MalTru

Hi! I'll be studying abroad in the fall in Coleraine, Norhtern Ireland, and I'm hoping to do some traveling while overseas. I am torn between many great European cities. I am debating between all of the following: Dublin, Glasgow, London, Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, anywherein Italy, and somewhere in Germany.

I am wondering which cities experienced European travelers would recommend I put as high priority cities. I figure since I'll be in Coleraine, I can probably swing a weekend in Dublin and Glagow and London no problem, but the other cities I am torn between.

To give you an idea of my interests, I am very into art, mostly modern art; I love food, espicially the stuff Dr. Atkins forbids; I enjoy shopping, but try to stay on a tight budget, and I am an amatuer (amateur?) photographer, so I really want a city with breathtaking sights.

I am also interested in good hotels recommendations in these cities. I would want a place that is not crawling with bugs and has four walls and a floor and ceiling, but is still inexpensive.

Like I said, ANY advice or input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Carola22

If you're interested in views and art, what about Edinburgh? I know it's not on your list, but it's not far from where you are and it's DEFINITELY worth a visit!
Amsterdam of course has the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh and Stedelijk Museum, and it has beautiful canals. Always a little messy too, but always lively and exciting as well.
London is fun but expensive - I wouldn't really know about 'views' there, although of course there is the Thames, the Tower Bridge, etc.
I've never been to Prague but have heard it's absolutely beautiful, so if you can you should certainly go!
Not that impressed by Dublin or Paris (I wouldn't put them on my list), but it has been years since I've been to either city.
Hope this helps, have a great trip!

Nikki

London and Paris, for sure. Your money will go farther in Paris than in London though. Lots of great art, too, including modern art. Rome for that stuff that isn't on the Atkins diet and for classical and Renaissance art rather than modern, with a large dose of very photogenic ruins. Although I have to say, whatever choices you make will be interesting and exciting. Can't go wrong.

cambe

Hi Mal,
From Aldergrove airport you will find it easy and cheap to get to Rome, Paris, Berlin, London, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Glasgow and Edinburgh (Dublin easy by train).

All in my opinion will satisfy your needs. Read a few guide books on the various cities and take your pick.

When in Coleraine don't forget to take your camera to the North Antrim Coast, you will get some great pictures there.

zwho

Barcelona or Madrid! Beautiful cities, great art and tapas! Also the hostals, (not Hostels) are small family run hotels. Not fancy, but nice, clean, safe and cheap.