Monaco, Berlin or Santorini
 

I am sending my parents to europe for the first time in January. They are doing a tour of the main places and spending some time in London. I would like to give them three or four days in just one place after the tour and have narrowed it down to a choice between Monaco, Berlin. Santorini or perhaps a spanish isalnd. Any suggestions?

What a great idea to treat your folks. We have visited Monaco. It is a most elegant city but expensive. If your parents are very mobile it will be an option - it is a very hilly city, not so easy to negotiate by car, and with lots of uphill walks. Unless you can hire a yacht!

Berlin is a beautiful city with very friendly people. We found it reasonable moneywise with lots to do. The cultural activities are vast with plays, opera, symphony, museums, etc. Because of the historical significance during the 20th century, probably your parents would enjoy seeing Potsdam, Olympic Stadium (where Jesse Owens ran), Brandenburg Gate, Info Box (next to remaining pieces of the wall), Checkpoint Charlie Museum, Templehof Airfield (Berlin Airlift), etc. They even have an ancient ruin in one museum. Shopping is outstanding, transportation easy, nightlife good--can you tell I loved Berlin! Monoco is a beautiful city as well but lots of walking and lots of hills--it does have a nice casino--and is more expensive. I think that 3-4 days may be too much unless they did side trips to Nice or other places. What a wonderful daughter you are.

<BR>I have been to Berlin many times and find it fascinating myself. There is so much to do. <BR>IMO it would be a grand place to send one's parents as they will never be bored there. Can't say the same for Monaco. Been there twice and found it dull after just a few hours. No much to do and it's so small <BR>(and yes the harbor is pretty).

Can't imagine any two places more different than Berlin and Santorini, so it comes down to what types of experiences your parents are looking for. The above posters tell well what they'll find in Berlin; in Santorini you'll find volcanic fumaroles, warm climate, multi-colored cliffs, white churches with blue roofs, SOME beaches, an ancient city buried and lost for 3000 years, mule rides up the cliffs, and nice Aegean crafts. Pick which of these places your parents are more interested in, and have them go there.