Monte Carlo
Monaco is something of an anomaly in toady's democratic world. Monarchies worldwide have either dissolved completely or they have seen their once absolute power reduced to ceremonial titles. But the Principality of Monaco presses on, with the Grimaldi Dynasty having been in control of these 370 acres since 1297. Although France did manage to annex Monaco in the late 1700?s, the Grimaldi family recovered rule in 1814.
Prince Rainier III is the current ruler of Monaco. His marriage to famous actress Grace Kelly in 1956 was a worldwide event, and elevated Monaco to a sort of fantasyland, with storybook romances and a jolly ruler. Princess Grace had three children, Princess Caroline, Prince Albert, and Princess Stephanie. Grace died tragically in a car accident in 1982, and the mere mention of the accident still conjures up painful memories for locals.
Of particular concern to the people of Monaco is the bachelor status of Prince Albert. A treaty signed almost 100 years ago states that Monaco would become a territory under French protection if the ruling family were to run out of heirs. Albert is still not married, which has the locals a little nervous.
Almost all of the country's economy is centered around gambling and tourism. Not surprisingly, the economy is doing fine. Mercedes and BMW's are common here, and the public transportation system is flush with electronic displays keeping track of the buses and trains. Even the train station in Monte Carlo would pass as a tourist attraction in some places. There is no income tax in Monaco, which has made the Principality the chosen home of many of the world's wealthiest people.
Barcelona
Barcelona has always been a prosperous city , thanks to an exquisite harbor, fertile soil, and a population of hard working, caring citizens. This great city was a strong, incredibly diverse region when Madrid was still a fledgling town with basically no landmarks or significance. The numerous Mediterranean empires that had at one time or another conquered the area brought tremendous influences, much more so than the Iberian presence to the west. Barcelona was most influenced by Rome, Carthage, and France during the Charlemagne era.
The monuments of Barcelona open a book into the rich history of the area. These include the intricate and beautiful Gothic Quarter from the medieval times, the series of Catalan art nouveau, and the surreal artwork of Picasso and Miro. But if you are searching for a little excitement and outdoor fun to mix in with your education and culture, look no further than Barcelona.
In 1992, Barcelona was given a huge boost by serving as home to the Summer Olympic Games. This race to the 21st century was quite beneficial to Barcelona and the neighboring areas, and the restructuring program that became everyone's focus was given the name Post Olympic. As a result of all of this hard work and dedication, Barcelona has recently developed into one of the premier port cities in all of Europe. There are so many fascinating sights and wonderful events; you will be awed by your choices and so much to do. Extraordinary museums and landmarks can be found everywhere in this ancient city with a rich heritage and culture. The Museu Picasso is one of the greatest art exhibits anywhere, and through the center of the old quarter of Barcelona is the gorgeous tree-lined promenade, a visual splendor. The nightlife is truly something, and the shopping is fantastic.
Ibiza
Once a virtually unknown island, Ibiza is now a haven for tourists. In the 1950?s, the artists colony of Ibiza began to thrive, and by the 1960?s, the island had become a favorite for European flower children and those searching for an escape from their everyday routine. Now, Ibiza is a favorite destination for middle class travelers from all over Europe.
In the 5th century B.C., the Carthaginians settled Ibiza. The main resort on the island is Sant Antoni, and the Sa Penya neighborhood is full of flea markets that are a shopper's paradise. Ibiza is 225 square miles in size, making it the third largest Balearic Island. It has a number of great beaches, a zigzagging coastline, cliffs, and secluded bays. The nights on Ibiza are temperate in terms of degrees, but sizzling as far as the nightlife is concerned. One of the best islands for nighttime activity in the entire world, Ibiza draws crowds of both conservative tourists and outrageously wild partiers.
The sand coves and fantastic beaches on Ibiza are only the beginning of the wondrous landscape. Pine trees and amazing dunes comprise a significant portion of the island, making it a unique and wonderfully diverse region. The popular beaches and night spots can become greatly overcrowded, but if you know where to look you can find spectacular spots that are virtually abandoned. A lot of the younger crowd on Ibiza congregates in certain areas, and if you steer clear of these areas, Ibiza provides a much quieter and more tranquil vacation. If you prefer a loud, rousing, party-like atmosphere the entire day and night, or you would rather sightsee and rest on a tranquil beach during the day and relax on the patio of a lovely restaurant for a romantic dinner at night, Ibiza is a fabulous place to be.
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