I filmed using a Canon Powershot S90 Digital Camera. The quality isn’t top notch by any means but the camera did the job.

Without further ado, here are my top 10!

1. Bungee Jumping in Varna, Bulgaria

OMG! The scariest thing I have ever done was this bungee jump. I had never bungee jumped before. I was actually supposed to go a few days before but there was “equipment issues”. To say the least I was terrified. However, I rate this video number 1 for that very reason. If you turn the volume up you can hear my girly screams of horror.

2. Skydiving in Cape Town, South Africa

Another first for me. Sky diving with the backdrop of my favorite city in the world, Cape Town, was an absolutely blissful experience. I found sky diving less terrifying than the bungee jump. I really enjoyed that 25 seconds of pure free fall and the slow decent down to the ground. Truly a special experience.

3. World Cup 2010 Outside Soccer City Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa

Ummm, wow! This was before the match between South Africa and Uruguay. South Africa just tied Mexico a few days before. The anticipation was through the roof, the atmosphere to say the least was electric. Tesla himself would have been amazed! I’ve never experienced a vibe at a sporting event anything close to what I experienced this day. The locals, untied, and excited as can be before the event of a lifetime.

4. Riding a Camel to the Pyramids of Giza in Cario, Egypt

A camel through the last Original Wonder of the World?! Incredible. My camel, Mickey Mouse, was very friendly and cooperative throughout the whole experience. I’ll never forget the intense heat, flies, and actually getting to touch the infamous Pyramids of Egypt in the Sahara Desert. My guide did a great job of filming and taking pictures throughout the adventure.

5. Funny German Guy in Copenhagen, Denmark

I laugh just thinking about this German guy. I met him in the hostel I was staying at in Copenhagen. I felt like I was entering his home as he had been there for a few months. The guy carried around a Chuck Norris Book of Facts like it was his bible! Suffice to say, as I am from Texas, we got along quite well. Funniest dude I’ve ever met.

6. Giovanni singing and playing his guitar for us in Naples, Italy

Giovanni, the owner of the hostel bearing his name, treated us like we were part of his family. Once, sometimes twice a week, he cooked all of the travelers dinner. The experience was quite memorable. After dinner he would play on his guitar American and Italian classics. The group participates by singing along to Giovanni’s songs.

7. A Sunset in Makarska, Croatia

The sunset in Makarska was absolutely stunning. A site not visited much by travelers, the rocky beaches of Makarska creates a relaxing, peaceful setting. I loved the experience I received on this little coastal splendor.

8. Dancing at a Club in Santorini, Greece

Oh man, thank god I was the one behind the camera! I filmed this in a night club on the island of Santorini. The season was still very early and the 10 of us represented the largest young group on the island at the time. Met some travelers in Athens and together we all traveled to Santorini. Great experience, great people.

9. Cruising on a Quad around Santorini, Greece

Santorini was quite the memorable experience. My first true vacation during my 7 month long trip, after spending the first 3 months looking at buildings and various old architecture. The ride up to old Mt. Thera was quite breath taking. Climbing higher and higher I was granted a spectacular view of mother nature at her finest. The quad, although slow, was the best way to view the many ancient wonders of Santorini, in my opinion.

10. An Intense Chess Match in Sarajevo, Bosnia

The locals playing chess on the streets of Sarajevo peaked my interest. Many people participated by giving move recommendations to the players. My only regret on this footage was that I didn’t film for very long. The match was intense!

I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 smart phone applications for international travelers.

Blackberry and iPhone dominate the market when it comes to application development. Each application listed works for one of these smart phones.

Keep in mind that hundreds of new applications are being developed daily. This list is subject to change very soon!

Here is a complete breakdown of my top 10 phone applications for international travelers.

1. Currency (Cost: FREE, Phone: iPhone)

The Currency app is my # 1 rated application for international travelers because it’s the one app I cannot live without. Currency provides a real time feed of up to the minute conversion rates around the world. With a click of a button you can easily calculate the conversion rate when traveling abroad. A must have for all international travelers! Blackberry also has a version, but iPhone’s Currency app is the best around.

