Europe

[Visited: August 2004]

Manchester was founded by the Romans and reached its height of importance with the cotton industry in the 19th century, which anyway was Britain's age. After that, decline set in, and for a long time Manchester has been synonymous to unemployment, old dark buildings falling apart, 20th century depression. But the city has reinvented itself, and it has now transformed itself into a modern conglomerate, attractive to different kinds of visitors.
Manchester has various completely different quarters that can cater to almost anyone's taste. There are shopping areas, most notably Arndale and Market street, the Deansgate area, and Exchange square and surroundings. Then there is Chinatown, which actually contains many Far Eastern restaurants, but is not as Chinese as you might expect. Then there is Piccadilly Gardens, which actually is more like a square, where people flock for a rest and children play in the fountains. From here, it is not far to the Northern Quarter and the famous Afflecks Palace.
These areas, in fact most of Manchester's city centre are all in walking distance for the avid walker. Actually, walking around, as always, makes you discover little corners of the city that would otherwise go unnoticed. Another pleasant area to go for a walk, a run or just sit down in a bar is the Canal running through the southern city. All in all, as long as the weather is nice, Manchester offers more than you might expect.

Around the World in 80 Clicks

Personal travel impressions both in words and images from Manchester (United Kingdom). Clicking on the pictures enlarges them and enables you to send the picture as a free e-card or download it for personal use, for instance, on your weblog. Or click on the map above to visit more places close to Manchester.
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