Visiting Slovakia

When Czech republic disintegrated after the end of the cold war, smaller countries began to emerge. One of these is Slovakia that is located in between Czechoslovakia and Hungary.

Slovakia is a small country that has about 5 million inhabitants and is a member of the European Union. Surveys shows that more people are visiting since this is something new and is less expensive. The capital of this country is Bratislava. Given that industrialized neighbors surround it, it is not difficult for tourists to arrive to this country by plane or by train. In the capital itself likes the Bratislava castle. This is located on top of a hill overlooking the Danube river. Visitors can get up to the towers to get a view of the city below and the countryside.

Various invaders have used this castle as a forward base. The government uses this as a venue to hold special events and exhibitions. Inside, there is also a museum, which features archaeological finds. The castle is only happen from Tuesday to Sunday. This means tourists should find another place to visit on a Monday since this is closed.

Religion played a huge role in this country’s history. One of these places is St. Martin’s Cathedral on Castle Hill where 19 rules of this land were crowned. Visitors will appreciate the Gothic architecture and it is okay to take the time admiring the place given that it is free of charge.

The archbishop’s palace is another place to visit while exploring the capital. Years ago, this is where the archbishop will hold office but the one who uses this now is the mayor. Since there are many rooms, this has also been used as a venue to hold exhibits. Guests can drop by to check it out or join a group to explore the various rooms. Tourists will be able to interact more with the locals by visiting the Old town. Michael’s Gate is located at the eastern entrance and is the only surviving watchtower that was used to warn the villages if there was any danger.

In the gate, lies a tower that is 50 meters in height. People can take pictures here and see some of the antiques at the nearby museum. Going further, the person will reach the Main Square. There is an outdoor café for the group to rest and have a cup of coffee. There are also some shops and a few meters away lies The Church of the Holy Savior. Two other places to visit here are the Gothic Franciscan Church and Mirbach’s Palace that has a lot of art work dating back to the Renaissance Period.

People who want to hear good music can get tickets to watch a show at the Slovak Opera House. There are also some ballet performances held here so the person should check what is showing before going in. Outside the opera house is Ganymede’s fountain. People can toss a coin and make a wish just like the Trevis Fountain in Italy.

Slovakia is home to many Jews. Though the people were persecuted and driven out to concentration camps, there are many who have moved back there today. The individual can check out the Zsigray Mansion on Zidovska Street, which has been converted into a Museum of Jewish culture.

Enjoying a Fun Filled Vacation in Spain

A miles south in the Atlantic Ocean lies Spain. This country has more than 4 centuries of rich history and culture that makes it the third most visited places in the world.

Spain has more than 10 cities that make up this country. Each of these places is worth visiting if only the person has the time. This is the reason some tourists stay as long as two or three days before moving on to other cities to appreciate the sights.

One city that is located in the eastern tip of Spain is Barcelona. Aside from this being the venue of the 2002 Olympics, it also has marvelous church called the La Sagrada Familia, the fortress known as the Castell de Montjuic and the La Casa Mila, which are homes that have beautiful balconies and chimneys.

Those who love going to Museums should pay a visit to Madrid that is the capital of Spain. There are over 50 museums to check out and a huge palace that has 2600 rooms which is hard to visit in just one day.

Another city close to the bay of Biscay is Bilbao. Often considered to be the American version of Detroit, it is no wonder that there is a lot of steel work going on such as the Guggenheim museum.

The most festive in this place is the Semana Grande where a major bullfighting event is held. Tourists can also eat, drink and be merry with the locals since the parties are from dusk until dawn.

The city of Madrid is another nice place to visit. It has rose gardens and the Crystal palace. Those who want to see the king and queen may get lucky by going to the Palacio Real, which is the home to the Spanish monarchy.

The most visited place in Madrid is the Paseo del Prado. Its has artwork both of Spanish and some international artists. Another place is the Centro de Arte Reina Sofia that has on display the works of Dali, Miro and Picasso.

Spain can be visited at almost any time of the year. This is because the parties and the festivities just keep on coming such as the bull run or a similar version of the Mardi Gras.

Those who may find the weather to be too cold or hot should visit Spain during May to September when it is considered to be just right.

The individual should bring a few memory cards along with that digital camera since carrying around rolls of film is quite difficult visiting the various sights.

Spain is the fashion capital. One should dress in bright colors to be able to blend in with the locals that could help get discounts when shopping for gifts and other items from the shops on the road. Women can wear a dress while the men can walk around in linen clothing.

Visitors are encouraged to wear sandals or rubber shoes. This will prevent the feet from getting sore after walking around the various places from the morning until the day ends in the early afternoon.

Those who want to check out Spain should bring a jacket and perhaps an umbrella should it rain because the weather changes especially in the mountains or by the sea.