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Not many archaeological sites can claim they were founded by survivors from the Trojan War or that they were visited by Aeneas. Butrint can claim both. Butrint, located in southern Albania close to the Greek border, is the country’s best-known archaeological site. It also is on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.
by Philip Wagenaar, second of four parts
by Claus Hirsch, New York, NY
With many world travelers expanding their horizons beyond the popular tourist spots of Western Europe, increased attention is being paid to the former Soviet Republics and now-independent states of the former Yugoslavia.
I enjoyed reading Rick Steves’ article on culture shock (Dec. ’08, pg. 72). His comments on the Japanese bathing customs bear further discussion.
As to which was the world’s first revolving restaurant (Dec. ’08, pg. 63), several readers noted that the Seattle Space Needle opened at the World’s Fair in 1962.
Regarding the reader’s letter “Can Guidebooks Be Trusted” (Nov. ’08, pg. 24), I must add that I cannot trust them.
During our visit to Tel Aviv, Israel, Sept. 16-23, 2008, my husband, Jerry, and I ate at three wonderful restaurants that I want to share with ITN readers. Please note that reservations for these restaurants are definitely advised.
Helmsley, England, a gorgeous village in the Yorkshire Moors which we visited April 10-12, 2008, boasts an exceptional restaurant within the Black Swan Hotel (Market Place, Helmsley, YO62 5BJ, U.K.; phone 01144 1439 770466, www.blackswan-helmsley.co.uk). Andrew Burton, a chef of extraordinary talent, injects his magic into every evening repast.
“Nibbles” of anchovy straws, toasted almonds and cheese biscuits were presented before we perused the menu. Four different fresh-baked bread samples accompanied the 6-course meal.
My wife, Elissa, and I were in Rome Oct. 13-18, 2008, and reinforced our opinion that we had found a wonderful ristorante in a magical setting.
