Mini Travel Guides

Do you have your heart set on visiting London, even if you’re ’skint’ (lacking funds)? Many travelers do, and for good reason: it’s one of the most historic and exciting cities in the world. The price tag can be intimidating, though, as even a ‘cuppa’ tea can run you several dollars. But not to worry: not only can you still afford London on a budget, but you can have a fantastic time. You just have to be a little more creative, and start counting your pennies (pence, that is).

The best things in life (and London) are free

London is a world-class city with world-class museums, and amazingly, most of them still have free or donation-based entry. No matter where your interests lay, there will be a museum or gallery to awe you. Want to see priceless treasures such as the famous Rosetta Stone? Head for the British Museum. Fancy viewing cutting-edge art installations? Make your way towards the Tate Modern. The scale and quality of these institutions are spectacular, and there are so many (over 300 in greater London) that you have the luxury of being choosy.

When creating an itinerary for your budget trip to London, try to focus on a different area (or borough) for each day of your adventure. Walking around London is gratis, and you don’t need to pay an extortionate amount for tourist maps.

Before you leave home, print some Google maps (road or satellite versions, whichever you prefer) and design your own walking tours. London offers sweeping views of the Thames, grand monuments, bustling markets, guarded palaces, busy squares, and unexpectedly peaceful parks. And, experiencing these memorable wonders doesn’t cost a thing.

What to do with your existing ‘fun money’

That being said, a trip isn’t as much fun if you’re always seeing the exteriors of famous buildings, but never the interiors. Nor is it enjoyable to just stand aside and watch other people having the unique London travel experiences.

My advice is to choose one ’splurge’ per day, and budget for that activity beforehand. For each area or London neighborhood that you plan on visiting, research what is there and allow yourself to have one guilt-free pleasure. After all, if the rest of your day is fairly budget-conscious, you’ll still come out ahead.

So what might be worth your precious pounds? There are seminal London hubs that should not be missed, such as St. Paul’s Cathedral (£14.50), the London Eye (£18.60), and the Tower of London (£19.80). Yes, once converted into your home currency, these attractions might be considered steep—but really, how often are you able to visit London? And if you can manage spending money on only one activity per day, these are fantastic choices that you’ll never forget. Also, if you’re lucky enough to visit London during Wimbledon, attending a match would also be a worthy ’splurge’. It’s all about finding the special, can’t-do-anywhere-else encounters.

If your budget just can’t stretch past a ‘fiver’, London pubs offer a unique and worthwhile slice of local life. For the price of a pint, you can enjoy the atmosphere for an hour (or longer, if you sip instead of gulp). Or you could spend the afternoon wandering through Harrods, and only buy a few souvenir candy tins on the way out. Think about the ‘money spent’/'time enjoyed’ ratio, and suddenly little expenditures like these look like bonafide bargains.

Written by Amy Vasereno for EuropeUpClose.com

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Budget travel can be an exciting, challenging experience and there are lots of ways to save money on the basics: lodging, eating and transportation. Here’s my take on saving money on your London vacation.

Budget Accommodations in London

You’ll need to sleep, and a park bench just won’t do—but a couch could be perfect if you’re an ultra-independent traveler. Couch Surfing has become popular amongst the extreme backpacker crowd, and it does offer a free and authentic travel experience, if you’re up for it. Participants create an account and profile, and then seek out other members in the locations they wish to visit. I must confess that I’ve never tried this myself, but my friends have with great success (and have made lasting friendships with their hosts).

If you’re on a budget, but are not quite ready to crash on a stranger’s couch, hostels can be a wonderful option. Hostels offer beds in shared dorms, communal bathrooms, and often provide friendly common areas. They are conducive to meeting fellow travelers (I met my husband in one!), but sometimes are not ideal for getting a good night’s sleep. Hostels offer a variety of different atmospheres and clientele: some are rambunctious and full of revelers, some feel a bit sterile and host a decidedly older crowd, and most fit somewhere between these extremes. Do your research, as I’ve found the reviews on hostel booking websites to be pretty accurate.

If you have a bit more money to play with and covet a home-away-from-home, a self-catering apartment could be your best choice. This option becomes very budget-friendly if you are traveling in a group, as they usually have room for two or more. Travelers looking for rest and relaxation, and not necessarily looking for social interaction with other backpackers, are best served by this option. Many websites specialize in this category, but don’t forget to also try a basic internet search, because there are many individuals that aren’t affiliated with formal websites. Some lovely apartments are even listed on Craigslist, VRBO and Gumtree, so do invest some time in browsing.

For more information on couch-surfing and home exchanges, read our article, Free Lodging in Europe.
You may also want to check-out our suggestions for Best London 3-Star and Budget Hotels.

Saving Money on Meals in London

You’ll also need to eat, but you don’t have to spend much more on food than you would at home. Shop as the Londoners do, at supermarkets (Sainsbury’s is my favorite), where you’ll find cheap, wholesome foods for a fraction of the cost in restaurants. Hostels and holiday apartments have guest kitchens, and using these facilities even once per day can bring down your traveling costs immensely. Think ahead—are you going out for dinner? Plan on stocking up on fruit and cereal for breakfast, and perhaps heating up soups for lunch. Suddenly, you can afford a fun meal out without the worry or guilt. Budget travel shouldn’t be about completely limiting yourself—it can be a happy, and rewarding, compromise.

