorca is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve area and some conservation is an important aspect. Preservation of flora and fauna as well as certain wildlife area is evident. The new coastal walkway around the island is called the Cam?e Cavalls and is a 180 kilometer long medieval route that was used for communication when the island had to be defended from invaders. The path has now been completely signposted and new fences erected to make it safer and easier to navigate for walkers.

The new pathway initiative follows an eight year process to make the land public property and a two million euro investment to prepare it. As well as walkers, cyclists and horse riders can also share and enjoy the route. Summer temperatures on Menorca can be very high so the best time to undertake a walk on the pathway is probably springtime or late Autumn. There are several companies that offer guided walks on the island and some will also arrange accommodation so that walkers can tackle the route in stages without having to worry about carrying their luggage.

The interesting aspect to walking on the island of Madeira is a unique network of water channels that were built by the Portuguese in the 16th Century to form an irrigation system channelling water to the agricultural parts of the island. These waterways also now provide a huge network of walking routes that bring large numbers of people to the island from all over the world. The waterways transport water from the wetter, higher regions in the north of the island through valleys, gorges and even tunnels to most of the rest of the island. Development of the system carried on for hundreds of years with additions being made as recently as the 1940's. In total, the levada network is made up of over 1300 miles of channels, including some 25 miles of tunnels. There are several levedas that are particularly favoured by walkers including the Levada do Caldeirao Verde. The terrain for walkers is a mix of unchallenging yet pleasant forest walks right through to a series of challenging routes that traverse steep hillsides and a few of the tunnels, for which local knowledge and assistance is recommended.

The island of Mallorca also has some wonderful walking terrain in the Tramuntana Mountains in the north west. The port of Soller is a perfect location for hikers to base themselves as it gives quick access to the higher peaks of Puig Major as well as the more gentle routes to the south of the town. The area around Lake Cuber, one of two huge reservoirs in the peaks, is also a big favourite with walkers. Several tunnels make interesting options, as does a visit to the monastery at Lluc or a walk down the Torrent de Pareis to the beach at Sa Colobra.

Finally the Greek island of Crete provides another location for warm weather walking. Unlike many other Greek islands, Crete has many more green areas and a choice of inland and coastal areas to explore. Traversing the island is a large network of tracks and trails, used in the past by shepherds and farmers but now largely redundant due to an improved road network. This has left them free for walkers to enjoy and a myriad of documented routes use them for out and back, circular and place to place routes. Getting prepared and setting off wit ha guide book is easy or opt to go with an organised walking tour. There are a number of walking companies on the island including a few run by individuals from the UK. Many will know the Gorge of Samuria, which is a great route but can become busy due to its popularity. It is only open during certain parts of the year and is now patrolled by rangers who ensure everyone gets through safely. Walkers start inland at Omalos and walk the 13 kilometers downhill to the coast at Agia Roumeli.

The images conceived when you think of Cambridge may be along the lines of a quaint, picturesque town filled with studious individuals intent on furthering their knowledge, rolling hills and gorgeous scenery. It's a peaceful town focussed on the finer pursuits - but that doesn't mean Cambridge doesn't have its livelier side.

Stacked with a plethora of annual, exciting festivals, Cambridge is as diverse and cultural as the best of British towns and cities - and it is well worth visiting during the festive periods that take place throughout the year. For example, Midsummer Fair - one of the most ancient fairs currently running in the country - is a yearly funfair where adults and children alike can enjoy excellent fairground rides, stalls, attractions and entertainments. It used to be a medieval fair, but has since lost its focus on this. However, the fair's medieval roots are still visible today in the adjoining market that takes place alongside the more carnivalesque activities.

For music fans, there's plenty to choose from. Strawberry Fair takes place on the first Saturday of June and is a brilliant family day out. With free entry, families can head to the fair to enjoy plenty of music and a wealth of children's activities to keep the kids entertained all day.

Alternatively, Cambridge Folk Festival draws thousands to the town every year as music fans flock to one of the biggest folk music festivals in the country. With a vast diversity of folk music from around the world, the Cambridge Folk Festival is a must for anybody interested in traditional and contemporary cultural music - not to mention the various events and attractions that occur alongside this esteemed festival.

The Cambridge Film Festival is another popular event, which takes place in September every year and is considered to be one of the UK's most quality film festivals. Film buffs need barely move a muscle to take in some of the most recent arthouse films, as well as to enjoy old favourites with family and friends.

Finally, ale fans rejoice as the Cambridge Beer Festival takes place in May - understandably an incredibly popular event. Now over 30 years old, the Cambridge Beer Festival is one of the biggest beer festivals in the country and allows visitors to sample a huge selection of exciting and exotic ales and beers from the biggest brewers to the smallest manufacturers.

There's a festival for everyone in Cambridge, making a stay in hotels in Cambridge even more worthwhile. Whatever your area of interest, Cambridge has the event to suit, whether you prefer cutting edge cinema or discovering your new favourite tipple.

The Mediterranean diet is world renowned as being balanced and key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. One of the cornerstones to this diet is fish and seafood, and Barcelona is an excellent place to try the fruits of the sea, with a busy port and plenty of options to get those taste buds tingling!

First of all, it has to be said that one of the most fun parts of trying seafood is to do it yourself. Barcelona has many markets with extremely fresh produce and with the extensive range of self-catering accommodation in the city, such as tourist apartments, it's great fun to pick up some local produce and make a meal in, or prepare a barbeque on your terrace. Gone are the days of worrying about properly cooked fish, or seafood which might disagree with you ' Barcelona's fishmongers are the happiest in recommending different ways to prepare your catch of the day, and personally, I have learned many techniques of different ways to prepare fish and seafood from many friendly fishmongers. The famous Boqueria market on the central Las Ramblas street is a great stop to view different types of seafood and fish, but the Barceloneta and Sant Antoni markets are equally central, stocking the same produce and are often less crowded. Whether it's ingredients for Paella, a Peruvian cebiche or fresh sardines for the barbeque - head down to the markets early and stock up on the catch of the day.

