text:
Frankfurt Airport

Frankfurt Airport (German: Flughafen Frankfurt am Main; ) is the largest airport in Germany and a global aviation hub on the outskirts of Frankfurt am Main in the state of Hesse.

Understand

Frankfurt Airport is among the busiest in Europe, fourth in passenger traffic after London Heathrow Airport, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport; it is also the twelfth busiest airport in the world. This is due to various factors: Frankfurt is Germany's financial capital, and is centrally between western Germany's major metropolitan regions (the Ruhr and Munich).

Frankfurt is the main hub of German flag carrier Lufthansa. Lufthansa and the airport have had a symbiotic relationship for decades and both have grown enormously as a result. Lufthansa holds some shares in the airport, with most of it still publicly owned (Lufthansa was fully privatized in the 1990s but retains informal political connections). Most of Lufthansa's long-haul flights originate or terminate in Frankfurt. Many other airlines also serve the airport, including almost all other Star Alliance carriers. Easyjet and Wizz Air are the no frills airlines with a minor presence at the airport; Ryanair no longer operates here. Lufthansa still flies all domestic routes to and from Frankfurt despite having transferred other domestic routes to its subsidiary Eurowings. Lufthansa also uses some ICE trains from Stuttgart and Cologne as "feeder flights" to the airport as part of its air rail alliance with Deutsche Bahn.

Terminals
The airport has two terminals, with a third scheduled to open in 2026. Frankfurt Airport is still in the same place where it was built in the 1930s, and the main Terminal 1 opened in 1972. This means capacity increases have been achieved by constantly improving and expanding existing infrastructure, so Frankfurt Airport is in many ways quite compromised and not as efficient or pleasant as newer German airports, such as Munich Airport.

All Airlines A-Z Terminals Halle on Airport Frankfurt Airport

Terminal 1
Terminal 1 is separated into Concourses A (inside Schengen passport control), Z (the level on top of A, Non-Schengen passport control), B and C (which seems to be for certain destinations with higher security requirements such as Israel, with the exception of Schengen gate C1). Be aware that if you are changing planes to an international flight on a Z gate, you will be required to go through a checkpoint where you present your passport before you get to the concourse.

Terminal 1 is a multi-level maze with poor signage. Level 1 is arrivals, Level 2 check-in and departure, Level 3 is an access bridge to hotels and the long-distance rail station, Level 0 has access to parking, below which is the regional rail station. Lufthansa tries to reduce confusion for Business Class passengers (and Gold & Silver Star Alliance card holders): they have a designated check-in area in Terminal 1 A. First class passengers of Lufthansa and Swiss, as well as Lufthansa HON Circle card holders, are allowed to check-in in the |separate first class terminal on the right side of Terminal 1, which has its own driveway. All Star Alliance economy class travellers and other Star Alliance partners are checked in in Terminal 1B & 1C.

Departures

 * Terminal 1: Schengen flights use gates A and B1-B19. Non-Schengen flights depart from gates Z (access from Level 3 after passport control, utilizes the same A gates), B20-B63 (access from B concourse passing the Schengen gates) and C.
 * Terminal 2: Departures is on zone D and E at levels 2 and 3. If you are travelling on a non-Schengen flight, you must clear passport control at Level 3 and the securities are right before the gates.

If you have difficulty walking, request assistance getting to the departure gate, it can be up to a kilometer away. Once you pass the passport control for non-Schengen flights, you will not be able to return to the Schengen area.

 * You can check on departures in real time at: Departures Frankfurt Airport

Arrivals
Not all planes park at a gate and you will often have to take a bus to get you from the plane to the terminal. If you are in a hurry, rushing off the plane does not always make things quicker, being last on the bus standing next to the door is key. Sometimes for flights with tight connection times you have to take a different bus from the tarmac.

If you are a frequent user of Terminal 1B you can make passport control quicker by applying for retina recognition. Next to passport manual check control, where there are often long queues, there is a machine which can scan your passport and then your eyes. To register there is an office in the corner of Terminal 1 landside, section A level 2. Terminal 1Z has automatic face recognition machines which will work with new European passports.

On arriving at Terminal 1Z and 1B do not be surprised to have to ascend and descend many stairs, or with Terminal 1A expect a long walk. When coming into 1B you enter the main concourse before baggage claim. Look for the escalators heading down in the middle of hall B.

 * You can check on arrivals in real time at: Arrivals Frankfurt Airport

Terminal transfers
All concourses at both terminals are connected (both landside and airside) by a free Sky Train (monorail). There is also a free shuttle bus. Luggage carts are not allowed on the Sky Train.

The transfer between Terminal 1 and 2 on foot takes around 15 minutes.

Ground transportation
Situated in the center of Germany, the airport has good connections to the whole country and is a stepping stone to other parts of Europe and the world.

By train
Frankfurt airport has two dedicated railway stations, one for regional trains (S-Bahn, RE) and one for long-distance high-speed trains (ICE/IC). Regional trains from Frankfurt and other local towns come into the Regionalbahnhof on the lowest level of Terminal 1 and have two sets of escalators to check-in. Long distance trains arrive at the international station which is connected to Terminal 1 by a walkway (5 to 10 minutes).

Regional trains
The regional train station,, with convenient connections to the city of Frankfurt and other local towns and cities, is on the lowest level of Terminal 1 (entrances in section A and B).

To get to the city with the S-Bahn (fast commuter train), take lines or  in the direction of Offenbach Ost and Hanau. If you want to go downtown, get off at Frankfurt Taunusanlage, Frankfurt Hauptwache or Frankfurt Konstablerwache, which are in the heart of the city. If you want to change to long-distance trains get off at Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof (Frankfurt Central Station) or Frankfurt Südbahnhof (Frankfurt South Station). The ride from the airport to the central station takes around 20 minutes. Be sure to purchase a ticket at the vending machines in the train station before boarding the train. The adult ticket costs €5.80 and €3.40 for children (April 2023). Day tickets are usually profitable up from the second travel within the respective zones. Check the RMV webpage and Frankfurt for journey and ticket details.

To get to the airport with the S-Bahn, take the S8 or S9 in the direction of Wiesbaden or Mainz. Don't take the  — while it has the same general direction and leaves the central station at the same platform, it will go along the wrong side of the river Main. The line S1 does not stop at the airport.

Regional-Express trains (RE) to Mainz, Frankfurt Hbf, Frankfurt-Süd and Hanau stop at the same place as the S-Bahn.

Long-distance trains
The long-distance train station,, was built after the Regionalbahnhof when traffic levels grew beyond the capacities of the latter. It is one of only two train stations in Germany only served by long-distance (Intercity and ICE) trains. The station is in a separate structure reached via a walkway above Hall A at Terminal 1 check-in hall or shuttle bus from Terminal 2. The walk to the terminals is marginally longer than from the regional station, but this is balanced by the numerous direct connections to places as far away as Munich, Amsterdam and Basel. There's also an Austrian Nightjet sleeper train two nights a week, north to Brussels and south to Vienna, Munich and Innsbruck.

After disembarking from the train and following the signs of the airport, turn right for the Level 3 and the check-in halls of Terminal 1 or turn left for the shuttle to Terminal 2 and the arrival level of Terminal 1.

By car
The airport is in the south-west quadrant of Frankfurter Kreuz the Autobahn intersection of the A3 and A5; the busiest motorway intersection in Europe.

Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are reached by separated exits of the (B)43. Drop off is possible in-front of both terminals just outside of check-in halls; simply follow the signs for the required terminal (Departure:Abflug, Arrivals:Ankunft), but there is a 15-minute limit on waiting which is controlled and it is often very difficult to find a space.

