ميلدورا ديكين سينما أوقات الدورة المعقدة الفوركس

بال ديس كونسكريتس دي بيس أون فوس بروبوس دي فينير فوس دتيندر أفيك نوس لي تمبس ديون سوير، كيو سي سويت فور فير ون بوس بيندانت فوس ريفيسيونس، دي سوفلر أبرس ليس إكسامنس، أو توس سيمبليمنت دي باسر. ) أون سي ريتروف دونك لي 30 ماي لا سال بوليفالنت دي بيس لا موسيك سيرا أسور بار إكستريميستيك ديسكو-موبيل إت لا بوفيت سيرا أو رينديز-فوس فيديمنت) أون فوس أنونس كيو بور ون غراند بارتي دنتر نوس أون سيرا إن مود دكومبريسيون إت أون سيرا دونك إن غراند، ترس غراند فورم. اقرأ المزيد 81 وقد وضعت إشارة مرجعية لهذا الحدث. تبدأ رحلتك الآن. استعادة كلمة المرور. حمل المحتويات فهم المناخ بالطائرة بالقطار بواسطة السيارة طرق عبر أديس أبابا بالحافلة الالتفاف حول عينة أسعار حافلة صغيرة عينة أسعار سيارة أجرة انظر هل تعلم العمل شراء الحصول على المال أكل الميزانية متوسط ​​المدى سبلورج شرب النوم ميزانية متوسطة المدى سبلورج البقاء آمنة كوب السفارات الهاتف الإنترنت عبر الهاتف النقال الإنترنت اللاسلكي الخروج أديس أبابا هي عاصمة إثيوبيا. ويبلغ عدد سكانها 3،384،569 (تعداد 2007)، المدينة هي الأكبر في البلاد. يعيش العديد من أغنى الناس في جنوب شرق (بول)، جنوب غرب (المطار القديم)، سمك، آيات ولامبيرت أجزاء من المدينة. وهناك أكثر من 120 بعثة وسفارة دولية في أديس أبابا، مما يجعل المدينة مركزا للدبلوماسية الدولية فيما يتعلق بأفريقيا. ويمكن العثور على مقر الاتحاد الأفريقي واللجنة الاقتصادية لأفريقيا التابعة للأمم المتحدة (أونيكا) في المدينة. يذكر ان الاتحاد الاوربى والولايات المتحدة لديهما وفدان فى اديس ابابا احدهما للعلاقات الثنائية مع اثيوبيا وواحد للاتحاد الافريقى. درجات الحرارة في أديس أبابا ثابتة بشكل ملحوظ من شهر لآخر. ويتراوح متوسط ​​القمم بين 17C (63F) و 22 C (71F). متوسط ​​الانخفاضات بين 11C (51F) و 14 C (58F). الأشهر الأكثر دفئا يجري من فبراير إلى مايو. درجات الحرارة والمناخ يمكن أن تختلف بسبب الارتفاع. نظرا لارتفاع هناك يوم كبير ليلا مجموعة من درجة الحرارة: في كثير من الأحيان 27C (81F) في وقت الغداء و 3 C (37F) ليلا: في أمسيات أديس دائما تأخذ طبقة ثانية معك. على متن طائرة مطار بول الدولي ()، أكثر المطارات ازدحاما في شرق أفريقيا ومحور الخطوط الجوية الإثيوبية، وتخدم من قبل العديد من شركات الطيران الدولية مع رحلات يومية إلى أوروبا والولايات المتحدة وآسيا وكذلك الوجهات الأفريقية الأفريقية بما في ذلك أكرا، باماكو، برازافيل، القاهرة، داكار، دار السلام، جيبوتي، الخرطوم، هراري، جوهانسبرغ، نيروبي والعديد من المدن في أفريقيا. هناك محطتان تسمى T1 (أصغر أصغر واحد) و T2 (المبنى الأحدث 2003). T1 هو لجميع الرحلات الداخلية ومعظم الرحلات الجوية إلى الدول المجاورة (ولكن ليس كينيا)، في حين T2 هو لجميع الرحلات الدولية الأخرى 8211 قد تتغير الترتيبات حتى تحقق أولا. بالقطار اعتبارا من يوليو / تموز 2011، فإن خط السكة الحديد يعمل فقط بين جيبوتي ودير داو، دون أي خدمة من وإلى أديس أبابا. بالسيارة بعض الطرق في حالة سيئة، لذلك ضع ذلك في الاعتبار عند تقدير الوقت بين الوجهات، ولكن معظم الطرق في حالة جيدة. طرق من خلال أديس أبابا أسمرة ديس N الطريق السريع 1 S إند أكسوم بحر دار N الطريق السريع 3 S إند إند N الطريق السريع 4 S نازرت جيبوتي غامبيلا الحديقة الوطنية غامبيلا دبليو الطريق السريع 5 E إند جيما جييون دبليو الطريق السريع 6 E إند القاهرة بهر دار N تاه 4 S نيروبي كيب تاون، بجانب، الباص أوتوبوس، تيرا، على مقربة من، ميركاتو. هذا هو محطة الحافلات الرئيسية حيث معظم الحافلات الوطنية تصل وتغادر. راس، ميكونين، سبيل، على مقربة من، ال التعريف، محطة السكة من الحديد. الحافلات من / إلى أداما (نازرت)، ديبر زيت، دير داوا، نيروبي، لاليبيلا، شاهمين، أواسا وباهير دار هنا. يوليو 2011 8211 أغلق رأس ماكونن 8211 أو لا جار 8211 وانتقل إلى مكان ما على طريق ديبري زيت. الحافلات غرب إلى نيكيمبت وما بعدها تذهب من أسكو على طريق أمبو القديم الالتفاف حول عينة أسعار الحافلات الصغيرة رحلات قصيرة جدا 1 إتب رحلات قصيرة 2-2،5 إتب رحلات متوسطة 4 إتب رحلات كبيرة 5،5 إتب رحلات كبيرة جدا 8 إتب عينة أسعار سيارات الأجرة رحلات قصيرة داخل منطقة واحدة 30 إتب رحلات قصيرة أخرى 40-50 إتب رحلات متوسطة 60-80 إتب رحلات كبيرة 80-150 إتب رحلات كبيرة جدا 150 إتب اعتبارا من يوليو 2011 عدد قليل جدا من الشوارع لها أسماء وعندما تفعل ذلك، قد لا يكون اسمه بشكل صحيح على خريطة استخدام المعالم للتنقل في المدينة. الحافلات الصغيرة الأزرق والأبيض / سيارات الأجرة السفر بكفاءة عالية في جميع أنحاء المدينة. لأنها مليئة بالناس أكثر من مرة، أنها رخيصة جدا أيضا عادة بين 1-3 بر اعتمادا على مدى أنت ذاهب. للقبض على حافلة صغيرة، والوقوف على جانب الطريق والبرد. ويمكن القيام بذلك في أي مكان من الممكن للحافلة لوقف. موصل داخل استدعاء الوجهة، وإذا كان هذا 8217s حيث تريد أن تذهب: الحصول على. كنت تدفع موصل عندما يشير لك أنه يريد المال (التي قد تستغرق بضع دقائق). للخروج من القول 8220woraj alle8221 ومن الجدير وجود دليل إثيوبي معك إذا كانت المرة الأولى التي تستخدم فيها هذه سيارات الأجرة، لأنه يمكن أن يكون من الفوضى تماما لمعرفة ما الحافلات الصغيرة تذهب إلى أين، ومن الأماكن (حتى السكان المحليين في بعض الأحيان الخلط ). ومن الجدير بالاسترخاء أنه إذا كنت مجرد الحصول على واحدة من هذه الحافلات، قد ينتهي بك الأمر في منتصف أي مكان. الناس ودية للغاية، ولكن لا ننسى أبدا أن هذا هو بلد فقير والحفاظ على عقد على محفظتك والهاتف. صغيرة، اللون الأزرق لادا سيارات الأجرة هي أكثر تكلفة. التفاوض هو القاعدة، وغالبا ما تضطر إلى الضغط من الصعب جدا للحصول على صفقة ك أجنبي. ويمكن التعاقد معهم لرحلة واحدة، ساعة، أو يوم كامل فقط التفاوض. لا يفاجأ إذا ارتفع سعر سيارة أجرة ليلا لنفس الرحلة. إذا كنت لا تريد الحصول على خدع، أتفق على السعر قبل أن تحصل في سيارة أجرة. يوليو 2011 أسعار سيارات الأجرة لسيارات الأجرة العقد في المربع هنا هي طريقة قديمة. المطار إلى المدينة الآن 100-150 بير. سيارات الأجرة الصفراء والأخضر عادة ما تتوقف حول الفنادق مثل شيراتون. فهي أكثر تكلفة، ولكن يمكن الاعتماد عليها، وإذا كنت على استعداد لدفع ثمن راحة البال، 8217re أفضل قليلا السائقين والسيارة التي wasn8217t ظهرت في فلينستون، استخدام هذه السيارات. المشي في أديس أبابا هو وسيلة ممتعة ومعقولة للالتفاف حولها. سوف السكان المحليين أحييكم بسعادة، أطلب منكم كيف تقومون به وهلم جرا. المتسولين والأطفال يمكن أن يكون أكثر قليلا الثابتة واتبع لكم قليلا، لكنها نادرا ما وقحا وعادة ما تكون سعيدة جدا لرؤية الأجانب. إذا كان شخص ما يمس لك، كن حذرا جدا لأنها قد اتخذت للتو محفظتك أو الهاتف أو المال. الناس لا تلمس عادة لك في الشوارع، لذلك كن حذرا عندما يفعلون. انظر المشي على طول الشارع بدءا من ميدان ميسكيل. إلى سيديست كيلو هو مريح جدا ومسلية. وسوف تعطيك الفرصة لرؤية قاعة أفريقيا والقصور ومبنى البرلمان، فندق هيلتون، مغامرة معمارية رائعة من مبنى يستضيف وزارة الخارجية، فندق شيراتون، المدرسة الحديثة الأولى (التي منليك الثاني الذي بني في ثمانينات القرن التاسع عشر)، وكاتدرائية الثالوث الأرثوذكسية، والمتحف الوطني، وجامعة أديس أبابا (التي تستضيف أيضا قصر ومتحف سابقين). يتميز شارع آرات الكيلو بتمثال بني في الاحتفال باليوم الخامس الإثيوبي خلال الحرب العالمية الثانية، في حين يتميز شارع سيديست كيلو بتمثال لإحياء ذكرى 39،000 من سكان أديس أبابا الذين قتلتهم القوات الفاشية الإيطالية. حول آرات كيلو، وسوف تجد جزءا من بلدة قديمة تعرف باسم سيراتغنا سيفير (حرفيا، المنطقة السكنية للعمال). إذا كنت ترغب في المضي قدما الماضي سيدست كيلو، الطريق يصبح أكثر انحدارا والكثير من مناطق الجذب ستكون على الجانب الأيمن من الطريق. تم العثور على كلية إنتوتو (سابقا مدرسة تيفيري ميكونن) والسفارة الأمريكية على هذا الجانب من الشارع. بعد السفارة الأميركية هناك سوق مفتوحة تسمى شيرو ميدا حيث الحرفيين التقليديين يبيعون الأقمشة المصنوعة في المنزل والأواني وغيرها من الحرف اليدوية. يقع السوق عند سفح جبال إنتوتو التي ترتفع إلى 3،300 متر (10،827 قدم) فوق مستوى سطح البحر. يمكنك أن تأخذ سيارة أجرة أو حافلة إلى الجبل إلا إذا كنت من العقل لمحاولة ذلك بنفسك. على الجبل، وسوف تجد الكنائس الأولى من أديس أبابا دعا سانت ماري وسانت راجل وكذلك قصر أصغر من منليك الثاني. المشي على الجبل، وخاصة بين الكنائس هو منعش ويعطيك فرصة لرؤية الحياة الريفية، والمدينة نفسها، والغابات والمناظر الطبيعية الجميلة بشكل لا يصدق تتقاطع مع الأراضي الزراعية والممرات من المزارعين. ومن هنا تصور مينليك الثاني والملكة تايتو إنشاء أديس أبابا. يمكنك الحصول على شعور من خطة المدينة نفسك من خلال النظر من هنا في المدينة الحالية. المتحف الوطني الإثيوبي (بين شارع آرات كيلو وجامعة أديس أبابا كلية الدراسات العليا) متحف الإرهاب الأحمر (2010). على طريق بول جدا جدا بالقرب من نهاية مسكال. حر. حول أولئك الذين فقدوا أرواحهم في ديرغ تايمز. ممتاز. (قاعة نيقوسيا) كنيسة القديس جورج (شمال شارع تشرشل) مسجد أنور الكاثوليكية الرومانية كاثوليكية العائلة المقدسة مينليك ناتيونال باليس المتحف الإثيوبي الوطني المتحف الإثيوبي الإثنيولوجي متحف أديس أبابا متحف التاريخ الوطني الإثيوبي المتحف السويدي الأثيوبي المتحف الوطني للبريد كاتدرائية الثالوث المقدس غولا St. مايكل تشورش (انظر) في وسط المدينة (بجانب مكتب الهجرة الاتحادي) ميزات أخرى للمدينة تشمل سوق ميركاتو الكبير ومضمار سباق جان ميدا ريس غروند ومركز بيهير تسيج الترفيهي وخط سكك حديدية إلى جيبوتي بينما تبدأ جبال إنتوتو بين الضواحي الشمالية. يقع مسرح هاجر فيكير، أقدم مسرح في إثيوبيا، في حي بيازا. تشمل ضواحي المدينة شيرو ميدا و إنتوتو في الشمال و أوريل و بولي (موطن مطار بولي الدولي) في الشرق و نيفاس سيلك في الجنوب الشرقي و ميكانيسا في الجنوب و كيرانيو و كولف في الغرب. هل جان مودا سباق الأرض. مركز بيهير تسيج الترفيهي. نادي أديس أبابا للجولف. إنتوتو جبل: سيرا على الأقدام من كنيسة سانت ماري، أول كنيسة في أديس وكنيسة سانت أوريل ورؤية المدينة نفسها من أعلى الجبل. حديقة حيوان الأسد: بالقرب من جامعة أديس أبابا تعلم جامعة أديس أبابا هي أكبر وأقدم جامعة في إثيوبيا. وكان اسمه في الأصل 8220 جامعة كلية أديس أبابا 8221 في تأسيسها، ثم سميت للإمبراطورية الإثيوبية السابقة هيلا سيلاسي الأول في عام 1962، وتلقي اسمها الحالي في عام 1975. على الرغم من أن الجامعة لديها ستة من سبعة فروعها داخل أديس أبابا (السابع يقع في ديبر زيت، على بعد 45 كيلومترا تقريبا)، كما أنها تحتفظ بفروع في العديد من المدن في جميع أنحاء إثيوبيا، مما أدى إلى ادعاء كونها 8220 أكبر جامعة في أفريقيا 82212 الحكومة تعين الطلاب المؤهلين لهذه الجامعات عند الانتهاء من المدرسة الثانوية. ويحضر الطلاب أيضا كليات خاصة أخرى، مثل كلية الوحدة. تأسست جامعة أديس أبابا في عام 1950 بناء على طلب من هايلي سيلاسي من قبل اليسوعية الكندية، الدكتور لوسيان ماتي ككلية لمدة عامين، وبدأت عمليات العام المقبل. على مدى العامين التاليين تم تطوير انتماء مع جامعة لندن. وهناك أيضا كلية لاهوتية للثالوث الثالوث، وهي مدرسة لاهوتية للتعليم العالي تقع في أديس أبابا، إثيوبيا. وهو يوفر التعليم الديني والعلماني لكل من رجال الدين والأعضاء العاديين من الكنيسة الأرثوذكسية الإثيوبية، وكذلك تسعى إلى أن تكون مركزا للدراسة اللاهوتية والكنسية لجميع الكنائس الأرثوذكسية الشرقية كذلك. تأسست في الأصل كمدرسة ثانوية من قبل الإمبراطور هيلا سيلاسي في عام 1942، تمت إضافة قسم الكلية في 5 أكتوبر 1960، والقضاء على قسم التعليم الابتدائي في 18 ديسمبر 1961 وأصبحت الكلية واحدة من الوحدات المستأجرة من هذه الجامعة الوطنية الأولى في إثيوبيا. العمل هناك ارتفاع الطلب على المهنيين تكنولوجيا المعلومات. العديد من الشركات المبتدئة البحث عن الأفراد مع شبكات الكمبيوتر والاستشارات الخلفية. ولدى أديس أبابا أكبر عدد من المنظمات غير الحكومية 8217 في أفريقيا، وربما في بلدان العالم الثالث بأكملها في العالم. وهي معروفة جيدا بدفع رواتب جيدة لموظفيها. معدل البطالة في أديس منخفض وفقا لنزرت) 8 من سكان أديس أبابا عاطلون عن العمل حاليا () 2008 (يعمل العديد من المغتربين في المنظمات غير الحكومية وشركات تكنولوجيا المعلومات الصغيرة الناشئة. وبالمقارنة مع مدن أفريقية أخرى، يوجد في أديس أبابا عدد كبير من مدارس التدريب على الحاسوب الكبيرة والمتوسطة والصغيرة الحجم ومؤسسات التعليم الحكومية والخاصة. العديد من الطلاب الذين يحضرون هناك الأمل في الهبوط وظيفة تكنولوجيا المعلومات أو الاستشارات، في سوق العمل النادرة جدا من المدينة. شراء ميركاتو. ميركاتو هي أكبر سوق في الهواء الطلق في العالم، ويمكنك الحصول على أي شيء من السلع السياحية (تي شيرت والحرف الخشبية، وما إلى ذلك) إلى النسيج إلى السلع المعدنية هناك. المساومة والمساومة هي إجراءات موحدة، والأجانب (وخاصة من أصل الأوروبي) يجب أن نتوقع أن يتم فرض أسعار أعلى. لضمان تجربة إيجابية، والحفاظ على روح الفكاهة، don8217t يكون خائفا للتفاوض بقوة، وقبل كل شيء don8217t تدع نفسك تخويف من قبل العديد من 8220brokers8221 الذين تكرارا السوق، وسوف نحاول توجيه لكم نحو مخازن معينة في مقابل ركلة - back من التاجر. سوف تكون قادرا على التفاوض على انخفاض الأسعار إذا كنت تستطيع تجنب السماسرة، وخاصة إذا كان لديك صديق محلي أو دليل لشراء الأشياء نيابة عنك. سوبر ماركت الصداقة. بول الطريق (مطار نهاية). جيدا مخزنة على الطراز الغربي سوبرماركت 8211 وأنها تقبل فيزا. (كلاهما لن يتم تأكيده في أغسطس 2011). إدنا مول على تيليبول. ديمبل مركز المدينة جيتو المركز التجاري أديس شيراتون التسوق مركز التسوق الموالي أرات كيلو مركز التسوق بياسا مركز التسوق بامبيس متجر، تديرها سيدة إيطالية، منتج جيد جدا سوبر ماركت نيويورك، بالقرب من بولي أوليمبيا شوا سوبر ماركت على بولي طريق. سوبرماركت نوفيس على طريق بولي، بالقرب من الصداقة الحصول على أجهزة الصراف الآلي / ماكينات الصراف الآلي 8211 توجد في جميع أنحاء أديس أبابا. داشين بنك هو عضو رئيسي في كل من فيزا وماستركارد الدولية ونشرت 55 أجهزة الصراف الآلي في أديس أبابا وحول الاستشهادات الرئيسية مثل بهردار، غوندر، ميكيل، أواسا، ديسيز، نازريث، دير داوا وحرار. بعض أجهزة الصراف الآلي الموجودة في برج D. H. جيدا (بجوار مركز مدينة الصداقة) تقبل كل من فيسا و ماستركارد، مركز مدينة ديمبل (مخفي تماما، استخدام المدخل الرئيسي، من اليسار إلى النافذة)، إدنا مول. في بعض الفنادق (هيلتون، شيراتون، انتركونتيننتال، وابي شيبيل فندق، إثيوبيا فندق، فندق سيمين، فندق هارموني). أيضا بالقرب من المتحف الوطني (لوسي غازيبو مطعم)، الطابق الأرضي من مركز جيتو التجاري فقط عند المدخل وبعض فروع مصرف داشن يرجى ملاحظة أنه لا يتم قبول جميع البطاقات في كل مكان، وأجهزة الصراف الآلي مصرف داشن تقبل فيزا / ماستركارد / سيروس / زائد. أجهزة الصراف اآللي لدى البنك المركزي اآلن مدعومة دوليا ولديها شاشة تعمل باللمس. هيلتون هو أفضل مكان لتغيير / الحصول على المال. لديها 4 أجهزة الصراف الآلي (خارج قرب صالونات الشعر) والداخل في الطابق الأرضي اثنين من البنوك، نيب و المتحدة، لديها مكاتب العملات الأجنبية التي هي سريعة جدا لتغيير النقدية بالعملة الصعبة. ولكن 8211 المشاكل مرة أخرى مع الشيكات المسافرين يونيو 2011 نقدا على بطاقات الائتمان في بنك داشن في شيراتون ولكن في 6 و US500 كحد أقصى يوميا. من الصعب الحصول على شيكات المسافرين في أديس أبابا. البنوك في هيلتون لن تقبل بها في أبريل 2009. بنك الحبشة في فيلوها / ملعب ونهاية مدينة بولي أردي هي أيضا جيدة. هناك سوق سوداء حيث يمكنك الحصول على سعر أفضل قليلا، وخاصة إذا كنت المساومة، والتحقق من أموالك بعناية قبل أن تغادر ولا تسمح لها أن تترك يدك بعد العد النهائي الخاص بك. معظم محلات بيع التذكارات قبالة طريق تشرشل وزامبيا ست تفعل ذلك. يعمل الصراف الآلي في المطار في منطقة الهجرة بجوار البنوك. يناير 2011 هناك أجهزة الصراف الآلي المتاحة في مطار بولي على الجانب الأيسر من الخروج الجمارك (حوالي 10M بعيدا).NOT بعد السلكية في يناير كانون الثاني عام 2011. داشين البنك هو واحد إنشاء شبكة أتم أوسع حتى نرى موقعه على الانترنت لمواكبة التاريخ في المطار البنك المركزي البريطاني هو في منطقة المطالبة الأمتعة من قاعة القادمين. أكل الغذاء عموما رخيصة. تأكد من محاولة طبق إنجيرا الوطني مرة واحدة على الأقل، لأنه لا يوجد أي طعام آخر مثل ذلك. بل هو الخبز المسطح الخميرة ارتفع مع فريدة من نوعها، والملمس الاسفنجي قليلا. وهي مصنوعة تقليديا من الدقيق تيف. في صنع إنجيرا، يتم خلط دقيق الدقيق مع الماء ويسمح للتخمير لعدة أيام، كما هو الحال مع بداية الحساء. نتيجة لهذه العملية، إنجيرا لديه طعم الحامض إلى حد ما. It8217s ما يأكل السكان المحليين لتناول الإفطار والغداء والعشاء. معظم المطاعم الإثيوبية العادية لديها، وخدمة لشخصين مع عبوات مجانية يمكن أن تكون رخيصة مثل 15 بير. الميزانية أديس لديها مئات من المقاهي كعكة والقهوة. يبيعون مختلف القهوة والشاي 8211 الأسود إلا إذا كنت تسأل عن 8220machiatto8221 8211 وأحيانا عصير الفواكه. هناك أيضا عصير عصير. المقاهي على طول الطريق بول وحول منطقة بياسا هي على مستوى عال وغير مكلفة نسبيا. معظمها متشابهة جدا لبعضها البعض. معظم المقاهي تخدم المشروب المشترك يسمى 8216sprice juice8217 (وهو مجرد لب الفاكهة خدم في طبقات في كوب). هناك عادة ثلاث طبقات من مجموعة مختارة من الأفوكادو والمانجو والبابايا والموز والجوافة الخ يؤكل عصير مع ملعقة. فمن الملونة والأذواق لذيذة. عصائر الفاكهة واحدة هي أيضا كبيرة، مثل البرتقال والبابايا والمانجو والأناناس 8211 الطازجة طازجة. 7 بير تصل إلى 25 بير في هيلتون. يقدم مقهى تشوكولاتا أون فيكتوري رود (بالقرب من شوبرس مارت سوبر ماركت) المشروبات والوجبات الخفيفة وهو لطيف جدا. جميع الموظفين هم من بنات الشوارع السابقة والبغايا الذين يحاولون جعل شيء من حياتهم. يقدم مقهى سيتي على بول الكعك والمعجنات اللذيذة بالإضافة إلى القهوة الإسبريسو الإثيوبية عالية الجودة. يمكنك الجلوس على الشرفة ومشاهدة النشاط على أحد الطرق الرئيسية في أديس. ال التعريف، المسرح الوطني، البناية، على النهاية من، تشرشل، Ave. أسعار معقولة والطعام الجيد. من إنجيرا إلى نادي ساندوهيتش. المطاعم التي ليس لديها قائمة اللغة الإنجليزية هي أرخص. مثال: اتصال بين طريق بول و تيلي-بول، بجانب دوار بولي، في نوك-فويلستاتيون، بالقرب من كانتين الألمانية. يمكنك تناول الغداء (الطعام المحلي، السباغيتي) لمدة أقل من 20 بير. إذا كان لديك don8217t مترجم، يأمر الكثير من المرح. متوسطة المدى هابيشا بولي الطريق. يقدم هذا المطعم الثقافي الغناء التقليدي والرقص في الليل. إذا كنت 8217re شعور شجاع، في محاولة غوريد غوريد (مكعبات مملحة بشكل كبير ولحم البقر النيء متبل). النوادل مهيأة بشكل جيد ونوع، ومعظمهم من الراقصات الموهوبين جدا. ميدا بار أند غريل وجدت على الطريق من استاد أديس أبابا إلى غوتيرا في جميع أنحاء لانشا. هو أفضل مكان حيث يمكنك الاسترخاء، وتناول الطعام والحصول على سهولة. وهو بار ومطعم جميل في المدينة المعروفة لأنها نظيفة وفم وجبة سقي مع العديد من التحديدات من الكوكتيل وبار النبيذ. إنه مكان لا تفوت في أديس. فريق ميني بول الطريق. هذا ودية، عالية الجودة 8220cultural8221 مطعم يقدم الطعام الاثيوبي التقليدي. تأكد من محاولة بيزيغا ميسير (اللحوم البرية مع العدس). في الليل، يتميز فريق ميني بالعروض من قبل المطربين والراقصين التقليديين. الترفيه ليست جيدة كما في هابيشا، ولكن الطعام بشكل عام أفضل. ذي ليميتري بول رود، بوسطن بارتنرز بيلدينغ. في حين الطعام الاثيوبي لذيذ هناك يأتي الوقت الذي قد ترغب في محاولة شيء آخر. و ليمتري يعادل العشاء صغير في الولايات. لديهم قائمة واسعة، بدءا من الغذاء العربي إلى الاثيوبية. لديهم الاتساق الذي من الصعب جدا أن تجد هنا. لديهم العلامة التجارية الخاصة بهم من القهوة، وهو نسخة أكثر مرارة من القهوة الاثيوبية العامة تجد، ولكن إذا كان هذا نداء اليكم ثم لا يمكنك العثور على هذه القهوة في أي مكان آخر. سيشو: تشرشل الجادة، من قبل البنك الوطني. تمر من خلال وزارة التنمية الحضرية والبناء والرابطة الإثيوبية المعلمين 8217. البرغر رائع، والسلطات لطيفة والعصائر. مصممة مثل غرف معيشة، مع مكتبة صغيرة. أنها على الانترنت خدمة القهوة الأمريكية. مطبخ أديس. وولو سيفر. بول نهاية الطريق الصداقة الصينية الاثيو، على الجانب الشمالي من 6 طريق حارة. جيد الغذاء الغربي والإثيوبي. كنعان، من دوار المطار، أسفل الطريق بول، واتخاذ طريق صغير على اليسار (قبل بولي ميني). البيتزا لطيفة جدا. أقل من منتصف المدى، أكثر قليلا من الميزانية بيتزا ديلي روما 8211 ديلي روما هي سلسلة مع 3 مواقع على الأقل. بولي الطريق، قادمة من المطار، انتقل إلى اليمين (تمرير نادي أليزي)، بعد حوالي 50M على الجانب الأيمن الطريق بول على الجانب الأيسر على الطريق من مبنى ديمبل إلى ساحة مسكال. واحدة من أفضل البيتزا في المدينة. ليكويد لونج تقع في أبراج نيجست بالقرب من فندق إنتركونتيننتال في كازانشس، وقد اتخذت النهج أن الناس يريدون وجبة غداء سريعة ولكن لذيذة مع الكثير من التنوع. الطبخ في الهواء الطلق على مقلب ووك يسمح لك لتجميع الأطباق الخاصة بك، في حين أن قائمة الانتقائية علاء يقدم عدد قليل من البرغر والسندويشات وغيرها من البنود المناسبة الغداء. الأجزاء هي الحجم لملء لكم، وإذا كنت ترغب في وجبة غداء أخف حساء اليوم، أو أي شيء من القائمة تاباس سوف أترك لكم الانتظار لتناول طعام الغداء في اليوم التالي. الغذاء يبقى كبيرا خلال الليل والنهار ولكن الجو يتغير من غداء فناء عارضة مع شواء في الهواء الطلق ومشروع البيرة خلال النهار إلى أكثر الورك، صالة عارضة أنيقة في الليل. مطعم سبلورج فيشرمان شارع ميكي ليلاند، بالقرب من فندق أطلس. هو مطعم نصف صيني، نصف تبتي يقدم مجموعة ممتازة من المأكولات الآسيوية والمتخصصة في المأكولات البحرية. مطعم علاء الدين بول رواندا. يقدم المأكولات الشرق أوسطية. مكلفة للغاية ولكن أصيلة ولذيذة. كاستليس في بيازا. أعلى مطعم إيطالي هنا منذ عام 1942. مع الضيوف الشهيرة مثل أنجلينا جولي، وبراد بيت، وهناك سبب أن Castelli8217s تمكن من رسم في مثل هذا الحشد. طعام مدهش، والحلويات مذهلة، والدعوة للحجز أو خطر خيبة الأمل، حتى في وقت الغداء، وهذا هو مكان عصري أن ينظر إليها. مطعم توب فيو. مطار بولي الماضي بالقرب من غوتارا. طعام جيد جدا ولكن يمكن أن تكون مكلفة لتناول وجبة العشاء. مطعم غرين فيو الإيطالي / مطعم بيتزا بول شارع ميكي ليلاند، بالقرب من فندق أطلس. للحصول على بيتزا ممتازة في أديس. هناك موقع آخر بالقرب سمك. مطعم سيريناد. في منطقة أمست كيلو، بالقرب من مدرسة الناصرة. سوف تحتاج إلى تحفظ. مدهش كوز كوز، ولكن مكان صعب للعثور عليها. هذا له تأثير الشرق الأوسط، ولكن الحلويات الغربية ومدهشة. ليكويد لونج: تيبانياكي، بار أند غريل أحدث تجربة طعام في أديس (2011) الطعام لا تشوبها شائبة. لحم البقر هو اليدين أسفل أفضل في أديس، بغض النظر إذا كنت من أجل تيبس أو لحم البقر ساتاي. كما أن لديهم سوشي طازج كل يوم. هذا المكان يتضمن الطعام الياباني، تاباس (لوحات المقبلات) وطهي تيبانياكي حيث الطهاة المدربين اليابانية الطهاة أمامك. المطبخ مفتوح طوال الليل. والمثير للدهشة، وتحصل على أكثر ثم تدفعه هنا. 82218217 مطعم سانجام: أفضل مكان لتناول الطعام والحلويات الهندية. الأحمال متنوعة مع الأرز، تشاباتي، نان. جو لطيف وسعر جيد جدا. تقع على طول طريق بول قبل مركز تجاري غيتو مباشرة. شرب إذا كنت ترغب في شرب المشروب الوطني لإثيوبيا، لديك لمحاولة 8216tej8217 الذي يخمر من العسل. يمكنك أيضا محاولة 8216tela8217 الذي هو مثل البيرة. ليكويد لاونج تيبانياكي (الطعام المطبوخ أمامك) هو تجربة الطعام الأكثر إثارة في أديس. أنها توفر السوشي الطازجة المستوردة كل يوم. هذا المكان هو عصري جدا، لديهم مناطق كبار الشخصيات الطابق العلوي. في عطلة نهاية الأسبوع يحصل مشغول. يقع فندق أبارتمنتس نايجيست تويرس في كازانشس (بجوار فندق انتركونتيننتال)، وهو الصالة في الشارع من مبنى بوسطن داي سبا. الشيشة والمشروبات بأسعار متواضعة والغلاف الجوي هو جدا 8220 توركيش 8221، يجعل ليلة الاسترخاء لطيفة. عفوي هذا المكان، it8217s قليلا تشغيل أسفل الطابق العلوي حيث شريط هو والنرجيلة، ولكن البيتزا جيدة. غاسليت هو ملهى ليلي يتوهم في شيراتون. في الداخل، فإنه يشعر وكأنه ديسكو الغربية الراقي. دون 8217t ارتداء الجينز أو المدربين / أحذية رياضية، كما لديهم قانون اللباس صارمة إلى حد ما. على الرغم من عدم وجود رسوم الدخول، تكون على استعداد لدفع مبالغ كبيرة للمشروبات. مذكرة هذا النادي هو شعبية لجو في وقت متأخر من الليل. مليئة 8216working girls8217 هذا النادي هو واحد من عدد قليل أن التهم القبول وتحذر من السعر الذي تهمة لكم عن المشروبات. ولكن الموسيقى بصوت عال وجيد، والمطبخ مفتوح في وقت متأخر ويجعل ليلة عظيمة. نادي عميق رسوم الغطاء صغيرة، ولكن المشروبات غير مكلفة. ومع ذلك فمن الأفضل أن لا تذهب إلى الحمامات هنا لأنها قذرة وراء الاعتقاد. يحتوي ميدا سبورتس بار أند غريل على بار كبير وواسع مريح للدردشة أو مشاهدة لعبة. توفر صالة الطابق السفلي مكانا أكثر حميمية لإجراء محادثات هادئة. و في الطابق العلوي، و دور علوي لديه أجواء مريحة، عارضة الطعام. الورد الأسود الجو النشط مظلم ومريح وعصري، ويقدم البار مجموعة متنوعة من المشروبات. جلسة المربى الجاز الحية في أديس كل ليلة الخميس. الإلهي على بول الطريق في الطابق العلوي من شيغر البيت، ويتميز قائمة التشغيل الغربية الموجهة جدا جنبا إلى جنب مع مساحة واسعة للاسترخاء وقاعة الرقص ضخ في عطلة نهاية الأسبوع. بيلاموس في الطابق العلوي من مبنى نوفيس على طريق بولي هو النادي الذي يتميز المشهد السالسا نابضة بالحياة من المستغرب في عطلة نهاية الأسبوع. بيلاموس لديها الموسيقى الحية كل يوم سبت (الصخور الناعمة، السالسا، رامب الخ 8230) والفرقة جيدة بشكل مدهش. ومع ذلك، يعتبر هذا النادي نهاية أقل، أكثر استهدافا لأولئك الذين لديهم ميزانية محدودة / طلاب الجامعات. دوم كلوب (كونكورد) ديبري زيت رود، أديس أبابا. لزجة ومظلمة، وأكثر من شريط الغوص / النادي. الأوهام مكان للرقص حتى 5:00. مزدحمة جدا في عطلة نهاية الأسبوع، بعد أن يضيف إلى سحرها. النوم يرجى ملاحظة أن العديد من الأسعار أدناه هي بضع سنوات من العمر، هل يمكن أن نتوقع أن يكون كل شيء على الأقل مرتين أكثر تكلفة فندق بارك، ورخيصة ابتداء من 20 بير، غرف aren8217t نظيفة تماما فندق فيلوها، بالقرب من الينابيع الساخنة، هاتف 251 11 511404. فندق فين-فين، مقابل فندق فيلوها. هاوي، ديبري زيت رود، جنوب وسط المدينة. فندق هوليداي، هايلي جيبريزيلاسي رود بالقرب من فندق بلازا. يوردانوس هوتل، هايلي جيبريزيلاسي رود، تيل 251 11 515711، فاكس 251 11 516655. فندق تايتو، بيازا، مقابل مقر سلطة اليانصيب الوطنية رئيس، لديهم ملحق مع غرف رخيصة (الزوجي من بير 45)، ولكن عليك أن تطلب صراحة لذلك. قيمة ممتازة مقابل المال، هادئة جدا، ولكن المراحيض والدش هي في حالة حقير. المبنى الرئيسي هو أقدم بناء الحجر في أديس. في بناء الحجز لديهم 8220 ساعة واحدة في الغرف 8221، لذلك نتوقع أصواتا غريبة عند النوم في هذا المبنى. فندق وركو بيكيلا. على بعد حوالي 20 كيلومترا جنوب غرب أديس أبابا، في دوكيم، فندق مزدهر لميزانية للمسافرين متوسطة المدى. بارو هوتل، بيازا، من بير 95 (مفردة) 130 (مزدوجة)، نقطة التقاء المسافرين الحقيقيين (كل من سيحضر عبر أديس أبابا سيظهر عاجلا أو آجلا هناك 8230) وفناء رائع وموظفين ودودين جدا ومطعم في الموقع، والماء الساخن في الغالب في الصباح. الديكور القديم وضيق، ولكن قيمة لائق. هم الآن يأخذون فيزا بدون عمولة. تيل 8211 251-11-155-14 47 أو 011-157-41-57 الفاكس 8211 251-11-553 74 39 البريد الإلكتروني 8211 abenetbaro. et (لا يفحصون سوى البريد الإلكتروني بضع مرات في الأسبوع، وربما لا 8220 متأكدا فعليا 8221 الحجز حتى تصل إلى هناك على أي حال، على الرغم من أن 8217s القضية حتى لو كنت الهاتف بدلا من ذلك.) فندق ووتما، ساحة (عبر فندق بارو)، من بير 100 (واحد)، وليس أفضل بكثير الغرف من بارو وأقل شركة. فندق أبريهامز، بيازا، من بير 25 (واحد)، تفريغ ولكن لديها غرف عندما يتم حجز الآخرين تماما. ميدل إيست أكسوم، هايلي جيبريزيلاسي رود، تيل 251 11 188832. غ غوست هاوس شارع سيراليون (على بعد ميل من ساحة مسكل) 251-922-451639، (غغستهوس) بالو، بالقرب من بيازا. بير غاردن إن بفيت دي لا غير 251 11 517888، فاكس: 251 11 515959، ديساليغن هوتل 251 11 624524، إيثيو كومفورت غوست هاوس جيرجي أريا، بول المدينة الفرعية، هاوس No.234، 251 11 629 5546، (إثيوكومفورتغزتوس /) ماسكال فندق زهرة، بالقرب من طريق ديبر زيت، الهاتف 251 11 517187. السياحة، بالقرب من القصر الكبير وكاتدرائية ترينيتي. مارتن 8217s كوزي المكان: جيرمان غزتوس يقع بالقرب من أطلس (تقريبا مقابل الجانب من الفندق) هو المفضل لرجال الأعمال أو المغتربين اضطرار إلى إقامة أنفسهم في أديس. يقدم مارتن مجموعة من الخدمات للسياح ويعد مكانا رائعا للإقامة لعدة ليال. يكلف حوالي بير 150/170/250 مفردة / مزدوجة / ثلاثية أو 345 لغرفة عائلية. بورغينفيلير غوست هاوس إثيوباتاجاز 251 911 627898. لديه غرف صغيرة ولكنها نظيفة والرياضية هايلي جيبري سيلاسي شقيقة، أزالتيش جيبري سيلاسي يقدم الضيافة لطيفة. تحتاج إلى الحجز مقدما. ييلما هوتل، في منطقة 8220Mekanessa8221 في أديس. هذا الفندق هو حوالي US25 لليلة الواحدة للسياح. لديهم مطعم / مقهى ممتاز مع تلفزيون الكابل الذي يلعب الأخبار والقنوات الرياضية وتقديم الطعام حتى 10 PM-11PM. الموظفين لطيف جدا ودية. لديهم خدمة الغرف دون أي رسوم إضافية. الغرف صغيرة ولكن تحتوي على حمامات لائقة مع سخانات المياه الساخنة للدش، ومراحيض الدش، والأرضيات المبلطة. نسأل عن 8220Fish8221 مدير وسوف يكون بالتأكيد أن تعامل بشكل جيد. Z غوست هاوس. يقع هذا الفندق الجميل الذي تديره عائلة في منطقة سكنية هادئة في أديس أبابا، ويوفر غرفا نظيفة وشققا مفروشة جميلة مع مطابخ مجهزة تجهيزا كاملا وتلفازا بقنوات فضائية. يبدأ في 29.95 / ليلة لجناح واحد. ويقع على بعد أقل من ميل واحد من بياسا، على بعد حوالي 12 دقيقة فقط من المطار. غرف راس واحدة تكلف حوالي 120br دامو-دامو هوتل. سبلورج أديس أبابا هيلتون. سينترال منليك أفي، تيل. 251 11 518400، فاكس 251 11 510064. يحتوي فندق هيلتون على العديد من وسائل الراحة التي تتوقعها في فندق عالمي (وكلاء الطيران، تغيير المال، مطعم، بار، صالة ألعاب رياضية، ساونا، حمام سباحة، إنترنت عالي السرعة)، ولكن ذلك هو 8217s متواضعة نوعا ما ، لذلك لا ننسى أبدا you8217re لا يزال في العالم النامي. كاريرا لودج، شارع روزفلت، هاتف 251 11 517400، 251 11 447400. فندق ديميتري. يقع هذا الفندق في منطقة مدينة يكا الحديثة في محيط هادئ، وقد افتتح في عام 2008، ويقدم غرفا فاخرة والعديد من الخدمات المجانية، مثل خدمة الإنترنت اللاسلكي في الغرف والقنوات التلفزيونية الفضائية الممتازة. فارو هوتل، تل 251 11 6621186. العلامة التجارية الجديدة الاثيوبية / اليورو 8220boutique8221 فندق على بعد دقائق فقط من مطار بولي، بول روك جيم، بوسطن داي سبا، مركز الصداقة ومطعم ليم شجرة 8212 موقع رائع لقاعدة نفسك من. المملوكة للمرأة، مع الموظفين الترحيب. ميزات الإنترنت في كل غرفة ومطبخ صغير في كل غرفة، مع حمامات جديدة تشمل وحدات دش البخار الحديثة وأسرة جديدة مريحة جدا مع لحافات. سعر 100 دولار لليلة الواحدة بالإضافة إلى 25 ضريبة ورسوم الخدمة. تحتوي مرافق الطعام الكاملة على بار أمبير عصير في اللوبي، وسوف يكون قريبا حمام سباحة على السطح. طلب غرفة مع وجهة نظر والحصول على الاجتياح لالتقاط الأنفاس من جنوب اديس ابابا مع الجبال في الخلفية. العديد من الفنادق الصغيرة تتطلب دفع نقدا 8212 يأخذ فارو نقدا أو فيزا. غيون. وسط مينليك أفي بالقرب من مسكال / أبيوت سكوير، تيل 251 11 513222، 251 11 443170. إنه ليس على منليك أفي. ويقع على رأس داستا دامتو خارج ميدان مسكال. الفندق الدولي، قلب المدينة، على مقربة من، البداية، بسبب، بول، رود. حوالي US40 في الليلة الواحدة. نظيفة وغرف ضخمة مع غرفة معيشة وغرفة نوم منفصلة، ​​وتشمل العديد من الحمامات حوض استحمام كبير. الموظفين لطيف جدا وتحتوي الغرف على شرفات هائلة تطل على المناطق الخضراء المفتوحة في فندق شيراتون، فضلا عن إطلالات على جبل. إنتوتو. مكان عظيم للبقاء إذا كنت في حاجة إلى سهولة الوصول إلى مطار بولي دون المخاطرة تأخير حركة المرور. Upwards of US65 for a single, US85 for a small double, payment in cash only, no Visa (2008 prices) Jupiter Internationa Hotel Bole 251 11 661696 Cazanchise 251 11 5526418, (jupiterinternationalhotel) Price: US90-200 Ras, Church Rd just North of the railway station, tel 251 11 517060, 251 11 447060. One of the oldest hotels in Addis. Panorama Hotel, Nice, clean rooms starting at US59 per night. 4 star dining and bar. Very nice lobby area. Sheraton Addis Central Yohanis St, 251 11 5171717, fax: 251 11 5172727, (starwoodhotels/luxury/property/overview/index. htmlpropertyID149) Stay safe Addis is safer than most cities in Africa. Gang violence and similar serious activities are unusual. However, you may encounter some pick-pockets and con-artists around and inside Bole Airport, Mercato, Piazza areas. Keep your belongings close, and pay attention to your surroundings. The good news is most of these pick-pockets are unarmed and very young boys. If they know that you are aware of what they are up to, they get intimidated and go away. The major and important roads and areas are patrolled by the 8216Federal Police8217 or, as the city residents refer them Federal. They have a reputation of being merciless with suspected criminals. In contrast, the Addis-Ababa city police, who most of the time patrol the less important city streets, markets and neighborhoods are more tolerant and less respected police officers. For all emergencies dial 911. In Addis, major streets are generally safe at night. In a total difference of other African cities, in Addis-Ababa, police officers never approach foreigners to ask them to present a passport, ID or 8220legal8221 papers. Once you show your passport at the airport, you are free to move around pretty much anywhere. The only time you need your passport or ID is for hotel registration (booking) and other similar and few instances. (It is important to have your ID with you at all times, however.) Many visitors appreciate that they don8217t have to be questioned who they are or where they are from by a police officer who wants to extract bribe money from them, every time they turn around. This could be one of Addis-Ababa8217s appeals. Cope Watch what you drink or you can fall sick. It is important to remember to only drink bottled water. There are many brands to choose from always check the plastic seal on all bottles before paying any vendor. Most travelers should be warned against eating vegetables such as those in salads that may have been washed in water. Try limiting fruits and vegetables to those you 8220peel8221 yourself such as oranges, mangos, etc. Be prepared for culture shock. If you take photos of the people, ask first and offer to show them their picture if you have a digital camera with a display screen. Children enjoy seeing their pictures a lot of the time Your emotions are real. Many first time visitors may feel overwhelmed if they have not experienced this type of culture difference before. Be polite but not intrusive. It is OK to ask questions of the locals, but you should be prepared to be hassled a lot of the time, especially if you are white. Additionally, for foreign travelers who are black, especially American, although possibly able to 8220blend in8221, precautions are the order of the day (depending where you are, in Addis on Bole road they are used to seeing foreigners compared to the country side). If you prepare your mindset before arrival, you will be better able to cope. Embassies Canada Old Airport Area, Nefas Silk Lafto Sub City, Kebeli 04, House No. 122, 251 11 3713022, (canadainternational. gc. ca/ethiopia-ethiopie/splash. aspx) Greece Off Debre Zeit Road, (P. O.Box 1168, Addis Ababa), 251 11 465 4911, fax: 251 11 466 5588, Ireland Kazanches, Guinea Conakry Street, 251 11 518 0500, (dfa. ie/home/index. aspxid8564) Italy Villa Italia, Kebena, 251 11 123 5717, (ambaddisabeba. esteri. it/AmbasciataAddisAbeba) Sweden Ras Tessema Sefer, Higher 3, K-53, House No. 891, 251 11 518 0000, (swedenabroad/Start38962.aspx) Serbia W15 K26, House No.923, (P. O.Box 1341, Addis Ababa), 251 11 5517804, fax: 251 11 5514192, Telephone The country code for calling Ethiopia is 251. The Ethiopian dialing plan changed on 17 Sep 2005, such that the two-digit city code changed to three digits (or, from outside the country, one to two digits) and six-digit telephone numbers changed to seven digits. The city code for Addis Ababa, as of Sep 2005, is 011 (or 11 from outside Ethiopia). Mobile Ethiopia uses GSM network and operated by Ethiopian Telecommunications Corporation. Currently there are decent coverage around big cities such as Addis Ababa, Dire Dawa, Bahir Dar, Debre Markos, Dese, Gonder, Harar, Mekele, and Nekemete. It is expanding into most small cities. Roaming charges are very steep. For a short visit, your best option for mobile access is to rent a SIM card with a phone. Only a few stores rent SIM cards: You can rent SIM card and phone inside Addis Ababa Sheraton hotel but is it very expensive. Another option is to rent a SIM card and mobile phone from local stores (for example Red Zebraes, ). A third option is to buy a sim card that will cost you about 60 birr (August 2011). Ask a cell phone retailer (there are many of them, especially in the piazza). If the retailer does not sell them, he or she will point you in the right direction. Be prepared: you will need a passport sized picture and a photocopy of your passport that the seller will keep. The quickest way to get an own SIM card is probably in Hilton Hotel. If you have all needed documents (photocopy of your passport and two passport sized pictures), it will take you less than 5 minutes to get your SIM card. Internet In Addis Ababa, especially in Bole Subcity, you can find quite a number of internet cafes. Some cafes still use Dial-Up connections, but broadband becomes more popular. Most of the high-end hotels have internet connections (either Ethernet or WiFi), which are reasonably fast and often free for hotel guests. A general problem about Internet in Ethiopia is the unstable international high-speed connection. If it is not working, even broadband cafes only deliver Dial-Up speeds and less. The local definition of highspeed broadband is 128kbits. Another general problem is the shortage of electricity, forcing daytime blackouts of whole areas 1-2 days a week, so it is good to plan ahead where you are going for internet access. During the winter months of 2009 (Jun-Aug), electricity had gone off on one side of the city for one day, and another side for the next. Skype and similar services are forbidden by the government. According to local press, Ethiopia today has the fourth worst internet in the world. Arkies Business Center, Piazza, next to 8216Taitu Hotels8217 Broadband Internet in DH Geda Tower, next to Friendship City Center / Bole Road. 128kbps, many seats, but mostly completely occupied. The good thing is, that is is easy to find. Nina Internetcafe, across from Baro Hotels, inside Wutema Hotels TG Business Center. Bole, from Airport (Big Roundabout) to the right, junction with Cameroon Road (locally known as 8220Bole-Tele8221) has broadband but only 3 seats. Most of the time it is not crowded, so a good connection can be expected Wireless Internet 3G Internet services (known as WCDMA or UMTS) are available in many parts of Addis Ababa. A special SIM card and capable phone is needed. Price is 0.04 ETB Cents per 100 KB. Also CDMA is available, that needs special devices (prices around 0,10 ETB per Minute, around 128kbits). EVDO requires a USB device and is faster than CDMA but requires monthly payment of 500 ETB/month for 2 GB data plan. CDMA and EVDO are also available in all regional and most zonal capitals in Ethiopia. Table of Contents Understand By plane Airport Transfer By train By car By bus By boat Public transportation Metro Taxis Buses See Casbah Sleep Embassies Get out Algiers () is the capital of Algeria. Algiers is the capital and largest city of Algeria, and the second largest city in the Maghreb (after Casablanca), with a population of 3,354,000 within the city metropolitan area. Algiers is situated on the west side of a bay of the Mediterranean Sea. The modern part of the city is built on the level ground by the seashore the old part, the ancient city of the deys, climbs the steep hill behind the modern town and is crowned by the casbah or citadel, 400 ft (122 m) above the sea. By plane Houari Boumediene Airport (, ) is located 20 km (12 mi) southeast of Algiers: the airport is named after former Algerian president Houari Boumediene. The airport is the home base of the flag-carrier Air Algerie. Air Algerie serves the most important Algerian cities (such as Oran, Annabaq, Tammanrasset, Skikda, Tlemcen, Constantine) several times daily. There also many connections to African capitals such as Bamako, Cairo, Abidjan, Dakar, Tunis, and Ouagadougo. Air Algerie operates from Hall 1 as Hall 2 is reserved for the international airlines. International Airlines Aigle Azur (Basel/Mulhouse, Lille, Lyon, Nice (seasonal), Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, Toulouse) Air Berlin (Cologne-Bonn) Air France (Marseilles, Paris-Charles de Gaulle) Air Mditerrane (Montepellier) Alitalia (Milan-Malpensa, Rome-Fiumicino) British Airways (London-Heathrow) EgyptAir (Cairo) Iberia (Madrid) Jetairfly (Brussels, Seasonal) Libyan Airlines (Tripoli) Lufthansa (Frankfurt) Middle East Airlines (Beirut) Qatar Airways (Doha) Royal Air Maroc (Casablanca, Oudja) Saudi Arabian Airlines (Jeddah) Spanair (Alicante. Barcelona, Valencia) Syrian Arab Airlines (Aleppo, Damascus) TAP Portugal (Lisbon) Tunisair (Tunis) Turkish Airlines (Istanbul-Atatrk) Airport Transfer Taxi (Outside of Hall 2) Bus By train Algiers Central Train Station is located near the city centre. The station offers regular services to major Algerian cities such as Oran, Annaba, and Constantine. SNTF (the national Algerian Train company) has made big improvements during the last years: new air-conditioned trains have been purchased and new routes launched. By car Being the capital of the country most, if not all major roadways in Algeria begin and end in Algiers. So getting into Algiers is quite easy. However, the infrastructure of Algerian roadways is not highly regarded so arriving by road might not be the most desirable option. There are a number of road projects around the country that are aimed at improving the infrastructure, most notably the East-West highway running from Annaba in the east to Oran in the west, of course coming through Algiers. By bus La Gare Routiere, Algiers8217s central bus terminus, located in the commune of Hussein Dey (about 7-10 min drive from downtown), offers a plethora of bus services to most major Algerian cities and towns. It is a very cheap and efficient way to get to/from a pair of Algerian cities. Most of the coaches used are modern and air-conditioned so the rides are, more often than not, comfortable. However, there are a few old coaches still in service, so try to avoid those, for the ride won8217t be as pleasant. For long distances as Algiers-Tammanrasset or Algiers-Annaba travelling by plane is recommend due the long duration. By boat They are regular ferry services to Algiers from Marseille, Nice, Palermo, Alicante . Public transportation Algiers Public Transportation is lacking but the city is going to make improvements with the opening of the long-delayed first Metro line: there are buses opereating within the city center and to the suburbs. Metro When the metro line L1 opens, it will have 9 km and 10 stations and will serve the most important places of Algiers. . Stations. bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Tafourah 8211 Grande Poste bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Khelifa Boukhalfa bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 1er Mai bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Assat Idir bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Hamma bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Jardin d8217essais bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Les Fusills bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Cit Amirouche bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Cit Mer et Soleil bgcolorred bgcolor8221ffffff8221 Ha El Badr Taxis Taxis are a fast and cheap way to get around in Algiers they can be found at taxi stands but negotiate the price before riding: a tip is not expected but can be given if the sevice was really good. Buses Buses are operating within the city center and to the suburbs: tickets are purchased on the bus for 20 dinar. A man with a bundle of tickets come to you. See Monument of Martyrs (in city center) La Grande Poste Aquafortland is an area attraction as well as Monument des Martyrs. Casbah The Casbah is the ancient city, dating to the 17th century. Ketchaoua Mosque El Djedid Mosque El Kebir Mosque Sleep Sofitel Algiers Hamma Garden. Mercure Alger Aeroport Sheraton Club des Pins Resort and Towers. Beachfront resort. Ibis Alger Aroport. Spa Dahli Hotel Hilton. Scenic hotel among pine trees overlooking the bay. Offers lunch at The Pool House, traditional tagine at Casbah and a drink at the late-night Kantara Bar. Embassies Argentina 5 Chemin Mohamed Drareni Hydra, 213 21 54-8665/ 69-1269, Belgium 22, Chemin Youcef Tayebi 16030 El Biar, 213 21-922446, Canada 18 Mustapha Khalef St Ben Aknoun BP 103, 213 21 91 49 51, China 34 Boulevard Des Martyrs BP 103, 213 21-692724, Czech Republic 3, Chemin du Ziryab, Telemly Ben Aknoun BP 103, 213 21-230056, Denmark 12 Ave Emile Marquis Lot. Djenane El-Malik BP 103, 213 21 548 228, Finland 10 Rue des Cedrest El Mouradia BP 103, 213 21-692 925, France 25 chemin Gaddouche Hydra 1600 BP 103, 213 21 69 24 88, Germany 165, Chemin Sfindja (ex Laperlier) Algiers BP 103, 213 21 74 19 41, Greece 60, Blv Colonel Bougara 16030 El Biar, Alger Algiers BP 103, 213 21-92 12 28, fax: 213 21-92 34 90, (mfa. gr/algiers) Hungary 18, Avenue des Freres Oughlis BP 68 El-Mouradia BP 103, 213 21-923288, Italy 18, Rue Mohammed Ouidir Amellal 16030 El Biar BP 103, 213 21 9259 86, Malaysia Lottisement Zergoug Villa No. 9, Hydra BP 103, 213 21 60 68 12, Serbia 7, Rue des Freres Benhafid, 16035 Hydra, 213 21 69 12 18, fax: 213 21 69 34 72, (ambserbie-alger/) United Kingdom 3 Chemin Capitaine Hocine Slimane, 213 770 085 000, United States 3 05 Chemin Cheikh Bachir Ibrahimi El-Biar 16030, 213 770-08-2000, (algiers. usembassy. gov/) Table of Contents Understand Climate By plane By bus Get around See Religious structures Museums Landmarks Parks an d preserves Traditional crafts Do Festivals Buy Handicrafts Books Eat Budget Mid range Drink Budget Mid-range Splurge Contact Internet Cope Embassies and Consulates Get out Thimphu () is the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan, and with a population of around 80,000 is the nation8217s largest city. Although the Thimphu Valley has supported small settlements for many centuries and a dzong has existed there since 1216, the city didn8217t really develop until the king declared Thimphu the new capital in 1961. Vehicles first appeared on the streets a year later, and slowly the city began to adapt to its role as the nation8217s capital. Currently the town is undergoing massive development. New tree-lined streets are being laid and the clock tower area in the center of the city has been transformed into a park-cum-open air theater where live cultural performances take place. In 2008, the national stadium was completed together with a new river-side park. The area around the dzong and government buildings is a particularly green and an attractive district. Norzin Lam is the city8217s main thoroughfare and is lined with hotels, shopping complexes and hotels. Climate The winter season in Thimphu is very cold but dry, while the summers are wet and humid. The best times to visit are from mid September to the end of October and from March to May. By plane Nearly all visitors arrive via plane from Paro, the country8217s sole airport, a 45 minute to 1 hour drive from the capital. By bus All inter-district buses arrive and depart from the city8217s bus station, located across the river from the city center. It is a six to seven hour drive (mostly through Chukha district) from the border town of Phuentsholing. Travelers should be aware that road-widening work will take place on the highway between Phuentsholing and Thimphu until 2011. During this time, there may be significant hold ups and other inconveniences. Work on the Paro to Thimphu section was complete in 2008. Various private operators like Dhug, Meto and Pernya run Toyota Coaster services from Phuentsholing to Thimphu. These buses can seat 22 and are very comfortable. Advance reservation can be made at Phuentsholing Bus Station. Contact Mr. Phueba (Dhug Transport on 00975-17755175) for reservations (he speaks a little English/Hindi). Once in Thimphu one can find various buses plying to other parts of the country. Get around The city center is small enough to negotiate on foot. Taxi: There is a set rate for taxis plying city routes. Maximum is around 60nu. There are taxi ranks on Norzin Lam (across from the cinema hall) and at the inter-district bus station. Taxis also cruise and can be hailed at any point. Bus. The city operates an efficient, albeit infrequent, public bus service connecting the downtown with outer suburbs. The station for local buses is located just east of the stadium on Chang Lam. See Although lacking the charm and culture associated with ancient capitals, Thimphu is well endowed with attractions. Religious structures Monasteries are referred to by their Dzongkha title of lhakhang or gompa. Changangkha Lhakhang. Constructed in the 15th century, this is one of the oldest temples in the Thimphu Valley, and is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the Buddhist emanation of compassion. The temple affords wonderful views over the entire valley. The National Memorial Chorten, located off Jangchhub Lam. A good place to visit in the evening when the locals are doing their evening prayers. The stupa was built in 1974 in memory of the third king. Zangthoperi Lhakhang, lower Thimphu (follow the path down from below the GPO). The present structure was built in 1960s and although lacking the charm of many of the older temples, Zangdopelri still possesses some impressive murals and art treasures and is worthy of a visit. The site of the temple was a former battle ground, and the temple was constructed there in order to pacify energies. Statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, sitting on top of Kuensel Phodrang hill is a 51.5mt bronze statue of the founder of Buddhism. The site also offers unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley 8211 especially stunning at sunset. Museums The National Folk Heritage Museum, located behind the National Library. A traditional house that showcases rural life. Exhibits and cultural shows are held in the museum compound. Open: Mon-Fri 10:30AM to 4:30PM, Sa 10:30Am to 1PM and Su 11:30AM to 3:30PM. Entrance: 150nu. The Textile Museum, Norzin Lam, has a display of exquisite Bhutanese textiles from the 1600s to the present day. Landmarks Trashi Chhoe Dzong. The present dzong was built in the 18th century by Shabdrung Rinpoche to house government officials. Later it was enlarged to accommodate both the monastic and civil bodies. Three times suffering severe damage from fire and once from an earthquake in 1897, much of the historic building dates from the rebuilding in 1902. To accommodate the national government and the central monastic body, the dzong was totally refurbished and enlarged in 1962, a year after Thimphu was designated the nation8217s capital. Simtokha Dzong. Built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Simtokha was the first dzong to be built in a unified Bhutan. Currently, it houses the country8217s main Dzongkha language learning institute. Simtokha is about 5km south of Thimphu. Parks and preserves Takin Preserve, Motithang. The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories. Botanical Gardens, Serbithang. Located on lush hillside about 10km from the city, the gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanists will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest. Coronation Park. Located on the banks of the river (near the city stadium), this 5.6 acres of parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or to sit and watch the river flow by. Traditional crafts Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts, near National Library. Zorig Chusum was established in 1971 to preserve the thirteen traditional arts of Bhutan, and visitors are able to observe students honing their skills. There is also a small gift shop selling work created at the school. The thirteen arts are paintings, carpentry, wood carving, sculpture, casting, metal work, bamboo carving, gold amp silver work, weaving, embroidery, masonry, leather work and paper making. Do The National Institute of Traditional Medicine, Serzhong Lam. Tel:975 2 324-647 8211 an excellent place to have any chronic ailments diagnosed and treated using herbal compounds. Ensure to keep the prescription. If the medicine is effective, you might want to order more in the future. Open 9AM-3PM Mon to Sat and 9AM-1PM on Sat. The National Library, Pedzoe Lam. Tel:975 2 322-885 8211 houses a rare collection of Buddhist texts on the second floor, and there is a small selection of English books on Buddhism (mostly donated from Taiwan) and on Bhutan on the first floor. Open 9:30AM 8211 1PM amp 2PM 8211 5PM Mon to Fri. Jigme Dorji Wangchuk Public Library, Top end Norzin Lam (left side). This small library has a good selection of English books, but appreciates donations of popular titles, especially those on Buddhism and Bhutan. Festivals Thimphu Drupchen (religious ceremony) 1-5 Oct 2011 Thimphu Tshechu (religious festival) 6-8 Oct 2011 Mountain Echoes literary festival (20-23 May 2011) Buy Bhutan8217s small population means demand for new and innovative goods is small. Basically, Thimphu has three kinds of stores: clothing, handicraft and hardware. Between these, there is a small assortment of stationery-cum-bookstores and supermarkets. Almost all stores stock the same goods, so if you cannot find the required items in the first couple of stores it is generally useless to persist. However, what the city lacks in variety, it adequately substitutes with friendliness. As the store keeper informs you that the goods you want are not available and cannot be ordered, you will inevitably be facing a warm and friendly smile. Haggling at tourist-oriented shops is expected, but the margin for discount is small (unless you make a bulk purchase). However, store owners are extremely honest and there is little possibility to be cheated or offered an inflated price. Be aware that most handicrafts sold in Thimphu are made in Nepal or other Himalayan areas. Exceptions are cloth items, some thankas and goods made of lemon grass oil. These are generally made in Bhutan. Yarkay Central. This shopping center located across from Hotel Norling on Norzin Lam has four good quality craft stores: Kelzang Handicrafts (Tel: 322-469) is the most commercial and sells a range of goods, including t-shirts Druk Handicraft (Tel: 322-258) and Kurtue Handicrafts (Tel: 325-883) specialize in woven goods and Karchung (Tel: mobile 17607724) sells a small, but good quality range of art work and wood carvings. Blue Poppy Bhutanese (PO Box 1296. Tel:975 2 326-752) is a handicraft store specializing in woven fabrics and paintings located in the Kawajangsa area of the city, near the indigenous medicine hospital. There are also other handicraft stores in that area 8211 so if you are looking for souvenirs, it is a good place to visit. The weekend market in Chubachhu (across the river from the main town) has over 100 stalls selling hand woven cloth and other handicrafts. Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre, Changzamtog. A weaving center employing around 20 professional weavers. Showroom on top floor. Handicrafts Emporium, top end of Norzin Lam (right side). A government run craft shop with a wide range of goods. Set prices. Specialized selection of books on Buddhism and local subjects on second floor. Lungta, opposite the post office. One of the largest handicraft stores in the down town area. Good selection of hand made goods from all over the Himalayan region. Traditional Carpets. Yangkhil Home Decor, KMT Building, Norzin Lam (diagonally across from Taj Hotel). Tel:975 2 336-247. Probably the best selection of hand woven carpets in town. Taranyana Foundation. Top end of Norzin Lam (next to the town library). Tarayana trains and supports the vulnerable and disadvantaged to make traditional handicrafts. This shop is their Thimphu sales out-let. Like a lot of charity stores, the displays are drab and and unappealing and the selection of goods is limited. However, the quality of the handicrafts is excellent and they offer a more rustic and genuine feel that those on sale at the commercial handicraft stores. Tara Handicrafts. Located downtown, Tara offers a wide range of Bhutanese handicraft. DHL home delivery service offered. Books Junction, just below the Norzin Lam Traffic Circle. One of the few bookstores in Thimphu that has a real bookstore atmosphere. Junction has an excellent selection of quality novels and books on Buddhism. Kuenjung Enterprises, Khamsa Complex (just below the Traffic Circle). The largest book store in town, offering a good selection of books on Buddhism and Bhutan. Book World is located behind Druk Punjab National Bank. A good selection of English books, especially on Bhutan and Buddhism. Tel:975 2 328-539. E-mail:bookworlddruknet. bt DSB Books Enterprises in Jojo Building near Druk Hotel has a wide selection of books in English 8211 novels and children8217s books are a specialty. PO Box 435, Thimphu. Tel:975 2 326-275, 326-276. E-mail:dsbdruknet. bt Pekhang Books, next to cinema hall. A small bookstore with a wide selection of magazines. Eat It is important to note that most restaurants (including those in hotels) in Thimphu stop serving food between 9PM and 9:30PM. Budget Hotel Ghasel, Norzin Lam (opposite the clock tower). Tel:975 2 323-341. Mobile: 17117100. For those pining that backstreet Indian vibe, this vegetarian restaurant is the place to come. Under the sound of Hindi songs blasting from a TV, Ghasel produces delicious dosa and thali and a range of other Indian and Bhutanese specialties. Clean, fast service and cheap. MK Restaurant, Centrepoint Shopping Centre (next to the main cinema hall). Popular with Japanese and serves Japanese, Bhutanese, and Indian dishes. After you order your food you8217ll have quite a long wait, but, for the price, this is the best restaurant in town. Go for the Japanese food, but everything is tasty. Hotel Tandin, Norzin Lam, just past the first traffic circle(restaurant on the first floor). Delicious Indian and Bhutanese dishes at very reasonable prices. Cypress Restaurant, Norzin Lam (second floor 8211 opposite Taj Hotel). A simple restaurant serving Bhutanese and Indian dishes 8211 huge helpings at reasonable prices. Shelse Restaurant, Norzin Lam (diagonally opp the the Handicraft Emporium). Tel:975 77207771 A amall place serving authentic Bhutanese cuisine. Try their homemade brew 8220Chankey8221 8211 a naturally fermented malt drink made from buckwheat and rice. Norzinn Fine Dining On the main traffic circle (on your right past the traffic circle, on the first floor) 335656, Mid range Western Druk Pizza, behind Bhutan Observer Building (also known as KMT Building) at the top end of Norzin Lam. Tel:975 2 334-543 or 17636589. Good quality pizzas on Italian style base with Bhutanese toppings plus a small selection of milk shakes and hot beverages. Free coke and a free pizza after your 10th is a bonus. Closed on Mondays. Jichu Drakey Bakery, Doebum Lam (a two minute walk from the swimming pool in the direction of the Memorial Chorten). An excellent selection of cakes and pastries. Take-out only. Swiss Bakery, Chorten Lam (above the main traffic roundabout). Sells tasty sandwiches, pies, omlets, jelly doughnuts, and excellent potato chips, among other baked goods and lunch treats. If you want a swiss cake roll, the ones here are the best in town. The Seasons Restaurant Pizzeria, Namsay Shopping Complex, Phenday Lam. Tel: 975 2 327-413. One of the few places in town that serves authentic pizza and Italian salads. Pizzeria also offers a good selection of filter coffees and has an outdoor patio. Closed Tuesdays. Tsok Dak Bakery, GF. Peling Building (directly behind Hotel Pedling). Tel:975 2 337-961. A bakery serving a range of cakes and breads. Filter coffee available. Seating includes small terrace. Big Bakery a little bakery in Kawajangsa in front of the Ministry of Health. This is technically a Japanese bakery run by physically or intellectually challenged Bhutanese. Prices are high (Nu.45 for a sandwich, Nu.100 for a loaf of bread) but the quality is the best in town as of March 821710. Cafe Klein, directly behind Druk Punjab National Bank (PNB). A small, but charasmatic restaurant serving pizza, bagels and other dough based goodies. Chinese Chopstick, 2nd floor, Centre Mall, Norzin Lam. Tel:975 2 333-601. A small restaurant specializing in Chinese dishes. Thai Baan Thai Restaurant, Top floor, Karma Place (complex with Bowling Alley) Tel:975 17112456. Authentic Thai food in the heart of Thimphu. Fast and pleasant service, the cook is from Chiang Mai. Closed Tuesdays. Delicia, Just up the hill from JAICA (half-way between the memorial chorten and Shopper8217s Store). Little cafe with a beach theme that serves pastries, a few thai dishes, soft serve ice cream, and the best french fries in Thimphu. Open until 7pm, closed Wednesdays. Bhutanese/Indian Jikss Trokhang, 5F. المرسوم العالي Plaza, Norzin Lam. Tel:975 2 333-099. A cool place to chill out. Main dining hall offers a relaxing and cozy environment, while the bar-cum-cafe (across the hall) offers live music (mostly Bhutanese and Indian rock). Serves Indian and Bhutanese dishes. Yee-Gha Restaurant and bar Phendy lam, pedling complex (club Remix building, first floor) 17416166, Traditional Bhutanese Bhutan Kitchen, Located above the Benez restaurant. A restaurant that tries to give you a real authentic and traditional Bhutanese food experience, with traditional music and uncompromisingly Bhutanese food. A little expensive but worth it. Rabten Restaurant, Above the Chubachu roundabout towards Motithang, Tel: 975 2 323-587. The best traditional Bhutanese food you can buy in Thimphu. Cooks only on advance reservation, ideally at least 1 day in advance. Not expensive and utterly worth it. Indian Cargyal Restaurant, Changlam Square. Tel975 17742488. Excellent food and fast service. Also, pleasant atmosphere, with the 1st floor arrangement of low seating and cushions giving the place a touch of the maharajah era. Drink Bhutan is not a place for coffee lovers as most cafes only sell the instant variety. Below is a list of places that sell the real stuff. However, only Ambient and Karma8217s have professional coffee machines. The others either sell only filter coffee or use an automatic coffee machine. Ambient Cafe, 1F R. Penjor Lodge, Norzin Lam (between the Traffic Circle and Clock Tower 8211 opp PNB Bank). Tel:975 2 325-578 An elegant and relaxing cafe offering a wide range of freshly brewed coffees, large selection of teas, fresh juice and innovative snacks and meals (try the delicious hummus plate). Ambient also provides an excellent selection of music and offers panoramic views over the city streets and mountains beyond. Free wi-fi. Karma8217s Coffee, 1F, Tashi Rabten Building (above Zangthopelri Complex), Phendey Lam. Tel:234 and 17181920. A chic cafe with music videos on flat screen TV and wi-fi. Karma8217s is one of the most professional coffee shops in Thimphu, offering a wide range of blends. Snacks and light meals available. The Art Cafe, a block over from the main traffic circle, just below the Swiss Bakery. Tel:975 2 327-933. A bright, airy and elegant cafe with courtyard. Serves simple and wholesome meals, though the delicious cakes, pies, and excellent filter coffee are the main draw. Closed Mondays. Khamsa Coffee, top floor, Cham Lam Plaza, Lower Thimphu. A smart cafe offering views over the surrounding mountains. Serves a variety of filter based coffees. Budget Hotel Ghasel, Norzin Lam (Opposite Clock Tower). Tel:975 2 323-341. Centrally located. Clean and pleasant rooms with attached bathroom and hot water facility, cable TV. Restaurant, bar and fast food facilities. R. Penjor Lodge, Norzin Lam (between Traffic Circle and Clock Tower 8211 opp PNB Bank). Tel:975 2 325-578. Centrally located. Clean and pleasant rooms with attached bathroom, cable TV and wifi. Restaurant and coffee shop facilities. Hotel Norling, PO Box 327 Norzin Lam. Tel:975 2 322-997, 323997. E-mail:norlinghoteldruknet. bt A clean and pleasant facility located on the city8217s main street (Norzin Lam). All rooms with attached bathroom and TV. Very friendly and helpful service. Single 8211 490 Nu Twin 8211 650Nu. City Hotel, building 14, (Opp Clock tower), Norzin Lam. Simple rooms, r easonable rates. Single Nu.300-450 and Double nu.500-700plimentary bed tea. Indian, Nepali, Bhutanese dishes. Tel:975 77251429, 17795388 or 02 335-894. Mid-range Wangchuk Hotel, PO Box 507 Changlam 17, Thimphu. Tel:975 2 323-532, 325484. E-mail: htlwchukdruknet. bt A pleasant hotel located near the city center and over looking the river and hills beyond. Sauna, massage and steam bath facilities. Standard single 8211 1,150Nu, standard double 8211 1,450Nu. Hotel Jumolhari, PO Box 308, Thimphu. Tel: 975 2 322-747, 325506. E-mail:hoteljumolhari. A modern facility in the city center. Massage and recreational facilities. Standard single 8211 2,000Nu, standard double 8211 2,500Nu. Hotel Druk, Tel:975 2 322-966, 322977. E-mail:drukhoteldruknet. bt A large city center hotel located adjacent to the Clock Tower. Health club with massage, sauna, steam facilities. Standard single 8211 2,000Nu, standard double 8211 2,500Nu. Hotel Motithang. Tel:975 2 322-435. A pleasant hotel located on the mountain side above Thimphu. Wonderful views over the valley. A great place for people looking for peace and quiet or some inspiration. Splurge Taj Tashi, PO BOX 524, Samten Lam. Tel:975 2 236-699. Opened in 2008, a large and centrally located hotel offering full amenities. Nightly rates start from US275 (off season), US350 (peak season). Amankora Thimphu, Near Kuenga Chhoeling Palace, Upper Motithang. Tel:975 2 331-333. Part of the Aman super luxury hotel chain. A sixteen room lodge offering five star plus facilities. US1,000 Contact The area code for Thimphu is 02. When calling from overseas. dial: 975 2 XXXXXX Internet Internet cafes in Thimphu are linked to broadband. Connections are swift, though at around 60nu per hour quite expensive. Buddha Internet, Norzin Lam (diagonally across from Chopstick Restaurant). Has a large range of computers 8211 excellent service 8211 very fast connections. Hotel Norling, opposite the hotel reception room on the second floor 8211 efficient and fast. JP Internet Cafe, Jojos Building 8211 very professional. Go Go Internet Cafe, Lhaki Building (located in the building that houses the Bhutan Times offices), Hong Kong Market 8211 remains open until around 11PM (the latest in town). Cope Getting things done in Thimphu is relatively straight forward. All offices are computerized and the staff are well trained and helpful. However, it is often said that Bhutan has one of the world8217s highest rates of meetings and workshops per working hours. This cannot be substantiated, but certainly meetings are very much part of the civil service culture here. In fact, it is often said that the last place you should begin a search for a civil servant is at his or her desk As a result, you should be prepared to make several visits to an office in order to get a task complete as there is a very high possibility that the person dealing with your case will be out. Visa extensions and route permits are available from the Immigration Office at the top end of Norzin Lam (just past the Textile Museum). Route permits should be applied for at least one full working day before the intended date of travel. A photocopy of passport (pages containing personal information and Bhutanese visa) is required. Post Office. The central PO is located in the lower part of town on Chang Lam. It is a large and well organized facility that includes a philatelic department. Mailing letters/packages in Bhutan is usually very safe though, like elsewhere, anything of value should be registered. البنوك. The three main banks in Thimphu are 8216Bank of Bhutan8217, 8216Bhutan National Bank8217 and 8216Punjab National Bank8217. The former is on Norzin Lam (mid way between the traffic circle and Taj Tashi Hotel), while the National Bank is located directly below the Bank of Bhutan, in the same building as the post office. The Punjab National Bank is on Norzin Lam, near the Clock Tower. All three banks provide money change service. ماكينة الصراف الآلي. Bhutan does not operate an international ATM service, though certain shops specializing in tourist goods accept payment by credit card. Western Union, Thimphu Post Office. This facility can receive transfer of funds from overseas, but cannot make payments from customers8217 personal accounts. Embassies and Consulates Bangladesh. Tel:975 2 222-362 India, India House, Jungshina. Tel:975 2 322-280 Thailand. Tel:975 2 323-978 Get out Buses depart the inter-district bus station (across the river) throughout the day, though most, especially those heading to the east and Jakar/Bumthang leave between 6:30 to 7:30AM. As the inter-district buses are often full, it is advisable to purchase a ticket a few days in advance. Most districts are served by small Japanese Coaster Buses, which are comfortable and sturdy. Shared taxis are a quick and comfortable means to travel to nearby places, such as Paro (150nu) and Punakha (200nu). Shared taxis depart from the inter-district bus station, and drivers approach potential customers. They depart once full. Monastic complexes are referred to by their their Bhutanese title of 8216gompa8217 not 8216monastery8217. Tango Gompa. About a hour drive from Thimphu down town followed by a one hour hike, this is one of Bhutan8217s historical monasteries in the Kagyu tradition. It was founded by the grandson of the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kinley, and houses some of his relics. The monastery offers spectaular viwes over the Thimphu Valley. Cheri Gompa. As is the first Drukpa Kagyu Monastery established in Bhutan and located at the site where Shabdrong Rinpoche gained enlightenment, Cheri is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. The structure itself is cut into the steep mountainside and has a very atmospheric stone stairway connecting its various levels. Located about an hour8217s drive North of Thimphu, the trek begins from a prayer flag covered bridge and takes about one hour. Tango and Cheri are about a one hour hike apart, and so are usually visited on the same trip. Phajoding Gompa. Founded in the 13th century by Togen Pajo, a yogi from Tibet, this monastic complex is a three hour hike from Thimphu (start from Motithang or BBS Tower). At a height of 3,640m, it commands excellent views over Thimphu. There is space for camping. Otherwise, the small Thujidrag Gompa (a forty minute walk from Phajoding) offers simple accommodation (often full at weekends) and cooking facilities 8211 offer donation directly to monk in charge. Even if you do not plan to stay at Thujidrag, this cliff hanging monastery is still definitely worth a visit. Locally, it is famous for its sacred spring water. There are several sacred lakes in the area, though these are a full day8217s circular hike from Thujidrag. Paro 8211 The location of the international airport and center of a sacred valley. Paro is a 45 minute to one hour drive from the capital 8211 an easy day trip. Punakha 8211 The former capital 8211 a 90 minute journey. Jakar 8211 A town at the heart of a sacred and beautiful valley. The journey from Thimphu takes between 9 to 11 hours. A minimum of three days are needed to do justice to a visit. Table of Contents Understand By train By bus amp furgon By plane By boat By bus By foot By taxi By car By bicycle See Do Festivals Buy Eat Budget Mid-range Splurge Drink Budget Mid-range Splurge Contact Internet Cafes Hospitals Embassies Get out Tirana is the capital of Albania. Sulejman Pasha Bargjini, a native feudal lord from Mullet, established the city in 1614. His first constructions were a mosque, a bakery and a hamam (Turkish bath). On February 8, 1920 Tirana was made the temporary capital by the Congress of Lushnje, and it was proclaimed the permanent capital on December 31, 1925. Tourists usually find Tirana a beautiful and charming city, with a lively night life. Tirana suffers from pollution problems, mainly due to the rapid increase in cars in the city but also due to continuous construction. Tirana used to be subject to power outages almost daily and this made Tirana a noisy city as the lack of power and lack of traffic lights had cars navigating by honking their horns. Today the situation has dramatically improved regarding power outages. In addition, the central square (Skenderbeg Square) is currently closed off to both cars and pedestrians as it is undergoing a major pedestrianisation. When finished, this will make the centre of town even more tourist friendly. Tirana is undergoing a major renovation from its communist days. Many of the ugly dull buildings have been repainted, but a lot of work is left to be done. The average citizen speaks little English and Italian. The main business and entertainment area (not by coincidence) has become 8220The Block8221 which is the area where in the past, the communist leaders used to live under strict protection. Locals prefer to hang out at the many cafes and main parks. A popular retreat is by cable car to Mount Dajti where one can get a panoramic view of the city from above. A new tourist information office has recently opened on Rruga Del Gjo Luli, just north of Skenderbeg Square (behind the National History Museum). The English-speaking staff are very helpful and can provide maps and directions to hostels/hotels etc. Also free copies of 8220Tirana in your pocket8221 guide, which includes vital information about bus and furgon schedules. By train Tirana has no international train connections. You can only reach Tirana by train operated by HSH sh. a. (map here warning:PDF ) from the following cities: Durrs (100 lek, one hour, 8 daily), Shkodra (160 lek, 3.5 hours, twice daily), Elbasan (200 lek, 4 hours, 3 daily), Vlor (210 lek, 5.5 hours, twice daily) and Pogradec (350 lek, 4 hours, twice daily). Even though train services are very poor, when compared to West Balkan standards, they may be more frequent, cheaper, and more scenic than taking the bus. By bus amp furgon Tirana does not have a central bus station, so you may be dropped at various locations in the city. Buses can be used to reach Tirana from other cities in Albania and internationally. There is daily bus service from Turkey, Skopje, Republic of Macedonia, Serbia, and Athens, Greece and multiple services per day to Pristina, Kosovo and other cities in Albania. Schedules change frequently so check the latest info in your place of departure. From Montenegro, take a bus or taxi to Ulcinj, then take a bus or taxi to Shkodra in Albania, crossing the border at Muriqan. Buses leave Shkodra frequently for Tirana. Buses to and from Kosovo depart from downtown (behind museum where one also can find buses to Rinas airport) Buses and furgons(minibuses) are generally the best method for traveling within Albania, but they are not in the best of shape. There are few bus companies many are operated by individual drivers. Bus lines have schedules, but are often delayed until the coaches are full or a the whim of the driver. Some international bus stations are far from the centre so it may be worth taking a taxi to the bus stop to save time and energy and avoid getting lost. Tirana is served by Mother Teresa Airport (TIA) 17 km from the centre of town. The following airlines offer service to/from Tirana: Adria Airways (Ljubljana), Aegean Airlines (Athens), Albanian Airlines (Amsterdam, Athens, Bologna, Frankfurt, Istanbul-Atatrk, London-Stansted, Milan-Malpensa, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Prishtina, Rome, Turin, Verona, Zrich), Air One (Milan-Malpensa, Rome-Fiumicino), Austrian Tyrolean Airways (Vienna), Belle Air (Ancona, Athens, Bari, Bologna, Cuneo, Florence, Forli, Genoa, Heraklion, Milan-Malpensa, Milan-Orio al Serio, Parma, Perugia, Pisa, Pristina, Rhodes, Rimini, Rome-Fiumicino, Trieste, Venice-Treviso, Verona, Zurich), British Airways (London-Gatwick), Lufthansa (Munich), Malv Hungarian Airlines (Budapest), Olympic Air (Athens), Sky Express (Heraklion), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul-Atatrk) Rinas Express operates an hourly bus between 6:00am and 6:00pm from the airport to Skanderberg Square and viceversa. The bus costs 250 lek. A taxi to the centre costs around 2,000 lek and takes 20-25 minutes. By boat Tirana is not a port, so you can8217t get there directly by boat. There are, however, reasonable sea routes from Italy (from the ports in Bari, Trieste, and Ancona) to Durrs, the nearest port to Tirana from where you can take the train (which comes approximately every two hours) or a bus to Tirana. You could also rent a car and be in Tirana in about 20 minutes. Traveling by boat is a pretty good alternative to traveling to Tirana, especially if you are arriving from Italy. By bus Public transportation in Tirana consists of a number of intra-city bus lines. Buses marked 8216Unaze8217 are for the ring road and travel in a loop around the city centre. By foot The city centre is small enough to be explored through walking. By taxi A ride across town should cost 400 lek during the day, 600 lek at night, approximately 4-5 euro. Negotiate a price before entering. By car EBRD is lending the Albanian government 14.6 million to work and fix roads in Tirana. Part of the loan will be used to upgrade the Tirana ring road. However, if venturing out with a rented car be advised that parking is a major problem, while driving is an adventure in itself. By bicycle The ecovolis bicycle sharing program launched in 2011. Bicycles can be rented from a number of locations at Rinia Park and along Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard. Full day ride costs 100 leks. The system is not electronic in that you must interact with a salesperson. Cycling in the street can be quite dangerous and thus not advisable. However, new combined bus and bike lanes have been opened recently on some main streets. Bike only lanes however are located on existing sidewalks along Lana River, and on Kavajes Street. See Sheshi Sknderbej (Skanderbeg Square) Clock Tower (Kulla e Sahatit) Skanderbeg Square, Price: 10 lek Et Skanderbeg Square, National Historic Museum Skanderbeg Square, 355 4 222 34 46, Price: 300 lek National Art Gallery (Galeria Kombetare e Arteve) Bulevardi Deshmoret e Kombit, (gka. al) Price: 100 lek Dshmort e Kombit Boulevard (Bulevardi Dshmort e Kombit (Nation) Murat Toptani Street Bush Street (Rruga Presidenti George W Bush) (Across from Parliament Building and Murat Toptani Street) Taiwan Complex (Kompleksi Tajvani) (kompleksitaiwan) Piramida (International Centre of Culture) Skanderbeg Square, Blloku or Ish-Blloku (The Block) Mainly Rr. Ismail Qemali and nearby streets (take the bus signed) (klubinfo. al) Mother Teresa Square National Library of Albania (Biblioteka Kombtare e Shqipris) Rr. Luigj Gurakuqi, (bksh. al) Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral (Katedralja Ortodokse e Ringjalljes se Krishtit) Rr. Deshmoret e 4 Shkurtit (West of Skanderbeg Square nearby the Ministry of Defence) Sali Shijaku Rr. Vildan Luarasi (A few blocks east of the Train Station) 4 226 1458, Tirana Zoo (Kopshti Zoologjik Tiran) Price: 50 lek Grand Park along the Artificial Lake (Parku i Madh) (southern part of the city) Martyrs Rr. e Elbasanit, Ali Demi Skate Park (Go north-east on the Bulevardi-Bajram-Curri, and then take a right on the Ruga-Ali-Demi. You should go about half a mile on that road. Then the skate park will be directly on your right. You cant miss it its right next to a park with a fountain in the middle of it and a caf with a junglejim, there are many green ramps.) Tirana Mosaic (Mozaiku i Tiranes) Blloku pallateve Partizani, Lagja nr. 9, Do Go for a walk in the evening at one of the several parks and sit for a coffee or drink. Take part in the vibrant nightlife by visiting one of the numerous nightclubs. If you are adventurous and brave enough, try the peculiar experience of driving in the city8217s streets by renting a car, or rent a bicycle from a bike renting station. Cruise the city with a limousine. Sky Tower Rotating Bar. This is a must The rotation is a bit jerky and may leave you slightly seasick. Some of the most popular events are Summer Day celebrations in Mid-March, and Independence Day festivities on November 28. Recently, a number of prestigious festivals have become a tradition in the city8217s calendar of events: Tirana International Film Festival (Tirana Film Fest) (tiranafilmfest/) Tirana International Contemporary Art Biannual (Tirana Biennale) 692069011, (tica-albania. org/TICAB/) Tirana Jazz Fest (movingculture. org/new/jazzfest/2009.php) Rally Albania Mother Teresa Square, 4 2231 586, (rallyalbania. org/) Buy There are plenty of ATMs accepting Cirrus/Maestro and VISA around the city (and there is one at the airport). Adrion International Bookshop Palace of Culture, Skanderberg Square, 4 223 5242, (adrionltd) Unique Blloku, kiosques Rr. Barrikadave and Rr. Durresit (North of Sulejman Pasha Square and across from the Tourist Info Center) Eat There are many excellent, inexpensive restaurants in Tirana serving all kinds of food (but good luck finding a taco). Traditional cuisine can be found at: Sarajet Rr. Abdi Toptani, 4 2243038, (sarajet) Sofra e Ariut Rruga e Elbasanit (Inside Tirana) 4 2372904, (sofraeariut/) Budget Small shops and roadside vendors throughout the city sell foods such as sufllaqe, doner, and gjiro for less than 200 lek. Also try the local specialty, byrek. Big Bite, Mr. Chicken, and Gjiro Kamara are fast food restaurants in Blloku where you get a good taste of Albanian fast food such as Sufllaqe. Kolonat Blloku, Mid-range Gloria King House Yamato Blloku, Also there is a New fast-food called AFC. It serves a lot of things and you can have a lunch or a dinner there. انه امر رائع. Splurge Restaurant Paulo Hotel Mondial (hotelmondial. al/content. aspid344ampidd360) Drink Raki is Albania8217s national alcohol try Boza for something non-alcoholic, the most famous of which is Pacara Boza 355 692481122, (pacaraboza) Price: 1 bottle of 1.5 litters 100 lek Spirit Bar Hotel Mondial (hotelmondial. al/content. aspid344ampidd362) Blloku is the main nightlife spot in the city. Grand Cafe Blloku, Lizard Blloku, Shakesbeer Bar Blloku, Converse, Charls, Steel Wings (Bikers club), Unit, Mos Fli. Clubs in Blloku frequented by die hard rock and metal fans. Budget Budget options in Tirana are hindered by a government 1000 lek per-person tax levied on all the hotels. Hostel-Albania rr. Beqir Luga 56 (hostel. albania) (Close to the Centre. From Skenderbeg Place take Luigj Gurakuqi Street 400m passing the intersection, until you reach the roundabout Sheshi Avni Rustemi. Take 2nd left onto Hoxha Tahsim Street, past the fruit market. Turn right unto Beqir Luga Street. Take the 1st left and 50m on the left is the entrance gate) (hostel-albania) Price: Dorm Beds 11 / Room Beds from 12 Freddy Ground Floor, 75 Bardhok Biba Street (200m from the National History Museum) (freddyshostel/) Price: (Doubles 2-5, triples 5)8230 well we were quoted 35 for a double Aug 2011 Hotel Briker (close to the town centre (5 min walking)) Price: Double/Twin: 40 2011 Tirana Backpackers Hostel Rruga Elbasanit 85 (Near Skanderberg Square) (tiranahostel/) Price: Dorm bed: 1,770 lek Mid-range Hotel Baron Tirana Rruga Elbasanit (near Mother Albania Statue, Qemal Stafa Stadium, and University of Tirana) (0)4 2467649, (hotel-restaurant-baron/en) Price: Single: 35 Double/twin: 50 Tripl e: 55 Quad: 65 Hotel City Tirana Rruga Ismail Qemali, Nr8/1, 355 4 2247799, fax: 355 4 2247799, (hotelcitytirana/) Price: Single: 34-50 Double: 75 Hotel Meg Klaus Hotel Meg Klaus (in a courtyard, street off Rr. Mine Peza) 355 4 223 92 14, fax: 355 4 225 92 36, Price: singles 30, doubles 40 Splurge Hotel Airport Tirana (Hotel Airport Tirana) Rinas Tirana International Airport Mother Teresa (near the Rinas (Tirana) Airport) 355 48300190, fax: 355 4 48300191, (hotelairportirana) Price: Single: 8,850 lek Double: 11,800 lek Hotel Brilant Antik Rr. Jeronim De Rada, No. 78 (Just across the Parliament) 355 4 2251166, (hotelbrilant) Price: 70, breakfast included Hotel Grand Rr. Ismail Qemali 11 (close to the centre of Tirana) (grandhoteltirana/) Price: Single: 120 Double: 160 Hotel Mondial Hotel Theranda (Hotel Theranda) Rr. Andon Zako Cajupi, Villa 6 amp 7, Tirana, Albania (two minutes from the centre, Blloku District) 355 4 2273766 / 689, (therandahotel/) Price: Single: 70 to 100 Double/Twin: 90 to 130 President Hotel Rogner Hotel Europapark Bulevardi Deshmoret e Kombit, (hotel-europapark/) Price: Single: 152 to 176 tax Double/Twin: 170 to 201 tax Sheraton Hotel and Towers Sheshi Italia (Near the stadium) (starwoodhotels/sheraton/property/overview/index. htmlpropertyID1439) Price: Single: from 161 Double: from 216 Tirana International Hotel (In Skanderberg Square) (hoteltirana. al/) Price: Weekend: Single: 60, Double: 70 Weekday: Single: 112, Double: 124-142 Xheko Imperial Hotel Tirana (Xheko Imperial Hotel Tirana address) (xheko-imperial/en/index. html) Contact Main Post Office amp Telephone Centre Sheshi Cameria, Internet Cafes Centre Internet RR Brigada e VIII (Look for the yellow sign down the laneway) Price: 100 lek per hour Internet Point RR Deshmoret e 4 Shkurtit, 7, Price: 100 lek per hour Hospital s Universal Hospital Tirana (phone) (uht. al) Price: Consultation: US20 ABC Family Health Centre Price: Consultation: US20 Klinika IRMA Rruga Dora D (large physician-owned multi-specialty clinic in the city centre, near Bllok) (355)42243000, Price: Consultation: US20 Embassies Greece Rruga Frederik Shiroka, No 3, Tirana, (003554) 2274669, 2274668, 2274670, fax: 2234290 . (mfa. gr/tirana) Itay Papa Gjon Pali II, n.2, Tirana 1010, (003554) 2275900, fax: 2250921 . (ambtirana. esteri. it) Macedonia Rr. Kavajes nr. 116, Tirana, 355 4 223 0909, fax: 355 4 223 2514, (missions. gov. mk/tirana) United Kingdom British Embassy Rruga Skenderbeg 12 Tirana, (355) 4 223 4973, fax: (355) 4 224 7697, (britishembassy. gov. uk/albania) United States Rruga e Elbasanit No. 103, Tirana, Albania, (355) 4 2247 285, fax: (355) 4 2232 222, (tirana. usembassy. gov/) Poland Rruga e Bogdaneve, Tirana, Albania, (355) 4 2234190, fax: (355) 4 2233364, Czech Republic Rruga Skenderbeg No. 10, Tirana, Albania, (355) 4 2234 004, fax: (355) 4 2232 159, (mzv. cz/tirana/en/index. html) Iran Rr. Mustafa Matohiti no. 20, Tirana, Albania, P. O BOX 2909, (003554) 2255038, fax: (003554) 2230409, Get out Mount Dajti (Mount Dajti National Park) Dajt Commune, (dajtiekspres) Price: 500 lek Petrela Castle Suburban Tirana Rruga e Elbasanit (South-East of Tirana) Durrs Lalzit Bay Beach (Gjiri i Lalzit) north of Durres in Shen Pjeter village around Rodon Cape is a popular retreat. A small resort can also be found. General8217s Beach (Plazhi i Gjeneralit) southwest of Kavaje near Spille village is also a popular retreat. The name stems from an Italian general who used to rest at this beach during the world wars. Table of Contents Understand Talk Get in By plane By train By car By bus Get around By foot By tram and bus By rail By car By bike See Do Events Learn Buy Eat Budget Mid-range Splurge Drink Sleep Budget Mid-range Splurge Stay safe Get out Berne (German: Bern), the capital of Switzerland, is a small to medium sized city with a population of about 130,000 in the city proper and roughly 350,000 in the agglomeration area. It sits on a peninsula formed by the meandering turns of the river Aare. The remarkable design coherence of the Berne8217s old town has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It features 4 miles of arcaded walkways along streets decked out with fountains and clock-towers. Bern was one of the eight host cities in the 2008 European Football Championships. Berne was founded in 1191 by Duke Berthold V von Zhringen and was part of the Holy Roman Empire. It was made a free imperial city by the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II in 1218 after Berthold died without an heir. In 1353 Berne joined the Swiss confederation. After several successful conquers, Berne became the largest independent city state north of the alps. It was occupied by French troops in 1798 during the French Revolutionary Wars, and was stripped of a large part of its territory. The city became the Swiss capital in 1848. Talk The main language spoken in Berne is Bernese-German, a Swiss dialect of the Alemannic language, although most people also speak German. Alemannic is mostly a spoken language, but also used in text messages etc. In official publications and announcements, German is used. English seems to be supplanting French as the favorite second language of the Bernese, even though the canton of Berne is a bilingual German and French speaking canton. However, many people you encounter as a tourist will be able to speak both so it8217s certainly worth a try. Get in Berne is in the center of Switzerland and is very well connected with the rest of the country. By plane Berne8217s small international airport with direct flights from Munich, Barcelona and Paris as well as several seasonal destinations in Europe lies just a few kilometers south of the city. A taxi ride into the city costs approx. CHF 30, the airport shuttle bus takes you to the railway station in the center of Berne for CHF 14. Berne is connected to Zurich Airport in 74-78 minutes by IC train routes St. Gallen 8211 Winterthur 8211 Zrich Hbf 8211 Berne 8211 Genve Aroport or Romanshorn 8211 Winterthur 8211 Zrich Hbf 8211 Berne 8211 Brig By train Bern is conveniently located in the vast network of Swiss Federal Railway between Geneva, Basel and Zurich and is served twice per hour by express (InterCity) trains from each of these cities as well as Zrich and Geneva airports. Hourly express trains take you into all directions, including Interlaken, Brig, and Lucerne. For more information: Swiss Federal Railway 41 (0)900 300 300 (CHF 1.19/min), (rail. ch/) Swiss travel System (swisstravelsystem. ch/en/) By car Berne is easily reachable with the national motorway network from all directions and has several exits from motorways A1, A12 and A6. By bus Berne has an excellent public transportation system, with frequent local city services provided by trams, trolleybuses and buses, together with an S-Bahn rail system for longer journeys into the surrounding suburbs. By foot The city center of Berne is easily accessible by foot. You can get around the main shopping area and restaurants simply by walking. But if you are going to go outside of the city center in areas like Guisanplatz, it8217s better to go by tram unless you want to be walking for 45 minutes. By tram and bus Bernmobil 41 (0)31 321 88 88, (bernmobil. ch/english/index. php) Ticket for one ride (Einzelbillette) is CHF4.00 daily pass (Tageskarte) is CHF12 (2008). The city used to provide a 8220Berncard8221, an integrated ticket good for unlimited rides on all modes of transport within the city and the surrounding area (including the Gurtenbahn funicular to the top of the Gurten hill 8211 see below) as well as free or discounted admission to many of the museums and attractions for the price of CHF20/31/38 for 24/48/72 hours from the moment of validation. As of October 2009, the card is not offered anymore. By rail Berne8217s S-Bahn rail system will take you to many places in the suburbs and even to other nearby cities like Biel, Thun, Fribourg or Solothurn. S-Bahn Bern 41 (0)31 327 27 27, (s-bahn-bern. ch/) By car As in most Swiss cities, free parking space is rare and the paying ones in the city center are quite expensive. As the center is quite small and all of the major attractions are within a mile walking distance it8217s a good choice to park in a 8220park and ride8221 and take public transport to the center of town. By bike You can get a free bike for four hours at 8220Hirschengraben8221. All you need is an ID and 20 CHF for deposit, and you can explore Berne by bike. After four hours, you8217ll have to pay 1CHF each hour. The 8220Hirschengraben8221 is less than five minutes away from the main train station. It8217s a stop for trams. Ask somebody, it8217s easy to find See Berne is full of history and museums. It also has quite a bit of public art, all of which is marked on a walking map which is available from the tourist office in the train station for free. Berne Historical Museum Helvetiaplatz 5, 41 (0)31 350 77 11, (bhm. ch/) Bundeshaus (Federal Palace of Switzerland) Bundesplatz 3, (parlament. ch/e/homepage/in-pg-fuehrungen. htm) Price: Free Einsteinhaus Kramgasse 49, 41 (0)31 312 00 91, (einstein-bern. ch) Price: CHF 6/4.5 Adults/Students. Invasion of Berne 8212 successful (space-invaders) Kunstmuseum (Museum of fine Arts) Hodlerstrasse 12, 41 (0)31 328 09 44, (kunstmuseumbern. ch/) Swiss Alpine Museum Helvetiaplatz 4, 41 (0)31 350 04 40, (alpinesmuseum. ch) Tierpark Dhlhlzli (Zoo) Tierparkweg 1, 41 (0)31 357 15 15, (tierpark-bern. ch) Zentrum Paul Klee Monument im Fruchtland 3 (Bus No. 12 to the end of the line) 41 (0)31 359 01 01, (zpk. org/) Price: CHF16 ( Zytglogge (en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Zytglogge) Price: Free Do Bear Pits Price: Free Gurten (gurtenpark. ch/) Price: Free Rosengarten (berninfo/en/navpage. cfmcategorySightsBETampsubcatAttractionsBETampid32451) SC Bern On hot summer days, let yourself drift for some kilometers in the river Aare. Good (and safe) stretches are between the Kornhausbridge and the public pool of the Lorraine (old fashioned swimming pool just next to the river) and between the Eichholz and the public pool of the Marzili. Other stretches such as swimming the bend around the old town (starting at the 8220Englische Anlagen8221 to the Lorraine) or the 8220Bremgartenschlaufe8221 are only to be done by good swimmers accompanied by experienced locals. BTW: Entrance to public pools is free of charge. This makes it a good idea to choose a swim that ends at a public pool so you can have a shower afterwards. Tramdepot (altestramdepot. ch/htm/ehome. htm) Events Gurtenfestival (gurtenfestival. ch/) Price: 1 day pass CHF 75, 2 days 115, 3 days 155, 4 days 195 International Jazzfestival Bern (jazzfestivalbern. ch/html/homee. htm) Buskers Bern (buskersbern. ch/) Learn Berne is home to the prestigious University of Berne which currently enrolls approximately 13,000 students. In addition, the city has the University of Applied Science also known as Berner Fachhochschule. There are also many vocational schools and an office of the Goethe Institut. Buy As with most other cities in Switzerland, store opening and closing hours in Berne are strictly regulated but were slightly relaxed on 1st January 2007. All stores, including grocers must close by 7PM from Monday to Friday, except on Thursdays they remain open untill 9PM. On Saturdays everything must close by 5PM. The stores are closed on Sundays. Stores inside the railway station are allowed longer opening times. Both major supermarket chains Migros and Coop have a store inside the station so you8217ll be able to get relatively cheap groceries even on Sundays. Rathausgasse and the streets parallel to it have any number of cute shops with an amazing range of handicraft and luxury goods. This is not the normal range of swiss souvenir stuff, but really interesting things. There are a couple of worthy examples below, but the real pleasure is in spending a few hours (or days) exploring the arcades and vitrines. Yamatuti Aarbergergasse 16-18, 41 (0)31 318 26 56, Krompholz Music Spitalgasse 28 (Just around the corner from the main train station) 41 (0)31 311 3489, (krompholz. ch) Eat Eating in Berne (or almost anywhere in Switzerland for that matter) can be an expensive proposition for foreign tourists. Be sure to 8220shop around8221 before deciding on a restaurant as many cater to said foreign tourists (especially those serving traditional Swiss food) and have inflated their prices accordingly. Most Bernese natives prefer Italian, Asian, or other non-local cuisine so finding a traditional Swiss restaurant with acceptable prices can often be a a daunting experience. Be patient and you will persevere without breaking the bank. Budget Suan Long Rail City, underneath main station, Bern, 41 (0)31 311 87 88, Price: 17-25 francs Beaulieu Erlachstrasse 3, 41 (0)31 301 24 59, fax: 41 (0)31 305 86 55, (restaurantbeaulieu. ch) Sous le Pont 41 (0)31 306 69 55, (souslepont. ch) Wbere Gerechtigkeitsgasse 68, 41 (0)31 311 42 58, fax: 41 (0)31 312 20 67, Price: CHF 14-24 Mid-range Altes Tramdepot Grosser Muristalden, Bern. (Across bridge at east end of city centre, by bear pit.) 031 368 14 15, (altestramdepot. ch) Price: CHF 20 8211 40 Caf Fdral Brenplatz 31, 41 (0)31 311 16 24, (entrecote. ch) Casino Restaurant Herrengasse 25, 41 (0)31 328 03 28, (casinobern. ch) Kornhaus Kornhausplatz 18, 41 (0)31 327 72 70, fax: 41 (0)31 327 72 71, (kornhaus. org/kkeller. html) Price: CHF 26-45 for the main dish. CHF 9-14 for appetizers. Restaurant Muesmatt Freiestrasse 65, 41 (0)31 508 22 02, (muesmatt. be) Price: CHF 22-40 for the main dish. CHF 8-12 for appetizers. Schmiedstube Schmiedenplatz 5, 41 (0)31 311 34 61, (schmiedstube) Schwellenmtteli Dalmaziquai 11, 41 (0)31 350 50 01, (schwellenmaetteli. ch) Price: CHF 20-40 for a main dish Splurge Bellevue Palace Kochergasse 3-5, 41 (0)31 320 45 45, fax: 41 (0)31 47 43, (bellevue-palace. ch) Restaurant Rosengarten Alter Aargauerstalden 31b, 41 (0)31 331 32 06, (rosengarten. be/start. htm) Drink Many Bernese will tell you that nightlife in Berne is not exactly what you might call spectacular, but they8217re probably comparing it to Zurich or Paris. There are quite a few good spots to hang out at. For a drink or two, there8217s a wide choice of bars all over town. However, you might be disappointed with most central options as they tend to be annoyingly conventional, though there are an ample number of exceptions: Du Nord Lorrainestrasse 2 (just across Lorraine Bridge from the city center) 41 (0)31 332 23 38., Caf Kairo Dammweg 43, 3013 Bern, (cafe-kairo. ch/) Kornhaus Caf Kornhausplatz 18, 41 (0)31 327 72 70, Kornhausbar Cuba Kornhausplatz 14, 41 (0)31 311 64 86, Most of the towns cooler bars are located around the main clubbing venues though. In the ancient Matte neighborhood, which is well worth a daytime visit too, you8217ll find nightlife options for almost every taste. Dampfzentrale Marzilistrasse 47, 41 (0)31 310 05 40, (dampfzentrale. ch) PROGRcenter for cultural production Waisenhausplatz 30/ Speichergasse 4, 41 (0)31 318 82 70, (progr. ch/) Reitschule Neubrckstrasse 8, 41 (0)31 306 69 69, (reitschule. ch/) Silo Bar Mhlenplatz 11, 41 (0)31 311 54 12, (silobar. ch) Wasserwerk Club (wasserwerk. ch) Kursaal-Bern (Meridiano) Kornhausstrasse 3 3000 Bern 25, 41 (0)31 339 55 00, (kursaal-bern. ch/en/restaurants-bars/meridiano) Price: 20-76 CHF Sleep The main train station has a tourist office on the west side on the ground floor. They8217ll try to help you find a hotel room, if you arrive without booking. However, it is better to book ahead if you can, as Berne is a capital city the budget hotels do tend to fill up on the weekends. Budget Landhaus Altenbergstrasse 4 (near the bear pit) 41 (0)31 331 41 66, fax: 41 (0)31 332 69 04, (landhausbern. ch) Price: CHF 90-160 Berne backpackers 8211 Hotel Glocke Rathausgasse 75, 41 (0)31 311 37 71, fax: 41 (0)31 311 10 08, (bernbackpackers) Price: Prices from CHF 31.