If you prefer to be waited upon, then you're spoilt for choice in Barcelona. With so many seafood restaurants to choose from, and every city guide book often choosing different ones, I'll try and recommend a few of my own experiences and some of the un-missable spots, too.

The old fisherman's quarters of La Barceloneta lie right next to the beach and those narrow streets have some of the oldest and most established restaurants serving the freshest fish and seafood to this day. So when the new red-brick building which now houses the Catalan History Museum was commissioned, there was to be space underneath for the select few restaurants from Barceloneta to choose their spot. In a nutshell, the best places in the old fisherman's neighbourhood were given their choice of restaurant space. Now, since then, in my opinion, some of those restaurants have let their standards slide a little, given the fact that they will easily fill tables on their terraces on a summer's day due to the prime location. This is all apart from one ' El Merendero de la Mari ' which has maintained the best standards since 'Mari' used to make the broth for the Paella and those Mariner's mussels. For me, they just have got everything right, from the waiters and the crockery and cutlery (sounds stupid, I know, and I'm no restaurant critic, but things like that stick in your mind!) to the wine and the speed of service.

Just along the way from El Merendero, and of a completely different ilk, is El Rey de la Gamba. Here it's a much more modest place, with paper napkins, waiters who shout the orders back to the kitchen, and the like, but it's always busy, and they have a great turnover of the fish, so it's always fresh. The biggest reason for me including this place as well, is that the portions are huge! Often we have gone in a group of four and ordered a seafood platter and Paella for two ' and had plenty of leftovers for a doggy bag, too!

Staying in Barceloneta, is the new addition to the Michelin restaurants in the city - Lluçanés which moved to the Barceloneta Market earning itself a star in the process. Here Angel Pascual does what he has been doing best for 16 years at the other location, providing hearty, earthy ingredients in interesting combinations. Perhaps one of the other classic restaurants (that also used to be Michelin starred) is one of the only places outside Barceloneta which does great seafood - Botafumeiro. For nigh on 30 years, Wacky chef Moncho Neira and his team up on Gran de Gracia have been proving that you don't need to be next to the port for great seafood.

In New Hampshire the 191 years old Ruggles Mine, "The Mine in the Sky" is a magnificent open pit mine, with shining walls and huge tunnel rooms. With over 150 minerals dug out including Mica and Uranium minerals. Mineral collection is allowed with admission tickets.

At Strawberry Banke Museum, you tour the historic homes and gardens of 1695. Search the world's fastest Submarine, the foundation of to-days nuclear Submarines at Albacore Park. In summer, it is open from 9.30am to 5.30pm and in winter from 9.30am to 4pm.

Situated in Greenfield City, Greenfield State is open from early May to Columbus Day. Good place for picnicking. Built in 1932 The Mount Washington Observatory is based on non-profit organization. It depicts the knowledge of weather prediction. You can become a member and avail the unique volunteer and educational opportunities.

Located around White Lake, White Lake State Park is in Tamworth, providing all lake facilities. Created in Nottingham, Pawtuckaway State Park provides all water luxuries.

Largest in New Hampshire, Bear Brook State Park is spread in 10000 acres. Trails and three ponds (Beaver, Archery and Catamount) are delight for anglers. Missing exercises, the park offers a fitness trail too. Some Museums are also there.

Situated in Harts location, Crawford Notch State Park's Dry River Campground is open year around for day use and mid-May to early December for camping. Located on US route 302 is the site of historic Willey House.

A landslide killed everybody in 1828 except the house that offers all mountain activities.

Open from early May to early October, Franconia Notch State Park Lafayetter Place Campground has coin-operated showers for tourist's convenience and easy access to Appalachian Trail for hiking.

A Mecca for hikers, Monadnock State Park at Mt. Monadnock that is accessed most in the world. It is located in Jaffery and is open for whole year offering all facilities for hikers and skiers.

Along the shores of Androscoggin River lies Mollidgewocks State Park and Campground with 13 miles of woods presenting a scenic picture. It is located some miles north of Berlin.

Pillsbury State Park is a major link of Monadnock-Sunapee Greenway. All picnic amenities are available. Longest two-span covered bridge in US, Bedell Bridge Historic Site that was demolished by wind in 1979. The bridge is not there but it still is a great place for picnic.

Coleman State Park and Campground is on the shores of Little Diamond Pond in Stewartstown. Boating is allowed on slow boats but no speed boating. The park offers a 55 miles long trail from south to Berlin and all other facilities are available.

With scenic area of woods, Mollidgewocks State Park and Campground lies along the shores of River Androscoggin. Boating, fishing and wildlife watching is available.

At Rye Harbor, East region HQ is located within the park. Spectacular views of ocean and Rye Harbor are available. Undeveloped eighteen miles of shoreline is at hand at Odiorne Point State Park on route 1A in Rye. On the south end, sheltered tide pools of Sunken Forest present an exposed rocky shore.

Along the way to Frost Point lies a sand dune and a creek feeds the adjacent salt marsh. Extensive inland disturbances during World War II made the growth of dense forests in different ways.

Fresh water systems can be seen by a fabricated pond and marsh. Remains of formal gardens and wild flowers grow side-by-side. Fabricated military bunkers lie beneath mounds of earth. All other facilities related to lakes are available.

About the Author:
Ben Royman would like to help you with london taxi transportation and london airport transfer services too.