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Hiking in the countryside around Maaloula/Saidnaya (micro-buses from Zablatani cost approximately 25SL/.25 pence for a 30km journey). It’s possible to stay at the convent at Maaloula for a nominal sum, but be sure to get there early. Also, don’t miss the last buses back to Damascus (about 8 pm, but check on this).

Deir Mar Mousa, near Nabak, 100 kms from Damascus. Hike there from Nabak through some astonishing valleys and landscape (but beware of the local shepherds’ guard dogs). The monastery is presided over by the Italian Father Paulo. He loves an audience. You can stay there but all donations are happily accepted.

Also, walking the disused railway line from the Hijaz railway station out into the Damascus countryside as far as Bloudan (about 6-8 hours of moderate walking) is a great way to get an idea of Damascus’ modern and ancient character. As you get to Wadi Souq al-Barada, after Tel El-‘Awaameedh, you can see carvings on the cliff walls dating back to the beginning of the Christian era, when this area was known as the Tetrarchy of Abilene).]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19357 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19352
We were really lucky to try the Hotel Felice Vatican Museum tours. If you are in Rome and planning to go to the Vatican museum this is the tour to take.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19352 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19349 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19349 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19345 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19345 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19343 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19343 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19335
The house is located on the Santa Teresa neighborhood, a place of poets, writers, musicians and painters which all are attracted by the rural landscape that is surrounded by the nice traditional architecture and the lovely climate.

It is a unique quarter in Rio de Janeiro that preserves the "bondinho" (the tram).]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19335 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19330 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19330 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19323 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19323 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19305 Three miles from Aberaeron, fifteen miles from Aberystwyth. Train and bus services available.
Clean and comfortable converted stables. Sleeps up to four. Full of character, £15 pp/pn.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19305 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19302 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19302 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19294 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19294 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19287 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19287 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19282 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19282 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19279 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19279 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19274 Probably equivalent of a B&B but good value for Marseille. All rooms are individually decorated.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19274 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19266
Even though it's on one of the main shopping streets, it's still relatively quiet as it's a few floors up and there's a concierge service to the block. The booking agent and the owners were really helpful, too. Here's a tip, though; if you speak to the owners Juan or his son Vicente, make sure you mention River Plate if you're going to talk football - they're definitely not Boca fans. It's only £150 per week (one bedroom, self-catering) and very clean/tidy with all necessary amenities. Oh, and it's opposite what used to be the Buenos Aires branch of Harrods.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19266 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19265 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19265 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19264
Book a catamaran tour with Catamaran Tours: the captain will take good care of you, the snorkeling is excellent, and you'll most likely spot dolphins.

Book Erwin for a personal tour: Erwin has the best stories in the world. Plus he knows the islands and their inhabitants inside and out.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19264 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19263
Eat at the Panamonte Inn in the fireplace room: nice ambience, the people watching is decent, and they serve great food for the money.

Drive to Cerro Punto and walk the trails in La Amistad National Park.]]> http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19263 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19261 http://www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/tips/19261