Bordered by Germany, Austria, Poland, and Slovakia, the Czech Republic is a small country located in Central Europe.  In 1989, the Velvet Revolution facilitated a non-violent overthrow of Communism, and since that historic time, the Czech Republic has grown into a well-developed, democratic country.

The Czech Republic’s tourism dates from the time of the Velvet Revolution, and now offers visitors wonderful diversity and delights.  Well-known for its talented musicians and concerts, there are also a variety of travel festivals to choose from in this country. In addition, fairytale castles, historic churches, public parks, chic spas, and medieval towns are waiting to be explored.  The Czech Republic is also the birthplace of the world’s finest beer.

The Czech Republic is divided into two provinces, Bohemia and Moravia, and because the travel accommodations are superb, it is easy to visit any location.   You can choose to go by train, bus, car, air, or even bicycle. 

Moravia’s capital is Brno, and dates from the 13th century.  travel attractions here include the Capuchin Church, complete with mummies, the Gothic Špilberk Castle, and the Moravia Museum.  There is also an Augustinian Monastery where the Father of Genetics, Gregor Mendel, was Abbot.  Oddly enough, in Moravia wine is more popular than beer.  Enjoy the rolling ranges, wooded hills, and beautiful vineyards.

Bohemia lies in the western part of the Czech Republic, and its capital is Prague.  Bohemia offers tourists a variety of spa towns and ski resorts.  Other attractions include the medieval town of Èeský Krumlov, and the Šumava Mountains, which offer superb hiking, as well as other sports.  Famed for its caves, southern Bohemia is also popular for copious recreational facilities and points of interest, as well as picturesque lakes and woods. 

Called Budweis in English, Ceské Budejovice built its wealth on silver mines, and offers tourists one of Europe’s largest town squares. Despite this, it is the local beer which gives this town its notoriety.  The Budweiser Budvar Brewery, or Pivovar Budejovický Budvar, was founded in 1895, and still markets its beer under the Budweiser brand throughout Europe.  Although Anheuser-Busch has offered to purchase the Czech brewing company, in a bid to secure global rights to the Budweiser name, the Czech residents continue to refuse all offers.  It is their belief that this rich heritage is a matter of national pride.

It is impossible to visit the Czech Republic without stopping in Prague, its capital.  Found in the middle of Bohemia, Prague is offers a delightful mixture of museums, galleries, concerts, and castles.  Now considered the Paris of the East, this quaint city has recaptured its café culture since the fall of Communism.

Plzen lies to the south of Prague.  The second-largest city in Bohemia, Plzen is replete with eclectic architecture, which ranges from Gothic to Art Nouveau.   Its many museums and galleries are popular with tourists, as well.  Make sure to stop by the Plzenský Prazdroj brewery.  They have been brewing beer since the town’s foundation, in 1295. As a matter of fact, the town takes its name from the world-famous Plisner beer.

After spending centuries under Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule, Estonia finally achieved full independence on August 20, 1991.  A country of about 1.5 million people, tiny Estonia is progressively growing into a modern market economy, spurred by strong telecom and electronics industries, and growing ties to the West.

Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, is one of the more industrialized cities in the Baltics, and Tallinn’s Old Town, which dates from the 11th century, is a big travel favorite with tourists.  Its cobbled streets wind through both, Lower Town, which operated independently, and Toompea Hill, the residential area of the aristocracy.  By the 16th century, the walls and fortresses of Old Town were one of the strongest defensive formations in northern Europe.  Old Town’s most dominating landmark was not built until 1894, but the Alexander Nevsky Russian Orthodox Cathedral, is worth a trip to see.

Housing close to 6,000 animals, another travel favorite attraction is Tallinn’s Zoo, but you do not want to forget about Rocca al Mare Tivoli, either, which is Estonia’s largest amusement park.  The Botanical Garden is magnificent, as well, covering 110 hectares.  It has more than 8,000 plant species from all over the world, and specialized exhibit are changed every month. 

Tallinn is the home of the superb, pink baroque, Kadriorg Palace.  The summer home of Russian Tsar, Peter I, traveling today this palace stands in the center of a seaside resort, and houses the Estonian Art Museum.  It is also the setting for a wide variety of concerts, theatrical performances, lectures, and receptions. 

