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<p>An African jewel, Nairobi acts as a magnet for those wishing to find first-class cosmopolitan creature comforts as well as wild beasts in all their marvellous nobility in the city’s national park. Indeed, the Kenyan capital’s attractions have mushroomed over the years to include great restaurants and nightlife, world-class museums and historic buildings, and a fantastic range of things to see and do.</p>



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<p>Serving as an important economic, financial and transportation hub, the fast-growing city is the most populous is East Africa and its 5.5 million souls bring a vibrancy to the local cultural scene. Named by the Maasai as a place of cool waters, its diversity and myriad pleasures leave visitors yearning to return and sample them once more. Weather-wise, it is a congenial destination, with June through to September among the driest months and when Nairobi National Park is at its best.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trees and Towers</h3>



<p>Welcoming settlers from all over Africa, Asia, Europe and North America, Nairobi is a melting pot as befits a major commercial centre. In the central district, a towering skyline rises above a soothing backdrop of trees, beautiful gardens and shaded avenues. Many of trees are not native to Kenya and were planted by city administrators keen to nurture an urban oasis from dusty, humble origins. However, indigenous forest preserved within City Park, just north of downtown, adds to the green splendour. Saved from the bulldozer by Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai, Uhuru Park is a vast recreational area and popular place to relax from the hustle and bustle of central Nairobi.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-1024x742.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86112" width="768" height="557" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-1024x742.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-386x280.jpg 386w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-768x557.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-200x145.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18-800x580.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_18.jpg 1380w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Just next to City Square with its imposing statue of the founding father of modern Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta, is the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), perhaps the best-known landmark in the city. A fusion of modern and local styles, KICC’s interior has been distinctly ‘Africanised’ and contains an amphitheatre designed in the shape of a traditional hut. A speedy lift takes eager visitors to the top floor of this 32-storey, saucer-topped tower – formerly the city’s tallest building – for magnificent views of Nairobi’s chaotic glory and the hinterland beyond. On clear days it is possible to spy the rugged summit of Mount Kenya, the second-highest peak in Africa.</p>



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<p>The city’s Parliament Buildings are another notable monument, where entry into the National Assembly can be obtained to see African democracy in action, or a tour arranged with the sergeant-at-arms.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">National Treasures</h3>



<p>History buffs will want to explore the Nairobi National Museum, which reflects the story of Kenya. Established in 1910 and set within lush, leafy grounds just outside the city centre, this imposing edifice is one of the oldest museums in East Africa. It is full of amazing artefacts such as ceremonial Siwa horns dating back to 1688, ethnographic paintings of Kenya’s tribes inked by naturalist Joy Adamson of Born Free fame, and a Kalenjin cloak made from the skins of Sykes’ monkeys. Of special note is the life-size replica of the massive elephant known as Ahmed, who was considered to be largest tusker at the time of the country’s independence from Britain in 1963, and was accorded special status by President Jomo Kenyatta.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86093" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-2048x1536.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_01-800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>An extensive array of stuffed species spans an aardvark, a giant forest hog and an okapi (zebra giraffe). The Hominid Skull Room contains an extraordinary range of early human fossils in perhaps one of the best collections in the world. Another room is dedicated to the history of Kenya in the context of East Africa.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Out of Africa</h3>



<p>The nearby Snake Park is a great place to see animals alive and unfettered. It boasts an impressive range of serpents, most notably the puff adder, black mamba, Egyptian cobra, African rock python and the Gaboon viper, whose four-centimetre-long fangs offer a slightly menacing presence. Other draws here are exotic fish, lizards, turtles and crocodiles.</p>



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<p>Situated some 10 kilometres outside central Nairobi, the Karen Blixen Museum is a must-visit for those who loved the film Out of Africa. The Danish author resided here on a coffee plantation between 1914 and 1931, and the colonial elegance of the property set in charming gardens has been preserved. The building contains memorabilia from Blixen’s time in Africa and the shooting of the film. Guided tours are available that detail her tumultuous life and times.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1024x602.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86113" width="768" height="452" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1024x602.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-476x280.jpg 476w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-768x452.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-1536x903.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-2048x1205.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-200x118.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_20-800x471.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>To absorb some of Africa’s rich indigenous culture, head to Bomas of Kenya, a tourist village also located to the southwest of the city. It consists of clusters of homesteads (bomas) representing various Kenyan tribal groups. Among a repertoire of some 50 traditional dances and songs performed by different ethnic communities expect Embu drumming, an enactment of a Kikuyu circumcision ceremony, spectacular Kalenjin warrior dances and Arabic-influenced Swahili music.</p>



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<p>For a more static taste of local tradition, the African Heritage House overlooking Nairobi National Park showcases African architecture in a range of styles. An overnight stay here is recommended.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Game Show</h3>



<p>The National Park, established in 1946, is by far the most popular tourist destination in the city. Offering an unforgettable chance to view rhinos and lions within sight of Nairobi’s modern skyscrapers, this amazing tract of grassland and acacia savannah is fenced on the city side to protect its domestic population. Nothing like it exists elsewhere in Africa – world-class game viewing in a park straddling the southern outskirts of a national capital.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86101" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_07-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Open plains slope gently from west to east while rocky ridges are covered in rich vegetation. Streams run southeast into the Mbagathi river, and even during the dry season the park has a permanent source of water, which enables it to attract big game. Four of the Big Five – buffalo, leopard, lion and rhino – reside in the park, with only elephants absent as the reserve is too small to support them. Rangers keep visitors regularly updated on the movements of lions and hyenas, as well as the resident cheetahs and leopards, which can require more patience to spot. The world’s densest population of black rhinos is found here too. Other animals often spotted in the park are gazelles, warthogs, zebras, giraffes, ostriches and buffaloes.</p>



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<p>Nairobi Safari Walk run by the Kenya Wildlife Service, whose headquarters is located near one of the entrances, offers tourists the chance to see some of the Nairobi’s wilder residents from the safety of a raised boardwalk. Nestled inside the park is the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust nursery, where handlers bottle-feed groups of baby elephants. Not far off, in the suburb of Lang’ata, the Giraffe Centre also allows visitors to witness conservation efforts, particularly with regard to the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Feeding Time</h3>



<p>Such are its depth of offerings and breadth of flavours that Nairobi is considered one of the culinary capitals of Africa. There is a plethora of great restaurants and cafes to try, and some have gorgeous garden settings, making eating out even more enjoyable. The Westlands and Karen neighbourhoods are blessed with an array of upmarket dining options. Lord Delamere Terrace is a sophisticated eatery which allows visitors to taste old-style Africa; it also features one of the continent’s classic bars. The Karen Blixen Coffee Garden has a wonderful English country-garden vibe, with dishes ranging from gourmet burgers to Swahili curries. Its Sunday lunch buffet is popular.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-86100" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Kenya_06-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>For a uniquely ‘Out of Africa’ culinary experience, seek out Carnivore, one of the most famous restaurants in the city. Billed as a Beast of a Feast since 1980, its speciality is nyama choma (barbecued meat). Near the entrance is a huge barbecue pit crammed full of Maasai swords laden with beef, pork, lamb, chicken and farmed game meat such as crocodile and ostrich. The all-you-can-eat meat comes with salad, vegetable sides and sauces, plus a soup of the day. Once satiated, diners are encouraged to cease the feeding frenzy and move onto dessert and coffee by lowering a white paper flag.</p>


Kenya Best: From cultural melting pot to wild-animal magic, Nairobi is a welcoming city of cool contrasts 


<p>Fiji is a breathtakingly beautiful collection of 333 islands in the South Pacific exuding such warmth and charm that even a fleeting visit will be a memorable experience. For the outdoors enthusiast, it is paradise on land and sea, from superb hiking to mid-ocean surfing. Some isles offer sumptuous high-end tourism as fabulous resorts spill out into tranquil and dazzling sapphire-blue waters. Here, scuba diving and snorkelling promise the possibility of encounters with sharks, manta rays, colourful fish and diving through magical cave complexes. On the main island of Viti Levu, the capital Suva is a thriving cosmopolitan melting pot of great restaurants, nightlife and cultural attractions.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85823" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-200x113.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied-800x450.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/101142-River-Rafting_Credit-Tourism-Fiji_Supplied.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>About two-thirds of Fiji’s islands are uninhabited, and a population of just over 900,000 primarily comprises indigenous people of Melanesian and Polynesian extraction, Indo-Fijians of Indian origin, Chinese, and those of mixed Fijian-European ancestry. A vast proportion of land remains tribally owned, and there are many communal villages where locals have a subsistence lifestyle. English is an official language and spoken by most Fijians alongside their mother tongue.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85832" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Fiji_Scuba_01-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The best time to visit Fiji is undoubtedly during the dry season between May and October, when temperatures hover around 25°C by day and southerly trade winds tame the heat of the months at the turn of the year.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Island resorts</h3>



