What makes you go travelling?
Tired of decision-making or catering for others, you now want to be taken care of? Sun and beach may cure you of the chronic fatigue syndrome. Retired and seeking new impressions? A multi-country guided tour may fill in the gap. Unemployed or in low water? I heard of people who spend less while travelling than staying home. I also heard of some who save on their daily bread to break free for at least a couple of weeks.
There is no such thing as an averagely good place for an average traveller. My impressions are partial, my choice does not speak of accepted wisdom, but it is well-grounded and carefully made. Be sure you know what you want, and my recollections may save you time and effort, if you regard them calmly and without prejudice.
What makes the country special
"Roman Holiday": ''Each in its own way was unforgettable…''
Where to stay
My budget commands 2* - 3* lodgings, but my temper seeks those providing 5* service. That means clean, quiet, decent surrounding, close to public transportation and places of interest
What to eat and where
I try to pick places frequented by local people. The food is better, the prices are lower, and the atmosphere is friendlier. Tourists come and go, but the community stay and talk, they will not take your yesterday''s pizza for a local signature dish.
How to get about
I prefer public transportation because this is the aborigines normally do, and because it requires rather brains which I have than money which I have not.
What to enjoy
If you are a museum lover – sorry, not this page. As a former travel guide I have had enough canned culture; the jade tomb of Tamerlane is still chased on my memory.
Hunting, fishing, racing, rafting – no thanks, I would not go into expenses to break my neck, other folks will gladly take care of it.
I enjoy civilized outdoors - city streets, countryside manors, places with tradition and people with charm.
Shopping
No souvenirs, sorry again. I have a perverse habit of buying apparel instead. It gives me wonderful reminiscences every day, not only when I have to dust numerous plates, figurines and fancy mugs.
Public toilets
Say what you will, this is the real civilization criterion. Being late for the date with Mona Lisa would not kill you, being late for the bathroom surely can.
This is my way. Choose your own and be happy.