Digital Nomads Top destination-part 2

After writing about which digital nomads destination are the best for nomads to live and work i decide to write another part . Many locations out there are perfect for digital nomad places. Cost of living and of course speed of Internet connection and other living and working condition offered make difference for which place is good and which one is not. Lets see the seven new suggestion that i made for you as your digital nomad location choice.

According to NomadList  Davao is worth if you looking for cheap destination to work from. Overall score is 57 percent. Having on mind the weather (all year summer but very humid) and size of the city Davao qualifies for this list. Internet connection is 6mbps. Cost of living in this 1,4 milion city are in the range of cheap . You can work from home ( cheap monthly packages) or from the bars or Internet cafes. Also is rank as a very good place for start ups cause low cost of starting process. People are friendly and generally nomads dont have any problems there.

Rated as a World Bank top competitive city, low cost of living (apartments ranging from $250–550 for average to luxury), very helpful and gracious people, strong connectivity to the outside world (fiber optic internet at 20mb is $30 and phone service with unlimited calls to the US is $35), high level of service (one day a week maid service to cook, clean and wash is $80 a month and every restaurant delivers to your door so no need to go out every night).

Community here to be very active (lots of biking, hiking and extreme sports) and for someone who wants to be more active this is attractive, and ultimately for me the ability to be in the same time zone as most of my staff is a huge perk (switching between EST and CDT). The population here has great education, people are highly motivated, and I have been able to find a large group of peers who are either expats running businesses from here or local peers who are also entrepreneurs of successful organizations. Overall very impressed with the infrastructure and the community.

3.Florianópolis, Brazil

Maybe one of the best places in Brazil to work from. Have a wonderful beaches and fantastic scuba diving area. People are super friendly and cost of living is really great.

It's not the biggest or the most well known Brazilian city, but it's the most highly rated by digital nomads. It's often described as a mini-Rio due to its beauty, vibrance and active outdoor lifestyle, although Floripa is also far safer and has a higher quality of life.

Floripa is also an emerging technology hub so international freelancers will appreciate the greater connectivity, more widespread use of English and abundance of co-working spaces.

4. CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

Arriving in northern Thailand's largest city, you'll immediately find yourself surrounded by vibrant architecture and history as well as droves of rickshaws and tuk tuks, Chiang Mai's main form of transportation. A ride in the city ranges between ​20 and 50 baht,​ or roughly the equivalent of 58­¢–$1.44.

"Chiang Mai is a great option for digital nomads because it has a laid-back atmosphere, a great built-­in community, it's inexpensive, and of course [there's] amazing Thai food," says Alyne Tamir, a digital media manager​. "You won't be the only nomad around and will find like­-minded people to exchange ideas.

While the picturesque architecture, Bohemian art scene, and exceptional beer all recommend Prague to aspiring digital nomads, it's the city's potential for urban exploration that put it on my list. When you find yourself stuck on a problem and getting frustrated, just set your work aside for a bit and lose yourself in the city's twisting streets in search of small, unexpected moments of charm and wonder. As Lonely Planet describes it: "Prague's maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is a paradise for the aimless wanderer, always beckoning you to explore a little further. Just a few blocks away from the Old Town Square you can stumble across ancient chapels, unexpected gardens, cute cafes and old-fashioned bars with hardly a tourist in sight." Of course, enjoying a quality beer in the relaxed atmosphere of one of the city's many bars after a hard day's work wouldn't hurt either.

6.Sofia Bulgaria

One would be hard-pressed to find a city that is calling out to digital nomads more than Sofia is at the moment. If you're looking to get some work done in a pulsating, growing metropolis, then this is the place to be. Cheap rent expenses, the low cost of eating out and blazing internet speed are some of the perks of this vibrant city.

'Betahaus' is but one example of the city's groovy co-working spaces, and very much a forerunner in terms of the co-working culture. In addition, Sofia is a beautiful and safe city. Kind, helpful locals and a pairing of Southern Europe with a dash of the Balkans makes for an unrivaled experience. Top your Sofia experience off with a trip to some of the highest skiing areas in the region, located close to the city, or cut yourself loose after dark by indulging in Sofia's epic party culture.

