Sometimes we run across a city that just has a very good feel. Often these are university towns, places that are not in the premier league of tourist destinations, but spots that have a decidedly laid-back and welcoming feel. Szeged in Hungary, Bergamo in Italy, and Lund in Sweden all ooze that distinct welcoming feeling. » Read more

London has such a galaxy of galleries and such a lively arts scene that it is too easy to overlook the rich world of the arts in the capital’s hinterland. Here are two topical ideas for days out from London for art lovers. Compton: The Watts Gallery This weekend (June 18, 2011) sees the long » Read more

Tucked away on a rocky ridge is a Finnish gem. You have a hint that Retretti is something special when the slow train to Savonlinna pauses there. This is a minor single track railway, and the unstaffed station at Retretti is as small as they come. On the platform stands an oversized sculpture, an apt » Read more

By Joann Plockova in Prague— Before living in Prague, I wasn’t much of a beer drinker. But with the quality of beer on tap in the Czech Republic, it was easy to become an aficionado. Now in its fourth year, the upcoming Czech Beer Festival–offering free admission (down from last year’s 120 Kc entry fee!)–is » Read more

Nice’s role as a prime vacation spot was sealed by mid-19th-century artists. Even many guidebooks today reproduce those dreamy sketches and soft watercolors depicting the broad sweep of the Promenade des Anglais, well-dressed couples walking arm-in-arm, the azure Mediterranean to the right, the hills of Mont Alban and striking Mont Boron in the distance. Times » Read more

By Joann Plockova in Prague— Prague holds numerous festivals throughout the year, but spring offers the busiest festival schedule. From film to literature, fashion to music, Prague’s spring festivals are a great way to experience the city’s cultural passions. Here are a few of the springtime festivals not to be missed: Days of European Film » Read more

By Laura Mongillo in Florence— With so many must-see museums, churches and palaces, Florence is a treasure trove for art and history lovers. It’s almost impossible to visit them all in a lifetime, much less a weekend trip! How do you choose which museums are worth your time–and budget? There are a few ways to » Read more

By Cynthia Kane in Madrid— High on any visitor’s “must see” list when traveling to Madrid are the city’s fine art museums. The capital city is overflowing with classic, contemporary, abstract, expressionist and experimental art. What many may not know is that many of the best museums offer free admission–at least at some point during » Read more

By Suzanne Russo in New York— Regular admission to the MoMA: $20. An adult ticket to the Guggenheim: $18. A calendar of free hours at New York’s favorite museums: priceless. Hang on to your hats, Cheapos. Follow our list and you can spend an entire week in New York museums without forking out a cent » Read more