Böcker av Austin Cox

Extremadura-Cáceres Travel-Guide, Spain. Extremadura Touristic Environment.The regions of Spain are diverse, and each boasts its own unique curiosities. The autonomous community of Extremadura in western Spain is no different. The rolling hills and wild, open land in this region are rich in local culture. To promote its distinct customs and cuisine, the regional government has created a network of museums called the Museos de Identidad, or Museums of Identity, dedicated to some of the foods, festivals and traditions found in Extremadura. Exploring Extremadura-Cáceres is a journey into the heart of old Spain, from the country's finest Roman ruins to mysterious medieval cities and time-worn villages. Mérida, Cáceres and Trujillo rank among Spain's most beautifully preserved historical settlements. Extremeño hamlets have a timeless charm, from the remote northern hills to sacred eastern Guadalupe and seductive Zafra on the cusp of Andalucía in the south. Few foreign travellers make it this far. Spaniards, however, know Extremadura as a place to sample some of inland Spain's best food: roasted meats, the pungent, creamy Torta del Casar cheese and the finest Monesterio jamón (ham). This is a region of broad blue skies and vast swathes of sparsely populated land with isolated farmhouses and crumbling hilltop castles. Wooded sierras rise along the northern, eastern and southern fringes, while the raptor-rich Parque Nacional de Monfragüe is Extremadura's most dramatic corner

Ottawa People History and Culture, The Origin, beyond Canada. The Ottawans, Algonkian, Algonquian. Some Americans do not think of the Ottawa as an important tribe. There were never very many of them, and their culture language was almost identical to the more-numerous Ojibwe and Potawatomi. Between 1615 and 1763, the Ottawa were one of the most important tribes in North America, but their homeland was remote to the British colonies on the Atlantic seaboard. When the Americans reached the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes, the Ottawa's time had passed, and their role in the history of the United States after 1775 was small. A trading tribe even before contact, the Ottawa were businessmen before they ever met a European, so they immediately recognized the opportunity presented by the fur trade and attached themselves to it and the French. They soon became indispensable. Paddling their birchbark canoes for great distances, the Ottawa became the "French connection" to other Algonquin in the Great Lakes and brought the furs they collected to the Huron villages where the French were. The Huron provided warehouse space and protection from the Iroquois, but the Ottawa were the sales force who went out and got the business. Recognizing this, the French built their trade around the Ottawa and Huron.

Cambridge City, England. Travel Guide. With its cobbled streets, twisting river and ancient colleges, Cambridge is without doubt one of the UK's prettiest towns. Dominated by the 31 colleges of one of Britain's most prestigious universities, it is, at heart, a student town even if those students are more likely to go on to discover a cure for cancer rather than raise hell on the cobbles. Indeed, the city's collection of memorials, plaques and benches are dominated by famous alumni, among them Sir Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin and no fewer than 15 British Prime Ministers. The architecture of the colleges is mostly grand, although a guided punting trip past the famous King's College Chapel will give you a glimpse of the University's more human side. Further along the Cam, you'll find the rickety-looking, wooden Mathematical Bridge, the Wren Library at Trinity College and pretty riverside gardens and parks known collectively as The Backs. You could always make the experience extra authentic by trying punting yourself (it's far more challenging than it appears), though if you really want to do it properly, take along a punnet of strawberries and a bottle of champagne. Beyond the city's academic assets, Cambridge is a vibrant spot replete with pubs and restaurants and crammed with museums to boot. Drink at the RAF bar of The Eagle pub, which still has it ceiling decorated with messages left by the airmen who drank there 70 years ago, or plunge into quaint passages set around the historic market place and colleges, where a unique blend of independent shops can be found along familiar high street brands. Catch a student theatrical production, or a show at the Arts Theatre; otherwise see live music or comedy at the Corn Exchange. When you want to explore beyond Cambridge, there's plenty to choose from: head for the market town of Ely or Wisbech, explore the wonderfully unique Fens, or enjoy a sport of horse racing at New market

