Greece is the home of many famous tales of the past and the most glorious and famous architecture in the world such as the Parthenon in Athens. If you want to escape the city life the coasts of Greece stretches wide like open arms to its laid back visitors.  Here you’ll find a good dose of sunshine, secluded sandy coves, turquoise waters and the lively company of people under umbrella-laden beaches.

There are 1400 islands that are found off the shore of Greece. Some of the most famous ones are the party filled Mykonos and the paradise of Santorini. There are a number of tour packages that include island-hopping adventures to these islands and that will also give you the chance to go scuba diving and sailing at almost every island. Don’t miss out on this!

If you are interested in the classics, art, culture and literature, then Greece is the place that has it all. Origins of Greece dates back to 3000 BC. It was at this time when powerful civilizations of the Mycenaean, Minoan and Cycladic civilizations prospered. From 800 to 500 BC, the highest point of Grecian civilization was the classical age of Athens which, in turn, paved the way for the evolution of the powerful city state of

With the hospitable people and a myriad of destinations and activities, Greece continues to attract more and more foreign visitors into their country. Even travelers who have been to Greece before will find it difficult to resist the temptation of revisiting it once more. It is beyond doubt that Greece is blessed with beautiful history, resources, people and places that make it a top tourist destination.

Albania has come a long way from difficult times in decades past. Now you’ll find a diamond in the rough with everything you would want out of a trip: a breath-taking coastline, fascinating history, colossal mountains, and heartwarmingly welcoming people. Constantly evolving, Albania today could be different to Albania next year making it a vibrant place to visit.

1.  A unique coastline

You’ll have your breath taken away as you drive along tiny coastal roads, winding around mountains that crash into the sea. A bizarre feature of the coast is the indestructible bunkers that litter the place, placed there by Dictator Enver Hoxha’s paranoia. Climb in, on and around these strange sentinels into Albania’s complicated recent past.

2. Historic grandeur

From ancient hilltop fortresses to excellent Roman ruins, Ottoman mansions to famous orthodox icons, Albania has a rich, fascinating history on display.

Learn the sad ledgend of Rozafa, trapped in her magnificent fortress forever above Shkodra. Climb Gjirokastra’s steep cobbled streets amongst fading Ottoman homes of grandeur to its lonely fortress. Or head to Berat for an even greater taste of rare Ottoman style exploring the many well preserved mansions, as well as its medieval citadel full of churches displaying beautiful frescoes and famous icons. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, a lovingly restored ancient ruin whose history stretches from Hellenistic to Venetian times.

3. Transforming Tirana

Albania’s capital has been working for years to beautify its drab, brutal communist past. Go on your own photographic tour of Tirana discovering the inventive colour schemes that brighten up the city.

Hang out in the cafes by day and dance the night away in the thriving Blloku, an area where the communist elite once lived it up behind walls to keep everyone else out.

Check out www.inyourpocket.com/albania/tirana for the latest tips on where to eat in Tirana, an affordable gastronomical scene which is improving all the time.

4. The unforgettable Accursed Mountains

Albania’s Accursed Mountains are as evocative as they sound. Besides finding indescribable natural beauty you can experience heart-warming stays with families who invite visitors into their remote lifestyles; lives that once were lived fiercely in a hostile, feuding world. Hiking here offers a unique experience to feel as though you are steeping into an undiscovered corner of Europe.

5. Wonderful people

Albania’s greatest gift is its people. They will welcome you to their tables and into their homes, look out for you on buses or just give you a wave on the street. Many countries are friendly but Albania takes hospitality to another level. This alone makes a trip to Albania worth it.

Turkey

We come from a big country, but for some reason Turkey feels even bigger once you start traveling it. Buses seem to be the default transport for travelers – there is a plethora for good value companies and departures are frequent. But who wants to spend 12 hours on a bus?

The inexpensive air-conditioned train, with a bed in your private sleeper, meals in the restaurant car, whilst gently swaying as Turkish scenery rolls past is the best way to get to the great interior.

Try: Overnight from Istanbul to Göreme for the magical landscapes of Cappadocia.

Kazakhstan

You will have heard of the great rail trips in Russia, like the Trans-Siberian, but what about neighbouring Kazakhstan? Comfortable and safe in your private sleeper, you’ll cross the endless sea of steppe where two humped camels flicker past your window. Observe the frenzied action at impossibly remote villages as the train creates an instant, fleeting marketplace on the platform.

Try: Moscow to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, over five days. Continue from there to China.

