Glacier Express

It will take you around eight hours to get from Zermatt to St. Moritz on the Glacier Express. Many call it the slowest “express” in the world due to the timing, although it really makes a few stops along the way. However, you would hardly endorse more high-speed travelling while paying for a trip more than 100 euros. The main charm of the route lies in the possibility to admire the splendor of the surrounding mountain scenery as the train route is traced in such a way as to show the best of the.

On their way cabins with large panoramic windows and almost transparent roof overcome nearly three hundred bridges, and nearly one hundred tunnels. For those who want to save a little time and money, it is possible to buy tickets for individual segments of the path, and then move to other types of transports on the half way. By the way, even the ordinary trains, which go from Visp to Zermatt, may be called panoramic, while the price of the trip in this train is incomparably lower. So the choice between options seems to be an article of overall decision.

Harzer Schmalspurbahnen
Harzer Schmalspurbahnen is a network of narrow gauge railways in the Harz Mountains of central Germany. Perhaps, only here you can see a mixture of different types of rolling stocks. First, on the narrow gauge railway still exploit the locomotives produced in the first half of last century.

In the heart of the largest city in the region, Nordhausen, you can see trams with a hybrid diesel engine, since the road is not electrified. In addition, you can come across quite exotic rail buses, imported here in the late 90-ies of the last century. The longest route with the length of 60 km connects Nordhausen and Wernigerode (where, by the way, “The Very Munchausen” was filmed), passes through the scenic trail, makes it possible to admire the stunning mountain scenery.

But it will be better to transfer to another branch at the station Bahnhof Drei Annen Hohne and go to the famous Mount Brocken. As the local residents believe, it is here that annually, on the night of April 30 to May 1 the Sabbath of witches and other evil spirits takes place. But even if we do not take into account the sorcery history of the mountain to climb on it is at least worth with its unique microclimate. Despite the low height, only 1,141 meters, natural phenomena are observed. For example, a curious optical effect, when on a foggy day around a man suddenly appears iridescent halo. Moreover, the camera easily captures this “miracle” and then you can bring this to friends to prove your “holiness”!

Eurostar
It is quite possible that those, who like fast driving and do not suffer from claustrophobia, will enjoy travelling at a speed of 300 km/h through the tunnel under the Channel connecting England and France. People have not yet invented a quicker way to get land from London to Paris or Brussels. In just two hours and a minimum of 59 pounds the train will help its passengers to get to major cities in Belgium and France. This is not something that offers you a panoramic views but instead this is something rather interesting if you’re not scared of getting into the dark. Well the thing that comes to mind is that while being in a tunnel you might make a wish which will come true in case you close your eyes until the end of the trip. Worth a try?

The Orient Express
There are many legends and stories about this train, initially shuttled between Istanbul and Paris. Of course, the most famous work is the book by Agatha Christie “Murder on the Orient Express”. And precisely due to the film, based on a detective, the unique train has survived, and now became a worldwide known brand, a logo of which can be found throughout Europe. It was in 1977 after the movie was shown in the theaters that the popularity of the trains had already disbanded  and his two surviving cars were bought in Monte Carlo at British entrepreneur Sotheby’s auction. He sought throughout the world and restored 35 more cars, and in 1982 launched the first train from London to Venice.

Here schooled waiters in costumes will serve breakfast to travelers directly into the compartment, and in the dining car you can taste the haute cuisine. Finishing in style of Art Deco has luxury fragrance, and honorable people go for a dinner in evening dresses here. A trip on the train is not cheap: prices start from $1000 per person for a short trip, but often the cost of travel does not fall below $2000.

The West Highland Railway
The already well-known British Railway, on which up to now go locomotives became even more famous after the film shots about Harry Potter. In fact, the train does not even go from the train station in London, and connects the largest city in Scotland, Glasgow with communities of Fort William and Malleyg. Travelers can admire the picturesque hills of Scotland, and in addition, the road passes by the very large viaduct of the XIX century called Grenfinnan. This year’s travel publication of Wanderlust has named the West Highland Railway the best historical road in the world.