For parking in Terminal 1: P1 is closest to check-in (5 minutes walk) being only one floor above or below entry to the main complex. P2/3 and P5 are also close but add an extra 5 minutes waiting for the elevator. Parking for Terminal 2 is conveniently under the check-in hall. Special parking spaces are available for barrier-free travel (P4 and P8), women (P1-5 and P8) and motorcycles (free parking near arrival hall C). Vehicles taller than 2.10 m will not fit into the regular parking facilities – use the bus parking at P36 instead. Be aware that individual parking spaces tend to be quite narrow (between 2.30 and 2.50 m). If you need extra width, consider using the slightly more expensive P1 and P4.

Although the long distance rail station and Hilton hotel can be clearly seen from the Autobahn, getting to them is not self-explanatory. To park there follow signs to The Squaire and take a short monorail trip. If you're just dropping someone off, go westbound on the B 43, just after the Terminal 2 exit get in the far left lane.

There is also holiday parking south of the airport on Airportring and a number of private long-stay parking facilities in surrounding towns and suburbs of Frankfurt such as in Frankfurt-Niederrad.

Occasionally the Autobahn is clogged with traffic. A few tips for getting round the jams:
 * From the north if hold-ups on the A5 or from the north-west if the A3 is blocked, take the A66 to the (B)40 direction Kelsterbach. This road will get you to the access roads, K823 Airportring, from where you can get to the terminals.
 * From west if the A67/A3 is block and from the south if the A5 is blocked take the (B)486 to Mörfelden. Take Virolles-Ring, the first(last) road on the west of the village. This will get you to Airportring, but as it has to go round the runway and has a number of speed cameras on the route only use if the autobahn is a total standstill.
 * From the East when the A3 is busy there is little alternative; the only possibility is to head into Frankfurt and get onto the (B)43 from there.

By rental car
Most major car rental companies have offices in Terminal 1 level 0 section A and in Terminal 2 just after arrivals baggage exit.

If you are new to driving in Germany, this is a baptism of fire. The airport is at the crossroads of the A3 and A5 providing you with good access to all of Germany and Central Europe.

Car return is to the airport parking: for Terminal 1 P30; for Terminal 2 P8. There is an Esso fuel station hidden on the traffic island off the B43 exit to Terminal 2 and a Shell on Airportring west of Terminal 1, neither of which you will find using the normal approaches to the airport. Unfortunately there are no other fuel stations near the airport so best to refuel at the service stations on the autobahns or head into a nearby town such as Frankfurt, Rüsselsheim, Kelsterbach or Langen if you have time.

By bus
Take bus line 61 to Frankfurt Südbahnhof (Frankfurt South Station).

Some European long distance buses and Intercity buses in Germany (e.g. Flixbus) stop at the airport although more serve a stop closer to Frankfurt's main station. The pick-up and drop off point is car park P36 which is outside just north east of Terminal 1 (arrivals level). It is within walking distance of Terminal 1, there are also airport shuttle buses to and from the area to the terminals. At the airport bus station there is only a small toilet area and an outside seating area.

There are some airport shuttles, particularly to/from Hahn.

Get around

This is a large airport to walk around on both sides of border control. If you are looking for shops and restaurants landside of border control, consider that that the closest options may be on one of the levels above or below you in both terminals.

There is a people mover and a bus between Terminals 1 and 2. When changing terminals by bus make sure to use the yellow terminal shuttle buses, as they are free of charge. There are public buses that connect both terminals on their way to Frankfurt or other surrounding cities, however to ride them you need a valid ticket. Getting caught on one of these buses without a ticket will result in a €60 fine. If you are unsure about the buses, the "SkyLine" people mover is always free of charge.

If you are departing with a non-Schengen flight, in Terminal 1 you will have to first go through security and will find yourself at the Schengen terminal, after which you will have to pass passport control which leads to the non-Schengen part of the airport.

Lounges
These lounges are also accessible to all passengers for a fee:

Airline lounges include the following:

Terminal 1
Lufthansa operates multiple lounges in each concourse for its premium class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members, in addition to premium travelers and frequent flyers of fellow Star Alliance carriers. Economy class passengers of Lufthansa can also utilize the lounge for a fee, with the exception of the First Class Lounge. There is one other lounge catering to other airlines:

Terminal 2
Lufthansa has at least one lounge in each terminal area for Star Alliance gold members and a few that are available to silver frequent traveller members. Some have luggage lockers and shower facilities.

Other amenities

Terminal 2 has surprisingly little shopping, eating and other entertainment amenities after the security check if you are departing from the European ("Schengen") gates; just a cafe, a quite small tax free shop, a newspaper kiosk and some automats where you can buy coffee or snacks. In other words, it is a fairly boring place to spend hours waiting for your plane. If you are departing on a flight that leaves Europe, there are several options to choose from.

Longer stays
If your layover is very long, you may be interested in the nearby bird reserve, the Schwanheimer Düne (Dunes of Schwanheim).

Terminal 1
There are many possibilities both sides of border control in Terminal 1. Airside of Terminal 1 section B has a reasonable choice (after passport control, up one set of escalators); there are numerous sandwich places on the airside of A, and though the selection on the airside of C and Z is more limited, there are still good choices. Landside of Terminal 1 there are a number of choices on level 2 and level 0. For example:

Frankfurt(M) Flughafen Fernbahnhof - Squaire
On the floor above the station platforms there are a number of coffee bars and bakeries. Another floor higher you can find a Paulaner German restaurant, Little Italy, an Alex and Jing Jing Asia Restaurant.

Buy
ATMs are scattered around the airport, with several in the check-in and arrivals concourse.

There are a number of fashion shops, newsagents and a pharmacy in Terminal 1 landside, level 2 concentrated in area B and towards A. There is a new shopping area including the Tegut supermarket on level 0. As this is the only place open a Sunday in the area it is also useful for emergency purchases. There are the typical duty free and luxury shops airside of Terminal 1 in areas B and Z.

Connect
Wireless Internet access is available from Telekom. You get 24 hours of free internet (renewable every 24 hours) by filling a simple form with your name and e-mail address. This information is not checked, so any combination of numbers and letters will suffice. Broadband access can be obtained from other providers (for a fee).

Cope
Terminal 1 has public showers for €6 (includes towel, foot mat, shower gel, and hair dryer). One location is in the B Departures area, in the Shopping Boulevard, across from "TUMI". The other is in the secure area of B Concourse (good for transit passengers), Level 2, near gate B 30 and the duty free shopping.

There is luggage storage in both terminals for €7 per bag per day.

Sleep

There are three hotels within the airport complex and a fourth that is on the grounds but requires a bus transfer. There are four more nearby, a bit of a hike the other side of the Autobahn (it's best to take a taxi if you have luggage), while the neighborhoods of Frankfurt-Niederrad, Frankfurt-Süd, Kelsterbach, Neu-Isenburg, Mörfelden, Langen, Raunheim and Rüsselsheim are all close to the airport, and many hotels in these areas offer airport shuttles.

Other nearby hotels
Gateway Gardens is an expanding development on the edge of the airport, one station away using the S-Bahn bound for Frankfurt. Can be reached via hotel buses or a short S-Bahn trip. Although they are not far from the airport, walking is not recommended because the complex and busy road system in the area lacks sidewalks.

Niederrad
Many hotels billed as "Frankfurt Airport" are in the district of Frankfurt-Niederrad between the airport and city proper.

