If you have already been on some of the Eurostar breaks to the more popular destinations such as Paris, Brussels and Amsterdam, or if you just want to try something a little different, then why not visit one of the further flung destinations such as Geneva or Strasbourg? You might need to spend a little longer on your train journey, but you can reach Geneva in around six and a quarter hours, Strasbourg in six; so let’s  take a brief look at what you can expect to find when you get there.

Strasbourg is located in Alsace in western France and is just a stone throw from the German border. The city is famous for the Notre Dame Cathedral which is an ornate Gothic building dating back to the 15th century. The tower has 332 steps but the climb is worth it for the spectacular views of the Vosges Mountains and the Black Forest.

There are several museums of fine and decorative arts and architecture and the historic quarter is home to many fine part-timbered buildings dating back to the sixteenth century along with the famous Strasbourg market; several of the best hotels are found there. There is also a river and several canals, watch towers, and bridges including the famous Barrage Vauban, a 17th century multi-story covered weir.

Eating in Strasbourg is always a pleasure, particularly in the famous taverns which are known locally as winstubs. The cuisine is a mix of German and French and includes baeckoffe, sauerkraut, flammekueche and brioche. The town is also very important politically. It is the official home of the European Parliament, the European Council and the Palace of Human Rights.

Geneva is the largest city in French speaking Switzerland and, with a spectacular backdrop of mountains; it lies on the banks of Lake Geneva and the Rhone. Politically it is very important; it is associated with the Geneva Convention, the United Nations and the Red Cross; in fact 25 important international organisations are based there.

Unsurprisingly, given its locations and political importance Geneva is a highly cosmopolitan city. It is known for its cleanliness, sleekness and has excellent green credentials; essentially it is archetypically Swiss. However don’t expect a chap break; the city is notoriously expensive and has many luxury hotels and expensive jewellers; though you can enjoy it on a budget as there are many small family run restaurants, cafes and lodging houses which offer excellent value for money.

Take a walk through the perfectly maintained parks in the city, take a boat trip on the lake, or use it as a base to visit the nearby alps, and if you are looking for some night time enjoyment visit the Carouge quarter which is famous for its night life and old factories remodelled as thriving clubs and bars.

So you’re off on your New York adventure. If you have time to stop and read, this is a short list of the best places to do so in the Big Apple.

Barnes & Noble Union Square

cc licence flickr photos wallyg

Union Square may not seem like the most attractive spot to hang around in New York, but it is a great meet up place nonetheless. Specifically, I fondly recall the top floor of Barnes & Noble, where I got to meet such luminaries as Michael Ondaatje, Baz Luhrmann and Salman Rushdie, to drop a few names. Free author and event talks take place there all the time, so keep your eye out. So much happens in NYC that Time Out should become your Bible during your stay here, trust me!

Another advantage of strolling around Union Square is bumping into a publicity lady, who likes to distribute free movie preview tickets there during the week in the afternoons. I managed to see countless movies in this way, sometimes months before they were officially released in theatres, in exchange for filling out a short audience survey after the movie…Can’t guarantee that that’s still going on, though!

The Strand

cc licence flickr photo by drauh

A short stroll from Union Square on the corner of 828 Broadway and East 12th St you’ll find the Strand Bookstore, a book lover’s heaven and the largest used book store on the planet, of truly mammoth proportions. The inside is like a labyrinth which you will delight in getting to explore, and be assured you’ll emerge from the maze with a treasure or a whole basketful of them. I’m afraid this is where I’ve spent most of my money on books – so it’s definitely a dangerous place for your wallet! The Strand also has sales of new books and diaries, as well as some novelty stationery items.

If you are from overseas then it is well worth booking flights to America and then New York just to visit the Strand to pick up one of these treasures.

Housing Works Used Books and Café

cc licence flickr photo by alisonjfb

If you’re looking for a place with plenty of character to chill out at, have a top-notch coffee and a snack while you browse an extensive book collection, you’ll absolutely love this place, which can be found at 126 Crosby Street in SoHo. Again, fantastic events and readings do happen in this venue – I was lucky enough to catch up with Paul Auster and Viggo Mortensen here (yes, the guy from the Lord of the Rings), and score a number of great book buys. Plus it’s nice to curl up on an armchair, listen to nice jazzy music and just relax, temporarily hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is my top pick. Also, Angelika Film Center is not too far away!

Patricia Bieszk is a freelance writer and an avid traveller, who loves to read. Preferably curled up in a comfy armchair with a chai close by.  you needs Flights to America and New York

Travelling long distances in the car can potentially cause back pain. The last thing you want when travelling to a holiday destination or a special family event, is to arrive in so much pain that you can’t enjoy your trip. These suggestions will help you to be proactive in preventing that from happening. The guidelines suggested will also enable you to take care of yourself on car journeys, if you do start to experience backache.