<p>Fiji is one of the best places in the world to indulge in a pampered getaway. There are a slew of magnificent private islands where it is possible to remove yourself from social contact to the utmost extent and elegant resorts that transport you to a haven of unending luxury concealed behind a veil of natural wonder. These retreats are ideal for honeymooners looking for a romantic escape and couples requiring quality time together, or those simply seeking glorious solitude.</p>



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<p>Guests arriving at upscale property may be welcomed by a group of locals performing a meke – a traditional dance that folds in storytelling through song to make a spectacular show.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85825" width="768" height="576" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-373x280.jpg 373w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-768x576.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-200x150.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21-800x600.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/best-luxury-resorts-fiji21.jpg 1792w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The Mamanuca Islands located off the west coast of Viti Levu boast some of the country’s best hotels and resorts, sublime beaches and tiny coral cays – a plethora of gorgeous gold and green strips of land dabbed onto radiant blue waters by the painter’s brush. Spectacular and vibrant corals glisten in the depths below and brightly coloured fish gleam under an azure sky.</p>



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<p>Conviviality is guaranteed on Malolo and Mana, the two busiest and most popular islands here. To get away from the crowds and enjoy quiet time with your partner, head to Tadrai Island Resort, an adults-only, all-inclusive retreat on the secluded eastern coast of Mana.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1024x703.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85827" width="768" height="527" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1024x703.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-408x280.jpg 408w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-768x527.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-200x137.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205-800x549.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Denarau-Ps-Web-0205.jpg 1749w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Malolo is the biggest island in the Mamanucas and offers a wide variety of accommodation and levels of luxury. Malolo Island Resort invites with a string of exciting experiences such as snorkelling, diving and line fishing, as well as dolphin-watching safaris, hiking trips to the island’s hilltop and Fijian cooking lessons, followed by the chance to relax at the fabulous terrace restaurant with a cool cocktail. Other premium resorts promising supreme exclusivity are Likuliku Lagoon, an enclave of overwater villas in an isolated bay, and the private island Wadigi Lodge, set on a tiny outcrop.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shore leave</h3>



<p>Year-round calm oceans make the Mamanucas the perfect spot for yacht chartering and cruising. An abundance of operators provide a wide array of outings, ranging from sunset dinner cruises with Champagne and lobster to overnight jaunts on a schooner. Fishing tours offer the chance to catch and cook the big ones that didn’t get away – think trevally and tuna found in deep water beyond the reefs.<br>World-class surfing beckons in the far south of these islands. At Cloudbreak, the most iconic site not far from Tavarua, dramatic waves are created by water being pushed up along steep and lengthy shallow reefs. Boat trips offer non-surfers the exhilarating experience of admiring these amazing mid-sea break points from a position of safety.</p>



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<p>Excursions to private islands offer unparalleled opportunities to snorkel in freshwater lagoons, and perhaps sip kava, the national drink for special occasions, during a traditional ceremony. For a different taste of the wild, Cloud 9 is a two-level pontoon on a turquoise lagoon where a thrilling party atmosphere is succoured by Italian wood-fired pizzeria and a well-stocked bar.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85828" width="768" height="513" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-419x280.jpg 419w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-768x513.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-2048x1367.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-200x134.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/DSC7316-scaled-1-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The placid currents and amazing visibility of the waters around the Mamanucas are ideal for water sports. Notable dive sites ideal for beginners include Bird Rock, a resplendent reef dropping down 40 metres featuring caves and spectacular swim-throughs; Fish Market where schools of vibrant marine life circle around coral reefs; Gotham City with its peculiar-looking batfish, and the wreck of the Salamanda, which forms an artificial reef replete with pufferfish.</p>



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<p>Some scuba aficionados hail Beqa Lagoon, located about 12 kilometres south of the Viti Levu town of Pacific Harbour, as the best site on earth for open-water shark diving. This protected area teems with up to eight species of sharks including the reef, silvertip, tawny nurse and sicklefin lemon, and the occasional fearsome bull shark. The gorgeous soft corals of Rainbow Reef off the south coast of Fiji’s other large island, Vanua Levu, set the underwater scene for superb drift diving.</p>


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<p>For visitors with an unbridled sense of adventure, there are also opportunities to paddle around the Fijian islands on sea-kayaking expeditions and stay overnight at remote fishing villages. Away from the coast, explore the mystical Namosi Highlands on Viti Levu and go whitewater river rafting.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Walks on the wild side</h3>



<p>Fiji is blessed with a host of eco-resorts where the joys of nature can be enjoyed at a more leisurely pace. At Como Laucala Island, for instance, a luxurious retreat occupying a private island surrounded by luscious blue Melanesian waters, guided hikes through dense ancient tropical forest can be taken to spy rare exotic birds. Other exclusive treats include horse riding; spending a night in seclusion on an uninhabited island; participating in a water purification ceremony at a sacred temple; and night snorkelling among corals with UV torches to create a stunning light show.</p>



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<p>You don’t have to stay on an elite private island to experience excellent hiking. Some of the best walks can be found on Taveuni, where a national park offers fantastic forest trails. A hike on Ovalau can take the intrepid explorer into the crater of an extinct volcano. Willing walkers can also wend their way through quaint villages in the interior highlands of Viti Levu.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Savouring Suva</h3>



<p>The country’s present-day capital offers a slice of tropical town life in the South Pacific and the chance to view relics of its colonial history. A visit to the Fiji Museum is a must, where the eclectic range of exhibits includes killing stones, cannibal forks and the soles of the shoes of the Reverend Thomas Baker, an English missionary who was devoured by cannibals in 1867. Indeed, Fiji’s cannibal past is a source of deep fascination for many visitors.</p>


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<p>Compared with the old capital, Levuka, which has a much sleepier vibe, Suva not only has the best shopping, it also puts on the best entertainment. The most hyped bars and clubs can be found around MacArthur Street and Victoria Parade, where the sister establishments of Shenanigans Nightclub and O’Reilly’s Bar are popular draws for party animals on the prowl for cool dance beats; they are hotspots for pours of the local brews, particularly Fiji Bitter and Fiji Gold.</p>



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<p>The food found in Fiji is enriched by a preponderance of cultures and influences, resulting in enticing spreads of iTaukei (traditional local fare), Chinese, Indian, Polynesian and European dishes, plus fusions of all these flavours. Fruit and vegetables feature strongly in modern Fijian cuisine, with home-grown papayas, mangoes and avocados particularly popular.</p>


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<p>Kanu, a gastropub helmed by Australian chef Lance Seeto, offers great seafood and meat in Fijian and international preparations enhanced by the inviting ambience of its bungalow setting. Local favourite Eden is a multi-cuisine restaurant serving premium meat, seafood and vegetarian dishes. Delicious Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian staples entice at Maya Dhaba, another much-loved Suva dining institution.</p>


Heaven & High Water: Blessed with gorgeous lagoons and resplendent reefs, Fiji is a paradise for marine adventurers


<p>The 1.4 million tourists who flocked to Hong Kong over the Chinese New Year holiday hopefully went away impressed by their experience. Border crossings from the north peaked at 150,000 visitors per day, a record number since the pandemic. During the Golden Week period last October, the city welcomed 1.22 million people from the mainland, and hotels enjoyed a healthy 90% occupancy rate.</p>



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<p>This revival in arrivals is good news for the Hong Kong economy. As revealed in the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry published in December, the sector accounted for 2.6 per cent of the gross domestic product in 2023, provided 150,000 employment opportunities, and contributed significantly to retail sales and the restaurant trade.</p>


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<p>Amrit Sethi, Director of local travel agency Excella Travel, views the recent surge in visitors as a positive sign for the post-pandemic recovery of the industry. “However, it’s important to consider the implications for infrastructure and service capacity to maintain high-quality visitor experiences. Proactive planning in these areas will be essential,” she stresses.</p>



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<p>Sethi praises the tourism blueprint for presenting a comprehensive vision for Hong Kong’s future in tourism. “As a tour operator, I find it particularly relevant, as it addresses key industry challenges and opportunities. Overall, it reflects a thoughtful approach to enhancing our unique offerings while laying a foundation for future growth.”</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tourism turn-offs</h3>



<p>The report also highlights the challenges limiting Hong Kong’s capacity to receive visitors, which include the size of the city area, and the tight supply of venues for events such as conventions and exhibitions, outdoor performances and sporting competitions. Given this shortfall, better management of existing venue resources will be needed to meet the demand for different scales and types of events.</p>