Frankfurt-Niederrad S-bahn is just three stations away from the airport station (and on some regional trains is the only stop before the city centre). The hotels are within walking distance of the train station, but most at a distance you would not want to drag a suitcase.

Nearby
Mainz and its surrounding area is a more pleasant area to stay than the airport's environs but it is on the other side of the Rhine, and the limited bridge crossings could lead to your being stuck in a traffic jam on your way back to the airport - potentially problematic for morning flights. However there are direct and reliable train connections to the airport, making Mainz nearly as convenient as Frankfurt.

If your final destination is not Frankfurt but another city in Germany it is often better to take the train than get a connecting flight. In bad weather the first thing that happens is that inland flights are stopped. Also check with your airline (or with Deutsche Bahn) whether they offer rail&fly, which means that your plane ticket includes a train ride both to and from your airport in Germany connecting to any train station in Germany as well as Basel (CH) and Salzburg (AT). This is often the cheapest and most comfortable option and sometimes even faster overall.

If you have a connecting flight that is cancelled due to strike or bad weather check with your airline or with Deutsche Bahn whether they have a good for train agreement in place. Domestic connections should not be a problem at all, but they can sometimes offer you inner-European connections as well. If you have reason to believe that you will be held up for two or more days even long distance train rides become an option if they are available with your ticket. Some airlines offer this service for flights to and from Germany but others don't, so check in advance. More information at rail air alliances.

title: Frankfurt Airport


text:
Frankfurt an der Oder

Frankfurt (Oder)  (Previously known as: Frankfurt an der Oder or sometimes Frankfurt/Oder) is on the Oder River in Brandenburg, a state of Germany. It lies directly on the border with Poland, and is connected via bridge to its Polish sister city Slubice. The city is occasionally mistaken to be the much larger, and more well-known Frankfurt am Main.

Get in
100 km east of Berlin and 470 km west of Warsaw.

By plane
Frankfurt (Oder) doesn't have an airport. The closest ones would be those of Berlin, which are probably your best options. On the Polish side, Poznan has a limited selection of flights.

By car
Take the A 12 from Berlin

Get around
There is a local bus as well as a streetcar system but the town isn't all that big so it's easy to walk everywhere.

Cope
Frankfurt has potentially a lot to offer for a day visit, although you will need to speak German to take advantage. Given that the town was very deep in the former GDR there are limited numbers of English speakers available.

Go next

 * Słubice across the river in Poland.
 * Spreewald
 * Cottbus
 * Berlin

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Frankfurt an der Oder


text:
Franklin

There is more than one place called Franklin:

Australia

 * Franklin (Tasmania) a town in the Huon and Far South, Tasmania

United States of America

 * Franklin (Alabama) - a town in Macon County, Alabama.
 * Franklin (Arkansas) - a town in Izard County, Arkansas.
 * Franklin (Connecticut) - a town in New London County, Connecticut.
 * Franklin (Georgia) - a city in Heard County, Georgia.
 * Franklin (Idaho) - a city in Franklin County, Idaho.
 * Franklin (Illinois) - a village in Morgan County, Illinois.
 * Franklin (Indiana) - a city in Johnson County, Indiana.
 * Franklin (Iowa) - a city in Lee County, Iowa.
 * Franklin (Kentucky) - a city in Simpson County, Kentucky.
 * Franklin (Louisiana) - the parish seat of St. Mary Parish, Louisiana.
 * Franklin (Maine) - a town in Hancock County, Maine.
 * Franklin (Massachusetts) - a city in Norfolk County, Massachusetts.
 * Franklin (Michigan), village in Oakland County, Michigan.
 * Franklin (Minnesota) - a city in Renville County, Minnesota.
 * Franklin (Missouri) - a city in Howard County, Missouri.
 * Franklin (Nebraska) - a city in Franklin County, Nebraska.
 * Franklin (New Hampshire) - a city in Merrimack County, New Hampshire.
 * Franklin (New Jersey) - a borough in Sussex County, New Jersey.
 * Franklin, New York (two locations):
 * Franklin (Delaware County) - a town in Delaware County, New York (state).
 * Franklin (Franklin County) - a town located in southeast Franklin County, New York (state).
 * Franklin (North Carolina) - a town located in Franklin Township, North Carolina.
 * Franklin (Ohio) - a city in Warren County, Ohio.
 * Franklin, Pennsylvania (two locations):
 * Franklin (Cambria County) - a borough in Cambria County, Pennsylvania.
 * Franklin (Venango County) - a city in Venango County, Pennsylvania.
 * Franklin (Tennessee) - a city in Williamson County, Tennessee and a suburb of Nashville.
 * Franklin (Texas) - a city in Robertson County, Texas.
 * Franklin (Vermont) - a town in Franklin County, Vermont.
 * Franklin (Virginia) - a city in Virginia.
 * Franklin (West Virginia) - a town in Pendleton County, West Virginia.
 * Franklin, Wisconsin (six locations):
 * Franklin (Jackson County) - a town in Jackson County, Wisconsin.
 * Franklin (Kewaunee County) - a town in Kewaunee County, Wisconsin.
 * Franklin (Manitowoc County) - a town in Manitowoc County, Wisconsin.
 * Franklin (Milwaukee County) - a city in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin.
 * Franklin (Sauk County) - a town in Sauk County, Wisconsin.
 * Franklin (Vernon County) - a town in Vernon County, Wisconsin

See also: Franklin County.

title: Franklin


text:
Franklin (Indiana)

Franklin is a city and southern suburb of Indianapolis in the Nine-County Region of Indiana, home to Franklin College and an aesthetic Colonial Revival city hall.

Do

 * The Historic Artcraft Theatre, 57 N Main St. Nostalgic theater. +1 317-736-6823

Eat
Cheeseburger at the Grill Bar, Pizza at Richard’s, Wings at the Willard.
 * Ritter's Frozen Custard - Franklin, 351 N Morton St. The original of this franchise.

Sleep

 * Ashley-Drake Historic Inn and Gardens, 668 E Jefferson St. Like staying in a house from The Wonder Years. +1 317-736-0199

title: Franklin (Indiana)


text:
Franklin (Kentucky)

Franklin is a city in Kentucky's Caves and Lakes region. In the mid-2000s, the community of Franklin was honored as one of the "50 Best Small Southern Towns."

Get in
18 miles south of Bowling Green, I-65 Exits 2 or 6. The nearest airport is Nashville International, 40 miles south on I-65 (off of I-40).

Events

 * Red River Meeting and Rendezvous About 1.3 miles west of Schochoh +1 270 586-7632. Enjoy living history at the Red River Meeting House; celebrate the commemoration of the "Second Great Awakening" in America in the early 1800s, beginning in Logan Co., KY. Camp in a place of rare beauty and peace. Participate in a variety of camp activities including reenacting the time period of 1800 with period clothing, cooking over open fires, music, games, and traders with wares for sale. There will be church services, history lessons, exhibits, cemetery tours, and various demonstrations. This is a great place and time for children to learn and play. No camp fee; service animals only; no water or electric hookup for modern tents and campers. Firewood and water furnished.
 * Festival on the Square Fair and car show on Courthouse Square. Mid-September. +1 270 586-7609

Drink
The city of Franklin is referred to as "moist", allowing alcohol sales only by the drink in larger restaurants (seating at least 100). The rest of Simpson County is completely dry.

Connect

 * Simpson County Tourism Commission 81 Steele Rd, PO Box 737, Franklin, 42135 +1 270 586-3040 or +1-866-531-2040. At I-65 off Exit 2 (US 31W).

