Bhutan's main attractions are mountain scenery, beautiful architecture, Buddhist culture, spirited village festivals, game reserves, temples, monasteries, jagged gorges, green valleys, trekking and historical sites.

Bhutan is the only country in the Himalayas where the Vajrayana Buddhist culture survives intact. 
However, the fall of other kingdoms that represent this vibrant culture, such as Tibet, Sikkim and Ladakh, and the encroachment of globalization make the survival of this tiny Buddhist nation increasingly fragile and poignant.

In Bhutan, trekkers will find an alternative to the overcrowded trails of Nepal.  Serious photographers will be impressed with the country's traditional architecture and abundant wildlife.  (Herds of yaks graze in its high-country valleys, and rare snow leopards, blue sheep and black-necked cranes can sometimes be spotted in its farthest reaches.)  Others can find pleasure in the elaborate tsechus (religious festivals) that are held throughout the year at various dzongs (fortress monasteries).  Nearly everyone who visits Bhutan will be awed by the unsurpassed majesty of the Himalayas.

But it's neither easy nor cheap to visit Bhutan, which is tucked in between India and China (Tibet).  No independent travel is allowed in the country—all visitors must book their trip through a state-licensed travel office or a foreign travel agent who deals directly with the government.  The government charges all travelers 9,000 Nu a day, to which the Bhutanese company may or may not add its own operating costs.

On the brighter side, your trip is usually free of the hassles associated with travel in other countries in this region, as the fee covers lodging, food, tours and comfortable transportation in well-maintained buses, SUVs
or cars.  The fee also includes a guide with whom you can plan your itinerary.

Bhutan is a good destination for flexible, adventurous travelers who are visiting India or Thailand and who enjoyed Nepal, Tibet or the Ladakh region of India.  Although there are several high-end resorts, the country is generally not for those who require deluxe accommodations, who are adversely affected by high altitudes, who desire a wide variety of food, shopping and nightlife, or who will become upset if everything doesn't go exactly as planned.



China's main attractions are the Great Wall, the terra-cotta warriors, acrobats, shopping, Hong Kong, Tibet, pandas, ancient instrumental music and Chinese opera, food, the Forbidden City and a diverse landscape.

These days, it's quite jarring to walk around parts of old Beijing.  Although old grannies can still be seen pushing cabbages in rickety wooden carts amidst huddles of men playing chess, it's not uncommon to see them all suddenly scurry to the side to make way for a brand-new BMW luxury sedan squeezing through the narrow hutong (a traditional Beijing alleyway).  The same could be said of the longtang-style alleys of Sichuan or a bustling marketplace in Sichuan.  Modern China is a land of paradox, and it's becoming increasingly so in this era of unprecedented socioeconomic change.

Relentless change—seen so clearly in projects like the Yangtze River dam and the relocation of thousands of people—has been an elemental part of China's modern character.  Violent revolutions in the 20th century, burgeoning population growth (China is now the world's most populous country by far) and economic prosperity (brought about by a recent openness to the outside world) have almost made that change inevitable. China's cities are being transformed—Beijing and Shanghai are probably the most dynamic cities in the world right now.  And the country's political position in the world is rising: The 2008 Olympics were awarded to Beijing, despite widespread concern about how the government treats its people.

China has always been one of the most attractive travel destinations in the world, partly because so much history exists alongside the new, partly because it is still so unknown to outsiders.  The country and its people remain a mystery.  The rice paddies may have sprouted cities and manufacturing centers, and the streets may be clogged with cars and pollution, but the people remain rooted in a rich cultural heritage.  They still burn joss sticks for good luck in an enterprise—even as they iron out the details of that enterprise on a cell phone.

China will appeal to open-minded travelers interested in visiting an important culture that is truly different from their own—they'll have the experience of a lifetime.  China will not appeal to travelers who have respiratory problems (many of the cities are rather polluted), who demand impeccable service and accommodations at all times, or who don't like Chinese food.  Outside of the major tourist areas, creature comforts can be few and far between. For many travelers, group travel will be the best way to go; in some parts of China—politically sensitive areas such as Tibet, for instance—group travel was once the only way to visit.  However, as Tibet and other areas of the country increasingly open up to tourism, that is changing.  It is certainly possible to travel individually, although the services of a local guide are still necessary and permits require visits to be as part of an organized tour, officially at least.  Given that access to parts of the country can be denied to foreigners without advance warning, it's best to have a flexible schedule and to keep abreast of news developments.

