As far as Northern Ireland goes, there is so much to see beyond the city limits of its Belfast capital. The second largest city in Ireland, Derry (or Londonderry, as it’s also known) is spread across both sides of the River Foyle and its position lends itself to being an excellent base for exploring the country (including nearby County Antrim) as well as the Republic of Ireland – namely Donegal and Inishowen. A city steeped in history as well as modern amenities, Derry is a quintessentially Irish town that is well worth a visit.

Staying in Derry can be an affordable prospect – you can find a hotel in Derry that is well within a reasonable budget, and places you in the heart of the city ready to explore.

In 2010, Derry was shortlisted for the prominent accolade of City of Culture 2013 and is proud to be the inaugural holder of the award next year. It’s easy to see why the city achieved the honour as well, as it provides a myriad of cultural offerings to its visitors.

The Workhouse Museum is a museum over two floors, which offers insight into workhouse life during the 19^th century and is also home to the Atlantic Memorial exhibition which covers Derry’s activity during the Battle of the Atlantic in World War 2.

The Tower Museum that opened in 1992 is home to two permanent exhibitions as well as visiting exhibitions throughout the year. The ‘Story of Derry’ does exactly what it says on the tin, and you can also enjoy the ‘An Armada Shipwreck’ exhibition that holds artefacts found in Kinnagoe Bay, back in the 70s, that belonged to a 16^th century shipwreck.

If you’re interested in local history, be sure to pay your respects to the Bloody Sunday Memorial in Glenfada Park that pays tribute to those who lost their lives during the plight of Bloody Sunday in 1972. There is also some archive space and an exhibition for you to peruse directly opposite the plinth.

A hankering for a spot of retail therapy can be satiated with the handful of shopping centres in the area, including Foyleside, Lisnagelvin and Quayside, whilst there are also a huge number of independent stores and shops, catering for any requirement, strewn across this vibrant city.

For a meal out, La Sosta provides some fine Italian cuisine, whilst if a gastropub is what you’re after, look no further than Badger’s Place for some top quality hearty grub. There are also plenty of traditional Irish establishments that are nestled on the banks of the River Foyle for you to sample if something a little more rustic is what you’re looking for.

Venture out of the city and head for the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. With Derry being in close proximity to the borders, you can appreciate the natural beauty of Donegal during your trip. The Glenveagh National Park is simply breathtaking and just north of Derry; you can find the Inishowen Peninsula which offers a 100-mile scenic drive that comes highly recommended.

Book your hotel in Derry today and look forward to exploring another corner of Northern Ireland.

Where Are Dead Can Dance From?

Dead Can Dance is a world fusion music band which was formed in my home town of Melbourne, Australia back in August 1981. The band made up of by Lisa Gerrard and Brendan Perry, relocated to London during May 1982 and disbanded in 1998. They reunited in 2005 for a world tour, and again in 2011-2012 for a new album ‘Anastasis’ and launched a world tour which is currently underway. I am hoping to get attend their Melbourne concert in February 2013.

Australian music historian Ian McFarlane described Dead Can Dance as having an ambient style of world music that “constructed soundscapes of mesmerising grandeur and solemn beauty; African polyrhythms, Gaelic folk, Gregorian chant, Middle Eastern mantras, and art-rock.” The Host of Seraphim is featured in the movie ‘Baraka‘ and really is quite a hauntingly moving piece of music.

The Host of Seraphim – Dead Can Dance

A Passage In Time – Dead Can Dance

For More Information

• Wikipedia
• Dead Can Dance – Official Website

You already know you’re going to love Australia. From our sun-soaked beaches to our booming cities, Australia has something to offer everyone, whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a week of pure adventure.

Our natural resources are unsurpassed – and I’m not just talking about the countryside. Australian guys and gals are some of the most gorgeous specimens you’re likely to see on your travels. Here’s a guide to figuring them out – and maybe even getting lucky!