There is no scientific method for measuring friendliness of the locals, as you can rely only on your subjective impressions and are mainly results of public surveys. Nevertheless, there are countries that are considered to be the most hospitable in the world due to specific characteristics. Thus, the most of hospitable people in the world are:

5. Georgians
According to the results of different ratings and surveys, Georgians are in the fifth place. According to Western travelers, this Caucasian country is worth of attention not only because of the stunning natural beauty of western motifs, unspoiled mountain springs and mineral waters, ancient churches, but also with cheerful and friendly locals who believe that the God is who sends guests. It is not surprising that every visitor feels like a real member  in a Georgian house. While enjoying your position, you might be careful not to offend gracious hosts. For example, one of the biggest insults in Georgia is when you refuse to drink the wine offered. However, the recent actions of Georgian politicians slightly spoiled the image of Georgian hospitality, but well the politics is not a game of sample locals.

4. Iranians
Iran thinks that its most precious thing is its people. Lonely Planet calls these people “warm” and “interesting”, while the famous journalist Will Hyde that cooperates with Times, returning from a trip to Iran, wrote that the residents of this state are the most friendly people on the planet.  This is something new to know as the comment was made by a public opinion influencing person. As to the data always smiling Iranians are sincere and simple. They are always ready to help travelers by offering them a cup of tea, paying for their lunch or inviting them for dinner, and even inviting to participate in the festivities: if you never visited  Iran, then you cannot even assume, how hot local dancing can be!

3. Canadians
According to a study conducted by Nation Brand Index in 2008, which was held among 20 thousand adult citizens of 20 countries, Canada was chosen by the  respondents to be the friendliest country from the 50 states offered in the survey. This scientific approach to selecting the most hospitable nation may seem a bit formal and not trust-worthy, but, in fact, Canadians deserve such a title. Lonely Planet was even surprised at how people living in a harsh northern climate, can be so pleasant and sociable as most of the time the conditioning goes the opposite way. After all, existing in cold countries is much more difficult, and therefore friendly, despite the cold, citizens of the maple leaf, of course, deserve this award.

2. Australians
A friendly “no worries” and a big smile are guaranteed to everyone who will be in Australia for even a short stay. Australians are very open and friendly people, and their positive thinking, combined with the friendliness allows any traveler that happened to be in that remote country, to feel as at home. As the tourists who have been to Australia mention, it is impossible for anyone to feel lonely, traveling across the Green continent: the locals are always ready to share with you a pint of beer or a cup of latte. This means that the travelling around this smallest continent will never get boring and after all you’ll have a lot of impressions to share with everybody.

1. The Irish
In the publication of the Bluelist 2008 Lonely Planet have recognized the Irish as the most friendly nation in the world. It makes little sense to discuss if the Irish are more or less welcoming than Canadians or Iranians are Irish are just different. The truth is that the citizens of the country of St. Patrick are really very nice and kind. Despite the fact that Irish are mistakenly described as those who always complain about the weather, the economic difficulties and high prices , they remain good-natured and honest people, always ready to help any tourist. And therefore, despite the inhospitable climate the pleasant nature of the inhabitants of Ireland makes this country one of the best places to travel.

However, perhaps our readers will not agree with this ranking. Everybody has his/her own list of most hospitable countries. We will be interested to hear what nationalities deserve the title of the friendliest, in your opinion.

1. Don’t Play Pachinko
Despite the fact that gambling is not much welcomed in Japan, yakuza, of course, found a way to bypass restrictions and came up with “Japanese pinball”. They play it on  heavy metal balls, which formally can not be exchanged for money. But prizes are given out for these balls, which you can then sell in special shops around the corner, which, of course, has no relation to the gambling establishment. There is nothing dangerous to go play pachinko, but do not expect that the local casinos will even remotely resemble the huge halls of Las Vegas.

Places to play Japanese pinball are rather similar to the gambling houses recently-existing near the subway stations: stuffy, noisy, dark and smoky. You probably can’t affect the course of the game as well. After throwing, the ball is flying uncontrollably through the maze inside the machine until it stops.

If you really want to be surrounded by multiple screams and intrusive noise, it’s better go to karaoke. Karaoke bars, by the way, also have nothing to do with the ones you can find in other countries. The whole space is divided into separate cubicles, so all those present at the institution do not necessarily listen to how you bother the ears of your friends. All is quiet, peaceful and private. Sometimes drinks are also included in the cost of entrance ticket.

