Switzerland ( Schweiz ). A voyage to Switzerland, Europe - Bern, Geneva, Zürich, Interlaken, Lausanne, St Moritz...

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Ys_O8lpZwc/Uj11YMfWpdI/AAAAAAAA11M/F0P55r5eYU8/s1600/Switzerland+75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Ys_O8lpZwc/Uj11YMfWpdI/AAAAAAAA11M/F0P55r5eYU8/s640/Switzerland+75.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeP5511urkk/Uj2tys0d0tI/AAAAAAAA11w/xsOTQvld4xI/s1600/Switzerland+78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeP5511urkk/Uj2tys0d0tI/AAAAAAAA11w/xsOTQvld4xI/s640/Switzerland+78.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXy0iwUDzqY/Uj1oinxfZdI/AAAAAAAA10g/HECY7MMiIUk/s1600/Switzerland+70.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXy0iwUDzqY/Uj1oinxfZdI/AAAAAAAA10g/HECY7MMiIUk/s640/Switzerland+70.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SD5KW5Uzpmw/Uj2tyom2YbI/AAAAAAAA110/l6bi88G-6QY/s1600/Switzerland+79.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SD5KW5Uzpmw/Uj2tyom2YbI/AAAAAAAA110/l6bi88G-6QY/s200/Switzerland+79.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KKg5MGRL2m4/TyqroXHBeyI/AAAAAAAABp0/rkT0Ku30PtY/s1600/Switzerland+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KKg5MGRL2m4/TyqroXHBeyI/AAAAAAAABp0/rkT0Ku30PtY/s200/Switzerland+2.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4VofoIe3wM/Uj11W0PClCI/AAAAAAAA108/GI2D3pFilZE/s1600/Switzerland+72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="121" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P4VofoIe3wM/Uj11W0PClCI/AAAAAAAA108/GI2D3pFilZE/s200/Switzerland+72.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="destinationMapLink clearfix"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a> </div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4NM4wMb6-6k/Tyqrvpl1kfI/AAAAAAAABqM/KCv7CBThNdc/s1600/Switzerland+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4NM4wMb6-6k/Tyqrvpl1kfI/AAAAAAAABqM/KCv7CBThNdc/s320/Switzerland+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>If you could travel through only one European country, which might you choose? <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359845">Italy</a>? <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359219">France</a>? <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359343">Germany</a>? How about a taste of three in one? That can only mean Switzerland!<br /><div class="mpuWrapper " id="mpuInContent"><div class="mpuInner"><div class="adContainer" id="adContainer_mpuInContent"></div></div></div>Known as a summer and winter sports paradise (just look at those glistening white 4000m-plus Alpine peaks and glittering lakes), Switzerland is where people first skied for fun. Illustrious names evoke all the romance and glamorous drama of the mountain high life: <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360830">Zermatt</a>, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360819">St Moritz</a>, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360813">Interlaken</a>, Gstaad, the Jungfrau, Verbier and more. Cities like <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360817">Geneva</a> (the most cosmopolitan), <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360831">Zürich</a> (the most outrageous), <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360825">Basel</a> and <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360822">Lausanne</a> heave with heady artistic activity and sometimes incendiary nightlife.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ8iskqncO4/Tyqr3hUDhTI/AAAAAAAABqc/SxdKj1DQsEQ/s1600/Switzerland+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BZ8iskqncO4/Tyqr3hUDhTI/AAAAAAAABqc/SxdKj1DQsEQ/s320/Switzerland+3.jpg" width="320" /></a>Beyond the après-ski chic, edelweiss and Heidi lies a complex country of cohabiting cultures. It not only has four languages (Swiss German, French, Italian and Romansch), but the cultural variety to match. You could be chomping on sausages over beer in an oom-pah-pah <i>Stübli</i> one day and pasta over a glass of merlot in a granite <i>grotto</i> the next. And if over-indulgence becomes a problem try one of the country's thermal baths, from Yverdon-les-Bains to Scuol.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HkW9XYbeGFE/Tyqrzoh_4kI/AAAAAAAABqU/mup8J9yHRt0/s1600/Switzerland+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HkW9XYbeGFE/Tyqrzoh_4kI/AAAAAAAABqU/mup8J9yHRt0/s320/Switzerland+6.jpg" width="320" /></a>The grandeur of the finest churches, such as the cathedrals in <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360822">Lausanne</a> and <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360811">Bern</a>, contrasts with sparkling but lesser-known treasures like the frescoes of Müstair or the abbey complex of St Gallen (both World Heritage sites).<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MrLakQIWQR4/TyqrtCR2OQI/AAAAAAAABqE/CYYVnoGcrDs/s1600/Switzerland+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MrLakQIWQR4/TyqrtCR2OQI/AAAAAAAABqE/CYYVnoGcrDs/s640/Switzerland+4.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>The list of enchanting towns is endless: from <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360814">Lucerne</a> with its covered bridge to <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360816">Neuchâtel</a> and its fountains; from Gruyères with its cheese, and Grimentz with its traditional timber houses to the sgraffito-blazoned buildings of Engadine towns like Scuol and Zuoz.<a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a><br />Whether visiting the remotest <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360826">Ticino</a> villages or sampling the finest of <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360829">Valais</a> wines, you'll find Switzerland a chocolate box bursting with unexpected flavours.<a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText">Show in Lonely Planet</span></a><br /><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> More about Switzerland </h3><ul><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/places">Places in Switzerland <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/weather">When to go & weather <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/transport/getting-there-away">Getting there & around <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/practical-information/money-costs">Practical information <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/history">History <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/work-study-volunteering/work">Work & study <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/travel-tips-and-articles">Tips & articles <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/">Hotels</a></li></ul></div><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> Make it happen</h3><ul><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/shopSearch?q=switzerland">Shop for travel guides</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/switzerland/">Search hotels</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/flights.do">Cheap flights</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/insurance.do">Travel insurance</a></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJeJG1X0_GG6tFGSLl5vDW-xMYwx7M3mUXbE1OOHtES-4a9Jp4svqwGle9kZMqQ0RFs-z2iMM0Ag-_mEmENxw0fnzT0klOmVsGs_ez9JgZxLLqhUZHPUwvunEdorl1OxlMMIJoZxiZyZc/s1600/Switzerland+71.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieJeJG1X0_GG6tFGSLl5vDW-xMYwx7M3mUXbE1OOHtES-4a9Jp4svqwGle9kZMqQ0RFs-z2iMM0Ag-_mEmENxw0fnzT0klOmVsGs_ez9JgZxLLqhUZHPUwvunEdorl1OxlMMIJoZxiZyZc/s640/Switzerland+71.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCCJua8EIW9f4xNvbfXtnyEgvxzRI4vUb_V3WTB6_LeGaF441f1KyjRhMUp3tDrTYNYM4SokxCY2LpPUyKm-XKLkZlzoGbSCZJnpGsyzfMGiHxOBmR98KCcqe0hl4HD0KH6V05o7SyR36/s1600/Switzerland+73.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYCCJua8EIW9f4xNvbfXtnyEgvxzRI4vUb_V3WTB6_LeGaF441f1KyjRhMUp3tDrTYNYM4SokxCY2LpPUyKm-XKLkZlzoGbSCZJnpGsyzfMGiHxOBmR98KCcqe0hl4HD0KH6V05o7SyR36/s640/Switzerland+73.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ozhj2FQDVFs/Uj2tysoNsUI/AAAAAAAA11s/CxHrhbsUPZ0/s1600/Switzerland+80.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ozhj2FQDVFs/Uj2tysoNsUI/AAAAAAAA11s/CxHrhbsUPZ0/s640/Switzerland+80.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMtivOcK5eQSHauVJwOzkSsA7hveXXsmUX5Y6jJ-NL_VJqrr_SgEEfG1TFi0BxYz3-_3-qcpy-fdiavTPTzHpnfVN5jPHJhgu6BR5sfHmF5UakAYDmiXkXWnxAT-VhuZMRvg4mh9NNK8r/s1600/Switzerland+74.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMtivOcK5eQSHauVJwOzkSsA7hveXXsmUX5Y6jJ-NL_VJqrr_SgEEfG1TFi0BxYz3-_3-qcpy-fdiavTPTzHpnfVN5jPHJhgu6BR5sfHmF5UakAYDmiXkXWnxAT-VhuZMRvg4mh9NNK8r/s640/Switzerland+74.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><ul></ul><ul></ul></div><h3> </h3></div>