What you’ll do

Get someone to take you to a football game. Wear a team scarf and chant things like, “CARN THE PIES!” just for the hell of it. Eat a meat pie and drink a Foster’s at half time. Go to the beach. Marvel at the blue oceans, the golden sand, and the beautiful people in tiny swimming outfits walking past. Go to the pub.

Drink a pint or two, eat a parma (a chicken Parmigiana – schnitzel with cheese and tomato sauce on top) or a schnitzel with some chips (Aussie for French Fries).

Who you’ll meet

The guy you’re likely to meet in Australia loves his mum, cares too much about footy, enjoys a beer or three on a Friday night, and is loyal to his mates. The girl you’re likely to meet loves to shop, meet her friends for a cocktail, root for her favourite footy team, and spend time at the beach.

Where to meet people

You’ll meet tons of friendly Aussies no matter where you’re staying. But if you’re looking to meet people for a bit of romance, you might have to consider other options too. If you’re in Brisbane, you could visit this page. Wherever you’re staying, visit eHarmony to meet people who share your interests.

How to approach someone that catches your eye

Flash your best grin and go over and go over and say hello. Ask them if they’d like a beer or a flat white. Tell them you’re visiting from another country and, if you’re game, ask them to show you around town.

Etiquette and local customs

Aussies are a modest bunch. They never want to give the impression that they’re “up themselves” – that is, that they think they’re better than you or anyone else. And they don’t react too kindly to people who do so, so make sure you don’t spend too much time talking about your achievements.

We tend not to care about very formal greetings, so don’t feel the need to put on any airs or graces. There’s no need to address people by their last name – Aussies tend to be relaxed and informal.

Australians can be self-deprecating – again, they never want you to think they’re blowing their own trumpet (Aussie slang for talking too much about yourself) – but don’t make the mistake of agreeing with them. It’s just their sense of humour at play.

As the home to one of the earliest civilizations in Europe, Crete is steeped in history and culture. And with a landscape as rich and diverse as it’s history, it’s easy to see why around 2 million people will enjoy a Crete holiday.

With so much on offer, the choice can be overwhelming so here is a rundown of the best things to do in Crete so all you have to do is book your flights and sort out that all important holiday wardrobe.

Discover an Ancient Civilisation

As the epicentre of the Minoan civilisation, Knossos palace has stood on this site at Heraklion since around 1900 B.C. and making it an integral part of Greek History.

It is also a central part of Greek Mythology: it played host to Theseus’s fight with the Minotaur and housed Daedelus – the master craftsman of the Labrynth – and Icaurus his ill fated, wax-winged son. The impact that this palace has had on Western story telling cannot be underestimated.

First discovered by Sir Arthur Evans in 1900, this is an historical site definitely worth discovering for yourself on your Crete holidays in 2012.

If you want to delve deeper into the history of Crete, then head to the Heraklion Archeological Museum where you will find one of the largest collections of artefacts in Greece, from the Neolithic to Roman periods. However, if Mythology is more your thing then head up the Dicte Mountain range in East Crete and seek out the Dikteon Cave. This is reputed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the God of Gods.

Natural beauty at Samaria Gorge

One of Greece’s oldest National Parks, Samaria Gorge stretches 16km along the south coastal region of Chania and has been protected since 1692. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers keen to glimpse Greece’s flora and fauna in all their glory.

Visitors should be prepared for a long and challenging walk but rest assured, the views are worth it and dinner afterwards will be well deserved. Many who made the journey said it was one of the best things about their Crete holidays in 2012. So lace up your walking boots and head over to www.west-crete.com/samaria-gorge.htm for details on how to get there.

Relax in idyllic surroundings at Elafonissi Beach

No trip to Greece would be complete without the obligatory time spent on the beach. And this one is a real treat. With turquoise blue seas, pink sands and breathtaking sunsets, Elafonissi has to be seen to be believed. Situated on the west coast of the island, the beach is around an hour from Chania but is well worth the drive and the perfect place to relax after taking in all that history and nature.