EESTEC Magazine Vol 33 2013/2 | Page 50

Observer Nantes When it comes to describing a magni?cent city like “Nantes” there will be questions raised such as: How am I really going to portray the beauty of landscape and delicate architecture only using words so people can perceive it in the way it deserves?! Situated on Loire river, 50Km (30Mi) from the Atlantic coast, the city of Nantes is holding the title of European green capital in 2013. In 2004 Time magazine named Nantes the most livable city in Europe. There are wonderful historical architectures as “Chateau des duc de Bretagne”, “Catherale saint-pierre et saint-paul”, “Passage Pommeraye”, “Place Royale”, “Place Bouffay”, there are expressive histories behind these masterpieces. Of course Nantes is preserving more beautiful monuments and buildings and is having an amazing nature that would be an interesting destination for all who love the elegance. During the university season (From the middle of September until the end of May) international students instill an academic spirit to the city. Numerous universities and schools have made the city a charming home for all kind of students. Don’t forget to stop at the huge central square Georgiou with its great fountains. Visit Rio: In the suburbs of the city,and with a great view on the bridge of Patras,you can enjoy the beach all day long. There are many tavernas for you to have a traditional greek meal,have an ice cream in a “patisserie”,and last but not least don’t forget to go to a bar at night,to enjoy a cocktail looking at the lightened bridge. Mavrodafni: Staying in Patras without tasting Mavrodafni, it’s unforgivable! It is said that when a man had his heart broken by a girl with dark hair and eyes,he created this amazingblack (mavro) wine,in favor of his love to her and the pain in his heart. You have a chance to taste it in Achaia Clauss,a famous winery on the suburbs of the city. Observer Patras Patras is Greece's third largest city,and the regional capital of West Greece.Known as Greece's Gate to the West, Patras is a commercial hub with its busy port - a nodal point for trade and communication with Italy and the rest of Western Europe. The remarkable number of students adds to the city a notable character full of youth and vividness.This cosmopolitan center has a vibrant café and clubbing scene,but is also famous for supporting an indigenous cultural scene. Every year, in February, the city hosts one of Europe's largest and most colourful carnivals. The center of the city: Spend some time walking around the city,discovering it yourself. The commercial streets of the city are very vivid and crowded,if you are in for shopping this is a place to be. 50