Share Driving

Although car journeys can also cause passengers back pain, it’s usually the driver that’s affected the most. Whenever possible, it’s a good idea to share driving when travelling long distances. Motorway driving in particular can take its toll on your back and since most long distance travel involves precisely that, it’s worth taking preventative measures. Maintaining your foot on the accelerator for a prolonged period of time can cause your back to seize up.

Take Breaks

Even if you’re not able to share the driving, you can at least ensure that you have sufficient breaks during your journey. Taking regular breaks not only helps you to stay alert while driving, but also allows your body to change position, thus making it less likely that you will injure yourself. Such breaks can also be used to do simple stretching exercises that will be beneficial for your back. Keeping hydrated has also been shown to help prevent build-up of pain.

In order to allow yourself time to take the necessary breaks, it’s important to set out in good time and allow plenty of time for unforeseen traffic congestion.

Automatic car

If you have to travel long distances on a regular basis and back pain is already something of a problem for you, then many find switching to an automatic car beneficial. This frees you from having to use the clutch pedal and from having to change gears.

Adjust car seat and use extra support if necessary

The advantage of car seats is that they are generally made to be ergonomic. However, it can often be beneficial to buy a special cushion or even use a rolled up towel. Placing it behind your lower back can help to keep you comfortable during the journey. Drivers should adjust their seats so as to easily reach the pedals and steering wheel, while maintaining knees and elbows slightly bent.

TalarMade have a great range of back supports that are ideal for use in the car.  You may also find that wearing a lumbar support helps relieve back pain.

While visiting London, will you be looking for a five star hotel with all the bells and whistles? Is a bed and breakfast more your style? Are you too broke to pay attention and need the cheapest hotel without giving up your dignity? Then check out some of these hotels for every budget. You want your stay in London to be a positive one, and choosing the right hotel is the single most important decision you will make visit the London hotels comparison page from hotel.info for great offers.

Five Star Hotel: Landmark London

If there were only one word to describe this hotel it would be exquisite. From the outside it looks like a palace fit for a king, complete with a magnificent clock tower. Inside, the decor is lavish and tasteful Its glass-roofed atrium that is eight stories high, complete with live palm trees, is stunning with windows all around overlooking the restaurant below. Rooms are spacious and beautifully furnished. Enjoy a massage, hot stone treatments, a spa and sauna, fully equipped gym, or the indoor swimming pool. It’s only ten minutes from Lord’s Cricket Ground and Regents Park, so you won’t be far from many of London’s great attractions.

London Capsule (Photo credit: @Doug88888)

Four Star Hotel: 

This beautiful Victorian hotel is not far from Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens, so it’s a perfect location for London sight-seeing. Rooms have a crisp, modern decor that are spacious and inviting. The lobby is gorgeous with its bright white walls, columns. and high ceilings. Enjoy a nice fitness room and your choice of two restaurants or grab a quick bite at the snack bar. They’ll even take care of your dry cleaning.

Three Star Hotel: The Strand Palace

This expansive hotel occupies an entire block on the Strand. Its modern decor is both tasteful, vibrant, and inviting. Rooms are spacious and decorated in warm, soothing colors. Take advantage of the fitness rooms, concierges services, and fine restaurants and bar. If you’re traveling with an infant, they even have cribs and infant beds available. The Strand Palace is not only on the famed Strand area of London, but you will only be three blocks from the Thames River and a half mile from Trafalgar Square.

Two Star Hotel: Belvedere Hotel

For those on a budget, you don’t have to settle for a hole-in-the-wall when visiting London. This little hotel describes itself as a bed and breakfast. It’s Victorian facade is so cute. The hotel was built in 1850 and has 35 rooms, each with their own shower and toilet, even a hairdryer and extra cots if needed. You’ll be treated to a wonderful English breakfast and have what you need in your room to make tea or coffee. Located in Paddington, it’s not far from Paddington Station and many other famous London attractions.

Three Star Bed and Breakfast: Athena Hotel

If you like the coziness of a bed and breakfast and want something a little more upscale, the Athena Hotel is a great choice. It is a restored Victorian building and family-run. All rooms have private bathrooms, facilities to make tea or coffee, and you’ll receive a full English breakfast as part of your package. They even offer rooms for up to five adults, so the whole family can stay here in comfort. It is located just half a mile from Hyde Park and a short distance from Madame Tussauds.

Whether you plan to go all out or just want something simple but nice, London has the right hotel for any budget. With the right planning, you’ll have the best experience possible no matter how much you decide to spend.