If you’re exploring for the day and cannot make it back to your kitchen for lunch, ‘take away’ is the name of the game. Sandwiches are widely available (from Boots, to Marks and Spencer, to Pret A Manger), and a fish-and-chip shop may offer a cheap and cheerful (if not exactly healthy) lunch on the go. I’ve also found that carrying snacks such as nuts and dried fruit is helpful, especially during long days of sightseeing. When dinner finally rolls around, you’ll be able to savor the food and experience without stressing about the cost. (Of course meals can be switched around, too: if you’re craving a big pub lunch, pick up a simple pasta-and-sauce dinner on your way back to your accommodations.)

Getting around London on a Budget

Finally, you’ll need to budget some money towards transportation. But if you plan ahead, it does not need to break the bank. The largest cost you’ll probably face is the journey to and from the airport. But even here, there are a number of good alternatives. Instead of taking the Heathrow or Gatwick Express trains, which are primarily for tourists, consider taking regular public transport. Yes, the tube and commuter trains are a slower ride, but you’ll more than make up for it in money saved. For instance, the Heathrow Express costs £32 for a return journey into Central London, while the Underground only costs £5 each way (before the Oyster card discount—see below). If you take the tube both ways, that’s a massive savings of £22, which is enough for another ’splurge’ or for a daily pint during your trip. Another wallet-friendly alternative is to make the trip by bus. See National Express for more details.

For getting around the city, you’ll need to rely on more than just your own two feet (but do walk when possible—it’s always free, and it’s the best way to sight see). The Underground is a travel experience unto itself, and once you master that famous map, it is a fantastic way to get from point-to-point. Buses are also a good value, and allow you to see London at street level. Make your transportation money go further by purchasing either a Travelcard (which allows unlimited travel over a day or week), or an Oyster card (which operates in a discounted pay-as-you-go manner). Both are sold by Transport for London, and they can even mail you the cards before you depart for your holiday. One more hint about the tube: the map isn’t to scale, so walking in Central London can actually be the easier option (the most well-known example of this is the paltry 260 meter distance between the Covent Garden and Leicester Square stations).

An independent tour of London might cost more than it used to, but it is still attainable. By budgeting your funds and making the most of the money you do have, you’ll be able to experience the city without feeling like you’re missing something. And, London is a city worth visiting, even on a budget. We think Viator offers a great variety of tours and London play tickets at reasonable pricing

Written by Amy Vasereno for EuropeUpClose.com

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Usually, the thought of a tasty, ice cold brew at the end of a long trek is what keeps even the most intrepid traveler fueled and focused when life on the road gets a little hard going. Thankfully, pretty much everywhere you go in Europe you’re up to your waist in world-class brew, and better yet, a veritable variety of amazing venues in which to relax, unwind and meet great people while you enjoy that well-earned ale.

The Old World attracts considerable tourism through its magnificent architecture, rich history and vibrant array of culture, yet it’s drinking tradition is second to none in terms of breadth, quality and abundance. From Western Spain to Turkey, from Morocco to the crisp Baltics, every nook in Europe prides itself on its own flavors and cozy settings in which to enjoy them.

Ultimately, distilling a comprehensive Best Pubs Guide for the whole of Europe is an immense task. For your consideration and abundant drinking pleasure, I present the following brief, sample quencher which features just a few of the finest watering holes on tap:

Germany—Munich—“Hofbrauhaus”
Picture a bustling, cavernous barn hall filled with drinkers from every part of the world chanting national songs, while dancing and drinking to their hearts’ content. Picture busty froelines ferrying stein after stein to an endlessly thirsty clientele while oom-pa-pa bands in lederhosen blow Bavarian tunes on brass, fueling the night’s conviviality. If Bavaria is a beer connoisseur’s paradise, and Munich is Bavaria’s beer-drinking consciousness, then Hofbrauhaus is surely the region’s lifeblood. It is an institution providing patrons with an unforgettable experience. Beers here are plentiful and arrive in traditional one liter steins bigger than one’s head. Select from a hearty range of authentic Bavarian Weisse and dark beers, and soak it all up with some rich plates of traditional bratwurst and Hofbrauhaus sauerkraut.
Platzl 9
80331 Munich, Germany

Ireland—Dublin—“Grogan’s Castle Lounge”
Seventies décor, well worn bar stools and threadbare sofas, a friendly crew of old timers and a magnificent pint of Guinness—this is the real Dublin. The craic is mighty at Grogan’s, a well-heralded local institution and ‘auld fella’s pub if ever there was one. Leave all pretensions at the door; Grogan’s is warts n’ all a ‘real’ pub—what you see is what you get, and as far as bar experiences go, it’ll be more unique than anywhere else in town.
15 William St South
Dublin 2, Ireland

Ireland—Dublin—“The Guinness Storehouse”
More a tourist spectacle than a pub per se, we couldn’t overlook the inspired glory the Dublin Storehouse’s amazingly fresh, creamy to perfection pint of Guinness. With stunning panoramic views, the freshness of the brew and the aesthetic experience will beat any other in Ireland, or the world for that matter. This truly is the home of the perfect pint.
St James’s Gate
Dublin 8
Co. Dublin, Ireland
01 408 4800

Ireland—Dublin—”Temple Bar”
By far the most frequented tourist nook in Dublin, it’s hard to miss Temple Bar, the central hub and core drinking quarter of the city. Cobblestone walkways and alleys line a lively, decorated collusion of traditional Irish pubs (or as the Irish call them, “Pubs”). It is, indeed, a bustling, jovial and wild scene, pretty much every night of the week. It’s an easy pub-crawl at Temple Bar. Take your pick of the bunch and soak up the vibe of Dublin’s historical drinking epicenter.

