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Upon being asked the question of where they would like to go on holiday many would say somewhere in a
foreign country, and many of those would say somewhere hot, yet very few would say that they would like to
go a few miles away or even leave the country and go somewhere cold, perhaps somewhere interesting. These kinds of
people are becoming fewer and fewer. I personally would have to say I am one of those few, when I
go on a holiday I want to learn something, find out something or even do something new. I can relax,
but just not very well as I can't keep it up, I find it boring doing that, I go on
a holiday to have fun, not just to lie around in the sun. With these points in mind I have
put together a list of holiday destinations I would be happy to visit, the list is as follows. The first
destination on my list is so obvious, you've probably already guessed it, I'm talking of course about Italy, a beautiful
holiday destination with lots to offer. If you were to visit Italy then you would be literally indulged with choices
of what you could do epaggelmatikos odigos evias. If you wanted to visit a place of worship then you
could go to one of Italy's well known cathedrals. Or for a real treat you could go and see the
Pope, can you honestly say you could think of somewhere else where you could do that. If that doesn't sound
that interesting then you could always take a Venetian gondola ride through the city of Venice, a time to be
wowed by its beauty or even just to relax. For more of Italy's culture why not visit one of the
many art galleries that the country has to offer, although if you really want to see something great, something that
you can actually get up close to then why not give the leaning tower of Pisa a try, it's true
what they say you know, it really does lean. The list goes on, and it's not all views, Italy boasts
lots of places to relax, lots of places to have fun including some great theme parks. I simply can't give
it the justice it deserves using words, so why not book a holiday to Italy now and you can do
and see these things as well as many more of them, you won't know how good it is until you've
tried it. The second destination on my list may strike you as a bit odd taking in mind what I
started this article saying, but I hope to show you that it isn't and that it really is worth checking
out, I am talking of Greece, perhaps just as beautiful as Italy with it's own unique culture. There is a
quite frankly huge choice of things to do, with such attractions as windsurfing, photography, scuba diving, rock climbing, swimming and
even festivals. But if you want a holiday in Greece I heavily suggest you look into the islands around Greece
as some of them are really nice, but once again don't take my word for it, check it out for
yourself. The last destination on my list some would not really consider as a holiday destination, but if you are
one of those people then you may just be missing out, the country I'm talking about is Australia, believe it
or not Australia has an astonishing amount of things to do. If you wanted something interesting to see then you
could go a bit extreme with how you do it and get a hot air balloon ride, or if you
want something refreshing you could go scuba diving or perhaps you could go sight seeing, Australia is huge and fun
for all. After reviewing these places I have made my choice, the question is, have you made yours. T.
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Thassos is an exotic Greek island in the Aegean Sea and it is situated a few kilometers away from the
continent, 20 kilometers southeast from Kavala. If you travel from the nearest, to the island link (Keramoti) it will be
a cheap and quick ferry travel around 30 minutes. The season in Thassos is nearly 2 months shorter than the
one in Keramoti - from the second half of May to the first half of September. During the peak of
the season (July and August) there are sometimes cool winds and rains because the island is completely surrounded by water.
There are many hotel houses you can rent. The ancient Greek legend tells us that this place is one of
the most erotic adventures of Zeus. The Phoenician king Aginor had three sons: Phoenix, Siliks and Cadmus and one daughter
called Europa. One summer day, Zeus transformed into a bull and took away Europa to a cave in the island
Crete. After the act, three sons were born - Minos, the famous king of Crete, Radamantos, the wise lawmaker and
Sarpidon, the first king of ancient Litsiya. While hidden in the island of Crete, Europa was enjoying the caress of
Zeus, her father Aginor sent his three sons and his only grandson Thassos to find Europa and told them to
search until they find her. All head in different directions - Phoenix head south, Siliks head north, Cadmus searched over
the islands. euboia But even the advices of the famous oracle of Delphi didn't help them to find Europa.
After searching in many places the young Thassos arrived on the island and charmed by the greenery and the nice
climate, he decided to stay here and that how the island got its name. Another legend tells us that this
remarkable place was once home of beautiful creatures, half women half fish called sirens. Those mermaids were singing beautiful songs
and thus casting a spell on the passing by sailors. And due to this legend Thassos is the place where
the sirens tried to divert Ulysses from his path. evia When you travel around the island you will see
the many olive trees, the endless pine tree forests, various beautiful pictures where the green trees are mixing with the
blue water. But there is some shortage of long beach - you can enjoy the many small ones epaggelmatikos
odigos euboias. But when you travel around Thassos you will find the many remarkable bays which are sometimes hard to
reach. It seems that, these hidden positions, has kept them natural and beautiful, because the bus with tourist can hardly
reach these spots. If you are looking for peaceful vacation on some exotic place, then the island of Thassos can
offer you just what you want. It is a remarkable place surrounded by water, with nice climate and still preserved
the magic from the ancient times. You won't be disappointed if you visit this wonderful place in Greece.

