Montevideo, Uruguay, South America

About Montevideo

By Julie Coburn

The Delights of Montevideo,  Uruguay

If you don’t already know, Uruguay is nestled between the borders of Argentina and Brazil. It’s a tiny country compared to the giants that sit above and around it but, that doesn’t mean it’s any less charming than any other South American Country.
The population of Uruguay is a little over 3.5 million people and at least half of them live in its Capital Montevideo. This city is an absolute must see if you’re in South America. In fact, if you visit Buenos Aires you can be in Montevideo in just under an hour by plane.
The first thing that strikes you about this marvelous place is the history that surrounds it (which, of course has a staunch military background). Sitting on the banks of the world famous Rio de la Plata (River Plate), this proud city is a site to behold. During the summer months La Ramblas, which is the main coastal road in Montevideo is packed with locals and tourists alike as they take walks along the river banks and its beaches.

What to See
For soccer fans or, indeed for those of you that are interested in a bit of sporting history, a visit to the Estadio Centenario is not to be missed. This soccer stadium was the place where the very first FIFA World Cup was held in 1930. Very famously, the hosts, Uruguay won the cup.
It would be wrong to say that much has changed about the stadium since that time but this just adds to the overall ambience. If you can, whilst you’re visiting take in a soccer game between the ancient rivals Penarol and Nacional, the atmosphere is something you will never forget!
Plaza Independencia is a landmark that splits the old Uruguay from new. It’s famous for its interesting architecture as well as the famous statue of General Artigas who is considered to be the father of Uruguay.

Ciudad Vieja or, the Old Town is set near a harbor which is one of the main haunts for cruise ships. Not only will you find lots of hints of the past such as the colonial streets, iron gates and lamps there are also plenty of little cafes and bars that are great spots to catch some sun and just watch the world go by.

Food and Drink
It has to be said, if you’re not a meat eater, you may struggle in Montevideo. The Argentineans would strongly disagree but some of the best beef in the world comes

Panama City, Panama, Central America

Panama City, Panama

 By Ricaurte Xavier Mendoza

Panama City is now one of the most exiting cities in America to visit and enjoy!     During the last several years, Panama City has turned into a first world city with a very interesting mix of traditions and modernity, surrounded by all sorts of activities and places to visit.
What to visit:

Panama Canal
A trip to the Panama Canal is a once in a lifetime adventure and experience. The Panama Canal is one of the most popular tourist attractions in world, with tours offered by cruise boat, allowing individuals to see the canal up close in daily operations. Visitors will be able to sail through the canal, admiring the beautiful scenery, experiencing history at its finest. You will learn the history of the canal, while experiencing the sensation of sailing from one ocean to another.

Casco Viejo
Casco Viejo is a cultural gem of Panama City. This historical district was established around 1673 by the Spanish colonists, the church, and other settlers. This gem was on one of the richest and most densely populated neighborhoods of the Americas. Today, this energy-filled corner has been restored; the buildings that had once served as home have been transformed into museums, gourmet restaurants, shops, and upscale residencies.

Amador Causeway
The Amador Causeway is an architectural must see for all. This unique landmark is both a roadway and a walkway that connects Panama’s mainland to the four small islands; Naso, Culebra, Perico, and Flamenco. Crossing the roadways you will see a magnificent view of Panama City’s skyline, bridge of Americas and the Panama Bay.
Travelers can enjoy a wide range of attractions such as a gaze at the cruise port, the marina, a day at the Fuerte Amador Shopping, dining at the restaurant plaza, and a day at the Figali Convention centers.  The Marine Exhibition Center of the Smithsonian Research Institution also attracts several visitors as it allows an up close and personal look at the creative nature of the Panama Country.