Tallinn is not the only fascinating spot in the country of Estonia. You might want to check out the Estonian Open Air Museum, which is located on Kopli Bay.  This is a charming stretch of forest parkland, which holds a preserved collection of historic, relocated Estonian buildings.  Haapsalu is located on Estonia’s western coast, and is another rewarding visit. The guest lodges, deserted beaches, and 13th century ruins are visitor favorites, as is the Gothic cathedral.  There’s even a castle that boasts its very own specter, but the ghost is only visible during August’s full moon.

Still wearing traditional Estonia costumes, the inhabitants of the tiny island of Kihnu uphold their rich tradition and heritage.  Lahemaa National Park, one of four in Estonia, has beautiful waterfalls, a scenic river, and tantalizing coastal scenes, as well as fourteen lakes and a few archaeological digs.

Parnu is another attraction.  Found on the southern coast, this city has been a human settlement since 7500 B.C.   Tourists can walk through the Old Town and Town Center, and see the Red Tower, Swedish ramparts, and a 17th century house.  Moreover, do not forget the Neoclassical baths, where visitors restore their skin and enhance beauty with traditional mud baths. 

The summer is a great time to visit Estonia, but spring and fall season are beautiful, too.  If you prefer winter, you will get a chance to see the Christmas Market, which is held in Tallin’s Old Town every December.

General Overview – The country of Belgium is situated on the western part of the European continent.  Known officially as the Kingdom of Belgium, it is one of the founding members of the European Union and the home of some of the most famous international organizations such as NATO and OECD.  It shares its borders with the countries of Germany, the Netherlands, France and Luxembourg.  The country is primarily characterized as one made up of coastal plains on the north, mountain ranges and lush forests on the south and rolling hillsides at its center.  Because of its strategic travel location, the country has not only been the center of communication and transport in the region.  It is also considered as one of the economic centers of Europe.

Climate – Since Belgium is situated right beside the North Sea, travelers would expect to experience a maritime climate during their stay in the country.  January is considered as the coldest time in Belgium while the months of February to July are relatively rainy months.  Compared to the other countries of Europe, the winter months in Belgium are relatively warm, with the coldest temperature being recorded at 3 degrees Celsius.

When to Visit – Although Belgium is a country that is visited by travelers all year round, the best times to travel the country is during the months of July and August.  It is during these months that the temperatures are warm enough to make your travel around the country comfortable.  Rates during these months are also at its lowest, which is always a plus for any tourist traveling on a budget.

Top Destinations – Brussels.  Apart from being the capital of Belgium, Brussels provides travelers a unique blend of the old and the new.  On one hand, travelers are treated to magnificent buildings and infrastructures, many of which have been built as early as the 13th century.  On the other, the city is a bustling metropolis where travelers are able to shop at contemporary shopping malls and visit modern day landmarks such as the headquarters of NATO.

Places to Visit – The locals of Belgium pride themselves for their rich historical and cultural heritage, fine food and beautiful landscapes.  If you are visiting the country for the first time, the best place to start is in the capital city of Brussels.  Known as one of the centers of commerce and transportation in Europe, the city of Brussels offers travelers a perfect blend of the old and the new.  On one corner, you are welcomed by magnificent buildings boasting exquisite samples of architectural designs dating to as far back as the 13th century.  Turn around the corner and you are surrounded by rows of modern-day shopping malls offering the latest fashion trends in Europe.  While visiting the city of Brussels, make sure to sample one of the local specialties called mitraillete.  This filling snack made out of fried potatoes, meat and garlic and stuffed in a bun serves as a perfect accompaniment to any of the beers brewed in this city, which have been fondly called by the locals as the “City of a Thousand Beers.”

Waterloo.  Located 10 miles from the capital of Brussels, Waterloo is considered as one of the top tourist destinations in the country because of its historical importance.  It was, after all, here where the great French General Napoleon was defeated. 

Dining in Belgium

The country of Belgium is situated on the western part of Europe.  It is bordered by the countries of France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands.  A land known for its rich cultural and historical heritage, great chocolates and temperate climate, Belgium is now becoming one of the top travel destinations in Europe.  It offers travelers a perfect blend of the old, the new and the natural.  If you are planning to head out to Belgium, here are just some helpful travel tips to make the most out of your trip to this wonderful country.

When to Go – Because of its temperate maritime climate, Belgium is one of the countries that pays host to hundreds of travelers all year round.  Compared to its neighboring countries, travelers visiting the country of Belgium would be able to experience warm summers and winters as well.  The coldest temperatures are usually experienced during the month of January where the temperatures do not go below 3 degrees Celsius. 