 


The foremost attractions in India are the Taj Mahal, religious shrines, the Himalayas, tigers, monkeys, cows, sloth bears, magnificent architecture, beaches, spiritual pilgrimages, great works of art, awe-inspiring scenery, ancient cultures, colonial relics and Bollywood movie musicals.

A trip to India is an all-out assault on the senses.  You'll travel through dusty heat (or snowy cold in the north), sharing roads with a parade of bicycles, auto-rickshaws, sputtering motorcycles, tinsel-draped trucks, camel carts and the occasional cow.  At India's sights and markets, the chaos continues: throngs of beggars, hawkers, tourists, near-naked holy men, businesspeople, children and scurrying monkeys.  Amid the cacophony, some of the globe's most majestic and historical sights will emerge—the Taj Mahal, the Ganges and the Himalayas.

India, with all its variety, feels more like a series of countries strung together than a cohesive whole.  As you move from region to region, you'll be exposed to dramatic changes in cuisine, dress, language, religion, custom and tradition.

Some parts of the country are rife with modern conveniences, and Indians there live in fashionable real estate, surrounded by the trappings of 21st-century consumer capitalism.  The growth of the economy is due, in part, to a burgeoning communications industry. Malls, multiplexes and lifestyle stores are opening all over.  Yet in some areas, people still don't have access to clean water, electricity, adequate food and medical care.  Many people, attracted to cities in search of jobs, stay in clumsy shacks because of unaffordable real estate, resulting in slum regions.  This is especially prevalent in India's commercial capital, Mumbai, where the government is building multi-storied housing complexes to accommodate these people.

With these contradictions come complications.  The mass of humanity that populates India requires that you be patient, flexible and tolerant, which can be difficult if you're troubled by the disparities between India's rigid social classes.  The country's religious conflicts and ongoing dispute with Pakistan are also concerns, though these events have been largely confined to certain regions.  Most travelers will find these difficulties well worth the rewards, however: India remains an incomparable travel experience.

India will appeal to naturally curious and adventurous travelers (some experience traveling in developing countries will be helpful to those going off the beaten path).  For first-time visitors, we recommend escorted tours or well-organized itineraries with previously arranged guides and accommodations in each city.  Expect to experience hot weather, severe poverty and unexpected delays or schedule changes.  Don't expect deluxe accommodations outside urban or tourist areas.




Indonesia's attractions include beaches, temples, indigenous cultures, spectacular scenery, handicrafts, volcanoes, scuba diving, and unique birds and animals.

Not long ago, Indonesia was one of Southeast Asia's business hot spots and a growing travel destination.  Bali, especially, was (and still is) an easy and enjoyable place to visit, full of stunning sights, interesting Hindu culture, friendly people and comfortable amenities.

But Indonesia has become a troubled land.  A series of terrorist bombings in Jakarta and Bali caused a significant decline in tourism, and bloody civil conflicts in other parts of the country discourage nonessential travel to such areas.

And if Indonesia's social and political troubles weren't enough, the country has suffered a number of devastating natural disasters in recent years.  A 6.3-magnitude earthquake, a mud volcano eruption and two tsunamis have rocked the nation, killing and injuring thousands, and recovery is a slow process.

With an estimated 240 million people, Indonesia is the fourth most populous country in the world, and there are 350 cultures and many languages scattered across its widespread islands.  All that diversity strains the government's ability to meet the needs of the populace.  It's also one of the best reasons to visit Indonesia.  Visitors often return home more appreciative of what they have after witnessing the hard life many Indonesians lead.

Indonesia can be a good destination for those who love to lie on beautiful beaches, enjoy exotic cultures and who can tolerate a certain degree of inefficiency, inconvenience, tropical heat and discomfort.




Among the chief attractions of Japan are Mount Fuji, gardens, shopping, cherry blossoms, cultural attractions (from palaces and historic sites to sumo wrestling and Kabuki theater), bullet trains, beaches, war (and peace) memorials, traditional crafts, and religious shrines and temples.

