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By Tom Bross
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Our mental itinerary traverses many of the country’s 16 federal states (Länder), zooms above the Rhine, Neckar and Danube River valleys, hip-hops over highlands and woodlands, with dozens of historic cities and towns—plus a big batch of castles and palaces—scattered in every direction. Thanks to such overviews, first-time and repeat visitors can appreciate the cultural and topographical diversity of this mid-European country, carved into separate republics (capitalist West and socialist East) in 1949, then reunited in 1990.
No other continental destination can match Deutschland’s all-seasons abundance of festivals and other special events. New attractions—important museum openings included—constantly pop up on local and regional calendars. And the art-and-music scene always maintains its world-class stature. (more)
ABCs of Western Europe - Amsterdam Brussels Cologne
Edited by Maria Lisella
Amsterdam: Cozy, Cool and Cutting Edge
As Holland’s capital, Amsterdam remains cozy yet progressive and is a magnet for contemporary travelers, artists, thinkers, entrepreneurs as well as a popular location for exhibitions, events, festivals. More of a cosmopolitan village than a bustling city, its rich cultural and historical heritage, balances its past with its present. Its charm as a destination is that it functions most efficiently as a contemporary, cutting-edge 21st century space, while retaining its classic 17th century ambiance. The canal houses and surrounding museums and monuments serve as a backdrop to this dynamic and cosmopolitan town, known over the ages for its freedom and tolerance.
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To this day a walk through the narrow streets of Amsterdam gives the walker glimpses between buildings that have inspired generations of artists. But there is a better way of discovering the magnificent narrow streets, namely a cruise along the canals. You will never feel closer to Rembrandt than here.Visit www.holland.com
Brussels: Capital with a Beat of Its Own
In the Grote Markt of Brussels, one of the most spectacular squares in Europe, a Gothic townhall and Baroque guild houses form a theatrical décor for the most diverse festivals such as the wild Couleur Café, the historic Ommegang pageant, the summer jazz and rock concerts and a daily flower market. The square is lined with cafes where Belgians and visitors spend time to discuss politics, the latest fashion news or just gossip while sipping a beer.
Brussels combines the elegance of its uptown boulevards with little places like “Butter Street” or “Cheese Square” downtown. Cosmopolitan, multi-cultured, multi-lingual Brussels is sophisticated yet remains disarmingly provincial - a city on the edge and traditional at the same time.
Brussels is big on art and the treasures found in its great museums may not surprise travelers, but what may strike one are the contributions of the younger generation in Brussel. Iconoclastic fashion gurus, young sculptures and painters, new furniture and jewelry designers, great rock, pop and jazz musicians and adventurous chefs are launching daring food for demanding gastronomes that make Brussels a capital with a beat of its own. Visit www.visitbelgium.com(more)
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