Vietnam

Why would you fly between destinations in this long country when air-conditioned, safe and cheap trains get you there in much greater comfort, seeing gorgeous scenery on the way? You’ll pay the same price as the Vietnamese, have a bed to stretch out on may meet some locals.

Try: The stunning coastal section between Hué and Danang over the Hai Van Pass.

South Africa

Long-distance passenger trains are perhaps South Africa’s best-kept travel secret. It’s another big country that can be experienced at ground level in much greater comfort than days on a bus. The trains link major cities and are cheap and safe. Enjoy the restaurant cars and the tourist class of sleepers with two and four berth compartments.

Try: Johannesburg to Cape Town over 2 days.

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Looking for somewhere warm to head to for our winter that will surprise you? Montenegro offers something for everyone is this packed little country – natural wonders away from the hordes, a plethora of beaches, gorgeous historic towns – all at cheaper price. Here are four reasons why Montenegro is fast becoming a hot tourist destination:

1. Good value

Montenegro is a much cheaper destination than your typical Western European holiday spots; from the price of accommodation to the cost of superb local wines. Getting there may soon be much cheaper too. A key indicator of Montenegro’s rising position as a hot destination is the recent news that budget airlines Ryanair, Wizz Air and easyJet have completed successful preliminary talks with the Montenegrin government. Air Berlin, a semi low cost airline, will be commencing flights on 18 May 2011 to the coastal airport of Tivat.

2. A truly awe-inspiring lake

Immense Lake Skadar is a spectacular freshwater lake towered over by dramatic mountains. Wind your way along tiny roads carved into the cliffs on a mystery tour to find picturesque fishing villages and secluded beaches. Paddle out to islet monasteries or go on a hike to spot some of the wealth of birdlife. Best of all you’ll have it almost entirely to yourself – no one seems to know about it. Hiking, cycling and kayaking tours are available along with affordable accommodation with million dollar views. Check out http://www.undiscoveredmontenegro.com/.

3. One of the most beautiful bays in the world

Referred to as European’s most southerly fjord, the Boka Kotorska (Bay of Kotor) is a wondrous sight to behold. Step mountain-sides crash into the deep blue sea. Its coastline is dotted with excruciatingly charming towns rich in history; Unesco protected Kotor offers one of Europe’s best preserved mediaeval old towns. You’ll find a range of accommodation options and restaurants throughout the area.

4. Some of Europe’s best sand beaches

If you are an Aussie who thinks a pebble beach just doesn’t cut it, Montenegro has plenty of pristine sand for you. Just one example is Ulcinj. Head here for its famous 12km stretch of unusual black sand, along with a small beach filled with colourful locals in the old town.

So put Montenegro on your list quick, it is ready to boil over.

Situated on the Vltava River in central Bohemia, Prague has been the political, cultural and economic centre of the Czech state for more than 1100 years. For many decades during the Gothic and Renaissance eras, Prague was the permanent seat of two Holy Roman Emperors and thus was also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire.

The population of the city is 1.3 million people, which is actually quite small when you consider how popular the place is.

Tourists flock to the city from all corners of the globe each year and are usually blown away by the vibrancy, amazing architecture and unique appearance.

Prague is often known as the gothic capital of the world.

That is not to mean there are a bunch of trench coat wearing people with lipstick a, nails painted and dog chains attached to them.

It means there is an abundance of great architecture and interesting culture that makes it stand out within the most popular continent in the world.

A good thing about the city is that it will never change, Prague has been included in a list of World Heritage Sites, making the city one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.

Annually it receives more than 4.1 million international visitors.

There are so many cool places to see while in Prague, but if I were to mention a few, they would be Charles Bridge, Prague Castle and the St Vitus Cathedral.

The lovely city in the southern area of Germany is home to a plethora of amazing activities, things to see, and stuff o do.

Each year, millions of tourists’ head to the European city for a range of reasons, but by far the most popular attraction is the world famous Oktoberfest, which is a festival dedicated to beer and slated nuts.

While it is actually in September, due to the warmer weather, the event is full of tents, beers and chatter. And the best part about it, is that it works a treat and is one of the best festivals for any young adult to attend.

Being in Germany, the city is a German-speaking place, but that is not to mean there is no English there. Germans are one of the best English speaking nations that does not use it as their first language.

Almost every person would know a few sentences and the language issue is really not a problem.

Apart form Oktoberfest, there is heaps to do.