7.Cape Town South Africa

Cape Town is another city with a reputation for violence, but it can be much safer than you'd think. It has largely been off the digital nomad radar thus far, but that is soon to change. For starters, sandwiched between Table Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town has one of the most spectacular settings of any major city. And where else in the world can you share a white sand beach with a flock of penguins? Wine-tasting, whale watching, rock climbing, and surfing are just a few of the other activities you can enjoy during your stay. A 90-day tourist visa on arrival is convenient for a stay of a few months—just perfect for escaping from the Northern Hemisphere's winter. South Africa is also ideally situated to conduct work in the same timezone as European clients. If you're looking for a co-working space in Cape Town, you can try out,Cape Town Garage. There are many others arriving on the scene as well.

Source: Digital Nomads Top destination-part 2

Sead Kolasinac ´rejected many large European clubs´ for Arsenal

Sead Kolasinac bade an emotional farewell to Schalke after sealing a move to Arsenal and revealed he had rejected a number of offers from Europe's elite clubs.

The left-back, who will finalise the switch when his contract expires at the end of June, has spent six years with Schalke and described the "many long sleepless nights" he endured before deciding to leave.

In a message posted on his Facebook page, the 23-year-old Bosnia-Herzegovina international thanked the Bundesliga club and their fans, while claiming he turned down "many financial offers from large European clubs" in the January transfer window.

"There has been a lot of discussion written and around lately," his post began. "My contract with my friends at Schalke expires at the end of the month and I have spent many long sleepless nights in the last few months with the considerations on how to continue.

"Because, honestly, you're amazing! As you have confessed to me in the last few years, it is indescribable! I thank you for that.

"In the last six years, starting from the Under-19s until today, I've become one of you. Anyone who once left his heart in the [club] will be a part of it and never forget this second home.

"As I said, I've been very torn in the last few months. But now I have decided and I owe it to you that you know it: I will continue my football career in London, at Arsenal. It hurts me to go away from Gelsenkirchen, but Arsenal and Arsene Wenger offer me the great chance to prove [myself].

  Peter Bosz leaves Ajax to become Borussia Dortmund's head coach

"In the last winter, I have had many, many financial offers from large European clubs. I rejected everything then. I have always spoken with my club about it and finally [made a decision] as to how I should go on with my career.

"I fought [every] game to play for my club in order to achieve the maximum success [for] Schalke.

"Schalke 04 stays in my heart. I thank you for your encouragement, your love, the strength you gave me. I won't forget it all my life. I promise.

"And if I'm lucky enough to be on the road with the Gunners and come to Germany, I'm definitely going to pay you a visit."

Kolasinac is the first Arsenal signing since Wenger agreed a new two-year contract last month.

Kindly share after reading, thanks.

Source: Sead Kolasinac ´rejected many large European clubs´ for Arsenal

Standing Up for Europe

The European Union faces existential dangers and must undergo a radical reinvention process in order to save itself, writes billionaire investor George Soros.

Published on 02. June 2017, 15:37

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel gathered with other NATO leaders before the start of the Brussels summit on May 25. Source: REUTERS/Hannibal Hanschke [M]

Today's European Union needs both salvation and radical reinvention. Saving the EU must take precedence, because Europe is in existential danger. But, as French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized during his election campaign, reviving the support that the EU used to enjoy is no less essential.

The existential danger the EU faces is partly external. The Union is surrounded by powers that are hostile to what it stands for – Vladimir Putin's Russia, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's Turkey, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's Egypt, and the America that Donald Trump would create if he could.

But the threat also comes from within. The EU is governed by treaties that, following the financial crisis of 2008, became largely irrelevant to conditions prevailing in the euro zone. Even the simplest innovations necessary to make the single currency sustainable could be introduced only by intergovernmental arrangements outside the existing treaties. And, as the functioning of European institutions became increasingly complicated, the EU itself gradually became dysfunctional in some ways.