Taboga Island.
The Taboga Island, thought surrounded by

Ottawa, Canada

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, North America

By Erica Roberts

Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, and is located in the province of Ontario. At Toronto's Boring Awards, which took place near the end of May, it was voted Canada's most boring city, but anyone who lives here knows that's a joke! Ottawa has a lot to offer both tourists and locals. If you're paying the city a visit, there are many tourist attractions you definitely won't want to miss. Luckily, most of these are located downtown. Most importantly, you won't want to leave without seeing the Parliament Buildings, the political hub of Canada, where the Canadian Senate and House of Commons meet to make all of the important decisions about how the country is run. You can also view the Prime Minister Stephen Harper's house, located a few minutes away from the Parliament Buildings by car, and you will be able to pay a visit to the Supreme Court of Canada, Canada's highest appeal court, also located downtown. Both the Supreme Court and the Parliament Buildings offer guided tours. While you're at the Parliament buildings, make sure you visit the statues of Canadian
historical figures outdoors—it's fun to climb one and have your picture taken!

You won't want to leave Ottawa without also visiting the downtown's Byward Market. The 'Market' might be best known for its happening bars, pubs, and nightclubs for party animals of all ages, but it also has a great selection of restaurants, specialty food shops, and outdoor stands selling things like unique jewellery and woven products. A great restaurant to dine at in the Byward Market is Tucker's Marketplace, which offers an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet every weekday. If you're lucky enough to be having a birthday while you're in Ottawa, you'll be able to help yourself to the buffet for free. If you do end up hitting the nightclubs, young people will especially enjoy the East-coast inspired Pier 21, Pub 101, and the Liquor Store Party Bar. Older folk may prefer the ambience of three stellar Irish pubs: Patty Boland's, the Aulde Dubliner Pourhouse (known by locals as just the 'Pourhouse'), and the Heart & Crown.

If you're the artsy type, make sure you pay a visit to the National Gallery of Canada, which is downtown and features amazing displays of Canadian art, including authentic Inuit art. The National Arts Centre is also located in the heart of Ottawa's downtown, and hosts many concerts and

Santa Cruz, California, USA

Santa Cruz, California, USA, North America

By Sarah Bargetto 

Having brought you amazing waves and surfing expenditures, Chris Rene from the X-Factor, the movie Chasing Mavericks, the legendary Santa Cruz logo, James Durbin, a talented American Idol participant, and one of California’s best schools, UCSC– Santa Cruz, California is a paradigm of perfection, or as close to perfection as one can get!
Santa Cruz, California, home to friendly beach bums and thrill-seeking wave riders, is located in Northern California in the United States with a population of approximately 60,000 local residents. Santa Cruz’s beautiful beaches and “gnarly” waves prove it to be an ideal summer vacation to young families and a lax getaway for couples of any ages. To the locals, Santa Cruz is a sacred place of beauty, a mix of lush forests and eternal coastlines.

Geography
Santa Cruz is positioned on the north side of the Monterey Bay, which provides coasts for many surrounding towns and mountains filled with towering redwoods make up the backside of the city. Within Santa Cruz County, there are a multitude of small beach towns and residential areas and neighborhoods such as Capitola, Scott’s Valley, East and West Cliff, and Aptos that encompass Santa Cruz City itself. There are a few main streets that run through the county, allowing for easier access and navigation including River St., Mission St., Soquel Dr., and 41st Ave. Although these streets may be the busiest, they virtually take you anywhere from one town to the next.

All About the Locals
In Santa Cruz, the term “locals” is taken with pride. Most Santa Cruzians feel a sense of ownership over the town, and are sometimes protective. But this does not stop their great hospitality and interest in sharing the great place they call home.
Most people believe that the locals are sun-kissed beach-goers and skilled surfers, when they are much more than that. They are an ethnically diverse population, they are stewards of the earth, and they are a family-driven community. The most important matter to the local citizens is the quality of the beaches. There are many organizations, which strive for cleaner beaches, and local high schools contribute and collaborate as well. The main concern most locals have is the disrespect that travelers and tourists have, leaving trash and tarnishing the marine and terrestrial environment.


The locals also partake in activities such as any other city or

Rome, Italy, Europe

Rome, Italy

Roma caput mundi (Rome, the head of the world)

by Vincenzo Mele

History

Rome was found in 753 B.C. , where the river Tiber flows into the Tyrrhenian Sea. This made it  a very important communication node. It is also shielded from the Apennines mountains, making the climate very good.
These facts convinced the first shepherds and traders to establish himself in Rome. Then, thanks to an impressive military force, Rome expands its territory, from Italy to Europe, Africa and Asia (America had not been discovered yet !).