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Travel in Sicily Palermo is the biggest city in Sicily of Italy. It is also a good harbor with dangerous
terrain. Goethe appraised Palermo as the most beautiful cape of the world when he came here. As the dominator changes,
there are different kinds of religions and cultures here. So the buildings of this city show different kinds of styles.
There is a geographer saying that anyone who sees the city can not help turning around to have a look
at Palermo. Although the ancient buildings here are without resplendent and magnificent appearance, they are in harmony with the greenbelts,
the streets and the square of Palermo. The urban area of Palermo is very big. The main scenic spots gather
in the area of the train station to the northwest. The two main streets, the east one Via Roma while
the west one Via Maqueda, run from north to south. The Corso Vittorio Emanuele which runs from the foursquare to
the west leads to cathedral and palace both of which are the most important scenic spots. Agrigento is the place
where all the gods lives. Pindaros, a lyricist of Greece, once praised Agrigento as the most beautiful city in the
world. The dimensions of the city were set as early as the year of 581 BC. From the fifth century,
Agrigento is occupied by the Carthage first and then the Roman. Later on, it was dominated by the Byzantium and
the Arabia Kingdom. But some time later, the importance of Agrigento is replaced by that of the cities in east
coast of Sicily. The busy scene in the past time of Agrigento no longer exists, only a lot of fane
relics left. These fanes are the most important tour resource in Agrigento today epaggelmatikos odigos evias. The scene spots
in Agrigento are not far away from one another. The most important is Valle dei Templi which is about three
kilometers away from the city center and the train station. The area for eating and shopping is not far away
from the slope by the square of the train station. You can go to one area to the other on
foot or by taking a taxi which would take ten minutes euboia. In the north about seven miles away
from Agrigento is a popular San Leone where people can have a swim and take activities on water. There are
lots of people coming here when in summer. For more information about traveling; please have a look at http://www. affordable-cruises-tours.
com.

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Do you dream of walking in the shoes of an adventurer Do you dream of being able to go off
and tour a remote location, climb an extreme mountain or try something new Do you desire to have fun and
challenge your limits while expanding your horizons If so, why are you settling for boring vacations What makes you settle
for going somewhere else to sit around and be bored Why not your heart rate up No matter what activities
interest you or what limits you want to test, there are adventure travels awaiting a booking by you. Here are
some options for individuals who have gotten bored by taking the same old vacation they always take. Dog sledding is
great fun epaggelmatikos odigos euboias! You probably think that going dog sledding can only be done by trained professionals.
If you want to race the Iditarod, you'd be correct. If you just want to explore the sport a little
bit and have some fun, Alaskan Husky Adventures is what you need. This group offers package deals for both two
and three day adventures. You bring your own groceries and stay in their cabins and during the day trained professionals
teach you the basics of dog sledding and take you on guided tours. Do you get a thrill from sightseeing
Do you love being able to explore the places you've only read about in books Why not partake on a
sightseeing adventure travels tour of a place your have only fantasized about visiting Highly favored tourist spots include Greece, Rome,
Ireland and Scotland, Africa, China and Tibet epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. Obviously there are sightseeing tours in nearly every country
in the world, so just make a decision about where you want to go and book a touring trip! Allow
a guide to teach you about your chosen country's culture and history. Are you a food connoisseur Do you tantalize
the idea of learning about and taste testing cuisine from around the world Why not try a culinary tour Apparently,
Italy is one of the trendiest destinations for lovers of food who want to experience cuisine in its "native habitat.
" Ireland, Spain and Greece also offer fabulous "culinary tours. " In addition to tasting the food after it's prepared,
by "native" chefs, these tours also allow you to learn how to cook a variety of dishes on your own.
This is an ideal vacation for any chef wanna-be or any food lover. Adventure travels don't have to be super
expensive (though they can run a little high sometimes). They do not have to be lengthy vacations. Some will only
last for the day! Why would you choose to spend all of your time off from work being bored when
you could spend it having some adventures There are lots of different adventure travel tours to take; the hardest part
of your whole vacation will be deciding what you want to do and where you want to go. You can
have as much fun as you want euboia!