The euro zone in particular became the exact opposite of what was originally intended. The EU was meant to be a voluntary association of like-minded states that were willing to surrender part of their sovereignty for the common good. After the 2008 financial crisis, the euro zone was transformed into an arrangement whereby creditor countries dictated terms to debtor countries that couldn't meet their obligations. By dictating austerity, the creditors made it practically impossible for the debtors to grow their way out of their liabilities.

The Union needs to be radically reinvented.

If the EU carries on with business as usual, there is little hope for improvement. That is why the Union needs to be radically reinvented. The top-down approach that Jean Monnet used to launch European integration in the 1950s carried the process a long way, before losing momentum. Now Europe needs a collaborative effort that combines the EU institutions' top-down approach with the bottom-up initiatives needed to engage the electorate.

Consider Brexit, which is certain to be immensely damaging to both sides. Negotiating the separation with Britain will divert the EU's attention from its own existential crisis, and the talks are bound to last longer than the two years allotted to them. Five years seems more likely – an eternity in politics, especially in revolutionary times like the present.

The EU should therefore approach the Brexit negotiations in a constructive spirit, recognizing the unpredictability of the future. During the prolonged "divorce" process, the British public could decide that being part of the EU is more attractive than leaving it. But this scenario presupposes that the EU transforms itself into an organization that other countries such as Britain want to join, and that people on both sides of the English Channel have a change of heart.

The chances that both conditions will be met are slim, but not zero. It would require EU-wide recognition that Brexit is a step toward European disintegration – and thus a lose-lose proposition. By contrast, making the EU attractive again would give people, particularly the younger generations, hope for a better future.

Such a Europe would differ from the current arrangement in two key respects. First, it would clearly distinguish between the EU and the euro zone. Second, it would recognize that the euro zone is governed by outdated treaties, and that its governance cannot be altered because treaty change is impossible.

The treaties assert that all member countries are expected to join the euro if and when they qualify. This has created an absurd situation where countries like Sweden, Poland, and the Czech Republic have made it clear that they have no intention of joining the euro, yet they are still described and treated as "pre-ins."

The euro's many unresolved problems must not be allowed to destroy the EU.

The effect is not purely cosmetic. The EU has become an organization in which the euro zone constitutes the inner core and the other members are relegated to an inferior position. This must change. The euro's many unresolved problems must not be allowed to destroy the EU.

The failure to clarify the relationship between the euro and the EU reflects a broader defect: the assumption that various member states may be moving at different speeds but are all headed toward the same destination. In fact, a rising proportion of member states have explicitly rejected the claim of "ever closer union."

Replacing a "multi-speed" Europe with a "multi-track" Europe that allows member states a wider variety of democratic choices would have a far-reaching beneficial effect. As it stands, member states want to reassert their sovereignty, rather than surrendering more of it. But if cooperation produced positive results, attitudes might improve and objectives pursued by coalitions of the willing might attract universal participation.

Meaningful progress is indispensable in three areas: territorial disintegration, exemplified by Brexit; the refugee crisis; and the lack of adequate economic growth. On all three issues, Europe starts from a very low base of cooperation.

That base is particularly low when it comes to the refugee crisis, and the trend is downward. Europe still lacks a comprehensive migration policy. Each country pursues what it perceives to be its national interest, often working against the interests of other member states as a result. German Chancellor Angela Merkel was right: the refugee crisis could destroy the EU. But we must not give up. If Europe could make meaningful progress on alleviating the refugee crisis, the momentum would change to a positive direction.

I am a great believer in momentum. Even before Mr. Macron's election, beginning with the convincing defeat of the Dutch nationalist Geert Wilders in the Netherlands' general elections in March, one could see momentum developing that could change the EU's top-down political process for the better. And with Mr. Macron, the only pro-European candidate, winning in France, I am much more confident about the outcome of Germany's election in September. There, many combinations could lead to a pro-European coalition, especially if support for the anti-European and xenophobic Alternative for Germany continues to collapse. This growing pro-Europe momentum may then be strong enough to overcome the biggest threat: a banking and migration crisis in Italy.

With Mr. Macron winning in France, I am much more confident about the outcome of Germany's election.