2. WorldMate Live (Cost: FREE, Phone: Blackberry)

WorldMate Live is your all in one travel application. This app includes an itinerary manager, hotel booking, up to the minute flight info, maps, and weather forecasts. I’m just touching the tip of the iceberg with WorldMate Live. There are many more features this application can handle.

3. Trip-it (Cost:FREE, Phone: iPhone)

Trip-it is the iPhone’s version of Worldmate live, though WorldMate Live is now compatible with the iPhone. Trip-it allows you to set itineraries and organize all of your travel plans through the web. I think WorldMate Live’s features are slighty better, but Trip-It is a close second and a #3 rating on my top 10 list.

4. Lonely Planet Mobile Phrasebooks (Cost: As high as $14.99 depending on language package, Phone: iPhone and Blackberry)

Having dinner with friends in a nice restaurant in Paris, but don’t speak a lick of French? Lonely Planet’s Phrasebook is here to the rescue! This top of the line language app allows you to translate English into a huge variety of foreign languages. You can live with the peace of mind that wherever you go, Lonely Planet Mobile Phrasebooks has you covered. There is a slight cost for some of the language packs. However, the cost is worth the investment, especially if you plan on staying overseas for any extended period of time.

5. Google Maps (Cost: FREE, Phone: iPhone and Blackberry)

Google Maps has been around for a while now, 5 years+ is an eternity! However, this app remains one of the most important and useful applications for international travelers. Anywhere in the world you want to be, Google Maps will get you there. The built in GPS finds you the best routes and helps even the most direction challenged travelers to get where they need to be.

6. Postman (Cost: .99, Phone: iPhone)

Postman is a simple application you can purchase at the itunes store for .99. When taking a picture, you now have the ability to add a frame, greeting, and send as an e-postcard. A great app for making that perfect photo and staying in touch with friends and family.

7. Flighttrack (Cost: $4.00, Phone: iPhone)

The Flighttrack application works hand in hand with Trip-it, both exclusively for the iPhone. With flighttrack you have full access to a wide variety of flight information. Check flight schedules, predict delays, watch weather patterns, and keep family and friends in the loop of flight arrival status. Flighttrack or Flighttrack Pro are apps that every international traveler who plans on doing a bit of flying needs.

8. Taxi Magic (Cost: FREE, but $1.50 booking fee, Phone: iPhone and Blackberry)

This is currently only a U.S. based application, but I added because it is such a useful application when traveling around America. Hopefully, they will expand Taxi Magic to include other countries. What seperates Taxi Magic from the many other taxi applications out there is that this app connects directly to the taxi computer dispatch system. Which means you are able to get live updates of your cab’s status and can pay with their credit card input system. Great for quickly finding a taxi in your area.

9. HRS Hotel Organizer (Cost: FREE, Phone: Blackberry)

Search through a massive database of hotels, over 200,000, for best prices and availability with HRS Hotel Organizer. You can book your hotel direct with no charge. A very handy application to find the best deals on hotels wherever you are. Great app for international travelers. Oh ya did I mention everything about HRS is free??

10. WHERE (Cost: FREE, Phone: Blackberry)

Rounding out my top 10 is WHERE? What? No, WHERE is the name of this travel application for the Blackberry. This location based app helps find establishments located near you. For example you can find reviews of restaurants, shopping malls, and other businesses located within a walking distance of your location.

Visiting Dublin soon? Make sure you don’t forget to take a gander at some of the most world renowned bars in the world. The Irish love a good drink and you should kick back, relax and enjoy a few rounds with them as well.

I based my criteria on atmosphere, quality of beer, pricing, history, and popularity amongst locals. Here is my list of the top 10 pubs in Dublin, Ireland.

1. The Brazen Head – 20 Lower Bridge St.

Welcome to Dublin’s most famous and oldest bar in the city. The Brazen Head claims to have been established since 1198! We’re talking 12th century folks! Low ceilings and old brick architecture let you feel like your drinking a pint from the good ol’ days. The beer and atmosphere are great as well. The Brazen Head attracts some of the best live music in Dublin and constantly receives top marks for quality of beer selection. The Brazen head is a must visit for first timers to Dublin.

