For over nine years, Neil and Joan have been spending their summers cruising the canals and rivers of Western Europe aboard their now thirty-one-year-old Dutch motor-cruiser, the “Estate.” This year they are again sharing their experiences with readers of EuropeUpClose.com.June 16 As a boater, one gets accustomed to sitting in port, waiting for parts or repairs. After spending the better ... Read Full Article
Five of the Best Terrasses in Paris
There are few things in life more enjoyable than having a drink and delicious eats on a patio when the weather is divine. No matter if it is spring, summer or fall, you need to experience a terrace in Paris, so it’s time to don your lunettes de soleil (sunglasses) and grab a table at one of (or more) of the best terrasses in Paris. Here are our Picks for the Best Terrasses in Paris Le ... Read Full Article
Bluestone Resort: Wales’ Perfect Eco Vacation
Set amid one of the most picturesque areas in the UK, Bluestone Resort is located in Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and is only two hours from Cardiff and 10 miles from Whitland train station. Not only does Bluestone boast stunning views and an inviting landscape, but the accommodations are also environmentally friendly. Bluestone's 178 timber lodges, each of which can sleep from four to eight ... Read Full Article
The Incomparable Centre Pompidou – Paris, France
From the first time I saw a picture of the Centre Georges Pompidou in my 6th grade French class, I knew this was a place I absolutely had to visit someday. While my classmates did their cultural projects on the Eiffel Tower and the Arch de Triomph, I fixated on the tubular escalator on the outside of this, to my 6th grade mind, completely radical piece of architecture. Needless to say, as soon as ... Read Full Article
Exploring England’s Dorset: The Town of Sherborne
The town of Sherborne, in northwest Dorset, is relatively small, but it’s oozing in character and has plenty to see and do. Here are some essential highlights:Stroll Around the TownNo visit to Sherborne is complete without a stroll around the town. The town itself is quite small, so it’s easy to explore on foot; car parking is available and the train station is close to the town ... Read Full Article
Tenerife: Spain’s Botanic Treasure
The best-known of Spain's Canary Islands is Tenerife, its touristic fame established nearly a century ago by the British who still wait out winter at its beach resorts. Its beaches are not the best on the islands – Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura have those – but it has more variety than most other islands. The Treasures of Tenerife Spain’s highest point, the snow-capped cone of El Teide, stands ... Read Full Article
Bruges: Belgium’s Fairytale City
Bruges is a fairytale paradise in the tiny European country of Belgium. Stepping off the train at the station, you are immediately transported back in time to medieval Europe, a period when the primary mode of transport was by horse and carriage. The city is popular with visitors worldwide for its canals as well as locally produced lace, chocolate, and beer.Bruges is called the ‘Venice of the ... Read Full Article
Glasgow Insider’s Travel Guide
The largest city in Scotland, Glasgow has historically been Scotland’s industrial centre, but in recent times has transformed itself into a cosmopolitan, cultural destination. It has the vibrant feel of a modern European city, but retains much of its Scottish identity. Food, shopping, and that “Glaswegian Charm” make for an unforgettable experience.Tourist SightsAll tourists should start ... Read Full Article