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by Melissa Kyd

If you are considering heading out and seeing some of Eastern Europe it is understandable that you're perhaps a little hesitant what's out there. Maybe you've seen the images recently on CNN of the problems in Serbia, have heard about clashes with protestors in Russia and the Ukraine, or perhaps you simply recall the dark and dismal scene when the college kids accidentally end up in East Europe in Road Trip 2'! Well let me put your mind at ease, I've traveled in East Europe (I was even in Belgrade when those riots occurred) and whilst I don't recommend jumping in the deep end here if you are interested in discovering some of the treasures that lie to the east then a great city to visit is Zagreb.

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia a country celebrated mostly for its beautiful beaches. It is easily accessed by plane, is close enough to reach via bus from Vienna or Venice, has a booming night life and offers a great shopping experience.

My personal tip for Zagreb is to head to Ilica this main stretch starts at Trg Ban Jelacic (Ban Jelacic Square) and heads west. The main square is easily accessed from all parts of the city by the excellent tram network and is a popular meeting spot for people young and old. To get a feel for the place I recommend the fantastic pekara or bakery in the square do what the locals do and buy a pastry wrapped sausage and wander along the nearby streets and the main stretch of shops.

The great thing about starting here is the place has such a positive energy about it, you'll be able to hear the street buskers treat you to traditional music while you are soaking up the atmosphere. Walk to the west end of the square and you can view the well that gave the city its name. From there you can head up to view St Mary's Cathedral and continue on up to Strossmayer's Walk, which looks out across the city, visit the houses of parliament and see the elaborate roof of St Marko's Church.

Heading down from there you will be able to go back to the main street via a quaint little market square (I brought some wonderful hand crafted children's toys for my nephews here). Then you are back on the main street Ilica ready to do some serious shopping. Here you will find all the major brands that you are familiar with, as well as locally produced clothing and some great bargains in this popular stretch.

Worn out after the sightseeing and shopping? Then why not head one block south. Set back from the main street are some pedestrian malls, and it's here that you'll find a stretch of cafes in what's locally known as Flower Square (Trg Cvjetni). This is a great spot to sit and watch the world go by over a coffee and is a popular place for local celebrities to be spotted.

After a coffee pick-me-up you are free to explore some more or go back to your room to prepare for a great night out. There is plenty to be seen and experienced in this booming Eastern European town and who knows it might be the start of a whole new series of traveling adventures!

Learn more about this author, Melissa Kyd.
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