It is fascinating to watch as Japan struggles to merge its thousands of years of tradition with its present and future.  So far, it has been able to do so with some mystery intact.  The language barrier has helped, although that's slowly dissolving with bilingual signs and Japanese students learning English.  For a while at least, the language, like Japan itself, will remain an intriguing challenge for visitors.

Japan consists of four main islands (from north to south: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu), plus the Ryukyu Islands and thousands of smaller ones with a combined total of 17,000 mi/27,000 km of coastline. Mountains cover two-thirds of the country, including more than 70 volcanoes, many of them quite active. Japan's volcanoes are part of the Pacific's Ring of Fire, an enormous circle of volcanic activity along the edge of the Pacific tectonic plate that runs through the Philippines, New Zealand, California and Alaska.

Japan is a wonderful, fascinating and, unless you're very careful, expensive destination.  Don't go if you are on a tight budget or are uncomfortable among dense crowds or in confining spaces.  Be aware that you'll have to do a lot of walking to explore most attractions.  Avoid traveling to Japan the first week of January, last week of April/first week of May, in late July or early August.  These are major holiday periods when there are many closings and public transportation is fully booked.





Among Laos' chief attractions are Luang Prabang, beautiful mountain and jungle scenery, Asian culture and historical sites.

Unlike other Southeast Asian countries that have embarked on high-energy growth plans, Laos has remained low-key and developed at its own pace in relative isolation.  Thus, each year, travel restrictions have decreased and travel-related services increased slowly but surely.  Luang Prabang, a pretty, temple-filled city, now has several world-class resorts and luxury properties, as well as a modern airport.  The capital, Vientiane, has started to boom because of investment from China and Thailand and has started to build in anticipation of increased tourism.

Most of the country, however, has not yet been seen by visitors since few leave the beaten path.  Slowly, though, travelers are starting to discover the stunning scenery (mountain and jungle) in the provinces and the cultural and historical sites.  Although modern conveniences and comfort may not be instantly available everywhere, those looking to truly "get away from it all" can go for days without seeing many other travelers.  That sort of solitude does not last forever, however, so vacationers wanting that kind of peace and quiet should make travel plans soon.

Vientiane offers visitors a wide range of accommodations, from basic guesthouses to plush boutique-hotels and everything in between.  In the northern city of Luang Prabang, a few world-class resorts offer luxury and top-quality services.  Other parts of Laos are still unsuitable for inexperienced travelers or those who desire modern comfort and convenience.  Nevertheless, those who have traveled in Asia previously will find few major difficulties—and many rewards—in the cities of Vientiane and Luang Prabang.  Laos is a particularly appealing destination for travelers who are willing to get off the beaten track and experience Southeast Asia as it was 50 years ago, with all the charms (and difficulties) that implies.

Travelers who have visited Asia previously and are looking for something new—or rather, are looking for Southeast Asia as it was 50 years ago—should add Laos to their vacation list.


Nepal



Among the chief attractions of Nepal are mountain and valley trekking, mountain climbing, Kathmandu, exotic wildlife preserves, Buddhist shrines, Hindu temples, bird-watching, beautiful scenery and river-rafting.

Nepal is a heady place, whether you're a trekker on a trail to Annapurna, a climber on your way to Everest or a seeker on the path to enlightenment.  There are few countries on Earth that can match Nepal's combination of spectacular scenery, exotic culture and hospitable people.  Along with the world's deepest canyon and eight of the world's 10 highest mountains, Nepal has steamy jungles and terraced valleys laced with ancient villages, remote temples and wildlife preserves.

For all its dizzying beauty, though, there are still problems in Nepal these days that can bring you down to earth in a hurry: Trash is still found on some peaks (though much has been cleared), robbery occurs occasionally on several of its most popular trekking trails, and pollution still fills the Kathmandu Valley—the benefits of new electric bemos (minibuses) are largely lost in a growing number of motorbikes.

Though the good hearts and spiritual nature of most Nepalis remain unchanged, the situation should be monitored by budding Siddharthas or would-be Edmund Hillarys tempted to visit Nepal at this time.  Its peace is still precarious.

