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Renowned for its history and culture, some of the world's most exciting cities are to be found in Europe. Still, you may be surprised by the modern nature of so much of the continent. Proud of its history but looking forward to the future, Europe offers travellers everything they could want. So if you want a trip that seamlessly blends the old with the new, there is nowhere better to visit. My own top ten places to visit in Europe are:

1. London

This vast metropolis has to be the first city of Europe. You could spend a year here and not see everything nor get bored. It's been said that when you tire of London, you tire of life. Never has this been more true, with the regenerated South Bank including Shakespeare's original theatre, the Globe, the transformed power station which is now a wonderful (free) modern art gallery, the festival hall and so much more. There are South Kensington's museums, unrivalled in all the world. The royal parks are magnificent, as are the palaces and royal homes. On top of this is a thriving street life, markets and extensive shopping. The Nightlife with its myriad of clubs, bars, restaurants and theatre ensures there is something for everyone. Probably the most truly cosmopolitan city in the world.

2. Amsterdam

Picture postcard pretty with beautiful buildings situated along tree lined canals, it cannot rival London for size or variety but it has its own special appeal. The Dutch are one of the friendliest races in Europe. To add to the appeal is the magnificent Indonesian restaurants all around town. Probably most famous for its red light district and liberal attitude to prostitution, it would be a shame if you allowed that to prevent you discovering the secret pleasures that Amsterdam yields. The Jordaan entices visitors with its street cafes, which are the hub of this trendy and arty quarter. The Museum quarter has the wonderful old masters in the Rijksmuseum sitting close to the Van Gogh and modern art museums. A day there is a day lost to pleasure. The less traditional museums, cannabis, sex and heineken are all a little further north hiddling around the Dam Square (where they put on a most wonderful live show with magnificent fireworks for New Years Eve). You must try the Indonesian food and some of the dutch treats, such as poffertjes, small dutch pancakes served with butter, sugar and fruit.

3. Barcelona

The Catalan capital. Barcelona is fiercely Catalan (spanish is the second language) and is rightly proud of its heritage.

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