Copenhagen, A Fairy Tale

One of Copenhagen's best known landmarks is the Little Mermaid. Paying homage to Hans Christian Andersen's character the bronze statue was made by Edvard Eriksen in 1913, and was paid for by the Carlsberg Brewery.
Unfortunately it's not so well loved as known. There have been various successful missions to chop off the mermaid's arms and head, the last in 1998. The Danish Government responded by filling the statue with concrete to dull any future attempts. It seems to have done the trick.
But why? In Denmark, Hans Christian Andersen is Shakespeare, Dickens and Wordsworth all rolled into one. Born in Odense, in 1805 the writer is perhaps best known for writing fairy tales - or eventyr - but was also a prolific writer of plays, travelogues, novels and poems.
To list some of Andersen's tales goes to demonstrate their familiarity: The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen, The Ugly Duckling, The Little Match Girl, The Princess and the Pea, Thumbelina, The Emperor's New Clothes.
The fairy stories transcend western culture and have achieved almost mythical status. Made into pantomimes, ballets and animated films they are easily accessible for children; perhaps a hint towards the motives behind the vandalism.
At the end of November, I spent a long weekend in Copenhagen and of course went to see the Little Mermaid. Andersen's story was originally published in 1837 and my guide told me there was a lack of truth behind Eriksen's later representation that some Danes objected to.
The sculptor's muse was his wife, a ballerina. It is beautiful and poised and maybe a little sad but indicates nothing of the torment Andersen's Little Mermaid faced. The character is a very far cry from Disney's aquatic beauty.
In the eventy the Little Mermaid visits a sea witch for a potion to transform her being. Drinking the potion means she will lose her tongue, and so her exquisite voice, but will be able to walk with humans. She longs for the handsome prince she saved in a storm to love her. If he accepts her, she will be blessed with eternal life.
"... your tail will divide and shrink until it becomes what the people on earth call a pair of shapely legs. But it will hurt; it will feel as if a sharp sword slashed through you. Everyone who sees you will say that you are the most graceful human being they have ever laid eyes on, for you will keep your gliding movement and no dancer will be able to tread as lightly as you. But every step you take will feel as if you were treading upon knife blades so sharp that blood must flow. I am willing to help you, but are you willing to suffer all this?"
"Yes," the little mermaid said in a trembling voice, as she thought of the Prince and of gaining a human soul.
Den lille Havfrue, Hans Christian Anderson
In 2006 Danish artist Bjorn Norgaard was commissioned again by Carlsberg (among others) to create a new Little Mermaid. His vision is broken and defeated; there is a fragility in the creature, despite not being a readily recognisable form. It may be closer to the original bleak and twisted tale.
A short distance, across water, is the restaurant Noma - in its original tongue the name is an abbreviation of Nordic Food. It has two Michelin stars and, in the years immediately before 2013, was three times winner of the best restaurant in the world. (I would love to have gone but unfortunately with a week's notice no table for me!)
Chef René Redzepi's menu is traditional nordic food, reinvented. It celebrates local and seasonal produce, taking advantage of climate and landscape. Redzepi and co-owner Claus Meyer pioneered New Nordic Cuisine and a programme across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and dependent territories. There is a fierce pride in national identity and authenticity.
Throughout the city the old and the new compliment each other. The nouveau Noma is in an old warehouse where dry fish, salted herring, whale oil and skins were stored before being sold off in the adjacent Greenlandic Trading Square, the old centre of overseas trade for 200 years.
Royal residence, Amalienborg Palace is a stones throw from the ultra modern Royal Theatre (which opened with Hamlet, the Prince of Denmark in 2008); the seventeenth century old stock exchange's spire made up of four entwined dragons' tails shares the skyline with the glistening Black Diamond - the new extension of the Royal Library.
Perhaps the balance can continue and there is now a place for both Eriksen's traditional statue and Norgaard's modern mermaid interpretation in today's Copenhagen.
Hans Christian Andersen's personal fairy tale began when, at 14, he left an impoverished upbringing in Odense to make his fortune in the city. He lived in a number of locations around Copenhagen including Hotel d'Angleterre and the attic of what is now Magasin du Nord - the oldest department store in Scandinavia. You can visit the rooms, preserved in the writer's memory.