2. Don’t Climb Mount Fuji in “Hot Season”
During the official climbing season, which is in August, you will not only have to stand in long lines to be able to move to the top of the mount, but also to admire the pictures, filled with people of different nationalities, behind whom the mountains are not even visible.
It is better to choose a more quiet time:  like September or October, when there is still little snow and you can climb safely without long waiting lines. Later, in November or December, you may not simply be allowed to the slope until you are sure about your “mountaineering “skills or you are a professional mountain-climber. April-May is not suitable because of the rains. If you are an adventure fan of travel and have strong health, then you should try Fuji Mountain Race.

3. Don’t Drink in Park Hyatt Hotel
The bar, located on the top of the hotel, which became world famous through the film “Lost in Translation”, is worth to visit  if you are a fan of Scarlett Johansson and Bill Murray. Everyone else won’t be eager to pay 40-50 dollars for just a small plate of cheese and fruit.
It is better to look for a less glorious place, because you can admire the city views from many  other points. The first thing that comes to mind is a gallery and coffee shop on the roof of the shopping center Roppongi Hills.

4. Don’t Dress up as a Geisha
There are quite a lot of places that offer to dress you up as a real geisha. In some places for 100-300 dollars your face will be painted with white paint,  your hair  will be done just like geisha do and  your body will be wrapped in a silk kimono. Besides, you will be given several photos that will be possible to show your friends on arrival. Alas, no matter how hard makeup artist try, they cannot do anything with your European appearance, and you will still look extremely ridiculous in the traditional Japanese garb.
It is better to go and see the only Western woman who could become a real geisha.

5. Do not travel the country to see the best cherry blossom
Even if you happen to be in Japan in April, when the trees hid pinkish-white hazy blanket, do not immediately go on a trip to the country in pursuit of a better place, where you can picnic and enjoy the quiet of cherry blossoms. Many do so, starting their journey from the south of Okinawa in March and ending in Hokkaido in early May. In fact, the cherry blossoms are the same everywhere, and spending much time on such a trip is not worth it and its just a loss of time.

It is better to go to the nearest to your hotel park, spread out the mat, open the bottle of Asahi and enjoy the slowly falling to the ground petals. Certainly, there are more beautiful trees in Japan, the petals of which are more pink and bigger. But the essence of the holiday is in quiet contemplation, but not in the bustle and comparison.

1. London, Great Britain
Many well-known authors either were born in the capital of the Great Britain, or have lived here the most part of a life, and, certainly, have described this city in their works. So, Charles Dickens’s admirers can visit his house which has become a museum, fans of detective histories of sir Arthur Conan Doyle will try to find five-six places where great detective Sherlok Holmes conducted investigation, and by all means will visit his “residence” on Baker Street 221b. There will be everything for all of them who are interested in art of Jeffrey Choser, John Keats, Herbert Wells.

2. Stratford-Upon-Avon, Great Britain
There will hardly be a person in the world who never heard about William Shakespeare. And consequently every year Stratford-Upon-Avon – city where the well-known writer was born – is visited by about 3 million people. Here you can see the museum of the English genius, theater and many other sightseeings connected with a name of the well-known playwright.

3. Edinburgh, Scotland
A lot of world literature classics have lived and wrote in this city: sir Arthur Conan Doyle, sir Walter Scott, Robert Louis Stevenson. Today Edinburgh had a new literary symbol – Joanne Rowling, the author of the well-known story about Harry Potter. If you wish to learn about all writers and the poets ever been in this place, simply visit the Museum of writers. By the way, Edinburgh was the first to be recognized “as a city of the literature” by UNESCO.

4. Dublin, Ireland
Many new ideas and innovative products were born in this country and especially in its capital. For example the “Dublins” or “Ulis” of James Joyce. In XX century Samuel Beckett has created here the concept of absurdity drama. And if you ever come to be on the far northern island, by all means visit not only the museum of writers and National library of Ireland, but also take a glance to the literary pub Crawl.

5. New York, USA
It would be surprising, if no writer has settled in “the Big Apple”. Such authors of bats-generations, as Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg have lived here for some time. The city became the arena of one of literary revolutions of XX century – the so-called “Harlem Renaissance”, which has given such popular afroamerican authors, as Zora Neale Hurston or Langston Hughes.

6. Concord, Massachusetts, USA
Though Concord is only a small town with 20 thousand inhabitants, it has played the important role in the history of the American literature. In the beginning of XIX century there lived the most popular authors of that time Ralph Waldo Emerson and Gotorn, and in 1817 the American philosopher and writer David Toro was born here.