2. The Long Hall – 51 South Great George’s St.

Looking for a bar with the elegance of a Victorian style establishment with some of Dublin’s finest beer selection? The Long Hall is one of the best places to grab a superb pint of Guinness. Located in the trendy area of George’s St., the Long Hall maintains it’s old style theme by keeping things simple. The music is turned down a notch as local conversation fills the air. The Long hall is a must visit for any beer enthusiast!

3. The Stag’s Head – 1 Dame Court

My top 3 choices for top pubs in Dublin have two things in common, they all serve high quality beer and have been around for a long time. The Stag’s Head began serving beer in the 1870′s and was the first pub to have electricity in the city. You will not find a pub in Dublin with a warmer friendlier atmosphere. The Stag’s Head caters to the customer who wants to take a mid-afternoon break to get away from the drama of the real world over a fine pint. Surrounded by wood paneling and stained glass windows, you get the feeling of a noble man in a lavish Victorian style bar.

4. Mulligan’s – 8 Poolbeg St.

Visit Mulligan’s for an experienced staff that knows how to pour the perfect pint. Established in 1782, Mulligan’s attracts famous names like John F. Kennedy and James Joyce, but also caters to the common folk. There are 3 bars and a large lounge upstairs for your seating and drinking pleasures. The walls are decorated with large posters and you will also find darker spaces for your peaceful pleasures. Tourists will enjoy the history and quality of beer while Dubliners enjoy Mulligan’s for its old traditions.

5. Davy Byrne’s – 21 Duke St

Davy Byrne’s is world famous for being featured in the novel Ulysses by James Joyce and attracts a large amount of tourists. The pub is a bit more upscale than most and features and older crowd. At Davy Byrne’s, expect great food service to go along with your pint of beer. Favorites include irish smoked salmon and Guinness pie. Although a well known tourist place, locals do frequently meet at Davy Byrne’s to unwind from the shopping district area.

6. The International Bar – 23 Wicklow Street

The International Bar is perhaps Dublin’s best pub for experiencing live music. Located off of Wicklow St., and at the center of Dublin’s trendiest district, The International Bar provides intimacy with outstanding local live music. Expect quality food and beer sections when you walk in. I recommend this bar as a spot to bring your friends for a night of good conversation, beer, and music.

7. Kehoe’s – 9 South Anne St

Kehoe’s is a small, quaint bar that attracts droves of Dubliners looking to pass the time away. Enjoy one of the best pints of Guinness in the city or relax upstairs where John Kehoe himself once lived. If your looking for a small, local pub with a friendly Dublin atmosphere, Kehoe’s is the place for you

8. Cassidy’s – 27 Westmoreland Street

If Bill Clinton approves, it must be good. Cassidy’s is a bohemium style bar that is owned by Bill Clinton’s cousins. Like The Long Hall, Cassidy’s is well known for having some of the best live music in the city. Enjoy a pint with top notch entertainment and a premium drinking experience.

9. McDaid’s – 3 Harry St

McDaid’s, on Harry St., is a pub located near the city center. Walking in, you will notice the decorative art and high celings, characteristics of a Victorian style bar. McDaid’s is a popular spot for tourists as well as local students. They are attracted by the great selection of beers and one of the highest standards of service in Dublin.

10. 0′ Donoghue’s – 15 Merrion Row

Located in the heart of Dublin, 0′ Donoghue’s always attracts a steady crowd. 0′ Donoghue’s contributed to local folk music by launching one of Dublin’s most famous music groups, The Dubliners. Today many muscians frequent this comfortable bar to entertain the masses over a pint of solid Irish beer.

I did not list any specific brands so the onus is on you to research each product to find the best fit for your trips.

Here are the top 10 gadgets I would not leave home without.