Switzerland ( Schweiz ). A voyage to Switzerland, Europe - Bern, Geneva, Zürich, Interlaken, Lausanne, St Moritz...

If you could travel through only one European country, which might you choose? Italy ? France ? Germany ? How about a taste of three...

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Costa Rica ( República de Costa Rica ). A voyage to Costa Rica, Central America - spot wildlife, cloud forest, sandy beach...

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FVDe-sujvWA/TyqnErsFhOI/AAAAAAAABoc/aRGwkLFOZrE/s1600/Costa+rica.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FVDe-sujvWA/TyqnErsFhOI/AAAAAAAABoc/aRGwkLFOZrE/s640/Costa+rica.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>  <br /><div class="destinationMapLink clearfix"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a> </div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZYlXeb1S74/TyqnH6mMEjI/AAAAAAAABos/dMDFDsiQHJk/s1600/Costa+rica+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZYlXeb1S74/TyqnH6mMEjI/AAAAAAAABos/dMDFDsiQHJk/s320/Costa+rica+5.jpg" width="320" /></a>Mention Costa Rica and people think paradise. The country’s Disneylike cast of <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/wildlife/overview" target="_self">creatures</a> – ranging from howler monkeys to toucans – are populous and relatively easy to spot. The waves are prime, the beauty is staggering and the sluggish pace seductive. A peaceful oasis in a tumultuous region, this tiny nation draws 1.5 million visitors every year.</div><div class="MsoNormal">What’s on tap? The question is what isn’t? Active travelers can surf, hike, snorkel and <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/travel-tips-and-articles/42/1544" target="_self">spot wildlife</a> for starters. The incredibly varied topography means you can cruise the <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/northwestern-costa-rica/monteverde-and-santa-elena/sights/453487" target="_self">cloud forest</a> one day, visit an <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/northwestern-costa-rica/la-fortuna-and-around/sights/467488" target="_self">active volcano</a> the next, and finish relaxing on a <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/travel-tips-and-articles/42/1543" target="_self">hot sandy beach</a>. Adrenaline junkies have a <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/travel-tips-and-articles/42/1545" target="_self">myriad ways to make mothers worry</a> – among them zipping through canopy lines hundreds of meters long and riding the rough surf of the Pacific. Choice and variety name the game.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fQRVcmeWeuA/TyqnN96HEiI/AAAAAAAABpE/0q2tsZwR1QQ/s1600/Costa+rica+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fQRVcmeWeuA/TyqnN96HEiI/AAAAAAAABpE/0q2tsZwR1QQ/s320/Costa+rica+9.jpg" width="320" /></a>Of course, the frenzy to snatch up a piece of Shangri-la has its consequences. Since the boom, tourism is more chic and less cheap. Classic destinations are now crowded destinations and local culture is often lost or cast aside. Lucky for Costa Rica that its do-gooder fans, ranging from ecologists to proud Ticos (Costa Ricans), are vocal and vigilant. Nature here suffers its blows, like everywhere, but at least it is taken seriously.<a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"> </span></a><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText">Show in Lonely Planet</span></a></div><br /><b>Ready to go? Our recommended tours make it easy:</b><br /><ul class="inBody"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oVnv8qin2sc/TyqnJ5x3VvI/AAAAAAAABo0/Ogkk2PUvGlg/s1600/Costa+rica+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oVnv8qin2sc/TyqnJ5x3VvI/AAAAAAAABo0/Ogkk2PUvGlg/s320/Costa+rica+7.jpg" width="320" /></a><li>Cycle<a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/central-america/tours/active/cycle-nicaragua-costa?lpaffil=fbta1"> Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama</a></li><li>Whitewater Raft on the<a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/northwestern-costa-rica/activities/river-rafting-tubing/whitewater-rafting-on?lpaffil=fbta1"> Corobici River </a></li><li>Go on a daytrip to the<a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/northwestern-costa-rica/activities/day-trips/costa-rican-wildlife?lpaffil=fbta1"> Palo Verde National Park</a></li></ul>Want more? Browse all our recommended<a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/tours?lpaffil=fbta1"> Costa Rica tours</a><br /><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> More about Costa Rica </h3><ul><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4fiTyRSjAQ/TyqnMOmTPGI/AAAAAAAABo8/gMsSTrxSI1s/s1600/Costa+rica+8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c4fiTyRSjAQ/TyqnMOmTPGI/AAAAAAAABo8/gMsSTrxSI1s/s400/Costa+rica+8.jpg" width="400" /></a><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/places">Places in Costa Rica <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/weather">When to go & weather <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/transport/getting-there-away">Getting there & around <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/practical-information/money-costs">Practical information <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/history">History <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/work-study-volunteering/work">Work & study <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/wildlife/overview">Wildlife <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/travel-tips-and-articles">Tips & articles <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/">Hotels</a></li></ul></div><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> Make it happen</h3><ul><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/shopSearch?q=costa+rica">Shop for travel guides</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/costa-rica/">Search hotels</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/flights.do">Cheap flights</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/insurance.do">Travel insurance</a></li></ul></div><div class="mpuWrapper " id="mpuSponsorLrg"><div class="mpuInner"><div class="adContainer" id="adContainer_mpuSponsorLrg"><a href="http://ad.doubleclick.net/click;h=v8/3c0f/0/0/%2a/m;44306;0-0;0;56852950;33734-479/303;0/0/0;;%7Eokv=;ctt=central-america;cnty=costa-rica;thm=adventure-travel;tnm=overview;tnm=sponsor-large;rsi=J08781_10159;rsi=J08781_10291;rsi=J08781_10287;rsi=J08781_10052;rsi=J08781_10205;%7Esscs=%3f" target="_top"><img alt="Click here to find out more!" border="0" src="http://s0.2mdn.net/viewad/817-grey.gif" /></a> </div></div></div><h3> </h3></div>