Since 1870  Rome is the capital of Italy, having a population of about 3 millions.


Be aware.
 When you arrive in Rome, landing at Fiumicino airport (or Ciampino airport) ,  a lot of people will ask you to drive you to the city center. TAKE ONLY A REGULAR TAXI  (white car) . The cost of transportation from airport IS FIXED and is written on the door of the car.

What to see
Rome has too many thinks to see. It's impossible to see all, also if you stay long time. So it's better to plan where to go, discarding other thinks to be saw next time.

Following list show  neighboring sites. It  will help you to save time:

1 Colosseo  (Colosseum) ,  Foro Romano , Chiesa di San Pietro in Vincoli (this Church is not the more known San Peter Basilica (= big Church) in Vatican city)

2 San Peter Basilica , Cappella Sistina and Musei Vaticani

3 Piazza Navona

4 Trastevere, where you can eat well and cheaply .

Rome has a lot of churches. Inside each you can find almost  always pictures, statues , etc of very important artists.

Parks
Most important Rome parks are:

1 Villa Borghese, near to famous via Veneto. Inside there is the Museo Borghese, with the statue of Paolina Borghere (sister of Napoleon)

2 Villa Ada

3 Villa Doria- Panphili


Transportation
One of the bad aspects of Rome are public transportation

Miami, Florida, USA

Visitor’s Guide to Miami – The Magic City

By Frederick S Blackmon

South Beach

The crown jewel of Miami is South Beach. This world-renowned strip of beach is a delight to the senses. There are beautiful people everywhere you look. That is actually an activity here: people watching on South Beach. The strip is dotted with art deco hotels, boutique shops and restaurants. The club scene here is vibrant and electric. It’s an all night party on South Beach and locals often don’t get started until after midnight. Just remember, you had better bring your wallet. Everything is more expensive on South Beach. A bottle of water in a South Beach night club might run you six or seven dollars. You have to always keep in mind that you’re paying for the caliente atmosphere. South Beach is all about the experience.

Events
Miami is one of the event capitals of the world. So when you plan your trip to Miami, be sure to find out what events are taking place during your stay. Miami plays host to the Winter Music Festival and Ultra Festival in the spring, which are week long dance and music events that bring out the wild side of the city. Fashion Week in Miami draws people from all over the world to see the latest trends and styles. There are fashion shows, club promotions and beautiful models everywhere you look. Art Basil is another event that brings fine art from all around the world and uses the city itself as a canvas. Everything from graffiti street art to thousand dollar paintings is on display at venues across the city. For locals, these festivals and events help bolster the economy. For tourists, they offer a theme for your visit. It’s a great way to see the city because everyone gets involved.

Food
The food scene in Miami is an eclectic blend of cultural influences. Miami is a melting pot. You have Cuban, Haitian, and Jamaican flavors competing for your taste buds at every turn. To classify the food as “island” or “Latin” is a huge disservice to the sub-cultural persuasions of the city. Here in

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean

Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, West Indies
The Heart of Trinidad and Tobago

By Daniel Maharaj

Introduction

The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, located on the northern most edge of South America, is home to one of the most vibrant, festive and lively cities in the world, Port of Spain. It is here that a melting pot of the multicultural and multi-ethnic diversity of the country is displayed, in all its colourful glory. Port of Spain boastfully prides itself with being the capital of Trinidad and Tobago, a title it is worthy of possessing. The capital city has greatly shaped the country into being what it is to the Caribbean region, a gem! A population of approximately 50,000 people; Trinidad and Tobago has a total population of 1.3 million people; and with residents from other parts of the country visiting (they’re mostly likely jealous) the capital, means that Port of Spain is always buzzing with activity. This has no doubt contributed to making it the heart of Trinidad and Tobago, without it the country would just be, well, ordinary. A question that most tourists ask is what makes Port of Spain worth visiting? Well its people, transportation, food, nightlife, sites and festivals! Let’s enjoy some of what Port of Spain has to offer.