UK—London—“The White Horse”

Airy ceilings, Chesterfield leather sofas and a slightly upmarket Victorian feel mark this gem as one of London’s finest. Perched in the leafy neighborhood of Fulham, the “Sloany Pony,” as it is known to locals, is an institution with over eight different brews on tap, comfortable surrounds and an ever-diverse clientele. This grande old mare guarantees a tremendous night, and an even greater afternoon session. Sunday’s are big at the WH, and in summer, the outdoor burgers on the barbecue provide a delicious accompaniment to the glorious selections of traditional and organic brews.
1-3 Parsons Green,
Fulham,
London,
SW6 4UL

UK—London—“Dublin Castle”
Nestled in the guts of the action in edgy Camden, Dublin Castle is a classic olde English watering hole and is well known as the spiritual home of local two-tone upstarts. With oversized portraits and signed photos of the band lining the interior, Dublin Castle is essentially their spiritual home, but all are welcome to revel in the glory. Offering a hearty selection of brews, the Dublin Castle is straight-up pub charm with a cozy vibe, a smattering of history and the perfect, cloistered setting for a good night’s worth of English drinking. The pub also operates as a band venue, with a rear band room, so be sure to check out local listing guides for current gigs and concerts.
94 Parkway,
Camden,
London,
NW1 7AN

Czech Republic—Cesky Krumlov—“Horror Bar”
In the quaint, foggy, medieval town of Cesky Krumlov, there lurks an underground cavern on a bed of stone, adorned with bluestone stairs and very little natural light. Folks, this is the Horror Bar—a gothic drinking dungeon fit for humans and the walking dead alike. One can enjoy Halloween all year round with an ample regime of local Pilsners at very little cost, blood red shots in test tubes and the deathly green concoction “Becherovka” that is guaranteed to leave a dent in the morning. Use caution when thanking the bar staff, as even the humblest nod of the head here seems to translate to “another round, please.” There’s nothing horrible about drinking at the Horror Bar.
Nebeské pastviny
Másna Ul.
Ceský Krumlov

Czech Republic—Prague—“Tiki Taky Bar”
In a city brimming with outstanding pubs and incredibly affordable beer prices, it’s inherently difficult to choose the best from the best. This quaint little expat bar, however, certainly sticks out from the rest. You’ll swear you’ve landed in Hawaii circa 1967. This place is a charming nook adorned with bamboo interior, tiki motifs, colorful décor and friendly staff. With a 5 am closing time, cheap, tasty fruit cocktails, and smooth lounge tunes, Tiki Taky is a completely incongruent drinking experience against the Old Bloc feel of the backstreets of Prague 3.
Cimburkova 22
Praha 3, Žižkov

Scotland—Edinburgh—“The Nicol Edwards”
Arguably the most haunted venue of all Edinburgh if not the most famous, this underground cavern is extremely popular with locals and students for it’s handsome drink prices and curiously spooky vibe. Shady, claustrophobic and connected to an underground network of medieval vaults that lurk beneath the street level, the Nicol prides itself on its somewhat dank, dingy reputation. But it’s all a part of the experience, with several hidden nooks, vault crannies and a downstairs bar with live music, the cloistered vibe here satisfies, keeping spines tingling, hairs on end, and pint glasses ever full to the brim.
35 Niddry St
Edinburgh EH1 1LG
United Kingdom

Spain—Barcelona—El Raval District
The Spanish know good cerveza, good wine and good times. Ultimately, there are just too many excellent hole-in-the-wall bars, pubs and cafes to mention in Barcelona, but for a good cluster of options in a concentrated nook, check out the lively multicultural El Raval district adjacent La Ramblas. Smooth, chilled out sunset sessions, communal cervezas in the wee hours in cloistered tapas bars, El Raval provides a vibrant hub of nightly excitement that buzzes with action.

Belgium—Brussels—”Au Bon Vieux Temps”
Positioned neatly a good distance from the tourist buzz of the Belgian capital’s many bars and brasseries, Au Bon Vieux Temps is a favorite with locals and visitors in the know. Showcasing a modest yet ample selection of Trappist brews and infused beers, if not the extensive list of hundreds present in some other Belgian venues, the staff is warm and attentive, dedicated to fine brew and providing a relaxed atmosphere. A former monastery in the 1600’s, this really is a pub for locals that features a gorgeous old-style bar with tons of charm.
Impasse St. Nicholas 4,
off Rue Marché Aux Herbes 12

Belgium—Bruges—”‘t Brugs Beertje”
A Bruges (in Dutch it is Brugge) specialty beer house since 1983, ‘t Brugs Beertje is a big attraction for tourists passing through, with it’s over 300 different beer selections, a charming, centuries old setting, and sincere dedication to a truly memorable drinking experience. Not far from the main town square, ‘t Brugs Beertje knows how to pour an excellent beer, with humble, helpful service, a regularly rotating draft beer roster and a thoughtful selection of pub snacks.
Kemelstraat 5
B-8000 Brugge

Written by Cam Hassard for EuropeUpClose.com

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When travelers close their eyes and conjure up an image of England, that image usually includes castles, green rolling fields, quaint villages, and Gothic cathedrals. Arundel, in West Sussex (70 km south of London), offers all of these wonders—and is still a living, breathing example of an old-fashioned market town.