The best time to travel the country is during the months of July and August.  During this time, the temperatures are just ideal for you to explore the outdoors which can be quite a problem before these months since the climate of the country is known for frequent rainfalls.  On top of that, the months of July and August are when the rates in hotels and other accommodations are at its lowest, which is perfect especially if you are traveling on a budget.

Places to Visit – There are so many things to do and so much to see while you are visiting Belgium.  The capital city of Brussels is an ideal starting point for any traveler.  Here, you can experience the perfect mixture of the old with the new.  Modern day shopping malls selling the top fashion trends in Europe and headquarters of NATO and OECD are located right beside beautifully crafted buildings and infrastructures, many of which have been built during the 13th century.

Top Tourist Spots – The best place to start to learn about any country is starting at its capital.  In the case of Belgium, it is the city of Brussels.  Here, travelers would be able to experience something old and something new.  Modern-day shopping malls and the headquarters of NATO can be found right next to beautiful buildings dating back to the 13th century.  This is also where the trendiest pubs and restaurants are also found.  While you are in Brussels, make sure to take some time to sample their beers.  This is where most of the breweries of the country can be found, thus giving the city of Brussels the nickname The City of a Thousand Beers.

For a dose of culture, head out to the town of Bruges.  Here, travelers can visit a number of different museums that feature some of the finest artworks by both contemporary local artists as well as some of the famous artists in all of Europe. 

Food to Taste – No trip to Belgium is complete without sampling some of the finest chocolates in the world.  While you are at it, sample some of the unique blends of beer that is brewed in the country, particularly in the city of Brussels which is known locally as the city of a thousand beers.  Make sure that you leave room to try mitraillete, a favorite local snack in the country which is made out of fried potatoes, quality cut meat and loads of garlic.

Set in the northern part of Europe, the country of Finland is bordered by Sweden, Norway, Russia, and the Gulf of Finland.  It has an impressive 30,000 islands off its coast, and 188,000 island lakes, which makes this Nordic country renowned as one of Europe’s most striking travel destinations. Still, regardless of such beauty, Finland’s past was tumultuous.  At one time, it was caught in a tug-of-war between Sweden and Russia, and in fact, did not declare its independence until 1917.

Today, Finland’s residents enjoy a high standard of living, and Finland is a modern, progressive country.  Its capital, Helsinki, was founded in 1550, and boasts cosmopolitan comforts and a vivacious nightlife.  Whether you are into museums, a travel through the archipelago, or just want a Finnish sauna, you will want to stop in Helsinki.

One of Helsinki’s most famous travel attractions is Temppeliaukia Church.  It was built by brothers Timo and Tuomo Suomalainen, and they carved it into solid rock.  Another favorite stop is Soumenlinna, an 18th century Sea Fortress.  It was originally constructed to secure Helsinki against Russial attacks.  Built in the 1740′s, it is one of the largest in the world. 

Finland boasts more museums per capita, than any other place in the world.  Two that top the list are Ateneum Art Museum, and National Museum.  Moreover, if it’s a castle and moat you want to see, stop at Hame Castle.   It was built in the 13th century, then converted to a prison in the 1830′s.  Now, however, it has been restored to a modern-day museum. 

Constructed in 1950, Korkeasaari Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the world.  Another must-see is the Olympic Stadium.  It was built in 1940, but due to WWII, the games were cancelled.  It was not until 1952 that Finland finally hosted the Olympic Games.  

St. Olaf’s Castle, Olavinlinna, is one of Finland’s better known attractions.   This 500-year-old castle is balanced on the edge of a tiny green island lake, and looks like it came right out of a fairytale.  The King’s Road is worth seeing, as well.  Winding along the southern coastline, this road once connected Sweden and Russia, and still has many intact taverns, castles, manor houses, cottages, and stone churches.

If you want to see a medieval town, Turku is the oldest in Finland, and worth the visit.  This 750-year-old town was at one time, Finland’s capital.  It has a 13th century castle that has been restored, and it now serves as a Viking museum.  Of course, if you are in Finland, you must see the Land of the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights.  Sparsely populated, this wilderness is known for its open fells and hills, uninhabited forests, lakes as clear as crystal, babbling brooks and foaming rapids.  Be sure to try the salmon, or maybe a reindeer steak, and taste some rare golden cloudberry wine.  Lapland is, of course, the home of Santa Claus.  Definitely plan a trip to visit Santapark. It is St. Nick’s very own theme park!