When choosing where to go don't be fooled by the name Nyhavn, translated as new harbour. It is in fact one of the oldest areas of Copenhagen and Andersen lived for many years in various apartments along the beautiful, brightly coloured street.
The author was a keen traveller, journeying as far as North Africa and Istanbul, writing his experiences in A Poet's Bazaar. Wooden boats are still moored in Nyhavn and it's easy to imagine why the hustle and bustle of a busy port was such a draw for him with his wanderlust.
When I visited Christmas Markets lined the harbour. Nissen, the goblins Andersen described in his tales, were popular decorations for sale. I would have liked to have traded my gluhwein for jam, to see if I could coax a Nisse home with me.
One for lone travellers
I'm happy to travel to most places on my own but did enjoy the welcome in Copenhagen; people are particularly friendly and open. Danish culture includes something called hygge, often translated as "cosy" or "cosiness" it means so much more in terms of companionship, warmth and friendship.
Often best enjoyed with good food and something to drink, Copenhagen's cafes and bars do their utmost to create a hyggelige atmosphere. And happily, for the lone traveller, a group may only just have met - wherever there is an open fire and conversation you can find hygge.
Love literature and travel? Visit abookabroad.com for more features.
Love literature and travel? Visit abookabroad.com.
Travel fiction brings a place to life. Its landscape can have as great a character as its people; it can give insight to its culture, relevance to its history and create a bond far stronger than any guidebook.
Published features about holiday destinations, novels and authors are side by side with a growing database of travel fiction. Why not share a book you've read that brings a place to life?
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5 Places You Must Visit in Cairo During Your Egypt Trips

With an Egypt trip package, you may find yourself in the land of the pyramids this season. With the holiday season just round the corner, it can be a great time to plan a foreign trip. And what better than Egypt to spend a few quiet and exciting days at a place where spook, history and mystery live together.
Egypt's favorite city Cairo is the most happening tourist destination. The capital pulls in thousands of tourists every year from all parts of the world. Though the city has a string of attractions of various genres, here are five attractions you must not miss out on:
1. Giza's Pyramids: The chief reason why people buy Egypt trip package is to see the pyramids. Giza has the most famed pyramids in the country. Besides, the Great Pyramid of Khufu is also located here. It is the tallest of the lot and is extremely daunting in its build. Giza's pyramids definitely make you feel as if you have wandered away into another part of the planet.
2. Sphinx of Giza: You must have heard and read a lot about the Great Sphinx of Giza. Now it is the time to see it from your own eyes. At Giza, standing tall amidst a chain of pyramids lays this figure that has the face of a human being and the body of a lion. This sphinx is a mythological creature and often finds a mention in fantasy tales. Even the Harry Potter series of books has a mention of it in the fourth book when a sphinx asks a riddle to Harry during the Triwizard Tournament. So, a sphinx, as such, has a very strong reputation for being enigmatic.
3. Egyptian Museum: Another reason why an Egypt trip package should be on the top of your mind this season is this fascinating museum where some of the most notorious mummies have been kept in an embalmed state. Of them, the most famous one is that of Tutankhamen who was the youngest Pharaoh and died in a mysterious fashion at a very young age. There are still debates regarding the nature of his death. By and large, it is believed that he was murdered though the exact causes are mere conjectures.
4. The Citadel: The Citadel is a religious attraction and a popular tourist spot. Cairo boasts of a number of mosques and other religious points as well. The Citadel has a powerful history behind it and its religious nature makes it mandatory for the tourists to dress up appropriately. Revealing dresses are strictly inadvisable as wearing them may compel the officials to turn you away.
5. Khan el Khalili Bazaar: An Egypt trip package will help you to walk through one of the most famous traditional markets in the world. Cairo's Khan el Khalili bazaar is a place where you can buy anything from fruits to souvenirs. Just remember to bargain very hard.
This Article is written by Afreen Khan on behalf of, ask-aladdin this is having topics on Egypt Trip Package, Best Egypt Trips and many more for information Visit our website: http://www.ask-aladdin.com/Egypt-tour-packages/
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Top 5 Golf Courses in Orlando

After theme parks and rides, golf is one of Orlando's great loves. There are numerous golf courses and clubs located around the city with a great mix of public and member-only greens available. Here is a guide to some of the best, and most elite, in the city to visit during stays in Orlando.