The town of Arundel was founded almost a thousand years ago and has been continuously inhabited ever since. The most obvious attraction is the stunning Norman-style castle, which looms like a fairy tale over the rest of the town. Turrets, tall smooth walls, and pointed windows abound in this fortress, which has been the home of the Duke of Norfolk’s family since the late 16th century. Amazingly, the present-day Duke and his family still live in the castle for half of each year, and then leave it open to the public for the busy summer season.

Tours are offered daily during the summer, and are led by passionate volunteers that are just as in awe of the castle as the tourists are. Guests are led through the armory, chapel, and great hall, all of which have been impeccably preserved. There is a real sense of family history here, as if you were visiting the residence of a (very) wealthy great uncle. The portraits are chronologically-ordered and date all the way back to the 4th Duke of Norfolk. And each subsequent generation has etched their initials somewhere in the interior of the castle. These personal touches are endearing, and lend an unusual dose of humanity to the historical building.

The finale of the tour is a visit to the ‘old’ castle, accessed from the ‘new’ castle by a long stairway. This original structure was built by William the Conqueror in 1067, and includes a dungeon and look-out. The views from these ancient windows are truly marvelous, as the rolling green fields of the South Downs stretch for miles around. The meandering River Arun is also visible, as well as the rest of the town far below.

Before you exit the castle completely, be sure to tour the lovely grounds that include a botanical garden, artistic sculptures, and some fascinatingly morbid crypts. Take a peek inside the famous Arundel Cathedral, which is adjacent to the gardens and open to the public. Conceived in the Gothic Revival style, this Catholic cathedral was built in 1868 and is soaring in height and enormous in scale. The structure was commissioned by the Duke of Norfolk’s family in order to complement their castle, and it certainly fits the bill.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite descending back down the hill into town, do as the English do and enjoy a high tea service. This beloved tradition is alive and well in Arundel, and is available to order in most of the pubs and cafes. Tea, lumps of sugar, clotted cream, jam, and scones are the classic choices, but there is also an array of English pastries to try. ‘Spotted Dick’ is a traditional pudding (dessert) with a rather unfortunate name, and it features the flavors of brandy and raisins. Arundel town itself is also known for its antique shops and the monthly Arundel Farmers Market, so do leave some time for shopping.

On a sunny day, a stroll to the Arundel Wetlands Centre can’t be beat. Only a mile’s walk from town, these waterways provide a range of water-based activities. Guided tours are offered for those interested in bird-watching, and individual rowboats can also be rented by the hour at a nearby pond. If your arteries can handle it, another round of fresh scones with clotted cream are sold by the waterfront. The whole scene seems impossibly idyllic, especially when swans or other waterfowl slowly drift by.

Arundel is reachable from London, Bath, and other English travel hubs. Train timetables can be found at National Rail, and other useful tourist information can be found at Arundel Tourism.

Written by and photos by Amy Vasereno for EuropeUpClose.com

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While visiting London, England, an American tourist may wish to check out the seats of political power and perhaps engage locals in some discussion of their governors. But where’s the equivalent of the White House, who plays the role of the president, and why do many English people seem slightly more detached about politics than their American brethren?

Most of the country’s politics takes place in the Palace of Westminster, where the upper and lower houses of parliament hold their debates. It’s the pointy, 19th-century neo-Gothic building that stands by the Thames river, with the 320-foot clock tower known as Big Ben. Strictly speaking, Big Ben is the 14-ton bell inside, which tolls the hours.

Of the two houses of parliament, it’s the “lower” one, the House of Commons, that has more influence. Each of its occupants has been elected as a member of parliament (MP) for a specific area of the UK, called a “seat” or “constituency.” This might be similar to America’s House of Representatives, but the people in the House of Commons go through a slightly different process to get there. While in the US there is a strong culture of engaged citizens putting themselves forward for office, and stating which party they feel allegiance to without any formal relationship with that party, in the UK decisions about who will run for parliament are generally made by the parties. MPs are literally card-carrying members of the party they represent, and the parties themselves identify and groom promising candidates. The parties even decide in which constituencies those candidates should run, and set the policies.

That might help explain a slightly different culture among ordinary citizens regarding political involvement. When Americans say “I’m a Democrat” or a “I’m a Republican,” it’s not a mere figure of speech. Voters who back a particular party truly feel like they belong to the party – and they could go into active politics under that party’s banner at any time. British voters feel a bit more of a divide, seeing themselves as the recipients of a service, with politicians and parties as the professional service providers. While citizens might loyally support a certain party, they don’t actually belong to it unless they attain membership, which is a specific formal step.

Among other things, this means that primaries – essential to the American election process – make no sense to Brits. Why are several candidates from the same party going to voters, asking them to choose who should go through to the election? A Brit might think it’s not worth voting for a party that can’t decide for itself who its candidates are. Whether you want to take the time to explain the concept to your British hosts may depend on how close you are to last orders at the pub.