Costa Rica ( República de Costa Rica ). A voyage to Costa Rica, Central America - spot wildlife, cloud forest, sandy beach...

  Mention Costa Rica and people think paradise. The country’s Disneylike cast of creatures – ranging from howler monkeys to toucans...

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Hungary ( Magyarország ). A voyage to Hungary, Europe - Budapest, Lake Balaton...

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="destinationMapLink clearfix"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscHYqdwRjGPNgBlTg6R9igNhi2MAZtUNUGqh6iM_Lbk-Jm_d_Oqq-yuLlkkKCdAZKTDIFLzWY7ChMW3ZnS5Mw_1UClXXjKmX9t6vz0fyvtkrsdSqfK4bomD3lN_QBtkC10z__1gfQL3ww/s1600/budapest-picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgscHYqdwRjGPNgBlTg6R9igNhi2MAZtUNUGqh6iM_Lbk-Jm_d_Oqq-yuLlkkKCdAZKTDIFLzWY7ChMW3ZnS5Mw_1UClXXjKmX9t6vz0fyvtkrsdSqfK4bomD3lN_QBtkC10z__1gfQL3ww/s640/budapest-picture.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IUDRq_7mUSE/Tyqh8Od-2lI/AAAAAAAABoU/U8_EX_RRhfc/s1600/Hungary+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IUDRq_7mUSE/Tyqh8Od-2lI/AAAAAAAABoU/U8_EX_RRhfc/s320/Hungary+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>There is no place like Hungary (Magyarország). Situated in the very heart of <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=358537">Europe</a>, this kidney-shaped country can claim a unique place in the continent's soul. Doubters need only listen to the music of Franz Liszt and Béla Bartók, view the romantic Danube River as it dramatically splits <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359522">Budapest</a> in two or taste the nation's unique (and paprika-infused) cuisine to be convinced. Hungary's impact on <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=358537">Europe</a>'s history and development has been far greater than its present size and population would suggest. Hungarians, who call themselves Magyars, speak a language and form a culture unlike any other in the region - a distinction that has been both a source of pride and an obstacle for more than 1100 years.<br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="mpuWrapper " id="mpuInContent"><div class="mpuInner"><div class="adContainer" id="adContainer_mpuInContent"><a href="http://ad.doubleclick.net/click;h=v8/3c0f/0/0/%2a/k;251609923;2-0;0;56529921;4307-300/250;45944103/45961321/1;;%7Eokv=;ctt=europe;cnty=hungary;tnm=overview;rsi=J08781_10159;rsi=J08781_10291;rsi=J08781_10287;rsi=J08781_10052;rsi=J08781_10205;rsi=J08781_10335;rsi=J08781_10337;%7Esscs=%3fhttp://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/?affil=hotelshouse" target="_top"></a> </div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zBBhd3ph9g4/Tyqh0gvAMmI/AAAAAAAABn8/xdpK07vUkVI/s1600/Hungary+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zBBhd3ph9g4/Tyqh0gvAMmI/AAAAAAAABn8/xdpK07vUkVI/s320/Hungary+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Hungary is the best place to enter both Central and Eastern Europe. While some of its neighbours may have more dramatic scenery or older and more important monuments, Hungary abounds in things to see and do, and those with special interests - fishing, horse riding, botany, bird-watching, cycling, thermal spas, Jewish culture - will find a treasure-trove here. Under the old communist regime, most of the government's focus and money went to <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359522">Budapest</a>. As a result, foreign visitors rarely ventured beyond this splendid city on the Danube River, except on a day trip to the Danube Bend or to <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359523">Lake Balaton</a>.<br /><br />These places should be visited, of course, but don't ignore other towns and regions off the beaten track: the <i>tanya világ</i> (farm world) of the Southern Plain, ethnically rich <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359530">Northeastern Hungary</a>, the Villány Hills in Southern Transdanubia covered in vineyards and the traditional Őrség region in the far west. <br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn5wL-JNovk/Tyqh2un0mtI/AAAAAAAABoE/Hsd657xjZ1g/s1600/Hungary+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dn5wL-JNovk/Tyqh2un0mtI/AAAAAAAABoE/Hsd657xjZ1g/s320/Hungary+6.jpg" width="320" /></a>The '90s were not a stellar time for the reborn republic. Its economic development was in limbo and serious economic problems affected all aspects of daily life. Thankfully, those days are past and many now view Hungary, with its intelligent, hard-working populace, and rich and vibrant culture, as the star performer and most interesting destination of the new <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=358537">Europe</a>.<br /><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText">Show in Lonely Planet</span></a><br /><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> More about Hungary </h3><ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTUid366OquwEqdGr6Y55uqi8w0JvspbGnCBEJ5BYnktNWdvKBW2VWAiCARozcHGZZzZPG-PZwmPyLQe3s87jApZ1TDTb-0g4FtpKNRPsKLzdBDZkNbPVxWalw0JaIX0GA_OLcGG5HDQG/s1600/hungary-budapest-door-stone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTUid366OquwEqdGr6Y55uqi8w0JvspbGnCBEJ5BYnktNWdvKBW2VWAiCARozcHGZZzZPG-PZwmPyLQe3s87jApZ1TDTb-0g4FtpKNRPsKLzdBDZkNbPVxWalw0JaIX0GA_OLcGG5HDQG/s400/hungary-budapest-door-stone.jpg" width="300" /></a><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/places">Places in Hungary <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/weather">When to go & weather <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/transport/getting-there-away">Getting there & around <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/practical-information/money-costs">Practical information <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/history">History <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/work-study-volunteering/study">Work & study <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/travel-tips-and-articles">Tips & articles <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/">Hotels</a></li></ul></div><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> Make it happen</h3><ul><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/shopSearch?q=hungary">Shop for travel guides</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/hungary/">Search hotels</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/flights.do">Cheap flights</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/insurance.do">Travel insurance</a></li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhPvvhz8ZJ0/TyqhxKNZY3I/AAAAAAAABns/oMRBGaOgmbo/s1600/Hungary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZhPvvhz8ZJ0/TyqhxKNZY3I/AAAAAAAABns/oMRBGaOgmbo/s640/Hungary.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div class="mpuWrapper " id="mpuSponsorLrg"><div class="mpuInner"><div class="adContainer" id="adContainer_mpuSponsorLrg"></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><h3> </h3></div>