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Key West vacations are a great way to spend your holidays. Of course there are several places one can visit
in this world. But which place you would want to go, will entirely depend on how you want to spend
your holidays. If you are really stressed out with work, you might want to relax in a peaceful place. If
you are bored with your monotonous life then an adventurous and an exotic place would be better where you could
do a whole lot of fun activities with your kids or family or friends. And someone who is interested in
visiting a historical place would like to go to Italy, Rome or Greece! Whether you are going with your family
or with your friends, Key West vacations has both relaxing and exciting things to offer for everyone epaggelmatikos odigos
evias. All attractive places, restaurants, bars, beaches, vacation rentals and hotels in Key West should be known before a trip
is planned to this amazing island in Florida. The Key West Vacation rental is quite affordable. But such a Key
West travel guide will include a lot of things so we can fleetingly mention the islands major highlights. Key West
is a small island with wonderful water activities. From fishing to encounter with dolphins to snorkeling to scuba diving to
Kayaking to parasailing- this place has everything to make your water experience priceless. It has amazing bars, restaurants, and museums.
Water sports at Key West are extremely exciting and thrilling. Sand Key and Rock Key are very popular places for
divers. A lot of people go for kiteboarding in Smathers Beach which is full of beautiful palm trees and is
Key Wests largest public beach. Another great beach is Bahia Honda State Park Beach which has crystal clear water. Dry
Tortugas is a national park with 250 fish species and has been a favourite spot for many divers and snorkelers
for decades. This park offers a great view of birds during spring. Coral reefs can be explored in glass bottom
boats in the islands diverse marine life and many tourist love reef fishing. Jet Ski rentals will make your sparkling
water exploration even more spectacular. A Key West vacations will make your experience memorable and delightful. This water paradise has
beautiful museums and historical places to visit epaggelmatikos odigos evias. euboia Fort Zachary Taylor is another tourist attraction.
Key West has one of the most beautiful sunset views in the world and people love celebrating the sunset at
Mallory Square. All literature lovers would not want to miss the Hemingway House. Hemingway wrote some of his novels while
living in this house in the 1930s. Another place to visit is the Key West Cemetery which is famous for
its beautiful landscape and incredible architecture. Kids will be delighted to see amazing sea creatures in the Key West Aquarium.
Key West vacation packages will include all these things. With all these great attractions and activities nobody would want to
miss this exotic place.

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A passport is very similar to a driver's license in the United States. It is an globally recognized document, typically
used for international travel, verifying who you are and where you're from. Most countries require a valid passport to enter
or exit. All countries issue their own globally recognized passports, the US included. The U. S. Department of State is
the division of the government with the authority to grant, issue and verify United States passports. To apply for a
new passport, you'll need some documentation proving who you are and some time to go apply. Recent changes in the
passport regulations require that most applicants must appear in person to apply for one. US citizens that have never received
a passport before should bring a certified birth certificate; current and valid driver's license, government or military ID; two passport
photos that meet the requirements below and fees of $97 plus optional $60 expedited service. Children under 17 years old
are required to hold a passport for most foreign travel. Children under 14 are required to have consent of either
both parents' or guardians' to apply for a passport. For children born in the United States, a birth certificate, two
photos and the fees are all that will be needed. Parents or guardians will need to show proof of citizenship
and identity, like a valid passport, birth certificate or driver's license. Children or adults born outside the US will need
to obtain a foreign birth certificate, report of birth abroad, certification of birth abroad or an adoption decree. Photos for
passports are required to be 2x2 inches. They must be identical, taken within the past 6 months, be in color
with the full face, front view showing on a white background. The face must be between 1 and 1 3/8
inches from the chin to the top of the head. Hats, headgear and uniforms except religious dress word daily may
not be worn. Prescription glasses (not sunglasses) or wigs worn as part of everyday attire may be worn if they
are not obstructive. To find a passport location near you, visit travel. state. gov and click on "Passports" then "Where
to Apply for a Passport". It typically takes between two and six weeks to receive a passport once it's been
issued. After you received your valid passport, you won't have to worry about expiration for a full ten years. Renewal
of your passport is easier, quicker and less expensive than the original issuance. You are eligible to renew your passport
if you have received it within 15 years, it is not damaged, were older than 16 when it was last
issued and still have the same name or documentation for a legal name change. To renew your passport, you must
submit a completed application, two identical passport photos, the fee of $67 and your current, valid, not-mutilated passport. Expedited service
is an additional $60. Renewals are usually processed and returned within two or three weeks. You can check the status
of a new or renewed passport by going to travel. state. gov, clicking "Passports" then "Online Application Status Check". You'll
input your name, date of birth and the last four digits of your social security number. Electronic passports are in
the works in the U. S. The electronic passport, "e-passport", will be very similar to the current paper passport. The
addition of a small integrated computer chip on the back cover and a digital photograph will provide a number of
additional benefits. First, the data stored will be much more difficult to penetrate and alter. Second, the digital photo will
allow for biometric comparison through facial recognition technology. Additional anti-fraud security features will also be included on the e-passport. Traditional