1. Laptop

The all in one gadget has a variety of uses. Surf the web, check email, store photos, and logging your travels are just a few of the many uses of the laptop. In addition, you can save a bit of money using your own vs. paying the expenses of internet cafes. If you are like me and plan on doing a bit of work while traveling then there really is no alternative. Do your research to find the best locations around town to access free WI-FI.

The laptop is one item you do want to invest a few hundred dollars in. Ideal features for travelers include weight, hard drive space, screen size, battery life, and durability. Travelers will be pleased to know that superb laptops with these features run under $500. The laptop is the one item I cannot leave home without and is my top gadget.

2. Digital Camera

Naturally you will meet many interesting people, places, and natural beauties along your travels. Every traveler needs a digital camera to logs these encounters. The type of camera you buy depends on the use. Since this post is catered toward backpackers the best camera you can purchase is one that is small, water proof, durable, and high resolution( I recommend 8MP and above). Prices can vary, but a good starting point is around $300. Remember, these are YOUR memories so it makes sense to maximize the quality of the photos.

3. Phone

Phone’s theses days are basically mini computers that allow you to call somebody every once in a while. Smart phones especially tow the line between hand held laptop and super phone. For the backpacker, smart phones enable travelers to quickly translate phrases in different languages, check email, book flights and hotel accommodations, give people an up to the minute update of what you are doing, enjoy the benefits of a built in GPS , and a wide array of other handy features.

The iPhone and Blackberry are two of the more popular choices for smart phones. When chooising a phone,make sure you keep costs in mind. Romaing fees on the major carriers can add up to $4 a minute and above. It’s adviseable to purchase an unlocked phone that allows you to switch out the SIM card in the location you will be in. Again, you will need to do some research on the best route to take on this one.

4. Multi-Tool

The multi-tool is a backpackers best friend. When traveling you never know what will go wrong and need a patch up. How many times have you looked around the house for that bottle opener to open your favorite beer, or for those pliers to tighten some screws in your car? The multi-tool is your all-in-one tool set. In additon to acting as a bottle opener and screw driver, the multi-tool functions as a knife, scissors, saw, pliers and many other uses. I know if I’m stranded somewhere in some foreign country in the middle of nowhere, the multi-tool would be the one item I couldn’t live without.

5. GPS Device

For those who decide not to purchase a smart phone, you will need a GPS. A bonfide compass, the GPS will get you where you need to be. The GPS acts as a real time map to guide you through every twist and turn. The street names in foreign countires can be quite confusing for first timers In addition, holding up a map to your face can make you vulernable to pick pockets. The GPS takes care of this issue by informing you of exactly when to make the next turn to reach your destination. A solid GPS will cost no more than $250.

6. International Plug Adapter

What happens when your laptop runs out of battery and the location your staying doesn’t have the correct plug outlet for your charger? Problem fixed with the international plug adapter. A must have to charge up all your electronic gear you will be bringing with you on the trip. Plug adapters are very inexpensive can be easily packed in your backpack. Thus making them a necessity for all trips abroad.

7. Padlocks and Money Belt

Your collection of gadgets wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of security. Padlocks and a money belt will help protect your gear from being taken by intruders. Especially in crowded areas, pick pockets hone their craft everyday against unsuspecting tourists. Padlocks make it difficult for others to break into your backpack by locking up all routes of entry, mostly including zippers and pouches. The purpose of a money belt is to store your cash and credit cards items in a place where thieves won’t be able to reach.

8. Noise Canceling Headphones

The sweet sound of music helps to relax the soul. When traveling there will be times when you just want to take a step back and listen to some of your favorite tunes. Noise canceling headphones function two purposes. The first purpose is to give you a great auditory experience for hearing your favorite songs. The second one is to block out other outside noises from reaching your ears.

Especially if you plan on staying hostels, the noise levels can at times be unbearable. You will need headphones or ear plugs to ensure a good night of sleep for your busy schedule. The noise canceling headphones can be expensive, starting at upwards of $100 but are well worth the investment. If you choose to leave the headphones at home, make sure you get a decent set of ear plugs.