By phone
Most telephone numbers in Franklin consist of +1 270 plus a seven-digit number, but the region is now served by an overlay complex of two area codes, with +1 364 being the second. A local or in-state telephone call now requires all 10 digits of the local number be dialed (omitting just the leading +1 from a local landline call).

Signage on many established businesses may still display the original seven-digit numbers; dial 270 before these if no area code is indicated.

Go next

 * Mammoth Cave National Park
 * Bowling Green
 * Nashville

title: Franklin (Kentucky)


text:
Franklin (Massachusetts)

Franklin is a city of 37,000 in Massachusetts.

Bellingham is a town with a population of 17,000 (2020). Birthplace of noted author William Taylor Adams, also known as Oliver Optic.

Medway is a town with a population of 13,000 (2020). Birthplace of famed U.S. outdoorsman John "Grizzly" Adams.

Millis is a town with a population of 8,000 (2020). Home to the Sikh Temple, Guru Ram Das Ashram and Gurdwara.

Norfolk is a town with a population of 12,000 (2020).

Wrentham is a town with a population of 12,000 (2020). Famous for its premium outlet mall shopping and the home of Hellen Keller.

Get in
MBTA operates commuter rail service from Boston.

Go next
Providence and Boston are within a 40 minute drive without traffic.

title: Franklin (Massachusetts)


text:
Franklin (New Hampshire)

Franklin is a city in New Hampshire.

Do
O'Dell Park

title: Franklin (New Hampshire)


text:
Franklin (Ohio)

Franklin is a city in Warren County, Ohio.

By car
Franklin lies at the intersection of I75 and SR73.

By bike
The Great Miami River Recreation Trail connects to Miamisburg.

title: Franklin (Ohio)


text:
Franklin (Tennessee)

Franklin is a city of 81,000 people (2018) in Tennessee, just a few miles south of Nashville.

There are two main areas of interest. One is the Cool Springs area, which is identified by its corporate and retail growth surrounding one of the largest malls in the Southeast, the CoolSprings Galleria. The other is historic downtown Franklin which retains much of its small town charm. It is a walkable, friendly historic downtown district, recognized as a Great American Main Street.

Get in
The south end of Main Street, sometimes referred to as Five Points, is joined by Highways 431 (Lewisberg Pike) and 31 (Columbia Pike) from the South, and Hillsboro Road and Franklin Road from Nashville. Franklin Road turns into Main Street in downtown. If traveling from interstate 65, take exit 68, Cool Springs Blvd. and head west until it dead ends into Mack Hatcher. Turn right, then the first left which is Franklin Road. This will bring you past The Factory at Franklin and into the public square in downtown Franklin. If you want more information when you arrive, there is a visitor center on Main Street in a tiny, historic building called McPhail, across from Baskin Robbins.

Get around
Downtown Franklin can easily be explored by foot. Main Street is the primary location for store fronts, but the various side streets also offer shopping and dining.

 * Franklin Trolley Tours. Also known as Hello Trolley, runs through various areas of interest including Cool Springs, Downtown Franklin, and The Factory. +1 615-522-8007

Go next

 * Nashville is roughly 15 to 20 minutes north via Interstate 65
 * Leiper's Fork

title: Franklin (Tennessee)


text:
Franklin (Venango County)

Franklin is a city in Venango County, in the Erie Region of Pennsylvania. Franklin, Titusville and Oil City, make up the Oil Region. Although the town remains rather quiet, the oil boom has left the city with many historic buildings. The architectural features range from Victorian to Gothic Revival; it is said that all of the architectural styles used in the state from 1830 to 1930 can be observed in Franklin. The Appalachian Mountains and forests that surround the area also make it a popular destination for hikers and bikers looking to get out of the cities to experience nature.

Understand
Franklin was founded in 1741 by the French during the French and Indian War, where French Creek meets the Allegheny River. When the British saw the French had built a fort, they sent George Washington, who would later become the nation's first president, to tell the French that the territory had already been claimed by the British. The French refused, and proceeded to amass an army (including local Indians) to attack Fort Pitt and Fort Dusquesne in modern Pittsburgh. When the British began to attack Fort Niagara, the French were forced to send their troops north and the territory was claimed by the British. After American independence from Great Britain, the layout of the city was redesigned by Andrew Ellicott, who also helped design the layout of Washington, D.C. With the discovery of oil in nearby Titusville in 1859, wealthy oil tycoons moved to Franklin, quickly changing Franklin from an unknown to a wealthy, bustling town. With large fires consuming the oil fields in 1892 and 1894, the wealthy dispersed as quickly as they had come.

Climate
Located in America's northeastern region, all four seasons can be experienced in Franklin. Spring and summer are often warm, but not uncomfortably so. August is generally the hottest month. In the autumn, the leaves typically begin to change colors around late September and early October around Applefest. It begins snowing around November. Lake-effect snow is not as great a concern in Franklin as it is closer to Lake Erie; however, it does occasionally cause heavy snow showers.

By car
Route 322 runs through Franklin from the east and west, and Route 8 travels through Franklin from Erie to the north and Pittsburgh from the south.

By bike
If you are travelling from Oil City or Emlenton, you can enter Franklin by bike via the bike trail, which passes through Franklin. From there, you can easily travel to the downtown area.

On foot
Liberty Street contains shopping areas, the Barrow Civic Theater, the Courthouse, and the parks, making it a great place for those travelling on foot. St. John's Episcopal Church is also nearby, so visitors can see all of these without having to drive around however, not all of the sites are in walking distance, so those hoping to see more than the downtown area will need to take the bus or drive.

By car
The sites in Seneca, such as the mall and roller skating rink, can be reached from downtown Franklin by travelling on Route 322 East. For Two Mile Run County Park and Tri-City Speedway, drive down Rocky Grove Avenue. Rocky Grove Avenue becomes Route 417 outside of the city, but they are exactly the same road.

By bus
Franklin is served by the VenanGO Bus , which also has stops in Oil City and the Cranberry Mall. It costs $1.50 for adults and $0.75 for children ages 6-11. Children 5 and under, as well as Senior Citizens with PA Transit Passes, can ride for free. Buses operate from 8AM to 4PM and generally arrive at each stop once per hour, making it most convenient for shopping trips.

See
Much of the downtown area was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 for its architecture and history. Many of the shops, public buildings, and residences date back to the days when Franklin gained an immense amount of oil wealth. Notable historic buildings include the Courthouse, Public Library, churches, the Liberty Street shop buildings, and the Galena-Signal Oil Company building, which was once an oil refinery. The houses along Elk Street are exquisite examples of the Greek Revival architecture. Many other architectural wonders can be found scattered throughout the city.

 * Much of the furniture on display belonged to the Osmer family and is original to the house, along with the light fixtures and Italian marble fireplaces. The house museum has many changing displays that include clothing, household items, tools and archival artifacts from the Society’s collections that help to tell the story of the history of Venango County.
 * Venango County Historical Society also houses a Genealogical Research Library and Archival Resource Center, and is the designated repository for Venango County artifacts.
 * Much of the furniture on display belonged to the Osmer family and is original to the house, along with the light fixtures and Italian marble fireplaces. The house museum has many changing displays that include clothing, household items, tools and archival artifacts from the Society’s collections that help to tell the story of the history of Venango County.
 * Venango County Historical Society also houses a Genealogical Research Library and Archival Resource Center, and is the designated repository for Venango County artifacts.
 * Much of the furniture on display belonged to the Osmer family and is original to the house, along with the light fixtures and Italian marble fireplaces. The house museum has many changing displays that include clothing, household items, tools and archival artifacts from the Society’s collections that help to tell the story of the history of Venango County.
 * Venango County Historical Society also houses a Genealogical Research Library and Archival Resource Center, and is the designated repository for Venango County artifacts.
 * Much of the furniture on display belonged to the Osmer family and is original to the house, along with the light fixtures and Italian marble fireplaces. The house museum has many changing displays that include clothing, household items, tools and archival artifacts from the Society’s collections that help to tell the story of the history of Venango County.
 * Venango County Historical Society also houses a Genealogical Research Library and Archival Resource Center, and is the designated repository for Venango County artifacts.