paper passports will still be accepted through their full period of validity. Regardless of where your travel will be taking
you, it is always a good idea to carry your valid, current passport with you. When things go astray, whether
in Mexico, Malaysia or anywhere in between, your passport is your ticket to receive protections and rights you are due
in that country. Keep it with you as you would your driver's license in the US. When are you required
to have a passport If you travel to Afghanistan, Antigua, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belgium, Belize, Brazil, Cambodia, Chili,
China, Cook Island, Costa Rica, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Ethiopia, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti,
Hungary, Iceland, India, Iraq, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Korea, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan,
Panama, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom / Great Britain, Venezuela, Vietnam and
the British Virgin Islands, a passport (and possibly a visa) will be required. For air travel to Aruba, the Bahamas,
Bermuda, Canada, the Cayman Islands, Grenada, Jamaica, Mexico, Montserrat, Puerto Rico, St. Kitts-Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines,
the Turks and Caicos Islands as well as the US Virgin Islands beginning in 2007, a passport will be required
but hasn't been in previous years. Special passports are issued for diplomats or those traveling on behalf of the US
government. These are issued for no-fee and are only valid for travel when on official business. Military personnel should contact
their installation office. epaggelmatikos odigos euboias Federal employees should contact their Agency headquarters. Peace Corps officers should contact their
travel office and Department of State personnel should contact their Bureau Executive or Personnel Technician. As you enter foreign countries
your passport will be stamped. As you exit, the Customs department of the US will verify where you've been, how
long you were there and what items you have to declare (for taxation purposes. ) The stamps are often considered
the greatest souvenir of an international trip. When venturing outside of the United States, always keep your passport on your
person. Even if you are required to check all of your baggage, keep your passport with you. Should you lose
your passport while in a foreign country, contact the Travel Department of the US Government at 202. 955. 0430 or
the US Embassy in the country you are in.

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It would be very difficult to change the traffic directionality in Ireland because of the heavy traffic and the amount
of cars -1. 8 million - on Irish roads. Although driving a rental car on the left side of the
road is as safe as driving on the right side. There are a couple of basic things to remember. If
you are familiar with them, you can just relax and enjoy your driving holiday. Here are a few driving tips
when you drive a rental car in Ireland. If you never drove right hand drive car before, book a car
with automatic transmission. This would ease driving, and you don't have to worry about changing gear with left hand. Before
you hit the road, get familiar with the car's controls and equipments. When you sit in a right-hand drive car,
the car's controls are exactly at the same place as in a left-hand drive car. Pedals from right to left
are accelerator pedal, brake pedal, clutch pedal (if it is a manual car). The hand brake lever is on your
left. Take a look at the speedometer too. In 2005 the measurement of speed limits on Irish roads was changed
from miles per hour to kilometres per hour. The speedometer measures in km/h only or both in km/h and mph,
but km/h is pre-dominant. evia Take your car around the block at Dublin Airport, or drive a few minutes
in the rental company's car park. When you are familiar with your rental car, hit the Irish roads. Keep always
left! Many car hire companies put a small sticker saying "keep left" on the dashboard. After a couple of days
you will definitely get used to driving on the left side epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. So don't be afraid to
drive in Ireland. Enjoy your holiday to the full. Discover the spectacular natural beauty and the ancient history. As the
Irish say "Turas maith" - Bon Voyage ! For further information on car hire at Dublin Airport, please visit our
site: www. epaggelmatikos odigos evias reservacar-dublinairport. com.

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Norm Goldman, Editor of Sketchandtravel. com and Bookpleasures. com is excited to have as a guest, world- wide Paris expert,
Thirza Vallois. Thirza is the author of the three volumes of "Around and About Paris", and another excellent book," Romantic
Paris". Thirza has lived in Paris for the past 40 years and holds several post-graduate degrees from La Sorbonne. She
contributes to television and radio and has appeared on PBS, BBC, The Travel Channel, Discovery, CNN, The French Cultural Channel,
among others. She also writes for The Financial Times, United Airlines' Hemispheres, Cond Nast Traveller, among others. She is the
author of Three Perfect Days in Paris, aired as a film on all United Airlines international flights and on television
throughout the world. The article has won her the first award of NATJA (the North American Travel Journalists' Association). Thirza
has also contributed the Paris entry of the latest edition of The Encarta Encyclopaedia. Thirza is also an expert on
the Aveyron area in southern France. During the past several years she has devoted much of her time to exploring
and studying this region of France. She is now completing a new book on this last hidden region of France,
to be published in 2006. Thirza has also informed me that she has been travelling extensively in the USA, especially
to California, about which she has written a couple of articles, with more to follow Today, Thirza will be discussing
with us why Paris is so romantic Good day Thirza and thank you for accepting to be interviewed by sketchandtravel.
com and bookpleasures. com. Norm: Thirza, could you tell us something about yourself, how you started as a travel author
and writer, how many travel books have your written, and why have you chosen to write about Paris Thirza: A
long time ago, when I was still a child, and travelling was still the privilege of the "happy enlightened few",
I happened to be blessed with an exceptional mother who believed that the best school was life itself and that
the best way to embrace life was by travelling. My exposure therefore started at a very young age, as did
my love for writing, through which I expressed myself the way one does through painting, singing, playing an instrument, dancing.
