LJUBLJANA SLOVENIA

Ljubljana! Not one of the easiest words to pronounce but a city that is a definite must-see while in Europe. Tourist typically hit up the major European capitals: Rome, Paris and London. Many forgot that Europe is filled with thousands of other cites that merit a visit. Ljubljana is one of those cities.

Slovenia is perfectly nestled between Croatia, Italy, Austria and Hungary. Ljubljana, being its capital city, is the perfect start to explore other regions in this country or to just get a feel of life in Slovenia. If you're on a budget, the train and bus are reasonably priced if you're coming from one of the neighboring countries. The advantage of Ljubljana being off the beaten path is that it's not as expensive as your other European capital cities. You will find that it's very easy to find reasonably priced lodging, food and transportation.

Like most European cities, getting around the tourist areas is fairly easy. Ljubljana's city center is very pristine. There are a couple of different rivers that flow in and around the city, thus adding to its beauty. Ljubljana Castle is perfectly located overlooking the old town giving you a spectacular vantage point of the city. Relish the time you spend walking around Ljubljana. It has the perfect blend of that old time medieval charm and classic modenness that you're looking to find away from the over crowded tourist traps.

 

Roma Italia

Rome! The name says it all. Without a shadow of a doubt, Rome is on my short list of favorite cities in the world. Thinking about what to write to describe this illustrious city, my mind is flooded with memories of walking down the Roman streets in awe of this splendid capital city. Words really can't depict how awesome this Rome really is.

Most of the main tourist sites are in a very central location, thus making it easy to walk around and visit everything. Contrary to popular hearsay, Rome is not another super expensive city. Things are reasonably priced for Europe and if you look around, it is not too hard to find cheap deals. For places to stay, check out the hostels near Termini Station. The prices are great and this is a central location making it easy for you to walk or catch the subway.

Just like in most cities, the city center restaurants can be pretty touristy: small portions, kinda pricey, and not that "homemade" taste. You have to visit the Trastevere neighborhood. Even though it is a striving bustling neighborhood, it has a heap of great eats at cheap prices. My favorite restaurant is Ivo; a stupendous restaurant nestled off the main drag. For 6-9 euros (dinner prices at that!) you will enjoy an authentic Italian meal cooked to perfection in a cozy but vibrant setting.

Believe the hype! From the Coliseum to the Spanish Steps, from Trevi Fountain to the Vatican, from the Patheon to the best pizza you'll ever eat outside of New York, Rome really is just an amazing city that you really must visit.

Some pictures contributed by N.M.