Hungary ( Magyarország ). A voyage to Hungary, Europe - Budapest, Lake Balaton...

There is no place like Hungary (Magyarország). Situated in the very heart of Europe , this kidney-shaped country can claim a unique...

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Top 10 Symbols of Chinese Culture

<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUvZpWVHWZkAicNRTOLLXwrr2ndjWThrkAuzOWmhGFcHi19OEl9pBB2Lm7Ox6BApz4CYRNXWhHEP7fy_x4v86YwpKbv7aGzYb8m5xpBeIWzrv2hZIcf-l8KE9R7Nz3eC6KfCatj6ymYPLy/s1600/china-great-wall-of-china.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704373996405981410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUvZpWVHWZkAicNRTOLLXwrr2ndjWThrkAuzOWmhGFcHi19OEl9pBB2Lm7Ox6BApz4CYRNXWhHEP7fy_x4v86YwpKbv7aGzYb8m5xpBeIWzrv2hZIcf-l8KE9R7Nz3eC6KfCatj6ymYPLy/s320/china-great-wall-of-china.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" /></a>Each nation has characters or symbols that represent its culture. They may be food, famous people, historical landmarks or a certain fashion that have been associated with a particular country. When we come across pictures of Great Wall, giant panda, red lanterns and dumpling, the very first thing that comes to our mind is China because these things are part of Chinese culture. However nowadays Chinese culture is no longer contained in China primarily because there are so called “China towns” in every successful nations. Here are some of the famous cultural symbols of China that represent the nation’s rich and colorful culture.<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Great Wall of China</span> is undoubtedly one of the famous symbols of China. It reflects the Chinese people’s spirit of courage and persistence. In fact, there is an old saying in Chinese that goes “You are a real man until you climb up the Great Wall” which only shows that courage and persistence are intrinsic values of Chinese culture. The magnificent wall winds up and down across deserts, grassland, mountain and plateaus. It features a remarkable piece of engineering making it one of the greatest wonders of the world.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlICSJZNDWLG2QUprEPizUjrVjaKQplehE9sx9cmRPQnxmMolCYWY53CWWaGYtQOCqE1wMBKZ0MRNnL13zcW8QmjI7DFI_vdquQIQxW-ls7NPBkeR1kFtx82APIv93RZN8VR1Rsk8IWtc/s1600/China+Giant+Panda.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704374718250194210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOlICSJZNDWLG2QUprEPizUjrVjaKQplehE9sx9cmRPQnxmMolCYWY53CWWaGYtQOCqE1wMBKZ0MRNnL13zcW8QmjI7DFI_vdquQIQxW-ls7NPBkeR1kFtx82APIv93RZN8VR1Rsk8IWtc/s320/China+Giant+Panda.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>This giant creature with cuddly features is regarded as one of China’s National Treasure. However it is sad to say that <span style="font-weight: bold;">giant panda</span> is on the verge of extinction. At present, there are fewer than 1,000 giant pandas living in the world thus the giant panda also symbolize Eco-environmental conservation. Their cute faces, unusual beauty and grace delight everyone who see them up close. Visitors to China can see this reclusive animal in Sichuan Province's Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.<br /><br />We usually see the massive display of this symbol especially during Chinese New Year. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Red lanterns</span> with Chinese characters make China towns’ street alive and full of energy. People who would like to experience the fun and excitement of Chinese New Year need not go to China, they can secure <a href="http://www.airticketonsale.com/">cheap airfare to Singapore</a> to witness how the Chinese folks drive away bad spirits and attract good fortune. Lanterns play an important and irreplaceable role in Chinese long history and symbolize the brilliant culture of China. The art of making Chinese lanterns is part of traditional culture of Chinese which was inherited from their ancient people and passed from generations to generations. The craft work of lantern is still widely used in current society which can be seen in some happy days such as the Lantern Festival, wedding and celebration ceremonies. Besides, lanterns have some other functions in daily life. For example, at ancient time, when there was no electricity, lanterns were used as a tool of illumination, which brought great convenience to everyday life.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQICgGpQr6IjjT9RnSb-09baYk8EN-BZlG2PzVUQrSkuzvAsMo6vPh8M6ahoalDHF69tk6k-qWsGhFEG8x-ehrRDB2jDxVCkuu-GaNrbb9zdGqA3Yet72wYrbbN5ODGIkzKwbzgkgmeSF/s1600/Beijing+Opera.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704375628731626498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHQICgGpQr6IjjT9RnSb-09baYk8EN-BZlG2PzVUQrSkuzvAsMo6vPh8M6ahoalDHF69tk6k-qWsGhFEG8x-ehrRDB2jDxVCkuu-GaNrbb9zdGqA3Yet72wYrbbN5ODGIkzKwbzgkgmeSF/s320/Beijing+Opera.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 304px;" /></a>An <a href="http://www.airticketonsale.com/promo_fares/beijing.html">airfare to Beijing</a> is worth it when you visit the place because you will surely be amazed of the costumes and make-ups of the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beijing Opera</span>. Each costume is picked and made through high aesthetic standard signifying the Chinese culture of giving importance to detail and beauty. The costumes are graceful, magnificent, elegant, brilliant and most of them are made in handicraft embroidery. Make-ups on the other hand are rich and various, depicting different characters and remarkable images. Beijing Opera is the quintessence of China. As the largest Chinese opera form, it is extolled as 'Oriental Opera'. Having a history of 160 years, it has created many 'firsts' in Chinese dramas: the abundance of repertoires, the number of artists, opera troupes and spectators.