. . . I never intended to become a writer, it was just part of me. And I never chose
to write about Paris. It just happened, and for two specific reasons looking back with hindsight. Being a savvy traveller,
it upset me to see how most visitors to Paris (and any other place), do it the wrong way, using
directory-like guidebooks that make them go through all the endless lists of touristy "musts", rather than point them to the
"real" place, which is the city itself. It is only through an in-depth exploration and the understanding of a place
that one can make the most of one's visit, and that's what my books "Around and About Paris" are all
about. Like all forms of self-expression, there is always an element of therapy behind the motivation, and I certainly needed
to do my own therapy regarding Paris when the idea of writing about Paris began to gestate in my mind,
back in the 1980s. Paris has changed dramatically since, but in those days it was an exasperating place, inhabited by
very difficult people, to say the least, and my feelings for it were far from the phony "I love Paris
in the spring time" picture postcard cultivated by Hollywood. It was really a love and hate passion, and I needed
to understand my own heart, which could only happen through understanding the city. It is the combination of the above
that gave birth to my 3-volume series, "Around and About Paris". As for "Romantic Paris", it was their natural extension
in a way. Once I provided my reader with all the meaty stuff, it was time to relax, enjoy and
feast, and who does it better than lovers It was a book written for lovers, past, present, and future, for
whom Paris, more than any other city I can think of, has been designed by the gods. This also answers
your other question. I have so far written four books on Paris. I have actually written a fifth book on
Paris, targeting children, but have never pursued its publication (to my regret), having embarked on my new project, my book
on the Aveyron which is now more than two thirds done. Norm:Can you explain to our audience why Paris is
among the top romantic venues in the world Thirza:Everyone asks me this same question, on every interview. The answer I
give is always the same, and best resumed in the introduction to "Romantic Paris". Rather than paraphrase, let me quote
directly from my book:"For decades I tried to figure out why Paris is shrouded in such mystique. Granted, walks at
night along the Seine are enchanting, but that alone cannot explain why the very mention of Paris had always conjured
up tales of romance, well before it was blessed with gas or electricity, well before its exquisitely lit street-corners were
replicated the world over in black-and-white print. After all, medieval Paris was a dark den of filth, reeking with nauseous
stench, and the two sinister prison fortresses that jutted out of its skyline could hardly have been conducive to romance.
Not to mention the 32 rotting corpses dangling in the offing when the royal gallows was used to full capacity.
Yet the myth has been perpetuated for a good thousand years. I racked my brains, I dug into the past,
I travelled into my own psyche looking for an answer, but I came back empty-handed. There simply is no answer.
There lies the beauty of the enigma. Paris is poetry, Paris is mystery, Paris is beauty-an exasperating decoy that never
quite delivers, all the more compelling for its imperfection, the archetypal reservoir of all our passions. . . . "Norm:If
you had to choose six unique romantic venues in Paris, where would they be and whyThirza:Very tough question, and it
sometimes depends on the season or time of day or night, because "romantic" implies seclusion. *Definitely the two western tips
of the two central islands, Ile de la Cit and Ile Saint-Louis, but down the steps, at water level, and
in the case of Ile Saint-Louis, preferably after dark. *The tiny place de Frstemberg, near the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prs: it
is a rare jewel after dark, but is also quite heavenly in the morning, when one can meanwhile take in
the delightful little Delacroix Museum. *Place Dauphine, on the western side of Ile de la Cit, also preferably after dark.
