KEY POINTS:
Can you suggest an ideal itinerary for two to three weeks in Mongolia? I'm
particularly interested in national parks, walks, wildlife - just nature and
great landscapes really. Matt Paynter
Wherever you're coming from, you will no doubt arrive in Ulaanbaatar. Even though you are keen to
head into the wild green yonder, we suggest you spend a few days exploring the cosmopolitan capital. Take in a performance of dance,
song, horse-head fiddles and contortionists at the National Academic Drama
Theatre. As for museums, the Museum of Natural History and the National
Museum of Mongolian History are best. Eclectic restaurants and cafes await
you here; head to Baga Toiruu west and Peace Ave. Seek out serenity in the
monastery courtyards and public squares.
From Ulaanbaatar head south to Dundov to see the eerie rock formations of Baga Gazryn Chuluu, the mountain peak and cave of Baga Gazryn Uul and the ruined 10th-century castle at Sum Khokh Burd. Large granite pinnacles and winding canyons make for great hiking.
Heading further south, allow at least three days to explore Omnogov and the
ice canyon at Yolyn Am, as well as the massive sand dunes at Khongoryn Els and
the dinosaur quarry at Bayanzag.
Now travel northwest to Khorgo-Terkhiin Tsagaan Nuur National Park, stopping at Erdene Zuu Khiid along the way to see Mongolia's oldest monastery. This region is great for swimming, fishing, hiking or horse riding. This is where you'll
find the Great White Lake amid volcanic craters and pine-clad lava fields.
Further to the north is the stunning Khovsgol Nuur National Park. The alpine lake here is known as the Blue Pearl of Mongolia. The area is home to argali
sheep, ibex, bear, sable, moose, a few wolverines and more than 200 species of
birds, as well as three separate peoples - the Darkhad, Buriat and Tsaatan. A hike around the lake is recommended, though horse treks are also a popular activity here. You'll need five to seven days to explore this beautiful area properly.
If you find yourself with more time, Eastern Mongolia offers a delightful romp through grasslands, forest, some unique historical sights and great wildlife (herds of 20,000-plus white-tailed gazelle).
Wandering in Europe
We have 17 days to spare before taking a cruise from Venice to Barcelona in July. Having never been to Europe before, we want to know where to go. We are
mainly interested in France and Italy, especially the Tuscany area and would
prefer not to do too much packing and unpacking. Wendy Cooper
No trip to Europe is complete without at least a few days in Paris, though you could easily spend all 17 days there and still not see all the best sights. Make time for at least a few museums but the best activity in Paris is just
wandering the streets, passing gorgeous markets and shops and breathing it
all in.
On to Italy. We suggest you base yourself in Siena or Lucca or, for something
quieter, Montalcino or Chianti, hire a car and make day trips. You could
also take the train. It's comfortable and efficient but a car allows you to get to those beckoning hill-top villages, the vineyards and olive groves, the most
authentic restaurants and markets and to stop wherever you like to take in
the views.
Highlights include the art museums and palaces of Florence, the wines of Chianti and Montalcino, walking in Il Mugello, cycling around the old city
walls of Lucca, Siena's ornate cathedral, the hot springs in Saturnia and the
unspoiled beauty of Parco Regionale della Maremma. Go to www.turismo.toscana.it for more information.
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