Swedish Medical Center

Fall 2013

Spirit of Women magazine is a national publication presented to women by hospitals and their physicians. The magazine provides up-to-date, evidence-based healthcare information and promotes our hospitals as leaders in women's health excellence.

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O N T H E R O A D Off the beaten path: The top 6 lesser-known European capitals By Elizabeth Brewster SHUTTERSTOCK W hether you're planning your first visit to Europe or your 50th, it pays to seek out the continental capitals with sidewalks that are less trod. London, Paris and Rome are all wonderful destinations, of course, but lesserknown capital cities can offer many of the same attractions with fewer hassles. "They can be a lot less touristy and crowded than some of the more famous capital cities," says Cameron Hewitt, guidebook writer and lead editor for Rick Steves' guidebooks. "It's easier to get around, and I find in a town that's less well-known, local people are more appreciative. They're flattered you're taking an interest." Even in a smaller country, says Hewitt, the capital city is where it's at, showcasing the nation's top cultural institutions, palaces, national museums and oftentimes a major university. "It's a great way to be exposed to different facets of a culture, and it's very efficient to do that in a capital city," says Hewitt. Here are six capital cities that travel experts say are well worth adding to your European travel itinerary. 1. BRUSSELS, BELGIUM Why go: Ornate architecture, chocolate, Christmas markets DonÕt miss: Grand Place, the city's beautiful main square 2. COPENHAGEN, DENMARK Why go: Tivoli Gardens, smorgasbords, Hans Christian Andersen sites DonÕt miss: Open-air canal boat cruise to savor memorable architecture both old and new 3. LISBON, PORTUGAL Why go: Hilltop vistas, fado music, Moorish architecture DonÕt miss: Traditional fishermen's quarters known as the Alfama, with steep, twisty lanes and quaint buildings 4. LJUBLJANA, SLOVENIA Why go: Baroque buildings, goulash, historic bridges DonÕt miss: Lively outdoor cafes lining the banks of the Ljubljanica River in the heart of town 5. LUXEMBOURG CITY, LUXEMBOURG Why go: Dramatic river gorges, old city walls, Gen. George Patton's gravesite DonÕt miss: Picturesque old town and historic fortifications set in a stunning natural environment 6. RIGA, LATVIA Why go: Art Nouveau architecture, 2014 European Capital of Culture city, Museum of the Occupation of Latvia DonÕt miss: Colorful Central Market with its five pavilions in former Zeppelin hangars • w w w. s p i r i t o f w o m e n . c o m FA L L 2 013 SPI RIT O F WOM EN 29

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