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chinese cuisine</span> is quite popular with everyone because of its distinct method and excellent taste. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jiaozi</span> or better known as Chinese Dumpling is one of the Chinese food that is greatly appreciated by foreigners, not only because it is easy to eat but most importantly it has such great flavor that appeal to varying taste buds of different nationalities. Dumplings are one of the major foods that you will often see in the table of Chinese folks during Chinese New Year which they believe bring luck and prosperity.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpKKw0cLpOtId5NmZsg8d1VXEidPomDqNVdGV-O5MFgHinD2HThsIDOjLd6pCd8NUj_0S8Rr-bFeS_7BN6wT4PBTYL05wE-e2r0yUNeGQCC_4LUnl1dWZYOYX7Y0XFFkltrYrn_N8CtsV/s1600/china-flag.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704376385729125970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXpKKw0cLpOtId5NmZsg8d1VXEidPomDqNVdGV-O5MFgHinD2HThsIDOjLd6pCd8NUj_0S8Rr-bFeS_7BN6wT4PBTYL05wE-e2r0yUNeGQCC_4LUnl1dWZYOYX7Y0XFFkltrYrn_N8CtsV/s320/china-flag.JPG" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" /></a>The most significant symbol of every nation is its <span style="font-weight: bold;">flag</span>. For the People's Republic of China, it is a red field charged in the canton with five golden stars. The design features one large star, with four smaller stars in a semicircle set off towards the fly. The red represents revolution; the five stars and their relationship represent the unity of the Chinese people under the leadership of Communist Party of China (CPC). Sometimes, the flag is referred to as the "Five Star Red Flag".<br /><br />The Chinese culture of fashion has evolved through times however it retains its distinct designs. The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chinese “qipao” or “cheongsam”</span> which simply means “long dress” enjoys a growing popularity in the international world of fashion. It appeals to the international market because of its aesthetic value and distinct features. Even those who do not possess Chinese features are keen to wear this kind of clothing but it surely looks better for those who have “chinky” eyes.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzNzajU95_ireDsixJw0hyphenhyphenqntdZ-0wzmS81FL-pI6Zk4VxJhu6krQy3Kq97-HXwVtge26uNfwWwgHwVkuzKBYaxGnL8F3whaOan7IA2nm88QBlNa_bXf42bGtVQTvGdm-ccvWi0INbnJA/s1600/Chinese+Decorative+Knots.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704377738289176898" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTzNzajU95_ireDsixJw0hyphenhyphenqntdZ-0wzmS81FL-pI6Zk4VxJhu6krQy3Kq97-HXwVtge26uNfwWwgHwVkuzKBYaxGnL8F3whaOan7IA2nm88QBlNa_bXf42bGtVQTvGdm-ccvWi0INbnJA/s320/Chinese+Decorative+Knots.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" /></a>The <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chinese Decorative Knots</span> can trace its history to the Tang and Song Dynasty during 960 – 1279 AD. It began as a form of Chinese folk art which was popularized later in the Ming and Qing Dynasty. Chinese knots are usually lanyard type arrangements where 2 cords enter from the top of the knot and 2 cords leave from the bottom. The knots are usually double-layered and symmetrical.<br /><br />Some Chinese figures became popular because of their outstanding skills in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chinese Martial Arts</span>. Some of the names which made it to international knowledge are Bruce Lee, Jacky Chan, Jet Li and many more. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kung Fu and Wushu</span> are examples of martial arts which originated in China. In Chinese, kung fu can be used in contexts completely unrelated to martial arts, and refers colloquially to any individual accomplishment or skill cultivated through long and hard work. In contrast, wushu is a more precise term for general martial activities.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea5LSnRyo_T34FxOIhMeYIVKk6-HwSBqD1hgHcqbdMu7NJSyuMJQ8gFKZMIqv-bBa_jbHw1DmrI7OT-NtLLp949OYYB3dJ7NW8OpUiWSp8eQ6htc1OI9_24LEAV6LBZv4Vj1xpOuo_E0Y/s1600/Chinese+Sedan+Chair.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704381512567820258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea5LSnRyo_T34FxOIhMeYIVKk6-HwSBqD1hgHcqbdMu7NJSyuMJQ8gFKZMIqv-bBa_jbHw1DmrI7OT-NtLLp949OYYB3dJ7NW8OpUiWSp8eQ6htc1OI9_24LEAV6LBZv4Vj1xpOuo_E0Y/s320/Chinese+Sedan+Chair.jpg" style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 288px;" /></a>A <span style="font-weight: bold;">sedan chair</span> is a human or animal-powered transport vehicle for carrying a person, once popular across China. It has different names like "shoulder carriage", "sleeping sedan" and "warm sedan" etc due to the time, location and structural differences. The sedans familiar to modern people are warm sedans that have been in use since the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The sedan body is fixed in the wooden rectangular frames on the two thin log poles. The top and four sides of the seat are enclosed with curtains, with a chair blind that could be rolled open in the front and a small window on each side. A chair is placed inside the enclosed space.<br /></div>

Top 10 Symbols of Chinese Culture

Each nation has characters or symbols that represent its culture. They may be food, famous people, historical landmarks or a certain fashion...

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St.Petersburg ( Санкт-Петербург ). A voyage to St.Petersburg, Russia, East Europe - The second capital of Russia.

