Harwich
Harwich lies between the Stour and Orwell Rivers in central England. Harwich emerged on the scene in 1150 as a crowded and noteworthy town, and began to grow as fishermen and laborers flocked to the town for work. Once serving mainly as a gateway to the River Thames and as an industrial port for imports and exports, Harwich has blossomed over the decades into a wonderful tourist retreat known for its friendly residents and relaxed atmosphere.
Today, Harwich bustles with industry and a population of over 18,000. But it also boasts of quaint shopping areas, delightful eateries and the old world charm found in its many historical sites. Residents of Harwich take great pride in their land, and it shows. It is a modern day place that has seamlessly preserved its past in the form of landmarks and educational tours that allow visitors a look at Harwich's history. Harwich is known throughout England for the care its citizens take in maintaining the beauty of their surroundings. The commitment of the community is evidenced in the numerous social clubs and societies aimed at strengthening Harwich's close-knit feel. Crime is low here, and the sense of community continues to bridge generations, as young and old alike express an admiration for their town's interesting past and promising future.
Harwich locals have formed numerous groups, such as the Harwich Society, which work to sustain and restore popular sites like the lighthouses and various murals that adorn the town. Visitors to Harwich will face the pleasurable challenge of deciding which sites to see, and because there are so many, there is truly something for everyone. From the historic High Lighthouse to the Navyard Wharf, this quaint and elegant yet rustic and pastoral town will enchant you.
Cork
Cork is a wonderful little city located along the coast of the St. George's Channel off the shores of Ireland. It is a small town with a big heart, and one thing for sure, the scenery is beautiful. The picturesque landscape of Cork is absolutely amazing, and the few structures that do exist are tremendous. Cork is nestled in between two separate branches of the River Lee, and it is a quaint spot that is perfect for vacationing and relaxing. It is in the perfect location if you are interested in taking sightseeing trips in and around the city, and the town itself is quite compact, making everything easily accessible. Cork is the second largest city in Ireland, and the major trade center of the south. In total, there are 175,000 people who reside in Cork, and every one that I have come in contact with seems like a jolly bloke ready to tell a story and have a drink.
In 1185, Cork was officially established, but the city remained very small and insignificant for centuries. In the 17th century, rapid expansion began to occur, primarily because of the butter industry. The butter trade ensured prosperity for Cork in the 17th and 18th centuries, and these were good times for the small town that was on its way to becoming the premier city in southern Ireland. The River Lee divides Cork into two parts, and as a result, an astounding array of bridges and quays are laced throughout the city. Every view seems like a postcard photo, and even with a modest amount of activities, Cork remains incredibly exciting. The air is clean and crisp, and the mood is always right. The atmosphere throughout the city is a lively and energetic one, and simply walking around looking at the sights is enough to keep you from ever getting bored. A few of the restaurants in Cork are absolute gems, and the area in and around Paul Street features outdoor merchants selling all kinds of interesting items. The Shandon Steeple is a joy to climb, as you are welcome to ring the bells at the top, and this is only one of the highlights of this great city.
Belfast
Belfast is an ancient city that has definitely had its share of strife. The Irish government is currently focusing 100% of its attention on mending the cities that have endured so much suffering. Belfast is certainly one of these, although the charm, wonderful architecture, fabulous sights, and radiant atmosphere have remained intact. The city originally relied on trade, and developed into one of the most powerful port cities in Europe. As an old Victorian city, Belfast was called Titanic Town, not only for the prominent fact that the Titanic itself was constructed in Belfast's Harland & Wolff shipyard, but because the shipbuilding and trade industries here were incredibly strong and ruled the country at one time. Unfortunately, that is not the case anymore, but with careful planning, perhaps the Belfast port will once again flourish. In the 1980?s and early 90?s, Belfast was a dangerous area to visit, because of intense political and religious turmoil and upheaval. After 20 years of violence in this war-torn region, the government finally declared a cease-fire. Thanks to the mandated peace treaty of 1994, Belfast has seen much more tranquility, and the violence has decreased considerably. During times of peace there are hundreds more job opportunities, and Belfast once again has become a lovely place to visit. In the last few years, Belfast has enjoyed increased tourism, a higher employment rate, and a better state of life for many of its citizens.
Scottish and English settlers came to Belfast in the 1600?s in an attempt to enlarge their empires. The city's location was a perfect spot to expand trade for these countries. Prior to the English arriving here, Belfast was a small village named Beal Feirste. After Sir Arthur Chichester took over, Belfast doubled every decade, growing at a remarkable rate. Today, 300,000 people live here, which comprises one-fourth of the inhabitants of all Northern Ireland. The City Hall and wide range of museums are spectacular, and Belfast also features wonderful parks, gardens, movie theaters, dining establishments, and shopping facilities.
Boston
Boston is the gateway to New England. It is filled with all of the beauty and ambience that makes New England a tourist mecca and a vacationer's haven. In the fall, it embodies the seasonal color change that is about as breathtaking as nature can get, with foliage dressed in deep reds, bright yellows, and vivid oranges. During the winter, the area evolves into a wonderland of snow and magic. Springtime finds the city teeming with wildflowers and gardens. And summer is an outdoor celebration seven days a week. Boston's cultural diversity, artistic richness, historical atmosphere and charisma make it one of the best places to see in North America. Buzzing with energy, this is home to some of the world's best colleges and universities, and it offers a vacation experience that is as rich as its academic heritage.
You will find that there are endless possibilities for fun and relaxation from one end of the city to the other. This city is highly populated, but somehow remains unstuffy. It is sophisticated and poised, but hardly fussy. It is active and eclectic, but not disorderly. The people here are as diverse as the U.S. can be, as are their interests, foods, talents and activities that they happily display in the form of restaurants, museums, concert parks and sporting areas.
Boston is a place of brilliant juxtaposition. The city seamlessly merges all the characteristics of an urban setting with a countrified appeal that is unlike any other city. Old World charm stands strong in the face of modern-day invention in this fully historic yet state-of-the-art city. Lush green parks are revered here, but so is the subway. And whether your pace is frenzied or leisurely, you have a choice in Boston. From non-stop shopping and sightseeing, to a tranquil day by the waters of the Charles River, you can truly create a unique experience here, and can do so at your own speed. So unwind, or hurry up, and experience the jewel of New England!
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