Events

Downtown
In Downtown Franklin, most of the shops are located along Liberty Street. The street itself has a nostalgic feel that makes browsing pleasant (and even more so since the parking meters were removed). A few of the more unique shops are Something Clever, offering unique clothing and accessories, Franklin Press with a variety of toys and games, and the antique shops, Liberty Street Antiques and DeBence Antique World.

Connect
Internet access is available at the Franklin Public Library.

Go next

 * Titusville
 * Oil City
 * Meadville
 * Conneaut Lake
 * Erie
 * Butler
 * Pittsburgh

title: Franklin (Venango County)


text:
Franklin County

There's more than one place called Franklin County:

United States of America

 * Franklin County (Alabama) - in the Mountains (Alabama) region of Alabama
 * Franklin County (Arkansas)
 * Franklin County (Florida)
 * Franklin County (Georgia)
 * Franklin County (Idaho)
 * Franklin County (Illinois)
 * Franklin County (Indiana)
 * Franklin County (Iowa)
 * Franklin County (Kansas)
 * Franklin County (Kentucky)
 * Franklin County (Maine) - see the Lakes and Mountains article
 * Franklin County (Massachusetts) - in the Pioneer Valley region of Massachusetts
 * Franklin County (Mississippi)
 * Franklin County (Missouri)
 * Franklin County (Nebraska)
 * Franklin County (New York)
 * Franklin County (North Carolina)
 * Franklin County (Ohio)
 * Franklin County (Pennsylvania)
 * Franklin County (Tennessee)
 * Franklin County (Texas)
 * Franklin County (Vermont)
 * Franklin County (Virginia)
 * Franklin County (Washington) - in the Columbia River Plateau region of Washington (state).

See also:
 * Franklin (disambiguation)

title: Franklin County


text:
Franklin County (Maine)

Franklin County is in the Lakes and Mountains region of Maine.

Cities

 * — a quaint town with many buildings on the National Register of Historic Places
 * — the principal gateway to Sugarloaf, a major ski resort
 * , including the villages of villages of Oquossoc, Haines Landing and South Rangeley — the center of the Rangeley Lakes Region, a resort area
 * Rangeley Plantation
 * Rangeley Plantation

Understand
In 2010, the population was 31,000, making it the second-least populous county in Maine. Its county seat is Farmington. The county was established in 1838 and named for Benjamin Franklin.

Get in
On-Demand air service based in Rangeley with an office and seaplane dock on Main Street and aircraft at the Rangeley Airport.

title: Franklin County (Maine)


text:
Franklin County (Vermont)

Franklin County is in Vermont. In 2020, it was home to 50,000 people.

Cities and towns

 * — including Enosburg Falls and Richford
 * — including Swanton, Highgate, Fairfield, and Fairfax

Other destinations

 * — Explore the trails in this huge wetland and see some ducks near Swanton

By car
Franklin County is accessible via I-89. It's about an hour from Montreal and 4 hours from Boston.

By train
The Amtrak Vermonter service stops in St. Albans.

By plane
Burlington International Airport is 30-45 minutes from most parts of Franklin County.

title: Franklin County (Vermont)


text:
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park

Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a national park in the West Coast of Tasmania. The park has an area of, making it the second largest naitonal park in Tasmania. The main draw of the park is Nelson Falls, a picturesque waterfall about a 20-minute return walk from the Lyell Highway.

Understand
The Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park is a part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It was created as the Frenchmans Cap National Park, and was expanded to include a significant part of the Southwest Wilderness. It can be accessed from Lyell Highway in the northern part, and it can be entered in the mid region at Strathgordon.

History
The genesis of the Wild Rivers National Park was in the earlier Frenchmans Cap National Park which had the Franklin River as its boundary on the northern and western borders. Frenchmans Cap is a dominant feature in the region, and can be seen on the skyline from the west and north of the park.

The Gordon and Franklin Rivers were the subject of one of Australia's largest conservation efforts. The Franklin Dam was part of a proposed hydro-electric power scheme that had been in the plans of The Hydro for some time. The enthusiastic endorsement by Robin Gray's Liberal Government would have seen the river flooded. It became a national issue for the Tasmanian Wilderness Society, led by its director at the time, Bob Brown.

Landscape
The landscape is characterised by impressive mountain peaks, beautiful rainforests, deep river valleys and spectacular gorges.

Flora and fauna
Vegetation types within the park are varied, including cool temperate rainforest, drier eucalypt forests and button grass moorland.

Visitor information
Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park doesn't have any local visitor centres, so you will need to contact the office in Lake St Clair for anything. The visitor centre manages both.
 * Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Services

By car
The Lyell Highway (Route A10) runs through the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

The park has no facilities within its boundary, so to the east is Derwent Bridge, and the west are Queenstown and further towards the coast, Strahan as the nearest places with facilities.

By boat
Cruise boats departing from Strahan visit the park.

Get around
Most of the access is by foot. Unless you are on a rafting venture down the Franklin River.

Do
Bushwalking

Cruises

Rafting

Eat
There are picnic tables and toilet facilities at the Franklin River Nature Trail.

Sleep
A range of accommodation options are available in Strahan but there are none in the park.

Go next

 * Going east
 * Derwent Bridge
 * Hobart is 2.5 hours drive via the A10 Lyell Highway
 * The Highland Lakes are a little over an hour away and are popular for boating and fishing
 * Going west
 * Queenstown
 * Strahan


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Franklin Park

Franklin Park is a village in the Chicagoland area, near O'Hare International Airport. Incorporated in 1892, the town is steeped in train culture; it's served by three Metra stations, has a large train yard, and celebrates its history with a train museum and festival. In addition, there is a burgeoning suburban downtown, a large Hispanic population (which means great food), and many community gathering places.

Get in
Grand Avenue and Mannheim Road are two major arteries that run through the village. O'Hare International Airport is nearby, accessible by Mannheim Road. Franklin Park has three Metra stations: Belmont Avenue Station on Metra's North Central Service, which provides daily rail service between Antioch, Illinois and Chicago (at Union Station); and Franklin Park Station and Mannheim Station on the Milwaukee District/West Line which connects Chicago to Elgin, Illinois.

Get around
By car is the most efficient way, but PACE bus routes 319 and 325 run through Franklin Park and connect it to nearby Northlake, River Grove, Elmwood Park, and Rosemont.

Buy
Franklin Park is not exactly known as a shopping mecca. Besides Ace Hardware, all the big name stores and malls are in the nearby towns, while locally there isn't much more than a pawn shop, video stores, and grocery stores, all of which are on Grand Avenue.

Eat
Food is Franklin Park's hidden gem. Any Mexican Bakery downtown, on Franklin Avenue, will have huge, cheap treats that you probably won't find in your local bakery. They can be hit or miss, but if you don't like what you bought then spend 75 cents for something else.

Sleep
Most hotels and motels are on Mannheim Avenue, servicing airport patrons. Super 8, Best Western, Sottrel Hotel; pretty much drive down Mannheim and look for something with O'Hare in the name.