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXNVeUfkmol0ykW34XvGF7AfK8CRNS2clVVMjDLDwjEHrpaBes0QezH4RL5WyD0D08W6nGJ_kwYukmH8dJCI3wg48Qs8OUZSvcYFSHGReo47HBPZIOpmwILvcVwloR151DYWY7rUYYwX6/s1600/St-petersburg+55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJXNVeUfkmol0ykW34XvGF7AfK8CRNS2clVVMjDLDwjEHrpaBes0QezH4RL5WyD0D08W6nGJ_kwYukmH8dJCI3wg48Qs8OUZSvcYFSHGReo47HBPZIOpmwILvcVwloR151DYWY7rUYYwX6/s640/St-petersburg+55.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYdA5WgDlI4/UCPUhhM8NUI/AAAAAAAAPA0/DB2Z_4o4avU/s1600/St-petersburg+53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mYdA5WgDlI4/UCPUhhM8NUI/AAAAAAAAPA0/DB2Z_4o4avU/s640/St-petersburg+53.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_mUYxesH9A/TyllIrHWawI/AAAAAAAABmU/1Hlv8cD82gw/s1600/Russia+St+Petersburg+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_mUYxesH9A/TyllIrHWawI/AAAAAAAABmU/1Hlv8cD82gw/s200/Russia+St+Petersburg+3.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvf3pLEv4b3u6WL4IDGJeDMD-2tRv0ZIf9YVxCInBdpZnq6y8E2TR2Ylkbyd1bIWSFtVJZb77KEcGe_Ly4ElLflWff9jYqGkPSXVrl0BEwEcKyvqmWGTPEfqHlVpMqgFmJxDweLE3Zg-J/s1600/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOvf3pLEv4b3u6WL4IDGJeDMD-2tRv0ZIf9YVxCInBdpZnq6y8E2TR2Ylkbyd1bIWSFtVJZb77KEcGe_Ly4ElLflWff9jYqGkPSXVrl0BEwEcKyvqmWGTPEfqHlVpMqgFmJxDweLE3Zg-J/s200/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+51.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoAhi2WhIYVhP4z8JSmCYrSu1UxYrGCH7DKTfBogJYz1BxK_DwDS2OWK2UT3W7MO2MuAW6CClA_0kqnIVUqUKBJ34gvf1nNfGIuTtvLbmEDnPibcd4n_9mug4s8cJ1Ul4OFhyORvC665oy/s1600/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoAhi2WhIYVhP4z8JSmCYrSu1UxYrGCH7DKTfBogJYz1BxK_DwDS2OWK2UT3W7MO2MuAW6CClA_0kqnIVUqUKBJ34gvf1nNfGIuTtvLbmEDnPibcd4n_9mug4s8cJ1Ul4OFhyORvC665oy/s200/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+52.jpg" width="129" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6S_-RGifamcxUsbmMnxOQA4P0YvFy3dnD7npDiI2RhO1zzWX_fWu3IFCmKBWNHK3bxbYq8REbB8KhNHNoZK6MHc7u20iir3l8Hh2pzZljz5caxvzGmTQzrw_rJPJNgB09tW5TjSTzRdRa/s1600/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="131" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6S_-RGifamcxUsbmMnxOQA4P0YvFy3dnD7npDiI2RhO1zzWX_fWu3IFCmKBWNHK3bxbYq8REbB8KhNHNoZK6MHc7u20iir3l8Hh2pzZljz5caxvzGmTQzrw_rJPJNgB09tW5TjSTzRdRa/s200/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+53.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1tHBDgM_EcCID689cu2kynGeiQrVIaT1MRzsGruhZMgUEHfVbrxA7LKWGz5gaUeF8ZZ7nU0m2lj8KgQWL6HI8PBtNhUSBwDvJi3RpxkQsEze4iV6RlwqGQVjJx4AFvDyQ4R-3WLxNnBA/s1600/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1tHBDgM_EcCID689cu2kynGeiQrVIaT1MRzsGruhZMgUEHfVbrxA7LKWGz5gaUeF8ZZ7nU0m2lj8KgQWL6HI8PBtNhUSBwDvJi3RpxkQsEze4iV6RlwqGQVjJx4AFvDyQ4R-3WLxNnBA/s200/Sankt+Petersburg+Russia+54.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejy6j1jiD0w/TyllQM542tI/AAAAAAAABms/iobjRyb3UFM/s1600/Russia+St+Petersburg+6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ejy6j1jiD0w/TyllQM542tI/AAAAAAAABms/iobjRyb3UFM/s200/Russia+St+Petersburg+6.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="destinationMapLink clearfix"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WqkIOPadVI/UCPUo9J173I/AAAAAAAAPBM/U4UkFDH-YIM/s1600/St-petersburg+56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6WqkIOPadVI/UCPUo9J173I/AAAAAAAAPBM/U4UkFDH-YIM/s640/St-petersburg+56.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sco5OCPqkg/TyllL5nOfHI/AAAAAAAABmc/E5V99CBR_XE/s1600/Russia+St+Petersburg+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sco5OCPqkg/TyllL5nOfHI/AAAAAAAABmc/E5V99CBR_XE/s320/Russia+St+Petersburg+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>It seemed like a lark. When Peter the Great built this city on a swamp, his subjects humoured the Emperor. When he declared it the new capital, they were less amused.  But history has shown that the forward-thinking, Westward-looking tsar was inspired. Gradually, St Petersburg evolved from a swampy backwater into a modern European city, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360415">Russia</a>’s ‘window to the West’. Unlike <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=360429">Moscow</a>’s red bricks and onion domes, St Petersburg’s network of canals and baroque and neoclassical architecture give the city a European flavour, no doubt because it was built by Italian architects. Even the residents of St Petersburg fancy themselves ‘European’ and somehow slightly more sophisticated than their more easterly compatriots.