Nepal will appeal to open-minded, flexible travelers who want to see a truly exotic place.  You don't need to be Sir Edmund Hillary to enjoy an organized trek—it's not like alpine mountain climbing—but the more physically fit you are, the more you will enjoy the walk.  Don't visit Nepal if you are bothered by poverty and unsanitary conditions, unexpected delays and high altitudes (some of the land in the south is almost at sea level, but much of the country is high in the mountains).  Nepal's mountainous location and climate make flight delays a distinct possibility, and although rebel activity has ceased the situation remains volatile.


 

Among the main attractions of Thailand are beaches, snorkeling, scuba diving, temples, ruins, hill-tribe culture, trekking, fine handicrafts, excellent food, nightlife and very friendly people.

Thailand offers something for everyone.  The capital, Bangkok, is alive with commerce and street-bustle nearly every hour of the day and night.  Whether in big cities, the country or on a pristine beach, Thailand offers travelers a safe, friendly atmosphere full of possibilities.  Indeed, one reason Thailand is among the most visited countries in Asia (more than 14 million visitors annually) is because of its accessibility and extensive tourism infrastructure.

Thailand has fabulous architecture, diverse hill-tribe villages, ancient ruins, beautiful islands, excellent shopping and all the amenities as well.  The balance between comfort and excitement is up to you: Stay at a five-star hotel or trek through the jungles; eat at gourmet buffets or buy fruit from local vendors; shop in glitzy malls or wander through outdoor markets.  Thailand offers a curious mix of the ultramodern and the simply delightful.

Thailand will appeal to anyone who is interested in beach vacations, shopping, eating or archaeology, but especially to those who want to explore different cultures without sacrificing modern conveniences. Don't expect deluxe accommodations everywhere you stay, though, and be prepared for heat, humidity and dust during the dry season and lots of rain in the wet season.

 


 
Nearly everyone will find something satisfying about Austria.  The only people who won't are those particularly interested in visiting numerous sandy beaches.




Croatia's main attractions are beaches, Dubrovnik, spectacular coastal and mountain scenery, picturesque towns, museums, ancient islands, lakes, historical sites, fishing, gorges, yachting, marvelous churches and monasteries, folk arts, fascinating culture, Zagreb and health spas.

Croatia borders Slovenia, Hungary, and Bosnia and Herzegovina and is close to Austria and Italy. In the interior of the country are mountains dotted with vineyards, castles, lakes and waterfalls.  The rugged Dalmatia coast is simply spectacular, with towering mountains forming a backdrop for the long, narrow strip of land and rock that is washed by the clear waters of the Adriatic.

Croatia will appeal to travelers who have already been to many European countries and are ready to get off the beaten track to discover a fascinating part of the world. Croatia makes a great beach holiday—the coastline is spectacular, and the seafood is excellent.



 
England's main attractions include historic sites, museums, royalty, theater, Stonehenge and other antiquities, London, rural scenery, stately homes, a varied coastline, quaint villages, formal gardens, walking trails, canal trips, shopping, friendly people, cultural events and quirky traditions (the biggest-liar competition, gurning, cheese rolling, fire-barrel carrying, etc.).

England is like a maze: You can't hurry your way through. Around nearly every bend in the road you'll find stately homes, crumbling castles, magnificent gardens, thatch-roofed cottages, cozy pubs and beautiful churches to explore. It's easy to while away hours admiring the details—a painting here, an architectural detail there.  In fact, despite the country's relatively small size, you never seem to see it all.   From Shakespeare and royalty to Stonehenge and thousands of years of history, England is simply a wonderful place to visit time and time again.

There is enough diversity in England to satisfy 99% of international travelers—everyone will find something to love.  The only travelers who might not enjoy themselves are those who can't tolerate unpredictable weather—summer can be very hot, but it could just as easily be cloudy or wet.  England has four very distinct seasons, each with its own charm, but to remain so gloriously green, it takes a lot of rain.



 
France offers something for just about everyone: museums, cathedrals, food, skiing, palaces, specialty tours (wine, culinary, hiking, etc.), Versailles, mountain climbing, beaches, shopping, nightlife, sidewalk cafes, health spas, carnivals, casinos, festivals, architecture, walled medieval towns, the Alps, coastal scenery, canal trips, and French art and culture—and, of course, Paris, with its monuments, street life and sense of style.  One of the best ways to get to know France is to visit a local market.  For visitors, all of France can seem like a market—it's one of those rare countries where every region offers something worthwhile and distinctive.