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<p>Stretched manpower supply, which could impede service quality if not addressed, is another issue spotlighted in the tourism blueprint. Like all industries, local tourism also faces the effects of the global economic slowdown, and the peg to the US dollar could exacerbate this situation and increase the costs of travelling here. Hong Kong is also facing increasingly stiff competition from other tourist centres in the region which have stepped up their offerings and extended the visa period or introduced special visas.</p>



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<p>The blueprint suggests the city cannot compete on price with neighbouring destinations and should focus on high-quality attractions. The post-pandemic shift from traditional shopping tours for mainland visitors to more varied experiences reflects Hong Kong’s need to diversify its offerings to attract high-value tourism.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Coming for quality</h3>



<p>“I agree with the emphasis on quality over quantity,” says Sethi. “Higher-value tourism products contribute significantly to our economy, but it’s essential to ensure they cater to the diverse needs of our visitors. Striking the right balance will enhance overall satisfaction and drive repeat visits.”</p>


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<p>Kevin Lau, Founding Convenor of the Hong Kong Youth Professional Global Advocacy – an organisation connecting local youngsters to the world – similarly supports prioritising quality. “High-value tourism products, such as luxury staycations or curated cultural experiences, enhance visitor satisfaction and revenue per capita,” he says. “However, ‘quality’ must be inclusive, ensuring mid-tier offerings – such as budget-friendly heritage trails – remain accessible. A balanced approach avoids alienating price-sensitive travellers while maintaining premium appeal.”</p>



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<p>To boost cruise tourism, he believes Kai Tak Cruise Terminal “requires upgrading with eco-friendly amenities to attract luxury liners”. Higher-value tourism can also be buttressed by wooing the silver-haired, family, study tour and youth sectors of the industry to Hong Kong and identifying their travel needs, according to the blueprint.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Here on business</h3>



<p>Attracting overnight visitors is also a priority, especially by encouraging more meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions in Hong Kong – the MICE segment of the tourism industry. This correlates with a post-pandemic trend noted in the tourism blueprint: the rise of bleisure travel, whereby business visitors fold in leisure time with their work trips.</p>



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<p>“Increasing overnight stays is vital for maximising economic impact,” says Lau. “MICE tourism thrives on Hong Kong’s business reputation, but we must invest in specialised facilities, such as larger convention centres and tailored services like multilingual guides.”</p>



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<p>Lau outlines the three areas in which he believes Hong Kong’s tourism competitiveness can be bolstered: infrastructure modernisation, such as expanding airport capacity and improving public transport; distinctive cultural branding, including leveraging unique heritage sites like the historic Mong Kok district; and technology integration through AI-driven personalised itineraries and other innovations.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Build and they will come</h3>



<p>Certainly, improved infrastructure facilities related to culture, sports and tourism are considered a cornerstone for Hong Kong’s competitiveness as a tourist destination. Following a series of trials involving thousands of people at Kai Tak Sports Park, the magnificent stadium at the heart of the complex opens this month; it is set to host British band Coldplay next month, followed by other top-notch performers.</p>


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<p>Last month saw the prestigious London International Horse Show canter outside its home base for the first time, landing at AsiaWorld-Expo in Chek Lap Kok. Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, said this high-octane equestrian extravaganza highlighted Hong Kong’s position as a world-class premier tourism destination.</p>



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<p>Other venues have been newly completed or are under construction in a bid to attract international events or create synergy with existing happenings. These include SkyCity at the Hong Kong International Airport, the East Kowloon Cultural Centre; the Lyric Theatre Complex in the West Kowloon Cultural District; themed areas based on the Marvel films at Hong Kong Disneyland; Ma Wan Park Phase Two, and the new Adventure Zone at Ocean Park.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">On the short haul</h3>



<p>The fact that Ocean Park now boasts six giant pandas, the most living in one location outside mainland China, is another novel lure for tourists. Recent coming-out parties for twin cubs born last summer and plans for a panda museum are attractive initiatives to drive visitors to Hong Kong and into the theme park.</p>



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<p>An increased desire for short-haul travel since the pandemic was noted in the tourism report.</p>



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<p>Those popping across the border for the day or weekend may be motivated by baby bears, pop concerts and other mega events, or the latest city hotspots, walks and trends. “Additionally, promoting niche markets – such as medical tourism or eco-tours in the New Territories – could differentiate us from regional rivals like Singapore or Tokyo,” opines Lau.</p>


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<p>He also advocates the protection of natural assets like the Hong Kong Unesco Global Geopark. “Globally, Hong Kong must align with UNWTO’s [United Nations World Tourism Organization] sustainability goals and leverage international partnerships [with Unesco, for example] to showcase its heritage.”</p>



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<p>Cathay Pacific recently urged the government to roll out tailormade one-stop packages to attract transit tourism in Hong Kong, perhaps a timely initiative following the imminent opening of the three-runway system at the airport.</p>



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<p>According to Lau, the tourist ecosystem in Hong Kong requires deeper public-private synergy. “For example, hotels, airlines and attractions should co-develop bundled packages, while the government streamlines visa policies for transit tourists,” he says. A centralised digital platform for real-time data-sharing among stakeholders could optimise resource allocation and crisis management during peak seasons.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Appropriately cultural</h3>



<p>Further integration of the city’s culture, sports and creative industries as laid out in the blueprint is considered critical to sustaining tourism growth. “Cross-promotion – such as pairing the Hong Kong Film Festival with themed walking tours of filming locations – could attract diverse audiences,” says Lau.</p>



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<p>Sports events like the Hong Kong Sevens could easily be paired with cultural festivals to extend visitor stays. “Moreover, creative industries can design immersive experiences [such as AR/VR exhibits] that showcase local art and history,” he notes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Smartening up</h3>



<p>The city is also being encouraged to improve smart tourism, something which will enhance the overall visitor experience and make Hong Kong more accessible, according to Sethi, though she admits challenges on this front remain.</p>


Arrivals Revival: The surge in Hong Kong visitors is welcome news to a tourism industry adapting to woo them


<p>Rio de Janeiro instantly conjures up mental imagery of its spectacular setting, framed by a massive mountain-top statue of Christ and an incredible number of beaches that form a majestic sandy ribbon along the southeast coastline of Brazil. The world-famous Carnival and intoxicating samba beat will also immediately spring to mind in this cultural melting pot blessed with stately architecture and culinary delights.</p>



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<p>Such is the assault on the senses that a trip to the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City) leaves a deep visual impression. A panoply of vibrant hues, shifting shadows and plays on light brings unique sensory experiences every day. Many visitors enjoy themselves the most when they let their inhibitions run wild and go with the joyous flow. The local residents (cariocas) live life to the full, and tourists often become so bewitched by the relaxed, carefree spirit that they are loath to leave.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Carnival capers</h3>



<p>The agreeable climate makes Brazil’s second most populous city a fantastic year-round destination, though December often sees heavy rainfall. Undoubtedly the best time to visit, however, is during the Carnival, which falls this year from February 28 to 8 March, a week when Rio rocks with street parties and non-stop private events.</p>


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<p>Steeped in pagan tradition, Brazil hosts many carnivals leading up to Ash Wednesday (5 March 2025) and the start of Lent, but the celebration in Rio is by far the best known and most lavish. The city teems with visitors from around the globe keen to plunge headlong into the mayhem. Streets are jammed with revellers, fuelled by Brazilian beer and caipirinhas, and dancing and swaying to samba songs from morning to night. Many will be dressed as clowns and television personalities, or barely dressed in skimpy bikinis and feathers; cross-dressing is also common.</p>


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<p>The ball at the Copacabana Palace hotel held on Carnival Saturday (1 March) is the hottest ticket in town. Fierce competition for best costume unleashes outrageous outfits from medieval troubadours to Roman Catholic archbishops.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Samba feats</h3>



<p>The chance to win prizes also drives participants at the main samba school parades held on the Sunday and Monday nights. Giant mechanised carnival floats illustrating the motifs of the school, sequinned-and-spangled dancers and huge percussion sections sashay around the Sambodrome arena to be judged by an officially appointed jury.</p>


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<p>Each parade is a visual extravaganza based around a distinctive central theme that will determine its imagery, costumes and choice of music. An Amazonian theme, for instance, may have elaborately costumed parade members appearing as rain-forest animals. The troupe is generally led by a porta bandeira, a female dancer who holds the school flag, and the mestre sala (dance master), with the bateria (drummers) charged with keeping a constant samba rhythm. Parades also feature agile lead dancers known as passistas who perform dazzling routines.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Beach life</h3>