*Buttes Chaumont, which has all the ingredients of a Brahms symphony that would have appealed to the likes of Lord
Byron: a grotto, a dramatic waterfall, a lake with weeping willows, sheer cliffs topped by a Temple de l'Amour-what better
place for a lovers' kiss with eastern Paris spread like a carpet at your feet! * Palais Royal (the home
of writer Colette and Jean Cocteau), in early morning, before the arrival of the crowds, or at night time, after
they have departed. * Montmartre, especially on the little frequented side streets, again in the early hours of the morning,
or after dark. Norm:Could you describe to our audience six unique wedding venues in Paris to celebrate a marriage, and
explain why you would consider these venues to be most uniqueThirza: Once more the choice is tough, so I am
trying to be as eclectic as I can, to match people's different tastes. evia *Without any shadow of doubt,
my first choice would go to a cruise boat on the river Seine. These come in different categories and different
price ranges, my favourite fleet being "Les Yachts de Paris". Nothing equals in terms of urban beauty and glamour the
city's river views, even more so when seen from the water euboia. Try to prolong your festivities into the
night so as to enjoy the splendour of the floodlighting. Les Yachts de Paris10, quai Henri IV, 75004Tel: 01 44
54 14 70 *At a price, every monument of Paris is for hire, even the Chteau of Versailles. If I
were to hire one of them (or just part of one) for my wedding, I would probably go for the
Jacquemart-Andr Museum, because as the one-time home of the famous art collectors Edouard Andr and Nlie Jacquemart, it has a
private feel,to a certain extent, despite its palatial glamour, which makes it an ideal venue for a wedding occasion. The
couple's fabulous art collection is on permanent display on the magnificent premises of the museum. Muse Jacquemart-Andr158, Boulevard Haussmann, 75008*Countrified
weddings are always appealing, and the Bois de Boulogne is as countrified as you can get within the boundaries of
Paris. Le Pr Catelan offers luxury and refinement amidst beautiful green surroundings, combined with the the renowned Le Ntre's top-quality
catering. Le Pr CatelanBois de BoulogneRoute de Suresnes, 75016Tel 01 44 14 41 14 *If you wish to have it
countrified while staying in central Paris, you can opt for the discreet magnificence of the peach-coloured Laurent, in the lower
gardens of the Champs-Elyses, and still enjoy the leafy surroundings of one of the city's most prestigious neighbourhoods (the presidential
residence is across the street). Make sure to hire a dining room that comes with a terrace. Le Laurent41, avenue
Gabriel, 75008Tel: 01 42 25 00 39*There was once an excellent film by Chabrol, Le charme discret de la bourgeoisie.
That kind of charm, which was first and foremost that of the old aristocracy, was beautifully captured by Marcel Proust.
It still lingers on Faubourg Saint Germain in the 7th arrondissement, notably in the 18th century townhouse, now the home
of the celebrated Ecole Polytechnique alumni, where many of the nation's creme de la creme elite were trained. La Maison
des Polytechniciens12, rue de Poitiers75007 ParisTl: 01 49 54 74 74 *The avenue d'Ina, in the plush neighbourhood of the
16th arrondissement, is home to a magnificent town mansion from the late 19th century, decorated in traditional, period French style
and overlooking a beautiful garden. Ideal for a wedding in grand style. La Maison des Arts et Mtiers9bis avenue d'Ina75116
ParisTel: 01 40 69 27 00Norm: If you are planning to have a destination wedding in Paris, how far in
advance should you prepare for the wedding, and where would you go to find out about the legal requirements Thirza:
There is a strict separation between state and church in France (see the recent headlines about the Islamic veil. .
. . . ). This is important to understand because only civil marriage is recognised by French law. It is
celebrated by the Mayor of the arrondissement where one of the spouses resides, and the ceremony takes place in the
Salle de Marriage of the Mairie of that same arrondissement. There is a legal procedure to go by and you
will need to seek legal advice for that. If you are considering a civil marriage in France, a lawyer is
the person to consult, obviously (although I do know how it works, this is not the right forum to expand
on administrative issues). You may also require the service of a notaire, should you be dealing with property issues. Your
lawyer can refer you to a notaire. On the other hand, you don't need to be a French resident for
the celebration of your religious or non-religious ceremony, nor do you need any legal advice for that. However, you should
definitely prepare for it as early as possible because, as they say, "the early bird catches the prey". Certainly months
ahead, if not a year, should you plan your wedding to take place in spring or early summer. Norm: If
you had to choose three of the most romantic restaurants in Paris, which ones would you choose and why Thirza:
* If by romantic we imply secluded cosiness which is what lovers usually seek, and since I haven't yet focused
on winter, the Coupe Chou comes first to my mind, located in an ancient medieval house in the Latin Quarter,
a few steps away from the Sorbonne. It's all dark nooks and crannies, which are graced with glowing log fires.