Walt Disney World
Besides Mickey Mouse and Co., Walt Disney World has its own fantastic premier golf course, Tom Fazio's Osprey Ridge. There are three individual greens at this course including the Palm, which is surrounded by a forest home to much native wildlife, making for an interesting and picturesque frame to the course, and the Magnolia, which features a bunker in the shape of Mickey Mouse's head. All laughs aside, this still makes for a fun and challenging course.
Shingle Creek Golf Club
Having received Best Orlando Golf Course with the golforlandoflorida.com's Award of Excellence for 2013, this course is immensely popular with visitors to the area. Open every day to fee and resort play, this course is easily accessible too, sitting just a mile from the Orange County Convention Centre. The course received the prestigious award for its spectacular design, location, tournament quality conditions and superb service, so it is little wonder it is a winner with visitors to Orlando and locals too.
Orange County National
Also winning the Award of Excellence, this course is regarded as the Best Public Golf Course in the area. Having hosted the 2003, 2005, 2007 and 2010 PGA TOUR Qualifying School Finals, the Orange County National Golf Club easily deserves its titles. There are a range of holes to play at this award-winning course, making it the perfect choice whether you're in a hurry or have all day to play.
Celebration Golf Club
If you are used to playing accurate approach shots, this is the course for you. Designed by father and son duo, Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Jr., this golf course gets its players to putt with strategy and determination in the setting of a natural wetland framed by Orlando trees.
Bay Hill Club and Lodge
Renowned as the most famous of Orlando's many golf courses, the Bay Hill Club and Lodge was designed by leading golf course architect Dick Wilson and is regarded to this day as one of his greatest sites. Whilst it's a private golf resort, this course is still worth mentioning for its sheer popularity in the Orlando golf circuit. Having been owned by professional American golfer Arnold Palmer since 1974, the course has also hosted the annual Arnold Palmer Invitational professional golf tournament as a part of the PGA Tour since 1979.
This article was written by Thom Sanders on behalf of Holiday Genie, who are experts at finding great prices on holidays to Orlando and tickets to Universal Orlando.
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5 Top Stunning Beaches of the Caribbean

The Caribbean is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on Earth. It's no surprise that when people book holidays in Caribbean luxury hotels, finding a good beach is high up on their list of priorities. Well, you won't find it hard to come across a good beach anywhere in the region! However, if you want to make sure you are on track to find the most beautiful spot, here are five of the best beaches in the region you may want to check out.
1. Fransiqui Island
If stunning, dreamlike landscapes are your thing, you won't be disappointed by a trip to Fransiqui Island (in Los Roques National Park) when you stay in Caribbean luxury hotels. Located 100 miles away from mainland Venezuela, this beautiful archipelago is composed of dozens of uninhabited islands and beautiful reefs that together form this idyllic setting. Fransiqui Island is one of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago - which really is saying something - and you can arrange a boat trip here from Gran Roque, the only inhabited island.
2. Mopion
Mopion is a beach considered so perfect it has been featured on the covers of travel magazines the world over. When you are booking your stay in Caribbean luxury hotels, you could do worse than stay in St Vincent and the Grenadines, where you will be able to take a trip to this beach and enjoy fantastic snorkelling and perfect white sand.
3. Sandy Island
This long, beautiful stretch of sand is found in Anguilla, and it has long proved popular with visitors and locals. Go snorkelling in the reef and discover the huge range of tropical sea life below the surface, lie back on the sand with a drink, or retreat to the shade of the palm trees to cool off. Perfect.
4. Petit Tabac
Petit Tabac was chosen as a setting in the 'Pirates of the Caribbean', and it is not hard to see why. With its powder-soft white sand and tropical palm trees, this beach in the Tobago Cays National Marine Park in St Vincent and the Grenadines is the perfect getaway.
5. Sandy Spit
Sandy Spit is located in Sandy Cay in the British Virgin Islands, and this beautiful beach is everything that you could ask for if you're in search of Paradise. Relax in the shade of the palm trees, bathe in the warm water and go snorkelling on the reef, where you may even spot a rare leatherback turtle. All in all, it's not a bad place for a holiday.