<p>Rio’s mile-upon-mile of gorgeous beaches is another top draw, with the most famous being the iconic crescent-shaped Copacabana. For many cariocas, the beach has become a way of life, and over the years a whole string of sunbathing sanctuaries along the shores has been developed. Aside from Copacabana, upscale sun- and water-worshippers will flock to Ipanema and Leblon. Offering far more seclusion to the southwest of the city are the white sands of Prainha Beach and Barra da Tijuca, a long, vibrant seaside playground.</p>


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<p>Each of Rio’s beaches has its own style – there are sandy getaways for singles, families and sporty types, as well as those simply seeking a quiet spot in the sun. But it is Copacabana, where the beach culture began, which remains the centre of attraction. Once a quiet fishing village, the tourist district is now home to more than 350,000 people packed into 109 streets with a large concentration of hotels, restaurants and promenade cafés. The Rolling Stones famously gave a free concert on the beach here in 2006 to an audience of devoted fans estimated to number as many as two million.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Seaside stars</h3>



<p>A great place to have a cocktail by the pool and an Italian meal with a Brazilian vibe is Cipriani Restaurant in the Copacabana Palace. The legendary hotel was established in the 1920s and refurbished much more recently in a bid to return the establishment to its glory days. Many international celebrities have enjoyed black-tie evenings at this famous watering hole.</p>


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<p>Framed by the towering Dois Irmãos (Two Brothers) Mountains, Ipanema is an affluent neighbourhood with a stunning beach, fabulous restaurants and trendy boutiques. With a fringe of palm trees adding intimacy, the black-and-white mosaic promenade is the place for the young and beautiful to strut their stuff. Here, and in adjoining Leblon, you will find outstanding shops selling high-end luxury goods, including leather bags, shoes, clothing and gifts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sugar and spice</h3>



<p>Situated on a peninsula jutting into Guanabara Bay is Sugarloaf Mountain, which offers amazing views of Copacabana and much of Rio. A magnificent ride up to the towering summit in bubble-shaped cable cars offering 360-degree views completes the trip – an exhilarating experience captured in thrilling spy-drama style by the 1979 James Bond film Moonraker.</p>



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<p>Another must-visit spectacle on high is the statue of Cristo Redentor (Christ the Redeemer) atop the hulking Corcovado mountain. This 98-foot-high Art Deco statue was sculpted in 1931 by French-Polish artist Paul Landowski and his team; it is visible for miles and watches over the whole city. An incredibly scenic route to Christ’s feet cuts through tropical foliage and affords mesmerising views across Rio and its glorious beaches.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Historic heart</h3>



<p>The historic heart of Rio is located around Praça XV de Novembro, a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings and streets. The Paço Imperial, dating from 1743 and once the palatial home of Brazil’s governors, has been transformed into a cultural centre boasting a theatre, cinema, exhibition spaces and galleries, a library and restaurants. The neighbouring Tiradentes Palace, seat of the Rio de Janeiro state parliament, showcases impressive Belle Epoque-style architecture. The 10-minute stroll from Praça XV up to the Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Candelária, an impressive church originating from 1775 with ornate Italian marble interiors, passes along what is considered the cultural corridor of Rio.</p>


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<p>Just off the square through the Arco do Teles, a heritage-listed colonial arch, is a maze of narrow pedestrianised streets flanked by mid-18th-century buildings and shops with high ceilings. Travessa do Comercio is lined with bars and restaurants, while the adjacent Rua do Ouvidor also hosts fine eateries, including Al Khayam, a Middle Eastern restaurant in a historic townhouse with a wide menu – kousa mahshi (zucchini stuffed with rice and meat) is a highlight. The enjoyment of the occasion is sometimes enhanced with a belly-dancing show.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Nightly feasts</h3>



<p>The broad choice of restaurants in Rio reflects the city’s multicultural charms. Many hotel restaurants serve the Brazilian national dish of feijoada, a stew of black beans and pork. Churrascarias, which specialise in steak and other grilled meats, are popular, especially those where servers bring a seemingly never-ending supply of juicy rodizio-style skewered meat to the table, ready to slice on demand.</p>


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<p>Rio is also dotted with small neighbourhood bars-cum-eateries called botecos – Garota de Ipanema (named after the famous song) is one to savour. Chopp, a fresh and frosty Brazilian draught beer, and caipirinha cocktails of cachaça (spirit distilled from sugarcane), lime and sugar, are popular pours. A walking tour of the densely populated favelas (shantytowns) is bound to be an eye-opener, especially after a late night in a boteco or partying all night with the Carnival crowds.</p>


Rio Revels: Brazil’s year-round beach-bound playground city amps up to the max at Carnival time 


<p>Barcelona is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring cities. This great cauldron of Catalan culture offers something for everyone, from breathtaking monuments to world-class museums, and from Roman ruins and charming Gothic quarters to beautiful beaches. Foodies will delight in the city’s celebrated culinary offerings, and many visitors leave this wonderful enclave on the shores of the Mediterranean craving for more.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">High churches</h3>



<p>The architecture of the Catalan capital and Spain’s second largest city is one of its many draws. Among a slew of masterpieces of the physical form, Sagrada Familia is considered a defining symbol. A tour de force of the imagination, this fascinating, unfinished basilica is not without its controversy, but it never fails to impress, leaving an indelible mark on all those lucky enough to experience its glorious aspect in person.</p>


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<p>Designed in a unique neo-Gothic, Art Nouveau and Catalan Modernist style by the brilliant architect Antoni Gaudi, the building is blessed with intricate details and organic shapes. Following his death in a car crash in 1926, other architects with other influences took on the mantle, and completion by the 100th anniversary of his passing was anticipated. But challenges over the years – most recently the pandemic – mean this aspiration is unobtainable.</p>



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<p>Amazing features include spiral staircases that wind up bell towers like snail shells, a magnificent façade in which up to 100 species of plants and animals are sculpted in stone, and an apse adorned with serpents. Watch a wonder of the world in the making, as a planned 18 spires will one day jut into the sky, up from the present 13. </p>


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<p>Another magnificent image to behold is Barcelona Cathedral, the city’s central place of worship. Erected on the foundations of a Roman temple in the heart of the Old Town, its gorgeous Gothic façade, laced with gargoyles, was added in the 19th century and restored in 2011. The rest of the building was constructed between 1298 and 1460. Marvel at the immense nave with its raised high altar and cloister graced with a fountain, palm trees and roaming geese. Take a lift to the cathedral roof to catch an amazing bird’s-eye view of medieval Barcelona.</p>



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<p>Also within the Old Town, Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar boasts a fabulous Catalan-style Gothic interior. Stained glass windows dating back to the 15th-18th centuries allow light to enter the high aisles and wide nave of the ornate church.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Uplifting art</h3>



<p>The nearby Palau de la Música Catalana is a fine Modernista building from 1908 adorned with an equally impressive stained-glass inverted dome ceiling. Busts of Beethoven and renowned Catalan composer Josep Anselm Clavé face off across the stage of this lavish concert hall. Of more than 500 concerts held each year, few are as uplifting as the stupendous Orfeó Català choir in full voice. Cafè Palau, which benefits from a terrace, offers modern cuisine and occasional free live performances.</p>


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<p>Also located in the Barri Gòtic neighbourhood – a beautifully preserved area of Gothic buildings dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, replete with medieval lanes for meandering – is the Museu Picasso. Housed in five adjoining palaces, the museum charts Pablo Picasso’s artistic career chronologically from his arrival in Barcelona in 1895. It holds one of the world’s largest collections of his early works, including Home amb boina, inked with accomplished brush strokes when he was just a precocious 13-year-old. The artist’s extraordinary neoclassical period is well represented, while masterpieces such as the Seated Man reveal his sublime surreal style. Another painting shows the horse which later appeared in his famous mural, Guernica.</p>



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<p>The bold, abstract works of another acclaimed 20th-century Spanish artist can be found in the modern, airy buildings of the Fundació Joan Miró. The output here, amassed by Barcelona native Miró over 60 prolific years, includes sculptures, drawings and textiles.</p>


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<p>For those keen to view one of the finest collections of Romanesque art, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is a must. It also houses a superb collection of medieval art, as well as works by Catalan artists originating from the 19th century to the modern day. Here you will also find Picasso’s wonderful 1937 ink of his lover Marie-Thérèse Walter, the magnificent Woman with Hat and Fur Collar.</p>



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<p>Aficionados can conclude their inspirational art tour with stops at the Museu d’Art Contemporani and the adjacent Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona, which display works by major Spanish and international artists. The latter, in particular, superbly showcases contemporary culture.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ramble along La Rambla</h3>