Back to Westminster. The upper house of Parliament is the House of Lords, and is much less powerful than the House of Commons. Essentially, it just reviews laws that have already been passed by the lower house, and suggests amendments. Thus, its prominence in public life is lower than that of the US Senate. The House of Lords is not elected. Some of its members are appointed by the monarch in recognition of their contributions to society, be they in the arts, education, business, or a lifetime in public service. In addition, some high-ranking priests get a seat in the House as an automatic part of their job. And, although the hereditary system was abolished in 1999, there are still some members of the House who inherited the right to sit there. If all this strikes an American sensibility as elitist, there’s a good reason for that. It is.

So much for the Parliament. The executive government is a separate thing, right? Well, kind of. A lot of the ministry buildings are found on Whitehall, a street leading north from the Palace of Westminster. But that does not mean that people who hold cabinet positions do all their work on Whitehall. They also spend a lot of their working time in the Palace of Westminster – or in far-flung places throughout the UK. That is because they are simultaneously members of parliament for a particular constituency. The same goes for the prime minister. On top of that, the prime minister is usually the head of his or her political party, leading it in parliamentary debates.

If you want to see where the prime minister lives, prepare to be underwhelmed. The residence is 10 Downing Street, a very big but rather plain-looking townhouse with a black door, located on a street that leads west off Whitehall. This is where, for example, Margaret Thatcher lived from 1979 to 1990 – at least, when she wasn’t visiting her constituency in Finchley, north London. Here, too, resided Tony Blair from 1997 to 2007 – except when he was meeting with constituents in Sedgefield in the north of England.  It’s not unusual for prominent government members to serve as MPs for little-known constituencies. That is because parties like to have their most important politicians run for election in what they consider “safe seats” – areas that are likely to vote for that party. A politician who does not win the constituency is highly unlikely to end up in a cabinet position.

Unlike Americans, Brits do not elect their executive government, and could never have an executive with a different political color from the majority of parliament. When Brits go to the polls, it is to elect their local MPs. Then, whichever party gets the largest number of seats is asked to form the next cabinet. By whom? Why, the monarch, of course.  Everything ultimately comes up to the monarch, Britain’s hereditary head of state. The official church (Church of England), the law courts, and the different branches of government are all answerable to the monarch, even though the monarch usually delegates the real business to others and only performs ceremonial tasks. If you want to see where the monarch lives, go and gaze through the railings at Buckingham Palace, a building dating from the 18th century. It’s slightly west from the sites mentioned so far, at the opposite end of St James’s Park.

So what would happen if the monarch did not invite the winner of the parliamentary election to form the executive government? Wouldn’t there be a popular uprising, with people rebelling against the hereditary monarchy and demanding that their democratic choice be honored?  Don’t count on it. Brits are certainly like Americans in feeling very strongly about their democratic traditions – but not quite as strongly. Most of them would vehemently oppose scrapping the monarchy in favor of an elected president. The pomp and ceremony surrounding the king or queen is something that continues to command a powerful emotional attachment. And that’s not all it does. It’s also a big part of the reason why tourists from other countries visit London.

Written by David Hill for EuropeUpCLose.com

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Just as visits to art galleries and Roman ruins are required on any tour of Europe, shopping is a must-do as well. But don’t be mistaken, shopping in Europe is not like shopping at home. It isn’t about hitting the strip mall to pick up socks and underwear; and if you find yourself in an outlet store, it’s only because there’s a good chance you’ll find discounted Dolce and Gabbana.

In Europe, you can shop for all the fine products you’ve ever dreamed of, from Italian leather to Bohemian Crystal and French perfume, in the very spots they were made, which may also happen to be some of the most beautiful places in the world.

Here, in time for holidays, are the Top 10 Shopping Experiences in Europe. And if you’re lucky enough to visit at Christmastime, you’ll get the added bonus of roasted chestnuts, sparkling lights, and elaborate holiday decorations to help you become the most popular Secret Santa around.

1.    OXFORD STREET – LONDON
It’s Christmastime, so there’s no need to be afraid; unless, of course,  you’re standing in the middle of Oxford Circus at rush hour! Shopping bags a’swinging, free newspapers flying, storefronts all be-dazzled, and The Body Shop on every block. The Christmas Shoppe at Harrod’s might be London’s most beautiful spot for souvenirs, but Oxford Street will really get you in the festive mood. Hundreds of lights are strung high across the street, the window displays of Debenhams and Selfridges are even more elaborate than usual, and street vendors call out “Merry Christmas!” in accents straight out of A Christmas Carol. No city celebrates Christmas quite like London (Dickens’ hometown, after all!) and nowhere does it sparkle more than Oxford Street.

2.    CHAMPS ELYSÉES – PARIS
The “Avenue of Diamonds and Rubies” (named for the steady stream of car headlights and taillights) is the ultimate shopping destination. From quaint patisseries to the world’s largest Adidas shop, anything and everything can be found along this stretch of the world’s most expensive real estate. It’s easy to see why retailers pay millions to set up shop; the history of this broad, tree-lined avenue, designed during the Renaissance by Marie de Medici, is that of the city itself. Parisians in 1940 cried on its sidewalks as Nazi troops celebrated the Surrender of Paris, only to rejoice in those very same spots four years later when Allied troops held their own victory parade. Today, the Bastile Day military parade – the largest in Europe – makes its way along the 2km avenue from the Napoleon-commissioned Arc de Triomphe to Place de La Concorde, as does the last leg of Tour de France. Cafés, croissants, cinemas and champagne – all of Paris is on display on the Champs Elysées, right alongside haute couture in its hometown.