- per person, per night Youth Hostel Weihergasse 4, 41 (0)31 311 63 16, (jugendherberge. ch) Mid-range Astoria Swiss Quality Hotel Zieglerstrasse 66, (swissqualityhotels/Hotels/switzerland/Bern/Astoria/index. asplangen) Bern Swiss Quality Hotel Zeughausgasse 9, CH-3011, fax: 41 (0)31 329 22 99, (hotelbern. ch) Kreuz Zeughausgasse 41, CH-3011, fax: 41 (0)31 329 95 96, Metropole Zeughausgasse 26, CH-3000, fax: 41 (0)31 329 94 95, (hotelmetropole. ch) Splurge Bellevue Palace Kochergasse 3 8211 5, 41 (0)31 320 45 45, (bellevue-palace. ch) Price: Doubles from CHF 350 per night, presidential suite from CHF 2500 a night. Hotel Bern Zeughausgasse 9, 41 (0)31 329 22 22, fax: 41 (0)31 329 22 99, (hotelbern. ch/hotelbern. htmlampL2) Price: Doubles start at CHF 180. Stay safe Berne is a very safe place with nearly no violent crime. However, as it is the capital of Switzerland, it sees political demonstrations every few weeks on a variety of subjects, occasionally leading to police intervention. The central railway station often hosts drunks and vagrants at night, which is a nuisance but in general not dangerous. Recently there has been a slight increase in violence from young people. Try to avoid groups of drunk teenagers that look suspicious and you should be fine. While police officers in Berne will happily help you out if you are in trouble or need an information, they are also known for approaching 8220suspicious8221 persons in order to check their papers. This procedure is annoying, but legal as you will probably have a hard time proving you were not acting suspicious. Carry a photocopy of your passport and your onward ticket with you, stay calm and polite and you won8217t have much trouble. Get out Berne is an ideal gateway to the Bernese Highlands. You can make day trips to many famous and/or beautiful locations, like Spiez, Interlaken, Grindelwald, Jungfraujoch or Gstaad. Table of Contents City centre Outer districts Orientation Attitudes Climate By plane Schiphol by train Schiphol by local transport Schiphol by taxi Schiphol, other modes of transport Other airports By train By bus By car By sea On foot and bike Public transport Trains Car Taxis Tuk-Tuks Architecture Churches amp Synagogues Modern architecture Windmills Museums Zoo and botanical garden Attractions and tours City beaches Red Light District Do Amsterdam for free Festivals Learn Work Buy Street markets Eat Smoking Ban Places to eat Local specialties Places to avoid Budget Drink Bars and pubs Nightclubs Coffeeshops Sleep Internet Telephone General Neighborhoods Cannabis and other drugs Publications Religious services Get out North Holland Further destinations Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands with impressive architecture, lovely canals that criss cross the city, great shopping, and friendly people who nearly all speak English well. There is something for every traveller8217s taste here, whether you prefer culture and history, serious partying, or just the relaxing charm of an old European city. Amsterdam has over a million inhabitants in the urban area, and is in the Province of North-Holland. Amsterdam is not the seat of government (which is in The Hague), but it is the biggest city and the cultural and creative centre of the Netherlands. The 8220Amsterdam8221 that most visitors experience is the city centre, the semi-circle with Central Station at its apex. It corresponds to the city as it was around 1850. Five major concentric canals ring the Old Centre the Singel, the Herengracht, the Keizersgracht, the Prinsengracht, and the Singelgracht, together forming the Canal Ring. Other districts inside the city centre are the Jordaan, a working-class area gone upmarket, and Plantage, a leafy and spacious area known for its zoo and botanical gardens. The roads Nassaukade, Stadhouderskade, and Mauritskade surround the centre and mark the location of the former city moat and fortifications. Almost everything outside this line was built after 1870. The semi-circle is on the south side of the IJ, often called a river but more exactly is an estuary. Going east from Central Station, the railway passes the artificial islands of the redeveloped Eastern Docklands. North of the IJ is mainly housing, although a major dockland redevelopment has started there too. The river Amstel flows into the city from the south. Originally, it flowed along the line Rokin-Damrak. The dam in the Amstel, which gives the city its name, was located under the present Bijenkorf department store. The original settlement was on the right bank of the Amstel, on the present Warmoesstraat: it is therefore the oldest street in the city. The city has expanded in all directions, except to the north of the ring motorway. The region there, the Rural North, is a protected rural landscape of open fields and small villages that could be considered as part of the Waterland region. The radius of the semicircle is about 2 km. All major tourist destinations, and most hotels, are located inside it or just outside it. As a result, much of Amsterdam is never visited by tourists: at least 90 of the population lives outside this area. Most economic activity in Amsterdam the offices of the service sector, and the port is on or outside the ring motorway, which is 4-5 km from the centre. The expansion of Amsterdam outside this beltway, and the expansion of activity outside the old centre, is redefining what locals consider the 8216central area8217 of Amsterdam. Without a doubt the most popular district outside of the city centre is South for its quality museums and gentrified neighbourhood 8216De Pijp8217. Attitudes Many people choose to visit Amsterdam because of its reputation for tolerance, although part of this reputation is attributable to cultural misunderstandings. Prostitution is legalized and licensed in the Netherlands, and in Amsterdam it is very visible (window prostitution), and there are large numbers of prostitutes. The sale, possession, and consumption of small quantities of cannabis, while technically illegal, is tolerated by authorities (the policy of gedogen). This does not mean that you can get away with anything in Amsterdam. In any case, public attitudes and official policy have hardened in recent years. For more on coffee shops and drugs, see below in Stay safe. Depending on your viewpoint some people will consider Amsterdam an unwholesome city whereas other people will find their relaxed attitudes refreshing. If you avoid the red light district, Amsterdam is an excellent family destination. Most people in Amsterdam, young or old, seem to speak at least some conversational English. Climate Amsterdam is a large city and a major tourist destination, so you can visit it all year round. However, in winter the days are short (8 hours daylight around Christmas), and the weather may be too cold to walk around the city comfortably, let alone cycle. January and February are the coldest months, with lows around -1C and highs around 5C. July and August are the warmest months, with an average temperature of 72F (22C). Some things are seasonal: the tulip fields flower only in the spring, and Queen8217s Day (Koninginnedag) is always on 30 April, unless it falls on a Sunday. Queen Beatrix was actually born on 31 January, but since January is very cold, the celebrations are held on the day she became the queen of the Netherlands, which is also the birthday of her mother, Juliana. By plane Amsterdam Airport Schiphol () () is one of the busiest airports in the world, situated 15 km south-west of the city. The national carrier for the Netherlands is KLM. now merged with Air France. With partner Delta Air Lines they offer worldwide connections. The US, Asia and Europe are particularly well served at Schiphol. British Airways offer up to 15 flights per day to 3 London Airports Heathrow, Gatwick and London City. Transavia. Jet2. Easyjet. and other low-cost carriers serve Schiphol, providing a fairly economical way to city-hop to Amsterdam from other spots in Europe. When leaving Amsterdam, give yourself enough time to get to your plane and through security (especially when flying to the United States) Schiphol is a large airport 8211 be there at least 1 hr in advance. If you have time to kill, drop into the Rijksmuseum8217s Schiphol branch, between E and F Pier (non-Schengen area airside), which is free and open 7AM-8PM daily. Coin-operated storage lockers are located along the main hallway through the transit/departure area, across from the start of the E wing. From 5 per 24 hr, maximum one week. Schiphol by train From Schiphol there is a direct train to Amsterdam Central Station, for 3.70 (or 7.40 for same-day return), in 20 min. Buy the ticket from the machine (yellow with blue writing) if you purchase your ticket at the counter you will pay 0.50 extra. Not all machines accept credit or debit cards. The train station at Schiphol is located underground, under the main airport hall trains to Amsterdam Central Station usually run from platform 3. There are 4 to 5 trains per hour between Schiphol and Amsterdam in peak times. Trains run all night, although between 1AM and 5AM only once an hour. The price and duration of the journey are the same as during the day. Watch out for pick-pockets and baggage thieves: a common trick is a knock on your window to distract you, so that an accomplice can steal your luggage or laptop. Another one is to have an accomplice jam the doors and then steal your luggage. The thief jumps out and the door immediately closes, making it impossible to catch them. However, in recent years, railway police have made a great effort to reduce this sort of crime nowadays it is at 8216normal8217, big-city like levels. Schiphol by local transport If you are desperately trying to save money or are staying near Leidseplein, you could use local transport from Schiphol to central Amsterdam. A trip takes about 30 min and leads directly to the south-west of the centre of Amsterdam (namely Museumplein and Leidseplein). Take local bus 197 which costs you 2.38 to Leidseplein using the OV-chipkaart (see below), or 4.00 on board. Bus 197 currently runs every 15 min for most of the day, daily from 5:01AM till midnight. From midnight till 5AM, night buses run to and from the airport. If you don8217t want to change buses, take night bus N97 for 4. This bus runs once an hour. Schiphol by taxi Do not use a taxi unless there is no alternative travel to Schiphol by train or by bus, if possible. Taxis from Schiphol are expensive and priced unexpectedly. You pay around 7.50 (as of Oct 08) as a minimum charge and that includes the first 2 km. Then the meter starts racing. The ride costs about 40-50 to go to, say, the Leidseplein. Depending on the time of day and traffic levels, it could take only 25 min. If you8217re unlucky, it could take twice as long. Choose the nicest cab as that driver is more likely to be reputable. You don8217t have to pick the first taxi in line. If possible, reserve a cab up-front, this will ensure a fixed price for the ride. Schiphol, other modes of transport The Connexxion Hotel Shuttle serves over 100 city centre hotels, with 8-seater shared van departures about every 30 minutes between 6 AM and 9 PM, cost to most city centre destinations 15.50/25.00 one-way/return 8212 more convenient than the train if you have heavy luggage and still cheaper than a taxi. Buses depart from platform A7 and can be reserved for the trip back 31 38 3394741. If you plan to rent a car for the duration of your stay, Schiphol has several car rental companies on site. Typical opening hours are 6AM-11PM daily. The car rental desk can be found in Schiphol Plaza, on the same level as the arrival halls. The A4 motorway leads straight from Schiphol to the Amsterdam ring road A10, in about 10 min. If you decided to bring your bicycle on the plane with you, there is a 15-kilometer sign-posted bike route from the airport to Amsterdam. Turn right as you leave the airport terminal: the cycle path starts about 200 metres down the road. There is a map of the cycle paths around Schiphol available on (green lines are cycle paths). Other airports Using airports other than Schiphol could prove cheaper in some cases, as some budget airlines fly to Eindhoven and Rotterdam Airports. Then buses and trains can be used to get to Amsterdam. Renting a car is also an option. A taxi is not advisable, from Rotterdam to Amsterdam a taxi would cost 130, and from Eindhoven even more. From Eindhoven Airport (, ) take a local bus (Hermes bus 401, duration about 25 minutes, frequency about four times per hour, 3.20 on board or 2.05 using a 15 strippenkaart or 1.71 using an OV-chipkaart) to the train station, from there take a train to Amsterdam (duration 1hr 20 min, frequency four times per hour, single 17.20). Alternatively, take the express bus directly from the airport to Amsterdam central station, which takes 2 hr 15 min. This service goes only 3 to 4 times per day see their website for a schedule. The ticket price is 25.50 for a single or 42.50 for a return. From Rotterdam The Hague Airport (, ) (8220Zestienhoven8221) take a city bus (RET 8220airport shuttle8221 bus 33, duration 25-30 minutes, frequency every 10-20 minutes, 2.50 on board or 1.39 using the OV-chipkaart) to Rotterdam Centraal train station, from there take a train to Amsterdam (duration about an hour, frequency every 10-20 minutes, single 13.40). Schiphol airport is 11 km from the centre of Amsterdam in a straight line, Rotterdam is 57 km and Eindhoven is 107 km. Other airports that could possibly be used are: Groningen Airport Eelde (142 km) () Maastricht Aachen Airport (173 km) () Weeze Airport in Germany (121 km) () Antwerp International Airport in Belgium (135 km) () Brussels Airport in Belgium (167 km) () By train Most trains arrive and depart from Amsterdam Centraal Station (with one extra 8216a8217 in Dutch), located between the old centre and the IJ waterfront. Other train stations are Duivendrecht, Bijlmer-ArenA (both southeast), Amstel, Muiderpoort (both east), RAI, Zuid-WTC (both south), Lelylaan and Sloterdijk (both west). Schiphol airport also has its own train station, which functions as a major hub within the Netherlands. It has at least seven trains an hour to Amsterdam Central, with additional trains going to other Amsterdam stations. Direct international trains run to Brussels (which is 2 hr 30 min to 3 hr away and connects with Eurostar trains to London St Pancras and Ebbsfleet (Kent) in England), Paris, Cologne, Frankfurt, Berlin, Copenhagen, Milan, Zurich, Vienna, Prague and Moscow. See NS Hispeed for an international journey planner for trains into/out of the Netherlands. By bus Most international bus services are affiliated to Eurolines, which has a terminal at Amstel Station (train station, metro station 51, 53, 54, tram 12). One bus per day is usually the maximum frequency on these routes. There are other international bus services, but they are often aimed at very specific markets, e. g. Polish migrant workers. There are almost no long-distance internal bus services in the Netherlands, and none to Amsterdam. By car The western part of the Netherlands has a dense (and congested) road network. Coming from the east (Germany), the A1 motorway leads directly to Amsterdam. On the A12 from Arnhem, change at Utrecht to the A2 northbound. From the south (Belgium), the A2 goes directly to Amsterdam: the A16 /A27 from Antwerp via Breda connects to the A2 south of Utrecht. From The Hague, the A4 leads to Amsterdam. All motorways to Amsterdam connect to the ring motorway, the A10. From this motorway, main roads lead radially into Amsterdam (the roads S101 through S118). In most cases, you should want to avoid going to the city centre by car: traffic is dense and parking spaces are expensive and nearly impossible to find. Instead, when on the A10, follow the signs to one of the PR-spots (PR Zeeburg to the east, PR ArenA and PR Olympisch Stadion to the south, PR Sloterdijk to the west). Here, you can park your car, and take public transport to the city centre, for a single fare. There are also a few places a short walk from outer tram stops to park for free. The speed limit on Dutch motorways is 120 km/h, except where indicated. On the A10 ring motorway around Amsterdam, the maximum speed is 100 km/h, and 80 km/h on the Western section. These limits are strictly enforced and there are many speed cameras. By sea The maritime Passenger Terminal Amsterdam is close to the city centre but is only for cruise ships. The nearest ferry port is IJmuiden (ferry from Newcastle upon Tyne) with DFDS Seaways, who offer a daily overnight ferry services from Newcastle-upon-Tyne (North Shields) in the United Kingdom see (official site). 125 km away by car there is a ferry terminal at Rotterdam Europoort (ferry from Kingston Upon Hull), and Hook of Holland (ferry from Harwich). it8217s about 80 km by the road to Amsterdam by the most direct route. Hook of Holland has an train station. Take the train to Schiedam Centrum or Rotterdam Centraal and from there a train to Amsterdam. On foot and bike Amsterdam8217s centre is fairly small, and almost abnormally flat, so you can easily get to most tourist destinations on foot 8211 from the train station, within half an hour. A pleasant way to cover a lot of ground is to rent a bicycle. There are approximately 750,000 people living in Amsterdam and they own about 600,000 bicycles. The city is very, very bike-friendly, and there are separate bike lanes on most major streets. In the city centre, however, there is often not enough space for a bike lane, so cars and cyclists share narrow streets. Cyclists do not have the right of way even though it might appear so when observing the typical Amsterdammer8217s cycling behaviour. Be very careful and cycle defensively, also watch out for other cyclists. If not indicated otherwise by signs, the right-before-left rule applies. Avoid getting your tire in the tram rails it8217s a nasty fall. Always cross tram rails at an angle. When crossing tram lanes, watch out for fast approaching taxis. They have a rather ruthless driving style. Let none of the above deter you from doing it the Amsterdam way. Rent a bike There are bike rental shops at stations, and several others in and around the city centre. Bikes cost about 9 to 20 per day. (Bring wet gear.) A good map for cycling (routes, repairs, rentals also public transport) is Amsterdam op de fiets (a Cito-plan). When preparing a route, there8217s a digital bicycle route-planner for Amsterdam, see Routecraft Bicycles can be taken for free on all ferries across the IJ, and on all metros and some carriages of tram 26 using the bike supplement fee (1.50 in 2010) on the OV chipcard. Use the special bike racks, locations indicated by a bicycle sign on the outside of the carriage. Make sure to get a good lock (or two), and to use it. Amsterdam has one of the highest bicycle theft rates in the world, see the Netherlands page. Note also that if buying a bike, prices that seem too good to be true are stolen bikes. Any bike offered for sale to passers-by, on the street, is certainly stolen. There8217s an old Amsterdam joke When calling out to a large group cyclists passing by 8220Hey, that8217s my bike8221 about five people will jump off 8220their8221 bikes and start running. Star Bikes Rental. Classic and solid dutch bikes for those who want to fit in with the locals. They have the traditional black granny, pick-ups, tandems, bikes for kids and for disabled needs. Prices: 5 (4 hr) 8211 7 (full day) 8211 9 (24 hr), 2 lockers included. This business is located behind Central Station. You can also arrange exclusive picnic and barbacue sets within your rental. MacBike Bicycle Rental. Perhaps the most ubiquitous bicycle rental agency in Amsterdam, their bicycles are painted red with a MacBike sign on the front, everyone will know you8217re visiting. The bicycles are reliable, and in very good condition. Several locations around the city centre for assistance or repairs. Online bicycle reservations at their website. Orangebike, Rentals amp Tours. Their bikes are not so obvious coloured, more discrete, reliable and sturdy. The typical Dutch Grandmother bikes are available at Orangebike. 3 hr historical city tour by bike for 19.50. Online reservations available. Frederic Bike, insurance, bags, locks, and children seats all included for 10 a day. Extremely close to central station. Bikes are offered 8220incognito8221, for the discerning guest who does not want to appear 8220touristy8221. Damstraat Offer daily to weekly rentals. Have promotions in place with several hotels for 8220discount tickets8221, ask at the front desk. 12.50 for the first 24 hr, insurance included. Offers repairs for your bike and new and used bike sales. Het Zwarte Fietsenplan. Rent traditional Dutch bikes. Explore Amsterdam on a traditional black bike. There are no bright red, yellow, blue or orange bikes in their shops. There are 3 locations throughout the city centre and the shops have long opening hours, 7 days a week. Also rents out cagobikes for kids. The bicycle is ideal for exploring the surrounding countryside. Within half an hour you8217re out of town. Go North, take the ferry across the IJ to Waterland. Or go South, into the Amsterdamse Bos (a giant park), or follow the river Amstel where Rembrandt worked. You can also take your bike on the metro (with a reduced fare ticket, see public transport gvb. nl ) to end of line Gaasperplas, and cycle along rivers and windmills to old fortified towns like Weesp. Muiden and Naarden. Public transport Public transport within the city is operated by the GVB (Gemeentevervoerbedrijf ). The tram (18 lines) is the main form of public transport system in the central area, and there are also dozens of (night-)bus routes. Regional buses, and some suburban buses, are operated by Connexxion and Arriva. All tram stops have a detailed map of the system and the surrounding area. You can also get a free public transport map at the GVB Tickets amp Info offices (just outside Centraal Station). There is a four line metro, including a short underground section in the city centre, that serves the neighborhoods of the South East. It takes 15-20 min from Centraal Station or Waterlooplein to the Bijlmer (Amsterdam Arena stadium, Heineken Music Hall and Pathe Arena cinema and IMAX). A fifth metro line, the north/south line, is currently under construction. This big project started in 2003 to build a new underground metro line to connect the north of Amsterdam with the south (the Noord/Zuidlijn or North/Southline). The project has proved somewhat of a disaster for the city government with big budget overruns and delays. Building in the wet underground of Amsterdam is difficult and some buildings along the line have sustained damage due to subsidence. For the visitor to Amsterdam, the only thing to note are the ongoing roadworks along the route of the metro line. Underground metro stations are still being built or finished often causing parts of roads to be blocked off to cars, buses and trams for an extended time. Usually you can pass on foot or bicycle. In 2011 building work is being undertaken in the city centre at Central Station, Damrak, Rokin and Vijzelgracht/Weteringcircuit. A new national ticketing system has recently been introduced, based on a contactless card, called OV-chipkaart (8220Public Transport chip card8221). Since 3 June 2010, the old 8216strippenkaart8217 system has been abandoned on all forms of public transport in Amsterdam, making the chipkaart the only valid way of travelling in Amsterdam. To travel with a card, one has to check in at the start of the journey and check out at the end by holding the card in front of the card reader. Three types of OV-chipkaart are available: a personal card on which you can load weekly/monthly/yearly subscriptions an anonymous card on which you can load money which can be spend on public transport a disposable card which can be used for a limited number of hours/trips only The first two types carry a fee of 7.50 for the card itself, and you have to have at least 4 on it to be able to travel. The OV-chipkaart can be obtained from GVB vending machines in all metro stations, from the desks at some bigger stations (including Centraal Station) and some shops (see ). For visitors, the most useful type of travel pass is probably the 24/48/72/96/120/144/168 hour ticket. This allows the holder to travel on an unlimited number of journeys on the tram, metro and (night)bus throughout the validity period of the pass. On a tram, only the 24 hr ticket is available. These passes are also available at tourist offices (located at Schiphol airport and just outside Centraal Station), AKO bookstores in Schiphol Airport and Centraal Station, many hotels and GVB Tickets amp Info. Day passes are not valid on busses operated by Connexxion and Arriva. Prices as of Jan 2010: 7/24 hours, 11.50/48 hours, 15.50/72 hours, 19.50/96 hours, 23/120 hours, 26/144 hours and 29/168 hours. If you stay longer in Amsterdam, you can buy discounted weekly or monthly tickets from most post offices or other ticket sale points which are cheaper. GVB tickets are not valid on trains to Schiphol airport. You can use them on buses to Schiphol but it8217s usually quicker to get there by train. For current information on the Dutch Public Transportation-system (8216Openbaar Vervoer8217 or O. V. in Dutch/NL) check online Openbaar Vervoer (O. V.). Most trams these days have conductors, near the rear of the tram. Board by the driver or the conductor. If you have questions, the conductor will be sure to respond to your query. You can also buy 1 hr and 24 hr tickets at the conductors. Enter buses only via the front door. There are several free ferry services across the IJ river, to Amsterdam North, the most frequent runs every 7 min. They all leave from a new jetty on the northern (rear) side of Centraal Station. The nicest one is the 15 min service to NDSM Werf, a funky, up and coming, industrial neighborhood with a nice cafe-bar (IJkantine) restaurant (Noorderlicht), indoor skateboard park, and the Pancake Boat (Pannekoekenboot) which sails many times each week. Ferries leave every 30 min from Centraal Station and from NDSM Werf. Double frequencies during rush hours. Trains For journeys outside the city, the train is usually the best option. Besides some exceptions, all trains in the Netherlands are operated by the Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS, 8220Dutch Railways8221). Their website has English-language information. In the whole of the Netherlands, you must purchase a ticket before boarding a train. Ticket machines are the standard way to buy a ticket, it costs 50 cents extra to buy a ticket at ticket counters, and at Central Station, there are often long lines at these counters. Older machines are not in English and as such can be difficult to interpret. New machines come with a language selection, and support English, Dutch, French and German but usually accept only credit and debit cards (note that many foreign credit and debit cards do not work in most NS ticket machines). In Central Station, there is a machine that accepts cash in the hallway in front of the ticket office. You face a fine of 35, due immediately, if you are caught on the train without a ticket. The chance of getting caught without a ticket is almost certain on main routes during the day, but there is always a random element. For discount tickets and rail passes see the Netherlands page. Car It is practical to use a car only outside of the historic centre within the historic centre, the traveller is advised to stay with public transport. In Amsterdam, a car is generally a liability and not an asset. Use a car only if you are going to an obscure location many miles out that is not served by public transport. Driving around Amsterdam is a pain: many of the streets are narrow, the traffic (and parking) signs are baroque and obscure, and cyclists and pedestrians may get in your way. Plus, petrol is about 1.54 to 1.7 per litre. You can try parking at one of the secured parking garages, for example under Museumplein, or near the Central Station, and then walk around the city centre, or use a tram. Car parking is very expensive in Amsterdam and it8217s often hard to find a place to park. You can choose to pay by the hour or for the whole day. Parking is free outside the centre on Sunday. There is always a spot available on the Albert Cuypstraat (which is a market during the rest of the week). From there, it is a 5 minute tram ride or 15 min walk downtown. Another option is to park your car further outside the city-centre. For 8,- you get a full day (24 hr) of parking and a return ticket downtown. The ride takes about 15 minutes. Look for the PR (Park and Ride) signs. You can also park for free in some parts of Amsterdam outside the city centre though this may be slowly changing. Parking is still free everywhere in Amsterdam-Noord, and you can just take the bus from the Mosplein stop to the city centre easily. Plenty of buses run through here. Popular car rental chains operate in a smaller capacity in Amsterdam, including Avis and Budget Rent a Car. Taxis Taxis in Amsterdam are plentiful but expensive. Hailing taxis on the street is generally not to be recommended unless you are going to a big landmark (e. g. Central Station or Schiphol). The recent liberalisation of the taxi service in Amsterdam has meant an influx of taxi drivers who have little or no clue of where they are going and who drive erratically and dangerously (e. g. driving on bicycle lanes instead of the main road or ignoring red lights). Tourists are advised to stick to public transport if at all possible. Get into a taxi only if you know the route yourself and are able to give directions to the taxi driver and if you know roughly how much the journey ought to cost so you don8217t get cheated. Some drivers, traditionally at Centraal Station or Leidseplein, will refuse short trips or will quote outrageously high fares, even though all taxis are metered. Even if you convince the driver to use the meter, he will often take a circuitous route that racks up 15 or more on the meter. For reference, no trip within the historic centre should cost more than 10 or so. The Netherlands (and Amsterdam) is in the middle of a huge taxi liberalization scheme which has been jarring to all involved. After many missteps, the government has introduced an unusual pricing scheme. First you feel sticker shock as the initial fare is now 7.50. Luckily, that includes the first two kilometres of travel and there is no charge for waiting in traffic. If you need to run in somewhere, you need to negotiate a waiting fee with the driver. 50 cents per minute is customary. Unlicensed, illegal, cabbies operate mainly in Amsterdam Zuidoost. These aren8217t easily recognized as such, and most certainly don8217t drive Mercedes cars. They are known as snorders and most easily reached by mobile phone. Rides within Amsterdam Zuidoost (the Bijlmer) range from 2.50 to 5, whereas Zuidoost-Centre can run up to 12.50. Snorders have a shady reputation, so consider their services only if you are adventurous. Tuk-Tuks A Thai-influenced transportation service using three-wheeled, open-air (but covered) motorized vehicles was introduced in August 2007 and may be a more economical and fast way to get around the city centre compared to taxis. Tuk-tuk pricing is based on a zone system. Within a zone, a ride is 3.50 per person, 5 for 2 persons and 6.50 for 3. If you go to another zone, 3.50 is added (irrespective of number of persons). This service is handy if it is past the regular tram/bus/metro service hours (approximately half past midnight). They take reservations 24 hr /day 0900 99 333 99 and there is a fee of 0.55 per call. Architecture Amsterdam has one of the largest historic city centres in Europe, with about 7,000 registered historic buildings. The street pattern has been largely unchanged since the 19th century there was no major bombing during World War II. The center consists of 90 islands linked by 400 bridges, some of them beautifully lit at night. The inner part of the city centre, the Old Centre, dates from medieval times. The oldest streets are the Warmoesstraat and the Zeedijk located in the Nieuwmarkt area of the Old Centre. As buildings were made of wood in the Middle Ages, not much of this period8217s buildings have survived. Two medieval wooden houses did survive though, at Begijnhof 34 and Zeedijk 1. Other old houses are Warmoesstraat 83 (built around 1400), Warmoesstraat 5 (around 1500) and Begijnhof 2-3 (around 1425). The Begijnhof is a late-medieval enclosed courtyard with the houses of beguines, Roman Catholic women living in a semi-religious community. Beguines are found in Northern France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and north-western Germany. House number 34 at the Begijnhof is the oldest home in Amsterdam. Entry to the courtyard and surrounding gardens is free, but be careful not to disturb the local community still living here. One of the most prominent features is the Canal Ring, a concentric ring of canals built in the 17th century. The merchant-based oligarchy that ruled the trading city of Amsterdam built canal houses and mansions in the most prestigious locations here, especially along the main canals. Typical for the country are its traditional white draw bridges. The best example has to be the Magere Brug in the Canal Ring, which is over 300 years old and nearly in its original capacity. It is a beautiful place to overlook the river and take in some traditional Dutch architecture. The Jordaan was built around 1650 along with the Canal Ring, but not for the wealthy merchants. For a long time it was considered the typical working-class area of Amsterdam, and included some notorious slums. The name probably derives from the nickname 8216Jordan8217 for the Prinsengracht. Apart from a few wider canals, the streets are narrow, in an incomplete grid pattern (as the grid followed the lines of the former polders located here in medieval times). This district is the best example of 8220gentrification8221 in the Netherlands, as recently it turned into a hip boutique district. There are several large warehouses for more specific uses. The biggest is the Admirality Arsenal (1656-1657), now the Maritime Museum (Scheepvaartmuseum) at Kattenburgerplein. Others include the former turf warehouses (1550) along the Nes, now the municipal pawn office a similar warehouse at Waterlooplein 69-75 (Arsenaal, 1610), now an architectural academy, and the warehouse of the West India Company (1642) at the corner of Prins Hendrikkade and 8216s-Gravenhekje. The city office for architectural heritage BMA has an excellent online introduction to the architectural history and the types of historical buildings available. The website includes a cycle route along important examples. Modern architecture is under-represented in Amsterdam (as opposed to Rotterdam), but as the outer districts were built in the 19th and 20th centuries, there is definitely some to be found. Immediately outside the Singelgracht (the former city moat) is a ring of 19th-century housing. The most prominent buildings from this period are the Central Station (1889) and the Rijksmuseum (1885), both by P. J. H. Cuypers. Amsterdam West, especially the neighborhood De Baarsjes, was built in the Amsterdam School and New Objectivity architectural styles from the 19th century. A completely different approach to architecture has been the Bijlmer, built in the 1970s and forseen as a town of the future for upper-middle class families. Large apartment buildings and relatively large rooms were combined with common grass fields and a separation of pedestrian and car traffic. It has been a revolutionary way of thinking in the architectural world, but eventually the neighborhood turned into a lower-class residential district home to people of over 150 nationalities, and it is often associated with crime and robberies. It has improved remarkably the last years though, and adventurous travelers might be interested to know more about the history of this bizarre district. Churches amp Synagogues Since the Middle Ages and throughout the 17th century, the Netherlands was a country with a relatively high degree of freedom and tolerance towards other religions and cultures, especially compared to other countries in Europe. Between 1590 and 1800, the estimated foreign-born population was never less than 5 percent, many of them settling in Amsterdam. This led to a large diaspora of Jews, Huguenots (French protestants), Flemish, Poles and other peoples in the city. Especially the Jewish have always had a large presence in Amsterdam, notably in the Old Jewish Quarter (though this quarter has been in a status of decay since World War II). The most prominent synagogue is The Esnoga (or The Portuguese Synagogue). built in 1675 in an austere Classicist style. As the Dutch were a protestant nation, most of the churches are from this branch of Christianity. Some of the most notable churches: Oude Kerk (1306) Located on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, in the red-light district. The oldest of the five main churches in the historic centre. You can climb the tower from April to September on Saturday amp Sunday, every half-hour. Also open in the winter by group appointment (maximum 10 people) cost 70 per hour. (mailto:annabuscher-malocca. nl) for more information. Nieuwe Kerk (15th century) Located on Dam Square. Used for royal coronations, most recently the crowning of Queen Beatrix in 1980, and royal weddings, most recently the wedding of crown prince Willem-Alexander to princess Mxima in 2002. Today, the church is no longer used for services but is now a popular exhibition space. Zuiderkerk (built 1603-1611) Located on Zuiderkerkhof (8220Southern Graveyard8221) square. Now an information centre on housing and planning. You can visit the tower from April to September Monday to Saturday (with guide only) every half-hour, cost 6. Also open in the winter by group appointment (maximum 15 people) cost 70 per hr. (mailto:annabuscher-malocca. nl) for more information. Noorderkerk (built 1620-1623) Located on Noordermarkt on the Prinsengracht. Westerkerk (built 1620-1631) Located on Westermarkt near the Anne Frank House. The church is open (free) for visitors from Monday to Friday, 11AM-3PM, from April to September. You can also climb the tower (with guide only) every half-hour, Mon to Saturday 6. The tower is also open in the winter by group appointment (maximum 10 people) cost 70 per hr. (mailto:annabuscher-malocca. nl) for more information. In good weather you can see all of Amsterdam, and as far as the coast. The late-medieval city also had smaller chapels such as the Sint Olofskapel (circa 1440) on Zeedijk, and convent chapels such as the Agnietenkapel on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal 231 (originally 1470), now the University of Amsterdam museum. Later churches included the Oosterkerk (1669) in the eastern islands, and the heavily restored Lutheran Church on the Singel (1671), now used by a hotel as a conference centre. Catholic churches were long forbidden, and built again only in the 19th-century: the most prominent is the Neo-Baroque Church of St. Nicholas (1887) opposite Central Station. Also, investigate some of the 8220hidden churches8221 found in Amsterdam, mainly Catholic churches that remained in activity following the Reformation. A prominent hidden church is Amstelkring Museum (Our Lord in the Attic Chapel) Well worth the visit. Modern architecture Since there was little large-scale demolition in the historic centre, most 20th-century and recent architecture is outside it. The most prominent in architectural history are the residential complexes by architects of the Amsterdam School, for instance at Zaanstraat / Oostzaanstraat. Museum of the Amsterdam School. The best-known example of their architecture. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11AM to 5PM, entrance 7.50, includes 20 min. guided tour. Eastern Docklands. The largest concentration of new residential buildings. The zone includes three artificial islands: Borneo, Sporenburg, and KNSM/Java-island. The latter has been built as a postmodern interpretation of the old canal belt. Across from it, is the brand new Piet Heinkade, and some adjoining projects. Accessible by tram 10, tram 26 to Rietlandpark, or best of all by bicycle. The largest concentration of box-like office buildings is in Amsterdam Zuid-Oost (South-East) around Bijlmer station (train and metro), but the area does have some spectacular buildings, such as the Amsterdam ArenA stadium and the new Bijlmer ArenA station. Amsterdam is replacing older sewage plants by a single modern plant, in the port zone. Connecting existing sewers to the new plant requires long main sewers, and the use of sewage booster pumps 8211 a new technique at this scale. The new booster pump stations are a unique type of building, designed by separate architects. The three complete pumps are located at Klaprozenweg in the north, on Spaklerweg (just east of the A10 motorway), and beside and under Postjesweg, in the Rembrandtpark. Windmills Windmills were not built in urban areas, since the buildings obstructed the wind. The Amsterdam windmills were all originally outside its city walls. There are a total of eight windmills in Amsterdam, and most of them are in Amsterdam West. However, the best one to visit might De Gooyer, which is not far from the city centre, and is being used as a brewery for you to enjoy. The only windmill fully open to the public is the Molen van Sloten in Sloten, a former village now part of West. Museums Amsterdam has an amazing collection of museums, ranging from masterpieces of art to porn, vodka and cannabis. The most popular ones can get very crowded in the summer peak season, so it8217s worth exploring advance tickets or getting there off-peak (eg. very early in the morning). Some of the quality museums that you can8217t miss: Anne Frank House dedicated to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who kept a diary while hiding from Nazi persecution in hidden rooms at the rear of the building (known as the Achterhuis). It8217s an exhibition on the life of Anne Frank, but also highlights other forms of persecution and discrimination. Rijksmuseum absolutely top-class museum that has a large collection of paintings from the Dutch Golden Age. Some artists you can8217t overlook are Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals and Jan Steen. The must-sees are Rembrandt8217s Night Watch and Vermeer8217s Milkmaid. The museum also boasts a substantial collection of Asian art. The Rijksmuseum is under heavy construction until at least late 2012. Until then, there is a limited collection on display called 8216the Masterpieces8217, showing all the highlights that are absolutely worth a visit. Van Gogh Museum even someone with little knowledge of art must have heard about Vincent van Gogh, the Dutch Post-Impressionist painter whose work had a far-reaching influence on 20th century art for its vivid colors and emotional impact. This museum has the largest collection of Van Gogh8217s paintings and drawings in the world. The other museums are described in the district articles. The Museum Card (Museum Jaarkaart) costs 39.95 (or 22.45 for those under 18 years old). It covers the cost of admission to over 400 museums across the Netherlands and you can buy it at most major museums. It is valid for an entire year, and you will need to write your name, birthday, and gender on it. If you are going to the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, those are at least 10 each, so this card can quickly pay for itself. The tickets to the major museums, including the audio guide, can be bought early from the tourist information desk at no extra cost. Alternatively, for short stays, you can consider buying the I amsterdam card. starting at 38 per day, which includes 8220free8221 access to Amsterdam museums, public transport and discount on many tourist attractions. Zoo and botanical garden For Artis Zoo and botanical gardens, head for Plantage. Attractions and tours The Heineken Experience. Former Heineken Brewery. Stadhouderskade 78. Do not expect a beer museum but rather to be flooded with Heineken advertisements. M-Su 11AM-7PM, last entry 5:30PM Vodka Museum Amsterdam. The Vodka Museum Amsterdam is located in an old townhouse on Damrak 33, the main entrance of the city. The small, and modern museum is also a party and events venue. During a visit to the Vodka Museum you will receive a personal guide who will walk you through the 3-story museum. The museum tells the story of the history of vodka, the production process and the different types of vodka. At the end you get to drink some. The Amsterdam Dungeon is a horror tour through several dark chambers with live actors. It ends with a roller coaster raging through a real 13th century church. Organised city tours. Several operators offer tours, visits to diamond factories, other guided visits, and canal cruises. Unless you really need a guide 8211 for instance if you speak only Chinese 8211 it is cheaper to visit everything yourself. Homomonument Is a memorial to gays and lesbians murdered in the Second World War, a call for vigilance against homophobia, and an inspiration for gays and lesbians the world over. Three equilateral triangles made of pink granite that are connected by an inlaid band of pink bricks. These three triangles represent the past, present and future. It is located between the Westerkerk and the Keizersgracht canal World of AJAX AJAX offers multiple daily tours through the ArenA stadium and the 8216world of AJAX8217. See their website for more information, no reservation applicable. City beaches Amsterdam has three trendy city beaches: Blijburg (take tram 26 to 8216IJburg8217) Strand West (take bus 22 or 48 to 8216Spaaarndammerstraat8217) Strand Zuid (take tram 4 to 8216Europaplein8217 or metro 51 to station RAI) Red Light District The Red Light District consists of several canals, and the side streets between them, south of Central Station and east of Damrak. Known as 8216De Wallen8217 (the quays) in Dutch, because the canals were once part of the city defences (walls and moats). Prostitution itself is limited to certain streets, mainly side streets and alleys, but the district is considered to include the canals, and some adjoining streets (such as Warmoesstraat and Zeedijk). The whole area has a heavy police presence, and many security cameras. Nevertheless it is still a residential district and has many bars and restaurants, and also includes historic buildings and museums 8211 this is the oldest part of the city. The oldest church in Amsterdam, the Netherlands-gothic Oude Kerk on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal at Oudekerksplein, is now surrounded by window prostitution. The area has many sex shops and peep show bars. Note: Don8217t try to take photos of prostitutes even from the streets, or you might lose your camera without any warning. This section of town is a common attraction for bachelors celebrating a stag night, if you ever get hassled, a firm and loud 8220Leave me alone8221 will work most of the time. Entering and exiting the premises is half of the job that might take some strength for first timers as you might hear some chuckles from people you8217ll never see again in your whole life. This part of town gets very crowded, especially on a normal weekend night, sometimes up until 3AM. A fifty euro bill will get you either oral sex or a girl laying on her back, the rest is up to you. Although every room is booked by the girl herself, some of the sex workers are still being pimped by outsiders. You can book a tour of the Red Light District via the I amsterdam information booths. The tour starts at 5PM at the VOC Cafe and is found to be very informative and entertaining. Do Several companies offer canal cruises, usually lasting from one to two hours. Departures from: Prins Hendrikkade opposite Centraal Station quayside Damrak Rokin near Spui Stadhouderskade 25 near Leidseplein. The Canal Bus. Runs three fixed routes, stopping near major attractions (Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank8217s House, etc.). You can get on or off as often as you like, but it is expensive, 20 per person per 24 hr. The first boats start between 9.15AM. and 10.45PM. depending on which stop you get on. The last boats start dropping off at around 7 p. m. Lovers Canal Cruise start opposite the Rijksmuseum. It is 12 per person, but you cannot get on and off. The cruise is about 1 hr 30 min. Amsterdam Boat Guide Local company offering private boat tours in classic boats. Canal cruises, dinner cruises etc. Amsterdam Jewel Cruises offers an evening dinner cruise. It is the only classic boat offering a private table for a romantic dinner cruise. A la carte dining, but not cheap The cruise starts at 7.30 pm and lasts just under three hours. You can cruise the canals yourself, without the commentary with a canal bike (pedal boat) or rented boat. Boaty Rental Boats. Boaty offers rental boats (max. 6 persons) for your own private tour: decide where to go yourself or choose one of Boaty8217s free canal routes. These rental boats are electrically driven which means they are silent and free of exhaust fumes. They are charged with renewable energy every night so you can enjoy your time on the water as long as you like. The boats are very stable, unsinkable and of course the rental is accompanied by free life vests in different sizes. Canal Company. Has four rental locations two-seater canal bikes cost 8 per person per hour. Rent a boat Amsterdam . Venetian Gondola. You can also rent a gondola, hand made by an Amsterdam girl who traveled to Venice to learn the craft and build her own Gondola which she brought back to Amsterdam. Watch a movie at one of the over 55 cinemas. The Tuschinski theater is worth a visit if only for it8217s Jugendstil interior. With the exception of some animated movies (and even those are usually available in the original language as well), all movies are subtitled and not dubbed, so you should be able to enjoy all the standard Hollywood fare in the original English. Rialto Cinema. For all arthouse cinema freaks. All films are shown in their original language with Dutch subtitles. They have late night and classic showings too. Just a short walk from the Albert Cuyp-Market/Heineken Brouwery, in a nice non-touristy neighbourhood. MEETin Amsterdam. A not-for-profit social group to help expats meet new people away from the bar and dating scene. The site8217s primary focus is to provide a relaxed, 8216non-pickup-scene8217 social environment for people to enjoy without paying membership fees. For people who have either just moved to Amsterdam or lived there for a while, this group can be a great way to meet new people in the area. Events are arranged by MEETin members and include a variety of activities such as pub crawls, potlucks, movies, concerts, day trips and much more. You have to register and create a profile in order to participate. The group consists mostly of expats from around the world and has grown to more than 1,400 members (January 2008). The site is financed through voluntary donations. Boom Chicago. Amsterdam comedy institution since 1993. English language sketch and improv comedy show with extensive use of video, music and the internet. The troupe is sharp and skewers current events, trends and life and local events in Amsterdam. Perhaps the best comedy show in any city. Good food is served before the show and drink service continues all night CityNavigators. Offers handheld GPS tourist maps for rent through participating hotels or online. The GPS devices are pre-programmed to take you to popular attractions or to guide you through walking (or bicycle) tours. (mailto:infocitynavigators) for more information. Play Futsal. Football tour organisers Eurofives stage special tournament weekends in Amsterdam at which you can enjoy some Dutch-style five-a-sides. De Poezenboot. You really like cats The poezenboot (cat boat) is an refuge for cats awaiting adoption. Located in the centre of the city, a must for any cat lover. Wynand Fockink. Pijlsteeg 31 8211 1012 HH Amsterdam 31 20 639 26 95 (mailto:contactwynand-fockink. nl) Wynand Fockink is a distillery started in 1679. Right near Dam Place, they offer distillery tours (must reserve at least a week in advance as they fill up quickly), great liquors, and a great time in the back alleys of Amsterdam. They have numerous liquors, brandies, and jenevers and encourage you to try them all. It is traditional to stoop and sip the first drink and not spill. Several companies offer private tours by car, van, or mini bus for groups of up to 8 people. Bike tours are also available at a more affordable price, and offer a more authentic dutch experience. Flossy Inc. Leidseplein (Leidseplein 12 Meet point) 31(0)614990228, (flossyinc/) Price: From 30Euro Amsterdam for free A day in Amsterdam without spending a penny: stroll along the canals, see the Begijnhof, smell the flowers at the Bloemenmarket, visit the Albert Cuypstraat market, see the Magere Brug and relax in the Vondelpark. Brewerij 8216t Ij offers a free guided tour through the brewery and beer museum at Fridays and Sundays. Diamond factories in Amsterdam offer free guided tours, such as at and . Ferry over the River IJ The GVB ferries that run on the north side of central station are free of charge and provide nice views of the harbor and skyline, as described above. Free lunch concerts are held at the: Concertgebouw Holds a free classical concert every Wednesday at 1230. This theatre is located near Museumplein and worth a visit if only for it8217s architecture. Het muziektheater Holds a free lunch concert at Tuesdays. MuziekGebouw aan8217t Ij This is a theatre on the Ij waterfront (not far from central station) with striking modern design. It holds a free lunchtime concert once a month (on a Tuesday at 12:30PM) to showcase young classical music talent. Westerkerk Church at Prinsengracht 281 (near the Anne Frank House) which holds free organ concerts every Friday at 1PM. Friday night skate Put on your skates, and join the popular weekly skate tour (since 1997), a different route every week. Guided tours: offers multiple free guided tours in the city centre. Additionally, the offers some paid and some free self-guided walking tours, and GVB (the public transport company) offers some entertaining downloadable podcast tours . Hollandsche Schouwburg Striking building on Plantage Middenlaan (number 24) which used to be a theatre between 1892 and 1942. During WW2 it was used as a deportation centre for Jews. It is now a war memorial 8211 the upper floor houses an exhibition on the persecution of the Jews in Netherlands. Entrance is free, open daily 11AM-4PM. NEMO Panorama terrace In the summer months the Nemo Science museum has a panorama terrace on its roof with deckchairs. Access is free 8211 you just need to climb up the steps. It8217s a good spot to lounge around and enjoy the view of the Museum Haven and surrounds. OBA Amsterdams Public Library 8211 A great place to hang out on a rainy day. Europes biggest public library has international newspapers and magazines to read, free internet terminals and a cafe / panorama terrace with fine views overlooking Amsterdam. Rijksmuseum garden a curious collection of architecture, free entrance during museum opening times. Stadsarchief The city archive at Vijzelstraat 32 is open to the public and often holds free exhibitions in its main hall. The building dates from the 1920s but was recently renovated 8211 have a look at the impressive glass roof. Open Tue-Fri 10AM-5PM, weekends 11AM-5PM. The Schuttersgallerij (Civic Guards Gallery) is a hidden passageway filled with 15 enormous 17th-century paintings entrance is free to the public during museum hours. Known as the Schuttersgalerij (Civic Guards8217 Gallery), the collection features massive and meticulously realistic portraits of wealthy citizens from the Dutch Golden Age, the same class of subjects Rembrandt depicted in the most famous of Civic Guard paintings, 8220Nightwatch8221. You can find it just inside the arched gateway to the Amsterdam Museum at Kalverstraat 92. Vondelpark open-air theatre Holds free concerts and performances at its open-air theatre podium. The program runs during the summer months (June to August) on Friday evenings, Saturdays and Sundays. Additionally, there are several other festivals in Amsterdam, many of them free, as listed below. Festivals Amsterdam is a cultural haven with year-round festivals for every pocket. February Chinese New Year: Festival through Zeedijk and China town. April Queensday April 30: The national holiday, nominally in celebration of the Queen8217s birthday (in fact the previous Queen8217s birthday) is hard to describe to anyone who8217s never been there. The city turns into one giant mass of orange-dressed people (all Amsterdam locals, and another 1 million or so from throughout the country visit the parties in the city) with flea markets, bands playing, and many on-street parties, ranging from small cafes placing a few kegs of beer outside to huge open-air stages hosting world-famous DJ8217s. The Vondelpark is the place for children selling and performing. An experience you8217ll never forget. Normally held on April 30th, but if that is a Sunday, it is celebrated one day earlier (to avoid offence to orthodox Protestants). May Art Amsterdam: a modern art fair in the RAI exhibition and conference centre. If you want to know what the latest developments are in Dutch galleries, this is where to find them all in one place. June Holland Festival: famous around the world, this Netherlands performing arts festival brings events from all over the world on the fields of music, opera, theatre and dance. Taste of Amsterdam: A culinary festival where you can explore the food of famous Amsterdam restaurants and their chefs. The Open Garden Days: Normally you can see only the front of the canal houses, but during the Open Garden Days you get to go past the entrance and see the green world behind them, many times bigger than you would have expected. You can buy one ticket that gives you entry to all participating gardens, and there is a special canal boat to take you from one location to another. Amsterdam Roots Festival: an open-air (free) festival with music from non-western countries accompanied by paid film and theatre performances in the surrounding area theaters. July Julidans (July Dance): International Contemporary Dance Festival, always showing the latest developments in modern dance. July/August Vondelpark Open Air Theater: This free festival offers many different performances every day. Go to the open air theatre just by the fountain and let the entertainment do the work. From cabaret to drama to concerts to dance, there is something here for everyone and of all ages. Amsterdam International Fashion Week: Twice a year, this event presents young and upcoming fashion in Europe and with a focus on Dutch design. Robeco Summer Concerts: affordable classical music concerts taking place at the prestigious Amsterdam Concertgebouw. August De Parade: Martin Luther King Park. Circus turns vintage, on an old-fashioned fairground with many different tents, the performers are each trying to attract their public, featuring spectacles of dance, theatre, magic, art, animation and music. Canal Pride. Amsterdam gay pride on the first weekend in August. One of the biggest festivals in Amsterdam with parties, performances, workshops and a boat parade on the Prinsengracht on Saturday afternoon which is always well worth seeing. Prinsengracht concert: third weekend of August each year. A free open-air classical music concert is held every year on a stage in the middle of the Prinsengracht canal. If you have a little boat, join the crowds and make sure to bring your rose wine or prosecco for full enjoyment. Sail Amsterdam: tall-ships from all over the world come to visit the Amsterdam harbour every 5 years, the next time in 2015. Uitmarkt: The opening of the cultural season in the last weekend of August, it offers a taste of the year to come with 30 min performances at different theaters, an extensive book market and many open-air concerts. جميع مجانا. September Jordaan Festival: A big inner city street festival celebrating the diversity of this former working class district. Features can include drum bands, a children8217s festival, opera and cabaret, a boules competition, a flea market and an auction. Robodock arts festival: A unique festival presenting contemporary art shows in the huge, old NDSM shipyard depot, in the Amsterdam North. The atmosphere is rough, industrial, experimental. A lot of loud music, fire, smoke, noise and heavy machinery are usually elements of these performances. National Restaurant Week: Two times a year, participating restaurants offer a full 3 course dinner for a mere 25 (excl drinks), allowing you to experiment a different restaurant for a change or a chance to eat affordably at one of the famous 5-star restaurants. October Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE): Usually held during the second last weekend in October, this electronic music annual festival gathers cream of the crop faces from the house and techno scenes. Buy your tickets in advance to avoid paying more at the door and queueing for hours on. Besides partying for four nights in a row, the conference offers workshops, seminars, presentations etc. November Museum Night Museumnacht: Long before the film came out, this night at the museum attracts new crowds at the traditional Amsterdam museums with special performances at unusual locations. Do as the locals do and hire a bike to go from one place to the other. pAn Amsterdam Art and Antique Fair: Third week of November. The biggest national art and antiques fair in the Netherlands. IDFA 8211 International Documentary Filmfestival of Amsterdam: Leidseplein, (various times). International documentary festival screening some 200 documentary films and videos. Learn Amsterdam is home to two universities, both offer summer courses and other short courses (with academic credits). Vrije Universiteit (VU University). Founded in 1880, the VU campus is located southwest of the city centre, and approximately 20 minutes away by bicycle. It is the only Protestant general university in the Netherlands. Universiteit van Amsterdam. Founded as the Athenaeum Illustre in 1632, in 1877 it became the University of Amsterdam. With about 25,000 students, the UvA is on three separate campuses in the city centre, plus smaller sites scattered over Amsterdam. The Volksuniversiteit. Despite the name, it is not a university, but a venerable institute for public education. Among the many courses are Dutch language courses for foreigners. Work Many people plan to move to Amsterdam for a year to relax before 8220settling down8221. This plan often falls apart at the job phase. Many people will find it difficult to get a suitable job, if they do not speak Dutch. However, hostels and hotels in Amsterdam may need bar staff, night porters etc, who speak English and other languages. There are also specialist websites for English and non-Dutch speakers looking to work in Amsterdam and they are a often a good place to start Blue Lynx 8211 Employment by Language. Undutchables. Unique and Xpat Jobs are all useful resources. Immigration matters are dealt with by the Immigration Service IND. Registration is done by both police and municipalities. Immigration policy is restrictive and deliberately bureaucratic. That is especially true for non-EU citizens. European Union citizens do not require a work permit. Australians, New Zealanders and Canadians are afforded a one year working-holiday visa. In general the employer must apply for work permits. Immigration is easier for 8220knowledge migrants8221 earning a gross annual salary of over 45,000 (over 33,000 for those under 30). There are many flexible office solutions in Amsterdam that enable you to rent office space for a short term. See for example Regus or the Ph120 flexible office solutions at Prins Hendrikkade 120 Buy The main central shopping streets run in a line from near Central Station to the Leidseplein: Nieuwendijk, Kalverstraat, Heiligeweg, Leidsestraat. The emphasis is on clothes/fashion, but there are plenty of other shops. They are not upmarket shopping streets, and the north end of Nieuwendijk is seedy. Amsterdams only upmarket shopping street is the P. C. Hooftstraat (near the Rijksmuseum). Other concentrations of shops in the centre are Haarlemmerstraat / Haarlemmerdijk, Utrechtsestraat, Spiegelstraat (art/antiques), and around Nieuwmarkt. There is a concentration of Chinese shops at Zeedijk / Nieuwmarkt, but it is not a real Chinatown. The interesting little shops are located in the side streets of the main canals (Prinsengracht / Keizersgracht / Herengracht), and especially in the Jordaan 8211 bounded by Prinsengracht, Elandsgracht, Marnixstraat and Brouwersgracht. The partly gentrified neighbourhood of De Pijp 8211 around Ferdinand Bolstraat and Sarphatipark 8211 is often seen as a 8216second Jordaan8217. For general shop info and their openings hours you can visit 8216Openingstijden Amsterdam8217 it shows an overview of the most popular shops and their location on the map. The Nine Streets, (De Negen Straatjes), ). Nine narrow streets enclosed between the main canals from the Prinsengracht to the Singel, south-west of Dam Square. The northernmost street is Reestraat and to the south is the Runstraat. The streetnames are marked with a sign of the Nine Streets, and some shops have a flyer of this area. You can find a lot of boutiques, specialist shops, galleries and restaurants here. Santa Jet, Prinsenstraat 7, 31 20 427 2070. This little boutique specializes in hand-made imports from Latin America. You can find everything from mini shrines made of tin, to lamps, to kitschy postcards. De Beeldenwinkel Sculpture Gallery. This is a gallery for sculpture lovers, with bronze statues, pottery, abstract sculpture, raku-fired statues and marble figures sculpture to suit every budget and taste. Jordaan. One of the most picturesque 8216village8217 areas of Amsterdam, the Jordaan has always been a centre for artisans, artists and creatives, today, this area has a wonderful selection of goldsmiths and jewellers, fashion boutiques, galleries, designer florists, and specialist shops. Fashion amp Museum District. Located in Amsterdam Zuid, this is considered the chic area for shopping in Amsterdam, close to the Museum district, the PC Hooftstraat and the Cornelis Schuytstraat have some of the finest designer shops in the city, including designer shoes, health and well-being specialists, massage, fashion boutiques, designer interiors, designer florists and specialist shops. In the older areas surrounding the centre, the main shopping streets are the Kinkerstraat, the Ferdinand Bolstraat, the Van Woustraat, and the Javastraat. The most 8216ethnic8217 shopping street in Amsterdam is the Javastraat. There are toy stores and clothing shops for kids in the centre, but most are in the shopping streets further out, because that8217s where families with children live. You can find plus size clothing in the centre of Amsterdam. CampA, and HampM are both on the main shopping streets from the Central station. A bit further from the city centre you can find Mateloos, Promiss, Ulla Popken as well as several stores by chain MampS mode. A give-away shop can be found at Singel 267, open Tuesdays and Thursdays 5PM-17PM and Saturdays 12 noon-5PM. For books, your best bet is The Book Exchange at Kloveniersburgwal 58. 31 20 6266 266), diagonally across from the youth hostel. It is a second-hand bookstore specialising in English books, and has a large selection, with an especially good selection of travel writing, detectives, and SF/fantasy. Open Mon - Sun 10AM - 4PM, Sun 11:30-4:30PM. For English literature and books, you can also try The American Book Centre store on Spui square. Waterstone8217s (Kalverstraat 152) is also a good tip for English literature. Large Dutch bookstores also carry a selection of foreign language books. Cracked Kettle. Located at Raamsteeg 3, 1012VZ Amsterdam, this beer, wine, and spirits shop carries independent, unique, and rare bottles. The staff are friendly, but the space is quite confined and obtaining bottles from the very top shelves requires assistance and a dust rag. 12 noon-10PM everyday Street markets Street markets originally sold mainly food, and most still sell food and clothing, but they have become more specialised. A complete list of Amsterdam markets (with opening times and the number of stalls) can be found at online at Hollandse Markten and Amsterdam. info in English. Ten Cate Market. 3rd Largest in Amsterdam. Monday to Saturday from about 8AM until around 5PM. Food, households, flowers and clothing. Albert Cuyp. Largest in Amsterdam, best-known street market in the country. Can get very crowded, so watch out for pickpockets. Monday to Saturday from about 9AM until around 5PM. Dappermarkt. In the east, behind the zoo, and was voted best market in the Netherlands. Monday to Saturday from about 8AM until around 5PM. Waterlooplein. Well-known but overrated flea market. Monday to Saturday until about 5PM. Lindengracht. In the Jordaan, selling a wide range of goods, fruit and vegetables, fish and various household items. Saturday only. 9AM to 4PM. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein, and a short walk along the Lijnbaansgracht. Spui. Fridays: Books. Sundays: Art and Antiques. Bloemenmarkt. Floating flower market, open daily on the Singel canal, near Muntplein. Very touristy, but you could do worse than buy your tulips here. Make sure you buy pre-approved bulbs if taking them to the US or Canada. They will have the holographic licence and export tag on the bag. Lapjesmarkt. Westerstraat, in the Jordaan. A specialist market concentrating on selling cloth and material for making clothes, curtains etc. Mondays only. 9AM to 1PM. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein. Noordermarkt. In the historical Jordaan area of the city. On Monday morning (9AM to 1PM) the Noordermarkt is a flea market selling fabrics, records, second-hand clothing etc, and forms part of the Lapjesmarkt mentioned above. On Saturday (9AM to 4PM), the Noordermarkt is a biological food market, selling a wide range of ecological products like organic fruits and vegetables, herbs, cheese, mushrooms etc, there is also a small flea market. Tram 3 or 10 to Marnixplein, and a short walk down the Westerstraat. Eat Smoking is banned in all Dutch bars and restaurants, although many bars and cafes have sealed smoking rooms (rookkamer) in which smoking is permitted. Places to eat There is a large diversity of restaurants in Amsterdam, especially if you are looking for Asian cuisine, although much of it is tailored to the fairly bland local tastes and might not have the fire you would expect. The influence of the Dutch colonial past is apparent, as can be seen in the wide array of Indonesian restaurants. Nieuwmarkt Most Asian restaurants are clustered at the Zeedijk in Nieuwmarkt, for this reason often dubbed as Amsterdam8217s Chinatown. It8217s also home to many tokos, small Asian grocery stores that sell Eastern food and spices. Indonesian restaurants are usually of excellent quality, but Indian ones can be expensive. Chinatown also offers plenty of Chinese, Thai and Japanese restaurants. Damstraat Is a fairly busy road filled with small and cheap Chinese and Middle Eastern restaurants 8211 expect sticky tables, but it8217s definitely a good place for budget travelers. The numerous falafel bars have a good value, often sporting a 8220all you can pile8221 salad bar. Nieuwezijdse kolk This street goes from the dam square to the central station. It has multiple narrow streets crossing it and in the Nieuwendijk street you can find the best icecream of Amsterdam. There are two shops: One is called 8216Zomer ijs en winter kost(summer ice and winterfood) and is located on number 6. They have all the flavors you can think of and even make a flavor on demand, but you have to tell the owner 1 or 2 days in advance. All the ice is homemade with natural ingredients and he asks a very reasonable price. In the winter he serves tipical dutch winterfood, like mashed potatoes with cabbage and sausage. The other is called Bakkerij van der Linde. Its officially a bakary, but they dont sell bread, but amsterdams most famous whipped cream ice, lovely almond cookies and cakes. Like my friend always says, this ice is sinfull. The tecture is really creamy and soft, it melts easy and they put it in a cone with a soup spoon. A small icecream costs 1 euro, a big one 2. Surinamese food is widely available and worth a try. The highest concentration of Surinamese restaurants can be found in the South, especially in the Albert Cuypstraat. A good example cam be found in Surinaams-Chinees Afhaalcentrum Albina at Albert Cuypstraat 69. Its cheap (around 6 euros), and very good. If you arrive around dinnertime you probably have to wait for a table. The surroundings are depressing but the food is so good you will come back anyway. Locals recommend the roti with bone, the moksi meti, petjil and Bojo as dessert. Try the Dawet as well this tipical drink is made from milk, coconut milk and rose sirup and has sago balls in it. Most kids like it. Eetcafe8217s are pubs serve evening and night time meals. Many restaurants of all kinds can be found in the Haarlemmer Neighborhood (north of Jordaan), and in the narrow streets crossing the two. Also worth trying is the Van Woustraat in the Pijp, or continue to the Rijnstraat in the Rivierenbuurt. Exquisite but expensive restaurants can be found in the Utrechtse Straat. Local specialties Local cheese Buy some at the Albert Cuyp market, or at specialist cheese shops found around central Amsterdam. Dutch cheese is traditionally firm, and is made in large wax-covered wheels, and falls into two main categories 8211 Young and Old. Within those categories, there exists a rich variety. Among the more unusual young cheeses is cumin (Komijn) cheese, which is particular to the Netherlands. Sheep (Schapen) and goat (Geiten) cheeses are also common. Old (Oud) cheese can be made of any sort of milk, and is often reminiscent of Italian parmesan in consistency and sharpness of flavour. Don8217t forget to taste the main culinary contribution of the Amsterdammers to the world: Heineken it tastes no better here. Try some of the other excellent beers you can get from this part of the world such as 8220witbeer8221 (white beer). Also check out bitterballen, a kind of fried meatball, and the kroketten (the same, but shaped like a cylinder). Last but not least, don8217t forget to try a traditional herring or a broodje haring (herring sandwich), available from fish stalls around the city. Herring in Amsterdam is usually with served onions and pickles. A good try is the fish stand on the Koningsplein near the Flower Market. If you8217re visiting in late November or December, you can enjoy oliebollen, which are round blobs of sweet fried dough embedded with raisins (sultanas) and dusted with powdered sugar. Vlaamse Frite These large Belgian fries are served with mayonnaise. (Courtesy of globalvoyages. blogspot/) Places to avoid Avoid at all costs any steak house or fast food shop in the centre 8211 they are well known tourist traps. Budget For food during the day, the Albert Heijn supermarkets (largest national chain) usually have cheap ready-to-go meals on hand, from pre-packaged sandwiches and salads to microwavable single-serving meals. There is one right behind the Royal Palace on Dam Square, on the Nieuwmarkt, on Koningsplein and in the Vijzelstraat. For budget meal, check out also the various Falafel and Shoarma restaurents around the Damstraat and Muntplein. They usually include in the dish a large amount of salad. Lange Leidsedwarsstraat (just off Leidseplein) has about five Italian restaurants that sell pasta or pizza for 5. Drink Amsterdam8217s famously wild nightlife caters to all tastes and budgets. Bars and pubs The archetypical Amsterdam watering hole is the bruine (8220brown bar8221 or 8220brown caf8221), a neighborhood pub of sorts with gorgeous dark wood panelling hence the name and booths. These do not sell cannabis, see coffeeshops below for that. Popular entertainment areas with lots of bars are the Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. Nightclubs The nightclubs in Amsterdam are not as rough as one might think. Many nightclubs are grouped at Leiden Square and Rembrandt Square in the Canal Ring. As these two squares are also the typical tourist traps of Amsterdam, prices are relatively high and there are lots of scams. You can8217t go wrong at Melkweg and Paradiso, two live music venues that usually have a large queue in weekends. Paradiso has the best interior, as it used to be a church, while Melkweg feels more like a nightclub. Jimmy Woo is an impressive VIP-room, but their dress code is very strict. There are also some nightclubs in Eastern Amsterdam (notably Panama) and near Westerpark. Amsterdam8217s gay nightlife is not what it used to be, but there is still an active community at the Reguliersdwarsstraat in the Canal Ring. The annual gay pride in August is a fun event that can be attended by gays and straights alike. Coffeeshops Amsterdam is renowned for its liberal drug policy. Coffeeshops, not to be confused with coffeehouses or cafes, are allowed to sell cannabis and hash for personal use (not more than 5 grams). While technically still illegal, mostly to comply to international treaties, personal use of (soft) drugs are regulated by the Ministry of Justice under an official policy of gedogen literally this means to accept or tolerate, legally it is a doctrine of non-prosecution on the basis that action taken would be so highly irregular as to constitute selective prosecution. The city council of Amsterdam allows coffeeshops to operate only with the provision of set, non-transferable licenses as shown by an official green and white sticker on the window of a coffeeshop. Coffeeshops are to sell only soft drugs (such as cannabis), selling of other drugs is not allowed. Also selling of dried hallucinogenic mushrooms is not allowed. That said, drug usage is increasingly being strictly controlled by the Dutch government. Garish advertising is not allowed (look for red-yellow-green rasta colors and the English word 8220coffeeshop8221) no alcohol or edible cannabis products may be sold inside a coffeeshop customers who want to smoke their weed mixed with tobacco are limited to special sealed 8216smoking areas the amount of coffeeshops has decreased significantly since 1995 coffeeshops within a 8216250 meter school zone8217 have been closed down and the usage of magic mushrooms has been forbidden since December 2008 (after two fatal incidents with foreign tourists). Still there are about 250 coffeeshops in Amsterdam, most of them in the Old Centre. Prices hover around 7.50 for 1 gram, with the average joint holding around 0.33g and a 5g/person sales limit. Most coffeeshops are happy to recommend varieties and prepare your joint for you. Some offer vaporizers/inhalators for people who don8217t want to smoke. Using (soft) drugs is not allowed in public places, though in reality it will never be an issue. Just stay away from children8217s playgrounds and schools. Many coffeeshops offer a 8216smoking lounge8217 where soft drugs may be used. Also note that despite the confusion on the subject, the Netherlands-wide smoking ban applies only to tobacco. However, since the Dutch commonly smoke tobacco mixed with their marijuana or hash, many coffeeshops, especially those unaccustomed to tourists, may require all smoking to be done in a separated smoking section or outdoors (this is far more common in coffeeshops outside of Amsterdam). Most central coffeeshops with large tourist clienteles will allow marijuana or hash smoking in their entire space, requiring you to smoke in the separated section only if your joint contains tobacco. Many coffeeshops also provide a non-tobacco herbal filler for those who find pure joints too strong. You may usually smoke joints containing this herbal filler anywhere within the coffeeshop although individual house rules may vary. If in doubt, always ask the staff. Bulldog. Chain of touristy coffeeshops. Grey Area. The Bluebird 8211 one of the best selections of pot in Amsterdam. 82218217De Kuil (420 Cafe) Global Chillage 8211 Good produce and nice tunes but uncomfortable seating. Barney8217s. Multiple Cannabis Cup winner. Rokerij. Four coffeeshops. Kadinsky Hill Street Blues 8211 lively atmosphere but buy cannabis elsewhere. Club Media 8211 Completely organic menu, fair selection, good prices, lovely staff, free fruit Katsu 8211 Just around the corner from Media, good prices nice atmosphere. The Greenhouse 8211 usually pretty crowded but when warm or if you can get a seat definitely one of the nice coffeeshops near the red light. Also has a bar next door. De Dampkring 8211 three locations, bought out Pink Floyd and renovated it. Original shop featured in a scene in Ocean8217s 12. De Kroon. Abraxas. Homegrown Fantasy. The Jungle(Het Oerwoud) 8211 Good selection of pre-rolled joints sorted on strenght (from beginner to expert). Has two pool tables. The Otherside. 8211 Gay coffeeshop. Sleep Amsterdam has over 400 registered hotels of varying standards from budget facilities to some of the most expensive hotels in Europe. Advance booking is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Most hotels and hostels can be found in the Old Centre, notably south of central station, and in the South around the Museum Quarter. Charming boutique accommodation can be found in the wealthy residential Canal Ring, home to the rich and famous and its squares are the prime nightlife spots of the city. The Jordaan is another area for hip boutique accommodations, slightly upmarket, but still for mid-range prices. Some cheaper hostels can also be found in the Red Light District. A simple bed in a hostel starts around 15 on weekdays in the winter and up to 30 on a weekend in the summer. A twin room in a budget hotel, 1-2 stars, might cost around 40 on weekdays in the winter and up to 100 on summer weekends. In a three and four star hotel, the prices would range from 100 to 200, depending on season, and five stars hotels can cost between 150 and 400 a night. Do not expect a wide amount of services from cheaper end hostels and hotels. Most of these do not have elevators and have the usual steep staircases if you suffer from vertigo, do get an assurance that you will be getting a first or second floor room or book a hotel that has an elevator. The first internet cafes of the country opened in Amsterdam, but they vanished as quickly as they appeared. Only a few smaller internet cafes remain in the Old Centre. Outside of it, you might want to try your luck at one of the phone shops (belwinkel), which cater for immigrant communities in the Netherlands, but they usually have only one or two terminals. The Amsterdam Public Library (Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam) offers free internet access. It is limited to web-only access though and is located near the Central Station in the Old Centre. If you bring a laptop, many hotels in the city offer wifi free of charge for guests, but inform before making a booking. Don8217t count on this when staying at a hostel or cheaper end hotel. On the go, you can try some of the various coffee houses or fast food chains for wi-fi but nearly all of them charge for it. Telephone The telephone country code for the Netherlands is 31, and Amsterdam8217s city code is 020. You only need to dial the 0 if you8217re calling from within the Netherlands. Pay phones are increasingly rare as most Dutch people have a mobile phone. That8217s why pay phones mostly cater to tourists and can be found around tourist areas, such as the central station. If making local calls from a pay phone, you will need a phone card (5 minimum) as many green KPN telephone booths do not accept coins. blue/orange Telfort booths accept both coins and cards. The KPN booths are currently being replaced by newer models, which will accept coins again. There are very few public telephones on the streets or in public transport stations in the Netherlands. If you need to make a call and do not have access to a local phone or hotel phone, it is best to go to a call centre or use a calling service over the internet (like Skype, for example). Most payphones require phone cards which can be bought at post offices and some delis, although the cards are increasingly hard to find. Also, as in any area, some of the pay phones are scams. If you do need to use a payphone, call the free customer service number listed on the payphone first to make sure the phone is actually in service. When you call the customer service number listed on the phone, if you get a recorded message or 8216number not in service8217 message in Dutch or English, then DON8217T put your money or credit card into the phone. Phones run by BBG Communications, common in Europe and the U. S. have repeatedly been alleged to make fraudulent charges with credit cards used in their phone, for calls that were never made. There are phone shops (8216belwinkel8217) all over the city. Outside the city centre, they mostly serve immigrants calling their home country at cheap rates. If you have a simlock-free European GSM mobile phone (suitable for GSM 900/1800 networks), consider buying a prepaid simcard. You can buy these in any electronics store, and they are often the same price as buying a KPN phonebooth card. Calling then is a lot cheaper than using pay phones, and you are mobile. General You should take normal precautions against pickpockets and baggage theft, especially in the main shopping streets, in trams and trains, at stations, and anywhere where tourists congregate. Street begging is no longer common in Amsterdam, since the police take a harder line. Some beggars are addicts, some are homeless, and some are both. What looks like a footpath, especially along a canal bank, may be a bike lane. Bike lanes are normally marked by red/purple tiles or asphalt, and a bike icon on the ground. However, the colour fades over time, so you might miss the difference. Don8217t expect cyclists to be kind to pedestrians: some consider the side-walk an extension of the road, to be used when it suits them. Never stay or walk on the bike path or street for extended periods of time, as you will be greeted only by angry bell ringing. Keep in mind that for many Amsterdammers, the bike is their main means of transportation. For the bike theft problem see above, Get around. Watch out for trams when crossing the street. Taxis are also allowed to use some tram lanes, and even if not allowed, they often use them anyway. Groups of women visiting the Red Light District at night might feel harassed in the aggressive environment, though this is said to be the safest area because of the police presence. Keep to main streets and groups. Do not take photographs of the prostitutes. you will be yelled at or worse. Although not really dangerous, women especially might want to avoid the narrow lane north of the Oude Kerk (Old Church) after dark as the atmosphere can be quite intimidating. Neighborhoods Amsterdam is actually one of the safest cities in the world. International consultancy Mercer ranked Amsterdam 13 out of 215 world cities for personal safety in its 2010 Quality of Life Survey. Journeywoman calls Amsterdam 8216female-friendly8217 and recommends it as a city where women travelling alone should feel comfortable and safe. However, there are differences between the neighborhoods. While it8217s filled with all types of people during the day, the Red Light District does attract seedier visitors and vagrants after sunset. You may want to avoid walking alone here or in parks at night. The Bijlmer and Slotervaart in West still have a bad name regarding violence and harassment. With recent urban renewal projects, these neighborhoods have made significant progress in the last few years. The local authorities provide a brochure with tips, do8217s and don8217ts and other safety information. Cannabis and other drugs It cannot be denied that many tourists come to Amsterdam for the coffeeshops. Coffeeshops (in English but written as one word) sell only soft drugs such as marijuana and hash 8211 asking for other drugs is pointless because coffeeshops are watched closely by the authorities, and nothing will get them closed faster than having hard drugs for sale. 8216Caf8217 is the general name for a place licenced to sell alcohol: a bar. Since April 1, 2007, coffeeshops are no longer allowed to sell alcohol. Quality varies. Coffeeshops aimed at tourists are more likely to have overpriced and poor quality products. A simple rule of thumb is: if the place looks good and well-kept chances are their wares will be good as well. Don8217t just enter a coffeeshop being overwhelmed that it8217s possible at all to buy and consume cannabis openly: be discerning as to the quality. If you8217re not a smoker, and you really want to try it, start with something light, make sure you don8217t have an empty stomach, and don8217t combine it with any other drugs or intoxicants, including alcohol. Be forthright with the counter person about your inexperience, they see it all the time. Go with an experienced person if you can. Regardless of the strength, your first experience can be quite a sensation at first, but will quickly decrease in intensity. You may want to plan to return to your hotel and 8220hole up8221 for a couple hours until you become comfortable with the feeling. If you do find yourself too strongly under the influence 8211 feeling nauseated, woozey or faint 8211 drink orange juice or eat something sweet like cookies or candy, and get fresh air. Dutch-grown nederwiet (a. k.a. super skunk) is much stronger than you might expect, even if you are experienced. The THC level can be as high as 15, twice the norm (source: Trimbos Institute). There8217s a small chance you will be approached by people offering to sell you hard drugs in the street, especially as you are walking through the Red Light District. Ignoring or failing that a firm refusal is enough 8211 they will not pester you. The selling of drugs in the street is illegal and often dangerous moreover the drugs sold to strangers are usually fake. When they invite you to see the goods, they can lure you into a narrow street and rob you. So-called smartshops do not sell any illegal products, but a range of dietary supplements, including 8216herbal exstacy8217 8211 a legal attempt at an ecstasy pill alternative which is a complete waste of money and various more or less obscure psychedelic herbs and despite a change in the law, one type of magic mushrooms. It is the latter which causes problems as people often underestimate their strength. Magic mushrooms have few physical risks attached to them, but can have a very strong short-acting psychological effect, which can either be great or very distressing, depending on your own mindset (e. g. if you are relaxed, have any serious worries, history of mental illness, etc.) and your surroundings (e. g. if you feel comfortable and safe in them). The first time you try this should always be in a familiar and trusted environment, not on the streets of an unfamiliar city. If you do decide to try it please get informed first. Conscious Dreams. the company who invented the entire concept of a 8216smartshop8217 back in 1994 does this clearly (without downplaying the possible risks just to sell more like some other shops do) and responsibly. Also plan well ahead, make sure you have thought out where you will be, most recommended is going to a large park like the Vondelpark, the Rembrandtpark or the Amsterdamse Bos where it is quiet, and there is no risk from traffic. Make sure that being intoxicated will not endanger your safety, or that of anybody else. Be sure to make your purchase in the Smartshops rather than a regular coffeeshop. They are better regulated and information is available from the attendants that work there. They are also of better quality and stronger potency than at the coffeeshops. If you8217re not sure of how much to take, take a small dose. Then you8217ll know what your 8220tolerance8221 level is. People who have bad trips are those who take a dosage over their own tolerance level. Never take more than one packet of mushrooms 8211 usually half is good for your first time. A good smart shop can give you more info about this. Do keep in mind that all hemp related products (except the seeds) are still illegal. This can be confusing for most tourists, who do think hemp products are legal since they are sold in coffeeshops. Hemp products are not legal, rather they are 8220tolerated8221 under the Dutch Opium Act. Read more about the legalities in the article about the Netherlands. As of April 2009 you can still buy Magic mushrooms. Amsterdam plays host to the Cannabis Cup, the most important marijuana related event in the world every year during the week of Thanksgiving. The Cannabis Cup is organized by High Times magazine, and offers both tourists and natives the chance to enjoy 5 days of consuming and judging marijuana in different forms. Participants are eligible to pay 199 in advance or 250 at the door to obtain a 8220judges pass8221, which allows entry to the event for all 5 days, admission to numerous concerts and seminars held during the event, the ability to vote on numerous awards that are handed out, and free bus tours to and from the event. Day passes are available for 30 for each day, and certain concerts sell tickets at the door provided they are not already sold out. Publications Time Out Amsterdam. The monthly bible for what is going on in town. For purchase everywhere. Mijn NL. A free bi-weekly magazine which lists all events happening in Amsterdam. The section is divided into Music, Night(clubs, DJs), Gay, Comedy, Cabaret, Stage, Festival, Musical, Dance, Expositions, Children, and also Movie listings. It can be picked up at any Albert Heijn supermarket, and many venues. Covers more events than Uitkrant and Amsterdam Weekly. Although written in Dutch, it would be easy to understand the basic idea. Also provides suggestions on bars, restaurants, shops and hair dressers. Check out the online edition. UnderwaterAmsterdam. An online English-language guide to the Dutch capital which evolved from the free magazine Shark. It has an extraordinary number of daily events for English speakers music, parties, theatre, opera, queer etc plus annual events and upcoming gigs. It posts the latest gigs as they8217re announced by via Twitter. Written by an experienced travel writer, it also features a city guide with the best places to visit in town plus daily news and horoscopes (written by celebrity astrologer Bridgett Walther) . Uitkrant. A free monthly magazine, listing all concerts, classical, jazz, pop etc. exhibitions, museums and anything cultural to do in Amsterdam. It can be picked up at many spots in the city, e. g. at the Uitburo at the Leidseplein. Amsterdam Spoke. An English magazine featuring Amsterdams daily life, its ambiance and trends. Religious services Holy Mass in Catholic churches (Overview of cath. churches in Amsterdam (dutch): ): Begijnhofkapel (HH. Joannes en Ursula), Begijnhof 29. Sun: 10PM 11:15PM (in French) Mon-Fri: 9AM, 5PM Sat: 9AM. De Krijtberg (St. Franciscus Xaverius), Singel 448 (stop Koningsplein of trams 1, 2, 5). Sat: 12:30PM, 5:15PM Sun: 9:30AM 11:00AM (Latin), 12:30AM, 5:15PM Mon-Fri: 12:30PM, 5:15PM. Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk, Keizersgracht 220/218 B (stop Westermarkt of trams 6, 13, 14, 17 or busses 21, 170, 172). Sat: 7PM Sun: 11:15AM, 1:00PM (surinam.) Mon-Fri (chapel): 12:15PM, 7:30PM. Papegaai (HH. Petrus en Paulus), Kalverstraat 58 (by feet 20 min from central station). Sat: 5:30PM Sun: 10:30AM (Latin), 12:15PM (Latin) Mon-Sat: 10:30AM. Zusters van Moeder Teresa, Amsterdam-Badhoevedorp, Egelantierstraat 147 (city centre). Sun: 3:00PM Mon-Sat: 07:30AM. Vrouwe van alle volkeren, Diepenbrockstraat 3 (near to RAI congress centre), tel. (020)-6620504. Sun: 09:30AM, 11:15AM Mon-Sat: 12:15PM Tue: 7:15PM. Parish of the Blessed Trinity, Zaaiersweg 180, 1097 ST Amsterdam, Tel:020-4652711,020-7772740. Mass in English, Sunday 10:30 am and Noon. English Language Worship for Protestants: English Reformed Church, Begijnhof 48, 1012 WV Amsterdam, telephone 31(0)20 624 9665. Service at 10:30 Sundays. An English language Reformed Church led by a (Presbyterian) Church of Scotland minister. Old Catholic Church (a Dutch denomination in communion with the Church of England 8211 Anglican) Parochie van de H. H. Petrus en Paulus amp H. H. Johannes en Willibrordus, Ruysdaelstraat 39. Eucharist 10:00 Sundays (in Dutch) The older generation of Dutch people tends to be more religious. Get out Direct trains connect Amsterdam to Paris, to major Belgian cities like Brussels and Antwerp, and to German cities like Cologne, Frankfurt and Berlin. The ticket machines directly sell tickets to nearby destinations in Belgium and Germany, for longer journeys you will need to consult the international ticket office at the west end of the Central Station. CityNightLine trains run directly from Amsterdam Central Station to Milan, Vienna, Copenhagen, Prague, Warsaw, Moscow, Munich, Innsbruck, and Zurich (reservation compulsory). Almost any place in the Netherlands can be reached within 3 hr of rail travel. To make more sense, day trips can be divided into those close to the city (about 30 min by public transport) and those further afield. North Holland Alkmaar 8211 historic town with its cheese market Enkhuizen 8211 interesting small town with the Zuiderzee Museum, that shows how people used to live with the persistent danger of the sea Haarlem the closest of the historic cities, just 15 minutes from Amsterdam centre by train Muiden formerly a small port at the mouth of the Vecht river, it boasts the Muiderslot, the best-known castle of the country Naarden surrounded by a complete ring of 17th-century fortifications Hilversum affluent town known for its magnificent town hall, also offers cycling tours through forests and the heath Waterland and Zaan Region picturesque villages a short trip from the city Zaanse Schans historic windmills, tradesmen workshops and an open-air museum Zandvoort closest beach resort to Amsterdam Further destinations Delft well-known for its typical blue and white ceramics Gouda historic town famous for its Gouda cheese and the cheese market 8216s-Hertogenbosch typical city for the So uthern Netherlands, goes crazy during carnival Kinderdijk this authentic network of windmills shows the typical Dutch countryside at its best Leiden vibrant student town with the country8217s oldest university and several museums Keukenhof a seasonal attraction in the Spring, these enormous flower fields are popular among travellers Rotterdam has a history of rivalry with Amsterdam, and a completely different atmosphere with modern architecture The Hague (Den Haag) political heart of the country, Madurodam, and Scheveningen, the most popular beach of the country Utrecht historic town that has a less-ambitious canal system Andorra La Vella Table of Contents Get around See Buy Eat Drink Sleep Embassies Get out Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra. Get around You should be able to walk around most of Andorra la Vella. The town is really in two parts. There is the newer section at the North end of the town that is very commerical with lots of shops. The other half is the older half, down across the river and to the South and West. This also has quite a number of shops and places to eat and also the historic part. If you stay in either of these areas, you can easily cover on foot, but walking from the end of one half to the other will take a good half hour or more, so it is worth taking the local bus which is cheap. Be sure to read the timetable and routes carefully on the bus stop. See The church of Sant Esteve: dated from the 12th century. It is in the old part of the Andorra la Vella. Open: July to August: daily, 10.00-13.00 amp 15.00-19.00. Free-guided tour. The rest of the year only at mass hours. Church of Sant Andreu: Romanesque church dated from the 12th century. It is in the Sant Andreu St. Open: Mon to Sat. It is obligatory to reserve at phone 376 827 117. Casa de la Vall: The seat of the Consell General (Andorran Parliament) Dating from the 16th century. With guide service. Open: Mon to Sat 09.30-13.00 amp 15.00-19.00. Free-guided tour. Sundays (from May to October) from 10 to 14h. Bridge of la Margineda: This bridge dates from medieval times but is still in perfect condition. Nearby there is a metallic sculpture made by the Valencian sculptor Andreu Alfaro. It is in Santa Coloma. Rec del Sol and Rec de lObac: paved ways with handrails illuminated in the night. They are 2,5 km long. Starting point: Collegi Sant Ermengol road and Tarragona avenue, respectively. The town square: this is a surprisingly peaceful place with a panoramic view of the Valley of Andorra. You can visit the spa / sauna / swimming complex known as the Caldea. It is located at the top of the town in the large glass spire structure Parliament building and old town. The parliament building is a relatively modern building and you can walk around up the hill behind it and go onto the roof where there is a type of mini park. On a nice day, there is a great view out over the valley across and looking South towards Santa Coloma. From here you can head back up the hill slightly to the right and visit the old church of St Esteve. Behind it, is an interesting little area filled with narrow streets which is clearly the original location of the settlement. Buy The best bargains can be got in electronic goods and jewelry. High cost items tend to be cheaper than anywhere else because of the low tax. The great thing about the electronic goods like digital cameras is that there are a huge range of shops and a huge stock range, so you really get to see all the different makes and models. Some of the larger shops seem to stock a lot of brand label clothing. Don8217t miss out on the Via Moda Group8230. especially during sales. There are loads of ski gear shops. The best advice is to shop around. Pyrenees department store is at the southern end of Avinguda Meritxell. There are various family friendly restaurants, a large electronic goods floor, designer label floors, and a supermarket notable for interesting Andorran and Spanish specialty foods and red wines. Eat There are a number of reasonably priced restaurants, although many of them tend to be Italian food of pizza and pasta. Gourmets will naturally find good addresses with the prices to go with them. حذار. You find almost nothing open after 10:30p. m. so plan ahead El Vesuvio in nearby La Massana serves Italian and Moroccan food until 12am. Drink Drink and spirits especially are very good value in the supermarkets. Especially at the Hiper Andorra. Sleep Husa Centric Hotel - located centrally in the main shopping area. Reasonable rates. This is part of the Husa chain in Spain. Hesperia Andorra la Vella Avinguda Doctor Mitjavila, 376 880 880, (nh-hotels/nh/en/hotels/andorra/andorra/hesperia-andorra-la-vella. html) Price: Rooms from 59 Embassies Belgium Carrer Bra Riberaygua 39-4-3, 376 386-598, fax: 376 851-316, France Carrer Sobrevia 7-BP 155, 376 73 67 30, fax: 376 73 67 31, Portugal 376 805305, fax: 376 805875, San Marino Ave Princep Benlloch, 62-72, 376 860532, Spain Prat de la Creu, 34, 376 80 00 30, fax: 376 86 85 00, Switzerland Crowne Plaza Andorra, Carrer Prat de la Creu 88-89, 376 874444, fax: 376 874445, Get out Andorra la Vella is not a bad location if you want to go skiing because you can get either the local bus or the 8220Snow8221 bus up to most of the ski resorts. Most hotels during the ski season should have details. The old town is worth visiting. It is up on the hill to the West and South of the main modern part of the town. It is quite old and quaint. You should cover it in about 2 or 3 hours. Table of Contents Districts Understand Climate Orientation Respect Get in By plane Arrival Public Transport Departure By train Learn Eastern Arabic numerals By bus By car Get around By metro By taxi Sample Black-and-White taxi prices By bus Acess information See Coffee amp Sheesha Felucca Parks Recreation Shopping Horseback Riding Music and Culture Learn Work Buy Eat Egyptian and Middle Eastern food Western and Asian food Hygiene and diet issues Self-catering Drink Traditional Coffee Houses A social institution Fruit juice stalls Modern cafes and pastry shops Nightlife Sleep Mail Internet Mobile Phones Tourist Information Stay safe Emergency services Stay healthy Hospitals Embassies Cairo ( al-Qhirah) is the capital of Egypt and, with a total population in excess of 16 million people, one of the largest cities in both Africa and the Middle East (the regions which it conveniently straddles). It is also the 19th largest city in the world, and among the world8217s most densely populated cities. Situated on the Nile river, Cairo is famous for its own history, preserved in the fabulous medieval Islamic city and Coptic sites in Old Cairo. The Egyptian Museum in the center of town is a must see, with its countless Ancient Egyptian artifacts, as is shopping at the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. No trip to Cairo would be complete, for example, without a visit to the Giza Pyramids, and to the nearby Saqqara Pyramid Complex, where visitors will see Egypt8217s first step pyramid built by the architect Imhotep for the third dynasty pharaoh Djoser. Though firmly attached to the past, Cairo is also home to a vibrant modern society. The Midan Tahrir area situated in downtown Cairo area. built in the 19th century under the rule of Khedive Ismail, has strived to be a 8220Paris on the Nile8221. There also are a number of more modern suburbs including Ma8217adi and Heliopolis, while Zamalek is a quiet area on Gezira Island, with upscale shopping. Cairo is best in the fall or spring, when the weather isn8217t so hot. A felucca ride on the Nile is a good way to escape from the busy city, as is a visit to Al-Azhar Park. Cairo is vast with more than 17 million people, it8217s the largest city in Africa and the Middle East. The downtown core consists of the following districts: Situated along the Nile, Cairo has ancient origins, located in the vicinity of the Pharaonic city of Memphis. The city started to take its present form in 641 A. D. when the Arab general Amr Ibn Al-Ase conquered Egypt for Islam and founded a new capital called Misr Al-Fustat, 8220the City of the Tents8221, due to the legend of Al-Ase finding, on the day he was leaving to conquer Alexandria, two doves nesting in his tent. Not wanting to disturb them, he left the tent, which became the site of the new city in what is now Old Cairo. The Tunisian Fatimid dynasty captured the city in 969 A. D and founded a new city, Al-Qahira (8220The Victorious8221) just north of Al-Fustat. Al-Qahira gave the city its English name, Cairo, but the locals still call it Mar (), the Egyptian dialectal version of Amr8217s Mir. Confusingly, this also the Arabic name of the entire country of Egypt Climate The best time to visit Cairo is during the winter from November to March, when daytime highs generally stay below 25C, with nighttime lows around 10C with occasional rain showers clearing the air. (Don8217t bother packing an umbrella: even the rainiest months of the year rarely top 5 mm.) If visiting during winter, be aware that not all buildings, including some hotels and hostels, are equipped with heaters. Visitors should always pack a few warm jumpers and a warm jacket for evening wear. The brief spring from March to May can be pleasant, but summer temperatures, on the other hand, can reach a searing 38C, which is compounded by the city8217s terrible pollution which is at its worst in the fall before the rains. Orientation Today8217s Greater Cairo is a city with at least 17 million inhabitants, where skyscrapers and fast food restaurants nestle up to world heritage monuments. Originally, Cairo was the designated name of the city on the eastern bank of the Nile, and this is where you8217ll find both the modern Downtown, built under influence of French architecture, today the center of commerce and popular life, as well as historical Islamic and Coptic sights. Outside the core on the eastern bank, you8217ll find the modern, more affluent suburbs of Heliopolis and Nasr City near the airport, and Ma8217adi to the south. In the middle of the Nile is the island of Gezira and Zamalek, more Western and tranquil than the rest of the city. On the western bank is lots of modern concrete and business, but also the great Giza pyramids and, further to the south, Memphis and Saqqara. The city might seem like a lot to handle, but give it a try, and you will find that it has a lot to offer for any traveller Respect Greeting People When you approach any individual or a group of people for the first time, the best thing to say is the local variation of the Islamic form of greeting 8220Es-Salmu-Alku8221 which literally means 8220Peace be upon you8221. This is the most common form of saying 8220hello8221 to anybody. It creates a friendliness between you and people you don8217t know, builds rapport, and helps build respect It is also considered polite to say this if you approach someone, instead of just asking them for something or speaking to them directly. Other forms of greeting include 8220SbH el-xr8221 (8220good morning8221), 8220mas el-xr8221 (8220good evening8221), or the more casual 8220izayak8221 addressing a male, or 8220izayik8221 addressing a female, which means 8220hello8221 or 8220how are you8221. When leaving, you can say the same 8220Es Salamu Aleykom8221, or simply 8220Maa Salama8221, literally: 8220with safety8221 or 8220with wellness8221 which is used to mean to say 8220goodbye8221. More educated Egyptians will say 8220bye-bye8221 derived from the English 8220goodbye8221 or 8220buh-bye8221 when leaving others. Smiling: Most people appreciate a smile, and most Egyptians smile when they speak to someone for the first time. People who don8217t smile while they speak are considered arrogant, rude, aggressive, unfriendly, etc. However, be careful not to be too friendly or too smiley, especially if you8217re a female speaking to an Egyptian male, as they might mistake you for trying to befriend them or asking for them to flirt or hit on you. Even in a male-to-male conversation, being too friendly might give the other person the chance to try to take advantage of you some way or another. Always use common sense. Tone of Voice: Most Egyptians tend to have a loud voice when they speak, which is common to some other countries in the region. They are not shouting, but you will know the difference. Expressing Your Opinion: Egypt is a predominantly Muslim country so say nothing that might be perceived as an insult to Islam or the Egyptian culture. The same applies to any mention of the Middle East as a whole. Your best option is to not discuss religion or politics from a Western point of view at all. Dress Code: Women and men should wear modest clothing. It is considered disrespectful to the mainly conservative Muslim inhabitants to see visitors walking around wearing clothing which reveal thighs, shoulders, bare backs or cleavage, except at beaches and hotels. Men should also not walk about bare chested or wearing very short shorts outside of hotels or beach resorts. People do generally tend to dress more liberally at beach resorts, nightclubs, social outings, weddings, or when engaging in any sport, but there are no places to practice nudism or naturism as being nude in public. Mosque Etiquette: Do not enter a mosque with any form of shoes, sandals, slippers, boots, etc. on. as this is very disrespectful. Always take them off before entering as they carry the dirt from the street, and the mosque ( a place of prayer ) should be clean. However, you can keep socks on. Etiquette in the Presence of Prayer: Also, avoid walking in front of persons in prayer. The reason is because when people kneel, they kneel to God. If you stand in front of someone while they are praying or kneeling, it is as if they are kneeling to you or worshipping you, a complete taboo and against the basic foundations of Islam. Otherwise, it is quite acceptable for visitors or Christian Egyptians to carry on as normal in the streets or shops that operate during prayer times. Public Display of Affection: Like most other countries in the Muslim world, the Middle East, and even some non-Muslim conservative countries, affection should not be displayed in public. Egyptians are conservative and doing things like making out with your girlfriend/boyfriend in public is considered offensive, rude, or disrespectful. A public hug is less offensive, especially if greeting a spouse or family member you haven8217t seen in a while. You will notice male-to-male kissing on the cheeks when Egyptian men meet their friends, family, or someone they know well. This is not to be confused with the male-to-male kissing of some homosexuals in some western countries. Some Egyptian men like to walk next to their male friend with their arms attached together like a loop inside another loop. Again, this is not homosexual behavior. Gay/Lesbian Egypt is a Muslim and conservative country. Any display of homosexuality is considered strange, weird, disrespectful and may lead on most occasions to hostile reactions. Depending on the situation and the place and time, it could be anything from weird looks to physical abuse. Therefore, gays and lesbians should be discreet while in Egypt. The gay scene in Egypt is not open and free like in the West. Gays have been arrested by the police and detained and even tortured in Cairo in the past for engaging in homosexual activity. Human rights groups have condemned such actions and the Egyptian government has been under pressure from different sources including the USA to stop this degrading treatment of homosexuals. The most famous arrests were in 2001 at a boat called the Queen Boat located on the Nile River in Zamalek district. Further arrests have occurred since then, but the exact situation of homosexuals in the last few years is uncertain. There are no official gay places for cruising or meeting other people. Get in Cairo International Airport (), is the second biggest airport in Africa with more than 16 million passengers a year. It is well served by Egyptair the national carrier and its Star Alliance partners (Singapore Airlines. Lufthansa. Swiss , Austrian, BMI. LOT and starting may 2011 Continental), Sky Team (Air France. KLM. Delta. Alitalia), Oneworld (British Airways ), Gulf Carriers (Emirates. Etihad ) as well as budget carriers TUI-fly and Jet-Air-Fly . Arrival Go ahead and exchange some money in the airport 8211 best to do this before going through customs. ATMs for all major cards are available in the arrival halls. Visas are available at the bank counters before immigration. They are USD 15 and can also be paid in other currencies. Change is given in EGP or USD. The airport offers Exclusive Services that picks you up at the gate, does all immigration procedures for you and picks up your luggage while you wait in a comfortable arrival lounge for USD 50, not including the visa fees. It can be pre-booked via phone: Tel. 202 16708 Visitors are allowed to buy duty free articles on arrival. If youre visiting European or American Friends they are always keen to get your passports to get more booze and cigarettes than the excepted quantity at customs. At the airport, the additional quantity is 4 bottles of alcohol. In Terminal 3 there is one shop before immigration opposite the smokers lounge (well not really) but a much bigger one with a broader variety in the arrival hall after customs. At the check-out a customs official will check your passport and give approval for the purchase. You can be accompanied by the person picking you up (i. e. your host can choose the booze and pay while you only provide your passport). The airport has three terminals, the latest of which was opened in 2009. Egypt-Air and all Star Alliance members now operate all flights to and from the new Terminal 3. Most other airlines arrive at Terminal 1. Terminal 2 is closed since 2010 for renovation works. A free shuttle bus runs between the two terminals and the bus station every 30 minutes, 24 hours a day. Taxi drivers trying to lure you at the airport will try to tell you otherwise regarding the shuttle bus, but go outside the terminal and you will find the free shuttle bus. At Terminal 3 it is located at the arrival level at the end of the bus lane (turn right after the exit). At Terminal 1 the Shuttle Bus stops are at Hall 3 in front of the AirMall and at Hall 1 at the curb side. Unfortunately the bus stops are not marked. Sometimes you have to change busses at the bus station due to the driver8217s coffee break. The airport is on the north-eastern outskirts of the city at Heliopolis. If you want to spend the night at the airport, there are currently two hotels available: Novotel Cairo Airport (novotel/gb/hotel-0502-novotel-cairo-airport) Le Passage (lepassage-cairo/) A new 5-Star Hotel is beeing build at Terminal 3. There are other lodging options in nearby Heliopolis. Public Transport Getting to downtown Cairo can be a pain. Since the revolution white meter taxis are available at the Terminals. The basic fee is 2.50 LE plus 1.25 LE per kilometer. Do insist on using the meter. Do not accept a fixed price as they tend to be double the fare by meter. Report taxi drivers who refuse to use the meter to Airport Security or Tourist Police. Refuse to pay the 8220ticket8221 (5 LE airport parking fee) for the driver. If you are going to downtown Cairo, you may be able to share a taxi with other tourists or backpackers. Another option is to use transportation arranged by your hotel or hostel, though this service is often not complimentary. The most convenient way, however, is by one of the numerous 8220limousine services8221. Pick-Up points are in front of the terminals (curb side). The prices are fixed depending on the destination and the car category. Category A are luxury limousines (e. g. Mercedes-Benz E-Class), Category B are Micro Busses for up to 7 passengers and Category C are midsized cars (e. g. Mitsubishi Lancer). Since 2010 London Taxis are available from Sixt as a new Category D. Current Price List (2011) Destinations in Cairo A (Luxury) B (Micro Bus) C (Midsize) D (London Cab) Airport (Terminals, Hotels) EGP 65 EGP 45 EGP 45 EGP 50 Heliopolis EGP 110 EGP 70 EGP 60 EGP 85 Nasr City EGP 110 EGP 70 EGP 65 EGP 85 Gisr El Suez, Roxy EGP 120 EGP 85 EGP 65 EGP 95 City Centre EGP 155 EGP 100 EGP 80 EGP 125 Mohandesin, Zamalek, Dokki EGP 165 EGP 110 EGP 90 EGP 135 Giza, Maadi, Makatam EGP 200 EGP 120 EGP 100 EGP 155 New Cairo EGP 200 EGP 120 EGP 110 EGP 100 Helwan, Sakkara EGP 260 EGP 180 EGP 150 EGP 210 6th of October City EGP 350 EGP 190 EGP 160 EGP 290 Sdt City EGP 470 EGP 240 EGP 230 EGP 375 Micro Busses and London Taxis can be pre-booked: Micro Bus (Cairo Airport Shuttle Bus) 202 19970, (cairoshuttlebus) London Taxi (Sixt) 202 19670, fax: 202 463 010 00, (eg. sixt) For the adventurous, catch a public bus to Midan Tahrir or Midan Ramses from the bus station, which is conected to the terminals by the free Shuttle Bus. Ask a local if unsure, but don8217t catch the notorious (non-A. C) green buses. In some cases, the bus destination and, or number will be in Arabic. If this is the case, be prepared to ask a driver or passengers if the bus stops at your destination. Buses run every 30 minutes, take 60-90 minutes and cost LE 2. At least on the non-A. C bus, you may be charged an additional LE 1 if you bring aboard large or bulky items. To get from downtown to the airport, board an A. C bus at the bus terminal just north of the Egyptian Museum (under the highway bridge). Finally, there are also direct express buses from the airport to Alexandria every 30-60 minutes however, the buses operate only during daylight hours (4AM 8211 7:30 PM). Departure When returning to the airport for departure, allow plenty of time (2-3 hours to be safe) to get to the airport, as the roads can be very congested. The new airport road connects the airport with the intersection of the Ring Road and Suez Road and doesn8217t have traffic jams. If you depart on Friday morning or mid-day, the trip to the airport will be quick, as roads are deserted while people go to the mosque for Friday prayers. Egyptair and all Star Alliance airlines (Lufthansa Group, Singapore Airlines, LOT etc.) are leaving from Terminal 3. Saudi Arabian Airlines leaves from Terminal 1 Hall 2. All other airlines (Sky Team, Oneworld, Emirates, Etihad, etc.) leave from Terminal 1 Hall 1. Upon arriving, you need to pass through a security checkpoint before you can get to the ticket counter/check-in area. You must bring a print-out with you of your itinerary or ticket to show the security staff, in order to pass through the checkpoint. You will pass through a second security checkpoint just before boarding your aircraft. Allow plenty of time for getting through the security checkpoints and checking in, as lines can be long. Note that there is no baggage room at the airport. You can avoid the queues by using the Airports Exclusive Service which will do all the check-in and emigration formalities for you while you wait in a comfortable lounge and then lets you jump the lines at the first security check and passport control. It can be pre-booked via phone: Tel. 202 16708. Both terminals offer a good variety of duty free shops and restaurants. In Terminal 1 you8217ll find some Egyptair Duty Free shops opposite the gates. More shops and designer outlets are on the first floor. The lounges, a pub, Mc Donalds and Coffee Shops such as Starbucks are on the second floor. Terminal 3 has a central market place and food court. The shops in the concourses are limited. Gates in both terminals open maximum one hour prior to departure. Observe the flight data displays for delays as seating in front of the gates is very limited. By train Cairo8217s main railway station 8211 Ramses Station (Mahattat Ramses) 8211 is on Midan Ramses, which is also the location of the Martyrs Metro Station. Trains run to Cairo from most other regions and cities within Egypt. Trains in Egypt dont generally run on schedule, as a matter of fact they run consistently at least 15 minutes late, if not later. Train service is available from Ramses Station to Alexandria, while service to Luxor and Aswan is available at the Giza Railway Station. Visitors wishing to connect with trains to Luxor. Aswan. and the rest of upper Egypt should take the Metro from Midan Ramses Mubarak Metro Station. on line one to Giza Metro-Train Station which should take approximately twenty minutes. Trains also depart to the canal cities, but buses are much faster. Learn Eastern Arabic numerals Eastern Arabic numerals, instead of Arabic-Hindu numerals as used in the west, are used to indicate train numbers, departure times, seat numbers, and other key information. You may need to ask for help. The ticket agent or other friendly person might write the departure time in Arabic-Hindu numerals for you, though you may still need help finding your train car and seat. Or, you can use this chart below of Eastern Arabic numerals in the top table below to guide you. It is best to purchase tickets in advance to be assured of a seat. It is also important for travelers to ensure with the ticket office that the train is not a local train used by Egyptians to visit all of the small destinations south wards in the Nile Valley. but only the major cities. For comfort visitors should also preferably insist on a first class seat but nothing less than a second class. Online ticket purchases are not available, so you need to either go to the train station and buy your ticket there or go through a travel agency who can arrange this for you ahead of time. Especially in the summer months, trains running between Cairo and Alexandria do sell out, so advance purchase is advised. Sometimes it is possible to buy train tickets in the morning, for a train later the same day or if not busy, you might get on the next train. There are multiple windows for different classes and destinations, so check that you are in the correct line. There is a luggage room in the station, situated on your right of the entrance. The price of one box is 2.5 pounds/24 hours. Alexandria is served by a large number of departures through the day. Among the best trains are El-Espani (Spanish) which has a morning service from Cairo at 9AM. El-Espani and Turbine (Turbo) are the best services, going non-stop to Alexandria and taking 2 hours and 40 min. The next best service is Al-Fransawi (French), which stops at the major Delta cities on the road. The Express (French) and Turbo trains to Alexandria have first and second class, all air conditioned. Refreshments are available for purchase on the train. First class is recommended, but second class is also reasonably comfortable. Trains heading to Luxor, Aswan, and other Upper Egypt destinations also depart from the rail station in Giza. The Sleeping Trains (Abela Egypt) leave Cairo 8PM and arriving in Luxor 5.05AM and Aswan 8.15AM. There also is a 9:10PM departure from Cairo. Check the website for more departures, including one three days a week from Alexandria. It8217s relatively expensive at 60 USD for a bed in a double-person cabin one way. Tickets are bought at the office to your left as you enter the train station from the Metro and taxi station. The tickets are payable in US dollars, Euros, or British Pounds only. There are no exchange offices at the train station itself. It is also possible to make reservations in advance, by calling or faxing your request to Abela, and then pay for and pick up your tickets at the station. Since these trains are designated for tourists, you will stay in special cars guarded by armed plain-clothes policemen. Going to Upper Egypt, the alternative to the expensive sleeper (or flying) is the ordinary trains. One of these departs at 00.30 to Luxor and Aswan and is supposed to take 10 hours to Luxor and 13 hours to Aswan. Ramsis Station Tel. 202 25753555 By bus Buses arrive to Cairo from virtually all over the country. The two main destinations are Midan Ramsis and Cairo Gateway, formerly known as Turgoman, but vehicles also sometimes stop at other destinations, notably Abbasiya. From Midan Ramses and Cairo Gateway it8217s a quick 5 LE taxi cab ride to downtown, 7-10 LE to Zamalek. Cairo Gateway is a new, modern indoor station located approximately 500m from the Orabi Metro Station, within the new Cairo Gateway Plaza. Destinations: Port Said, Ismailiya, and Suez 8211 hourly services from Cairo Gateway (2 hrs 20-30 LE) Sharm el-Sheikh 8211 East Delta buses take approximately 8 hrs (80 LE) while Super-jet buses take 6 hrs. Some East Delta services continue to Dahab. When taking the bus to Sharm, keep your bus ticket and passport handy, as you will pass through a number of checkpoints, which require passengers to present identification and ticket. A cheaper option to get to Sharm by bus is to take a bus, a train, or a minibus to Suez (10LE) and from the main bus station there, take the 11AM or the 13:20 bus to Sharm for only 31 LE. Taba and Nuweiba 8211 Buses leave Cairo Gateway four times daily (06.00 hrs, 09.30 hrs 22.00 hrs and 23.00 hrs) with prices 70 LE for the morning buses and 80LE for the overnight ones. It takes around 6 hrs to get to Nuweiba. Siwa 8211 Direct buses leave Cairo Gateway Sunday and Wednesday nights at 7:45PM (60 LE) Uncomfortable, but cheap, micro-buses leave from Cairo to a large number of destinations. The main garages are Midan Ramsis (For Alexandria, 22LE, and to the delta valley) and Al-Marg metro station (for the north-east and Sinai). They are faster and might as such be an option for shorter trips, but have a terrible toll of accidents. There are also other places these buses leave from depending on your destination, ask locals. Be aware that at least for the Sinai, foreigners are prohibited to use the micro-bus system. Super-jet bus to Alexandria, Hurghada and Sinai TEL. 202 2266-0212. East Delta bus to Sharm El-Sheikh. Arish and Rafah Tel. 202 2576-2293. By car Driving in Cairo is not recommended, nor necessary. The traffic is, at the least, overwhelming for the common traveler. The driving has a consistency, but not in any official way. Road signs, lanes, right-of-ways, etc. are not adhered to, and there are a large number of junctions and flyovers. Traffic signals exist in only a few locations and are routinely ignored. Though, sometimes police officers are directing traffic at busy intersections. In downtown Cairo, drivers will sometimes bump other cars that are blocking their way. And, don8217t be upset if your side-view mirror gets hit. At night, many drivers do not use headlights, so use extra caution or avoid driving at night. In Egypt, vehicles travel on the right side of the road. Instead of making a left turn, you will often need to make a u-turn and backtrack, or you can make three right turns. Parking houses or official parking spots are rare. Cars may be parked two or three deep on the side of the road, and will often be left unlocked, and out-of-gear, so they can be moved. In many places, people work to look after parked cars. A small tip is expected for this service. Or, you can use valet parking. If planning to hire a car at the airport and drive directly out of Cairo do not assume that this will be easy, due to the chaotic conditions. Getting in and out of Cairo. To get to Alexandria. The North Coast. The Delta and The Western Desert drivers should take the Cairo 8211 Alexandria Desert Road from The Mewhwar Road - 26th July corridor from Down Town Cairo. To get to Beni Sueif, Fayoum, Assyut, Luxor, and Aswan, drivers from Downtown should take the The Sixth Of October-Fayoum exit at the Remaya Roundabout beside The Giza Pyramids at Le Meridian Hotel, to the Fayoum turn off at the Fayoum 8211 Sixth Of October junction, 6 KM from Remaya Roundabout. To get to Suez, Port Said, and Ismailia, drivers from Downtown should take the Ring Road to the Suez Road junction for Suez, and The Ismailia junction off the Ring Road for Ismailia and Port Said. To get to Hurghada, and Ain Sukhna, drivers from Downtown, should take the Ring Road to the New Ain Sukhna Toll Road at Kattamaya. To get to Sharm el-Sheikh, Dahab, Nuweiba, Ras Sidr, Al-Arish, and Rafah on the Sinai Peninsula, drivers from Downtown, should take the Ring Road to the Suez Road junction at the J. W. Marriot Hotel, through the Ahmed Hamdy Tunnel, on to the Sinai Peninsula. Get around You will find that it8217s useful to have several maps handy if you are looking to get around Cairo on your own. Spellings of street and place names can vary from map to map and from map to actual location, and not every street will appear on every map. By metro Cairo is home to Africa8217s first and most expansive metro system. While Cairo8217s metro system fully functioning is modern and sleek, the two lines are all too limited in scope. But they are a major boon in the areas they cover, and the flat rate fare of 1.00 LE per trip is a bargain. Visitors attempting to use the metro in Cairo should try not to be put off when they go to a ticket window to purchase a ticket. Egyptians do not queue, so be prepared to politely but assertively, navigate your way through the crowed to the ticket window. It is recommended that if you hope to ride the metro multiple times during the day, or within a few days of eachother, that you simply purchase multiple tickets to avoid standing in 8220line8221 on your return or future trips. The key interchanges are Mubarak, at Midan Ramses, and Sadat, below Midan Tahrir. The Cairo Metro has stations in Dokki and Maadi, among other places. The Metro is also a hassle-free way to get to Giza to see the Pyramids, although you8217ll need to complete the trip taking a bus all the way (change to bus for 8220Al-Haram8221 at the Giza train station). Plans have been made to add new lines to include Mohandiseen and Zamalek, as well as the airport however, little progress seems to be made on this. Note that there are two cars of each train reserved for women, which are located in the middle section of the train. The metro stops running at approximately midnight and starts up again around 6AM. There are no timetables, but departures are very frequent. The metro is better to use if you wish to avoid traffic jam. It is secure, costs one pound one trip and has a clear European navigation system. Solid-White Taxis: These are modern sedans equipped with meters that are usually used, AC, and run on natural gas. Most tourists will pay less using these taxis than they8217ll be able to negotiate with their non-metered brethren. They can be hailed from the street, and are common enough to be used perhaps exclusively (given a little patience) by any traveler. Compared to the black and white taxis, all tourists will find them more comfortable, and most 8211 less expensive. Bright Yellow Taxis: Typically available by reservation only, but sometimes try to pick up fares while en-route. Similar to the solid-white taxis, the meter starts at 3.50, 1/km after that. The drivers are not allowed to smoke in the cars. Referred to as 8216City Cabs8217 or Cairo Cabs8217. From within Cairo call 0104343438 8211 19155. Older Black-and-white taxis: These are the most common. However communication can be difficult as these usually have the oldest of drivers, and the meters are extremely outdated and thus not normally used. Prices are however not erratic for natives, and any Cairene knows what to pay depending on time and distance. Because of a recent 20 raise in gasoline prices, prices could be slightly higher. It is highly recommended that you have exact change before you enter, as drivers are reluctant to give change. Sample Black-and-White taxi prices Short trips within one area LE5 Downtown to Midan Hussein LE15 Downtown to Mohandesin LE10-12 Downtown to Pyramids LE35 Downtown or Zamalek to Airport LE35 Zamalek to Downtown LE8-10 Zamalek to Midan Hussein LE20 Ordinary Egyptians do not state prices beforehand. Instead the correct sum is paid through the window after leaving. Some drivers might protest as they expect tourists to pay more than standard. You can use the 8220walk away8221 technique. As long the driver does not leave the car, you8217re alright. If this happens, consult someone nearby. As a tourist you might prefer to state a price beforehand, which may prevent ripoffs but will naturally require you to quote above local prices. Try to avoid those loitering outside 5-star hotels and restaurants to minimize price inflation. Using a big hotel as your destination may also inflate the price. Always choose the taxi, don8217t let the taxi choose you. They also usually expect more money (2 or 3 LE) for ferrying more people. If you decide not to negotiate the price beforehand (this is the better method) be ready to jump ship and/or bargain hard if the cabbie brings up the fare after you are in the car. They rarely accept more than 4 people to a taxi. Also add 5-7 LE driving late at night. In General: Never continue traveling in any vehicle which you deem to be unsafe or the driver to be driving recklessly, especially in the dark on unlit roads, or in single track highways where overtaking is dangerous. If you feel unsafe simply tell the driver to slow down, if he does not do this immediately ask him to stop and simply get out and walk away. By bus The large red, white and blue public buses cover the entire city and are much cheaper, but are usually crowded. However, there are the similar air-conditioned buses that charge 2 L. E. for the trip and prohibit standing on the bus. They can be found in the main squares in Cairo. Also found in main squares are the smaller mini-buses that are usually orange and white or red, white and blue. Because of problems with sexual harassment women travelers are advised only to take the small micro-buses and buses which prohibit standing. Apart from the main bus stations, buses can be hailed from street-level. Buses are seldom marked with destination, instead passengers shout out (or use a number of sign-language like hand codes) their destinations and if the bus goes this place it will stop. On micro-buses, the fare starts at 50 piastres and goes up to 1 LE. Travelers unfamiliar with Cairo can ask bus drivers or passengers to let them know where there stop is. Don8217t be shy 8211 even if you don8217t speak Arabic, simply politely blurt out the name of your destination to the bus driver or a friendly looking passenger and they will take care of you. Late night bus riders Take note, bus frequency, length of route, and in some cases, fees can vary during the late evening hours onward. In some cases, a route may terminate, without notice, short of your destination. When this takes place, locals reply upon private citizens hoping to make some additional money, to get them to their final destination. As always, use caution, if you should choose to accept private transportation. One final note on late night bus transportation, since many mini - buses will not depart until the bus is nearly full, you should be prepared for a lengthy period of time, while the driver waits for enough people to board. There are a number of major bus stations (mawqaf , pl. mawaqif ) throughout the city. One of the largest is conveniently located behind the Egyptian Museum in Midan Tahrir. Note that there are actually two stations 8211 the main bus station for the city buses, and the micro-bus station behind it. Travelers who want to visit the Pyramids, for example, can catch a seat in a micro-bus for approximately 2 pounds. Visitors wishing to go to the pyramids and see a bus or micro-bus driver shouting Haram, should always before boarding make a pyramid triangle with your hands to ensure that the driver is driving to the actual pyramids themselves, and not just to the district of Haram, which although is fairly close to the pyramids, can terminate a fair distance from the pyramid entrance. There are also bus stations in Midan Ramses, under the overpass. Buses run from Ramses to Heliopolis, City Stars