<p>A good way to start a day in Barcelona is to soak up the vibes of La Rambla, a central pedestrianised thoroughfare lined with cafés, tapas bars, enticing shops, flower stalls and exhibition spaces. After a morning coffee, pop into the city’s best and most famous food market, the Mercat de la Boqueria, to feast your eyes on row upon row of stalls selling everything from stacks of fruit to aromatic seafood to suckling pigs.</p>


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<p>If you begin your ramble at the Old Port, Barcelona’s grand opera house – the Gran Teatre del Liceu – is located not far along La Rambla. Situated at this site in 1847, it has twice been gutted by fire, only to re-emerge phoenix-like, and is now fully restored. Today, it is famed for its sterling ballet recitals and symphony concerts. Further on, stop by the splendid Baroque palace known as Palau de la Virreina; it often hosts major art exhibitions and other cultural events.</p>


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<p>The pavement of this bustling boulevard is embellished with colourful mosaics, one of which was weaved into beautiful abstract shapes in striking primary colours by the aforementioned Joan Miró. Indeed, many areas of Barcelona are enriched by street art courtesy of world-renowned names. A sip of water from the 19th-century fountain on La Rambla will ensure you fall in love with the city and always return.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Mediterranean treats</h3>



<p>Barcelona has become a hotbed of culinary delights and food-scene creativity. Spawning a slew of world-class chefs – Fernando Adrià to name but one – the city has reinvented aspects of haute cuisine over the years. Classic Catalan cuisine often encapsulates the great produce of the Mediterranean – fish, prawns, cuttlefish, clams, pork, rabbit, game, olive oil, peppers and sprinklings of garlic. Striking pairings often feature, such as seafood with meat or fruit with fowl. For foodies craving cuttlefish and chickpeas, cured ham and caviar, or goose and pear, Barcelona is the place to be.</p>


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<p>Popular with locals, Vivanda presents superb Catalan cooking with year-round garden dining on a tree-shaded terrace. Making use of regional ingredients, the chef’s preparations include the likes of egg with truffles, rice with cuttlefish and artichokes with romesco sauce. Dishes of the month hark back to traditional plates of yesteryear.</p>



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<div class="wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile"><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="683" height="1024" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-683x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85150 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-187x280.jpg 187w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-1365x2048.jpg 1365w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-200x300.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-800x1200.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Torre_Glories_nocturna-scaled.jpg 1707w" sizes="(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure><div class="wp-block-media-text__content">
<p>Situated beside an atmospheric square in Barri Gòtic, Cafè de L’Acadèmia has a beamed ceiling and stone walls, with low lighting enhancing the romantic ambience. Offerings such as salt cod gratinée with artichoke mousse and aubergine terrine with goat’s cheese are made from the freshest ingredients. Can Culletetes, dating back to 1786, is the city’s oldest restaurant and something of an institution. Located in an alley just off La Rambla, it serves succulent dishes infused with traditional Catalan cooking techniques.</p>
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<p>The nightlife is another enticing feature of this city of many faces. There’s a dizzying assortment of bars to suit every taste, and whether low-key, candle-lit drinking holes in the medieval quarter, throbbing Modernista spaces, wine and cava hangouts, or happening clubs, they all keep the vibes on a high. Settle back, perhaps, in one of the plush green banquettes at Dry Martini to sip some of the best cocktails in town. With bars and eateries aplenty dotted along the beach promenade, Barcelona’s seafront is also a great place to relax and take in the Mediterranean night air.</p>


Catalan Cool: A centre of culture and culinary creativity, Barcelona beckons with the old, the new and the simply breathtaking


<p>Athens is known as the cradle of Western civilisation for good reason – full of classical, marble-pillared edifices to the foremost minds of ancient Greece, it is a place of importance and influence that lingers into the modern day. Here, ancient ruins form the magnificent backdrop to teeming markets, cafés and tavernas, a melting pot of cultures in a city that gained fame as a centre of art and literature, commerce and industry, and above all, philosophy and oratory. The ideas originating out of Athens, which spawned great thinkers thousands of years ago, are still discussed, debated and pored over today. Ultimately, this is a city like no other.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Acropolis wow</h3>



<p>The world-famous Acropolis is one of the most iconic monuments in the whole of Greece as well as Europe, and perhaps the wider world. Open all year round, this jewel is quite simply a must-visit for its cultural significance and its broader architectural importance. Despite the wider urban sprawl, the temples on the ‘Sacred Rock’ of Athens still command an imposing presence, especially at night or viewed from the right angle – such as driving east on the so-called Sacred Way, otherwise known as Iera Odos, from Eleusis to Athens. Marvelling at its immense rocky bulk from Plaka – an old quarter clustering at the foot of the Acropolis, which itself is steeped with archaeological sites both large and small – is also awe-inspiring.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-1024x681.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84951" width="768" height="511" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-1024x681.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-768x511.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19-800x532.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_19.jpg 1064w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>The most recognisable of the monumental structures is the Parthenon, whose decorative sculptures are considered by many as the epitome of ancient Greek classical art. Historically, it was presented as a magnificent ‘Temple to the Virgin’ in 438 BC, namely the goddess Athena, who was represented by a giant gold and ivory sculpture. The temple took nine years to complete and over the years has served as a church, a mosque and even an arsenal.</p>



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<p>A portion of the Parthenon frieze, a stretch of sculpted figures that ran around the inner wall, now resides in the British Museum. These are known as the Elgin Marbles in reference to Lord Elgin who had negotiated a permit from sultan of the Ottoman Empire to remove “some blocks of stone with inscriptions and figures” in 1801; the exact terms of this deal remain a source of contention between the governments of Greece and the UK.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ancient wonder</h3>



<p>Sculptures left behind by Elgin are housed in the Acropolis Museum, situated below the Parthenon near the Akropoli metro station. Amazing authentic fragments are mounted at eye level in the museum, while the rest is a plaster cast awaiting a possible future – and campaigned-for – return to their original site. They are all displayed in the order in which they would have graced the Parthenon.</p>


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<p>Containing a slew of treasures found in and around the Acropolis, this glittering all-glass museum offers great insight into the daily life of ancient Athens. The building harnesses natural light for the best presentation of these relics, and its glass floor allows visitors to gaze down at the site of an early Christian settlement. Marvel at the Peplos Kore, an Archaic votive statue retaining exquisite and intricate detail such as traces of paint visible on her eyes, lips and curly hair. Then delight in the form of another Archaic sculpture dating back to 570 BC – a bearded man carrying a calf as a sacrificial offering for Athena.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Theatre under the stars</h3>



<p>Cut into the southern cliff face of the Acropolis is the enduring cultural legacy of the Theatre of Dionysus. Some 17,000 Athenians would amass on its tiered stone steps, entranced by dramatists like Aristophanes, Menander, Sophocles, Aeschylus and Euripides. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus, an immensely tall late addition to the Acropolis, often served as a venue for the enactment of ancient Greek tragedies. It now plays host to modern-day singers, dancers and actors during the glorious moonlit performances of the Athens Epidaurus Festival.</p>


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<p>Below the Acropolis is another amazing heartbeat of the ancient world, the Agora, where the likes of Socrates, Aristotle and Paul the Apostle once held court. This marketplace with its council buildings, law courts and thronging streets formed the political focal point of ancient Athens from 600 BC, and some academics suggest it was where democracy breathed into life. An interesting historical nugget is that speeches made at the Agora were strictly timed using a water clock called a clepsydra.</p>



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<p>The complex also contains the Stoa of Attalos, a world-class museum within a magnificent two-storey structure that was built by King Attalus of Pergamon between 159 and 138 BC, and reconstructed by the American School of Classical Studies at Athens in the 1950s.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sculpted splendour</h3>



<p>Also well worth a visit is the National Archaeological Museum, considered one of the finest museums anywhere and packed full of great works spanning the Neolithic and Bronze Ages right up to the Roman era. Its Bronze collection boasts a breathtaking 460 BC sculpture of either Poseidon or Zeus, while its Hellenistic statuary exhibits the vigorous movement and sensuality characteristic of sculptures in this period.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_06.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84943" width="564" height="375" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_06.jpg 752w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_06-421x280.jpg 421w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_06-200x133.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 564px) 100vw, 564px" /></figure></div>


<p>Some of the works housed in the Museum of Cycladic Art – such as the early Bronze Age female marble statuettes – have inspired the artists of today. Fantastic Greek art from Neolithic times to the modern day can be admired at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, where more than 6,000 objects are displayed over four floors. Meanwhile, the Byzantine and Christian Museum showcases some 25,000 exhibits, offering a unique insight into Greek heritage.</p>