Paris represents the height of fashion, art and food—its sense of style is so strong it intimidates some visitors, yet the city can also be remarkably comfortable and intimate.

Each of the French provinces offers its own landscape and culture: the glittering crowds of the Cote d'Azur, the elegant chateaus of the Loire Valley, the hospitable vineyards of Bordeaux, the rocky coasts of Brittany, the dramatic slopes of the Alps and the Pyrenees, and the charming farms and villages of Provence.

France can satisfy just about any traveler's taste.





Germany's main attractions are history; Berlin; mountains and forests; river cruises; Christmas markets; lakes and beaches; art, architecture and performing arts; wine and beer; skiing, fishing and hiking; health spas and casinos; castles and churches; Alpine scenery; farmland; shopping; and Munich.

Germany and its visitors are reaping the rewards of unity.  Huge investments in infrastructure and services are not only erasing the Cold War dividing lines, but scars caused by World War II are also finally disappearing.      In real terms, this means that travelers are likely to move around the country faster, dine better and experience newer attractions, such as the Reichstag's glass dome.  A lot has changed, yet chances are that repeat visitors will still find the things they always liked: the restaurant serving huge helpings of sauerbraten or the biergarten with liter upon liter of lager and wheat beer.

Once you stop looking at Germany strictly in terms of east and west, you'll start to see it as the Germans do: as regions sharply defined by dialect, food, traditions and history.  For the best perspective, sample as many regions as possible.  Booming Berlin, now the No. 1 tourist magnet, is the clearest benefactor of reunification.  Visitors to the cultural centers of Dresden, Leipzig and Weimar in eastern Germany will find improved amenities there as well.  The north has the delightful old seafaring cities of Hamburg and Bremen.  Along the Rhine and Moselle rivers are picturesque castles and steep, terraced vineyards.  The Grimm Brothers collected the tales they heard in a trail of villages from Hanau to Bremen.  In the south are snowcapped Alps, the alluring Black Forest, Munich, and Bavaria's boisterous beer halls and rococo palaces and churches.

Although it has plenty of fairy-tale sights and picturesque scenery that is reminiscent of medieval times, Germany is without a doubt a postindustrial, multicultural country with all the inherent advantages and conflicts. Reunification has been a huge social and economic undertaking, and it comes on top of an already heavy and, at times, troubling history.  Travelers to Germany will probably not be affected, but on the other hand, visitors shouldn't expect all parts of the country, at all times, to be an Oktoberfest.

The country will appeal to travelers who are interested in European history, old-world architecture, lovely landscapes and cultural attractions as well as the flavor of German life.  Travelers who are particularly interested in warm-water beaches and consistently nice weather may be happier in other European destinations.





Greece's main attractions include beaches, historic sites, modern and ancient culture, striking scenery, spas, islands, cave exploration, charming people, casinos, yachting and shopping, food and nightlife.

At the ancient site of Delphi, where the Greeks once consulted the Oracle about the future, there's a small round sculpture.  It's known as the omphalos—the cosmic belly button.  The Greeks believed that Delphi was the very center of the world—the place where everything came into being. Indeed, many aspects of Western culture came into being in Greece—drama, art, philosophy and science.

It's a heady feeling to walk on stones that may have been trod upon by Plato, Homer or Agamemnon.  But at many places in Greece, where ancient ruins are surrounded by the noise and smells of traffic, or where pristine island beaches are packed by topless sunbathers, it's apparent that the influence works the other way as well: Greece, it sometimes seems, has been overtaken by the modern world it spawned.

The trick for travelers in Greece is to find the golden mean—in this case, the balance between environment and history, between crowds and quiet, between ancient and modern.  With a bit of planning (and maybe a query to the Oracle), you can find beautiful settings that can soothe your soul, and centuries of art and history to invigorate your mind.  It's very likely you'll be as charmed by the Greek people as you are by their landscape.

Nearly everyone will love Greece.  It's a relatively inexpensive destination with diverse attractions.  The country will especially appeal to travelers who enjoy history, philosophy, sailing, beaches and quaint villages.  Don't expect lush tropical scenery around the beaches (Greece is quite arid) or a wide variety of international foods, although the offerings have improved considerably in Athens and other primary tourist centers.