I am also encouraged by the spontaneous, grassroots initiatives – most supported mainly by young people – that we see nowadays. I have in mind the "Pulse of Europe" movement, which started in Frankfurt in November and spread to some 120 cities across the continent; the "Best for Britain" movement in the UK; and the resistance to the ruling Law and Justice Party in Poland, and to Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party in Hungary.

The resistance in Hungary must be as surprising to Mr. Orbán as it is to me. Mr. Orbán has sought to frame his policies as a personal conflict with me, making me the target of his government's unrelenting propaganda campaign. He casts himself as the defender of Hungarian sovereignty and me as a currency speculator who uses his money to flood Europe with illegal immigrants as part of some vague but nefarious plot.

But the truth is that I am the proud founder of Central European University, which, after 26 years, has come to rank among the world's top 50 universities in many of the social sciences. By endowing CEU, I have enabled it to defend its academic freedom from outside interference, whether by the Hungarian government or anyone else (including its founder).

I have learned two lessons from this experience. First, it is not enough to rely on the rule of law to defend open societies; you must also stand up for what you believe. The CEU and my foundations' grantees are doing so. Their fate is in the balance. But I am confident that their determined defense of academic freedom and freedom of association will eventually set in motion Europe's slow-moving wheels of justice.

Second, I have learned that democracy can't be imposed from the outside; it needs to be achieved and defended by the people themselves. I admire the courageous way Hungarians have resisted the deception and corruption of the mafia state Mr. Orbán has established, and I am encouraged by the European institutions' energetic response to the challenges emanating from Poland and Hungary. While the path ahead is perilous, I can clearly see in such struggles the prospect of the EU's revival.

To contact the author: gastautor@handelsblatt.com

Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2016.www.project-syndicate.org

Source: Standing Up for Europe

These are the safest and most dangerous holiday destinations for the 2017 summer

Brits are busy booking their holidays to far-flung places ahead of the eagerly-anticipated summer break.

Many will be heading to Spain, others Italy, France or Portugal.

Some may venture further abroad - be it UAE, USA, or Australia.

However, with the latest UK terror attack in Manchester a week ago, many holidaymakers are now concerned about the probability of threats in other countries around the world.

Here is a list of popular tourist destinations and advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on travelling to them.

Australia

Security status: Terrorism threat level is 'probable'

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Australia.

Australia's current national terrorism threat level is 'probable'.

Over 670,000 British nationals visit Australia every year and most visits are trouble-free.

However Australia is a vast country and journeys should be planned carefully, particularly if people are travelling to remote areas.

On 26 November 2015, the Australian government changed its national terrorism threat advisory system.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

Travellers should be vigilant and take sensible precautions.

Bahamas (Photo: Getty Images)

Security status: There is no recent history of terrorism in the Bahamas.

Almost 28,000 British nationals visited the Bahamas in 2015 and most visits are trouble-free.

However the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has said that attacks can't be ruled out.

The UK health authorities have also classified the Bahamas as having a risk of Zika virus transmission.

Cape Verde

Security status: There is no recent history of terrorism in Cape Verde.

Most visits to Cape Verde are trouble-free, but sensible precautions should be taken against petty crime.

However while the risk of terrorism is low attacks can't be ruled out.

UK health authorities have also classified Cape Verde as having a risk of Zika virus transmission.

Dominican Republic

Security status: There is no recent history of terrorism in the Dominican Republic.

However while the risk is low attacks can't be ruled out.

142,083 British nationals visited the Dominican Republic in 2015 and most visits are trouble-free, but there are incidents of crime and violence.

Travellers should take extra care on the road between Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

There have been incidents of armed robberies of foreign nationals in 2016 on the Dominican side of the border by criminals dressed as police officers.

Egypt (Photo: AP Photo/Kevin Cleynhens)

Security status: Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Egypt.

Around 231,000 British nationals visited Egypt in 2016 and most visits are trouble-free.

However holidaymakes have been warned to be vigilant at all times, avoid crowded places and follow the advice of the Egyptian authorities and their travel company.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has also advised against all travel to:

-The Governorate of North Sinai due to the significant increase in criminal activity and continued terrorist attacks on police and security forces that have resulted in deaths

The FCO advise against all but essential travel to:

The Governorate of South Sinai, with the exception of the area within the Sharm el Sheikh perimeter barrier, which includes the airport and the areas of Sharm el Maya, Hadaba, Naama Bay, Sharks Bay and Nabq.