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<p>Located southeast of the Acropolis is ancient Greece’s most colossal temple. The Temple of Olympian Zeus was conceived circa 515 BC by the tyrant Peisistratos, yet political turmoil delayed its completion until AD 131 under Roman Emperor Hadrian. Sixteen magnificent columns survive from the original 104.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Turning back the clock</h3>



<p>At the Roman Agora, which supplanted the Greek Agora as the commercial and administrative centre during Roman rule, a stream ran down from the Acropolis to operate a water clock known as the Tower of the Winds. This superb octagonal tower was masterminded by Syrian astronomer Andronikos Kyrrhestes in about 50 BC.</p>


<div class="wp-block-image">
<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-1024x684.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84948" width="768" height="513" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-419x280.jpg 419w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-768x513.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-200x134.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16-800x534.jpg 800w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_16.jpg 1504w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>Remnants of the outer wall of ancient Athens can be seen at Kerameikos, providing a fascinating insight into life and death in this classical city. Used as a burial ground since the 12th century BC, this sacred place comprises a series of elaborate tombs, temples and roads, and even an ancient brothel.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Shop and graze</h3>



<p>Moving onto modern attractions rooted in history, one of the liveliest and most colourful areas in Athens is Monastiraki. Located against the wondrous backdrop of the Acropolis, its bustling maze of alleys and pedestrianised streets encompass the remains of the aforementioned Greek and Roman agora and are brimming with shops, clubs, bars and taverns. A thriving area day and night, the Monastiraki neighbourhood take its name from the restored church in the centre of its lively square.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_18.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84950" width="410" height="274" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_18.jpg 410w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_18-200x134.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px" /></figure></div>


<p>Perhaps Athens’ most popular shopping thoroughfare is Ermou Street, which starts from the west side of Syntagma Square and leads to Monastiraki. Lined with designer boutiques, coffee shops and department stores, it guides visitors down to a funky flea market where a row of souvenir shops awaits.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Edible art</h3>



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<p>Blessed with a wide range of Mediterranean influences, the culinary delights of Greece exhibit diverse flavours. Athens offers a great range of restaurants serving favourites from moussaka to grilled seafood to souvlaki (chicken, pork or lamb spit-roasted for hours) on a bed of vegetables. Varvakios Agora (Central Market) affords the ideal opportunity to sample some of the local Greek cuisine.</p>
</div><figure class="wp-block-media-text__media"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="500" height="752" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_21.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84953 size-full" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_21.jpg 500w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_21-186x280.jpg 186w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Athens_21-200x301.jpg 200w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure></div>



<p>Spondi is considered one of Athens’ most sophisticated restaurants. Its exquisitely prepared haute cuisine may include signatures like crab with turnip, honey, tarragon and passiflora, and venison in Sarawak pepper crust.</p>


Classical Beauty: Follow in the fascinating footsteps of great Western thinkers on a tour of ancient Athens


<p>The skiing opportunities in Austria are simply breathtaking. Deeply embedded into the culture of this landlocked Alpine nation during the winter months, the pastime is taken super seriously. Most forms of winter sports are available, with alpine and Nordic skiing the most common, while snowboarding, cross-country skiing and sledging are also popular.</p>



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<p>For those attracted to nightlife as well as outdoor leisure, many of the famous ski resorts have also accrued a reputation for their après-ski shenanigans as much as for the skiing itself – none more so, perhaps, than St Anton am Arlberg in the west of the country.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Topping the lot</h3>



<p>The global reputation of the Arlberg ski region emerged in the late 19th century, following the opening of the Arlberg railway tunnel in 1884. Ski-Club Arlberg, the first ski club in the Alps, opened in 1901 and St Anton’s inaugural ski school was established in 1924. The sleepy village was well on the way to becoming an iconic venue for winter sports enthusiasts.</p>


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<figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84011" width="768" height="512" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Winter_Skifahren_Kapall-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Patrick-Batz-83-1-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure></div>


<p>St Anton is now considered the zenith of Austrian alpine skiing, and the country’s renown as a ski paradise came partly on the back of this amazing resort. It is connected by state-of-the-art ski lifts and cable cars to nearby villages to form one huge contiguous ski area. The Arlberg massif region in Vorarlberg boasts a vast ski terrain encompassing 300 kilometres (186 miles) of slopes.</p>



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<p>The sport is certainly challenging here, and there are plenty of off-piste opportunities for those who want to test themselves, with about 200 kilometres of backcountry terrain beckoning thrill-seekers. The adrenaline will certainly be pumping on many of the exhilarating descents, not least the Kandahar run on Galzig. The views are stunning, and the well-maintained slopes provide top-notch exercise for much of the winter.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Ski stars</h3>



<p>Arlberg boasts three top-notch ski resorts: St Anton – St Christoph – Stuben, which are connected by cable car; its over-the-valley neighbour Lech – Oberlech – Zürs; and Warth-Schröcken. St Anton’s epic Run of Fame is a spectacular marathon taking in the entire Ski Arlberg area. As the longest ski circuit in the Alps, covering 85 kilometres and an altitude difference of 18,000 metres (59,055 feet), it takes the best part of a day to complete and traverses three mountain passes – Arlberg, Flexen and Hochtannberg. The route pays homage to the many ski pioneers, athletes and movie stars who have popularised these slopes over the years, leaving their indelible footprints in the snow.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="662" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-1024x662.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84006" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-1024x662.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-433x280.jpg 433w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-768x496.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-1536x993.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-2048x1323.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-200x129.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3366-800x517.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Indeed, Ski Arlberg has so much to offer for all levels of skiers. There are endless signposted runs, ultra-modern cable cars, fantastic powder-snow slopes, and practice areas for young skiers and beginners, as well as a multitude of sports facilities, from fun parks to carving areas to race courses.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Food with a view</h3>



<p>Part of the joy of skiing in Austria are the scrumptious culinary delights served in the local restaurants and huts, and St Anton offers some of the best. Perched at 2,085 metres and billed as one of the highest gourmet restaurants in Europe, Verwallstube is worth a visit for the amazing mountain views alone. In the winter months, it opens daily for lunch, while weekly evening candlelight dinners accompanied by piano music are a special experience. Meticulously arranged dishes infused with uplifting flavours range from bouillabaisse to beautifully tender veal cheeks braised in red wine. Truffle mash adds additional charm to the meal.</p>



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<p>On the edge of St Anton village, Museum Restaurant-Café is another excellent choice with a wonderful ambience. Housed in the St Anton Museum, this charming wood-panelled venue serves Austrian cuisine and offers private dining and vegetarian and vegan options. It has the most succulent Tyrolean beef, lamb or trout on a menu prepared with both creativity and tradition. Try the winter salad with caramelised nuts, pear and smoked goose breast, then treat yourself to the mouth-watering crème brûlée.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="683" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84010" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-420x280.jpg 420w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-768x512.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-200x133.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Web_Shooting_Fruehjahr_2024-©-TVB-St.-Anton-am-Arlberg_Roman-Huber-49-800x533.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The fine international cuisine and excellent wine list at Hazienda, located in the basement of the four-star M3 Hotel, draw in gourmet skiers. Superb pasta dishes and veal are a forte. Classic Austrian restaurant Fuhrmannstube by Buffy is a cosy hideaway, great for tucking into venison stew, traditional dumplings known as knödel, or copious helpings of strudel.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Après adventuring</h3>



<p>St Anton is noted the world over for its après-ski options – think crazy, fun-filled drinking houses brimming with raucous revellers on a high from the day’s excursions on the glorious Alpine slopes. At the legendary MooserWirt, which has been opening its doors to boisterous skiers since 1989, expect loud Austrian music and party-goers dancing on tables, sweating in their salopettes. To the backdrop of non-stop après-ski hits mixed by famous DJs, guzzle down a wide variety of beers to your heart’s content – the venue reportedly gets through a staggering 5,000 litres a day. It’s also a wonderful place to make new friends for the following day’s skiing, but make sure you leave your skis in a safe, easy-to-find spot as you will need them to get back down the slope after your drinking games.</p>



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<p>There are plenty of other notable après-ski hangouts. Sennhütte has a lovely sunlit terrace affording superb mountain views. Tables bounce with skiers swaying with delight to local bands playing country or rock music designed to get the party in full schnapps-happy swing. Just to its north is Heustadl, another hotspot usually bursting at the seams. Located near the end of run no. 50, it offers live music to 6 pm.</p>