9. Flashlight

The flashlight is a small handy tool with a variety of uses for backpackers. There will be times when you will need additional lighting to read a book, find a missing item, or explore a dark area. LED flashlights are particullary useful for backpackers on a budget. Small, inexpensive, and powerful, the LED flashlight is a tool that should not be overlooked in your aresenal of gear. In additon, many brands sell solar powered LED flashlights that can be recharged during day light hours.

10. External Hard Drive

The final item on my top 10 list is the external hard drive. With the laptop representing my top gadget for backpackers, it makes sense to have a backup plan just in case your laptop crashes, breaks or gets stolen. In addition to backing up important files, external hard drives can act as additional space to store music, videos, or photos. Great for easy access while on long train or plane rides.

I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 credit cards for overseas travelers. The criteria assumes one has either good or excellent credit. Benefits, prices, and percentages can vary for people with lower credit scores.

Capital One is far and away the best credit card to use for traveling. The main reason is because they reimburse you for any foreign transaction fee.

Mastercard and Visa charge a 1% transaction fee for switching currency, but Capital One pays you back for this charge. Other companies charge as much as 3%,not including additional fees if the card was issued by a bank. That alone is the #1 incentive to use Capital One. The benefits aren’t bad either

1. Capital One Miles Signature

The Miles Signature is the crown jewel of Capital One’s outstanding lineup of credit cards. There is no annual fee and you earn 1 mile for every dollar spent, 2 miles per dollar if you spend over $1,000/month. The approval process is quick and painless. If you apply over the phone, approval time takes less than a minute and you will have your card in about 2 weeks. The Miles Signature is ideal for people traveling overseas and rack up a ton of airline miles.

For all you math majors out there, Superb rewards and benefits + 0% Foreign Transaction Fees = The Best Credit Card for Travelers

Oh ya, and there is no limit on the miles you earn and they do not expire!

2. Capital One Miles Rewards

A close second is Capital One’s Miles Rewards Card. All the benefits are the same except a few small differences. The max number of miles per dollar you can earn is 1.25 and the APR is a bit higher on this card, 13.9% for Miles Signature and 16.9% for Miles Rewards. The reason is based on the approval process. Travelers with good credit can be approved for the Miles Rewards while the Miles Signature requires excellent credit.

3. Capital One Platinum

Are you a business owner that needs a card to best utilize your travel needs? The Capital One Platinum Card should be your plastic of choice. As with the other Capital One cards, there is no fee on foreign purchases. This card is ideal for business owners who make larger transactions on a regular basis. You receive 2 miles per $1 on ALL purchases domestic or international. There is a slight annual fee of $39, but that fee is waived during your first year of useage.

4. Capital One Cash Rewards

Rounding out my top 4 is…..Capital One!, again. Even without any rewards Capital One would still be in my top 4. Instead of receiving airline miles or extended hotel stays, sometimes the best option is cold hard cash. The Capital One Cash Rewards card offers 1% cash back on all purchases (more than my money market account at .85%), with no annual fee. There is no limit to the amount of cash you can receive and no expiration date. The Cash rewards is a great option for travelers who prefer flexible spending options.

5. American Express Gold

In the event that your Capital One card starts having issues, the American Express credit cards are a great second credit card to have for travelers. Amex is known throughout the world for their top notch support and security. The main difference between Capital One and American Express is the 2.7% foreign transaction fee. They are very upfront about their fees and you know what you are going to get with Amex.

The best credit card American Express has to offer for travelers is the American Express Gold card. Travelers can qualify for $100 cash back once a year for booking your vacations through one of about 20 airline carriers who support the rewards program. In addition you get insurance that covers theft, lost luggage, and travel accident insurance. The only drawbacks include a $125 annual fee after the first year and the 2.7% foreign transaction fee.

6. Discover Miles

If Discover was more widely accepted, their cards would probably be somewhere in my top 3. The fact of the matter is that very few European locations accept Discover. You will need to do some research on which places will allow purchases on this card. Discover, like Capital One, does not charge any foreign transaction fee and has superb benefits for travelers.