However the FCO advise against all but essential travel by air to or from Sharm el Sheikh; the area west of the Nile Valley and Nile Delta regions, excluding the coastal areas between the Nile Delta and Marsa Matruh.

There's a heightened risk of terrorism against aviation.

The UK government has implemented additional security measures in several countries, including Egypt. Direct flights continue to depart to the UK from Egypt (except from Sharm el Sheikh).

As a precautionary measure, the FCO is advising against all but essential travel by air to or from Sharm el Sheikh.

On 31 October 2015, a flight from Sharm el Sheikh to St Petersburg crashed in North Sinai.

The FCO has not put out any advice on travel to:

Cairo, Alexandria, the tourist areas along the Nile river (including Luxor, Qina, Aswan, Abu Simbel and the Valley of the Kings) and the Red Sea resorts of Sharm el Sheikh and Hurghada.

France

Security status: Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in France.

Due to ongoing threats to France by Islamist terrorist groups, and recent French military intervention against Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), the French government has warned the public to be especially vigilant and has reinforced its security measures.

Around 17 million British nationals visit France every year. Most visits are trouble-free. The most common problem reported is pick-pocketing.

Greece (Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Security status: Terrorist attacks can't be ruled out.

Terrorist attacks in Greece can't be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners. High profile British interests in Greece should be vigilant and regularly review their security measures.

There have been several attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, media interests, diplomatic targets and the police.

British nationals aren't normally considered a specific target, but attacks could happen in places visited by foreigners.

Hong Kong

Security status: There is no recent history of terrorism in Hong Kong but attacks can't be ruled out.

Tourists should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those visited by foreigners.

There's a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria.

529,505 British nationals visited Hong Kong in 2015. Most visits are trouble free, however travellers should be vigilant at this time.

Italy

Security status: Terrorists are likely to carry out attacks in Italy.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreigners.

Approximately 3 million British nationals visit Italy every year. Most visits are trouble-free.

Italy will impose border controls on all travellers between 10 and 31 May 2017 to enhance security ahead of the G7 Leaders Summit in Taormina. Expect delays and allow extra time to transit passport control at airports, seaports and border crossings.

Jamaica (Photo: The People)

Security status: There is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica.

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Jamaica attacks can't be ruled out.

There's a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. Travellers should be vigilant at this time.

Mexico

Security status: Low threat from terrorism.

There is a low threat from terrorism in Mexico however travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be in public areas, including those frequented by foreigners.

There is considered to be a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria.

Travellers should be vigilant at this time.

Portugal

Security status: Terrorist attacks in Portugal can't be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

There's a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. Holidaymakers should be vigilant at this time.

Spain

Security status: Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Spain.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. The Spanish authorities take measures to protect visitors, but travellers should be vigilant and follow the instructions of the local authorities.

Spanish police have disrupted a number of groups suspected of recruiting individuals to travel to Syria and Iraq from 2015 to the present date. Some of them expressed an intention to carry out attacks in Europe.

There's a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria.

Holidaymakers should be vigilant at this time.

Turkey (Photo: Getty Images)

Security status: Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Turkey.

A number of terrorist groups are active. Since 2015 there has been an increase in PKK (Kurdish separatist) terrorist activity in south-east Turkey.

There have been a number of attacks by other groups including suicide attacks by Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL), attacks by the far left DHKP(C) and the Kurdish separatist group TAK, including in cities such as Ankara and Istanbul.

Terrorist groups, including Daesh and the TAK, have publicly threatened to attack tourist sites in Turkey.

Further attacks are likely.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and could affect places visited by foreigners.

There is a heightened risk of terrorist attack against the aviation industry in Turkey and travellers should co-operate fully with security officials at airports.

On 1 January 2017, there was an attack on the Reina nightclub in Ortakoy, Istanbul; 39 people were killed and 69 injured.

United States of America

Security status: Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the USA.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners and travellers should monitor media reports and be vigilant at all times.