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<p>Billed as St Anton’s oldest après-ski haunt, Krazy Kanguruh – owned by Austrian skiing legend Mario Matt – is a lively slopeside bar with a great terrace overlooking the village. It is usually loud, fun and jam-packed from 5 pm to closing around 8 pm. Enjoy the moment as you swig intoxicating tequila and consume quality nosh before getting back on your skis to slide gracefully down to the valley.</p>



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Other runs around</h3>



<p>The villages of Lech and Zürs are linked to St Anton over the mountains but are still relatively isolated. With distance comes exclusivity, and Zürs, in particular, has garnered a reputation as one of the most renowned winter sports resorts in the Alps, beloved by the well-heeled and international glitterati.</p>



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<p>Austria has many splendid ski areas aside from Ski Arlberg. The season at Ischgl in Tyrol normally runs until early May since it sits at 2,872 metres above sea level and offers 239 kilometres of pistes, with some as long as 11km. It provides skiing for all levels, and the more accomplished aficionados will be attracted by its daunting slopes of 70% gradient or steeper.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84009" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-498x280.jpg 498w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-768x432.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-200x113.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Rodeln_Nassereinbahn©-Arlberger-Bergbahnen-AG_Patrick-Batz-800x450.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Silvretta Arena ski resort comprises Ischgl and the Swiss village of Samnaun in the Grisons, which has the added advantage of being a duty-free zone. The Smuggler’s Trail, straggling the Austria-Switzerland border, allows skiers and snowboarders to explore old smuggling routes. The season here starts on 30 November 2024 when English singer-songwriter Ellie Goulding performs at the Top of the Mountain Opening Concert at Silvretta car park against the unforgettable backdrop of the Tyrolean mountains. Another bonus is the foodie’s paradise of Ischgl’s many restaurants.</p>



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<p>Schladming-Dachstein in Styria has some of Austria’s most impressive mountains for skiing and a 230km-expanse of slopes. A high altitude ensures reliable snow coverage at SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental in Tyrol, which has had the distinction of being voted the best ski resort in the world on several occasions. Blessed with wide pistes and panoramic views, Tyrol’s Zillertal Arena has the claim to fame for hosting one of the country’s longest descents. It also offers plentiful après-ski entertainment.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1024" height="808" src="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-1024x808.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-84007" srcset="https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-1024x808.jpg 1024w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-355x280.jpg 355w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-768x606.jpg 768w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-1536x1212.jpg 1536w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-2048x1616.jpg 2048w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-200x158.jpg 200w, https://www.gafencushop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DSC_3372-800x631.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Meanwhile, having Austria’s only ski area with three peaks topping 3,000 metres as well as two glaciers, the popular resort of Sölden in Tyrol is guaranteed to produce wow moments.</p>


Alpine Attitude: In winter, Austria’s Arlberg hills are alive with the sound of skiers – and après party animals


<p>Madrid has been described as the sunniest, liveliest and highest capital in Europe. It has rightly garnered a fine reputation for the magnificence of its cultural offerings. There is an incredible array of activities and sightseeing opportunities in this Spanish city full of passion and many layers of history. Arrivals are warmly welcomed and those on short stopovers will need to be selective in order to make the most of what is sure to be a memorable visit.</p>



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<p>Madrid is a marvellous destination to visit all-year round, but in October, the vibrant cosmopolitan melting pot offers beautiful clear days and eye-catching autumnal colours in the majestic parks. There are also many festivals and events to enjoy during this season. Naturally, a major capital such as Madrid is blessed with a slew of luxury hotels, as well as great historic hostelries with wonderful neoclassical facades, and even transformed century-old palaces with all the modern comforts.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Museum mile</h3>



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<p>Madrid is teeming with museums and galleries and is considered one of the world’s premier art venues. It boasts a magnificent golden mile of art, the Paseo del Prado, a boulevard lined with important art galleries. In fact, outstanding galleries are dotted throughout the city, allowing visitors to soak up world-class art culture.</p>
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<p>One of the most famous is Museo Nacional del Prado, housed in Juan de Vilanueva’s imposing neoclassical building, an architectural masterpiece in its own right. There are many notable works here, including inks by Spanish masters, most notably Goya. Great pieces from Rubens, Rembrandt, Botticelli, Bosch and many others grace the splendid walls.</p>



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<p>Goya’s paintings can also be admired on the ceiling of Ermita de San Antonio de la Florida, once a humble hermitage, now a chapel with a resplendent series of frescoes completed under royal orders in 1798. The artist is actually buried here, in front of the altar. More from the great Spanish romantic painter can be seen in Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando, a prestigious art school.</p>



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<p>Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofia displays some of Europe’s finest 20th-century art, and is particularly noted as the home of Picasso’s sensory masterpiece Guernica. Works by Salvador Dali and Joan Miró also act as a magnet for art enthusiasts. An added bonus is that the museum’s glass lifts offer panoramic views of one of Europe’s finest cities.</p>



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<p>Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza hangs the works of scores of leading European painters from the 14th century onwards, all nestled within a gorgeous salmon-pink interior colour scheme. Museo Cerralbo contains an astonishingly diverse collection of works and artifacts – paintings, porcelain, sculptures, tapestries, glassware and more – housed within a beautiful palace that offers a glimpse into the life of Spanish aristocracy more than a century ago.</p>



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<p>The Essential Paseo del Arte app is designed to help you discover 24 great masterpieces in these museums in an easy and accessible way. It offers a complete tour of the History of Western Art in the heart of Madrid.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">From palace to plaza</h3>



<p>An elegant and visually uplifting city, Madrid showcases many centuries of architectural grandeur. The changing of the guard at Palacio Real on the first Wednesday of the month (except August and September) is an amazing spectacle and is performed with musical tunes like El Almirante, Doña Francisquita, and España Cañí bellowing out. To put it in historical context, this awe-inspiring spectacle, choreographed to perfection, remains exactly how it was performed in the times of King Alfonso XII and King Alfonso XIII. The uniforms are the same, and a total of 400 people and 100 horses stage this majestic display.</p>



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<p>This stunning 18th-century baroque palace of more than 3,400 rooms was built by Felipe V with the intention of dwarfing those of his European counterparts. Great views of this sumptuous royal residence can be obtained through the trees of the northern end of Plaza de Oriente, as well as from the western side, via the ornamental gardens of Campo del Moro.</p>



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<p>The district known as Old Madrid has a plethora of must-visit squares. Lined with cafes and traditional restaurants and with an equestrian statue of Felipe II at its centre, Plaza Mayor is steeped in history. Sit and soak up the intoxicating buzz, scale and detail of this majestic heartbeat of Madrid with its slate spires and deep-ochre façades offset by intricate frescoes and fantastic wrought-iron balconies. A vibrant locale to start a night out in Madrid, Plaza de Santa Ana is a centrally located pedestrianised square dotted with monuments and historical importance.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Tapas temperament</h3>



<p>One of Europe’s culinary capitals, Madrid has no shortage of great places for foodies to indulge their cravings. Food from all regions of Spain can be sampled here, and eating is considered one of life’s great pleasures. The idea of going out to eat tapas – which can mean eating almost anything – is deeply ingrained in the culture. Madrid’s oldest and perhaps most beautiful market, Mercado de San Miguel, is the perfect place to sample all forms of tapas (from chocolate to caviar) at tables within its stunning 20th-century glass walls.</p>



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<p>Local specialities include sopa de ajo (garlic soup) and the hearty stew of cocido madrileña, a kind of noodle broth combining carrots, chickpeas, chicken, blood sausage, beef, lard and perhaps other sausage meat. Roasted meat like cordero lechal asado – spring lamb cooked in a wood-fired oven – and, of course, the country’s famed jamón (cured ham), are also commonly served.</p>



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<p>Madrid boasts one of the largest fish markets in the world. Boiled octopus, all manner of shellfish, anchovies, cod and more are favourites, perhaps consumed as a seafood-laden rice dish, something which has been turned into a local art form.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Taverna time</h3>



<p>Visiting one of the 100 or so remaining traditional tabernas (taverns) is a must. Each is considered unique, though they share some common distinguishing features – a large clock standing guard over a carved wooden bar that often holds wine flasks cooled by running water, an interior lined with ceramic, and marble table tops. Restaurante Botín, founded in 1725, is thought to be the world’s oldest continuously functioning restaurant. Featuring in books by Hemingway, Forsythe and others, this taberna has excellent roasted meats to enjoy at tables in a vaulted cellar, conjuring up a wonderful ambience. A small, convivial bar of many decades standing, Casa Revuelta serves excellent boneless fried cod.</p>