The Miles by Discover is their best card. The APR of 10.9% is better than any of the Capital One cards and you earn 1 mile for every dollar spent. The neatest thing about this card is that those miles aren’t exclusive to airlines, you can earn bonus miles for frequent travel via car and train as well! The miles can really add up and they never expire. The Discover Miles card is highly recommended for use in North America locations. (Canada and Mexico widely accept Discover).

7. American Express Blue Sky

The Amex Blue Sky caters to redeeming anything related to travel. You can receive points for airlines, hotels, and car rentals. There is no annual fee and there is a 0% APR for first 6 months. A big difference between this card and the American Express Gold is that the miles on Blue Sky can be redeemed on any airline.

8. American Express Blue

Amex Blue card is very similar to the Blue Sky, but with a few changes. You don’t get the same travel benefits as you would with the Blue Sky, but you have a much lower APR (8%) and the flexibility to pay over time. Travelers who aren’t in one location for more than a few days will find this card desirable.

9. Discover Open Road

The rewards on the Open Road card are amazing! Unfortunately, this card isn’t ideal for traveling outside the U.S. I included Discover’s Open Road credit card because it is a must for U.S. travelers who take road trips often. You can earn as much as 5% cash back on gas, car repairs, oil changes, parts, and anything else related to your car. In addition, there is no annual fee with a low 10% APR. Go get one now for your U.S. travels!

10. Citi Platinum Select

Lastly, ending my top 10 list, is a credit card for the traveler who desires peace of mind over cost. The Citi Platinum Select is not cheap. The foreign transaction fee can range anywhere from 3 – 8% depending on the merchant, but there is no annual fee. The Platinum Select has one of the strongest benefit packages for people who might need emergency assistance while traveling. If your looking for a safe, worry free trip, the Citi Platinum Select is the way to go.

Switzerland is an amazing ski country defined by the majestic Swiss Alps. The winter months offer the opportunity for novice and experts skiers alike to carve up some of the finest white powder on Earth!

Listed below is a breakdown of Switzerlands top 10 resorts and places to ski. These 10 locations not only represent Switzerland’s best, but are also some of the most sought after locations in the world!

10. Arosa – Located in the Eastern section of Switzerland, Arosa is a summer and winter resort. Full of tradition and history, Arosa creates an experience that cannot be fully digested without an extend stay. So how are the slopes? Arosa has over 50 miles of pristine terrain for you to fully immerse in. The air is especially pure and the slope drop offs will challenge even the most experienced skiers. Nature lovers will also enjoy the relative isolation of Arosa as compared to some of the other resorts on this list

9. Gstaad/Saanenland - Looking for a ski resort where you can gain some experience without be subjected to extremely difficult courses? If so, then Gstadd might be the place for you. Their courses attract mostly beginners and intermediate skiers because the slopes aren’t as insane as some of the other locations in Switzerland. The only drawback for me is Gstaad is a bit on the pricey side. Swank hotels, trendy shops, and upscale restaurants are a common sight throughout. However, if money is not an obstacle, you will be pleased to know that the Gstadd/Saanenland area is one of the largest ski resorts in the Alps.

8. Murren – Murren is truly a picturesque sight to see. Located on a high cliff in Lauterbrunnen Valley over 5,400 ft. in the air, this mountain village can only be reached by cable car. With some of the best hiking and sledding trails in all of Switzerland, you will not have a problem finding things to do when the snow isn’t at it’s best (Summer Months). However, during peak snow season you will find that Murren offers some of the best snow and slopes around, attracting more advanced skiers.

7. Davos/Klosters – Davos is located in East Switzerland on the Landwasser River. The popularity of Davos has tailed off a bit from its heyday and the village is a bit rundown. Klosters offers a better alternative and brings in many skiers from The Netherlands and UK. This  region offers ample slopes for the less experienced skier. There are many things to do, incudling superb hiking trails and mesmerizing restaurants located high in the sky.