Budapest Travel and Tourism, Hungary. Tourist Guide, Budapest History, People, Culture and Tradition. Is there a finer European city than Budapest? When it comes to classic good looks steeped in history and culture, Hungary's capital lays serious claim to the crown. From the neo-Gothic splendor of the Parliament building to the disorderly comfort of its legendary ruin bars, Budapest carries itself with effortless charm on every beautiful street corner. While the city's many thermal spas, not to mention restaurants serving hearty Hungarian fare, make it perfect in winter, warm summers see locals enjoy open air pools and leafy strolls on Margaret's Island in the middle of the majestic Danube. When it gets too warm, there are easy escapes to the fresh air and greenery of the Buda Hills via the cog railway or Zugliget chairlift. With amazing nightlife, stunning architecture, delicious food, and wonderful locals, Budapest quickly stole our hearts and became one of our favorite big cities in Europe (and probably even the world!). Honestly, we could both see ourselves living here for a while because there are so many things to do in Budapest, and lots of them are free (or cheap!). Budapest has character, history and is quite affordable compared to many other European cities

Brussels Travel, Belgium Environment. Tourist Guide, History, Vacation. Brussels has been the de facto capital of the European Community (and now European Union) for decades, and for a good reason. The city's gothicand baroque-style squares, set between medieval streets, are the playgrounds of international politicians and adventurous tourists alike. Authentic Belgian fare offers full three-course meals, and daily doses of chocolate and beer are worth every cent. Brussels is cosmopolitan in ways other cities are not it's truly multilingual (French and Dutch) and almost a third of its residents aren't Belgian. The multicultural influences have led to an explosion of museums, marketplaces, restaurants and boutiques that make it far more than just a sleepy alternative. These Brussels tourist attractions will keep you and children well entertained during your Brussels vacation. They are best visited during daytime. And during evening, you can enjoy some of the great Brussels restaurants and bars. The best way to see Brussels attractions comfortably is the well known hop-on hop-off bus. Also worth considering is the Brussels card, which features discounts for Brussels attractions, free entrance to museums and public transport pass

Bruges Tourism, Belgium. Good wine doesn't need a crown. There is no place in Belgim where so many remains of Middle Ages can be found as in Bruges. The history of Damme has always been closely related to the history of Bruges. Together they knew their times of glory, which made them infamous all over the known world. But they also went down together when the Zwin silted up and seaships could no longer reach Bruges or one of her ports. Bruges said to have originated from a Gallo-Roman settlement some 2000 years ago. At that time trade via the sea already took place here. On what is now know as the "Burg", there used to be a stronghold in the middle of the 9th century. The port was accessible directly from the sea until the middle of the 11th century. At that moment in time, the town already had grown to an international commercial center. If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on central Bruges (Brugge in Dutch), one of Europe's best preserved cities. Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches and lane after lane of old whitewashed almshouses. For many the secret is already out; during the busy summer months, you'll be sharing Bruges' magic with a constant stream of tourists in the medieval core. To really enjoy Bruges, stay one or two nights day trippers miss out on the city's stunning nocturnal floodlighting and try to visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds. The best times to visit are in spring, when daffodils carpet the tranquil courtyard of the historic begijnhof retreat, or outside of Christmas in winter, when you'll have the magnificent, if icy, town almost all to yourself