 
Among Iceland's main attractions are hiking, fishing, river rafting, geysers, horse trekking, whale-watching, camping, skiing, snowmobiling, Viking ruins, puffin-watching, volcanoes and lava fields, the Midnight Sun, northern lights, hot springs, museums, glaciers and waterfalls.

Iceland's stark, pristine scenery has been shaped by fire and ice: More than 200 volcanoes and numerous glaciers form the country's landscape.  It's a frozen land that's always letting off steam.  Its U-shaped valleys, jagged lava fields, monstrous icecaps, hot springs and geysers have carved a rugged, bizarre landscape you won't see anywhere else on Earth. But you don't need the fortitude of a Viking to enjoy Iceland.  In fact, you can experience many of its extremes in relative comfort.  During a recent trip, we swam outdoors in a naturally heated pool just feet/meters away from a glacier.

Iceland will appeal to travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, rugged scenery, brisk weather and a relaxing, invigorating vacation (anyone who enjoys Alaska would be a prime candidate).





The country's main attractions are stunning coastal scenery, charming people, traditional music and dance, excellent golfing, horse racing, fishing, fine theater, bird-watching (for puffins, terns and other northern sea birds), historical sites and ruins, lush gardens, shopping and legendary Irish pubs (where Guinness Stout and Irish whiskey flow freely).

Travelers looking for charm, friendly people, solid service without a "touristy" feel and plenty of places to explore should plan a vacation to Ireland.  In addition to pubs and Riverdance-style step dancers, you also can find local musicians, friendly locals, stunning scenery, ruins and historical sites, and golfing to enjoy at a relaxed pace.

Nearly everyone will find something to enjoy in Ireland, be it the green countryside, Irish whiskey, shopping, bicycling tours or wandering sheep.  Traditional culture still thrives, and even becoming one of Europe's economic successes hasn't changed the Emerald Isle's people or way of life too much.  Travelers will find good service, lots of accommodation options and little crime aimed at visitors.  Even the souvenir shops seem rather low-key.

Take your time when traveling around the country.  Although it's possible to drive the length of Ireland in less than a day and to traverse the width of the country in a few hours, we prefer to settle in and explore a particular region, whether on foot, on horseback or behind the wheel—mindful, of course, of wandering sheep on small back roads.

Ireland will appeal to almost everyone.  However, the same natural elements that make the countryside so green make the weather cool and damp—it rains and mists a lot.  The weather, even in summer, can be damp and chilly, but then no one goes to Ireland for the weather.  Although there are beautiful hotels, not all areas have deluxe accommodations.



 
Italy's primary attractions include culture (modern, old and ancient), fabulous regional cuisine, historic sites, varied and stunning scenery, beaches, jagged coastline, architecture, world-class skiing, opera, watersports, elegant health and beauty spas, picturesque ruins, and shopping (for high-quality clothing, shoes, ceramics and designer goods).

Land of la dolce vita (the sweet life), it is little wonder that this country is one of the world's best-loved destinations.  Tuscany alone possesses more artistic treasures than the whole of Spain, which is the second
country in the world for cultural heritage. From the mountains to the coasts, the emphasis is on simple pleasures
and high quality.

Italy will be enjoyed by those who want a diverse, fairly informal vacation, who are romantics, and who love art, history and lovely settings will enjoy Italy.  The air of blithe inefficiency in some parts of the country may be disconcerting for travelers who demand the correct, crisp efficiency of northern European countries: A timetable may be treated more as a romantic ideal than as an attainable goal.

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Netherlands 


The Netherlands' main attractions include museums, historical sites, contemporary culture, Amsterdam, windmills, cheese, dikes, shopping, tulips and other flowers, castles and palaces, art, bicycling, cruises on canals, festivals and diamonds.

If you think of the Netherlands solely as a tranquil still life by Vermeer, you may be in for a surprise.  We'll admit that much of its countryside, with cows grazing in fields near canals and old windmills, does suggest the timeless serenity captured by so many Dutch painters, but in its cities you'll find a more unexpected sort of harmony—one that balances tidy traditional architecture with a very modern point of view.  Amsterdam, for example, has lovely gabled houses, priceless paintings and cheery, multilingual people.  It also has coffee shops selling cannabis and window prostitutes touting their wares.  The Dutch are nothing if not practical about sensual needs and desires, and the Netherlands is as well-known for its tolerance as for its tulips.