The City and It’s People

In any city, its people are the nucleus and this fact is true about Port of Spain. Upon entering the city, one can get a sense of hustle and bustle, but at the same time a prevailing attitude that life is too short to waste. Streets are filled with vendors trying to make ends meet, people hurrying off to work (everyone knows that Trinidadians are usually always late); while still there are those whose time is best spent enjoying the atmosphere to a refreshing beverage. The traffic is usually heavy, causing citizens to leave home early, only to realise that others were thinking along their lines. Vehicular traffic is not the only traffic in the city, as human traffic is quite heavy as well, this being even more so on Fridays when the streets are rammed pack with pedestrians; probably shopping, heading home from work or doing what ‘Trinis’ (local term for Trinidadians) do best, party. One would do well to be very cautious around the city at this time and even more so at night (like any other city in the world), as there will be those bent on spoiling your visit. However, despite all of this, one will find that the citizens of Port of Spain are quite hospital and willing to help in almost any way possible. You will find the people of Port of Spain to be extraordinary, adding essence to the city.

Exploring Port of Spain Equals Transportation

Port of Spain isn’t a very large city. In fact, if one is up to it, the only transportation that you will need are on you and your feet! Most of the landmarks located in and around Port of Spain are in walking distance from each. It’s not uncommon to see tourist walking from location to location, which makes the experience even more memorable. However, if one prefers to use a vehicular means of transportation, Port of Spain is the place to be. The city is the heart of the country’s transportation network. There are taxis everywhere, willing and

Portland, Oregon, USA

By Rebekah Villon

Thanks to the popular TV show “Portlandia”, Portland, Oregon has become known as the place where young people go to retire. But visitors of all ages will find plenty to love in this compact, tree-filled city.

Urbanites will enjoy shopping (no sales tax!) downtown at the many upscale boutiques, followed by a
quick streetcar trip into the Pearl District. Don't miss light appetizers and hand-crafted cocktails at The Teardrop Lounge, then stroll over (yes, even in the rain, Portlanders walk everywhere) to Jamison Square while choosing from one of the many restaurants in the vicinity. If it's the first Thursday of the month, the Pearl District's dozens of art galleries will be open for walking tours, with art openings and street vendors and exhibitions every few yards. Or head back to The Armory for some theater, courtesy of Portland Center Stage.

Nature lovers will delight in hiking in Forest Park. Bordering the west side of downtown Portland, Forest Park is one of America's largest urban forests, and it's full of well-maintained trails through a peaceful wooded oasis, full of local trees, plants, and birds. Just adjacent is Washington Park, offering amazing city views from the Rose Garden, an authentic Japanese Garden, the Hoyt Arboretum, Oregon Zoo, and more.

While in Portland, set aside a day to visit the Pacific Coast. Just a couple hours west of the city, Oregon's beaches are owned by the public and freely accessible to everyone. The Oregon Coast is lined with charming little towns and home to dozens of parks and wildlife areas. However, due to the small mountain range between the city and the coast, check the weather forecast before you go: a sunny day in the city is often overcast at the beach, and vice-versa.

Speaking of day trips, a couple hours drive to the east will bring you to the Columbia Gorge, home of dozens of amazing wineries, adventurous wind and water sports, and breathtaking scenery.

Whatever your interests, make sure you visit world-famous Powell's City of Books in the heart of Portland. Powell's is a local institution, carrying every new and used book you could hope for, and (if you don't want all that bulk in your luggage) they'll ship your purchases to your home. Even if you don't want to buy books, it's a perfect spot to sip coffee and people-watch, just like the locals do.

Finally, you could vacation like a Portland native. Start your day off with artisanal Coava Coffee and read the local Willamette Week. Then ride a bike through inner SE Portland (even in the rain), visiting Ladd's Addition and Lone Fir Cemetery before stopping for lunch at one of our ubiquitous food cart pods. Then ride up to Laurelhurst Park or climb Mount Tabor and throw a frisbee, walk a dog, or just read a book.

Then, of course, you have to visit at least one brew pub. Portland is rightly famous for its beer. It has
more microbreweries than any city in the world, and is 3rd in the nation for craft breweries per capita. A good one is Amnesia Brewing in North Portland, but there are so many. After a few beers, head up the street to catch some live music at Mississippi Studios, or check the music calendar at Secret Society.