Go next

 * Chicago, of course.
 * Rosemont, north of Franklin Park, is chock full of convention centers and major Chicagoland events often take place here, including ACen. Rosemont is also home to the Chicago Wolves hockey team.  Oh, and there's a Blue Line stop.
 * Oak Park, home of Frank Lloyd Wright, is a 25-minute drive south.
 * River Grove has a forest preserve, golf course, Triton College, and Gene's & Jude's, the best Chicago-style hot dogs around (unless you love Portillo's, in which case head to Northlake).

title: Franklin Park


text:
Franklin Park (Pennsylvania)

Franklin Park is a city in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It is a suburb of Pittsburgh

Get in
Franklin Park is located at the junction on I-79 and I-279.

Connect
Franklin Park Borough

2344 West Ingomar Road

Phone: 412/364-4115

Fax: 412/366-4406

title: Franklin Park (Pennsylvania)


text:
Melbourne/Frankston

Frankston is a suburb of Melbourne, Victoria. It has a beautiful beach, vibrant street art, many restaurants, bars and shops.

Understand
Frankston is a town 40 km from Melbourne on the edge of Port Phillip Bay often referred to as the "Gateway to the Mornington Peninsula". Frankston is where the electric train line terminates. If you are a backpacker heading to the Mornington Peninsula, French Island or Phillip Island chances are you're going to go through Frankston.

Events
Frankston is home to several festivals;

 * Waterfront Festival in January.
 * Ventana Fiesta, a Latin American, Portuguese and Spanish festival in March.
 * Big Picture Fest, a street art festival in March.
 * Pets Day Out in October.
 * Festival of Lights in late November.

A Sand Sculpting display runs from December to April.

By bus

 * 781 bus from Mt Martha via Mt Eliza, Mornington.
 * 782 bus from Flinders via Coolart Road, Hastings.
 * 783 bus from Hastings via Coolart Road.
 * 782/783 combined from Hastings/Flinders via Coolart Road.
 * 788 bus from Portsea via Dromana, Rosebud, Sorrento.
 * 901 bus from Melbourne airport via Dandenong.
 * Frankston and Peninsula Airport Shuttle - a faster but more expensive option than the 901 bus.

By car
Frankston has two freeways connecting it and the rest of Melbourne: the M3 Frankston Freeway and the M11 Mornington Peninsula Freeway / Peninsula Link. The Frankston Freeway connects Frankston with the rest of Melbourne's eastern suburbs, but north of the Mornington Pen Fwy it's tolled and becomes Eastlink. If you're coming from Melb CBD, head east on the M1 Monash Fwy and exit onto Eastlink. The Mornington Peninsula Fwy connects Frankston to the Mornington Peninsula to the south, but only goes as far as Kingston to the northwest. On some maps, you might see the northwestern portion of the Mornington Peninsula Freeway being labelled as Mordialloc Freeway – this is because Mordialloc Fwy was its construction name prior to opening in 2021.

By train

 * Frankston line from Melbourne.
 * Stony Point line.

Eat
There are several food courts located within the shopping centers offering a wide range of food such as Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Indian, Italian, not to mention all the regular fast food chains. Pizza, Fish and Chips there is no shortage of choices.

Go next
Frankston station serves as a transit hub for bus and train services.

 * Dandenong - by Bus
 * Flinders - Bus 782 Frankston - Flinders via Coolart Road, Hastings.
 * Melbourne - by train
 * Melbourne Airport - 901 Bus or Peninsula Express Skybus- a faster but more expensive option than the 901 bus.
 * Mount Martha - Take the 781 bus via Mt Eliza and Mornington.
 * Portsea - Take the 788 bus via Dromana, Rosebud and Sorrento.
 * Stony Point - Take the train to Stony Point, where ferries leave for French Island and Phillip Island.

title: Melbourne/Frankston


text:
Franschhoek

Franschhoek (Dutch for 'French Corner') is a city in the Cape Winelands. Franschhoek makes a serious attempt at being the food and wine capital of South Africa and there are many fine restaurants. It's a great place to relax, enjoy top food and wine, in a spectacular atmosphere.

Understand

Franschhoek was founded by French Huguenot settlers (hence the name), who fled the Inquisition in Europe and were looking for a little hide-out on the other side of the world. They found it in the fertile valley of Franschhoek - which they called "Oliphantshoek", as the valley had a lot of elephants.

Even though most people don't speak French, many of the street names, restaurant names and wine farms in the 'French Quarter' have French names.

Get in
Only one road (R45) leads to Franschhoek from Stellenbosch or Paarl. For a more scenic drive, you can enter Franschhoek all the way over the "Franschhoek Pass" - a spectacular mountain route leading into Franschhoek from Villiersdorp.

There is a taxi service (small buses with loud music and often loud drivers) from Stellenbosch and from Paarl.

There's no train service.

Get around
You can walk along the main street to have a look at the shops and various restaurants and a stroll through the streets off the main street will show you some nice old houses.

See

Franschhoek is a place to relax. Stroll up or down the main street and take your time to have a look around. The mountains surrounding Franschhoek are spectacular and there are many places you can reach within easy driving distances.

Do

 * Rent a bike to go up and down the hills along the wine farms.
 * Go fishing to some of the lakes nearby
 * Go wine tasting in some of the many excellent wineries. Some are reachable on foot from the village; you can use a shuttlebus or arrange a wine tour for those that aren't

Buy
Franschhoek has many wonderful small family-run shops. The shopping experience along the main street has grown and there is a wonderful variety of unusual and unique shops.
 * Peacock Blue is a men's clothing store which makes linen shorts and shirts in a huge variety of colours. They also sell numerous styles of shorts, polo golfers swimwear shoes exception knitwear both cashmere and pure wool in their own designs. They also stock international brands like Scotch & Soda.
 * Indian Summer next door is a famous independent ladies' boutique, with a sister shop in London. It certainly is very different with a large local following with dresses from London, cashmere, semi-precious jewellery, swimwear and jeans.
 * Charlotte Isabellina is a ladies' boutique - very smart, very chic - specialising in Louisa Spagnoli, an exciting brand from Italy.
 * Tracys Diamonds in the same name building opposite the church has a world-wide following for their expertise design and keen prices.
 * Anpa Jewellery is another firm favourite with semi-precious stones set into unique and fabulous pieces designed and made in Cape Town.
 * Art in the Yard is a wonderful contemporary art gallery situated behind The Salmon Bar. They ship worldwide
 * Ebony is an eclectic mix of treasures and art mainly sourced from the vibrant African contemporary art and crafts scene.
 * Sacred ground artisan bread and great coffee.
 * Jade sells pearls and unique and tasteful jewellery.
 * Penchant is another great independent jewellery store. The pieces are all designed and made locally.
 * Beluga Bear has a wonderful selection of babies' and young children's clothes and gifts.
 * Masquerade sells items for the home, linens, candles, soaps - très joli et chic !
 * Biccs homemade ice cream, breads and coffee.
 * African Art Gallery gifts
 * Tsonga has great locally-made shoes and handbags, men's and women's.
 * Chocolates made in the village are a speciality not to be missed

Eat
There are many excellent restaurants in and around Franschhoek. Along the main road are a number of very good restaurants.

Drink
Wine is plentiful and cheap.

Haute Cabrière and La Petite Ferme (see above) sell their own wines. Just outside of the village are two top wine estates, Grande Provence and Boschendal, where tastings are available daily. There are also many other smaller wine estates in the area. Virtually all welcome visitors and tastings can be arranged with most.