If only it could snow more often in Paris than it does these days! It would then be altogether fit
for a fairy tale. As an extra bonus, this is a medium-range restaurant pricewise. Le Coupe-Chou9, rue de Lanneau, 75005Tel:
01 46 33 68 69* Le Beauvilliers in Montmartre, on the other hand, is a pricy place, but as good
as it comes and cheaper than others that fall into that category. Here you step into the romantic splendour of
the Second Empire in the heart of real Montmartre, just a few minutes'walk from the differently (yet equally) romantic and
cottagy Lapin Agile cabaret, where I would head after dinner, for a night filled with old French songs, sketches and
hearty laughter. Le Beauvilliers52, rue Lamarck, 75018Tel: 01 42 54 54 42* Laprouse, a pricy place too, cannot be overlooked
either, its scintillating setting having been the rendezvous of Venus's protegs. There is even a private boudoir-lounge where the two
of you can dine alone undisturbed. It comes with elaborate, dainty decorations and is named La Belle Otero after the
famous, fiery courtesan. If you are worried for your good reputation, note that France's most honoured members of literati also
dined here regularly, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, George Sand among them. Remember that the French have a sophisticated, unpuritanical approach
to love. Laprouse,51, quai des Grands-Augustins, 75006Tel: 01 43 26 68 04Norm: If a couple were planning to honeymoon in
Paris, and were not sure which area to stay in, which three areas of the city would you choose and
why Thirza: Saint-Germain-des-Prs/Luxembourg area, Paris at its most sophisticated, colourful and arty, lined with extraordinary boutiques that will be hard
to resist. It boasts a greater number of "htels de charme" than any other part of the city, which speaks
for itself, and that's exactly the kind of hotel a honeymooning couple would choose to stay at, short of choosing
one of the city's luxury hotels. The Marais is similar in spirit but is less spacious, and doesn't have a
park. It also has several "htels de charme", though not quite so many as Saint-Germain. Ile Saint-Louis because it is
a self-contained miniature of romance, lined with boutiques and eating places of all sorts, and conveniently located for every part
of Paris. It has four "htels de charme" to choose among and is within a few minutes' walk from both
the Marais, on the Right Bank, and the Latin Quarter on the Left Bank. Norm: Is Paris a safe city
to visit Thirza: No city and no place on earth is fullproof. As I am writing this interview South East
Asia is subjected to a deluvian tragedy, all the way to the eastern shores of Africa. Paris is as safe
as a big city can be, but one should always use one's common sense and avoid carrying cash and other
valuables when going out. Pickpocketing is rife, and I have been victim to it many a time myself- A brief
moment of distraction and your wallet is gone. Leave all your valuables in your safe, and carry a photocopy of
your passport rather than the original document. Watch out even at the airport and hold on to your handbag in
all public places (including your taxi: some delinquents may open the door and snatch your bag at a traffic light
or in a traffic jam. They often operate on motorcycles and that has happened to me too). Be sensible but
not paranoid. Norm: When is the best time to visit Paris from the point of view of climate, crowds, travel
deals, etc Obviously spring time is unique. Good weather is never guaranteed though, no matter what time of year, but
should the gods be with you, then spring, by definition, is the season of romance, and an early feel of
spring can even be detected as early as on Valentine's. I personally have a distaste for July and August, especially
from the middle of July on. Most Parisians are replaced by tourists, often in organised crowds, and it just isn't
it. This can also happen at weekends during spring because Europeans nowadays are very fond of weekend city breaks. Fall
is a beautiful time of year, often accompanied by a lingering Indian summer, which the golden beauty of the trees
contribute to enhance. Strange as it may seem, I find Paris particularly romantic in winter, when the leafless trees allow
you to enjoy the architecture of its buildings. After dark the city is altogether magical,as its street lamps don it
with an amber light. It can be cold, but all you have to do is dress accordingly and make the
most of the fact that you are likely to be alone out there and the entire city will belong to
you and your sweetheart, as you stroll through the streets or by the river into the late hours of the
night. At Christmas time you will also enjoy the festive decorations, which, it being Paris, tend to be exquisitely elegant
and tasteful. As for travel deals, they are the same all over the world. Prices shoot up in the summer
and plummet in the low season. Norm: How easy or difficult is it to get around Paris Thirza: It is
extremely easy to get around Paris. Public transportation (buses, mtro and RER express trains) is very efficient and many lines
run beyond midnight. Taxis are easily available except on weekend nights. They also get grabbed into thin air as soon
as it starts raining. However, Paris is regularly disrupted by protest and other demonstrations (the French thrive on them), which
can paralyse the city, usually from 2:00 pm on, often with no forewarning. It is therefore good to stay in
central Paris so that you can make your way back to your hotel on foot, should you experience one of
those typically French "happenings". Norm: Is there anything else that you wish to add about Romantic Paris that we have
not discussedThirza: Most of the recommendations in this interview are on the pricy side, because we are speaking here of
a special event and moment in your life. My book "Romantic Paris" has pages and pages of tips and recommendations
of things to be done and enjoyed on all budgets, including low budgets. Paris can truly be enjoyed romantically on
a shoestring. The best of Paris is strolling through its streets, and that costs little or nothing. I have designed
several romantic walks for you in "Romantic Paris". That's over and above the scores of walks woven into "Around and
About Paris". Put on your most comfortable footgear and venture into the city, including in the heart of winter. Soak
it all up. And try, just once, to stay up all night, so that you can enjoy a sunrise either
from the river, or from the foot of the Sacr Coeur. Thanks once again and best of luck on all
of your future endeavours including your future book on Aveyron.