Wrap up your night at a strip club, in true Portland style. If it's Sunday, Devil's Point combines stripping and Karaoke for the best of both worlds. But Mary's Club downtown is always a favorite.

Portland is a laid-back city, full of people who appreciate good food, coffee, wine, and beer. We value our unique environment and clear water, and don't mind cloudy skies. Come discover that Portland is a way of life.

Panama City Beach, Florida, USA

Panama City Beach, Florida

By Susan Woodby

Not just for Spring Break!
There are cities all over the world that are tourist attractions, great places to live, cultural meccas, educational centers, and even retirement communities.  Few places, however, are known for all of them at the same time.  Panama City and Panama City Beach Florida have the distinct advantage of appealing to all age groups and all of the diverse interests.

Panama City is located in the panhandle of Florida, on the Gulf of Mexico. It has long been known for its beautiful sugar white beach sand – 27 miles of it! – and as a number 1 rated Spring Break destination.  It is also home of the Thunder Beach Spring and fall motorcycle rally each year, as well as the Iron Man triathalon. Of course, many families choose to come to Panama City for the many sports and fishing tournaments, or just to enjoy the sun and surf.

Are you looking for a shopping destination? The new Pier Park shopping complex (over 900,000 sq. ft.) will definitely fascinate you. It includes a 16 screen movie theatre, restaurants such as Jimmy Buffets Margaritaville, national retailers as well as small unique local shops, and even an amusement park to enthrall the kids while you shop!  The rides in the park are right in the middle of the center, and have been brought from the old Miracle Strip amusement park and completely refinished.
When you go looking for nightlife, the only problem

Chicago, Illinois, USA

Chicago IL, USA, - North America

By: Kevin Quinn

Chicago is one the largest and most populous cities in the United States and is the biggest city in the Midwest. It is located on Lake Michigan and is called home current President of the United States, Barack Obama. Chicago is a very diverse city and welcomes people of all ethnicities and religions. I can guarantee it will be one of the best cities you ever visit.

Tourist Attractions:
Chicago has enough events, museums, buildings, and parks to visit that most people who have lived here for their entire lives still have not done everything. For much of the past Chicago was known for having the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere which is now called the Willis Tower (formally the Sears Tower) which you can visit and take a trip to the top to look down on the beautiful city. Another place to observe the city from above is the John Hancock Observatory.
As for museums, Chicago has something for every type of person. Here in Chicago we have the Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry which as an amazing exhibit about a captured German U-Boat from World War II. The list continues with the Chicago History Museum, the Art Institute, and the Field Museum.

Despite being a big city, Chicago has enough to keep even an outdoors type of person busy for months. Famous Millennium Park is a must for any visitor. Also, being right on Lake Michigan allows for beach goers, boaters, fishermen, and surfers to have a blast while having the gorgeous Chicago skyline in the background.
Navy Pier is yet another must for the tourist visiting Chicago. It has food vendors, shops, attractions, theatres, the famous ferris wheel, and much more. Even an afternoon stroll would amaze a visitor.


Food:
Chicago has some of the best food you can find in the United States. We can offer you everything from a Chicago Style hot dog to a cheeseburger you could die for. However, if there is one thing we Chicagoans are known for, it is our Deep Dish Pizza! It is the best and you have to try it to enjoy the full Chicago experience.
Chicago has a restaurant for every palate. In addition to a