6. Laax/Films/Falera – This area offers a wide range of summer sports. Skiing and snowboarding competitions are held through the winter months. Combinded, the Laax/Films/Falera area occupies over 130 sq. miles of prime skiing opportunities. The Vorab Glacier and Crap Sogn Gion attract much of the cross country skiing crowd while Foppa and Nagens represent an awesome downhill alternative for beginner and intermediate skiers. The lodging accommodations are reasonable and isn’t as pretentious as say Gstaad. If crowds aren’t your thing be sure to book your trip during the weekdays, the locals take advantage of the prime snow conditions during the weekends.

5. Saas-Fee – Saas-Fee is located in southwest Switzerland, next to Zermatt, and is home to the highest mountain in all of Switzerland, The Dom. What  attracts many visitors to Saas-Fee is the amount of glacial activity. Glaciers of the Dom and the Allalinhorn allow for year-round sports activities, including summer skiing in some locations. With a wide range of blue rating slopes, Saas-Fee brings in much of the intermediate and advanced enthusiast. Don’t be intimidated,however. There are also many slopes and schools of training for beginners.

4. Grindelwald - Next on my list is Grindelwald, which lies in the valley of Bernese Oberland, located very close to the middle of Swizterland. With over 120 miles of prime ski slopes, Grindelwald skiers have many different areas to choose from, most choose the Kleine Scheidegg for a fine sking experience. What sets this location apart from the others are the slopes accesabile only by helicopter. Griendwald has some of the best helicopter skiing in the world! In addition, you will be amazed to find that Grindelwald is a hub for activity. If you ever get tired of the slopes, (highley unlikely) Grindelwald is filled with museums, top notch golf courses, and a wide array of other adventure sports.

3. St. Moritz - Want to experience a resort full of rich history, world class lodging, and 300+ days of sunshine? If so, then St. Moritz is the place for you! Located in the far south east corner of Switzerland, St. Moritz is one of the most famous destinations in Switzerland. Beginners will enjoy the area of Corviglia where you will experience relatively easy slopes while advanced skiers will soak up the mind-numbing bliss of Pontresina. The view is said to be majestic. However, as with many of the other higher end resorts in Switzerland, be prepared to spend a bit of money!

2. Verbier – The runner up on my list of top places to ski in Switzerland is Verbier. As one of the more popular Swiss resorts in the Alps, the slopes can get a bit crowded during peak season. The slopes stay in pristine condition during the Spring months and make for a wonderful alternative to the sometimes overcrowded winter. The wide assortments of unique and challeneging courses suits both beginners and advanced skiers. Tortin has consistently been rated as a top draw for experts while the numerous ski training locations in Verbier create a fun atmosphere for the beginner. In addition, superb hotels, dining, sporting activities, and night life make Verbier one of the world’s top ski destinations and tourist attractions.

1. Zermatt – Heard of Zermatt? If you haven’t heard about Switzerland’s greatest ski resort, you have now! Skiing is a year round event in Zermatt. Enjoy the Sunegga and Gornergrat regions during the winter months and make your way over to the Theodul Glacier for a fine intermediate adventure during the warmer summer months. With great snow, a wide array of obstacles and challenges, and some of the cleanest,freshest air in the world,  Zermatt caters to just about everyone. In addition to incredible skiing, Zermatt features some of the most beautiful, natural ice skating rinks and many other adventure sporting activities such as climbing and paragliding. The world famous Matterhorn draws locals and tourists alike to scale this magnificent mountain. Nature lovers will appreciate the car-free resort with unbelieveable natural hiking trails. To visit Zermatt is said to have a Zen-like feel and this is why Zermatt is my top place to ski in Switzerland!

This month I want to do everything Top 10 related to European Travel. I’ll be posting various Top 10 lists for the full month of September. Hang on, cause here they come!

The Top 10 Italian Beaches and Coasts – “Beaches of Italy”

The biggest problem any traveler could face when picking a destination in Italy is that there are too many great places to visit, especially beaches. Italy offers a lot of great locations to visit along its coastline that combine culture with fun in the sun.