Boston Travel guide, Massachusetts, U.S.A. Boston is a historic city, with old colonial buildings, a long history, and a strong link to the founding of the country. Bostonians are very proud of their city and show their Boston pride any chance they can. I grew up in this city and even with all my world travels, Boston is still one of my favorite cities in the world. Though one of the biggest cities in the country, it has more of a large town feel to it than that of a metropolis. In this college town, you'll find friendly locals, die-hard sports fans, great bars, good restaurants, and a ton of American history. Don't miss out. Boston is one of North America's most beautiful cities, offering visitors a unique blend of historical sites and modern attractions, beautiful waterfront views and lush parks, wonderful hotels and restaurants, and more exciting events and things to do and see than you can possibly fit into one visit. The arts have thrived in Boston ever since the 19th century, when this cultural capital was dubbed the Athens of America. Certainly, the intellectual elite appreciated their fine paintings and classical music, but they were also dedicated to spreading the cultural wealth, establishing museums, libraries and symphony orchestras for all to enjoy. Today the lucky residents of (and visitors to) Boston benefit from their largesse. These venerable institutions play an integral role on Boston's cultural stage, which has significantly expanded to include dynamic contemporary art, music and theater scenes

Bristol History and Travel Guide, England. Travel Information. Bristol is on the rise. Derelict docks are becoming leisure venues, heritage attractions ooze imagination and a world-class street-art scene adds colour and spice. From Clifton's iconic suspension bridge to Brunel's groundbreaking SS Great Britain, via steam boats and trains, Bristol is a city awash with the past. And it's engagingly exhibited too. Here history goes beyond being 'hands-on' it's 'climb on' and 'ride in'. Clamber up the rigging of a mighty ship, have a trip in a massive crane, don a hard hat to scramble beneath the Clifton Suspension Bridge, chug about in a tug. Then there's the M Shed museum's insightful approach to learning which cleverly juxtaposes past with near-present and gets us thinking about the links between the two. Bristol is known for its offbeat, alternative character thanks to the counterculture vibe of some neighbourhoods and a famously vivid street art scene. That's down in large part to the works left behind by the city's most notorious son, the mischievous muralist Banksy touring them is a multi-coloured highlight of any trip. In communities like Stokes Croft you'll find a wealth of art collectives and community-run cafes, while a range of festivals and the city's music venues, first-class theatre and an art-house cinema help keep the culture dial set to high. Perhaps surprisingly for one of England's largest cities, Bristol offers exciting ways to explore outdoors. Although the docks aren't used so much now for trade, the waterways remain here you can learn to Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) and paddle kayaks and canoes. In Bristol you can soak in naturally heated waters like the more famous neighbouring city of Bath, Bristol also sits on hot springs, enjoy them at the Bristol Lido. The nearby Avon Gorge offers excellent climbing, Bloc is one of the southwest's best bouldering walls, and the Bristol & Bath Railway Path offers 13 miles of cycle trails.

Bordeaux Travel and Tourism, France. Environment, Holiday guide, Business, Locaitons and Places. An intoxicating cocktail of 18th-century savoir-faire, millennial hi-tech and urban street life, France's sixth largest city is among Europe's most exciting and gutsy players. This is the world's largest urban World Heritage Site, cradling half the city (18 sq km) in its Unesco-listed treasure chest. From the elegant symmetry of place de la Bourse, palaces strung with stone-sculpted mascarons (faces), to tree-shaded boulevards laced with hôtels particuliers (mansions) built for 18th-century wine merchants, Bordeaux architecture is world-class. Contemporary architects continue the trend for excellence, with breathtakingly wild and beautiful creations resembling giant wine decanters, gleaming white pebbles, all sorts. An interesting portfolio of art museums embracing all periods and genres is the icing on the cake to this magnificent architectural heritage. Striding through Bordeaux on its leggy route north past traditional wine-producing chateaux to the Atlantic Ocean, the River Garonne is never far away. From this Gallo-Roman city's golden past as medieval wine trader and key port in Europe during the Age of Enlightenment, to the prestigious vineyards and vibrant quayside culture the river fuels today, the Garonne has been the city's lifeline since birth. Be it strolling, jogging or cycling along the silky-smooth water's edge in a loop from Left to Right Bank, lounging over drinks on a riverside terrace or cruising along the water, Bordeaux's riverside riches merit your full attention.