The Netherlands' appeal is universal, and ultra-tolerant Amsterdam is especially attractive to young people.   But don't go looking for mountains or good beaches (there are far better stretches of sand elsewhere in Europe).




 
Portugal's main attractions include old-world European culture, beaches, resorts, deep-sea fishing, archeology, history, scenery, festivals, churches, monasteries, castles and friendly people.

Sun-drenched beaches of the Algarve, exclusive golf resorts, medieval hilltop towns, colorful fishing villages, a cosmopolitan capital, the vine-filled valley of the Douro, wild remote mountains—Portugal has it all. But Europe's oldest country, which has had its eyes melancholically set on the sea and on a lost and glorious past, has turned its head toward Europe and is undergoing a profound modernization.  But still things move a bit more slowly in Portugal, devagar as residents say, and some 11 million tourists seem to like the pace.

The social contrasts are still bigger there than in any other country in western Europe. But Europe's former "poor house" is on its way to becoming a nice mansion with a sea view.  The young Portuguese still listen to fado, and the students of Coimbra still wear their traditional outfits, but they party in stylish cafes and bars.  There is no better way to experience Portugal than to sit down in a street cafe with a bica (espresso) or a glass of port as you watch the world go by.  And when you leave Portugal, you will probably feel saudade (a feeling of longing for something that is gone but might return).

Almost everyone likes Portugal, especially those who like beaches, pretty scenery, good food and a wide variety of active nightlife (in the main cities and resorts). Just don't expect super-efficient service.







Russia's main attractions include art, magnificent (and restored) cathedrals and monasteries, treasures and palaces of the czars, the performing arts, health spas, river cruises, historic sites, spectacular scenery, Siberia and Moscow's Kremlin.

Russia is a country of contrasts—a vast territory rich in natural resources (especially oil and gas), where some are incredibly rich and millions of others are desperately poor.  That said, a rising urban middle class is steadily changing the makeup of post-Soviet Russia.  When asked what they want for the future, many Russians speak of "having an easier life, being able to buy good things."  Their dreams of prosperity are fueled by foreign movies and television programs, a crop of extravagant Russian films and soap operas, commercials that seem to run nonstop and billboards on many a street corner advertising luxury goods.  But, for many, even standard material goods remain out of reach.  Although the economy is finally recovering from the 1998 devaluation of the ruble, millions don't have access to the country's wealth, while others buy luxurious property abroad.

Today's Russia is often exhilarating, sometimes ominous.  Everyday life goes on amid a jumble of trial-and-error capitalism, glitzy casinos, billboard politics, czar mania, slick gangster-hangout restaurants and posh nightclubs. Although the situation differs from that of the 1990s, when both careers and fabulous fortunes were made overnight (and lost as well), most Russians still rely on fortune and fate more than on law, state and order.  Some observers have suggested that 15%-20% of Russia's economy is controlled by organized crime.  Add to the mix a religious revival: Hundreds of renovated Russian Orthodox churches are offering services in urban centers, and thousands of worshippers make pilgrimages to the country's numerous monasteries and other sacred places.

So far, travelers haven't been affected directly by the country's turmoil or corruption.  But conditions are changing so quickly that you should keep a close eye on the news.  And you should be aware that despite all the doors that have opened and the greater flow of information, there are still plenty of murky areas in Russia—sudden changes of rules, unexpected shortages and mysterious surcharges.  Nevertheless, you'll find that the overall quality of hotels, restaurants and services—although wildly variable—is improving, many on par with western European institutions.

Travelers should be flexible, tolerant and patient—and aware of risks. Russia can be both an enthralling adventure and a tiring ordeal.  For those willing to endure the risks and inconveniences, Russia is simply a fascinating place—from the imperial beauty of Moscow and St. Petersburg to the bleakly romantic Siberian countryside.

Russia will appeal to travelers who have a sense of adventure and an open mind.  Don't expect a relaxing vacation, and, unless you're in Moscow or St. Petersburg, don't expect deluxe accommodations—a trip through Russia requires determination, flexibility and plenty of patience.