7. Paris, France
Paris has been the center of the French and European culture for a long time. Writers, artists, musicians from all world longed for getting to this city . And that`s why many writers remember it`s streets , starting from the giants of the French literature, such, as Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Alexander Duma and Onore de Balzac, and finishing with newcomers from far America which ran to Paris to find sexual, religious or personal freedom among which were Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway and Francis Scott Fitzgerald.

8. San Francisco, California, USA
As well as New York, this city is also connected first of all with bats-generations. After, Ginsberg and Kerouac have left “the Big Apple” for the various reasons, they have settled here and have brought not only a unique literary style, but also fans from all over the state. ”Beatnik`s”admirers necessarily should visit cafe “Vesuvius” – Jack Kerouac’s favourite place. The author of “Tropic of Cancer” Henry Miller also passed some time in vicinities of San Francisco.

9. Rome, Italy
Ancient Rome is the birthplace of many antique writers and the philosophers who have affected all European art. In this city the author of “Eneida” of Virgilio created for some time. Later on, inspired by ancient beauty of ancient city, Percy Shelley with his wife Mary Shelley, Keats and Henry James have lodged in Rome.

10. St.-Petersburg, Russia
Petersburg was always the important city for the Russian literature. Alexander Pushkin and Lev Tolstoy, Anton Chekhov and Fyodor Dostoevsky, Nikolai Gumilev and Anna Akhmatova were passing by the streets of the second Russian capital in XIX-XX centuries. Among the most visited literary museums are Pushkin’s last haven on Moyka and Dostoevsky’s apartment on the Kuznechny lane.

Foreign tourists are once again banned to visit Tibet. Chinese authorities restricted the issuance of permits to visit the region until October 8. However, they are not going to deport from Tibet those foreign tourists who are already there. Such rigor was introduced to provide security before and during the celebration of 60 years of communist rule in China, to be held on October 1.

For the sake of quiet celebration other rules were introduced , such as in Beijing, it is forbidden to release the pigeons and fly kites, as well as many shops of the country have suspended the sale of knives.

Recall that it is not the first time that entry of foreigners to Tibet is limited. Last time tourists were stopped to the region, which is still struggling for its independence, in February 2009, shortly before the celebration of the Tibetan New Year and the 50th anniversary of the uprising against the Chinese authorities. The Chinese government explained such actions with the concern about the safety of foreigners. By the way, the ban lasted for entire 2 months.

Meanwhile, foreign tourists are not safe to stay in Tibet, but in the Chinese capital. On Saturday, September 19, in the area called Tyanyanmen in Beijing, an unknown assailant attacked a French tourist and twice struck her with a knife. Frenchwoman was taken to hospital. The victim received minor injuries. The assailant was defused by police officers. Investigation is underway.

Before the holiday extra precautions, mobilized by the special police units, have been put in Beijing but even these security measures do not save the tourists from blows with a knife. Thursday, 17 September, in the same area, another unknown stabbed to death two policemen and wounded 14 people. They failed to find out the motives of the attacker.

1. Do not tilt the chair back too sharply, especially if flight attendants have just handed out food and drinks.

2. You need to eat accurately, without making extra sounds, so as not to attract the attention of a neighbor.

3. Especially it is not recommended to take off shoes and socks. Not everybody is accustomed to their delicate flavor.

4. By the way, about the smell – emit gases is admitted in the toilet. Too many people find the process and the sounds accompanying it, an insult, and not a pretext to start a pleasant conversation.

5. Regarding the conversation – you should not talk loudly with friends, sitting in different parts of the cabin. Go to each one. Such attention will certainly be appreciated more by everyone rather than if you call.

6. During the flight do not try to discuss with a neighbor sleeping or listening to music even if you want to talk about such an interesting subject like UFOs. There is a possibility that, he will decide that this is an apocalypse, and will suddenly open the emergency door?

7. While listening to music, do not do it too loud, sing, whistle, and stamping to the beat. In the lounge there may be real aggressive and adherents of other genres of music.

8. If you want to sleep, make sure that you will not wake up on the shoulder of your neighbor. Who knows how your neighbor will understand the situation.

9. If the neighbor is sleeping, but you need to go to the toilet, then you should try to be cautious, not to stepp on someone else’s feet.

