stores, then you must visit La Gallerie Lafayette. It has an amazing domed roof which is ornately decorated. At christmas particularly, the store hangs a large decorated christmas tree upside down from the roof. Spectacular.

6. Rome

Home of a mighty empire and bringer of civilisation to a lot of Europe, Rome, like an elegant lady, remains aloof basking in the glory of her youth. There are many remnants of ancient Rome paraded out for the tourists and the Coliseum, the Trevi fountain and the Vatican are the top three must sees. The food, including the wonderful street food, is one of the most welcome legacies of the old empire. The Romans themselves take a bit of getting used to. They are fiery and full of life, but once you get used to that, you'll enjoy it. For the religious, especially catholics, there is a myriad of churches and religious artifacts to keep your attention. Being so close to the vatican, this city feels its influence more than most, so do not expect too much in the way of nightlife.

7. Cornwall

Nestled at the end of England's lazy leg, Cornwall is a county full of delights. The picturesque fishing villages, beautiful beaches (favoured by the surfers), the Eden project (a gigantic conservation project housed in two great domes) and the home of the legends of King Arthur. If that isn't magic enough, Cornwall has its own history of faeries and pixies to uncover. Other than the wonderful fish restaurants and cream teas, the best known food in Cornwall is the cornish pasty, a spiced meat pasty that the fishermen's wives used to prepare before sending their husband's off to work.

8. Florence

Nestled meekly in the side of Italy, this is the most beautiful of Italian cities. It was once ruled by the mighty Medici family which bequeathed a host of Arts to the city; Michael Angelo's David is housed in the Academy whilst the Uffizi gallery is home to a wide range of artists' work. The Pont d'Vecchio is the central bridge which has a thriving permanent jewellery market policed by friendly policeman in period uniforms. Be careful to dodge the young boys as they speed through the city on their scooters.

9. Dublin

Ireland's capital city has a lot to offer any tourist. The Temple bar area is full of narrow streets and lanes and is located in the heart of Dublin. It houses a varied array of nightlife and interesting shops. It is Dublin's cultural quarter. If you are feeling thirsty you must try Bewleys tea shop for a well earned break. It has the look and feel of the orient and the service is second to none. Head into any one of a number of pubs or eateries to sample some authentic Irish stew, complete with Barley, a perfect warming dish to keep out the cold and rain. Striding the river liffey, Dublin is profiting from an economic boom and the city is changing rapidly so go soon while it still retains its character.

10. Copenhagen

Wonderful, wonderful Copenhagen. A Scandinavian city close to the coast. The little mermaid, one of the best known statues in the world welcomes visitors to the harbour. There is something in the city to entertain everyone, Tivoli gardens for the kids, Hamlet's castle (well Kronburg upon which Hamlet's castle was based), museums, shopping and the famous Danish design furniture. Just outside Copenhagen, in Aarhus is an art gallery full of Mondial's geometric works, well worth a visit. Also, getting round town couldn't be easier, deposit your coin and take a bike to sightsee. You even get the coin back when you return the bike.

Learn more about this author, Stephen H.
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