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QBrf4tVpg8o/TylkYwgmczI/AAAAAAAABmE/9pccJjuJAIU/s1600/Russia+St+Petersburg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QBrf4tVpg8o/TylkYwgmczI/AAAAAAAABmE/9pccJjuJAIU/s320/Russia+St+Petersburg.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>St Petersburg has always been a city of ideas. Petersburgers incited the Russian Revolution, ushering in 70 years of communist rule. And it was St Petersburg that encouraged democracy when the tide began to change. Nowadays, this city’s citizens are breaking down the barriers of generations past and exploring new ideas, investigating the possibilities of consumerism, creativity and career. It’s not only Rastrelli’s architecture and Tchaikovsky’s operas that entice visitors, but also beatnik bands, edgy art galleries, underground clubs and delectable dining. St Pete’s bohemian side gives a glimpse into the 21st century; and (to borrow a communist slogan) the future is bright!  St Petersburg is legendary for its White Nights: those long summer days when the sun barely dips below the horizon.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_6lPobgZuY/TyllYIWUUCI/AAAAAAAABnE/CFjO5RNJ5_0/s1600/Russia+st+petersburg+9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q_6lPobgZuY/TyllYIWUUCI/AAAAAAAABnE/CFjO5RNJ5_0/s320/Russia+st+petersburg+9.jpg" width="320" /></a>Revels start in May, when the city finally succumbs to spring and the parks are filled with flowering trees. But even when the skies are grey and the ground is covered in snow, the rich culture of St Petersburg dazzles and delights.<br /><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText">Show in Lonely Planet</span></a></h3><h3 class="themeHeading"> More about St Petersburg </h3><ul><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s3bbHd-Nt3A/TyllOMesU5I/AAAAAAAABmk/zXLksVDSCBg/s1600/Russia+St+Petersburg+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s3bbHd-Nt3A/TyllOMesU5I/AAAAAAAABmk/zXLksVDSCBg/s400/Russia+St+Petersburg+5.jpg" width="400" /></a><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/weather">When to go & weather <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/transport/getting-there-around">Getting there & around <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/practical-information/money-costs">Practical information <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/history">History <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/work-study-volunteering/study">Work & study <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/russia/st-petersburg/travel-tips-and-articles">Tips & articles <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/hotel/?RegionId=397">Hotels</a></li></ul></div><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> Make it happen</h3><ul><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/shopSearch?q=st+petersburg%5E2+or+Russia">Shop for travel guides</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/hotel/?RegionId=397">Search hotels</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/flights.do">Cheap flights</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/insurance.do">Travel insurance</a></li></ul><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-31y0uayH9CY/UCUUCLr9WrI/AAAAAAAAPHI/qS-6g1wL4K0/s1600/Sankt+Petersburg+51.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-31y0uayH9CY/UCUUCLr9WrI/AAAAAAAAPHI/qS-6g1wL4K0/s640/Sankt+Petersburg+51.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAChnwcf30s/UCPUrG3tVTI/AAAAAAAAPBU/7flTlMUYLrQ/s1600/St-petersburg+57.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="322" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAChnwcf30s/UCPUrG3tVTI/AAAAAAAAPBU/7flTlMUYLrQ/s640/St-petersburg+57.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPZBqAag-nA/UCPUeR_STyI/AAAAAAAAPAs/sTvRa3_ZScQ/s1600/St-petersburg+51.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mPZBqAag-nA/UCPUeR_STyI/AAAAAAAAPAs/sTvRa3_ZScQ/s640/St-petersburg+51.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffkcAdjgFHVkBMc9FRyj03bOEMyzDLG6V_-cFIiu9QUqiIGqFrOgMyFru9A5oHIHlNT8hAsTgJeSfTDunwishfSeXa-Nn2NHqj50vEWazdFMUc7MwOwCsVnEE-a6QwDxD34WLSnt4ltPm/s1600/St-petersburg+54.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiffkcAdjgFHVkBMc9FRyj03bOEMyzDLG6V_-cFIiu9QUqiIGqFrOgMyFru9A5oHIHlNT8hAsTgJeSfTDunwishfSeXa-Nn2NHqj50vEWazdFMUc7MwOwCsVnEE-a6QwDxD34WLSnt4ltPm/s640/St-petersburg+54.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><h3> </h3></div>