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With its capital at Gortyn, Crete became, with Cyrene in North Africa, part of a joint praetorian province. It was
administered by a proconsul who governed with a provincial council and a system of magistrates again known as Kosmoi. Knossos
was made a Roman colony at a date still disputed, but not later than 27 B. C. The island lay
on the route which linked Rome with her Empire in the cast It shared the eastern Mediterranean culture transmitted along
the trade routes and enjoyed from the conquest until the 7C AD an unusual period of peace and prosperity. This
was reflected in large, spread out settlements in low-lying or coastal areas such as Gortyn, Knossos or Ierapytna (lerapetra). Significantly,
Lato on its almost impregnable hill near Kritsa gave way in importance to Lato pros Kamara at modern Ayios Nicholas
on the Bay of Mirabello. The settlement pattern came to include isolated villas and farms unknown in warlike Hellenistic times.
Many sites such as Mokhlos were inhabited for the first time since the Bronze Age. It speaks volumes for the
skill of the Roman Empire's colonial administration that. evia for perhaps the only time in Crete's history, foreign rule
was not accompanied by a perpetual state of rebellion. After AD 330 historians refer variously to a Late Roman or
Early Byzantine period. The triumph of Christianity and the foundation of Constantinople by the Emperor Constantine the Great mark the
beginning of the Byzantine era in Greece. With the division of the Roman Empire in 395 it was natural for
Crete to become part of the eastern sphere of influence, looking to the new imperial capital on the Bosphorus, a
beacon of European civilisation during the centuries when the western empire was in decline. The architects of the earliest churches
on Crete followed the prevailing practice by adopting the form of the basilica, a standard Roman public edifice divided into
three aisles by interior colonnades; one or three apses were added at the east end to form the sanctuary. while
at the west end a portico (narthex) extended across the whole width of the building. The sites of some 70
of these churches are known or suspected, and the great majority are dated to between the mid-5C and mid-6C. The
best preserved, and architecturally the most sophisticated, is Ayios Titos at Gortyn, but many other basilica sites have been excavated,
for example at Panormos on the north coast. Vizari in the Amari valley and high in the hills above Goulediana,
south of Rethymnon: the church at Vizari is interesting because it dates from the late 8C, not long before the
Arab conquest.

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But there are many reasons why this overlooked camping destination should be higher on their list of places to go.
Quality Campsites and Mobile Homes The campsites in Italy offer you choice, reliability and comfort as well as hotel style
facilities. Spacious tents and mobile homes with en-suite and cooking facilities are available in a range of locations. You also
have a huge amount of choice as to where you take your Italian camping holiday; you can go to areas
of breathtaking natural beauty, such as Lake Garda, or decide on a more city based break, camping within easy driving
distance of Rome, Venice, or Milan. We suggest trying the Marina di Venezia, our favourite campsite in Italy. Close to
the Venetian lagoon itself, the Marina di Venezia is one of the largest and best campsites in this area of
Italy. It has direct access to a beach, a brand new swimming pool and fountain complex as well as plenty
family activities to keep everyone happy. The Weather As a nation where it seems to rain a lot of the
time, many British people believe that Europe must be the same way epaggelmatikos odigos euboias. However, Southern Italy has
weather similar to the rest of the Mediterranean and parts of central and northern Italy are on average two degrees
hotter than the UK! In the far north it becomes much cooler, but since the far north of Italy is
dominated by the Alps it makes this location ideal for walking or other sporting activities. The Things to Do There's
a huge amount of things to do when you holiday in a tent or a mobile home in Italy. If
you choose the Marina di Venezia site I talked about earlier, you have Venice right next door. The city has
a long history of culture and extravagance, and has some of the best known architecture on the planet. The floating
city is a maze of waterways, bridges and pontoons and has something for everyone. Huge historic buildings such as St.
evia Mark's Basilica and La Fenice opera house will delight architecture buffs, and the scale and construction of Venetian
building on such uncertain foundations amazes all visitors. Venice is incredible at any time, but to see the epitome of
Venetian life you have to go during "Carnovale" or carnival time. Throughout February the city bustles with parties and events,
a key factor being the masked balls and revels which have an ancient tradition there since the thirteenth century in
Italy. The buzz of city life is heightened to a pitch and visitors can join in with the colour, sights
and splendour of this amazing tradition. If you choose Marina di Venezia (or any of the other great campsites in
Italy) you are bound to enjoy yourself. The Italian lifestyle, the change of pace, the opportunity and the enjoyment to
be found on a camping holiday in Italy are immense and not to be missed. So if all of this
sounds like your type of break, why not consider camping in a tent or mobile home in Italy this summer
Lorraine Waddell is the brand and advertising manager of Canvas Holidays, one of the leading European camping and mobile home
holiday operators in the UK. With over 40 years of experience, Canvas offer tailor made holidays to the best Campsites
in Italy, as well as to France, Spain, Germany and many more sites across 9 European countries. .