Go next

 * Visit one of the other towns in the Cape Winelands, like Stellenbosch and Paarl, or go to Cape Town and enjoy its attractions.
 * Follow the N2 highway to the east to get to the famous Garden Route
 * Go to the beach at Strand or Gordon's Bay (less crowded) and swim in the False Bay
 * Take your golf clubs - Pearl Valley and Paarl golf clubs are within 15 minutes drive; Stellenbosch and De Zalze within 30 minutes. All are top quality lay-outs and prices are exceptionally cheap by European standards.

title: Franschhoek


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Franz Josef

 * Not to be confused with Franz Josef Land in the Arctic.

Franz Josef is a glacial area at the foot of the western slopes of Mount Cook, in the middle of the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand.

Understand
The recent spectacular ice retreat at the Franz Josef Glacier has surprised even the experts and shocked local businesspeople who thought the impressive ice river would be a reliable source of income for years to come.

The glacier retreated 800 m in five years, prompting suggestions of a road up the valley as the ice disappears from view. Although the South Island's steep, low altitude glaciers have always been dramatic in their advances and retreats, the rapidity of the present retreat is remarkable in geological time scales. Between 1893 and the end of its last big retreat 90 years later, in 1983, Franz Josef Glacier receded about 3 km. Then, between 1983 and 2008, this glacier advanced almost 1.5 km after heavy snowfalls. But in the following five years it melted almost 820 m.

The retreat began in 2008, and in 2011 the ice thinned by about 70 m behind the glacier terminal. Then, in 2012, a huge hole opened up and guided walks were stopped. Scientists using seismometers detected "ice quakes" - the ground shaking from an ice collapse - as a huge cavity formed beneath the glacier, eventually causing its surface to sink into it.

Tourists had been flown on to the ice by helicopter, but now even this is in jeopardy.

The walk from the car park to the terminal face is now nearly 4 km and many visitors are considering visiting the larger glacier at Fox township instead. In 2011, about 330,000 people visited Franz Josef, and 184,000 went to Fox.

DoC is considering an emergency plan to build a new road to the rapidly retreating terminal face but The Westland National Park plan and park by-laws may have to be changed so the road can be built. DoC is also considering reviewing the limit on the number of heli-hikes allowed on the glacier.

Get in

 * The road north was badly damaged on SH6 in December 2019, road works are still happening but the road is now fully open. The nearby South road bridge on SH6 that was badly damaged in March 2019 is fully repaired.

By car

 * It's about 30 min from Fox Glacier.
 * It's about 2 hr from Greymouth.
 * It's 4½hrs from Wanaka.
 * It's a 5-hour drive from Christchurch

By bus
Tour buses generally make Franz Josef one of their stops, either for the night or at least a lunch break.

By air
Franz Josef Airport is really only suitable for light aircraft. Mount Cook Airport is on the other of the mountains, and a scenic flightseeing trip can often be arranged at short notice.

Get around
While you can take your car to the car park at the foot of the glacier, you will need to get out and walk 25 minutes to the terminal face, as the glacier is receding. There are walking tracks in the glacier valley. Please take heed of the warning signs as you get close to the glacier terminal face.

If you prefer to do things the easy way, try flightseeing, either in a plane or helicopter. Hire a bike to explore the township at the different pace.

See

The 11-km-long Franz Josef Glacier is one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, a remnant from the Ice Age which is one of South Westland's major drawcards for visitors.

The Glacier area (which also includes Fox Glacier) attracts up to 550,000 tourists every year - most of them taking the opportunity to view the glacier close up by taking a walking tour or getting the big picture from the sky by helicopter.

The flow rate is about 10 times that of typical glaciers. From a long term perspective, the glacier has retreated since the last ice age, and it is believed that it reached the sea some 10,000 to 15,000 years ago. The glacier ends about 17 km from the Tasman Sea and the West Coast of the South Island.

Being a slow-moving frozen river, the stunning glacial landscape changes daily, and all safety warnings should be taken seriously.

Visit the glacier
Visit the glacier by foot, independently or with a guided tour. Do not pass the warning barriers at the glacier. Or take a helicopter flight.

Businesses:
 * Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, 63 Cron St. Kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboards, scenic boat tours, guided walks, freshwater fishing charters toll free 0800 423 262.
 * Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, 63 Cron St. Kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboards, scenic boat tours, guided walks, freshwater fishing charters toll free 0800 423 262.
 * Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, 63 Cron St. Kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboards, scenic boat tours, guided walks, freshwater fishing charters toll free 0800 423 262.
 * Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, 63 Cron St. Kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboards, scenic boat tours, guided walks, freshwater fishing charters toll free 0800 423 262.
 * Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, 63 Cron St. Kayak tours and rentals, stand-up paddleboards, scenic boat tours, guided walks, freshwater fishing charters toll free 0800 423 262.

Go next

 * Ross – to the north
 * Fox Glacier – the bigger and least crowded glacier, just down the road to the south

title: Franz Josef


text:
Frasassi Caves

The Frasassi Caves  (in Italian Grotte di Frasassi) is a karst cave system near the municipality of Genga in the Marche region of Italy.

Understand

The Frasassi Caves are open to public and they are considered among the most famous show caves in Italy. Although the total length of its corridors is around 30 km, the touristic course that is open to all (including toddlers and elderly people) amounts to over 1.5 km of corridors and rooms. Guided tours take approximately 1.5 hours.

The Frasassi Caves include the magnificent Grotta Grande del Vento, which is so big that the Milan Cathedral would fit inside it easily.

Entrance is possible on all days except: from 4-25 December and from 10-30 January.

Because only a small part of the cave system is included in the leisurely tourist walks there are also routes for the more adventurous visitors that are graded by difficulty: percorso azzurro (the blue trail) and percorso rosso (the red trail). You are supposed to be reasonably fit and prepared to get a little wet and have to crawl and squeeze through narrow openings.

History
The caves were discovered by a group of speleologists from Ancona in 1971.

Flora and fauna
The caves are home to pipistrelle bats and cave salamanders.

Climate
Inside the cave it is a constant 14 °C.

Get in
There are three car parks for the caves: a small one by the entrance and two larger ones a one and two minute drive away. The last of these is where most tickets are sold and most coach tours and cars park. Shuttle buses operate from these two car parks to the cave entrance.

You must have a tour to enter the cave: all tickets come with a tour.

Fees
Both English and Italian basic guided cave tours are available. The cost as of 2018 is €18 per adult for a 1.5 hr tour. This includes a shuttle bus to and from the caves. Speleological tours cost up to €50.

Tickets need to be bought at least half an hour in advance of the stated start time and visitors must be at bus stop 10 minutes before.

Audio guides are available for free through an app but you must have your own headphones.

title: Frasassi Caves


text:
Frascati

Frascati is one of the Castelli Romani, historic hill towns southeast of Rome. It is a small relaxed town perfect for a getaway from the metropolis, world famous for its white wine which has won an array of awards. Frascati has a slower pace of life, cleaner air, and a far more casual feel than the nearby capital.

Understand
In 1943, Frascati, the seat of the German Field Marshal Kesselring, was heavily bombed by American B17s. Around half of its buildings were destroyed by a total of 1300 bombs. Many people died in that air strike and in a second air strike on January 22, 1944, the day of the battle of Anzio. The city was liberated from German occupation on June 4, 1944.

Although you probably won't notice it from a casual visit, Frascati is an important scientific center. It hosts Italy's National Institute for Nuclear Physics, the European Space Agency's Centre for Earth Observation, and the Spaceguard Foundation, which aims to protect the world from collision with objects in space.

Get in
Frascati is 21 km from Rome, easily accessible by public transport or in your own car.