10. By the way, if you know that you will have to run around the end of the passenger compartment very often, then it is better to ask to shift with places, in advance.

11. You should stretch in a chair carefully not to disturb the neighbors in the back and front.

12. It is unacceptable to kick the front seat and rest against it with knees. And also fold your legs, hands and other body parts on it. Angry passengers can tear them.

Sexual promiscuity of British tourists, as well as their passion for wild antics in a drunken state, has long been known in the traditional holiday countries of the British, such as Spain or Greece. Or even Latvia, where a number of British “bachelors” are held.

According to a survey conducted by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Kingdom, every seven British admitted that while on vacation had sex in a public place, and every twentieth ran around naked or showed naked ass in public. Every second Englishwoman sunbathes topless, with absolutely no interest in what is prescribed in this regard in the law of the host country. The poll was attended by 34 thousand Englishmen, which shows the true scale of the disaster. Head of Statistics FCO said that in 2008 more than 500 000 British could be arrested for immoral behavior abroad.

Moreover, according to the research of social psychologists, drunken fights and aggressive sexual escapades became part of British culture of leisure. Of course, this applies only to British youth, the power fathers of families with a decent prosperity fly away on holiday with children to Turkey or to the islands of the Caribbean region and do not allow themselves to make wild antics. However, they were also once students, from the tumult of which the walls of bars on the Spanish resorts shook, they showed ass to a young Greek woman and urinated on a bet on the Statue of Liberty in Riga.

British young people tend to travel with groups and the behavior of members of these groups is subject to the “law of the pack”. This means that approval of compatriots would be much more important for the tourist than any aggression or immoral act with respect to local residents. Excessive alcohol consumption also weakens the adequate perception and evaluation of their actions and their consequences. As a result, all European countries, where low-cost -airlines fly from the UK are subject to attacks by young British. The farther, the more dangerous become their antics.

Last week, Turkish authorities deported 19-year-old British tourist, Thomas Strong, who was laid bare and shouted insults before the statue of Ataturk in Marmaris. It should be noted that the attitude to Turkey’s national hero and the first president Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is not as free as to modern European presidents. As a result, Strong was very lucky that the police managed to arrest him; otherwise the British would be lynched by local residents. Turkish court expelled the young tourist from the country and banned him to visit Turkey within 5 years, but the group of insulted Turks requires hanging the villain considering the punishment to be too liberal. Strong could not explain his behavior. “I do not know why I did it” – he said in court.

However, returning home, the British youth comes to senses and begins to treat all misdemeanors committed in the resorts as meaningless episode. So, in July in Greece scandal associated with the regular drunken antics of British tourist was broken. Stewart Felten, brazenly accosted local woman and when he laid bare, the girl could not stand it, splashed on him alcohol and burned him. Tourist received second degree gravity burns, was evacuated to his home country and sued the Greek woman for causing severe injuries. It turns out that he is absolutely not guilty, and she attacked him herself, poured a liquid to ignite the coals and set on fire in response to an innocent phrase, uttered in the side. Evidence of local residents, the bar, and the fact that according to medical records of flammable liquid was spilled on the naked body, not on clothes, all of this is a little more than noise for the British. But the testimony of his comrades, who claim that Felten “did not say anything” and behaved as usual, show an aggressive sexual behavior and rampant drunkenness peculiar to British tourists on holiday.

1. Barcelona

Merry tourist bustle on the broad sidewalks in Rambla is an ideal habitat for pickpockets. Once visited Barcelona the visitors often note that putting hands in the pockets of other people in this city has become a sort of a national sport. So before you freeze in admiration for the creations of Gaudi, hide your wallet a little deeper, or you will have to earn for a return ticket by sweeping the pavements in front of the creations of the great architect.

2. Rome

The striking architecture of the ancient city, full of historical events, leads tourists to such an excitement that they totally forget to monitor their wallets and cameras, which is not missed by smart local pickpockets. In the crowd of thousands of people who admire the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, hunters for another person’s property may be more than the tourists themselves.

3. PragueIncredibly beautiful and extremely narrow Charles Bridge is decorated with 30 beautiful statues in Baroque style. Every day tens of thousands of tourists are going to look at it, that’s why the bridge is crowded, as in the subway at rush hour. The tourist, trying to hold for a figure of good fortune and not be swept away with the passing crowd is a perfect victim for the pickpocket. Keep this in mind when, after drinking the excellent Czech beer, you will embrace the pedestal of the statue of St. John.