Fashion is a great part of the city, and as it is very cold in the area, so many great coats, scarfs and warm fashion is available.

There are also many great shopping centres, coffee places and great restaurants serving up some of Germany’s finest cuisine.

If that is still not your flavour then head south for an hour and enjoy some of the worlds best snow. There are plenty of mountains to choose from, with Austria’s Tirol Alps just around the corner.

Croatia borders Slovenia and Hungary to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the southeast, and Serbia and Montenegro to the east, making it a country in good company.

For tourists, Croatia is absolutely beautiful and definitely a worthwhile place to visit.

The roads are great for traveling and the restaurants are a great way to experience the gorgeous culture the nation has to serve up.

One of the things Croatia is known for is its great coffee. I recommend an tourist to try a local version of the drink at least once!

In terms of places to visit, the old part of Split is definitely worth checking out. The ancient city is like a Roman Tine land and is sure to take the breath away from travelers.

Another must see town of Hvar, where great old market places and the beautiful old buildings will give you something to enjoy.

It is also encouraged to get on a boat, and explore the many inviting bays, where you can go swimming almost all by yourself!

A day-trip to The Brijuni Islands is also something that should be considered.

Croatia as a whole has so much to offer, form amazing beaches to some real ancient history. All this, with a stack of interesting countries bordering it.

If in the Europe area any time soon, check out Croatia. Bets times to go are June/July, as the hotter months make for some great times drinking coffee in the sun and enjoying the beach.

Yes, the cold, flat country is an easy choice for most travellers. It is the biggest and most recognised English speaking country in the area, and naturally, there is much more to see.

While all of the above are true, there are still many smaller places in the United Kingdom which also speak English, and that also offer an abundance of beauty for tourists.

One of these places is Wales, the tiny country to the West of England.

Wales is home to more than three million people and officially has two main languages spoken by the public: English and Welsh.

The country itself boats a remarkable history, as do most places in the UK, especially its capital city Cardiff, which for a while was the biggest coal port in the world.

In terms of things to do in Wales, the world really is your oyster, pending the weather conditions.

If it is the beach you like, then there are plenty which will satisfy you. If is shopping, then you are in the right place also!

Also, Wales’ rocky landscape and tumbling waters make it an ideal setting for high-thrill outdoor activities such as white-water rafting, abseiling and caving.

However, if is history you want to find out about, then the many ancient castles of Wales are a must see!

All in all, Wales has a bit of something for everyone and is well worth checking out if you are in the UK.

As a nation, Switzerland is just like this. The place often referred to as ‘Neutral’ has always had a reputation of keeping to itself and not promoting itself as a great tourist attraction.

The truth is, it doesn’t have to. When you have as much beauty as the mountainous region does, it sells itself!

One of the best places to visit while over there is the capital city of Bern.

Bern is the fourth largest city in the country with a population of 130,000.

While the population is not too large, the city is fairly small and you are sure to experience large crowds around the CDB most days.

Some of the best things to do in the city is to just go for a walk and experience the remarkable beauty that is on offer.

There are so many amazing bush-walks right in the heart of town, much ancient and impressive Gothic architecture as well as many street activities including giant chess and seasonal buskers.

Bern is famous for its spectacular museums and is home to all types of museums including the Museum of Arts, Art-Hall, Psychiatry Museum, Historic Museum, Natural History Museum, Alpine Museum, Einstein House, Marksmen Museum.

There are also plenty of great festivals including the Gurtenfestival, Queersicht, Buskers, etc. Zibelemärit (onion market).

It is a nation where Germany is the official language, where the scenery and landmarks are quite identical to the neighbouring countries, and where the attitudes are like most European countries.

However, Liechtenstein in far from the typical Middle European county.

Firstly, the nation is very exclusive in the way they operate. While Switzerland gets the label of being the worlds neutral country, and the nation which prefers to be its own, Liechtenstein really deserves it more so.

Liechtenstein has its own currency and has refused to join the European Union, despite many attempts by the EU to persuade it to enter.

In addition, they have very strict border security standards set in place despite the peacefulness of the nations surrounding it.

One good thing about the country is that it has never ever been involved in a war, or physical dispute with any other country in its entire 200-year plus existence.
The capital city of the nation is Vaduz, with Schaan another larger city in the region.

For many people, Liechtenstein is their favourite country in the whole world.

These people find it to be a more relaxed, slow paced, and peaceful version of Switzerland.

The geography is breathtaking, the food exotic and rich, while the people are actually very open minded for such a closed nation.