Mall and other destinations not covered by the Tahrir bus station. Acess information Access in Cairo is patchy. Anyone with moderate to serious mobility issues should expect to spend a lot of time in taxis. Wheelchair users, beware8230Many buildings have step-only access. Pavements are variable, even around the popular tourist attractions. There is often an incredibly steep drop from the curbs and where there are ramps they are better suited to pushchairs than wheelchairs. Expect potholes, gulleys, poorly cordoned-off building works and street works, and cars parked across the pavement, where there8217s a pavement at all. The white stick is recognised and help is often offered. The help that is offered can be a little misguided at times but it8217s usually well intentioned. Although more expensive by far, it is probably best to arrange taxis for major trips (such as visiting the pyramids) via your hotel. Picking up a taxi on the street can be hit and miss. Don8217t expect to be dropped off at the exact spot that you asked for you will often be taken to somewhere nearby. Always fix a price before you get into a taxi. Concessions on tickets cannot be taken for granted. For example, the Egyptian Museum offers a 50 concession for disabled patrons (and students) whereas the Cairo Tower doesn8217t offer concessions at all. A visit to the pyramids is a must. How one does it is either through one of the many stables around the site who will charge anywhere between 350LE and 650LE for a horse/camel ride around the site, or taking a taxi to the Sphynx entrance and attempting to walk. It is important to note that the site is amazingly up and down. A good level of mobility would be required to attempt it by foot. If you do opt for a horse/camel ride make sure that you haggle hard. If you are visually impaired or in any other way disabled it may be possible to gain permission to touch the pyramids. The outside of the pyramids are usually off limits to tourists and surrounded by a cordon. To arrange permission to touch a pyramid, approach one of the many tourist police dotted around the site. See A selected list of Cairo highlights: Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. The only remaining monuments of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, it is the country8217s most famous tourist attraction. Egyptian Museum, on Midan Tahrir. The world8217s premier collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts. Citadel, in Islamic Cairo. A grand castle built by Salah Al-Din. Also parts of the water pipes (Majra Al-Oyouon) are still there, these pipes used to carry the water from the Nile River to the citadel. Al-Azhar Mosque. One of the pillars of Islamic thought and home to the world8217s oldest university. Ibn Tulun, close to Sayida Zeinab. The oldest, and maybe most beautiful mosque in Cairo. The Coptic Museum, in Coptic Cairo. The 8220Hanging Church8221 (Church of the Virgin Mary), in Zabaleen Area (District of Manshiet Nasser) below Mokkatam Hills, not far away from the Citadel Cairo Tower (185 m./610 ft.) on Gezira Island offers a 360-view of Cairo, along with the Giza Pyramids off in the distance to the west. Al-Azhar Park Khan El Khalily Abdeen Palace Pharaonic Village Coffee amp Sheesha Have a coffee, mint tea or Cola at El Fishawy8217s coffee shop in Khan El-Khalili. Smoke a sheesha water pipe (try the 8220double apple8221 flavor) and watch the world go by. Great cheap entertainment. Felucca Ride a felucca along the Nile River. A great way to relax and enjoy a night under the stars in Cairo. Feluccas are available across from the Four Seasons Hotel in Garden City. To charter your own, negotiate a fair price of no more than 20 to 30 LE for about a half hour for the boat, or 50 LE for an hour, no matter how many people are on it. Pay after your ride, or you may get much less than you bargained for Public boats with loud Arabic music and a giggling crowd are also available for LE 2 for 1/2 hour. Parks Cairo has a shortage of parks, but a few of them exist. The most famous is the Giza Zoo located in the Giza district of Cairo, right in front of the entrance to the Four Seasons Hotel in Giza. This is actually one of the oldest zoos in the world (it was built approximately 100 years ago). Hadiqat Al Orman, traslated (Al Orman Gardens). This is a fairly large park in the giza district, close to the Giza zoo, and it can be enterred by paying a daily ticket at the gate. It contains a variety of trees and flowers and is a nice place to escape the noise and traffic of the city. However, it may be very crowded with locals especially on weekends and public holidays like the Eid, etc. Hadiqat Al Azbakiya, translated (Al Azbakieya Gardens). Another nice park to enjoy the greenery and scenery of trees and gardens, while remaining inside the city. It is located in the Azbakiya area of Cairo, the best option is to take a taxi and tell them to take you there. Genenet El Asmak, another park located in Zamalek. It is a nice park, which also includes several large caves containing water aquariums, where you can see different species of fish and underwater life through glass windows. Like other parks, a very cheap ticket enables you to enter and enjoy the day there. Genene El Asmak means (Garden of the Fish) in English. Merryland, in Arabic (Genenet El Merryland), located in Heliopolis district near Roxy Cinema. Again, another park with trees and gardens and nice scenery, but in the last 5 years ago, a number of restaurants and cafes have also opened up inside the park, which means it is now a place where people can eat, drink, and enjoy the park all together. El Hadiqa El Dawliya, in English this means (The International Garden), located in Nasr City district. It is one of the more recently opened parks, built when Nasr City district was built. Again, it8217s another park, with sections containing different copies of famous buildings from around the world. (The copies are much smaller of course and are like small statues that you can view (ie. The Eiffel Tower of Paris, The Great Wall of China, The Windmills of Holland, etc.) Interesting to see. Al-Azhar Park near Heliopolis, is probably the newest and most recent park to open in Cairo, also with restaurants and entertainment available. It has a good vantage point of Islamic Cairo and the city skyline. You can also take a stroll along the Corniche el-Nil, and there is a river promenade on Gezira Island. Desert Park: Wadi Digla Protected Area is a 60 square kilometer environmentally protected park near Ma8217adi, that offers opportunity for taking a trek, jogging, rock climbing, and cycling. Wadi Degla is also a good spot for bird watching, and viewing the various reptile species, plants, and deer that reside there. You can take a cab from Ma8217adi to the entrance at Wadi Delga. Cab drivers in Ma8217adi should know where to go. Recreation Other options for relaxation include visiting the Giza Zoo and the Cairo Botanical Gardens, or watching horse racing at the Gezira Club in Zamalek. Or when you need a break from city life, try a round of golf on the famous Mena House Golf Course overlooking the Pyramids, or The Hilton Pyramids Hotel tournament Golf Course and nearby Sixth Of October City. Ten minutes drive from Giza Pyramids. Or if the family, and especially children are fed up looking at monuments and museums, a ten minute trip from the Giza Pyramids by micro-bus, taxi, or car, will take you to two of the biggest and best theme parks in Cairo, Dream-park, and Magic land, both in nearby Sixth Of October City. Magic land is also part of The Media Production City complex, including The Mvenpick Hotel, where visitors can take a tour of the Egyptian TV and drama sets, and studios which house many of the Egyptian and other Arabic TV stations. Shopping Citystars is Egypt8217s premier shopping mall and is quite comparable to a foreign mall. It offers most international brands and most international food chains. It offers a cinema and amusement park. McDonald8217s, TGI Fridays, Fuddruckers, Ruby Tuesday, and more are all here. Horseback Riding Go horseback riding in the desert from one of the Nazlet El-Samaan stables like FB Stables (contact Karim 20 (0)16 507 0288. ) in Giza. Ride in the shadow of the Great Pyramids or further afield to Saqqara or Abu Sir or camp out over night with a barbecue and fire. Popular with expats who keep their horses at livery, FB Stables is also great for a 8216tourist8217 type ride to view the Pyramids from the desert. Longer rides to Saqqara and Abu Seer can be arranged in advance, as can sunrise, sunset and full moon rides. Other than the horses and good company, one of the best things about FB is their amazing rooftop terrace (with bbq) with unrivaled views over the Pyramids 8211 a great place to relax with a drink whilst watching the Sound and Light show. Music and Culture Sufi Dancing 8211 The Al Tanura Troupe offers free performances every Saturday, Monday and Wednesday night at 8:30PM at the Al-Ghouri Mausoleum. This picturesque place is situated nearby the Khan el Khalili souk, on a narrow street between the Al Azhar and Al Ghouri mosques. The Culture Wheel ( Al-Saqia). The largest independent cultural center in Cairo, offers concerts almost every night. The Garden Theater in Al-Azhar Park offers a range of musical performances. The venue is also a great place for an evening stroll. Cairo Opera House 82218217Egyptian Center for Culture amp Art (MAKAN) Egyptian Traditional music. The Townhouse Gallery of Contemporary Art Hussein El Me, (202) 2 576 80 86, (thetownhousegallery/) Cairo Jazz Club 197, 26th July Street, Agouza, Giza (From Zamalek, just before Sphinx Square) (202) 2 3345 9939, (cairojazzclub) Learn The International Language Institute (ILI), in Mohandesin offers courses in Modern Standard Arabic and Egyptian dialect up to an intermediate-advanced level in an international student environment. Teachers are professional and prices relatively low. Kalimat Language and Cultural Centre, 22, Mohamed Mahmoud Shaaban St. Mohandessin, Giza, (202) 761 8136 / 337 5814. This is a great language school with a lot of friendly teachers and students from around the world. Work According to a recent survey by the Egyptian government in May 2011, there are at least 3 million expat foreignors working in Egypt. This is strange considering that Egypt is a developing country, with a high rate of local unemployment and suppressive economic conditions, especially after the 25th of January 2011 revolution, which has seriously affected the economy. However, there are no strict labor requirements like other developed countries that receive immmigrants such as the EU, Canada, or the USA. Even so, the law is not very often applied as employers easily play around the law to hire their needs from foreignors. That being said, it really depends on the kind of job and field you are applying for. Factory Work/Industrial Labor There are many thousands of people from South East Asia, China, and the Far East working low-paying jobs in factories and similar places. They8217re hired because they8217re cheaper than hiring locals. Some well-to-do families also like to hire foreign workers to work in their houses as cleaners, houskeepers etc. The majority come from poorer African countries or places like the Phillipines and Indonesia. Teaching/Education If you come from the West however, the situation may be very different depending on your qualification. The most demanded are those who come from native English speaking countries (i. e. the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, etc). The most demaded jobs for these people are English teachers at schools and some university professors. There are many foreign schools in Cairo and some other big cities that prefer to hire native English speakers as part of their school staff. The reason obvioulsy being that the ability to teach English with a native accent and more importantly their foreign qualifications. Other opportunites may arise in similar institutions if your native language is French, less if it8217s German, and even less if it is some other European language. Tourism/Hotel Industry There is some demand for Russians also in nightclubs, and hotels. The tourism industry in general may be willing to hire foreigners from European backgrounds to work in countless diving centers and small business around the Red Sea area in Dahab, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh, where many tourists come from Europe to take diving courses in their native langue (German, Dutch, French, Italian, Russian, English, Polish) and other languages being the most popular. Call Centers/Customer Service Reps Recently, there has also been a huge demand for anyone who speaks fluent English with a clear native or neutral accent to work in most of the country8217s ineternationally based call centers located in and around Cairo. During the past 10 years, Egypt has become a major player in the telecommunications and call centers industry in the the Middle East. Many companies including Vodafone, Teleperformance, and other large local call centers are in constant need of English language speakers to work in their call centers, as there aren8217t that many Egyptians capable of speaking English fluently and clearly enough to serve these companies8217 offshore accounts. Examples include Vodafone UK, Vodafone Australia, and Vodafone New Zealand, which are currently being outsourced by the call center of Vodafone Egypt, which basically hires anyone to work as a call center agent, who speaks fluent English regardless of their nationality. Even if English is not your mother language, the only requirement is the ability to communicate in the language and work shifts. Pay is not bad considering the much lower living expenses in Egypt compared to the West. Salaries for these positions may range from 2,500 LE to 3,500 LE (1 USD5.93 LE) per month and many companies offer free transportation, medical insurance, social insurance, and other benefits like a mobile allowance. Job and Employement Resources: The American International School in Cairo (AIS), (2 locations in 6th of October City Sheikh Zayed) and Fifth Settlement (EL Tagamoa El Khames ) the 2 being on the Western and Eastern corners of the city. CAC (Cairo American College) in Maadi, with a long history of American curriculum and American/Foreign staff, and foreign students. The American University in Cairo Canadian International College German University in Cairo (GUC) For Call Center jobs, mainly customer service representatives/agents serving offshore companies in Europe and North America, (outsourced by the call centers in Cairo) try: Vodafone Egypt (located in Smart Village on the Cairo/Alexandria Desert Road) (the Call Center is located in 6th of October 6th Horizon Building in the 4th Industrial Area. Teleperformance Egypt (another multinational company, originally French located in 50 countries worldwide) and based in downtown Cairo. Go to teleperformance and choose Egypt to get the full contact and address details. Here again, you can work in either French or English accounts with a salary package around 3,000 LE per month, plus medical and social insurance. Xceed Contact Center, a local contact center with a good reputation located in Smart Village, with English, French, Hebrew, and many languages Raya Contact Center, in 6th of October Wasla Cont act Center Egyptian Contact Center Operator (ECCO), in Imtedad Ramsis, near Heliopolis and Nasr City C3 The Call Center Company Stream Call Center, in 6th of October, with English and French You can find all address details and websites of these companies if you search them on google or on the internet in general. Most of them are in constant demand of fluent English speakers regardless of your nationaltiy because of the booming telecommunications and call center industry in the Egyptian economy. Many of them outsource other companies originally based in Europe and the West. For other kinds of jobs, the best option is to have a technical background or previous managing experience in a multinational company and get transferred to the local branch of the company in Egypt. Other opportunities include teaching English as a free-lance instructor, but it may take a while before you are able to gather enough students to make a good living. Current rates range from 50 LE to 100 LE per hour/lesson in private lessons. Many people in Egypt want to learn English or improve it as it is always demanded in the Egyptian market. If you have professional qualifications there are many possibilities for work in Cairo. Try any of the local employment or job websites: Career Mideast (careermideast), one of the oldest job websites in the country, serving the entire Middle East Region, even other countries Bayt (bayt) you will find jobs in the entire Middle East including Egypt in all sectors The American Chamber of Commerce Website (they have a comprehensive database of all kinds of jobs in all sectors and industries (amcham. org. eg) Wazayef Masr (it can be easily found on google search) There are several job fairs/employment fairs that take place every few months in Cairo. Most of them are free to attend by anyone looking for a job. They usually are advertised in English adverts in the Arabic newspapers such as Al Ahram Newspaper. The ads are easy to spot as they are large picture advertisments and written in English, even though the newspaper is in Arabic. They normally take place in well-known places like large five star hotels or the City Stars shopping complex. Examples include Job Master Job Fair, Wazayef Masr Job Fair, and the American Chamber of Commerce Job Fair. You can meet lots of different employers, with mostly multinational companies based in Cairo and other local well-known Egyptian companies. Most recruitment teams at the fairs speak fluent English. You must bring your cv/resume as most employers expect you to apply for a job on the same day, then you will be called for an interivew a few days/weeks later if they have a suitable vacancy. Take at least 20-30 copies, one for each employer and dress semi-formally or formally. Another option is any of the foreign embassies located in Cairo. You can also try the English weeklies al-Ahram and al-Waseet for job vacancies. Otherwise, if you have some connections, you can always network with people that you know, and sometimes it may lead to landing a job somewhere. Please note that Egyptian work conditions may be very different from the West. It is more of a friendly casual environment, but everybody is still treated with respect. Working hours are normally 9-5 pm, and the weekend is Friday and Saturday (Friday substituted for Sunday because it is the day that muslims go to pray at the mosque). Annual leave is normally 21 days, and most national holidays are days off as well. ATMs are conveniently located in various places throughout downtown. A more secure option are the ATMs in the five star hotels. There also are numerous places that handle currency exchange, or you can try any major bank such as HSBC or Commercial International Bank for currency exchanges or redeeming travelers cheques. There also are a number of Citibank branches in Cairo. Foreign currencies can also be exchanged for Egyptian pound in all the Egyptian banks like Banque Misr. National Bank of Egypt. Banque De Caire. Arab African Bank. The United Bank. or the large branches of Bureau De Change. Be aware that many merchants will try and scam you out of as much as they possibly can. A particularly common trick are the papyrus museums. They come in many different flavours, but they often call themselves galleries, museums or workshops. You will be given a brief talk or demonstration on how papyrus is made, and warned against cheaper shops that make their papyrus from banana leaf (though no matter where you go, no-one has a sample to show you, questioning the legitimacy of this 8220warning8221). Their prices will be in the hundreds, and you will be offered appears to be an excellent discount. If you look around however, you will see most of what they offer is worth 1-5 pounds at the most. Tour guides, taxi drivers and hotel staff are all in on this, and will often get a 50 commission if they lead an unwitting tourist into this trap. The Khan El-Khalili bazaar is a giant souq in Islamic Cairo. The merchants here are ravenous and skilled, so don8217t fall for the hard sell and be prepared to haggle. This is a great place to buy rustic glassware and perfume bottles. Be choosy. Zamalek has a number of small, but high-end shops, along with shops selling crafts, jewelry and other items. Fair Trade Cairo in Zamalek is a great shop selling high quality crafts made by local artisans. Nefertari, also in Zamalek, has wonderful organic cotton linens, skin care products, and the like. There is also Nomad, that has a small, charming second floor showroom in Zamalek, as well as Nagada, and Khan Misr Taloun. Diwan, in Zamalek, is a very nice primarily English-language bookstore. Midan Talaat Harb and surrounding streets, including Talaat Harb Street, are home to countless shops, selling everything from shoes and books to sweets. The Midan Ataba area in Downtown Cairo is home to large bookseller markets, where you can find inexpensive books, as well as electronics and clothing markets. Eat Cairo has an enormous number of restaurants, catering to most needs. Cheap food can be found everywhere in street restaurants and snack stalls. The top notch restaurants are often, but not always, found in hotels and Nile boats. The borders between restaurants and cafes are not crystal-clear in the Egyptian capital. In many places it is perfectly acceptable to just have a drink or sheesha. Medium and high-range outlets might have a minimum charge. Cheaper restaurants will normally not serve alcohol as well as some more expensive outlets. In general, downtown is good for budget eating, while for higher quality eating you should head to Zamalek, Mohandiseen or any of the other more affluent parts of town. Egyptian and Middle Eastern food Traditional Egyptian staples are available almost everywhere. In stalls and street restaurants you will find traditional dishes like fuul (bean paste), taa8217miya (falafel), muzagga (the Egyptian version of the Greek moussaka), kushari (rice, macaroni, lentils, chick peas, and sometimes a tomato sauce), fetyeer (pancakes with different fillings) and shawarma (a recent import from Lebanon and Syria pieces of roasted meat usually wrapped in bread). Cheaper places will only serve up vegetables and maybe beef hot dogs or corned beef. Eggs, fried potatoes and salads are also usually available. Hygiene varies wildly and the best advice is to go for the most visited places. Avoid empty restaurants as the food will be less fresh. Especially downtown you can find many good kushari shops, including many outlets of the excellent Kushari Tahrir chain. Delicious and cheap fuul. falafel, and shawarema sandwiches can be bought at the many outlets of popular GAD fast food chain dotted around Cairo. The average price for a tub of takeaway kushary is between 3 to 5 Egyptian pounds, fuul falafel sandwiches is between 1 to 1.5 Egyptian pounds, and shawerma sandwiches are between 4 and 8 Egyptian pounds. In the medium and upper price range your choice of traditional Egyptian food will be more limited. Although the situation is improving, traditionally Egyptian gastronomical experiences are still mostly restricted to private homes. Quality chain restaurants like Felfela (several outlets), Abou El Sid (Zamalek, Maadi and Dokki), and Abou Shakra offer authentic Egyptian food. Otherwise Arabic and oriental restaurants tend to mix styles or completely go for more Lebanese-style eating, considered more stylish by rich Cairenes. The good side of this is that Cairo is blessed with many quality Lebanese outfits, from chains like Dar Al-Qamar to stylish restaurant establishments. Additionally, Turkish food and restaurants catering to Gulf visitors can be found. Western and Asian food Cairo has a growing number of Western fast food outlets available 8211 these are, incidentally, some of the best places to see young Cairenes relaxing together, as fast food restaurants are apparently considered amongst the hippest places to hang out. McDonalds, Hardees, Pizza Hut. and KFC are spread about the city, but they are relatively more expensive. Most of these also offer free wireless internet. Mo8217men chain. Cook Door the Egyptian equivalent of McDonald8217s has similar menu with similar prices and free wireless internet. Lighter meals like sandwiches and salads as well as pastries can be found in western-style bakeries and cafes. Popular chains like Cilantro, Beanos, Costa, and The Marriott Bakery as well as individual outlets all offer more or less similar dishes. Most of these places also offer free wireless internet. There is also a cute TGI Friday8217s on the Nile banks at the entrance of Maadi, serving beer but no wine. Gezira also has its very own Chili8217s. For burgers, you can also try Fuddrucker8217s fuddruckers/ (Maadi and Mohandesseen) or Lucille8217s lucillesrestaurants/ in Ma8217adi (54 Road n 9) which is owned by an American woman. Maison Thomas has several branches throughout Cairo, including Mohandiseen, Zamalek, and Maadi, and serves some of the best pizza in Cairo. There is an Italian place called the Mint in Mohandesseen 30 Gezirt Al Arab ST. open 9AM till 1.30 AM, which boasts a very stylish interior, however it8217s alcohol free. If it8217s more stylish international dining you8217re into, Cairo offers a wide variety: Italian, Chinese and Japanese outlets in addition to the ambiguous continental cooking abound, especially in areas like Zamalek, Mohandseen and Dokki. Rossini fish restaurant 66 Omar Ibn El Khatab ST 202 2291-8282. Cedars 42 Gezerit Al Arab Mohandeseen 202 3345-0088, this Lebanese restaurant is a favorite with Mohandesseen8217s ladies who can order grills and salads in a specious outdoor terrace. Hygiene and diet issues For health reasons it is advisable not to drink tap water or eat unpeeled fresh fruits and vegetables 8212 at least for the first few days of the visit. There are few solely vegetarian options, L8217aubergine in Zamalek is a good restaurant for vegetarian food. Otherwise, Egyptian cuisine is dominated by vegetable courses, but be aware of 8220hidden8221 meat in stock, sauces and the like. One should also be cautious about sushis( slushees) or ice creams sold outside of main hotels. Also, if served eggs, one should be cautious to ensure that they are fully cooked (sunny side up eggs may allow certain organisms to be transmitted). Self-catering The Metro chain and Alfa Market dotted around Cairo are convenient supermarkets. They often stock Western brands. Otherwise vegetables and fruit are plentiful and cheap. Bakeries such as The Bakery chain sell western-style bread and pastries. Organic food from the local ISIS brand is available at the supermarkets Metro and Carrefour and the Sekem Shop in Ahmed Sabri Street ( ), Zamalek. By far the cheapest and most satisfying option, buying from Souks and outdoor markets makes for a crash course in Arabic and haggling, not to mention that the produce is often superb Bread can be found on nearly every corner and comes in two types 8211 whole wheat aysh baladi and white flour aysh shami. Both are baked fresh daily and delivered by thousands of kids on bicycles to every corner of the city. Every neighborhood has a few streets dedicated to produce and other goods. Always wash fruit thoroughly before eating. Eating a fresh Roma tomato in the heat of Summer straight from a market seller after being washed is a delight, hard to match. The fruits and vegetables in Egypt may not conform to EU or US standards of size, but their taste is far superior. Small bakeries (furne) sell every kind of baked good imaginable 8211 ranging from Italian style bread sticks with nigella and sesame seeds to croissants, donuts and anything with dates in it. Fresh goods from these bakeries offers a nice alternative to the standard Egyptian breakfast of beans, beans, and beans, as well as the fact that this bread is very cheap. Drink Cairo has a wide range of drinking options from the very traditional to fashionable and modern. At the other end of the scale, almost any street in Cairo has a traditional coffee house, ahwa, a traditionally male institution of social life tracing many hundreds of years back in history. Besides that you8217ll find everything from fruit stalls to patisseris and bakeries and modern cafs whipping up all varieties of modern European coffee. In addition to the traditional Turkish coffee and shai tea, virtually everywhere you8217ll find drinks like hibiscus tea kerkedeeh, served warm or cold depending on season, sahleb, a milk-based drink usually served in winter, fakhfakhenna (a kind of fruit salad), sugarcane juice, mango and tamarind juice, Tamr hindi. Traditional Coffee Houses Cairo remains one of the best cities in the world to sample the traditional coffee house culture of the region. They are called maqh in Standard Arabic, but in the local dialect this is turned into ahwa. The Turkish coffee remains an invariable ingredient in any Cairene coffee house, and water pipe (sheesha) and tea is even more popular. While considered 8220old fashioned8221 for a time, these places are again turning fashionable among younger crowds and even smoking a water-pipe is no longer a male-only pastime. Places vary from just a small affair8211plastic chairs and tables put out on the street8211to more elaborate cafes especially in upscale and tourist areas. A social institution When coffee was introduced to the Arab and Islamic world in the 1600s the Islamic clergy attempted to outlaw it. However people8217s cravings soon convinced the sheikhs against this, although even today the most pious followers of Islam would still avoid visiting an ahwa. For most Egyptian men however, it is an important social institution, usually near one8217s home and the local mosque or church. It is the place to chat, pick up the latest news, read the paper, watch a TV show or a soccer match, or simply people watch while puffing a waterpipe sheesha. Some say there are more than 20,000 coffee houses in Cairo. Today Downtown and Islamic Cairo are the best places to visit for a sampling of this essential part of Cairene life. For many, the sheesha or water pipe, is the main attraction of any visit to a Cairene coffee house. It is usually available in at least two varieties, muassal, pure tobacco, and tofh, apple-flavored. Other fruit varieties are sometimes available. Coffee houses range from the more elaborately decorated to a simple counter and some plastic chairs and tables spread out in the street. Foreigners are invariably made welcome, although women might feel uncomfortable visiting coffee houses in traditional, poor areas of the city. However, in downtown and the tourist areas of Islamic Cairo single or women-only groups should not expect anything more than the ordinary hassle. Turkish coffee (ahwe turki) is served either sweet (helwa), medium sweet (masbout), with little sugar (sukr khafeef) or no sugar (sda). Sweet means very sweet. Tea (shai) is served either as traditional loose tea (kshari, not to be confused with the Cairo macaroni-rice stample kushari), known as dust tea in English, or in a tea bag. Most coffee shops usually offer fresh mint leaves to put in your tea, upon request. A range of soft drinks are usually available. Most typically you will find hibiscus tea (karkadee), served warm in the winter season and cold during the warmer parts of the year. Fruit juice stalls During the hot Cairo summer, fruit juice stalls selling fresh juice (and occasionally fruit salads and other soft drinks) are a delight not to be missed. Basically these places sell fresh-pressed juice of whatever is in season. Typical choices include orange (bortoql), lemon (limon), mango (manga) and strawberry (farawla), guava (gawafa), pomegranate (Rummn). Prices and quality depend on season and availability. These places are spread out around the city and available at almost all the places tourists typically visit and in all local residential districts. Traditional coffee houses or fruit juice stalls might sell all or some of these drinks. A health reminder Use extra care if you choose to consume beverages from fruit stalls. In general, food handling procedures are not up to Western food sanitation standards. Modern cafes and pastry shops Modern cafes and patisseries are spread out around the city. Typically they serve light food like sandwiches and salad in addition to espresso-based coffees and pastries. Many of these places are chains, like Cilantro, Beanos, Cinnabon, Orangette, The Bakery and Coffee Roastery. Most of these places, including all the chains mentioned above, offer wireless internet connection as well. International chains such as Costa Coffee and Starbucks are also widely available throughout Cairo. Nightlife For the capital of a Muslim country, Cairo is relatively liberal when it comes to the consumption of alcohol. A wide range of bars and dance clubs is available, basically in every major hotel, and some are open 24/7. If you8217d like to explore the less fancy drinking places in Cairo, Downtown is definitely the place to go. Upscale nightspots are found in and around the Zamalek area Sleep Cairo has a tremendous range of accommodation, from low-rent budget hotels downtown to five-star palaces along the Nile. See individual district articles for hotel listings. Mail The main post office of Cairo is on Midan Ataba (open 7AM 8211 7PM Sa 8211 Th, 7AM 8211 12 noon Fr and holidays). The poste restante office is to be found along the side street to the right of the main entrance to the post office and through the last door (open 8AM 8211 6PM Sat 8211 Th, 10AM 8211 12 noon Fr and holidays) 8211 mail will be held for 3 weeks. Egypt-Post livery is green and yellow. There are two kind of mail boxes for international and domestic use. They are typically found on the street in pairs, colored green and yellow. It is said that your mail will be delivered no matter which one you use. Always use the register mail facility to post anything valuable or important. It takes longer but each step of the journey is recorded, as many letters do not arrive at their destinations when using regular mail service. Internet The Internet is rapidly growing in Cairo as in many other Egyptian and Middle Eastern cities. There is now a profusion of established internet cafs and venues, with many more opening for business each month. An hour in a downtown net cafe will set you back 3-5LE. A growing number of cafs including Cilantro and Beanos provide wifi for free, and if all else fails, you can always drop into a McDonalds and try their network. Luxury hotels often provide WiFi at a premium. Also, mobile providers offer relatively high speed internet access via a USB dongle. For example, a Mobinil or a Vodafone USB dongle and sim card will cost you 99LE with 50LE of credit. If you have access to a traditional telephone line in Cairo, then you will be able to access the internet through dial-up connection for 1.25 LE per hour by dialing 0777 XXXX numbers. Mobile Phones In Egypt, cell phone are a way of life. Walking down any street, or on a crowded bus, it seems that most Egyptians are addicted to cell phones (similar to what you may find in Japan or Korea). Instead of using your phone from your home country (which often tend to carry very high roaming fees), consider obtaining an Egyptian SIM card or cheap unlocked phone. The 2 main carriers in Egypt are Mobinil and Vodafone Egypt. with UAE8217s Etisalat a growing 3rd player in the Egyptian market. Mobinil and Vodafone offer the best coverage, but for tourists Etisalat is the best option because it gives the most bang for your buck with minutes and seems to have the lowest calling rates abroad out of any of the 3 (a difference of paying 0.55USD per minute for a call to the States than paying 2.50 USD for using your home GSM provider on roaming). You can find mobile dealerships in every section of Cairo (frankly, you can8217t avoid them), and getting set up is fairly easy. SIM cards for any of the 3 providers go for about 5-20 LE (about 1 to 5 USD). You will need to bring your identification (its recommended to bring a copy of your ID, as you may not want someone walking off with your passport in a shady shop to make a copy). If you don8217t have an unlocked phone, many shops will sell cheap older models (usually Nokia phones) as secondhand phones. But beware, make sure that the phone is fully functional before purchasing it, and buying a used one is at your own risk (as a good percentage of these tend to be stolen ones). Tourist Information The Egyptian Tourist Authority touregypt. net has offices in Cairo City Center, 5 Adly Street, phone: 3913454, Pyramids, Pyramids Street, phine: 3838823, fax: 3838823, Rameses Railway Station, phone: 5790767, Giza Railway Station, phone: 5702233, El Manial, Manial Palace, phone: 5315587, Airport, phone: 2654760, fax: 4157475, New Airport, phone: 2652223, fax: 4164195 and Cairo International, Airport8217 phone: 2914255 ext.2223. Stay safe You can walk around the main streets anytime you feel like roaming. It8217s fairly safe and you will always find lots of people around smiling and offering to help. Women alone can expect to be the target of an excessive amount of catcalling, but it rarely, if ever, goes beyond that. You should bear in mind that around the more touristy locations there is an abundance of 8216helpful8217 people, but be careful who you go with and under no circumstance let anyone push or guide you anywhere you don8217t want to go If you get lost look for the security and police officers. Many speak a little English, and most know their local area very well, as well as the tourist spots. Crossing streets is another major challenge in Cairo. Traffic lights, which only exist in a few locations, are routinely disregarded. In downtown Cairo, police officers may be controlling traffic at key intersections at busy times. To cross the street, it8217s like playing the video game 8220Frogger8221, hurrying across the street one lane at a time, when there is a small break in traffic. One way to cross a street that proved to be effective is to find an Egyptian who wants to cross the street, place yourself next to him/her down traffic and shadow his/her moves. Also, when riding in a taxi, the driver may go quite fast and drive erratically. If at any time you feel unsafe simply tell the driver to stop and get out. As Egypt went through a revolution between January and February 2011, the city, especially the Tahrir Square district, and the whole country were filled with protesters demanding the resign of Hosni Mubarak and the country to transition into a democracy. After Mubarak resigned, most protests have subsided and many travel alerts have been lifted. Occasionally there will be some protests, usually in Tahrir Square. Although the protests are mostly peaceful, it is up to you to decide if you want to stay away or join them in solidarity. Emergency services Police 122, Ambulance 123, Fire 180, Stay healthy Tummy upsets As elsewhere in Egypt, be careful with what you eat. Raw leafy vegetables, egg-based dressings like mayonnaise and minced meat are particularly risky. Avoid cold salads and puddings from buffets even in the 5 hotels just to be on the safe side. Opinions on tap water vary, but most visitors choose to stick to the bottled stuff. Large bottles of water can be purchased for 2 or 3 LE. Avoid ice in drinks, and only eat fruit with a skin you can wash or peel. You may find that tummy medications you bring from home simply don8217t work. All visitors would do well to buy from any pharmacy Egyptian brand drugs. The best and most common being Entocid and Antinal. Diarrhea and vomiting can almost always be stopped by taking 2 of these tablets with a glass of water in a few hours. If symptoms persist, it is wise to consult a doctor as dehydration in Summer can come on quickly. Smog can reach extreme levels, especially in late summer and fall before the rains. This, coupled with the summer heat, can make spending time outdoors in the summer quite unpleasant. Mosquitos Mosquitos are a part of life in Egypt so you will have to live with them. They are active from dusk till dawn, and then find a dark sheltered place to sleep during the heat of the day. They love humidity and wet environments where they breed. They also love leafy green gardens, and hedging. Sitting around lakes, pools, or in a garden at night can be suicide. Only the female bites, and one female in a bedroom can cause much discomfort by morning, so it is always wise to kill any before sleeping. A fly swatter is best as they move due to air pressure, swatting with a newspaper will not work. Mosquito repellent sprays are of little value either. Most hotels will have smoke sprays at dusk to quieten them down but they will revive and attack later. The best defense is to kill any in hotel rooms. Wear long sleeves and long trousers when out at night. When out sit in a breeze or in front of a fan as they do not like moving air. The mosquito tablets and burners merely make them sleepy, they do not kill them. It8217s better to spend a few minutes going round the hotel room killing any you see than suffer days of itching and painful bites. Hospitals For medical care, hotels usually have a house doctor on call. Any major operations are best performed outside Egypt, but the following hospitals are generally considered the best in Cairo: Cleopatra Hospital Heliopolis, 2414-3931, (cleopatrahospital) Dar El Fouad Hospital 6th of October City, 3835-6030, (daralfouad. org/) Backpackers will see doctor8217s offices dotted all around Cairo on board signs. They are speciality specific. Just look for one and then inquire. Note most surgeries open after 5PM and run late till sometimes midnight. A consultation fee will give you a consultation and one follow up appointment. Travelers can also visit private hospitals like El Salam, Dar Al Fouad,6th October University Hospital, Ain Shams University Hospital, Kasr El-Eney during the day. Each has an outpatient clinic with various specialists on duty. Usually no appointment is necessary and you will be seen depending on how early you arrive. The fee for the outpatient clinic of 6th October University Hospital for a consultation and follow up is 40le. Embassies Canada (canadainternational. gc. ca/egypt-egypte/splash. aspx) China 14 Bahgat Aly St, Zamalek, 202 7361219, fax: 202 7359459, (eg. china-embassy. org/eng/) Germany (kairo. diplo. de/Vertretung/kairo/de/Startseite. html) Greece 18 Aisha El Taymouria Str. Garden City, Cairo, 20227951074, 20227955915 email, fax: 20227963903, (hellas. org. eg/index. html) Macedonia Rd Al Nahda 41, 3/402, Maadi, 202 25 172 100, fax: 202 25 172 122, (missions. gov. mk/cairo) Alexandria is a possible day-trip. Enjoy a day visiting the library, a museum, fortress or the beach and return to Cairo after a good fish meal and maybe a drink. A first-class train ticket will cost about 52LE and 35LE for second class each way and takes about two and a half hours (timetable from Egyptian Rail is available here, egyptrail. gov. eg/docs/online/online. html). Ain al-Sukhna is the closest Red Sea resort to Cairo and easily reached on a day trip. This place is growing rapidly to become the getaway for Cairo8217s moneyed elite. To get here, hire a taxi for the day for about 200-300 LE. Fayyoum is another popular place for Egyptians to picnic. While the city offers little in itself, the Qaroon lake and Wadi Al-Rayyan both offer scenic spots for relaxing and the area also contains some of the first pyramids in history. Get there by bus and then get a taxi to drive you around for the day at approximately LE 100 or get a taxi from Cairo at LE 200-300. It8217s possible to stay overnight at the scenic Tunis village for 30 LE. The pyramids of Saqqara, Memphis and possibly Dahshur all offer an easy day trip out of Cairo. Expect to pay at least LE 150-200 for a private taxi. Helwan the Japanese Gardens in Helwan 20 mins drive from Downtown or by The Metro is a perfect place to spend an afternoon picnic away from the city. 6th October City has 2 large American Style Theme Parks and is a 30 minute drive from the Pyramids at Giza. Desert safari to Bahariyya or Siwa is also possible. Table of Contents Understand Orientation Climate Get in By plane By train By bus Get around By bus Ankara Municipal Buses Ankara Non-Municipal Public Buses Ankara Metro Ankara Suburban Railway By taxi See Landmarks Museums Archaeological Remains and Landmarks Parks and Gardens Do Buy Eat Drink Sleep Stay safe Get out Ankara is the capital city of Turkey and the second largest city in the country after Istanbul. It is located at the heart of both Turkey and Central Anatolia. The population is around 3.5 million. The locals are generally helpful to tourists, and many young people can communicate in English. Although most people will try to speak English with you, it8217s a good idea to bring a Turkish phrasebook or dictionary. Ankara is the administrative center of Turkey and a huge university town such that most of its inhabitants consist of civil servants, students and academics. Apart from the old town in and around the citadel near Ulus, and unplanned shantytown neighbourhoods here and there built hastily by new immigrants from countryside in the last five decades, most of Ankara, which was a provincial town of 20,000 people in the early days of Republic, is a purpose-built capital due to its strategic location at the heart of the country, although the history of settlement in the vicinity is millenia old. While the biggest claim to fame of the town used to be the long-haired local breed of goats named after former name of the city (Angora), out of which high quality mohair textiles were produced, today the only place where you can spot them in city is the lawns on the side of a clover-leaf interchange on the highway westin the form of cute sculptures. Orientation The 8220downtown8221 area of this large city is around Kzlay Square (Kzlay Meydan) which has a fair number of transportation links to almost anywhere in the city. To the north, Kzlay Square is connected by a wide avenue to Shhiye (with a Hittite-style sculpture of a deer) and Ulus Squares, which are second most central parts of the city, located near the train station and the old part of the town around the citadel on the hill. Climate As any other part of the Anatolian highland, the winters are cold and usually snowy. Temperature is regularly below the freezing point during this season, but it rarely drops below -15 C. Thanks to the low levels of relative humidity, the hot and dry summers are more comfortable than coastal regions of Turkey. Summer nights are cool, though, so be sure to bring at least a cardigan