Denver, Colorado, USA

Denver, Colorado, USA  -North America

By Alexey Churchwell

If you’re coming from a bustling city, the first thing that you’ll notice about Denver is the pace we walk at. We don’t move at a crawl or anything; we just walk casually. Automatic doors are timed a little differently, and people aren’t in as much of a rush.
Denver’s a major city, full of large office buildings and busy highways; it’s just also relaxed. There’s as much to see in the city around you as there is in the place you’re trying to get. In the suburbs, you’ll see open spaces and parks every few streets. In the inner city, you’ll see gorgeous architecture, street art, and a thousand local shops that you’ll miss unless you’re walking.
If you’re looking for something to do, the first place you should head to is Downtown Denver. Take a walk down 16th street mall – depending on the time of day, you’ll see a street performer or two, smell delicious food wafting from the restaurants, or catch one of the city’s latest art installations. If you don’t feel like walking, you can take the free shuttle bus from one end of the mall to the other.
From the mall, it’s a short light rail ride to the Denver Art Museum; on the first Saturday of the month, you can actually get in for free. Once you’re done perusing the mixture of Renaissance artwork and modern sculpture, you can head next door to the Denver Library, or cross the street to City Park. On Sundays over the summer, you can catch a free jazz concert in the park - but be prepared for a crowd.
No description of Downtown Denver would be complete without a mention of Coors Field, located off of Blake Street, right by the 16th street mall. Unlike most baseball field, you can get bleacher tickets for only $4 apiece. Lovingly dubbed the Rockpile, the cheap seats in Coors Field are high up and right behind center field – it’s one of the best views in the stadium, and you can drop in whenever you like.
If you’ve got an entire day to spend (and enough cash to spend on tickets), consider visiting Elitch Gardens, the local amusement park. There are enough rides to keep you busy from open to close, and enough variety to suit both the bold and the relaxed. While there are restaurants within the park, savvy visitors leave a picnic in their car, and exit the park over lunchtime, before returning for some more fun.
Lower Downtown Denver, dubbed LoDo by the natives, should be your next stop on your city tour. On the first Friday of every month, local artists set up exhibits all along the streets. Grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant, then listen to the local music as you browse paintings, sketches, sculptures, and more.
After you’re done visiting Downtown, don’t forget to take a drive through the rest of the Denver Metro Area. Although Lakewood, Westminster, Arvada, and other districts are technically cities of their own, the entire city sprawls into one. If you head east and south of downtown, you can check out the Museum of Nature and Science, or swing by the

Houston, Texas, USA

Houston, Texas, USA    - North America

By Athelda Ensley

It is true that everything in the state of Texas is big and spacious. Even largely populated cities like
Houston are sprawling and diverse. A spaghetti-style collection of highways, interstates and roadways connects this city to surrounding locations. As the fourth largest city in the United States Houston, Texas has a lot to offer to visitors and tourists. The more than 90 languages spoken in the city is representative of its ever growing population. Latino, Vietnamese, Korean and a variety of African communities exist in this city.
Houston offers a vast collection of immigrant and native residents. The common theme among most that live in the city is a deep love and pride for the state of Texas. Singular star emblems can be seen throughout Houston. This star representative of the state flag is displayed on buildings, apparel and even homes. Sports in Houston are embraced just as wholeheartedly as symbols of the state of Texas. In fact, many of the universities and colleges here have lifelong fans whether alumni or not.
The University of Houston, Rice University, Texas Southern University and others are popular locales for residents and students alike. Athletic teams in football, soccer and basketball are supported by large numbers of attendees. Professional teams, such as, the Houston Rockets, Houston Astros and Houston Texans bring basketball, baseball and football fans from around the world to this city. Minute Maid Park and the Toyota Center are venues that attract sports fans to the heart of downtown.
Downtown Houston like other segments of the city provides a choice of transportation. Highway 59, Interstate 10 and 45 are popular fare ways to the city’s offerings in this area. Constant construction can make travel challenging, especially on the weekend. The downtown portion of Houston also has a

MetroRail train that journeys along midtown and downtown. This train system is currently under expansion to provide tourists with even more stops. Buses, taxis, horse-drawn carts and other transportation are available throughout Houston.
Popular tourist attractions downtown include the George R Brown Convention Center, Discovery Green and the Houston Aquarium. Family-friendly activities are

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA

Written by: Margaret A. Barvinek

The “City of Five Seasons”…..a wonderful place to visit.


Every year this town experiences the wonders of the four seasons; winter, summer, spring and fall.  So why do they call this town the “city of five seasons”?  The people who live, work and play here stop every single day to enjoy the wonders that surround them.  The landscape is ever-changing with each season, the generosity of the people who live and work here and taking the time to appreciate the everyday beauty of the things that encircle their lives is the reason for the extra season.  These feelings are expressed in a “fifth season” that is added each year.