4. Madrid

Picturesque El Rastro – Madrid’s flea market is often mentioned as the most dangerous place for your pocket. Nor should you relax in museums, which are numerous in Madrid. Victims celebrate the incredible ingenuity of Madrid crooks. For example, a pretty senorita can point you to God knows a suddenly appeared stain on your jacket and begins to remove it with his handkerchief, and “casual” passers-by would help her. The result is obvious – you have no money, no camera, and no documents.

5. Paris

In Paris pickpockets are particularly active in the train from the airport Charles de Gaulle to the downtown. And their targets are often not only the tourists loaded with luggage, but also the Parisians themselves. And, of course, as usual, do not relax in the metro, museums, and at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

6. Florence

Florence is not inferior to the capital in the number of attractions, crowds of admiring tourists, and perhaps that not inferior in the number of virtuoso pickpockets. So, after looking at the majestic beauty of David by Michelangelo, instead of telling your friends the biblical story, it is better to get a stronger hold on your wallet.

7. Buenos Aires

Minor crooks of the capital of Argentine, basically use the same scheme as their Spanish counterparts. If during the inspection of the Colon Opera House stranger points you to the bird droppings on your shoulder and will kindly offer you to clean off with his napkin, which he already holds ready, get away from him. Otherwise, he will quickly clean your pockets.

8. Amsterdam

Amsterdam can easily lead travelers to a relaxed state by its friendly relaxed atmosphere, and tourists are often caught in the channels or into the hands of thieves, for whom it causes no difficulty to turn inside the pockets of a traveler overstayed in coffee shops.

9. Athens

Legendary ancient city is full of white marble of ancient monuments, and tourists can easily sink into the atmosphere of ancient Greek myths, completely forgetting about the modern dangers. As long as the eyes admire the perfection of the Parthenon on the Acropolis, the hand should firmly hold the bag.

10. Hanoi

The old quarter of the capital of Vietnam is literally strewn with the monuments of colonial architecture and hundreds of temples and pagodas, which attract crowds of tourists, and tourists, in their turn, attract fans of easy money. However, except for small thieves, we can say that Hanoi is one of the safest cities in the world.

On February 14, take your sweetheart to watch the migration of butterflies in the Mexican province Miokan or go to the carnival in Salvador, not as famous as the carnival in Rio, but more sincere. There is much less direction, and anyone can join the marchers, what is happening on all the streets of this very African city of Brazil.

Do not go to warm countries for fun in March and say goodbye to winter on a merry note. The easiest way for this is the snow and music festival in Mayrhofen Austria. Every year, at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level, under the motto “Snowboards day, dancing the night” lovers of winter fun and hot parties are gathered here. After active outdoor recreation follows a more active recreation in clubs, dance parties with the best European D.Js, street costume shows, and live music under the roof and in the middle of the Alps … In general, the main issue is not about where to go, but to keep up everywhere.

If the dancing attracts less than politics, and creative impulses nevertheless need to vent, go to Valencia to engage with local people constructing a giant papier-mâché dolls of famous public figures. It does not matter if the figure created by you would seem unsuccessful: they will be happily burned in the last day of the fire festival. They say that the spectacle of the burning of giant figures with gradually separating parts of their “body” is fascinating and is more impressive than any, even the most grandiose firework.

The festival in the orange of the Netherlands is considered to be the best to celebrate the arrival of the heat and the offensive of spring. Despite the fact that the ruling queen’s birthday is in January, and her predecessor was born on April 30, on the last day of the month citizens dressed in orange, from the morning start to celebrate the holiday which has become national. The most interesting thing is happening in Hague, where the palace of the Queen is, and in Amsterdam, where the Orange mortal river is. Moving in accordance with the bends of channels, people sing, dances and light fireworks. The evening ends with a carnival. By the way, this day the police is not allowed to intervene in what is happening, that is why the fun reaches unimaginable proportions.

An alternative would be to go to Barcelona at St. George’s Day, colorful analogue of Valentine’s Day, when everywhere in the streets there are red roses, and on the square before the cathedral flock of dragons sit peacefully. All day dragons are quietly photographed with everyone allowing dragging their tail, but at midnight, they are prepared for attack, snorting with fire and smoke, cramp the audience. As a result, the emerged victorious St. George wins fire-breathing dragons and in token of reconciliation red roses grow from their jaws.

