Wales is proof that size is not everything. For such a small country, Wales certainly offers a first-class range of experiences, boasting dramatic mountains, spectacular seashores, rolling rivers, fresh green valleys and historic ruins, along with creative, contemporary culture in its cities.
The great outdoors always seems to beckon in Wales, whether you’re tempted by a windswept walk along seaside, cliffs, a tumble down the sand dunes, a surfboard in the sea, a hike up a challenging mountain or a more gentle wander through one of the sensational National Parks.
Sprinkled liberally throughout the Welsh countryside you will find Europe’s largest concentration of medieval fortresses, each of which bears witness to the harsh brutality of the Principality’s history.
The very name springs from the Anglo-Saxon term ‘waleas’, which means ‘foreigner’. It is indicative of the Welsh people’s pride in their own unique culture, language and heritage, all of which distinguish them from the neighbouring English. Just a glance at some of those seemingly unpronounceable place names suggests how very foreign Wales must have seemed to its early invaders. Although today it forms part of the United Kingdom, Wales is still subject to its own laws and regulations.
Its capital Cardiff combines traditional Welsh pursuits – the male voice choir, and a fierce love of rugby – with a cutting-edge culinary and cultural scene. Business travel in Wales centres on its capital.
Elsewhere, resort towns such as Llandudno, Swansea and Tenby provide elegant seaside escapes, whilst medieval fortifications such as Caernarfon and Conwy offer glimpses into Wales’ thousand-year history.
Yet it is in the countryside that Wales truly reveals itself. It is a land of nature and legend with stunning natural, unspoiled scenery that is protected by a series of expansive National Parks. Its headline attractions include majestic peaks such as the Brecon Beacons and Mount Snowdon.
For lovers of nature and the great outdoors Wales can be the perfect destination.
Climate
Wales has a temperate climate, and is similar to the rest of the UK in its propensity for rather unpredictable weather.
Coastal areas are warm in summer, although the country as a whole receives more rain and less sunshine than England.
May to August is the best time to travel to Wales, as it is more likely to be sunny and dry. The highest monthly average temperature in Tenby, on the popular south coast, is July’s 61 degrees Celsius (16 degrees Fahrenheit), which drops to 6 degrees Celsius (43 degrees Fahrenheit) in the chilliest month of January.
Language
English is the official language, though you will find it spoken with a variety of regional accents. Welsh is increasingly being used once again.
Passport Visa
Wales is part of the United Kingdom, which is in the process of leaving the EU. You need a valid passport to enter the United Kingdom, though EU nationals may – for the time being, at least – gain entry holding only a valid national ID card. You may need a visa to stay in the country for more than six months. You are advised to hold return tickets in order to avoid delays. Please check rules around visa requirements before you travel, as they may change regularly.
Safety
Overall, travellers can expect relative safety in Wales however, the threat of street crime demands all the usual precautions in the cities.
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