Travel Tips

Jul 26, 2011, 3:06 GMT

Brazil's oldest light tower opened to visitors

Brasilia (dpa) - The light tower of 17th-century fortress Forte Santo Antonioa da Barra in Salvador da Bahias on Brazil's north-eastern Atlantic sea-coast has been opened to visitors. It offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and the ocean, the local tourism authority reports. It is regarded as the oldest light tower in Brazil. The tower and the adjacent maritime shipping museum are open daily, except Mondays, from 8.30 am to 7 pm. Tickets for adults cost about 10 dollars (7 euros).

Gourmets invited to gather in Hong Kong

Hong Kong (dpa) - Gourmets are being invited to enjoy the culinary arts in Hong Kong next autumn. The 'Wine and Dine Festival' running October 27 to 30 will feature more than 200 booths providing visitors the opportunity to test food and wine specialties from various regions, the Hong Kong Tourism office says. Artists, dancers and multimedia light shows will add zest to the programme. In November, thematic tours of private wine cellars will be offered.

Marathon run in a South Seas setting

Noumea (dpa) - A marathon run in a South Seas setting is to be hosted by New Caledonia on August 21. The Pacific coastal route starts in the capital Noumea and ends at Sainte-Marie Bay, the tourism office reports. It will be the 29th edition of the international marathon (42.2 kilometres) hosted by the French island east of Australia. A half-marathon race will also be offered. Refreshments are provided every five kilometres. Foreign runners must present a doctor's certificate attesting to their fitness. Information: www.marathon.nc

Warsaw to fete Liszt, Mahler at this year's Chopin Festival

Warsaw (dpa) - This year's international Chopin Festival will put the focus on other composers, with particular emphasis on Franz Liszt, whose 200th birthday is being marked, and on Gustav Mahler, whose death centenary also falls this year. From August 16 to September 1, visitors can spend two weeks enjoying the performances of international pianists, orchestras and conductors, the Polish Tourism Authority says. Ticket prices range from about 9 to 15 dollars.

Bremen celebrates its maritime heritage with three-day port festival