Italian Beach #10: Posada, Italy

Posada is located in Nuoro, an ancient town and the main center in the historical district. The 14th century castles are enough to bring any tourist to their knees. The culture in this coastal city is breathtaking and overwhelmingly beautiful. There are plenty of sights to see in Posada, and especially the beaches where you can relax after seeing all that Posada has to offer.

Italian Beach #9: Vendicari, Italy

At the costal paradise of Vendicari in Syracuse you can get in touch with nature. This gorgeous beach gives people the opportunity to walk along unpolluted and untouched beaches, this is the beach where you can see turtles lay their eggs and many different breeds of birds navigate to this coastal city, probably for the same reason tourists do. Its lush climate is a big plus for vacation goers.

Italian Beach #8: Salina, Italy

On the Aeolian Islands there is an island called Salina, above the sea with beach access. Volcanoes can be seen from every end of this city. In Salina, water sports are abundant; from water skiing to scuba diving, this city has plenty to offer. Water sports combined with Salina’s great selection of hotels and restaurants make this city an excellent vacation spot.

Italian Beach #7: Domus de Maria, Italy

In Domus de Maria,a popular attraction that brings tourists into Cagliari is the camping. In this city you will be able to camp on the beach in a tent, Vendors are everywhere so there is no need to bring your own camping supplies, just rent it at one of the many affordable vendors. Camping here hardly feels like camping, with crystal blue water and white sandy beaches you may never want to go back home.

Italian Beach #6: Castilglione della Pescaia, Italy

A beach in the Maremma countryside is Castilglione della Pescaia. This beach is a touch of old world living. A beautiful countryside surrounded by blue waters and gorgeous architecture is most famous for its untouched and unrivaled surroundings. In this coastal city you will be amazed by what you see, it is almost too much for the eyes to take. The Medieval castle located on the coast is a popular tourist destination and should be on everyone’s list of things to see.

Italian Beach #5: Capalbio, Italy

A beach well known for not being well known is Capalbio. It is an ancient village surrounded by Maremma countryside that has stayed just how it was for years. It is visited by many important people throughout the year because it is so private and has an atmosphere that is rich with the past. It is also a city famous for its hunting opportunities. It may be more expensive than other beaches but definitely worth the visit.

Italian Beach #4: Isola del Giglio, Italy

If you are looking for a great beach with a beautifully rich underwater life a truly natural selection for your beach destination is the Isola del Giglio, located on the Tuscany Coast. With its beautiful sandy beaches and surprisingly blue coves, it is just the place to relax on your next vacation. This beach is a popular tourist attraction but overwhelmingly popular, no floods of tourists.

Italian Beach #3: Taormina, Italy

Taormina is another beach in Sicily, well not just another beach but THE beach. The Italian North Beach Taormina is referred to as the jewel of Sicily and Italy and rightfully so. With the picturesque beaches and diverse activities happening all the time it really has something to offer everyone. From beaches to windsurfing with some wine tasting on the way, this coastal jewel is a right choice for any person.

Italian Beach #2: Mondello, Italy

If you’re looking for a coastal village where you can go to the beach during the day and then visit an array of restaurants, bars, and other unique shops then Mondello, in southern Italy right next to Palermo (One of Sicily’s largest cities), is an excellent choice. Mondello is very popular during the summer months because of its famous sporting events and excellent restaurants.

Italian Beach #1: San Vito Lo Capo, Italy

A good place to start for a blend of culture and fun in the sun is San Vito lo Capo, a beach that sits in the western coast of Sicily in Trapani. This island by the Sea is most famous for its national park called ”the Zingaro”, host to beautiful secluded beach. It is also well known for the houses right on the beach so fishermen can fish for tuna. This small coastal village is a beautiful place to visit to enjoy the surf and some turf. This is arguable the Best Italian Beach.

Picking a beach in Italian Coast can be somewhat difficult, so many to choose and so little time. With 90% of Italy being coast there is an endless array of beaches, each having something different to offer to tourists and local natives. If you have a desire, one of these beaches could fill it.