Tucked far away in the South of France, Languedoc is one of the country’s most unique and charming provinces; sometimes causing a visitor to forget that they’re in France at all.

By Ben Snook

To this day, the people of Languedoc are proud of their heritage and many still regard northerners with a certain amount of suspicion. Until the thirteenth century Languedoc, the southern province in France between the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, was fiercely independent from the king in Paris and as a result of its forceful incorporation into the French state, a stubborn streak of nationalism still remains.  For example, having a Paris license plate this far south is guaranteed to get you cut off and shouted at on the road.

These days, Toulouse, the home of the European space program amongst other things, is still the industrial and financial center of the region, but the town of Carcassonne is the undoubted capital of tourism. An UNESCO world heritage site, this medieval town was saved from demolition and partially reconstructed, not altogether authentically, in the nineteenth century and much of the original medieval city remains. Surrounded by gently undulating olive groves and vineyards, the city is a magnificent sight to say the least: its soaring walls and formidable towers loom above the gentle landscape for miles around, creating one of southern Europe’s most spectacular landmarks. (more…)

Take a tour through southern Germany on Castle Road to see over 70 of the world’s most magnificent castles.

By Manda Spring

If you’re thinking about trekking through Germany this summer to do a little castle-hopping, the best way to do so is to head to Castle Road where you’ll be able to check out some of the most beautiful and architecturally masterful structures in the world, all along one road and in the span of about a week.

Established in the early fifties, the roughly 1,000-kilometer long Castle Road winds its way through southern Germany from Manheim and into the Czech Republic, finally ending in Prague. On this route you’ll see some of the world’s most breathtaking countryside, brilliant fortresses and even a few medieval villages that are so well preserved that they’ll sweep you back to a time long since past.

You really need the whole week to hop down the line to each uniquely enchanting fortress. There are around seventy castles to cover, so if you try to make it to about 10 a day you should see them all. (more…)

There’s more to London than the Tate Modern and the bright lights of the West End. Follow this insider’s guide to some of the city’s alternative cultural experiences.

By Laura Bridgestock

London, like most big cities, can be frustrating. You diligently work your way through the “Must See and Do” section of your guide, and maybe you fit in a few spontaneous adventures (or at least manage to get lost a few times). You may even meet a couple of genuine local “characters” and notch up some comic anecdotes along the way, but at the end of your stay you still have a nagging feeling that you’ve barely scratched the surface. I know that’s how I feel — and I’ve been here six months now. However, if you do fancy stepping off the tourist trail for a few hours, here’s a few tips to seeing the “alternative” London.

First, London has a thriving “spoken word” scene. On any night of theweek, there’s bound to be a variety of events going on, often combining performance poetry and prose with comedy and music. The best one I’ve found so far — for sheer energy and atmosphere — is Rhythm Factory’s “A Spoonful of Poison” open mic night every Monday. It’s what you’d call “rough nd ready”: uncovered floor, an improvised stage, randomly grouped collection of chairs and tables, and a dress code that can best be described as “unkempt.” The overall feel is of an impromptu street performance. The vibe’s great, and the enthusiasm and sincerity of the performers is infectious. As Maria shares her life in three musical languages and Du Jean smilingly transitions between ballad and rap, it’s hard not to notice the electricity in the air. (more…)