with you to wear outdoors. Spring and autumn are the wettest seasons, but with an annual rainfall amount of 415 mm (i. e. a semi-arid climate), you are unlikely to get much wet during your trip to Ankara, anyway. Get in Ankara Esenboa International Airport (ESB) is located some 28 km northeast of the city. International flights are rather low in frequency and scope 8211 apart from Turkish Airlines (THY), only Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines and British Airways offer direct flights to their respective European hubs. Iran Air also has two weekly flights to Tehran. For other carriers flying into Turkey, a flight into Istanbul is necessary, followed by an air transfer to Ankara by Turkish Airlines or Anadolu Jet (a low cost brand of Turkish Airlines). EasyJet also offers discount flights to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gken Airport (SAW) and Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg in the summer months (until October 25th) and to and from Istanbul and London Luton airport all year round for fares as low as 22. The brand-new airport was opened in 2007. It features many more gates, a more orderly parking system, and in general, better traffic flow. The road connecting Ankara8217s airport to the ring road has also been fully renovated. Airport buses are operated by HAVA through the city center reaching Ulus (the historical center of the city, close to the museums and baths), and AT (where the intercity buses depart from to almost all the cities in Turkey). The price is 10 TL. Also, Ankara municipality offers public bus transports to and from the airport. The bus number is 442 and it stops on multiple locations including Ulus, Kzlay, Ati. By train Being in a central location in Turkey, Ankara is also the centre of the Turkish rail network and can be reached from many cities. The train trip from Istanbul to Ankara takes around 5 hours and 36 minutes and most (but not all) daytime services involve changing from one of the older express trains from Istanbul to Eskiehir onto the new high speed rail link to Ankara. Night trains, on the other hand, are direct from Istanbul with no transfers to high speed trains, however, these slightly older trains are still comfortable and up to Western European standards. Also, internet connection exists certain wagons of train. Tickets are cheaper than the bus and the journey is more comfortable. The overnight train to and from Istanbul is surprisingly affordable and saves the cost of a night8217s lodging. Reserve a cabin in advance if you prefer sleeping in a bed to sleeping in a seat. The train station is located north of Kzlay Square, which it is connected to by a wide number of public buses which stop at right in front of the station. About 10 minutes of walking away from the station, on the northern corner of Genlik Park, is a metro station which has services to a number of central locations in the city in addition to Kzlay. Some popular destinations include: City Duration Price Transfer Istanbul 5:36 TL 32 Eskisehir (High Speed Rail) Eskisehir 1:28 TL 20 Direct (High Speed Rail) Konya 1:30 TL 25 Direct (High Speed Rail) Bursa 4:00 TL 32 Eskisehir Konya 1:45 TL 22 Direct (High Speed Rail) Izmir 11:47 TL 27 Direct Adana 12:24 TL 22 Direct By bus If you are traveling from places other than Istanbul, you will find buses fast, inexpensive, and modern. Watch out for the drivers spraying your hands with lemon cologne if you do not like it. The buses terminate at the bus station (otogar) named AT (pronounced ush-tee and almost exclusively known as such locally Ankara ehirleraras Terminal letmeleri) standing for 8220Ankara Intercity Terminal8221. Most of the cities in Turkey have direct buses to the capital of Turkey, and buses are much faster than trains in Turkey. From Istanbul to Ankara, the bus trip takes around 5 hours and one way fare is about 35 TL. AT is connected to the Kzlay Square and a number of other central locations by a metro line. There are also free of charge shuttle buses to Kzlay (and a number of other locations) run by the AT administration. They depart from behind the main building. Get around The city has a dense public bus network, a two-line subway called Ankara Metrosu and a single line suburban railway called Ankara Banliy Treni. For tourists, Ankaras public transit system, particularly the public bus network, can be difficult to figure out, because maps are rare and all information is in Turkish. Nor is there any access provided for disabled travellers in any form of public transport. Buses and metros tend to be very crowded during rush hours, especially on Mondays and Fridays. If you know the city well, public transportation, especially the metro, is an ideal, easy, quick and cheap way to get around particularly for longer distances. For shorter distances taxis are an easy, quick and cheap way to get around. By bus There are two types of public buses in Ankara those run by the Ankara Municipality named Ankara Belediye Otobsleri (EGO) and those run by a private corporation named Ankara zel Halk Otobsleri (HO). You can differentiate these two types by their colors. EGO-run buses are white and blue while HO-run buses are blue. Both types of these public buses use the same bus network and bus stops. Ankara Municipal Buses The Ankara Municipal Buses, named Ankara Belediye Otobsleri (EGO), consists of an extensive and dense bus network, and is owned and operated by the Ankara Municipality. Payment system for municipal buses is based on multi-use magnetic cards which is also used for the metro starting from the smallest available which is the 1-unit card which costs 1.65 TL, 2-unit cards which cost 3.30 TL, 3-unit cards which cost 4.95 TL, 5-unit cards which cost 8.25 TL, 10-unit cards which cost 16.50 TL and 20-unit cards which cost 33.00 TL. A free transfer with the magnetic cards is possible within a duration of 45 minutes between the bus lines and metro lines. The magnetic cards cannot be purchased in buses and have to be purchased beforehand at kiosks and metro stations. Unfortunately, no stops and maps are displayed in the buses and bus stops nor announced by voice in the buses. Ankara Non-Municipal Public Buses The Ankara Non-Municipal Public Buses, Ankara zel Halk Otobsleri (HO), consists of an extensive and dense bus network, operated by a private corporation. Payment system for non-municipal buses is with cash. The ticket, which is only a one-way ticket, is purchased in buses at a cost of 2.00 TL. Unfortunately, no stops and maps are displayed in the buses and bus stops nor announced by voice in the buses. Ankara Metro The Ankara Metro, named Ankara Metrosu, consists of two metro lines, which are called Ankaray and Ankara Metro which is owned and operated by the Ankara Municipality. The west-east light-rail line named Ankaray and the north-south heavy-rail Ankara Metro line are both mostly underground lines and intersect at Kzlay station. The Ankaray line runs between AT (Ankara ehirleraras Terminal letmesi 8211 Ankara Intercity Bus Terminal) and Dikimevi. The line is 8.7 km long (8.0 underground and 0.7 km surface railway) and has 11 stations The Ankara Metro line, runs between Kzlay, the city center, to Batkent in the northwest. The line is 14.7 km long (6.5 km underground, 4.5 km surface, and 3.7 km elevated railway) and has 12 stations. Payment for the subway is based on multi-use magnetic cards which is also used for the municipal buses starting from the smallest available which is the 1-unit card which costs 1.65 TL, 2-unit cards which cost 3.30 TL, 3-unit cards which cost 4.95 TL, 5-unit cards which cost 8.25 TL, 10-unit cards which cost 16.50 TL and 20-unit cards which cost 33.00 TL. A free transfer with the magnetic cards is possible within a duration of 45 minutes between the bus lines and metro lines. The magnetic cards can be purchased at kiosks and metro stations. All stations are announced both on a display and by voice in the metros. Ankara Suburban Railway The Ankara Suburban Railway, named Ankara Banliy Treni, consists of a single suburban line running on the national rail network which is owned and operated by the Turkish State Railways. The suburban line, runs between Sincan in the west, through the city center, to Kaya in the east. The line is 37.0 km long (all of which is surface and elevated railway) and has 26 stations. Payment for the subway is done by cash at each train station for a one-way ticket which costs 1.70 TL and a return ticket which costs 3.00 TL . By taxi Taxis are numerous in Ankara and are recognizable by their yellow color and word Taksi on top of the car. All licensed taxis have the letter T in their license plates. The fare shown on the meter reads according to distance traveled. The ride will start at 2.20 TL, and the rate is 1.90 TL per kilometer. The rates for day and night are same. Tipping is not done. Occasionally, some taxi drivers will refuse to start the meter and try to negotiate a fixed price, especially with tourists. But most taxi drivers will start taximeters at all times. You should avoid these cabs and simply take another one as you will almost certainly end paying too much. Many taxi drivers, even though very few of them speak a foreign language, will understand your requested destination and instructions. Tell them then to put the taximeter on. Taxi drivers do normally work with the taximeter, so they will not be surprised at all when you ask them to put it on. Emphasize to the taxi driver that you will pay for the meter price before getting in. Always try to stop a taxi that is passing by on the road or find a legitimate taxi stop. If you are not familiar with the city and see that you are a tourist, the taxi driver may drive a detour in order to charge you more. Insist on going to the destination that you want, and have a map to show them your destination, to avoid a detour. Also beware that all taxis are required to have the designated license plate with the letter T apart from their yellow coloring. Be careful on what notes you hand them for payment some taxi drivers have tried to pretend that the 50 lira note that was handed was just a 5 lira note. Occasionally taxi drivers may actually also rip notes you give them, and tell you it is no good, in order to make you hand them a 50 lira note. So, make sure the notes are not ripped, and is actually the right one before you hand them over. Do not buy their quick-sell tricks and also do not allow them to round the price up to the higher denomination. See Antkabir, open daily, museum open daily except Mondays 8211 situated on an imposing hill in the Anittepe quarter of the city is the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatrk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, completed in 1953. A museum nearby displays a large collection of Atatrk memorabilia and paraphernalia Atakule Tower, ankaya. The highest structure of the city, with a shopping mall located under the tower. (Note: Atakule shopping mall itself, where very few shops are left open, will close in autumn as it will be transformed to a hotel.) Museums Ankara Ethnography Museum, Talat Paa Bulv, Ulus (opposite the Opera House). Museum of Anatolian Civilizations (Anadolu Medeniyetleri Mzesi) Gzc Sokak 2, Ulus (on the way to the citadel from Ulus) 90 312 324 31 60, fax: 90 312 311 28 39, (anadolumedeniyetlerimuzesi. gov. tr/) State Art and Sculpture Museum, (near the Ethnography Museum). Hosts galleries with temporary exhibitions as well as a permanent display of Turkish art from late 1800s up to today. Cer Modern. The recently-opened (Apr 2010) modern art museum of the city, Cer Modern is housed in the historic power plant building of Turkish Railways. Contemporary art. War of Independence Museum (Kurtulu Sava Mzesi), Ulus Square. This originally was the first building which hosted Turkish Republican Parliament, in which the War of Independence, fought in 1921-22 was directed from, as evidenced by photographs and other items in the display. Waxworks of former Turkish presidents are also on display. TCDD Open Air Steam Locomotive Museum. An open-air museum. engelhan Rahmi Ko Museum. Similar to Istanbul8217s industrial museum (of which engelhan is actually a part), the technological progress from 1850s onwards is on display in this museum housed in an old Ottoman caravanserai. Ankara Aviation Museum, Etimesgut (near highway to Istanbul). Various aircrafts, aviation items, missiles, and whatnot are in the exhibition, as well as a number of MiGs from the other side of Iron Curtain. METU Science and Technology Museum (on Middle East Technical University campus, on the highway to Eskiehir). Archaeological Remains and Landmarks Citadel Roman Theatre Temple of Augustus Roman Bath Parks and Gardens Ankara offers a good selection of cinemas both in Kavakldere and ankaya and several concert halls for classical music and opera. Many universities promote concerts and spring festivals but these are sometimes open to their students only. Folk and traditional music is very alive, from small bars and restaurants to big concert halls where you can find local stars like Musa Erolu. Depending on your interests, you can find trekking in local parks and in the surroundings, visiting the museums or hunting for the Ottoman or Seluk remains in the ancient castle. Upscale shopping centers like Armada along the Eskisehir road also offer cinemas and quality restaurants. Buy Ankara8217s Castle (Kale) has been a trade center for centuries, and its sellers of carpets, leather and antiquities are slowly moving upwards hoping to attract the tourist trade. It8217s still a delicious place for walking and browsing, and there are family firms where you can buy, for a price, excellent carpets and kilims. Walking down from the Castle you can walk through the covered market, an iron structure reminiscent of places like Les Halles in Paris, where you can buy very cheap and excellent produce. Ankara has a number of large shopping malls each of them offering fashion stores (including Zara, Mango, Harvey Nichols, Marks and Spencer ets.), technology retailers (like Media Markt, Electro World etc.) markets (like Carrefoursa, Tesco/Kipa etc.). Many of the new malls are located on the Eskiehir Yolu, including Armada, Cepa, Kentpark and Gordion. Eat Ankara is best known with its 8220dner kebap8221. In order to pick a good dner restaurant (there are many) you should take a look at the dner round. it should be rectangular and the cuts must be flat and separated. Like many other capitals, Ankara is where you can eat the best and the freshest fish of the country all around the year (not the cheapest, though). Around Sakarya str. there are various types of fish restaurants, from fast food to stylish ones and it can be a good opportunity to also try rak, which is known as a companion of fish. But fish restaurants abound in the city in Cankaya there are at least two excellent ones, 8220Akdeniz Akdeniz8221 and 8220Lazoli8221 featuring the first Mediterranean and the second Black Sea cuisine. 8220Ege8221, located close to Tunali street, is another excellent choice for fish and raki. The restaurant has also a variety of wines. If you want to listen good Turkish Classical Music while you eat and drink raki, then 8220Sudem8221 should be seen. It is located on Olgunlar Street. Besides many classic iskender kebab restaurants there are also many restaurant featuring the traditional cuisine of a specific city, catering to the community of more affluent immigrants: from the spicy Urfa to the variety of vegetables coming with Adana kebab. Uludag Kebabcisi on Denizciler Caddesi in Ulus has been around for about sixty years and is a top of the line restorant mainly serving Iskender kebap. Kebaps and South Anatolian cuisine Chinese and Thai Drink 8220Papsi8221 is a good choice to take a cold beer in a friendly atmosphere for years. It is located on Tunali Street. 8220Kitir8221 and newer 8220Random8221 are two other most popular bars, adjacent to Kugulu Park, also in Tunali. Corvus is on Bestekar Street offering Rock Music. There are many bars and places to drink on that street which is parallel to Bestekar. The Edge, Twister, Yer Fistigi (turkish music) are nice places. Locus Solus on Kennedy Street is a unique place with electronic, reggae or retro (offering different kinds of music) also for eating, though lately it changed a lot after it was turned over to a different operator and is no longer frequented by the more alternative crowd of Ankara. On the same street Mono is pleasant place to drink. 8220If8221 is where you can drink and dance till 4 a. m. There normally are rock cover bands and a huge crowd, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. 8220Sakarya8221 is full of the cheapest solutions. Do not go into SSK building, though. It is a huge and ugly building full of night club of a rather cheap taste. Among the best places in Sakarya, one should note 8220Net8221, which is a good choice not only take a glass of beer or raki, but also to eat. 8220Buyuk Ekspres8221 is also a nice old bar of the town. 8220Park Avenue8221 - in Konutkent district - is the new street for classy bars, cafes and night clubs. You can find Kitir also in 8220Park Avenue8221. Istanbul8217s fashionable night club Sortie has also opened in this avenue and is a nice place to drink any kind of drinks and listen to latest club mixes. Narquilla is a great place to have your nargile while drinking beer and enjoying nice food. Also, there are meyhanes (tavern) in which fixed menus are served with drinks and classic Turkish music played. There are bars and restaurants also in the historic core of Ankara, close to citadel. You definitely have to go and return by taxi though. Sleep The Sheraton Hotel, located in the Kavakldere district, is the most visible and glitzy hotel in Ankara (and has the prices to prove it). Around the corner from the Sheraton lies the Hilton, which is a bit past its prime but still a very acceptable place to stay. The Radisson (located in Ulus, near the train station), the Swissotel (located on an obscure back alley in in ankaya) and the Ramada (in Kavakldere, on fashionable Tunal Hilmi street) are recent entrants, and offer very new-looking rooms that are nevertheless a tad smaller than those at the Sheraton or Hilton. Independent hotels of note include the King Hotel (behind the Parliament, near the American Embassy), and Hotel Midas and Hotel Gold (both north of Kavaklidere on Tunus Caddesi). Angora House in the Citadel district is a charming boutique hotel in an Ottoman era house. In terms of budget accommodation, a number of cheap hotels can be found along Sanayi Caddesi, just north of Ulus Meydan: a double (en suite) at such hotels lists for 40-80YTL per night. Note that rates are usually negotiable and may or may not include breakfast. Crowne Plaza Ankara Hotel Mevlana Bulvar No: 2, 06330, Akkpr, (cpankara. tr/enindex. php) Stay safe Ankara is probably one of the safest big cities you will ever visit. Most people, including single female travellers, would very rarely encounter problems walking along the streets alone at night. Street crime is extremely rare, even late at night. However, 8220little crime8221 does not mean 8220no crime8221, and common sense should still be applied as anywhere in the world. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, however, especially in crowded areas. Therefore, one should always take care of their belongings and keep bags closed. The biggest danger for travellers is the road traffic, because there is little respect for pedestrians. Every road should be crossed carefully and very quickly. Even if pedestrian traffic lights show green, it is absolutely essential to have a watchful eye. At crosswalks definately look out before crossing the street. Another danger for pedestrians, are the sidewalks because they are often in a very poor condition. Because of the poor or irregular renovation of sidewalks, many of them have loose paving stones and holes in the asphalt. The risk of tripping and hurting oneself should not be underestimated. Ankara Police Department has a 8220tourism police8221 section with staff multilingual in English, German, French, and Arabic. Tourism Police (Turizm Polisi) Emniyet Turizm ube Mdrl, skitler, 90 312 384-06-06, 384-08-11/6350-6353, fax: 90 312 342-22-27, Get out Beypazar to northwest is famous with its traditional houses, mineral water, bazaar, and of course bakery which is called Beypazari Kurusu. It is a quite a lot for a small Anatolian town which make them tourism attraction of the area. You must spare a weekend. You will not regret it. Gordion is one of the most important ancient cities in Turkey and is 96 km west from Ankara in Yassihoyuk, near Polatl off the highway to Eskiehir. The city had been home for Hittites, Phyrigians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans since 3000 B. C. The remnants of the city are displayed in Gordion Museum and Anatolian Civilizations Museum in Ulus. Kzlcahamam to north is a town with many thermal springs, surrounded by forestsa welcome retreat from the arid landscapes around Ankara. Boazkale to northeast is the hub for visiting ancient Hattua, the capital of Hittites. Ankara is a reasonably convenient place to base yourself if you want to travel around Anatolia, Cappadocia or the Black Sea coast and a growing number of tour operators and related service industries are catering to tourists. There is accommodation here at all levels, with prices pegged below those of Istanbul or the south coast, and the new bus station (AT) is probably the most useful transport hub in Turkey with services to just about anywhere that8217s feasible (Lebanon is only 16 hours away, if you8217re feeling adventurous). Table of Contents History Centenary 2013 Geography Time People Climate Visitor Centre By plane By train By bus By car By bus By bike By car Town Centre City area 8211 North of Lake Burley Griffin Parliamentary zone 8211 South of Lake Burley Griffin In the suburbs City Scenery Historic buildings Events Country ACT Do Learn Markets Shopping Centres Boutique Specialty Eat Budget Mid-range Splurge Drink Sleep Budget Mid-range Splurge Bed and Breakfast Serviced apartments Stay safe Contact Embassies Get out Canberra is the purpose built capital city of Australia, located in the Australian Capital Territory in the south-east of New South Wales. It is a planned city, with national monuments, museums, and galleries all built around large man-made lakes. A bush capital 8211 Canberra is also a great place to enjoy the outdoors, with excellent cycling, gardens, parks, bushwalking and nature reserves. History Canberra was established in 1913 as the capital for the newly federated Australian nation 8211 this brought the rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne for national capital status to an end. The Australian Capital Territory was excised from New South Wales, and put under the control of the federal government. The artificial creation of the city was not without critics 8211 cynics have said that it was a 8220waste of a good sheep pasture8221. Canberra is a highly planned city, its primary design conceived by the American architect Walter Burley Griffin, built on the shores of an artificial lake (Lake Burley Griffin). Populated at first largely by politicians and public servants, it took time to develop its own identity and culture. Extensive building of national facilities and a concerted effort to develop public institutions in the city have made it an interesting destination. Centenary 2013 Canberra is making big plans for its centenary in 2013, so look for opportunities to visit local celebrations and landmark events when planning a trip in 2013. See . Geography Lake Burley Griffin divides central Canberra. The central shopping and commercial area, known as 8220Civic8221, on the north side and the parliamentary triangle and embassy area is on the south side. National institutions are likewise divided, examples being the National Museum of Australia and the Australian War Memorial on the north side and the National Library and National Gallery of Australia on the south side. There are suburbs surrounding central Canberra, and also suburbs surrounding several outlying town centres. These town centres are, Belconnen and Gungahlin to the north, and Tuggeranong and Woden to the south. The ACT also has surrounding towns, such as Murrumbateman, which boasts a strong cool climate wine selection. The historic village of Hall is also on the outskirts of Canberra. It has a population of about 350,000 people (400,000 including adjoining Queanbeyan). Australian Capital Territory follows the same time as New South Wales that surrounds it. It is 10 hours ahead of GMT (UTC10) and 11 hours ahead (UTC11) during daylight saving (first Sunday in October and ends the first Sunday in April). People Many people who live in Canberra are not originally from Canberra, having usually moved there to study or take up employment with the Australian Government. A common pattern is that people from other parts of Australia move to Canberra, study or work for a few years and then return to their place of origin or move on to elsewhere. As this means a constant influx of new arrivals to Canberra, you should not be reluctant to ask for directions and the like from locals 8211 they are more than used to it and usually only too happy to help. Canberrans on the whole are easygoing, friendly and tolerant people who have the highest levels of education and income in Australia. Ethnically, Canberra8217s population is more diverse than most regional areas of Australia, but nowhere near as culturally and linguistically varied as Sydney and Melbourne. Climate Canberra can get just as hot as anywhere else in Australia during the summer months (November-March), with temperatures above 30C a frequent occurrence from December through to March, although with low humidity. It can get bitterly cold during the winter months (June-August) owing to its altitude and proximity to the Snowy Mountains. Overnight temperatures in winter frequently drop below zero and tend to hover slightly above 10C during the day. However, it is usually a clear, brisk cold, and rarely a dull, damp cold. It almost never snows in Canberra, because the below freezing temperatures (at night) coincide with clear skies. Canberra is less humid than Australian coastal cities. The hottest days are often mitigated by welcome, cooling, mountain breezes, particularly towards the end of the day, and the temperature drops overnight. Visitor Centre The comprehensive visitor centre is on Northbourne Avenue, on the main road from Sydney into Canberra 61 2 6205-0044. By plane Canberra International Airport (), is well served by flights from other Australian capital cities. The highest capacity is the route to Melbourne, but smaller planes fly almost hourly to Sydney during the day. This reflects the fact that a flight to Canberra saves only an hour or so end-to-end on driving from Sydney and for those who are not coming from an area close to Sydney Airport, air travel offers only a marginal time saving. The following airlines fly to Canberra daily: Virgin Australia flies to and from Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Townsville, Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart. Qantas flies to and from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Darwin and Perth. Tiger Airways flies to and from Melbourne. Brindabella Airlines flies to and from Newcastle, and Albury. Flying time is 50 minutes from Sydney, 1 hour from Melbourne, 2 hours from Brisbane and Adelaide, and 4 hours from Perth. There are currently no scheduled commercial international flights. International visitors would normally fly to Sydney or Melbourne and transfer. Sydney is closest international gateway to Canberra, and there are bus services to Canberra non-stop and direct from Sydney International Terminal. A shuttle runs between Canberra airport and the bus interchange in Civic every half an hour weekdays, and every hour on weekends for 9. Alternatively, ACTION buses service Brindabella Business Park, which is immediately adjacent to the airport with direct services from there to Belconnen via Civic. The service is somewhat erratic, so best to check the timetable. Tickets are only 3, including a transfer. Taxis are available in front of the terminal towards the Qantas end of the terminal for around 25 to Civic. It is possible to use Canberra8217s offroad cycleway network to access the airport. Follow the cycleway along the north side of the lake. A section of cycleway was recently completed alongside the Molonglo River underneath the Monaro Highway Bridge which veers left and passes underneath the Pialligo Avenue bridges. Turn right, cross the creek (beware of the gravel surface at this point), cross over Fairbairn Avenue, use the airport service road through the airport precinct, and make your way to the terminal. There is a long stay and short stay car park, both within walking distance of the terminal. Expect to pay around 17 per day to park at the long stay. The long stay is cheaper than the short stay only if you park for a day or more. Canberra airport terminals are new and have aerobridges to access all jet flights. There are remarkably few facilities in the terminals for a modern airport of this size: a cafe outside security, and a bar and cafe inside, serving overpriced drinks and snacks. There is an ATM in the arrivals hall. Bring a good book if you have any amount of time to spend here. By train NSW Countrylink runs services from Sydney to Canberra twice a day. The trip takes just over 4 hours, which is slower than a bus or driving, but the train takes a very scenic route through the Southern Highlands and the Molongolo Gorge, compared to an unexciting freeway journey by road. The train arrives in Kingston on the south side of Canberra, a pleasant 25-30 minute walk from the closest of the attractions on the south side of Lake Burley Griffin. To get to Civic (the Canberra CBD) on the northern side of the lake, however, will require further transport, ACTION buses service the station to Civic every 15 minutes on weekdays (routes 200 and 80) and less frequently on weekends (route 980). Cash fares on ACTION bus services cost 4, but substantial discounts are available to holders of MyWay cards. Taxis meet each train arrival. On some days it is possible to do a day trip by train from Sydney and get 5-6 hours to spend in Canberra. Bicycles must be boxed and checked as luggage on CountryLink services and cost 12.10 per bicycle, and there is room for only three on any train. The economy train fare is 56 in peak season (the Christmas/New Year period and school holidays) and 40 in off-peak, discounts may be available depending on the day or for advance purchase. If you are enthusiastic about train travel, are desperate to save money, and you are travelling from Sydney and wish to see Goulburn on the way the Cityrail train to Goulburn costs 7.80, and the Countrylink train from Goulburn to Canberra costs as little as 11. Countrylink also runs a once-daily train/bus between Melbourne and Canberra: the bus runs from the centre of Canberra (City Bus Interchange) via the Barton Highway, Burley Griffin Way and the Olympic Highway to the town of Cootamundra, where travellers switch to the XPT (Countrylink Train) to Melbourne8217s Southern Cross Station tickets cost 91 in off-peak and 107 in peak season. V/Line runs a competing train/bus service between Melbourne and Canberra: their bus runs from the Jolimont Centre coach terminal (across the road from the City Bus Interchange). This service is called Canberra Link. Services run relatively directly via the Barton and Hume Highways. In the southbound direction a change of coach is required at Albury where another road coach will take you to Seymour. At Seymour a V/Line train will take you through to Melbourne8217s Southern Cross Station. In the northbound direction, V/Line can elect to accommodate you on the XPT (Countrylink Train) between Melbourne and Albury using a V/Line fare (limited seats are available for V/Line passengers) on weekends, but on Weekdays they use their own trains between Melbourne and Seymour, with a connecting road coach Seymour to Albury, and another road coach from Albury to Canberra. Tickets cost 46. V/Line also run a Canberra service to connect with their Melbourne train at Bairnsdale. This service is called Capital Link. Services run twice a week (three times a week during Victorian school holidays). At Bairnsdale a road coach will take you via Orbost, Cann River and Cooma to Canberra, with stops at Canberra Railway Station (Kingston) and the Jolimont Centre (across the road from the City Bus Interchange). Tickets on this service also cost 46. By bus All coaches to Canberra terminate at the Jolimont Centre, in the city centre and immediately across the road from the Canberra local bus (ACTION) interchange. Murrays. tel 132251, Murrays operate up to 10 daily express services between Sydney (Central Station) and Canberra with extra services on peak days. They are the main operator on this route. Service takes just over 3 h. They always have 15 fares available on the web, for the early or late services and 18 for some others. Popular services or last-minute booking is around 35. The service is non-stop (with some services via Sydney International Airport). Murrays also run a daily service from Canberra to Wollongong and Canberra to Narooma. The coaches are more cramped than the trains. Seats are unassigned, so it helps to be there early and not to have luggage to go under the bus, as that lets you get on first and secure your window seat. Buses often fill to capacity, and can experience delays due to peak traffic into and out of Sydney, although the non-stop nature means that they have been known to run 10-15 minutes early on a good run. Greyhound Pioneer. tel 131499, operate a bus service competing with Murray8217s. Fares seem to be either 15 or 36, so you might get lucky and get a cheap ride. Note that it may not be possible to get the 15 fares when booking a return journey if so, you probably need to book each leg separately. They also offer a direct service to Melbourne. Greyhound8217s coach services usually include video entertainment. The Greyhound services have stops, which not only makes the service slower but also means you can8217t take advantage of good traffic conditions to make up 15 minutes or so on a good traffic day. NSW Countrylink also run daily buses to and from Eden on the South Coast, via Bega and Cooma. V/Line. tel 136196. V/Line have two services which connect Canberra to Melbourne. The fastest option is a bus from Canberra to Seymour with a connecting train to Melbourne. This takes around 8 hours. The more scenic option is to travel to Melbourne via Cooma, Sale and Bairnsdale. Likewise, this service connects with a train at Bairnsdale allowing you to continue your journey southwest towards Melbourne. By car The drive from Sydney to Canberra is 290 km and takes around three and a half hours from the Sydney CBD, less from outer suburbs in Sydney. The road is dual-carriageway, mostly freeway-like conditions from the Harbour Bridge all the way to Canberra, mostly with a 110km/h speed limit, via the M5 Motorway, Hume and Federal Highways. There are three sets of on-road services located on the Hume Highway between Sydney and the turn-off to the Federal Highway to Canberra, as well as many well-maintained and often scenic rest stops with toilets and picnic tables ideal for a picnic. Take drinks, as the rest areas have no water, or tank water which is not recommended for drinking. A third option which will enable you to see more of the countryside is to stop at one of the small towns in the Southern Highlands on the way which will have a cafe or two. Drivers should be aware that it is rare to make the entire trip between Canberra and Sydney without at least one police speed trap. The city of Goulburn, on the way to Canberra, is the training centre for New South Wales police officers and often send new recruits to run speed checks on the freeway. There are also several fixed speed traps, all of which are signposted in advance. The drive from Melbourne to Canberra is 650 km and takes roughly eight hours on the Hume and Barton Highways, again mostly on dual-carriageway roads. By bus ACTION buses cover the majority of Canberra. As of July 2010, fares are 4 for adults and 2 for concessions (have your student or concession card ready to show the driver for international students, it8217s always good to have an ISIC Card because many drivers 8212 although not strictly supposed to 8212 will accept these). There are also all-day, weekly monthly and 10-ride-faresaver tickets available. An off-peak all-day ticket costs 4.60 and is valid for travel on weekdays between 9AM amp 4.30PM and after 6PM, as well as all day on weekends and holidays. 10 ride faresavers offer a significant discount on single fares at 9.50 for students (school term weekdays only) 12.60 concession and 25.20 for adults. There has been increasing criticism of ACTION, as services have decreased in number and prices have increased. Some residents will tell you not to use ACTION services. During peak hours, ACTION buses, especially inter-town routes, can be extremely crowded. However, for those dependent on public transport there is no other option within Canberra. Note that the inter-town services are very frequent and reliable, especially during peak hour. Tips for riding the buses: If you need to change buses to get somewhere, ask for a transfer ticket it8217ll let you on to as many buses as you need within 90 minutes of getting on the first bus. Tell the driver where you need to get to (and how quickly if that8217s important) and ask them what your options are. Some buses snake through the suburbs and can take a while to cover a relatively short distance while others may be more direct or express services. To travel between the interchanges (i. e. Belconnen, Civic, Woden and Tuggeranong) catch any bus in the 300 series (300, 312, 313, 314, 315, 318 or 319) as these are far quicker then other bus with your intended location as its destination. Note that this service runs as Route 900 on Weekends and Public Holidays. Buses do not operate between midnight and 6AM, and after 7PM on Sundays and public holidays. There is however a 8216flexibus8217 or 8216nightrider8217 system with certain routes running at these times 8212 for a flat fare of 10 8212 that operates on weekends in early summer, but not throughout the year. Many buses have a push-bike rack on the front, and the passenger can put the bike there to get to another bike-friendly destination. By bike Bicycles are a practical way to get around Canberra while visiting, and will get you to most attractions using a well developed network of off-road cycle paths. Functional bicycles can be bought cheaply from both Mitchell and Mugga Lane. expect to spend around 30 and bring an air pump and puncture repair kit. Canberra also has generally well developed on-road cycle facilities but the on-road cycle lanes do sometimes end and start in utterly inexplicable places. The grade can be a little steep as away from central Canberra is fairly hilly, but all the attractions around the lake are accessible on fairly flat paths. Pedal Power has a list of commuter and other routes. Bicycles are also permitted on footpaths in the ACT (except when passing shops during trading hours). There are bike racks to lock your bike up at most shopping centres and points of interest. Bike helmets are compulsory. The intertown buses will carry two bikes on bike racks on the front of the buses. The bike racks have clips, so no additional equipment is necessary. Only 208243 tyres or larger bikes are carried. There is no charge for using the bike rack. Kids must be accompanied by adults, and child seats and other accessories must be removed from the bike. A bicycle path map bought from a visitor information, petrol station or newsagent also shows bike paths and on-road cycle lanes. The map is also online at the ACT Department of Planning . By car Drivers are often confused by the many signs around Canberra that direct you to the 8220Town Centre8221. The unanswered question that the sign poses, is 8220Which Town8221. The city centre, also known as 8220Civic8221, is its own centre, but the other Canberra 8220towns8221 are Belconnen and Gungahlin (to the north of the lake), and Woden, Weston Creek and Tuggeranong (to the south). Each of these towns has its own suburbs. You will see signs directing you to each of these towns, but once you get closer the sign will simply direct you to the 8220town centre8221. You need to know which town you are in for the sign to make sense. Most attractions in Canberra provide parking, usually at no extra cost, and Canberra roads are generally of excellent quality and relatively uncongested. The default speed limit on all roads in the ACT is 50km/h, unless signposted otherwise. Major roads in the ACT will have 60-100km/h speed limits in 10km/h intervals. There is little rhyme or reason regarding how a speed limit is set in the ACT, with similar roads having vastly different speed limits. In some situations, the same road will have a different speed limit for traffic heading in oposite directions. Speed limit signs within the ACT tend to be spiradic and intermittently placed. Several major limited access roads like the Tuggeranong Parkway (between the City and the town centres of Woden, Weston Creek and Tuggeranong) are 100km/h, though others are 80-90km/h. The ACT also has the highest amount of speed cameras per capita in Australia. Fixed speed cameras have plenty of warning signs in advance via overt signage. Red light/speed cameras have much smaller warning signs, usually not coupled with a sign reminding of the speed limit. If in doubt, slow to 50km/h. Mobile speed camera vans operate on major roads in the ACT. These may be overtly or covertly parked, and may be identified by a large white sign on the roof. Motorists should watch out for 40km/h school zones which in Canberra are active throughout the school day (unlike surrounding New South Wales where they only operate for an hour or two at the beginning and end of the school day). School zones are rigorously policed. The main shopping and commercial area of Canberra is known as Civic, but you will never see a signpost to Civic. It is signposted as 8220City8221. Take change for parking meters in Civic if you want to park on the streets, or in the government parking lots. Parking in the CBD can be difficult on weekdays, due to development of carparks and encouragement to take public transport. There are several multi-level carparks near the Canberra Centre with ticket pay-stations and pay-booths. Note that all day parking in the Canberra Centre is cheaper on the rooftop level. You will need to collect a parking entry ticket from the first boom gate and then feed the ticket into the second boom gate as you enter the rooftop level. Fixed speed traps in Canberra are highly visible with multiple signs informing motorists that they are approaching a speed trap. However, mobile police speed traps are set up in large, highly visible white vans with police signage informing motorists that their speed has been checked. Many red light cameras double as speed cameras regardless of whether a red light infringement has occurred. The signage for these speed cameras is substantially less visible than the signage for standard speed cameras. Petrol/fuel. There are remarkably few fuel stations on the main roads. Instead they tend to be located near local shops, off the main roads. Look for the small blue fuel pump signs pointing off the main roads. Start looking well before you run too low. There are several petrol stations just east of Northbourne Avenue at Civic. In the suburbs of Tuggeranong the 8220Monaro Highway8221 is signposted as a destination on numerous signs for the three roads that head east-west. The Monaro Highway is actually a north-south road to east of Tuggeranong Town and the intended meaning is that the road is an appropriate route to the Monaro Highway. City area 8211 North of Lake Burley Griffin Australian War Memorial, Treloar Crescent (top of ANZAC Parade, at the other end from Parliament House), ph 61 2 6243-4211 or 61 2 6243-4598 (for recorded information), fax 61 2 6243 4325. Daily 10AM-5PM. Not just a memorial, this is one of Australia8217s premier museums, covering Australian military history from Federation to the present day and including fascinating exhibits of equipment, memorabilia and battle dioramas. You could easily spend a full day here (it has a caf, or bring a picnic lunch if the weather is nice and sit on the lawns at the front). Anzac Parade, leading up to the War Memorial has a number of memorials to different wars and those involved in wars. Free entry, allow 4-7 hours. Canberra Museum and Gallery Cnr London Circuit amp Civic Square, Civic, (museumsandgalleries. act. gov. au/cmag/index. html) Price: Free National Capital Exhibition, Barine Dr ( in Commonwealth Park (off Commonwealth Avenue)). open 9-5 Mon-Fri, 10-4 Sat-Sun. See an exhibition about the original Burley Griffin Plan for Canberra and how the city was planned and built. Good views over Lake Burley Griffin out to the museums on the Lake8217s south shore. حر. National Film amp Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton, ph 61 6248 2000. A unique collection of Australian sound and film recordings of which a small selection showing iconic moments in Australia8217s cultural history is explored in this museum. National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, ph 61 2 6208-5000, fax 61 2 6208-5099. This controversial museum has lots of interactive exhibits and groups items by concept rather than era. Free admission except for special exhibits. Allow 2-7 hours. Australian National Botanic Gardens. Located at the base of Black Mountain in Acton, the ANBG has the largest collection of Australian native flora in the country. It also has some interesting water dragons that live in the water features around the gardens. A delightful place for a picnic, try to grab some food from the city centre first to take with you for lunch. If you are there during summer, call and ask about the jazz evenings. These are held on the weekend and many families attend with evening picnic and champagne in tow, to chill out to the sounds of jazz in the balmy evening temperatures. Entry is free, however parking is 1.40/hr or 7 all day at ticket machines, with proceeds going towards the gardens. Parliamentary zone 8211 South of Lake Burley Griffin High Court of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes. 9:45-4:30 Mon-Fri (not open weekends or public holidays). This vast building is the home of Australia8217s highest court and contained a vast lobby and three main courtrooms that are open to the public. Tours are available, though restricted when the court is sitting. There is a cafeteria in the building as well. National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place, Parkes, ph 61 2 6240-6502. 