Cedar Rapids, Iowa is nestled along the Cedar River in the eastern part of the state.  It boasts of the largest cereal mill in the world, yes the world.  The Quaker Oats company is situated right down town in the heart of the city and the railroad tracks lie alongside the plant and run through the city.  The trains were once the only way to deliver cereal and products to other parts of the country.    Twenty years ago the city made an agreement with the Burlington-Northern railway so they could keep running the trains through the city as long as it did not stop traffic for more than 14 minutes in the downtown area.

Also nestled along the beautiful Cedar River is the Czech & Slovak museum.  The museum has the largest selection of Czech and Slovak artifacts outside the Czech Republic. The museum was damaged in the Flood of 2008, but was moved with money donated by the Czech Republic and private donations and now is bigger and better.  It’s a “must see” when visiting Cedar Rapids.  The museum is located in the part of Cedar Rapids which is appropriately named “Czech town” where you will find many restaurants and pubs with the Czech theme, along with people and homes who have family history dating back to the 1800’s from this area of the world.

Another beautiful structure that was damaged in the 08 floor was

Barcelona, Spain, Europe

So, are you thinking about visiting Barcelona?

By Natalia Ulla Garrido

As someone who currently lives abroad, I find it very encouraging that, whenever I mention to someone that I’m from Barcelona, I get a big smile in return.  Most of the people I have encountered while travelling or living abroad have been to Barcelona, even very young people. It’s a popular destination for those people eager to earn more about Spanish and Catalan culture.

While Spain was for a long time regarded as a tourist destination for British or German families looking to spend their holidays in a warmer climate, drinking beer and disregarding the local culture, things are slowly changing. Barcelona is now considered as one of the most cosmopolitan, innovative, bohemian and cultural cities in the world.

When you think about it, Barcelona has it all: First of all it’s nestled between to mountains, both belonging to the city and easily accessible by public transport.

One of the mountains (Montjuic) is a huge “park”, home to many famous stadiums, swimming pools, actual parks (visit “La font del Gat”, a cute little isolated park decorated with little fountains and gardens), viewpoints, a castle, an outdoor cinema at the base of the castle, tennis courts, horse riding, a whole town-museum (el Poble Español) and even a free indoor climbing tunnel.
The other mountain (Tibidabo), has also a castle and an amusement park, among other things.

But even the urban city itself is full of contrasts. From grand avenues lined-up by breathtaking historical buildings (like the Diagonal), quaint little cobblestoned streets in the old quarter (El casco antiguo), to the modern new “city” built for the Olympic athletes in 1992, along the beaches of Barcelona, which is now a residential and recreation area, full of gardens, sculptures and other street art, palm trees along a beautiful wooden-floored promenade (in some areas it even has outdoor music playing), shopping, restaurants and bars.

When you visit Barcelona, ask yourself

Grecia, Costa Rica

Invitation to my city: Grecia, Costa Rica

Written by Dovile Vaigauskaite


Grecia, though called after European country (in Spanish "Grecia" means Greece), is a typical Costa Rican town. What I like about it is that it is not too big and not too small - it is just perfect. No traffic jams, only few traffic lights, lots of people walking to take care of their errands in hundreds of little shops. You can find almost anything you need here, even a cinema!

Attractions:

Grecia canton has approximately 78 000 inhabitants, although the city itself is much smaller - approximately 15 000 persons call Grecia town their home. Situated on the southwestern slope of famous Poas volcano, and being only 40 minutes ride from San Jose International airport, Grecia is a perfect touristic spot. Most of the visitors are drawn here for its famous metal church - the Cathedral of Our Virgin Mercedes.

After yet another fire had damaged old wooden church back in the 19th century, the locals decided to re-build the church from metal so that no fire could damage it ever again. The metal sheets were shipped all the way from Belgium in 1890 (although some urban legend states that the Belgian metal came to Grecia by mistake: it was meant to be shipped to Greece, and not Costa Rica). The locals take great care of their beloved monument - the church's facade is being painted every few years, although the color always remains the same, deep bordeaux. If you are interested in the history of Grecia canton, visit Regional Museum of Grecia, situated next-door to the church.