The above beaches are some of the best that you will find anywhere in the Caribbean. Luxury hotels located near any of these will provide you with the setting for a dream holiday. Lying on a picture-perfect beach in the sun with the warm water lapping at your feet is one of the best activities to undertake while here, so seek out the above beaches and make your stay in the region even more special.
Cheryl Matthews works for the Essential Hotel Collection. For a stay in romantic Caribbean luxury hotels, we have a handpicked portfolio of privately owned hotels offering superb accommodation. We have an intimate knowledge of every property and can provide the perfect accommodation to make your island dreams a reality.
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Attractions and Dining in Key West, Florida

As the southernmost point of the continental US, Key West, Florida is a special place to visit. Its geographic location, however, is not the only thing it has going for it, by far. There is plenty of eye candy and entertainment for you during your stay, including sizzling beaches, topical gardens, romantic sunsets, fine dining, super scuba diving and historical landmarks.
The little island of Key West includes not-so-little attractions. Both National and State parks offer educational and monumental destinations for locals and visitors, alike. Historic churches and buildings, like the Harry S. Truman and Ernest Hemingway homes are sure to please the history buffs. Also along these lines, Key West touts a couple historic forts that have also been turned into museums within which visitors can learn about the more defensive history of the island.
As with most any island, the miles and miles of coasts boast a number of beautiful beaches that will take your breath away. Though this alternative activity may make your breathing a bit more labored, you can go scuba diving to take the opportunity to discover the enchanting underwater world, and even explore around local shipwrecks! Never been diving before? Turn your stay into a mini diving vacation with diving lessons and a whole new perspective on paradise!
Wildlife experiences include interacting with dolphins at the aquarium and with butterflies at the nature conservatory. Or, discover the local terra flora in tours led by the garden club or at the Audubon tropical gardens. In the evenings, amuse yourself by going out on the town, exploring charming Mallory Square. If you're looking for a more raucous evening, hit up Key West's main drag of Duval Street, where the bars abound is there is never a boring moment. The patios will draw you in as you relax after a long, but full and enjoyable day of sight-seeing. With so much natural beauty and so many diverse activities to take advantage of, it is no wonder that events, ranging from business meetings to destination weddings are centered around Key West!
Culinary attractions here will not disappoint. Though Key West is known for laid-back atmosphere, prepare to be impressed by the dining opportunities on the island that offer a fitting casual elegance. Many Key West restaurants boast beautiful outdoor dining areas that are frequented by visitors and locals alike. Tropical breezes play among the exotic flowers and large lazy trees, relaxing just about anyone. The island setting means your should be prepared for a fresh seafood selection like you have never before experienced. The cuisine is diverse, and most excitingly influenced by Caribbean flavors.
Certainly, Key West, Florida is a destination not to be missed. Sun, sand and surf are only the beginning. Everything from activities such as museums, beaches, swimming with dolphins, national parks, watersports and more are waiting for you to take advantage of and enjoy while in Key West, Florida.
Kayla Olsen is a hungry freelance writer with a thirst for sunshine and a hankering to be in Key West, Florida. You can find her quenching that thirst at the Roof Top Cafe, http://www.rooftopcafekeywest.com
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5 Museums You Should Visit in Buenos Aires

Argentina has a rich and diverse culture and history, and one way to appreciate and discover this is by visiting one of museums in the Capital, Buenos Aires. Here are just 5 recommended museums in Buenos Aires worth visiting:
1) Museo Evita
Let's kick off with probably one of Argentina's most famous names, Evita Peron. To learn all about the fascinating life of the nations former first lady you can visit El Museo Evita. Here you can see a large collection of artefacts related to different stages of Evita's Life, including photo's and glamorous dresses she wore on important occasions.
2) Museo del Bicentenario
One way to get idea of Argentina's history is by visiting "Museo del Bicentenario", the Bicentennial Museum. It was opened in 2010 and is situated behind La Casa Rosada. The museum is very well laid out in a chronological order of different era's from Argentina's past. On display are artefacts and memorabilia. Many with a connection to former presidents.