3.    CHRISTMAS MARKETS -PRAGUE
There are Christmas markets all around Europe, but my favourites are the ones in Prague. You can feast on mulled wine, hot sausages and roasted chestnuts while you shop for traditional Bohemian crystal or blown-glass ornaments. The Christmas markets fill the two main town squares with brightly-decorated wooden huts, carollers, and the ever-wafting scent of sugary donuts. Start in the Old Town Square, where a giant Christmas tree, draped with 100,000 lights, soars into the skyline like one of the city’s hundred spires. Then grab another mulled wine and sing Good King Wenceslaus while you walk to Wenceslaus Square, named for that very King who once ruled this golden city.

4.    BELGIUM
Everyone gives the gift of chocolate at Christmas, but if you visit Belgium first, you can upgrade your offering this year. With 175,000 tonnes produced in the country annually, the Belgians are the true masters of chocolate; even the Swiss got their recipe from them. Just like a winery-tour in France, you can visit Belgian chocolatiers to learn the techniques, find the perfect gift, or simply treat yourself. They invented the praline, they perfected the cocoa bean, and among their many other gourmet brands, Belgians proudly offer the world’s most exquisite chocolate: Godiva. Terry’s Chocolate Orange be damned! A trip to Belgium will give you something really impressive to stuff in a stocking.

5.    STOCKHOLM
After you’ve tried to figure out the Swedish language, eaten fermented herring because it’s a local delicacy, and broken the bank doing it all, it’s refreshing to catch a (free!) shuttle bus out to a familiar big, blue store. That’s right, IKEA was born in Stockholm. You’ll get a kick out of seeing all the familiar trappings – meatballs and hot dogs, heart-shaped pillows and bright yellow shopping bags – but with Swedish price tags and Swedish names (like “badpuff” for bath puff) in a building thrice the size of your local. When you’ve had your fill, head back into town and visit H&M, another Stockholm native retailer. It’s okay to crave a little familiarity in a foreign country, and just knowing that these are the originals somehow reduces the guilt while experiencing the pure pleasure of visiting them.

6.    FES, MOROCCO
There is nothing in Europe quite like the old town of Fes el Bali, Morocco. The labyrinthine medina will transport you right back to the 9th century when it was built, so it’s worth the trip over to Northern Africa to experience it. Buy leather products at a tannery that were dyed right before you in giant barrels of colour. Visit a ceramics shop to watch the artists painting intricate vases and ashtrays, or let a carpet-weaver spread his creations before you. And be sure to visit an old apothecary, where you can buy Spanish flies for the more adventurous on your list. There are over 10,000 small shops, some only a few metres wide, nearly all of them family-run. And since Fes is the largest car-free area in the world, you can browse at your leisure, only keeping an eye out for donkeys or wheelbarrows. The best part? At the end of a long shopping day, you can duck into one of the traditional hammams to relax. Just go easy on the opium (yes, also for sale there).

7.    SARAJEVO – BOSNIA
If you don’t want to leave the continent, you can get a similar Medina experience in Sarajevo. Bašaršija, the Ottoman-built old town, is still the commercial and social heart of Sarajevo; the name itself means ‘main market’ in Turkish. It is a cobblestone maze of copper coffee sets, silk scarves, pottery and jewellery. Stop often for coffee breaks as you explore the streets, each dedicated to a particular craft. This 16th century old town is not quite as old as Fes, but, being so near to the rest of modern-day Europe, it feels just as otherworldly.

8.    GETREIDEGASSE – SALZBURG
You came to Salzburg, Austria to see Mozart’s birthplace; how convenient that he was born on one of Europe’s most interesting shopping streets! Getreidegasse is not as glittery as the Champs Elysées, nor as modern as Oxford Street, but its charm lies in its adherence to tradition: each of the shops, from booksellers to shoe stores, must hoist a wrought iron guild sign above its door with a picture of the goods offered inside. Getreidegasse is a throwback to the days when people could shop, but not necessarily read the shop sign. When family-run businesses were dedicated to one trade only, and when young Mozart lived in the house at number 9, composing his first symphonies amid the bustling businesses below.

9.    MILAN
No, you can’t afford to buy anything in Milan, Italy. But that doesn’t matter. Shopping is the whole point of Milan. You don’t need to be a millionaire to admire the posh shopping district where you’re surrounded by gorgeous Italians and their friends, Gucci, Valentino, and Prada. Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Via Sant’Andrea; all the beautiful people in the world pass through these streets, carrying big, bright bags past windows decorated with sparkling jewels and luxurious fabrics. If you’re expecting a gaudy Disneyland of shopping, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by Milan’s demure, elegant scene. You won’t know whether to stare at the clothes, the people or the architecture, and you’ll love every minute of it.