While choosing where to go in May, you should pay attention to the Scottish Festival of whiskey. It is in May, that a month of whiskey is announced in Scotland. You can visit the distillery usually closed to the outside public and take part in tastings of rare aged varieties.

In June, it is best to choose the white nights of St. Petersburg. You need to only buy tickets in advance on the train or plane, and then, walking at night, enjoy the mystical and romantic atmosphere of the city on the Neva.
Leaving for the traditional European resorts in July (and August) ,perhaps ,will be a madness: it is hot and the crowds are everywhere. It is much better and more interesting to make a fascinating journey along the rivers and lakes of Finland. The choice of water transport means can be anything from a kayak or raft to the comfortable ship, and road maps of water drawn in such detail that even the novice traveler will not get lost in the numerous rivers and lakes of the country.

In August, it’s high time to go to Ireland for a traditional Puck Fair, the world’s oldest non-religious holiday. Known for their love of horses, the Irish turned it into a big fair, where horses are sold and many horse races take place, incendiary Irish music sounds and beer flows. Those who cannot handle the horse are always offered to take part in silly contests like throwing a pie or competitions for the longest tongue. Winner takes on the keg of “Guinness”. The coronation of a wild goat caught in good time in the mountains will be the culmination of the feast.

If you enjoy art, do not miss the most intriguing exhibition of the year in September. In the UK Tate Gallery Turner and Masters Exhibition will be held, where famous British landscape painter’s paintings, which he bequeathed to the gallery, will be paired with the works of those whose style he once imitated.

In October you should go on a camel fair in the Indian city of Pushkar (Rajasthan) by all means. It was once visited only by the locals, but now the fair has gradually become not only the largest place of trade with the animals, but also a national festival that attracts many tourists. Despite the fact that the Year’s Fair is dedicated to the Hindu festival, carnival atmosphere and fun makes it attractive for all. The highlight of the festival is the racing camels.

In November it will be interesting to visit the show in the open air at Brandenburg gates, dedicated to the fall of the Berlin Wall. And of course, December is associated with the wires of the outgoing and the new meeting. To escape from the pre-holiday hustle and get entirely different impressions is possible if you go to the festival of dancing Dervishes in the Turkish city of Konya.

Travel tickets for everybody
Tthere are train tickets for different expiration periods (for 3, 5, 6, 7, 14 days with unlimited number of trips). They are also divided depending on how many countries you want to visit. The exact price of tickets can easily be found on different sites online.

There are also other practical offers for travelers . For example some companies offer tickets which allow you to travel by train in the 21 European countries, including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. You can choose from 15 or 21 consecutive days, 1, 2 or 3 month.

If will travel to only one or two countries, it is best to choose tickets, which apply for Germany and the Czech Republic, France and Italy, Denmark and Sweden, or in to other neighboring states.

Pay attention to local tickets, read the information at stations – often there are discounts for the weekend. Sometimes several people can travel with one ticket. So although such ticket is beneficial even for one tourist, it is possible to save heaving found other person at the station before the departure. For example, in Germany you can meet a young man who will come up and ask whether anyone has such a ticket. If you offer him to join, he will pay you a part of the ticket price.

Information for consideration
Always clarify if the ticket is valid for a concrete route. For example, many tickets can not be used on panoramic trains in Switzerland.

The travel ticket may not extend on very comfortable night trains, where places need to be reserved in advance.

Attentively look tickets’ validity period: it does not always start from 12 o’clock in the morning and ends at 12 o’clock the next night.

Read the terms: there can be pleasant surprises – an additional discount on some services for hotel accommodation, tours, free travel for another kind of transport.

When buying necessarily specify your age. For young people under 25 traveling is much cheaper.

Right to Choose
Now, when you got acquainted with tickets, think whether you need to buy them? Perhaps you will not travel so long in Europe, and therefore it is reasonably to buy a simple ticket from point A to point B? Take a sheet of paper and calculate: where will you go and how much does the ticket cost. Think maybe some points can be reduced, and in some places you can find a shorter route? Now sum the cost of tickets for all days of the supposed travel and compare it with the price of combined ticket. If you know in advance where you have to go you can save your money by paying the ticket 2-3 months in advance. If go to another country, look the prices of tickets on websites of national railways of both countries – often the cost can essentially differ.