The main threat comes from individuals who may have been inspired by terrorist groups, including Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL) and al Qaeda, to carry out so-called 'lone actor' attacks targeting public events or places, as demonstrated by attacks in New York, New Jersey and Minnesota over the weekend of 17-18 September 2016, Orlando on 12 June 2016 and San Bernardino on 4 December 2015, among others.

Attacks could take place with little or no notice.

There's a heightened threat of terrorist attack globally against UK interests and British nationals, from groups or individuals motivated by the conflict in Iraq and Syria. Travellers should be vigilant at this time.

Source: These are the safest and most dangerous holiday destinations for the 2017 summer

Cardiff is the final destination for Juve as they look to beat Real and be crowned Kings of European Football

03 June at 09:14

The Principality Stadium is the final destination for Juventus as they look to end the season as the right to be crowned Kings of Football. Since 1996 they have tasted defeated in the final a heart breaking four times.

In 1996, I Bianconeri claimed their last Champions League triumph when they beat Ajax on penalties. Since then they have lost to Borussia Dortmund (1997), Real Madrid (1998), AC Milan (2003) and most recently Barcelona (2015). It is their opponents from 1998 in which they will face as they seek revenge against the competitions most decorated side – Real Madrid.

​Despite being so dominant domestically, Juventus have not had that edge with the rest of the elite for a very long time. They have been knocking on the door but are yet to be let in. Many felt 2015 was their best opportunity but the club have come racing back – like they have done on many occasions.

​Massimilliano Allegri was originally a man many did not want at the helm when he was appointed in 2014, his connections to old rivals AC Milan was not ignored and the Juve faithful felt he could not live up to the expectations left by Antonio Conte.

​Since then the club have gone from strength to strength. Allegri has bettered his predecessor in recent years by winning Serie A and the Coppa Italia in each one of his seasons in charge. An Italian record.

A situation many in the game did not think was possible not so long ago.In 2006, Juventus were relegated to Serie B as a result of the match-fixing scandal that shocked the world. The club were stripped of two title wins and lost a host of stars as questions rose as to when they would eventually come back to the big time.

As Real Madri d continued to have success in Spain and in Europe, Juventus were rebuilding. After 5 years, the club made it back to the top of Italy's top division and they have not looked back.

The team may not boast the players from yesteryear such as the likes of Platini, Charles, Thuram and Del Piero but it certainly has something different. It has Bonucci, Alex Sandro, Marchisio and Dybala who have formed a team that look unbeatable. Allegri has created a team with a solid defence and a lethal attack that has taken Europe by storm this season. Despite selling Paul Pogba last summer, the club have only got better.

Now Allegri is looking to make history in Turin by winning the treble – something that only 9 other clubs in Europe have achieved.  Despite falling short on many occasions, Allegri can finally prove that he is one of the greatest managers of his era, he can put Juventus in the history books like no other manager has done before him.

This club has never been this hungry or as prepared for anything before. With the treble in mind, Juventus will be looking to be that team. This is arguably their best opportunity to put the demons to rest in Cardiff on Saturday.

Reece Hainesborough 

Source: Cardiff is the final destination for Juve as they look to beat Real and be crowned Kings of European Football

Book it: four of the most breathtaking hotel views in Europe

NEW Hotel, Athens Best for… the artistically cultured

The low-down: NEW Hotel, in the trendy Pláka neighbourhood around the foot of Acropolis Hill, is the 79-room brainchild of the Campana brothers. Converting a former hotel, the interiors have been renewed and recycled so that all furniture and fittings look like an art installation. Situated between the Acropolis and Syntagma square, the central location makes it ideal to wander the nearby labyrinth of streets. Each room has a balcony, and the two restaurants serves seasonal, mediterranean cuisine, while the NEW Sense spa offers treatments and a hammam. Rates are very reasonable it's worth splashing out looking for the wow-factor, why not splash out on the Penthouse Suite, located on the hotel's rooftop. The jewel in the hotel's crown, it has 180° views over Athens and the Acropolis (rates from £1,195 per night, b&b).