10.    ROVANIEMI
There’s no better gift to send home at Christmas than a personal letter from the real Santa, from his real home at the actual Arctic Circle. You can order knockoffs online, but the real deal can only come from Rovaniemi, way up North in Finnish Lapland where Christmas is celebrated year-round. Stock up on holiday gifts from the Santa Claus Village’s many shops; from ornaments to reindeer meat to hundreds of cards and postcards. My favourite gift? A package of envelopes, chosen from the 600,000 letters sent annually from kids around the world -addressed in crayons and stickers to Mr. Santa Claus, or Babba Natale, or Père Noel. The original Finnish Santa, Joulupukki, was a hairy beast who terrified kids; but don’t worry, he sure offers a nice collection of souvenirs.

Written by Andrea McDonald for EuropeUpClose.com

Fans of French Impressionist art travelling in Europe this winter are in for a treat. Not only are there the usual permanent collections in the museums and art galleries of various European cities, but there are also a number of spectacular temporary Impressionist exhibitions in Europe that bring together art works from institutions and private collections around the world.

The National Gallery of Scotland, Edinburgh.

Edinburgh and Madrid
Thanks to artists such as Monet and Pissarro, the Impressionists are known for their paintings of gardens. Surprisingly then, there has never thus far been an exhibition that explores the garden as a theme in its own right within French Impressionism. The National Gallery of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid have joined forces and curated an amazing exhibition that explores the origins and significance of the Impressionist garden. The exhibition, which brings together over 90 paintings from around the world is on show in Edinburgh until 17 October, when it then moves to Madrid for 16 November 2010 until 14 February 2011.

There are many articles about Edinburgh on Europe a la Carte – just search for Edinburgh, where you will find all sorts of information including restaurant and hotel reviews as well as lots of information about other attractions. And Andy has some tips for Saving Money in Madrid.

Le Grand Palais

Paris
There is not one, but two exhibitions of Claude Monet’s work not to be missed in Paris this winter. The first, already open – and closing 24 January 2011, is a retrospective of Monet’s painting organised by the Musée d’Orsay at the Grand Palais on the Champs Elysées. Some 170 paintings have been brought together to show his painting changed over his lifetime, during which he is said to have made some 2500 paintings. Sadly, some of the more iconic paintings will not be included in this exhibition, for example the very painting that gave rise to the name Impressionism. This is because there is a bit of rivalry between the Musée d’Orsay and the Musée Marmottan Monet.

Not to be out done by the already very popular exhibition at the Grand Palais (tickets for the guided tours of the show have already sold out), the Marmottan has curated an exhibition of its own. Monet: his Museum, 7 October 2010 – 20 February 2011, has not only been designed to remind us which is the World’s leading Monet museum, but it also displays other artefacts of Monet’s related to his painting.

And don’t forget to read Karen’s Best of Paris Travel tips, a summary of all that is good about Paris on Europe a la Carte; or should that be all that is good on Europe a La Carte about Paris?

Martigny
When the exhibition at the Marmottan closes, much of their collection will head over to Switzerland and the Pierre Gianadda Foundation in Martigny for next summer. The Marmottan collection will be on show from 17 June – 20 November 2011 with the various Monet paintings in the various private and public collections held in Switzerland. This promises to be a great exhibition, with a number of private collections on show for the first time in ages.

London
Opening tomorrow and closing 16 January 2011 is Gauguin at the Tate Modern. This is said to be one of the most significant exhibition of the great artist’s work in over 50 years. Most people think of Gauguin as a post-Impressionist, but he did start out as an Impressionist having been trained by my favourite Impressionist painter Camille Pissarro. Gaugin is well known for his wonderful paintings of women in Tahiti.

The Tate Modern is located on London’s Southbank – read Heather’s list of free things to do on the Southbank.

Europe is Awash with Impressionist Exhibitions this Winter

Browse through our Europe travel tips to find the best places to visit in Europe. Content published on Europe a la Carte.

Some months ago my French neighbours, who have never been outside of France before and do not speak a word of English, asked me if I would take them to London. Of course I would, not realising that passports needed to be applied for before any Europe travel planning could be done. Once all official hurdles were surmounted, Eurotunnel and hotel reservations made, off we set last week for a few days introduction to what for me is the European city for everyone.

With only a few days I did feel the pressure was on for me to deliver. My neighbours have been very good to me since I settled into my new home in rural Normandy, and so I wanted them to have a great time in London.

After an obligatory first stop at the British Museum (well, I am an archaeologist), I decided on an open top bus tour for our London sightseeing. I could not have imagined how perfect that choice could have been. For only £25 we had a 24 hour pass with a River Thames boat trip included. And we made the best use of our passes. Non-English speakers be careful, not all the routes have translated commentaries. I know London quite well, and so I just sat back in the glorious weather we were lucky to have and listened to my iPod while my French friends listened to the French commentary, interrupting my reverie when we passed Waterloo of course!

Tower Bridge from the top of a bus.

On one of the tours we got off the bus at the Tower of London and after exploring that for a bit, we hopped on a boat to Westminster. You can take the boat from Westminster to the Tower of London, but I had been advised by the person who sold us the ticket that the best way to do it was to go from the Tower to Westminster.

The Palace of Westminster from the Thames

Of course, I thought I had to take my friends on the London Eye, and I was amused to see Kimberly’s recent post on the London Eye on my return home. This was my second time on the Eye, but I must say I found it to be an “expensive time wasting disappointment”, to use Kimberly’s words.