Another local attraction is the snake museum  "Snake World" (Mundo de los Serpientes in Spanish), situated in the outskirts of Grecia. It is quite famous among the snake fans, as this place is known for breeding a variety of species, some of which are quite rare. Snake World has around 150 snakes of 50 different species. I am not a big fan of these reptiles, but even I found the tour very interesting and informative (I could not believe how much of misconceptions we have about these animals). Recently, the museum has become a center for rescued wild animals, which means that you may be lucky to see other than snakes animals too.


Costa Rica is a land of nature, abundant in waterfalls. Grecia is proud of one too - Los Chorros waterfall. You will not be ran over by masses of tourists here, as the place is mostly visited by locals. So if you can, head there on a weekday instead of a weekend. Also, bring your lunch: the place has few spots with tables and benches, great for a picnic. Getting to Los Chorros is best by hiring a taxi.

Grecia is a great place to stay overnight and do some day trips. Sarchi, famous for its woodwork artisans, is only 10 minutes drive away. Make sure to visit the factory of the chariots ("carretas" as they are called in Spanish) and the church in the main square. You can see the Poas volcano, famous for being the most accessible volcano in the world, from Grecia center: it is only 45 minutes drive away. If you do go to see Poas, make sure to stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Although the ticket price is a bit much (35 USD), it is totally worth it. The Gardens do not only have 5 most beautiful waterfalls, but also a butterfly observatory, frog pond (most of the frogs that live there you would never see in wilderness), a hummingbird garden, aviary, snakes (yes, more snakes), monkeys' house and even jungle cat exhibit. This is one of my favorite local attraction.

Local food:

Grecia is a great example of typical Costa Rican life. Most residents work in farming sector, growing sugar cane and coffee. Therefore, Grecia is a perfect place to indulge your thirst for coffee. Make sure to grab few bags of local coffee to bring home (any Costa Rican coffee bought in a supermarket is good). If you are interested in how coffee is grown, visit Doka Coffee Plantation: their tours and coffee are famous worldwide. My favorite place to take coffee in Grecia is Las Delicias, a cafe situated on the corner down from the church. Its a great spot for people-watching and for some tasty deserts.

Costa Rican traditional food is quite simple yet tasty. Most typical dish is a so-called "casado" (translated from Spanish, a married man's meal), which comprises rice, beans, salad, fried plantains, meat/poultry/fish of your choise, and fried egg. With one dish like this you will be satisfied for almost a whole day, and you will pay 4-5 USD for it in Grecia. I recommend "El Rancho de Nelson", a family owned restaurant not far from the church, on the same street as the bus station. Make sure to try their milk shakes.



If it happens to be a warm day (Grecia has a very comfortable climate as it is never too hot or too cold), go to ice cream parlor "POPS". I truly believe they have the best ice cream in the world. My personal favorite is coconut and mango.

Every Friday afternoon and Saturday morning there is a local farmers' market (on the road to shopping mall "El Ingenio"). Visiting the market is an experience of its own, where you will definitely see fruits and vegetables you have never seen before.

Local peculiarities:

Although Grecia is a small town, having a map with you is a good idea as it is easy to get lost. Bear in mind, that there are no addresses in Costa Rica. As shocking and scary as it may sound, locals have lived without them for ages, and most foreigners survive too. You find places through geographic indications, e.g. 100 metros south of the church. Having a compass (or a good GPS) will help a lot. And make sure you know which church exactly is meant...

You can reach places by public bus or taxi. Grecia, and the surrounding towns and villages, are very safe and taxi drivers will not try to cheat you on the fare. Still, make sure the taxi meter is on, to avoid any possible misunderstandings.

Costa Ricans are known to be the happiest people in the world. Actually, the thing that attracted me to this country were its people. They will always smile and help you, even if they do not speak English or are busy with something else. Due to their politeness, Ticos (as Costa Ricans are called) will avoid saying "no" or "I don't know" not wanting to disappoint you. However this can cause some inconveniences when you ask for directions, and a good-intending Tico sends you totally the wrong way. It is always a good idea to ask another person the same thing, just to make sure you are headed the right direction.

People will greet you with "pura vida", which literally translates to "life is pure" and is used as "how are you?" in English. However, "pura vida" means much more than this - it is a Costa Rican way of life. Take things easy and enjoy the moment. I hope you enjoy Grecia, my pura vida town.

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