Escape the madness of the city to a strange place, like an ancient lost city, damp and shaded, hidden on South Park Street in Kolkata. The gatekeeper to the British Cemetery will open the huge metal gates for a small donation and let you into a different world, a quiet tree filled oasis, where the huge graves themselves will tell the story of the Raj and The East India Company.
Here you will find Anglicised versions of Cenotaphs dating back to the 17th century. More than 800 old tombs remain of the original 2000, which will take your breath away. Wander through this eerie place and think about the many British who eventually succumbed to accidents, illness and disease, often at a very young age while the early Imperial outposts were being established.
Take time to ponder about how difficult their lives must have been before emerging back into the chaos of Kolkata.
www.christianburialboardkolkata.com/archaeology.html
65 Park Street, Park Street, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016, India
+91 33 2217 2861
Google map: bit.ly/SDsIRn
Tallin, the jewel in Estonia's crown, is worthy of a visit in the autumn, for it's never ending magic. The incredibly beautiful buildings, silhouetted against the autumn skies can take your breath away when looking westwards from the numerous vantage points along the compact old city walls. Towers, domes, turrets all glow with the colour of the sunset skies. Eat outside around the old square, wrapped in the fleeces and sheepskins provided, under heaters, and watch the magic of the old town light up in front of your eyes, while eating a hearty stew. Stroll around the ancient streets and alleyways to cosy basement bars, fires blazing, while picking up beautifully made Estonian gifts on the way.
www.tourism.tallinn.ee/eng
Google map: bit.ly/RA4HfX
Hvar, a fairy tale island, is a unique fusion of luxury, history, culture, scenery, lavender, fun, food and atmosphere. Facing south onto the sea just gives it that touch of perfection, with the added bonus of having an entirely traffic free centre, only frequented by silent electric delivery carts, local ferries and luxury yachts.
Once an important port within the Venetian naval empire, today it is a town of smiling and courteous locals who just love to have fun and make visitors welcome.
After an exhausting day of sun-bathing and swimming in the crystal clear sea, wander and admire the stunning architecture, climb the steep hill to the impressive 16th century fortress above the old city, explore the passageways and stairways or just sit and watch the world go by with a coffee in the beautiful old square overlooking the harbour.
Good food is an unavoidable part of Hvar’s tradition. Fresh fish, home-made olive oil, a pinch of local herbs and a glass of good wine – all served in the atmospheric restaurants throughout the town. The people of Hvar live long and happy lives.
End the day at the ancient theatre or a lively disco.
For the romantics try a walk along the beautifully lit promenades, through the trees by the sea and look out to the twinkling lights of the stars and the ships anchored out in the bay.
This is as near to heaven as you can get.
www.tzhvar.hr/en/
Google map: bit.ly/LlzMhM
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