3) El Museo Mundial del Tango
Besides football and beef, Argentina is probably best known for the Tango, and a great way to appreciate this is by visiting El Museo Mundial del Tango, The World Tango Museum. It is part of the National Tango Academy located along Avenida de Mayo. The museum has a large collection of historical Tango memorabilia including instruments, posters, records, photos and clothing. There are also a number of Tango themed artworks and sculptures.
The Academy also has a number of dance studios where Tango lessons are held for all levels.
4) Museo Casa Gardel
Sticking to a Tango Theme, why not pay a visit to the former house of the "King of Tango", Carlos Gardel.
The house where he lived is now a museum and pays tribute to Gardel's life and music. Instruments, compositions and films are some of the memorabilia of exhibit.
5) Museo de Arte Decorativo
Finally, El Museo de Arte Decorativo, The National Museum of Decorative Arts, stands testament to the rich and elegant culture Buenos Aires has to offer. It has a huge collection of fine art that was collected by the wealthy Alvear family. Everything has a story, from the paintings to the furniture. Taking a guided tour of the museum is a great way to understand its history and get to know more about the paintings and furnishings.
Buenos Aires has many more museums worth visiting. Whichever ones you choose you will be sure to leave with a greater understanding about the great country and the people who have shaped it.
Philip is a Content Producer for the innovative travel website http://www.sightseer.tv/content/5-museums-you-should-visit-buenos-aires Since a young age he has travelled extensively around the world. Philip has also spent a number of years living in various countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, South Africa and Argentina. He has a passion for travel and enjoys passing on his experiences and knowledge, as well as learning from others. Email: philip.egan@sightseer.tv
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A Romantic Holiday In Dorset

With the festive season out of the way, many couples are beginning to plan a romantic spring or summer getaway to look forward to. A week or weekend break in one of the many romantic Dorset cottages to rent in this stunning county makes a great option. This region is perfect for those looking for a quiet holiday, and the Jurassic Coastline and miles of country walks and rolling hills are ideal for those who want to get away from it all.
Blessed with a mild climate, stunning scenery and plenty of local attractions, there is no better place for a UK summer break than Dorset. Cottages in the county are typically rural, but are carefully chosen by reputable companies who pride themselves on offering a quality product and an exceptional portfolio of accommodation.
What to Do In Dorset
Couples booking one of the Dorset cottages for a romantic break may be happy to simply enjoy the countryside, make the most of the local hospitality and indulge in some great local cuisine. But for those wanting to get out and explore more of this great county, there is a wide range of activities to get involved in. It is home to some of the country's finest stately homes and gardens, so why not visit one or two, enjoy a morning walk through the grounds and have a relaxed lunch surrounded by natural beauty? At Lulworth Castle and Park, the grand 17th century buildings house some wonderful exhibitions and are a great place to take a quiet woodland stroll.
If you are searching for something a little more exotic, there are some fascinating Edwardian Japanese Gardens dotted with Egyptian artifacts to explore at Kingston Lacy House and Gardens.
The beautiful climate in this county makes it perfect for horticulture, and the eastern region is proud of its award-winning growers of roses, camellias, azaleas and heathers. Knoll Gardens is particularly acclaimed for its flower growing.
Castles and forts can be dramatic and rather romantic places to explore. This coastline is dotted with incredible fortresses that still stand as proud and grand as they ever did. As you wander the grounds of Corfe Castle, it is easy to imagine what it was like for the aristocracy of the years gone by who lived and breathed this magnificent place. A steam train trip on the Swanage Railway to Corfe Castle adds another interesting dimension to the visit.
Portland Castle and Nothe Fort in Weymouth are also open to visitors, and from the fort you can admire some incredible views of the Jurassic Coast. Visit Christchurch and the romantic Highcliffe Castle for a real treat. This castle was built in 1835 and is one of the most picturesque in the region. There are plenty more elegant and classic buildings to explore, and from ancient abbeys to historic churches, there is lots to keep you busy on day trips here.
Choose to stay in one of the many Dorset cottages and enjoy a very special romantic break in the UK.
Katie Chown is a Property Consultant for Classic Cottages. If you're looking for spectacular Dorset cottages as well as those in Cornwall, Somerset and Devon we can help. Whether you're looking for a stunning rural retreat or a luxury retreat on the coast, we have the perfect holiday home for you to fall in love with.
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