Liverpool

In the 1960s Liverpool became a centre of youth culture. The "Merseybeat" sound which became synonymous with The Beatles and fellow Liverpudlian pop bands of the era catapulted the city to the front of the popular music scene. Today, the city carries on that tradition and is known being an internationally known cultural centre in popular music, theatre and visual arts. In 2003, Liverpool was named European Capital of Culture for 2008. A series of cultural events during the years 2004-9 are planned, peaking in 2008.

If you're a fan of the Beatles, you'll definitely want to take to on the Beatles Magical Mystery Tour on a vintage 1967 bus that looks just like the one in the movie. The tour visits many of the places associated with John, Paul, George and Ringo as they grew up, met and formed the band. The tour stops at some of their childhood homes, schools and places that inspired some of their most memorable songs like Penny Lane and Strawberry Field. The professional guides are very entertaining and funny, and you'll spend much of the time laughing. The tour runs daily, but you'll want to book early to insure you get a spot.

You'll also want to see the Beatles Story Experience which is a huge visitor attraction featuring 18 separate features following the band from their early days to the height of their success. It has many Beatles items, including George Harrison's first guitar, which is on display for the first time in the UK, and the emotional and evocative feature 'Lenses of Lennon' where you can actually peer through his iconic round spectacles. It is open 7 days excluding Christmas and is open from 10AM to 6PM. The gift shop has many gifts for the Beatle fans back home.

You may also want to stop by Liverpool's World Museum featuring everything from artefacts that are millions of years old to a bug house that houses all sorts of creepy-crawlies. The museum also has an Aquarium containing fish from all parts of the world. Many of the museum's exhibits are hands on and provide an excellent learning environment for adults and children.

At the end of the day, you'll want to dine at one of the many wonder restuarants in the area. Liverpool's ethnic diversity has led to a wide range of dining choices. Being home to the oldest Chinese community, you can find many authentic Chinese restaurants.

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