 


Scotland offers magnificent scenery, historical sites, neolithic burial sites, fabulous seafood, lively pubs, Aberdeen Angus beef, Gaelic music and culture, hiking, castles, the Edinburgh Festival, pony trekking, golf, gardens, distillery tours, fishing, mountaineering, skiing, scuba diving and searches for the legendary Loch Ness monster.

These days, Scotland's vibrant cities have become every bit as popular as its sweeping pastoral landscapes. Glasgow is an important center for architecture and design, and the annual Edinburgh International Festival, one of the largest in the world, gets bigger and zanier every year.  The opening of the New Scottish Parliament in September 2004, after years of delays, has given a grand home to the nation's devolved government.  It is a fitting symbol of a country whose fiercely independent spirit and culture are as strong today as they have ever been.

Even with all that urban activity, Scotland has plenty of places to get away from it all.  In the Highlands, one of Europe's wildest and least spoiled areas, you can walk for hours across misty moors and clamber up and down rocky slopes without seeing a soul.  A shaggy Highland cow, a thread of smoke curling from a cottage chimney or a soaring golden eagle may add to the feeling of blissful solitude. And when you're ready for company, you'll find it at friendly pubs and inns, where traditional music—and in the Highlands and islands, Gaelic culture and language—thrive.  For all its air of wildness, rebellious history and moody weather, Scotland has a wonderfully cozy and warm side. The Scots (not Scotch—that's the drink, which Scots refer to as whiskey) have a strong hospitable streak and a great sense of humor, which often comes washed down with a "wee dram" and an infectious toast of slainte (to your health).

Scotland has universal appeal: Almost everyone will find something they like about it. Only those who love constant warm, sunny weather won't be happy—it's often rather cool.






Spain's main attractions are historical sites, lively cities, some of the finest art in the world, castles, cathedrals, the Alhambra, shopping, the White Villages, cultural events, beaches, museums, caves, hiking, watersports and great food.

Spain offers visitors a richness and complexity that may surprise.  All the tempting postcard fantasy pictures are there in reality, side-by-side with other, less-expected ones.  You may come across fiesta dancers in a village square, a young man practicing flamenco guitar, a medieval Arab fortress or enormous windmills.

There's also the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, its mind-bending shapes like those of no other museum in the world, just as the exuberant architecture of Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona makes it like no other church in the world.  There are super-fast trains, and there are villages where produce comes to market via donkey.  The contrasts, the colors and the vibrant spirit of the place will stay with you for a long time.

Anyone who likes to travel will enjoy Spain.  From its art museums and its tapas bars to its beaches, Spain's appeal is so broad that it's truly a country with something for everyone.

 




Switzerland's foremost attractions are spectacular Alpine scenery, impeccably managed hotels, world-class museums, medieval architecture, hiking, fishing, watersports, skiing, climbing, quality shopping, tennis, health spas, cycling and chocolate.

The popularized image of Switzerland is almost too perfect and timeless: spectacular Alpine scenery, cozy mountain chalets, dazzling ski runs, window boxes spilling over with red geraniums, tidy cities set on serene lakes, elegant grand hotels.  Though you'll undoubtedly encounter these along the way, they don't present a complete picture of this modern country.  Switzerland may guard its neutrality and assert its independence, but it is very much an active participant in the world.

If you're going for the scenery or for the skiing, there are few places that can equal it (in quality or high prices).  And there are few places as clean, safe and orderly as Switzerland.  Likewise, few countries have such diversity in terms of culture and language:  German is prevalent in Zurich and the northern, central and eastern regions; French in Geneva and the western region; Italian in Lugano and the southern region; and Romansch, the fourth national language, is the language of the southeastern part of the country, which includes the ski resort area of St. Moritz.

Switzerland is so visually stunning that almost everyone will be impressed with it.  Skiers, climbers and others who love mountains will especially enjoy the Alps.  It's an ideal country for families. T here are affordable accommodations, but you'll have to look outside the best-known locales for them—Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe, although the disparity in prices between what is now the eurozone and Switzerland is less than it used to be.

The only people who shouldn't go to Switzerland are those who have difficulty adjusting to high altitudes or those looking for a bargain vacation.

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