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<p>La Venecia is an old-style bar where Sherry is poured straight from the barrel. A great place to soak up the essence of Madrid, it is just a short walk from Plaza de Santa Ana and simply drips with Spanish history. Spanish-style hot chocolate – thick, dark and strong – has been served at Chocolateria San Ginés since 1894, along with churros (fried dough) for dunking.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Living culture</h3>



<p>From a culinary night out to a cultural feast, Teatro Circo Price is the home of avant-garde theatrical performances, while Corral de la Moreria offers the chance to watch superb flamenco dancing and dine on innovative Spanish fare. Café Central draws admirers of jazz. La Noche Boca Arriba, a popular nightclub, proffers great food and great music.</p>


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<p>For those who like to shop before sipping Sangria or a Sherry cocktail, designer boutiques can be found in the upmarket Salamanca district, an elegant location hailed as a fashionista’s dream come true.</p>



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<p>On 12 October, Spanish National Day, the city will be abuzz with military parades, cultural performances, sporting events, street parties and communal meals. November heralds the Festival de Otoño, a joyous celebration of drama, ballet and opera; the 42nd Madrid Autumn Festival, presenting an outstanding international programme of arts; and the JazzMadrid24, featuring some of the great artists of the genre. Other festivals this autumn include Suma Flamenca, which showcases flamenco in all its enticingly splendid forms.</p>


Unreal Madrid: Stupendous art and architecture, amazing culture and incredible food all score highly in the Spanish capital 


<p>The high-rise, open-all-hours city of Seoul has many faces, from the rice-beer bars and markets to the palaces, temples, royal tombs, ancestral shrines and cultural attractions that act as magnets for tourists. For five centuries it was a dynastic seat of power, and this amazing blend of ancient history and modern-day joie-de-vivre infuses a tantalising vitality into everyday life that leaves visitors enthralled.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>A huge urban conglomeration of almost 10 million people, the South Korean capital sits about halfway down the Korean peninsula. Of course, recent history has seen Korea become a centre of geopolitical power play, and some 50 kilometres to the north is the four-kilometre-wide Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), pulling in tourists curious to witness how the country has been carved into two.&nbsp;</p>



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<p>Autumn is the best season to visit as rainfall is minimal and temperatures bearably mild. This is when the slopes of the four main surrounding mountains – Bugaksan, Inwangsan, Naksan and Namsan – take on delightful hues as leaves turn into beautiful arrays of red, yellow and orange. Another good time to visit is spring; the flowers are in bloom and cherry blossom washes a pinkish white over the city. Both seasons play host to some amazing cultural and arts festivals that accompany the joys of nature.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Palaces galore</h3>



<p>A small settlement called Hanyang at the dawn of the Joseon dynasty in 1392, Seoul was soon renamed and bounded by protective fortress walls. The city is now blessed with five palaces, the largest of which, Gyeongbokgung, was built by King Taejo in 1395 against a splendid mountain backdrop as home for the new ruling family. It has been restored twice, following destruction during the Japanese invasions of 1592 and more recently that country’s occupation from 1910-1945. On another momentous date in Korean history, Japanese assassins broke into the palace in the early hours of 8 October 1895 and murdered Empress Myeongseong.&nbsp;</p>


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<p>The scholars, eunuchs, concubines, soldiers and servants who once roamed this majestic compound have been replaced by hordes witnessing the changing of the guard and browsing two fantastic museums that bring Korea’s rich and often turbulent narrative to life. Royal artefacts in the National Palace Museum highlight the artistic pedigree of the Joseon era – royal seals, gold-embroidered traditional clothing and illustrations of court ceremonies. The National Folk Museum has three main exhibition halls replete with memorable attractions.</p>


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<p>Perhaps the most enchanting of Seoul’s palaces is Changdeokgung, built in the early 15th century as a secondary royal residence to Gyeongbokgung and now a Unesco World Heritage Site. Many royal family members lived here into the 20th century, enamoured by its aura of beauty and grace. The must-see Huwon secret garden beguiles with charming vistas of pavilions on the edge of a square lily pond. &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent markets</h3>



<p>Following a palace tour, stop for some retail therapy at one of the city’s great markets. The hugely atmospheric Gwangjang Market is a mesmerising panoply of silk, satin and linen wholesalers congregated in a hive of alleyways during the day, joined by food stalls and vendors who stay active well into the night. Considered the merriest place to go for dinner and drinks, it is a veritable foodie’s paradise. Popular offerings include stewed pig’s trotters and snouts, gimbap (vegetables and ham wrapped in rice and rolled in sheets of seaweed) and bindaetteok (crispy pancakes of crushed mung beans and veggies fried on a skillet). Why not wash the delicacies down with the local liquors of makgeolli and soju?</p>


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<p>If seafood is your preferred choice, then Noryangjin Fish Market is the place to go with its mind-boggling variety of fresh catches. Early mornings host noisy fish auctions, while the evening is particularly picturesque and a good time to wander among the acres of shellfish, spider crabs, sea worms and other salty fare.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Night vibes</h3>



<p>Seoul is teeming with places to eat, drink and enjoy nightlife. Fine dining is showcased at Dooreyo, celebrity chef Tony Yoo’s restaurant nestled in the heart of Bukchon Hanok Village – a tourist draw of restored traditional Korean houses. Hot soups are a favourite in Korea, and high-end O’neul in Dongbinggo-dong has a wonderful rendition of yukgaejang (spicy beef soup) simmered for 12 hours. Ssuk tteok, a rice-cake hybrid tinged green with mugwort, also entices at this restaurant that champions Korean culinary traditions and techniques.</p>


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<p>Teeming with some of the capital’s best bars, clubs and restaurants, Itaewon has become a trendy night-time area and attracts many from the LGBT community. Another buzzing district, Hongdae, is saturated with nightlife hotspots, while Samcheongdong, the historic neighbourhood east of Gyeongbokgung Palace’s Gwanghwamun Gate, entices with relaxed joints for wining and dining. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cultural enrichment</h3>



<p>While famed for its glitzy K-pop stars and karaoke bars, the city has much more to offer in terms of culture, with a high concentration of museums, art institutions and galleries. You can soak up Seoul’s past and vibrant present in Samcheongdong, where art events abound during the autumn month. Art Sonje Center presents a major exhibition by Do Ho Suh, one of the most important figures in Korean contemporary art, until 3 November. The Seoul branch of the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has an extensive collection of modern Korean and international artworks, and hosts the prestigious Korea Artist Prize annual exhibition.</p>



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<p>The Frieze Seoul art fair takes place in the upscale Gangnam district, south of the Han River, from 4-7 September, providing exposure for local and international artists. Some galleries have seized the chance to stage their debut exhibitions in South Korea alongside Frieze. For instance, until 12 October, Gagosian presents new paintings by Derrick Adams at the APMA Cabinet, which is located in the headquarters of the country’s cosmetics giant, Amorepacific.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">City oasis</h3>



<p>An attraction of a different sort, Cheonggyecheon is a long-buried stream uncovered when a raised highway was demolished. Stretching almost 11 kilometres, it has transformed the city centre, creating a riverside park that offers a calm respite from the commercial hubbub and a walking course whose banks are popular with joggers. Peruse the public art dotted along the way or pay a visit to the museum which tells its history.&nbsp; A spectacular two-week Lantern Festival is held in November, when thousands of glowing paper-and-paint sculptures float in the water, illuminating downtown Seoul in sparkling lights.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spectacular hiking&nbsp;</h3>



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<p>There is plenty of hiking available in the city and its mountains. The Seoul City Wall trail, snaking more than 18 kilometres along the major peaks, offers a wonderful opportunity to admire myriad architectural styles from the ancient Three Kingdoms period to modern restoration work. One option is to start your circuit of the City Wall by hiking up the tallest of Seoul’s four guardian mountains, the conical-shaped Bugaksan (North Peak Mountain). This is considered a most spectacular section of the City Wall trail, running for about 2.5km and rising steeply from Changuimun, one of the ‘four small gates’ in the City Wall. Another beautiful trail is Naksan, which is the lowest of the four guardian mountains and is blessed with the arty neighbourhood of Thwa-dong on its slopes.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Great views</h3>



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<p>For some of the best views of the city, the section of the City Wall at Inwangsan takes some beating. The hike involves climbing past some incredible weirdly shaped rocks and giant boulders, but the trek is worth it for the most amazing views of Seoul, offering a complete panorama of this spectacular city. Several of the majestic palaces are clearly visible as well as much of the glorious Seoul City Wall, especially the sections where it meanders its course along Bugaksan, Naksan and Namsan. Hikers at this wonderful viewing point can clearly discern how the guardian mountains formed a protective shield for the old city nestled inside.</p>


Tag: travel