I had opted for the ‘fast-track’ tickets, i.e. £10 more expensive, because I was told by the cashier “You walk straight on to the pod”. I would have been happy to pay the standard £17.95 and suffered the 20 minute wait because with a fast-track ticket we did not walk straight onto the pod – after the security check you join the queue like everyone else. When I visited the London Eye, the fast-track ticket was definitely not necessary, so my Europe travel tip for anyone really wanting to visit the London Eye, do ask about the waiting times for standard and fast track tickets before you part with any money. And if they misrepresent the difference, ask for a refund – I did and I got it, no questions asked!

Roof-tops from the London Eye.

The queueing aside, I did feel the London Eye was a disappointment, particularly after the open-top bus tours and the Thames River cruise. Even on a clear day, all you really see is the tops of various buildings and their cooling apparatus – you get a much better feel for London, its architecture and history from a boat or a bus. And while my French friends certainly enjoyed the London Eye, they preferred the bus tours much more.

The highlight for us all was an afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason. For people who had somewhat stereotypical views about the English and their cuisine, afternoon tea was a special treat and a pleasant surprise. For only £22, it starts with champagne; smoked salmon and roquette sandwiches; scones, strawberry jam and clotted cream; apricot roulade; and choice of wonderful tea. Not only was this the first time out of France this was their first taste of real tea!

And of course, we also enjoyed the Elephant Parade, on foot and from the tops of various buses.

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park is a popular London attraction. I’m not sure that I’d describe it as a fountain, it’s more like a very solid oval channel, which at first sight looks as if it’s constructed from concrete, when in fact it’s made of Cornish granite. It lies on a slight slope with water flowing in two directions from the top over various contours such as steps, pebble shapes and wavy raised patterns, towards a pool at the bottom.  You are allowed to sit at the edge of the fountain and dip your feet in the cooling stream but you shouldn’t walk on the fountain.

My Europe travel tip would be to visit the Diana Memorial Fountain soon after opening at 10am or later in the evening when it’s not so busy.  I was there on a Saturday evening in mid June 2010 around 7pm.  You should check the closing time as it varies by season.

I think that the Diana Memorial Fountain would have been more attractive if a pink granite had been used instead of grey granite, which makes the memorial look more like a large utilitarian concrete drainage channel in places.

Have you visited the Diana Memorial Fountain, what did you think of it?

I spent 5 days in London in June 2010.   Knowing that London is one of the best places to visit in Europe,  I asked for tips on things to do in London, on Twitter and Facebook, as well as the Europe a la Carte Blog, to help plan my London sightseeing itinerary.  Below are the London travel tips I received, plus some from me, to help with your Europe travel planning.

The London Eye

Twitter Tips

@MoniqueinParis reckons that London Walks are a must, she goes on one every time she’s in London.

@LondonTeaTips recommends Dennis Severs House and Afternoon Tea at the Original Maids of Honour.

@Dreamof Italy suggest a visit to the Churchill War Rooms and Hampstead Heath.

@ColmHanratty reckons his ‘10 things in London‘ video offers some good ideas.

@EPok says that an Olympic Guided Walk should be interesting.

@lanini123 thinks that the Grace Kelly:  Style Icon exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Winston Churchill Museum and War Rooms are worth visiting.

Blog Comment Tips

Pamm recommends the Sir John Soane Museum which was actually his home, so typically “London” of that period in history and fascinating in its own right.

Sir John Soane Museum by mcbrewste

S Brown of the Palm Hotel London suggest some free events in London; Tango in Spitalfields Market, Late nights in London Museums- visit the V & A after hours. What about musical tour of London to take in Abbey Road crossing and Jimi Hendrix House Museum.Hopefully in June it will be warm, so dangle your feet in the fountains in Trafalgar square.

Sophie’s World: Sophie would add the Saatchi Gallery.

Feng Zhengjie at the Saatchi Gallery by dekcuf

Rainbowsurfer of Epok: I don’t know what sort of music you’re into but the Royal Albert Hall have £10 tickets for late night jazz on the 16th.   There’s the Vintage Fair at Primrose Hill and as an added bonus you can take some great photos from the hill afterwards.

Creative Voyage: I wrote a blog post “How to visit London“.  I would add that walking from Islington to the Thames is brilliant takes about 4 and a half hours along Regent’s canal with a stop off for coffee at Victoria Park in Hackney. The tour of the old rose theatre which you get a tthe Globe Theatre is well worth doing as well. Just walking along the river is fantasitc and free. Taking a boat trip – check out the regular services. A tour of Highgate Cemetary is also fascinating. Also get yourself a Oyster Card when you arrive makes using public transport so much easier – and finally get to grips with the buses rather than the underground slower but lovely to see where you are going.

My tips

I enjoyed elephant spotting in the Elephant Parade around London.

The tiger elephant in Chinatown

I’d also recommend the Chelsea Physic Garden established in 1673 to grow medicinal plants.

Chelsea Physic Garden

The Diana Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park is a ideal spot to chill and revive after a hard day London sightseeing by dangling your feet in the cooling stream.

Diana Memorial Fountain

If you have any tips for things to do in London,  please leave a comment and I’ll add your Europe travel tip to this post.