: Birmingham Travel, England. Tourism Information. Note Birmingham is the second largest city of the United Kingdom. Here you will see many interesting places and many interesting people. Even today the population of Birmingham is very diverse. The reason for that is in ancestors of modern Birmingham residents. These were people who lived in colonies. This city is quite old and it is mentioned for the first time yet in the "Book of the Doomsday" issued in 1086. The city becomes significantly popular in the 13th century because of its multiple fair-trades. Moreover, at that time one could buy high quality weapons there and there was constant high demand on that product. In this city you can find all architectural styles that look very naturally together, making the city unforgettable and uniquely beautiful. The center Birmingham is the location of the International Convention Center that is widely known and popular for its beauty and refined design. Moreover, here you can see many important political meetings. From time to time famous politicians from different countries of the world come to Birmingham to participate in international negotiations.

Berlin Tourist Guide, Germany. Tourism, Vacation and Business Guide. Berlin's combo of glamour and grit is bound to mesmerise all those keen to explore its vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food, intense parties and tangible history. Forget about New York Berlin is the city that truly never sleeps. Sometimes it seems as though Berliners are the lotus-eaters of Germany, people who love nothing more than a good time. The city's vast party spectrum caters for every taste, budget and age group. From tiny basement clubs to industrial techno temples, chestnut-canopied beer gardens to fancy cocktail caverns, saucy cabarets to ear-pleasing symphonies Berlin delivers hot-stepping odysseys, and not just after dark and on weekends but pretty much 24/7. Pack your stamina! When it comes to creativity, the sky's the limit in Berlin, which is one of Europe's big start-up capitals. In the last 20 years, the city has become a giant lab of cultural experimentation thanks to a spirit that nurtures and encourages new ideas as well as to once abundant space and cheap rent. Although the last two of these are definitely a thing of the past. Top international performers still grace Berlin's theatre, concert and opera stages; international art-world stars like Olafur Eliasson and Jonathan Meese make their home here; and Clooney and Hanks shoot blockbusters in the German capital. Highbrow, lowbrow and everything in between there's plenty of room for the full gamut of cultural expression. Berlin is a big multicultural metropolis but deep down it maintains the unpretentious charm of an international village. Locals and expats follow the credo 'live and let live' and put greater emphasis on personal freedom and a creative lifestyle than on material wealth and status symbols. Cafes are jammed at all hours, drinking is a religious rite and clubs keep going through the weekend into Monday. Size-wise, Berlin is pretty big but its key areas are wonderfully compact and easily navigated on foot, by bike or with public transport

Bermuda Travel and Tour, Caribbean. Caribbean Travel, Vacation Guide. Bathed in the balmy turquoise waters of the Sargasso Sea, the string of islands that is Bermuda is ringed by treacherous reefs that make it one of the world's top diving destinations. With its pastel-colored houses and stately mansions drowning in lush greenery and fragrant frangipani and bougainvillea, their step-like white roofs poised to catch rainwater, Bermuda feels like a genteel chunk of rural England lifted into warmer climes. But it's much more diverse than that, with British, North American, African, Portuguese and West Indian influences adding to the unique cultural melange. In spite of its tiny size just 20 miles by 2 miles Bermuda's museums and art galleries add touches of urban sophistication and its many forts attract history buffs, while its varied topography makes it ideal for all manner of water sports, hiking, golfing, or just lazing on a picture-perfect pink-sand beach. Bermudians are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet. They are always willing to stop and help out a lost tourist with directions, offer advice on their favorite dining spots or just sit and chat about what a lovely day it happens to be. The friendly natives, beautiful scenery and warm climate make Bermuda one of the nicest places on earth

