Essen, Germany
Essen was one of the three cities named as one of the Culture Capitals of Europe, and will not disappoint. Buildings that have stood for over thousands of years can be found at some of the cities many beautiful historical sites. Take a guided tour of Essen and learn more about a culture that has existed and evolved there for more than 2000 years. If you have an interest in history, this will be a must visit location this year. Visitors can celebrate art in any of the cities museums, or catch a musical performance at any of the cities venues. Whatever you decide to do, Essen will be a delight in 2010.

Foggia, Italy
Instead if trying to deal with the crowds in the busy cities of Italy, one unique travel opportunity presents itself in the city of Foggia. While the city itself is a great place to stay and visit, the real treasure is found outside the city limits in the beautiful Peninsula of Gargano. The beautiful beaches are surrounded by warm water that simply begs you to go scuba diving or snorkeling, while the stunning National Park will leave you breathless. You’re sure to experience good food, good views, and a real local vibe if you head to this area.

Pecs, Hungary
The city of Pecs, Hungary may not have been on your travel radar as of late, but it’s well on it’s way to becoming one of Europe’s finest travel destinations. One of three cities named a European Culture Capital, the history of the area runs deep. Ancient cathedrals, bath houses and mausoleums are must visit for history buffs, as are the city’s many castles and other ruins. Whether you are exploring the Ruins in Tettye, or studying the beautiful architecture in Pecs main square, you will be feel a real sense of history, in this “Borderless City”.

Annecy, France
Whenever a city makes a serious push for an Olympic bid, you can be sure that there will be improvements in certian areas. It’s hard to imagine what could be improved in this scenic French city that has placed a bid for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. Resting on the northern tip of Lake Annecy near the Swiss-French border, Annecy has a history dating back thousands of years, and is breathtakingly beautiful. A river flows through the city, making it one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Ohrid, Macedonia
Macedonia has long been a top travel destination for Europeans, and it seems the rest of the world is beginning to catch on. Macedonia was once part of Yugoslavia, and is landlocked by 5 countries (Albania, Greece, Serbia, Kosovo, and Bulgaria). Its capital, Skopje, is home to around a half million people, but the real treasures are found near the small city of Ohrid. Lake Ohrid, which is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes (over 900 feet), is simply amazing. Nearby Ohrid Airport will be getting a huge renovation this year, with the goal of bringing in more people who want to experience the natural beauty of the region. Of course the nightlife is active in the major cities, but the real reason to visit is to explore ancient castles and hike on any of the country’s many mountains.

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