• The best hotels in Athens

Out and about: Don't miss 'Forget me not', a gift shop that specialises in Greek brands such as Zeus + Dione and prints by local designers. Get lost in the surrounding streets and have a retsina on the Steps of Pláka. And share a dish at Nolan, an all day restaurant that serves up modern Greek/Asian fusion - the Nolan Fried Chicken is a specialty.

Source: Book it: four of the most breathtaking hotel views in Europe

Why Lisbon is Europe's coolest foodie destination

Traditional classics, innovative fusion — and lots of custard tarts. Here's everything you need to know about a food-centric stay in Lisbon.

Where to stay

Mi casa en Lisboa María Ulecia is well-known for creating beautiful holiday apartments, furnished with her collection of Portuguese mid-century furniture and art, as well as her own gorgeous handmade ceramics. Her latest opening is a huge house in Graça with four B&B rooms. Breakfasts are particularly special, served with local cakes and jams and the chance to learn how to make them, plus once a week a different local chef hosts dinner for guests (a true foodie, Maria knows all the best chefs and places to eat in Lisbon).

From €120 for a double room (micasaenlisboa.com)

Where to shop

LX Factory A set of once-derelict industrial buildings, rescued and turned into artists' studios, restaurants and hipster-friendly boutiques, it's easy to lose an entire day at LX Factory — pronounced 'el-sheesh'.

A Vida Portuguesa You probably didn't know you needed a ceramic sardine or a bottle of local cherry liqueur, but you will once you visit this small chain of shops dedicated to reviving old Portuguese brands and products.

Manteigaria Pastéis de Belém's custard tarts may be more famous but I like these wobbly-centred little beauties best. Listen for a hand bell ringing — this signals a fresh batch hot from the oven. 

Feira da Ladra You'll find everything from antique tiles to handmade lace and vintage lamps at this huge flea market, held every Tuesday and Saturday.

Where to drink

Rio Maravilha With views across the city, river and hundreds of metres up to Lisbon's iconic red bridge, this excellent roof bar was extraordinary even before the addition of a huge, multicoloured sculpture of a woman with outstretched arms. It echoes the far bigger statue of Christ, visible on the far side of the bridge.

Foxtrot Buzz to be let in to this slightly secret art deco, family-owned cocktail bar. Bartender Hugo's creations are outlandish and delicious — expect melted sugar, burning pine cones, smoked liquor and plenty of theatre.

What to do

Taking a cookery course is a brilliant way to understand a city's food culture. Two of the best are by Kiss the Cook and Cooking Lisbon; learn to make pork and clams from Alentejo or a seafood caldeirada stew, accompanied by excellent Portuguese wines to enliven the lessons. (kissthecook.pt; cookinglisbon.com)

What to see

Lisbon is incredibly pretty, especially the medieval Alfama district (right). The best way to see it is from a 100-year-old tram, clattering along the steep cobbled streets. Many façades are decorated with hand-painted tiles — to learn more, visit the Museu Nacional do Azulejo. 

Where to eat

Estrela da Bica This cool, laid-back little restaurant is in the picturesque, hilly and newly trendy Bica neighbourhood. Visit for reimagined Portuguese and Brazilian dishes with the occasional cleverly chosen ingredient from further afield, such as ceviche or ramen noodles. 

Restaurante Ponto Final Catch the ferry to Cacilhas on the far side of the mouth of the Tagus river and walk for 10 minutes past graffitied industrial buildings until you reach the last restaurant before the suspension bridge. Order a few traditional Portuguese fish and rice dishes, and take in one of the best — and least-known — views back over the water to Lisbon's towers, domes and terracotta roofs. 

Cantinho da Paz Goa was a Portuguese colony for centuries and today there are many Goan families living in Lisbon, including the one who founded Cantinho da Paz in the 1960s. Don't miss the lightest, crunchiest samosas and coconut pickles. 

Cantinho Lusitano Run by a husband-and-wife team, this tiny, simple spot is a perfect place to try petiscos, the heartier Portuguese version of tapas. Try broad beans with cumin, baked octopus and garlic shrimp. 

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Source: Why Lisbon is Europe's coolest foodie destination