Bath Travel Guide, England. New Vacation Discovery of hidden Paradise. Bath is one of Britain's most appealing cities. Exquisite Roman and Georgian architecture, hipster hang-outs and swish spas make it hard to resist. Bath's extraordinary array of architectural treasures has earned the whole city Unesco World Heritage Site status. It's easy to see why. Bath is home to one of the world's best-preserved Roman bathhouses sited here because of hot springs that bubble up at a toasty 46°C (115°F) degrees. In the Circus and Royal Crescent, the city has some of Britain's grandest Georgian buildings. Their construction turned Bath into the destination for 18th century society. That sophisticated spa town tradition continues at Thermae Bath Spa, a luxurious new/old building combo that offers views of the cityscape from its alfresco roof-top pool. As befits a city that's long been a leading light in the cultural scene, contemporary arts make a strong showing in Bath. A batch of quality festivals include those themed around theatre, classical music and literature they're scheduled away from the main (and very crowded) summer season and are a great focus for a visit.Year-round, evening entertainment includes an art house cinema, comedy club, and the historic Theatre Royal, which has a main stage, studio venue and unusually a space specifically for children's and young people's shows.

Barcelona Travel and Tourism, Spain. Spain Vacation, Business Guide. Barcelona contains both the authentically historic and the wildly bizarre. From the scenic trails of the colorful Park Güell to the romantic narrow alleys of Barri Gòtic; from the beachside nightclubs to the city's dozens of sacred churches and architectural marvels, this city by the sea seems to attract all types: the adventurer, the couple, the partier, the culture lover and more with an almost overwhelming variety of things to do. You could stay for a few days, but chances are you'll need a whole week to explore. In Barcelona, even the beach is bustling, but it's really the cosmopolitan city that gets all the attention. Much of the activity revolves around Las Ramblas, a series of narrow streets and alleys packed with restaurants, nightclubs and a vibrant pedestrian market. But you should also take a tour of Antoni Gaudí's masterpieces; Gaudí is responsible for sites like Casa Milà, Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia. You also shouldn't miss out on the eclectic shopping scene and the region's exquisite food and wine. You see why we suggest a week vacation?

Barbados Island Travel Guide, Caribbean. Honeymoon, Holiday, Tourism. The most eastern of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is a relatively flat island with sloping plains, sporadic rolling hills and even areas of marshes and mangroves. With 60 miles of coastline, the island is an ideal place to enjoy the seaside. The highest point on the island is Mount Hillaby, which peaks 340 meters above sea level. Historical traces can be found throughout Barbados, from 18th century homes to the residual presence of colonial and Christian influences. Social activities center around the western and southern coasts, where tourists can enjoy waterfront pubs, nightclubs and more. To see more of the map, widen your browser. Attractions: In the area encompassing Bridgetown and the surrounding southwest coast, tourists will find engaging attractions like the Tyrol Cot House and Heritage Village. This site provides excellent insight into Barbados' history, complete with the Chattel House Museum, a slave hut replica, an operational blacksmith's shop and more. Likewise, at the George Washington House, guests can take a peak into the house where the famous Washington spent his time on the island. On the west coast of the island, known as the "Platinum Coast," guests will be enticed by crystal clear water that gently crashes onto pristine stretches of sand. There are countless beaches to choose from in this area, including Paynes Bay, Sandy Lane, Batts Rock and more. Other recommended beaches include Cattlewash Beach on the east coast, Carlisle Bay located near Bridgetown, and the southern coast destinations of Crane Beach and Accra Beach. The interior of Barbados is equally attractive, with stunning sites like the Flower Forest. Located directly in the center of the map, this former plantation features numerous paths that traverse extensive gardens, which are home to flora from around the globe. At the Farley Hill National Park in the northern interior of the island, patrons will be enchanted by ruins of the former Farley Hill house, which was become a retreat for picnickers and nature enthusiasts. Likewise, the Barbados Wildlife Reserve located directly across from Farley Hill, and offers a marvelous glimpse into the natural wonder of Barbados. For a great day of hiking, check out the Welchman Hall Gully, which sits a bit south of Flower Forest