St.Petersburg ( Санкт-Петербург ). A voyage to St.Petersburg, Russia, East Europe - The second capital of Russia.

It seemed like a lark. When Peter the Great built this city on a swamp, his subjects humoured the Emperor. When he declared it the ...

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New Zealand ( Aotearoa ). A voyage to New Zealand, Oceania - Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland...

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg638AZvrBpycIIbHUOACYEZUzLRPqB12H1U4QNhQgb_jaJft6-7SY4uCEIwwqXO4Vgl98BZjjAi2J-mfsGRUhAya-JuCaFdmvLCUSxhhr85aJQspPqRUYdFt0FpjYMreAlDpts5LZImEmj/s1600/new-zealand-auckland-1920x2560.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg638AZvrBpycIIbHUOACYEZUzLRPqB12H1U4QNhQgb_jaJft6-7SY4uCEIwwqXO4Vgl98BZjjAi2J-mfsGRUhAya-JuCaFdmvLCUSxhhr85aJQspPqRUYdFt0FpjYMreAlDpts5LZImEmj/s640/new-zealand-auckland-1920x2560.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="destinationMapLink clearfix"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a> </div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQhKcNrKAXY/Tyldpo7ghsI/AAAAAAAABlU/_RtWTNjtb88/s1600/New+Zealand+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eQhKcNrKAXY/Tyldpo7ghsI/AAAAAAAABlU/_RtWTNjtb88/s320/New+Zealand+2.jpg" width="320" /></a>There’s a reason the sun shines on New Zealand before anywhere else – every new day in Aotearoa is something to cherish! Small, remote and thinly populated, yes, but NZ punches well above its weight with its outlandish scenery, fabulous festivals, superb food and wine, and magical outdoor experiences. Equally impressive is NZ’s potent, mainstream Maori culture. This is a country that recognises and celebrates its indigenous people – the world is a kinder, gentler, more respectful place down here! And while the fanfare surrounding the <i>Lord of the Rings</i> trilogy is waning, visiting the real-life Middle-earth still has a geeky allure - <i>LOTR </i>director Peter Jackson's filmmaking prowess still holds <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362813">Wellington</a> (aka ‘Wellywood’) in its thrall. <br /><div class="mpuWrapper " id="mpuInContent"><div class="mpuInner"><div class="adContainer" id="adContainer_mpuInContent"></div></div></div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxlHHdMeJtE/TyldsSHJcjI/AAAAAAAABlc/RAuEVEXJt9E/s1600/New+Zealand+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxlHHdMeJtE/TyldsSHJcjI/AAAAAAAABlc/RAuEVEXJt9E/s320/New+Zealand+3.jpg" width="212" /></a>In 2007, around 2.2 million overseas visitors tramped, wheeled, wined and dined across the country, up almost 40% from a relatively meagre 1.6 million in 1999. But at what cost? Extra visitors strain the clean, green environment NZ is renowned for, and all this wilderness frenzy is having an impact: the skies above <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362786">Franz Josef Glacier</a> buzz with droning aeroplanes, tourists still shampoo in creeks, and locals simply avoid entire chunks of NZ because of the tourist hordes. In response, the Department of Conservation (DOC) has implemented a booking system for its Great Walks - there are nine including the <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362696">Milford Track</a>, Routeburn Track and Abel Tasman Coast Track - to avoid overcrowding and minimise environmental damage. The NZ tourism industry is embracing all things ‘eco’, while regionally, eateries and farmers markets selling local produce present sustainable options. Regardless, hardcore environmentalists claim the industry and government aren’t moving fast enough. Drought and climate change are fanning the flames...<br /><br /><br /><a name="more"></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz9VUfuc3Wg/Tyldno_Z6oI/AAAAAAAABlM/HnN2TVwWpXE/s1600/New+Zealand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz9VUfuc3Wg/Tyldno_Z6oI/AAAAAAAABlM/HnN2TVwWpXE/s320/New+Zealand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>On the broader arts front, Kiwi live music remains brilliant (dub, hip-hop, reggae and rock), while NZ radio remains abysmal. Culturally, debate rages between anti- and pro-arts lobbies: one side would rather chew their arms off than see another art gallery open; the other sees cultural celebration as the future for both community and tourism. How does NZ forge its cultural identity? What role do the arts play? Do cultural attractions lure the tourists? From our perspective, they most certainly do!<br />And then of course there’s the national obsession – rugby. 2011 will go down as the year that New Zealand, at last, fulfilled their potential by winning the Rugby World Cup. The All Blacks may have sneaked across the line with a nerve-jangling 8-7 win over traditional party-poopers <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=359219">France</a>, but the scenes of mass jubilation that broke out across the country at the final whistle showed that it was the result that really mattered. Now New Zealand have broken their fast it'll take a mighty challenge to wrench it from their grip.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egQ8ANJV8mk/Tyld19rgBzI/AAAAAAAABl0/MmOhoL5-7jk/s1600/New+Zealand+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-egQ8ANJV8mk/Tyld19rgBzI/AAAAAAAABl0/MmOhoL5-7jk/s320/New+Zealand+6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>The national real estate boom continues to mesmerise sellers and infuriate buyers. Rising house prices have stabilized with rising interest rates, but wages have failed to keep up: <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362646">Auckland</a>, <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362659">Christchurch</a> and <a href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinationRedirector?atlasId=362813">Wellington</a> are among the world’s most expensive cities in terms of housing affordability (relative to income).<br />Other topics on local tongues include fixed-net fishing endangering dolphins, vexatious treaty settlements, and didymo (aka ‘rock snot’) infestation in rivers and lakes. And don’t get anyone started on petrol prices...<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHZlJPJ-f38/TyldvEesoRI/AAAAAAAABlk/O13XVUas7A8/s1600/New+Zealand+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RHZlJPJ-f38/TyldvEesoRI/AAAAAAAABlk/O13XVUas7A8/s320/New+Zealand+4.jpg" width="320" /></a>That’s contemporary NZ in a nutshell! You’re in for an awesome trip. Back home on the couch, your memories will drift from rampaging outdoor activities to world-class food, wine and beer (oh, especially the wine and beer), and chilled-out locals. But your most sparkling recollections will come courtesy of NZ’s natural splendour – there are few countries on this lonely planet as diverse, unspoiled and utterly, utterly photogenic.<br /><h3 class="themeHeading"> <span style="font-size: small;"><a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText">Show in Lonely Planet</span></a></span></h3><b></b><br /><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dtg9JgEPmCDj3ZHz7r8wLWsJrq9xLuVRvV5xDXZPMdf8l8KXFYdFVxLtVfgi7P-FnwVCzxtc6chhnvUKVe-VPz9g83PSuBCzixfv6EIGKxAopUYFl4k_0d8T4hxhKLPGZiYaFptbxJgj/s1600/New+Zealand+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dtg9JgEPmCDj3ZHz7r8wLWsJrq9xLuVRvV5xDXZPMdf8l8KXFYdFVxLtVfgi7P-FnwVCzxtc6chhnvUKVe-VPz9g83PSuBCzixfv6EIGKxAopUYFl4k_0d8T4hxhKLPGZiYaFptbxJgj/s400/New+Zealand+7.jpg" width="265" /></a><br /><h3 class="themeHeading"> More about New Zealand <a class="pin toggleMap closed" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand#" id="pinToggleMap" style="display: block;"><span class="showMapText"></span></a></h3><ul><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/places">Places in New Zealand <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/weather">When to go & weather <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/transport/getting-there-away">Getting there & around <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/practical-information/money-costs">Practical information <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/history">History <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/work-study-volunteering/work">Work & study <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/travel-tips-and-articles">Tips & articles <span class="bottom"></span> </a> </li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/">Hotels</a></li><li> <a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/trips">Trips</a> </li></ul></div><div class="relatedLinks clearfix"><h3 class="themeHeading"> Make it happen</h3><ul><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/shopSearch?q=new+zealand">Shop for travel guides</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/new-zealand/">Search hotels</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/flights.do">Cheap flights</a></li><li><a class="linkChevron" href="http://www.lonelyplanet.com/bookings/insurance.do">Travel insurance</a></li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNQkxciBCUk/Tyldx4RvvcI/AAAAAAAABls/2hRn1b8-OK0/s1600/New+Zealand+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eNQkxciBCUk/Tyldx4RvvcI/AAAAAAAABls/2hRn1b8-OK0/s640/New+Zealand+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8g1SLUv2D_FpTxjCTdIwyaDAi_wMEXX451qxg5j0wIDo9HlEi1Og08T5lcj0QNzavPKdvAFNbWOnJDc8Di-04uGlvNuF4cIJN8Z3KWoqaUkWHMvOx53RP3NQoxJ-3kUunHDu7hAJ1IMC/s1600/New+Zealand+50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc8g1SLUv2D_FpTxjCTdIwyaDAi_wMEXX451qxg5j0wIDo9HlEi1Og08T5lcj0QNzavPKdvAFNbWOnJDc8Di-04uGlvNuF4cIJN8Z3KWoqaUkWHMvOx53RP3NQoxJ-3kUunHDu7hAJ1IMC/s640/New+Zealand+50.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><ul></ul></div><h3> </h3></div>

New Zealand ( Aotearoa ). A voyage to New Zealand, Oceania - Wellington, Christchurch, Auckland...

There’s a reason the sun shines on New Zealand before anywhere else – every new day in Aotearoa is something to cherish! Small, re...

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