10AM5PM. Located by Lake Burley Griffin, this modern structure is one of the country8217s largest art galleries. It has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures collected from Australia and the rest of the world and has excellent Aboriginal artwork. A nice gift store and a large bookstore on the ground level. Free except for special exhibits. The Gallery offers free public one-hour tours: Australian and International art at 11AM and 2PM daily, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at 11AM on Thursdays and Sundays. Allow at least half a day and possibly more. National Library of Australia, King ph 61 2 6262-1111, fax 61 2 6257-1703. The library is primarily a research centre, but normally has one exhibition showing parts of the collection. Also notable for its neo-classical architecture. National Portrait Gallery King Edward Terrace, Parkes (adjacent to High Court and National Gallery of Australia) 61 2 6102-7000, (portrait. gov. au) Price: free except for major exhibitions Old Parliament House (featuring the Museum of Australian Democracy), King George Terrace, Parkes ph 61 2 6270-8222, fax 61 2 6270-8111. The headquarters of Australian government from the 1920s to 1988, this building is a must for political and/or historical junkies. The building gives a real feel of what it was like when it was in use and has in the past regularly featured rotating exhibitions on the controversies and scandals that rocked Australian politics. It is now a permanent museum. Most of the main rooms 8211 the Prime Minister8217s office, the Cabinet Room, the various party rooms, the two houses 8211 are open to visitors, as are many smaller rooms like the whips8217 offices and the broadcasting area. There are also historical photos of Canberra as it used to be, including the times prior to the creation of the artificial lake that show Canberra under snow during winter (the lake warmed up the city and snow falls rarely on the city now). The gift store has decent souvenirs. Parking is free, admission is A2 for adults, A1 concession. Allow 2-3 hours. Parliament House of Australia, Capital Hill (access from Commonwealth Avenue), ph 61 2 6277-5399 or 61 2 6277-2727 (for recorded information). The seat of Australia8217s federal government and legislature and a remarkable piece of modern architecture. Tours are available (you must pass through a security check) or when Parliament is sitting you are allowed to view proceedings in the public gallery (another security check is required for this, and expect queues and long waits around 2PM on sitting days for 8220Question Time8221 in the House of Representatives. The Senate is likely to be less busy but less exciting.) Allow 2-3 hours. Questacon 8211 The National Science and Technology Centre, King Edward Terrace, Parkes, ph 61 2 6270-2800 or 1800 020 603 (free call, recorded information). 9AM-5PM. Questacon is an interactive museum of science with exhibits illustrating scientific ideas from the principles of physics to the motion of an earthquake. Great for kids and excellent science books can be picked up here. (Oct 06) 15.50 adults, 10.50 concessions, 9 children, and 46 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children. Allow at least half a day. In the suburbs Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Leverrier Crescent, Bruce, 61 2 6214-1111, fax: 61 2 6251-2680, (ausport. gov. au/ais/visit/tours) Price: 15 National Dinosaur Museum Cnr Gold Creek Road and Barton Highway, Gold Creek Village, Nicholls (Located about 13km north of the City via the Barton Hwy) 61 2 6230-2655, fax: 61 2 6230 2357, (nationaldinosaurmuseum. au/) Price: Adults 11.50, children 8.50, concession 9.50, senior 8.50, family 38.00 (2 adults 2 children or 1 adult 3 children, extra children 4.00) Cockington Green 11 Gold Creek Road, Gold Creek Village, Nicholls (Located about 13km north of the City via the Barton Hwy) 61 2 6230 2273, fax: 61 2 6230 2490, (cockingtongreen. au/) Price: Adults 17.50 Children 9.50 Family 49 Seniors 12.50 Canberra Reptile Sanctuary O (Located about 13km north of City via the Barton Hwy) 61 2 6253-8533, (canberrareptilesanctuary. org. au/) Price: Adults 7.50, children 6, concession 7, family tickets (2 adults amp 3 or more children) 29, di scounts available for group bookings Embassies. As the national capital, Canberra hosts the embassies of most countries, listed below in Embassies. Most of the embassies are built in an architectural style typical of that particular country. In Yarralumla (the closest embassy district to the city), the Embassy of China, Embassy of Papua New Guinea and. The Royal Thai Embassy are particularly worth a look. The Embassy of the United States of America is also worth a drive past, being the oldest embassy in Canberra. It is best to have a car or bicycle for touring so you can stop and have a look around. Government House (Yarralumla) viewing platform off Lady Denman Drive, Yarralumla, (gg. gov. au/content. php/page/id/39/title/government-house) Royal Australian Mint 61 2 6202-6999, fax: 61 2 6202 6953, (ramint. gov. au/) Price: Free The Lodge Adelaide Avenue, Deakin, City Scenery Black Mountain Tower (Telstra Tower) Black Mountain Drive, Acton (5 km from the city centre) 61 2 6219-6111, fax: 61 2 6257-6600, Price: 7.50 adult, 3 aged pensioner, 3 child 4-16 yrs, free for children under 4 years a family pass (2 adults, 2 children) costs 17. Other Lookouts 8211 Canberra is surrounded by hills and there are plenty of other great vantage points to view the city. Many of these you can also drive to the top. The best vantage points are: Mount Ainslie (off Fairbairn Avenue, Campbell/Forrest) 8211 vehicular access available Red Hill (off Melbourne Avenue, Deakin/Forrest) 8211 vehicular access available Mount Majura (access via Antill St in Watson, also service road off Majura Road) 8211 no vehicular access, walking tracks only. Mount Taylor (access via Waldock St, Chifley) 8211 partial vehicular access to reach the top you will need to walk. Mount Pleasant (via General Bridges Drive, Duntroon) 8211 vehicular access available between 7AM and 7PM. Kangaroos in the wild Campbell Park Offices, Northcott Drive (north), Campbell (off Fairbairn Avenue (between the Australian War Memorial and the airport, at the roundabout go the opposite direction from the Australian Defence Force Academy along what appears to be a road into the bush (forest). After about 250m, a massive building will appear. This office complex is used by the Department of Defence. Veering left (up-hill) there will be occasional free parking spaces on weekdays veering right (down-hill) there is an extensive, free car park.) Price: free Historic buildings Blundell (nationalcapital. gov. au/index. phpoptioncomcontentampviewarticleampid234ampItemid197) Price: 7 adults 5 concession 15 family Calthorpe 24 Mugga Way, Red Hill, (museumsandgalleries. act. gov. au/calthorpes/index. html) Price: 7 Adult 5 Concession 15 Family. Note a three site pass covers here, Lanyon (in Tharwa, see below) and Mugga Mugga in Symanston (see the website). Events Floriade festival of flowers, a yearl y event held in spring (September-October), not to be missed. Tulips are the main feature but many other colourful flowers and floral displays are featured. There are also sculptures, garden stalls, makeshift restaurants, activities, live music by local performers and sometimes there is even a gnome or scarecrow festival where children (and some adults) paint gnomes or make scarecrows and enter a competition to choose the best. Great for a photo opportunity Summernats is a festival of modified cars, car cruising, burnouts, etc, which takes place first thing in the new year. If you are not into this culture, this is a good time not to be in Canberra, as even the most civilised hotels are overtaken by drunken 8216nats8217. The Multicultural Festival (multiculturalfestival. au) Thai Food amp Cultural Festival 8211 once a year 8211 annual festival held in September at. The Festival is a bonus for floriade visitors and Canberrans alike. With 2 outdoor stages showing all-day live music and performances plus Thai food amp beer, 8220made-in-Thailand8221 quality products, and trivia amp 8220Wishing Tree8221 raffles with over 1,000 prizes. Sun 25 Sep 2011 starting 11 am. It8217s the Royal Thai Embassy8217s biggest event of the year. Do not miss this The Philippines, Sri Lanka and some other embassies do similar events sometimes. Diplomatic Charity Bazaar 8211 held occasionally. Great place to buy original things specific to various countries, sold by staff of the embassies. The National Folk Festival 8211 held every Easter over 5 days, featuring local, national and international folk musicians, dancers and craftspeople. The Canberra show held in February featuring shows, amusement park rides and agricultural competitions. Has most of the features of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, but on a smaller scale with less crowds. Check out the Canberra Times newspaper on Saturday for upcoming events. Country ACT The majority of the Australian Capital Territory is actually not Canberra city and there is a large area of national park. While most people don8217t spend any time outside of the city there is plenty to do if you want to get away from the museums and attractions for a while. Tharwa Village (via Tharwa Drive, accessible from the Monaro Highway south of Canberra or at the end of the Tuggeranong Parkway) Lanyon Homested Lanyon Drive, (museumsandgalleries. act. gov. au/lanyon/) Price: 7 Adult 5 Concession 15 Family Namadgi National Park (via Tharwa Road and Naas Road (some parts accesible via Weston Creek, Cotter Dam Road and Brindabella Road further north)) (tams. act. gov. au/play/parks, conservationandlands/parksreservesandopenplaces/nationalparks/namadginationalpark) Price: Free (charges apply for camping) Do Explore Lake Burley Griffin 8211 on or off the water. You can: Hire a paddle boat, canoe or kayak and mess around on Lake Burley Griffin. Hire is available from: Lake Burley Griffin Boat Hire, Acton Jetty Acton. ph 61 2 6249-6861. (Note: The lake may be closed when algae blooms are significant) Row8217n8217Ride, Canberrra Avenue, Fyshwick. ph 0410 547 838, Alternatively, take a scenic cruise on the lake with Lake Burley Griffin Cruises. Phone 0419 418 846. If you8217re up for some exercise, you can walk, cycle or skate around Lake Burley Griffin (approx. 25km). Hire is available from: Capital Bicycle Hire. which rents high quality mountain bikes and runs tours around Canberra8217s extensive bicycle path network and off-road trail system. Phone 0412 547 387. Mr Spokes Bike Hire Drive, Acton. ph 61 2 6257-1188. (mrspokes. au) Ride Canberra8217s Mountain Bike Trails: Canberra offers a large number of Mountain Biking locations around Canberra, many of which are considered some of the best in Australia. See Canberra Off Road Cyclists (CORC ) for locations. Canberra is also home to the largest 24 hour Mountain Bike Race in the world (Scott 24hr ), held in early October each year. Explore Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is about a 40 minute drive south of Canberra via Tuggeranong Parkway and Tharwa Drive. You can take Ranger-guided walks or have fun with the hands on displays such as the interactive computer program on Tidbinbilla8217s bird species and look at the live animal displays. The gift shop sells an interesting range of clothes, toys, books, cards and souvenirs. Coffee and light refreshments are also available. Go tobogganing in Corin Forest Tourist Drive 5, 61 2 6235-7333, (corin. au/) Price: Free entry, rides from 7, all day pass 35 See the stars and planets at Mount Stromlo Observatory. Cotter road, Weston Creek. ph 61 2 6125-0230. Mount Stromlo is Australia8217s premier astronomical observatory. Badly damaged in 2003 bushfires, the partially rebuilt observatory reopened in October 2004. They run a Saturday night star gazing event for the public, call 61 2 6125-0232. The site8217s damaged buildings and equipment remain and may be fascinating for tourists. Go wine tasting in the Wineries around Canberra (most are outside of the ACT but all very close to Canberra). They are described as cool climate wines and some are very well known and regarded. Try Jeir Creek, Gallagher, Clonakilla and Lark Hill, just to name a few. There are 821733 wineries within 35 minutes of Canberra8217. Visit the Canberra Wineries website for more information . Take a scenic drive into the southern ACT 8211 recommended by locals: Head south to Tharwa, and then take the road to Adaminaby. The road is very good for all of what I describe, any car can go on it, but further south than what I describe requires a 4WD. Take the road out of Tharwa, and remain on the road for about 10km. Take the signed road to Honey Suckle Creek. Very important historical site, this is where the signals from the Apollo 11 space landing were received, and then beamed around the world. Also a nice drive, and a very good camp ground. On the same road, not far off the Adaminaby Road is a walking (Fire ranger) trail to the top of Mount Tennant. About a 5 hour round hike, but worth every step. Go back onto the Adaminaby road, and head south. Another site of a space centre on the right down the road, worth a look, but not as interesting Remaining on the road for another ten kilometers, entering the Namadgi National park, and two hundred meters after a single lane bridge is a signed turn off to Yankee8217s Hat. This is a four km drive, any car can take it, and look for Kangaroos. Hundreds either side of the road. The walk to Yankee8217s hat will take you to see aboriginal art. Road to Adaminaby. If you have a robust vehicle, take the road south. The country is magnificent. It takes about an hour from Yankee8217s hat. Visit the National Zoo and Aquarium 999 Lady Denman Drive, Weston Creek ACT 2611. (Take Parkes way and follow directions) (02) 62878400, (nationalzoo. au/index. htm) Molonglo Gorge Recreation Reserve (Molonglo Gorge) Sutton Road Queenbeyan East, (maps. google. au/mapsieUTF8ampqMolongloGorgeampfb1ampglauamphqMolongloGorgeamphnearCanberraACTamphlenampviewmapampcid1081121675368939616ampiwlocAampved0CDwQpQYampsaXampeiazkLTby5GcbZkAXR3rj-Cw) Learn The Australian National University (ANU) is in the suburb of Acton, relatively close to the city centre. It is highly regarded internationally and one of the top 20 universities in the world. Locally known for its expansive green campus. The University of Canberra (UC) in the suburb of Bruce (about 8 km (5 miles) NW of the CBD). The Australian International Hotel School (AIHS) awards undergraduate and graduate degrees in business and hospitality fields, and is well regarded internationally. The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA). a faculty of The University of NSW. provides teaching for military and civilian undergraduates and postgraduates. The Australian Catholic University (ACU) Canberra campus is in the suburb of Watson, currently offers Education, Nursing, Social Work and Theology Markets Canberra Antiques Centre, Ph/Fax: (02) 61623737. 10AM 8211 5PM seven days at 37 Townsville Street, Fyshwick. Over a dozen professional dealers, both local and interstate, offer a top variety of antique and retro furniture, funky vintage clothing, vintage fabrics, militaria, numismatics, pottery, vintage needlework tools amp accessories, electricals, silver, art glass, quality bric-a-brac and designer items. Well presented with great music playing and a nice vibe throughout. Jamison market 8211 every Sunday near Jamison centre, in Belconnen. Fresh produce stalls and flea market. Come and get your bargain. Vinyl records, second hand clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac. Old Bus Depot Market, every Sunday. Arts and crafts all of a high standard. Food stalls, including fresh produce and live music. Theme days such as international food held occasionally. Gorman House market 8211 every Saturday in Braddon, just north of the city (easy walk). Crafts, second-hand items, antiques, international food in a lovely, grassy setting. Tuggeranong Market 8211 First Sunday of every month in the lovely Tuggeranong Homestead opposite the Calwell Shops. Lots of stalls, selling amazing stuff. Trash and Treasure Market in Woden is hosted by Rotary and held every Sunday morning. Expect a mixed bag of books, plants, and assorted household junk. Fyshwick Market, Dalby St (Cnr Mildura St) Fyshwick, tel 61 2 6295-0606. 8211 Fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. Open Thursday to Sunday. Sunday afternoons are a good time to pick up some bargains. Belconnen Market, Lathlain St, Belconnen (off Benjamin Way), ACT Telephone: 61 2 6251-1680 Fax: 61 2 6251-7721. The Markets are open from 8:00AM to 6:00PM Wednesday to Sunday. Some stores now open 7 days a week. Thursday8217s is senior8217s day with 10 discounts. Capital Region Farmers Market. EPIC (Well Station Road near Federal Highway, North Canberra) 8211 Saturday mornings 8AM to 11AM. Sellers are the producers. Stalls are all food related. Southside Farmers Market. Woden CIT (formerly Woden High School) (Ainsworth Street near Hindmarsh Drive, Phillip) 8211 Sunday mornings 9AM to 12PM. Sellers are the producers. Stalls are all food related. Gold Creek Village Barton Highway, Gungahlin (From the city, take Northbourne avenue to the Barton Highway (left) then follow about 5km to a major roundabout go straight on about 2km and follow signs to turn right.) Shopping Centres Canberra Centre is a large shopping mall in Civic, covering a large section of the central Canberra shopping district. It has department stores, food hall and eateries, specialty shops for adults and kids fashion both upmarket and basic. There are also electronics, books, CDs, souvenirs and Australian made products. City Walk is an outdoor mall area in Civic. There is alfresco eating and shopping. Belconnen Mall is the name of the enclosed shopping centre owned by Westfield located within the Belconnen Town Centre to the north. Although it does not have as many clothes stores, it features a 8216Myer8217 department store and a 8216K-mart8217, as well as two supermarkets and a food court. It is located over three levels. Note that the location of the bus stop/interchange moved to the opposite side of the centre in May 2009. Woden Westfield and Tuggeranong Hyperdome are the two major enclosed shopping centres to the south, located within the Woden and Tuggeranong town centres respectively. Woden Plaza features a 8216David Jones8217 department store, a 8216BIG W8217, two supermarkets, as well as approximately 200 specialty stores and a food court. The Tuggeranong Hyperdome (further south) features a small 8216Myer8217 department store, a 8216K-mart8217 and a 8216Target8217, as well as supermarkets and a food court plus specialty clothing stores. Fyshwick is the suburb to shop for appliances and technical stuff, along with furniture and homewares. It is also Canberra8217s 8216red-light8217 district. Most of Canberra8217s antique shops can also be found here. Fyshwick now has a DFO 8211 Direct Factory Outlet for big brands, big bargains and big savings. Boutique Lonsdale St in Braddon (close to Civic) houses a handful of boutiques, specialising in independent clothing labels and other designer objects. Manuka is another area that has boutiques and restaurants. Millers of Manuka boutique sells leading women8217s fashion brands like Max Mara and others. For less expensive women8217s clothing try Witchery. Booklovers would do well to check out Paperchain bookstore. Kingston is yet another shopping and restaurant area not far from Manuka. Specialty Many of the most interesting shopping experiences are at the national institutions, almost all of which have specialist shops inside. The National Gallery has a superb range of art books, both overseas and indigenous. Likewise the National Library, the Questacon Science Museum, the War Memorial, the National Museum at Acton, the Film and Sound Archive, and so on 8211 if you8217re looking for unique Australian items, these are the places to go. Eat Canberra has many fine eateries, but beware 8211 many will be closed on Sundays. All public buildings in Canberra are smoke free. Budget Burmese Curry House Sydney Building, Alinga St, behind the Civic bus interchange. Delicious Burmese curries with rice for just 7 Popular with locals, open for lunch and dinner but closes around 8pm. Dumpling Inn 1/1 Lawry Place, Jamison Group Centre, Macquarie. Excellent Chinese food with Yum Cha lunch on Saturday and Sunday. Very popular with locals and booking might be required. ph 61 2 6253 2268. Zambreros 29 Lonsdale St Braddon, Cnr East Row amp Aligna St Civic, also in Woden amp Belconnen. Absolutely delicious local favourite, serving fresh Burritos amp Tacos with great sauces and salsas. The Civic store is open late night on Thursday 8211 Saturday nights, perfect drunken snack Cornucopia Bakery, 40 Mort Street, Braddon, ph 6249 1494. Wide range of traditional bakery products, meat pies and sandwiches, prepared on the premises. (However, for a bakery it is fairly expensive) Griffith Vietnamese Restaurant, Griffith Shops. Cheap, no frills place with little/no dcor and ordinary 8216Australianised8217 Vietnamese food. Hansel amp Gretel 42 Townsend St. Philip. Great European style shop and cafe. Canberra8217s best coffee is roasted and sold on the premises. Also great selection of nuts, chocolates, and Easter and Christmas treats. The cafe serves healthy light lunches and a selection of cakes and biscuits. Kenny8217s 19 Woolley Street Dickson. Chinese Style Restaurant for fast dine in, BYO amp Take away Tel: 61 2 6248 9899. 1130AM to 11PM (7 days). Kismet, Flinders Way Manuka. Another wonderful Turkish eatery at easy on the pocket prices, Kabak and Falafel are easily one of the best in Canberra if not Australia. Pide House, 2 Lawry Place, Jamison Group Centre, Macquarie (near Belconnen T/C) and Woden Plaza, Corinna Street, Woden. tel 61 2 6251-3325 (Jamison) and 61 2 6260-3016 (Woden). Nice, inexpensive Turkish food in a proper restaurant (not a takeaway outlet). The Woden location is open all day (one of the very few in Canberra). Piyaros, Lonsdale St, Braddon (close to the city), ph 61 6248 8802. Great quality, cheap, Thai food. 11:30AM-2:30PM Lunch Mon-Fri, 5-10PM Dinner 7 Days. Take away available. The Front Gallery and Cafe, Lyneham Shops, Wattle Street, Lyneham. Enjoy a coffee and explore an art exhibition. Comfy couches. 8AM 10PM Tues 8211 Sat amp 8AM 6PM Sun 8211 Mon. Yarralumla Halal Pide House 45 Novar St Yarralumla. 61 2 6281 1991. High quality Turkish at a reasonable price, no alcohol allowed on premises. Absolutely delicious kebab rolls 8211 local favourite. Take away available. Civic Asian Noodle House Sydney Building, 34 Northbourne Avenue, ph (02) 6247 5145. Good laksa at reasonable prices (15). Relaxed atmosphere. Mid-range Belluci8217s Restaurant, Cape St (cnr Woolley St), Dickson. tel 61 2 6257-7788. Popular Italian restaurant. Bruno8217s Truffels, Unit 2, 106 Mawson Place, Mawson. tel 61 2 6286-6377. Nice cafe and shop for locally made chocolates and pastries. Cafe D8217Lish, Shop 3, Duff Place, Deakin. tel 61 2 6281-3533. fax 61 2 6281-3450. Swiss owner, nice pastries made on premises. CREAM, Cnr Bunda and Genge Sts Civic (Canberra Centre North Quarter) 61 2 6162 1448. Cool, Hip and extremely funky Lunch and dinner served as well as coffee and a wonderful array of cakes and sweets. Dickson shops: This is the Canberra equivalent of Chinatown. Lots of great Asian food and a few pubs/clubs to have a beer at. This shopping centre is located a 10 minute bus ride north of Civic, just off Northbourne Avenue, and has a fantastic eat street, with everything from Thai to Turkish to Vietnamese at reasonable prices. Turk Oz has a delicious spinach and feta pide. Dickson Noodle House makes a terrific Laksa and is quite cheap. Au Lac is an excellent vegetarian Vietnamese place with delicious soy-based versions of everything. Four Rivers Sichuan Chinese Restaurant, Unit 66, The Coventry Apartments, 12 Challis Street, Dickson, 61 2 6162-0666. 8211 Very tasty, authentic Sichuan cuisine. Yum-cha lunches. Thirst Winebar and Eatery, 20 West Row, Civic, 61 2 6257 0700. Tasty Thai food in modern styled restaurant. Two-for-one mains on Monday and Tuesday make this a top option Otherwise expect to pay around 25. Ginseng, 15 Flinders Way, Manuka. tel 61 2 6260 8346 or 61 2 6260 8347. Try either the traditional or vegetarian Singapore noodle and the Laksa. Book in advance and ask for a table on the second floor, you will get the best view of the Manuka tree tops Italo-Australian Club Franlin St, Forrest. You can obtain a temporary 28 day membership for 1 upon entry. You can get a hearty Italian pasta dish for around 15, with drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic reasonably priced. Koko Black Bunda St Canberra Centre North Quarter. Warm and tasty Chocolate shop with a second to none chocolate selection as well as a innovative and interesting Hot Chocolate and Drink Menu. Nice, welcoming decor. Maestral Seafood Restaurant, 13 Trenerry Street, Weston Creek. tel 61 2 6287 3930. Mediterranean/Croatian, lots of fresh seafood and steak. Former Prime Minister John Howard ate here Meccabah, 105-108 Flinders Way, Manuka. tel 61 2 6260 6700. Moroccan/Turkish Inspired. Very popular restaurant with fantastic decor and food. This restaurant may be busy any night of the week, with most Thursdays to Saturdays booked out in advance. Make sure to visit the funky adjoining cocktail bar with a great view of Manuka, as well as the Wine and Cheese Providore on the other side of the terrace for great coffee and gourmet food and cheeses. Owned by Melbourne entrepreneur Damien Trytell and menu by Melbourne cooking hot shot Cath Claringbold, the food and fun here does not dissappoint. New Asia Chinese Restaurant, Unit 75, The Coventry Apartments, 2 Cape Street, Dickson, 61 2 6262-8860. 8211 Offer authentic Shanghai, Sichuan, Cantonese, and some Malaysian cuisines. Some of the signature dishes include: Crispy Fragrant Duck, Yu Xiang Pork and Egg Plant Hot Pot, Shantung Lamb and Shantung Chicken. The food is fresh and the service is friendly. Very popular with Chinese oversea students and local communities. Open 7 days a week (except Saturday and Sunday lunches). Fully licenced. BYO for bottled wines only. Setting capacity: 34 people. Rama8217s, Shop 6, Pearce Shopping Centre, Hodgson Crescent, Pearce. tel 61 2 6286 1964 or 61 2 6286 9437. Fijian/Indian, best (and hottest 8211 no joke) curries in town. Can be very noisy. Red Belly Black, located near the ACT law courts in Hobart Place. Excellent coffee, good breakfast menu, mid priced lunch menu, great cakes. Only open Mon 8211 Fri from 7:30AM until 4PM. A good way to start the weekday morning. Sammy8217s Kitchen Bunda St Canberra Centre North Quarter. Serving a menu inspired mainly by Malaysian but also Cantonese flavoures. Another restaurant with cool and sometimes almost yuppy feel. Silo Bakery and Cafe, 36 Giles St, Kingston. tel 61 2 6260-6060. Good breakfast, however almost always very crowded 8211 expect 8216attitude8217 instead of service. They also have a dedicated cheese room. Sukothai, 27 Bentham Street, Yarralumla. tel 61 2 6281 1092. Inexpensive non-authentic Thai food. Eat in and takeaway. Tosolini Cnr London Circuit and East Row, Civic, 61 2 6247-4317, (tosolinis. au) Tu Do, 7 Sargood St, O8217Connor. tel 61 2 6248 6030. Cheap and tasty Vietnamese, very popular with the local Vietnamese community. Good bar nearby too. Splurge Aubergine Restaurant, 18 Barker St, Griffith. tel 61 2 6260-8666. Food is very good, but beware the cancellations policy when changing a booking 8211 you could be charged for the meals your party did not eat. Courgette Restaurant, 54 Marcus Clarke St, Acton. tel 61 2 6247-4042. Sister restaurant to Aubergine Restaurant, fine dining. Fantastic weekday 4-course lunch for under 45. Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant, Cnr Broughton amp Blackall St Barton. tel 61 2 6273-6111. Consistently awarded best Turkish in Australia, great atmosphere. Rubicon 6A Barker St, Griffith. Tel 6295 9919. Consistently excellent food, extensive winelist and BYO (bring your own) are accepted. Great atmosphere, romantic rear indoor courtyard. The Chairman amp Yip 108 Bunda Street, Civic, 61 2 6248-7109, (thechairmanandyip/html/index. html) The Ginger Room, located in Old Parliament House, the Ginger Room offers fine dining, in either a two course, or three course meal option. Food offerings can be inconsistent in quality but if it is good, it8217s really good. The Promenade Cafe at the Hyatt Hotel, Commonwealth Ave, offers daily buffet dinners in its restaurant from 6PM and high teas from 3 to 5PM. Drink Canberra8217s many bars and clubs will be closed on Sunday nights and early into the week. Civic can appear to be a ghost town but there are areas such as Bunda Street where you will always find some happening funky bars. Kingston Hotel (Off Canberra Avenue, near Manuka Oval). One of Canberra8217s longest running pubs, offering a 8216cook your own8217 style open grill bistro, comprehensive restaurant, several pool halls, a drive-through bottle shop and bare bones backpackers accommodation (though usually occupied by long-term tenants). Once notorious for being rough, it is now a safe and friendly pub. Same ownership as Civic Pub and Uni Pub. King O8217Malleys in Civic (inside City Walk Hotel building, Ground floor). Large Irish pub with a relaxed atmosphere, does pub-style meals lunch and dinner and a home for all types. The Wig and Pen Canberra House Arcade, Alinga St Civic, 6248 0171. Serves a wide range of award winning beers brewed on the premises, as well as a selection of other boutique and independent brews. Be aware of rude bar staff and a hostility to cyclists as at June 2009. The Phoenix, 21 East Row Canberra City, 6247 1606. About as rustic and dingy as a Canberra establishment is likely to get, this pub attracts a varied crowd, with more than its fair share of bohemian types. Trinity Bar (Just behind the Turkish Pide House in Dickson). This is a great lounge bar with impressive cocktail menu and jazz/DJs playing each evening Thurs-Saturday. Sunday afternoons/evenings are also busy during Summer. Hippo Lounge (Upstairs, Garema Place, Civic). Cocktail bar with an intimate setting amidst Baroque-meets-student-digs decor. There8217s also live Jazz on Wednesday nights. Old Parliament House. Every Friday afternoon (5PM to 7PM), the court yards of Old Parliament House have DJs and reasonably priced cocktails. It is very popular with graduates after work, before heading off to other places. Academy (Bunda St Civic). Two-tiered nightclub, Canberra8217s largest, is a converted movie theatre which retains the old projection screen. Enjoy the dance floor downstairs or sit back in the cosier cocktail bar upstairs. Cube 33 Petrie Plaza, Civic (downstairs from Antigo) 61 2 6257-1110, (cubenightclub. au/) Uni Pub (University Ave). Multistory bar with levels dedicated to various activities including Pool and a Restaurant. Fridays and Saturdays are busiest. Filthy McFaddens (Kinston). Tucked away in a corner of Kingston Green a slate floored Irish pub opened by the owners of The Phoenix. Catch folk music most Friday/Saturday nights. PJ O8217Reilly8217s (West Row 8211 City). Another Irish themed bar like King O8217Malley8217s. Mooseheads (East Row 8211 London Cct 8211 City). A bar with local history. Recently burnt down and restored, Mooseheads is famous as an Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) hangout. Tilley8217s Devine Cafe Gallery (Lyneham Shops). Originally a 8220female only8221 establishment, it now opens it8217s doors to everyone and is a fantastic venue for acoustic and jazz local and international acts. Food and coffee available, along with a large bar selection. All Bar Nun (O8217Connor Shops). Recently expanded bar in a suburban shop setting. Great for pre-dinner drinks before moving on to one of the small restaurants in the area. Kremlin Bar (Northbourne Ave 8211 City). Lounge bar with a good cocktail list. Find a DJ there most weekends. Shooters (East Row 8211 City). Rough and tumble reputation. Das Kapital (Narrabundah Shops). Intimate lounge bar, 5 Homemade Pizza and 10 jugs of Beer Wednesday-Thursday. DJ8217s and Bands most weekends. ICBM (Northbourn Ave 8211 City) No Cover Charge Awsome if you like simple and not 8220mixed up music8221, can get very busy on Friday and Saturday nights. Northbar (Northbourn Ave 8211 City) A great place to start the night, cool, chic decor is a great setting to sip on a famous Vodka infusions. Durham Pub (Kingston), Parlour Wine Room (Civic) (Behind Rydges Lakeside) Sleep Tall Trees Canberra Hotel (Best Western) 21 Stephen Street Ainslie, Canberra ACT 2602, (61) 2 6247 9200, (talltreesmotel/) Budget Canberra City YHA, 7 Akuna Street, Canberra City, tel 61 2 6248-9155 (mailto:canberracityyhansw. org. au canberracityyhansw. org. au), (Fax:61 2 6249-1731). Beds in a shared dormitory from 26 per night. Double or twin rooms from 76 per night. Family rooms 96 per night. Victor Lodge, 29 Dawes St, Kingston, 61 61 2 6295-7777 (mailto:contactvictorlodge. au contactvictorlodge. au), (Fax:61 61 2 6295-24668242). Reception 7:30AM-9PM. Kitchen is only open from 11AM-9PM but breakfast is provided and included in the rates. Free parking. Shops, cafes and grocery store are nearby. Dorm beds from 27. Mid-range Rydges Eagle Hawk Resort, Federal Highway. ph 61 2 6241-6033. fax 61 2 6241-3691. email reservationseaglehawkrydges. A large resort, a few kilometers from the outskirts of Canberra, with motel-style accommodation. It is on the Federal Highway just across the border. Rooms include small kitchenettes, and it is possible to get two interconnecting rooms for families or groups (at less than the price of two rooms). The resort has a large pool, a breakfast room and restaurant, and a small spa and sauna area. Double rooms 140 per night without breakfast and 170 with breakfast. Rates may be as low as 110 if you pay in advance and agree to a 48 hr cancellation period via the Rydges Direct system. Novotel Canberra Hotel, 65 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra ACT 2600 8211 Ph: 61 2 6245-5000 Fax: 6245 5100 E: H2796-REaccor. In Canberra8217s Civic Centre on Northbourne Ave, Novotel Canberra accommodates business and convention visitors, and families travelling with children. Directly above the Canberra Coach Terminal. Rate range 150 8211 250. Rydges Lakeside Canberra (rydges/hotel/0/RACANB/Rydges-Lakeside-Canberra. htm) Rydges Capital Hill (rydges/hotel/0/RACAPH/Rydges-Capital-Hill-Canberra. htm) Splurge Hyatt Hotel Canberra 61 2 6270-1234, fax: 61 2 6281-5998, (canberra. park. hyatt/) Hotel Kurrajong National Circuit, Barton, 61 2 6234-4444, fax: 61 2 6234-4466, (hotelkurrajong. au/kurrajong. html) Hotel Realm 18 National Cct, Barton, 61 2 6163 1800, fax: 61 2 6163 1801, (hotelrealm. au/) Bed and Breakfast There are a number of Bed and Breakfast places just off Northbourne Avenue, in Canberra8217s inner north. These tend to be mid-range, cost-wise, but are comfortable and refreshing if you are looking for a 8216home away from home8217. Serviced apartments Serviced, short-term apartments are widely available throughout Canberra and are available for stays as short as one night. Amenities typically include kitchen, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms. A full range of properties exist from budget to 5 star. Canberra Serviced Apartments Resident manager at Kingston Terrace Apartments, 16 Eyre St Kingston, Toll free 1800 655 754, 61 2 6239 9411, fax: 61 2 6239 9499, (kingstonterrace. au/) Pinnacle Apartments 11 Ovens St, Kingston, (pinnacleapartments. au/) Stay safe Canberra is a very safe city and enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in all of Australia. However, be cautious, especially around bus interchanges, where some youths may tend to be hostile. Moreover, racial discrimination is present in Canberra. Despite its apparent affluence, Canberra has people who live 8216rough8217. Particularly around Civic, it is common to be asked for money. This is a well-organised activity targeting both visitors and locals: if you simply say that you got no money, the beggar (real or fake) will usually move on to the next available person. There are no public lockers. If you want to store your luggage, book a room or keep it at a friend8217s place. Contact The National Library of Australia provides free WiFi and free internet access from its 40 computer terminals (webmail is blocked on some computers, so ask the staff to show you which ones you can access webmail from). The library is located adjacent to Commonwealth Avenue Bridge on the southern side of Lake Burley Griffin near the National Gallery of Australia and Questacon. It is open 9AM-9PM Monday-Thursday, 9AM-5PM Friday-Saturday and 1.30PM-5PM on Sundays. There is also free internet available at all of the public libraries in Canberra, though the terminals at Tuggeranong may be occupied during school hours by students of the college next door since it is a dual-use library. Membership is not required, but you may have to book a few hours in advance due to high demand. McDonald8217s restaurants in the ACT offer free WiFi, no purchase required. Full list of participating restaurants available at the closest to Civic is the Braddon store, corner Cooyong amp Mort Streets. Service is subject to content filtering and session download limits. The Pancake Parlour at Civic (in the Sydney Building, near bus bay 4) also offers free WiFi to customers, along with power points at several tables. Embassies This is a list of foreign missions in Canberra. Some countries may have their representative in other cities, and Department of Foreign Affairs keeps a complete list . Afghanistan 4 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6282-7311, (afghanembassy. net/) Algeria 9 Terrigal Cres, O, 61 2 6286-7355, (algeriaemb. org. au/) Argentina John McEwen House, Level 2, 7 National Circuit, 61 2 6273-9111, (argentina. org. au/) Austria 12 Talbot St, Forrest, 61 2 6295-1533, (austria. org. au/) Bangladesh 43 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-0511, (bangladoot-canberra. org/) Belgium 19 Arkana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-2501, (diplomatie. be/canberra/) Bosnia and Herzegovina 5 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6232-5490, (bosnia. webone. au/) Botswana 52 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-7500, Brazil 19 Forster Cres, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-2372, (brazil. org. au/) Brunei Darussalam 10 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61-2-6285 4500, Bulgaria 33 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6286-9711, (bulgaria. org. au/) Cambodia 5 Canterbury Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6273-1154, (embassyofcambodia. org. nz/au. htm) Canada Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-4000, (geo. international. gc. ca/asia/australia//) Chile 10 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6286 -2430, (embachile-australia/) China 15 Coronation Dr, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-4780, fax: 61 2 62735848, (au. china-embassy. org/eng/) Colombia Level 2, 161 London Circuit, 61 2 6230-4203, Croatia 14 Jindalee Cres, O, 61 2 6286-6988, Cuba 1 Gerogery Pl, O, 61 2 6290-2151, Cyprus 30 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6281-0832, Czech Republic 8 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-1386, Denmark 15 Hunter St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-5333, (canberra. um. dk/en) Egypt 1 Darwin Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-4437, Eritrea 16 Bulwarra Close, O, 61 2 6290-1991, European Union 18 Arkana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6271-2777, (delaus. ec. europa. eu/) Fiji 19 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6260-5115, Finland 12 Darwin Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3800, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 74 Banks St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6282-6220, (macedonianemb. org. au/) France 6 Perth Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6216-0100, (ambafrance-au. org/) Germany 119 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-1911, (canberra. diplo. de/) Ghana 13 Numeralla St, O, 61 2 6290-2110, (ghanahighcom. org. au/) Great Socialist People 50 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-7900, Greece 9 Turrana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3011, Holy See 2 Vancouver St, Red Hill, 61 2 6295-3876, Hungary 17 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6282-3226, India 3-5 Moonah Pl, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3999, (hcindia-au. org/) Indonesia 8 Darwin Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6250-8600, (kbri-canberra. org. au/) Iran 25 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-2427, (mfa. gov. ir/) Iraq 48 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6286-2744, (iraqembassyaustralia. org) Ireland 20 Arkana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3022, Israel 6 Turrana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6215-4500, (canberra. mfa. gov. il/) Italy 12 Grey St, Deakin, 61 2 6273-3333, (ambcanberra. esteri. it/) Japan 112 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3244, Jordan 20 Roebuck St, Red Hill, 61 2 6295-9951, (jordanembassy. org. au/) Kenya Level 3, Manpower Bldg 33/35 Ainslie Ave, Canberra, 61 2 6247-4788, Kuwait 5 Callemonda Rise, O, 61 2 6286-7777, (kuwaitemb-australia/) Laos 1 Dalman C res, O, 61 2 6286-4595, (laosembassy. net/) Lebanon 27 Endeavour St, Red Hill, 61 2 6295-7378, (lebanemb. org. au/) Macedonia 74 Banks St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6282 6220, (missions. gov. mk/canberra) Malaysia 7 Perth Ave, Yarralumla, 61-2-6273 1543, (malaysia. org. au/) Malta 38 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-1724, Mauritius 2 Beale Cres, Deakin, 61 2 6281-1203, Mexico 14 Perth Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3963, (mexico. org. au/) Mongolia 29 Cobbadah St, O, 61 2 6286-2947, Morocco 17 Terrigal Cres, O, 61 2 6290-0755, (moroccoembassy. org. au/) Myanmar 22 Arkana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3811, (myanmarembassycanberra/) Nepal Ste 2.02, AAPT Bldg 24 Marcus Clarke St, Canberra, 61 2 6162-1554, (necan. gov. np/) Netherlands 120 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6220-9400, (netherlands. org. au/) New Zealand Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-4211, (nzembassy/home. cfmc18) Nigeria 26 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6282-7411, (nigeria-can. org. au/) Norway 17 Hunter St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3444, (norway. org. au/) Pakistan 4 Timbarra Cres, O, 61 2 6290-1676, (pakistan. org. au/) Papua New Guinea 39-41 Forster Cres, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3322, (pngcanberra. org/) Peru 40 Brisbane Ave, Barton, 61 2 6273-7351, (embaperu. org. au/) Philippines 1 Moonah Pl, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-2535, (philembassy. org. au/) Poland 7 Turrana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6272-1000, (canberra. polemb. net/) Portugal 23 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-1733, Romania 4 Dalman Cres, O, 61 2 6286-2343, (canberra. mae. ro/) Russia 78 Canberra Ave, Griffith, 61 2 6295-9033, (australia. mid. ru/) Samoa 13 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6286-5505, Saudi Arabia 38 Guilfoyle St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6250-7000, (saudiembassy. org. au/) Serbia 4 Bulwarra Close, O, 61 2 6290-2630, Singapore 17 Forster Cres, Yarralumla, 61 2 6271-2000, Slovakia 47 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-1516, (slovakemb-aust. org/) Slovenia Level 6, St George, 61 2 6243-4830, Solomon Islands Suite 3 18 Napier Close, Deakin, 61 2 6282-7030, South Africa 113 Empire Cir cuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-4100, (aus-act. mofat. go. kr/eng/index. jsp/) South Korea 113 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6272-7300, (sahc. org. au/) Spain 15 Arkana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6273-3555, (maec. es/subwebs/Embajadas/Canberra/en/home/Paginas/home. aspx) Sri Lanka 35 Empire Circuit, Forrest, 61 2 6239-7041, (slhcaust. org/) Sweden 5 Turrana St, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-2700, (swedenabroad/canberra) Switzerland 7 Melbourne Ave, Forrest, 61 2 6162-8400, (eda. admin. ch/australia) Syria 41 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6218-5200, (syrianembassy. org. au/) Thailand 111 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla, 61 2 6206-0100, Timor-Leste 25 Blaxland Cres, Griffith, 61 2 6260-8800, Tonga 7 Newdegate St, Deakin, 61 2 6232-4806, Turkey 6 Moonah Pl, Yarralumla, 61 2 6234-0000, (turkishembassy. org. au/) Uganda 7 Dunoon St, O, 61 2 6286-1234, Ukraine Level 12, St George Centre 60 Marcus Clarke St, 61 2 6230-5789, (mfa. gov. ua/australia) United Arab Emirates 12 Bulwarra Close, O, 61 2 6286-8802, (uaeembassy. or g. au/) United Kingdom Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla, 61 2 6270-6666, (ukinaustralia. fco. gov. uk/) United States 1 Moonah Pl, Yarralumla, 61 2 6214-5600, (canberra. usembassy. gov/) Uruguay 24 Brisbane Ave, Barton, 61 2 6273-9100, Venezuela 7 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6290-2968, (venezuela-emb. org. au/) Vietnam 6 Timbarra Cres, O, 61 2 6290-1549, (vietnamembassy. org. au/) Zimbabwe 11 Culgoa Circuit, O, 61 2 6286-2281, Get out NSW regions: Queanbeyan 8211 located just across the NSW border Yass 8211 Service town, near the road to Melbourne Goulburn 8211 Country town, worth a visit if you are travelling onward to Sydney. Snowy Mountains 8211 its possibly to spend a day skiing from Canberra, leaving early, and returning late. Batemans Bay 8211 the closest ocean beaches to Canberra 8211 115 minutes away. Collector 8211 a small historic town 30 minutes drive north of Canberra ideal for a day trip. Famous for a kidnap and murder by bushrangers. Gundaroo 8211 a small historic town north of Canberrra, you can follow the range from Gundaroo through to Collector as an scenic alternative to the federal highway. Some dirt roads involved (between Gundaroo and Collector, the road between Canberra and Gundaroo is all sealed). Bungendore 8211 a small historic town 20 minutes drive from central Canberra, via Queanbeyan. It has an award winning wood gallery and associated cafe and many interesting places to eat, shop or stay.