 * It is very convenient to the Ciampino airport which is used by a number of the budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet.
 * Trains run from Roma Termini approximately every hour. They take about 30 minutes and cost around €2. Check the Trenitalia website for further details. This was one of the first railway lines built in Italy.
 * Buses run daily from Rome. Check the Cotral website for details.
 * If Driving from Rome, take Via Tuscolana from just South East of the centre of Rome and follow it all the way to Frascati. Couldn't be easier.

See
Frascati is famous for its villas, in particular Villa Aldobrandini, which dominates the town. These villas were built in the 16th century by the Roman aristocracy as status symbols and for social activities. Most have been restored since being damaged in World War II but the cost of maintaining such buildings these days is horrendous.

Do

 * Take part in the passegiata in the evening: wandering up and down the main street, preferably with a gelato, checking out everyone else doing the same, or in the daytime, you can visit a winery.

Eat
Porchetta is a speciality of the region: whole spit roast pork. Many places around the town will have most of a pig sitting in a cabinet, usually served by carving a few slices and placing them between pieces of rustic white bread. Perhaps nothing could be a better match for a glass of Frascati.

Drink
Frascati is famous for its white wine, and the best (many have won awards in the past few years) are bottled DOC and DOCG Superior versions. Excellent quality/price ratio There is a big difference in quality between the best producers and some of the others. The largest producer is Fontana Candida and its Superiore Santa Teresa, Castel De Paolis, Casale Mattia, Poggio Le Volpi and San Marco. Antiche Terre Tuscolane cooperative produces relatively small volumes of very good wine. Principe Pallavcini is top notch (Superior DOCG is calle Poggio Verde), but for a complete list check out the consortium's website (they are the oldest consortium in Europe).

A feature of Frascati is its Cantine, essentially places where you can buy and drink wine (slightly inferior on tap), and can bring your own food. During summer nights the Cantine put their tables outside on the paved roads and it seems like the whole town sits on these benches drinking, talking and laughing beneath the stars. On such nights it's easy to see why they choose to live in this small but vibrant town.

 * Taglienti white wine.
 * Taglienti white wine.

Sleep

 * Hotel Panorama, it is the one with the best view on Rome.
 * Hotel Panorama, it is the one with the best view on Rome.
 * Hotel Panorama, it is the one with the best view on Rome.
 * Hotel Panorama, it is the one with the best view on Rome.

Go next
Frascati lies on the eastern edge of the Castelli Romani, a generic name for the area to the south of Rome, Notable cities in the area are Castel Gandolfo where the Pope has his summer residence and Marino.

title: Frascati


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Fraser's Hill

Fraser's Hill (Bukit Fraser) is a colonial-era hill station in Pahang state, Peninsular Malaysia. Fraser's Hill has a wonderfully weird mixed-up character, where locals eat curries off banana leaves in an English cottage next to a golf course while the call to prayer sounds from the mosque.

Understand
Fraser's Hill is named after Louis James Fraser, a Scotsman who prospected for gold in Australia but eventually struck tin here instead in the 1890s. Employing Chinese miners to do the hard work for him and earning his keep by operating mule trains down the mountain, Fraser set up opium and gambling dens to increase his profits, which may have had something to do with his subsequent mysterious disappearance. The tin ran out in 1913, but the lush valley within was rediscovered as a colonial hill resort that, thanks to its 1524-m elevation, enjoys considerably cooler temperatures than Kuala Lumpur. By 1922 a road had been cut through the mountains to the valley, which soon sprouted bungalows and even one of Malaya's first golf courses.

Orientation
Orienting yourself in Fraser's Hill is easy enough: the entrance via the Gap is at the southwest corner of the valley and the "center" as such is at the intersection of Jalan Genting and Jalan Lady Guillemard, with the much-photographed clock tower marking the spot. Most restaurants and shops are clustered here, while the golf course takes up the bottom of the valley and bungalows and swanky residences dot the hills all around.

Get in
Public transport on the Hill is non-existent (the bus from Kuala Kubu Bharu no longer runs) and you'll have to arrange your own wheels in some form or another.

By road
Fraser's Hill is 105 km north of Kuala Lumpur, around 2 hours by car. All downward traffic uses the new road, while the old Gap road is designated for upward traffic.

For road conditions from Kuala Kubu Bahru (KKB) or Raub to Fraser's Hill, contact the police station in Fraser's Hill at.

By train
The KTM Komuter's northern run from Kuala Lumpur now reaches Kuala Kubu Baru, although you'll need to switch trains in Rawang (platform 2 for trains to KKB). From Kuala Kubu Baru, you can hire a taxi or local driver for the going rate of RM80 one way. Arrange to have your driver pick you up when you want to return, as getting a taxi back otherwise will be tough.

By taxi
Apart from your own car, the easiest way is by using taxi from Kuala Lumpur. Normal KL taxis can't do the trip, but you can arrange one from the Puduraya bus station, or call up Selangor Radio Taxi or Comfort Taxi. You can expect to be quoted around RM200 for a one-way transfer, but this can be negotiated down, even more so for a return trip.

Get around

For getting around Fraser's Hill, your own car is the best option. However, there is no petrol station up in Fraser's Hill so remember to fill your tank before going uphill. Should you get caught without sufficient petrol in Fraser's Hill, ask the locals and they may sell some petrol to you in 1-litre bottles.

Most distances are, however, walkable if you're not in hurry and don't mind going up/downhill or taking the trails through the jungle.

See
Fraser's Hill is famed worldwide as a birdwatching destination, with over 250 species recorded. Winners during the annual Bird Race have spotted as many as 70 species within 24 hours!
 * Jeriau Waterfalls, (30-min drive) from the town centre and then a 15-min walk.  The falls are 6 m high and fall into a shallow pool suitable for bathing.  The area is equipped with restrooms and shelters for picnics.
 * Jeriau Waterfalls, (30-min drive) from the town centre and then a 15-min walk.  The falls are 6 m high and fall into a shallow pool suitable for bathing.  The area is equipped with restrooms and shelters for picnics.

Do

The top activities in Fraser's Hill are hiking, golf and birdwatching.

Birdwatching
One of the most popular activities in Fraser's Hill is bird watching given the many different species of birds in the locality, particularly in June when the International Bird Race event is held here due to many migratory species passing through.

Hiking
There are eight signposted trails around Fraser's Hill, although some have been closed at least temporarily after a well-publicized incident in 2005 when three young boys were lost in the jungle. Watch out for leeches.

 * Hemmant Trail. An easy 20-minute trail along the north side of the golf course.
 * Bishop's Trail. Effectively a continuation of the Hemmant Trail, this is a slightly more challenging half-hour track through the jungle.  Slippery when wet.
 * Pine Tree Trail. A challenging 6-km trail up and down hills to the eponymous Pine Tree Hill, and you'll have to return the way you came to boot.  This is a full-day hike that will take 7-8 hours at a moderate pace.

Golf

 * Fraser's Hill Golf Club. (All day 9-hole walking course) A short but very tight course.  Open daily 8AM-7PM, green fees RM30/40 weekdays/weekends (whole day).  Carry fee RM10.  Golf sets available for rent at the Sports Complex.

Tennis
With such a delightful climate, Fraser's Hill ought to be perfect for tennis, but the courts have been neglected. Pines Resorts and SilverPark have courts, but they have fallen into disrepair. There are two public courts on the Pines Road (next to the Pahang Instana), but they are barely playable. The courts are filthy, so be prepared to discard your balls after a few plays (they turn from yellow to black).

Buy

While you can get your fill of Fraser's Hill T-shirts and fridge magnets from the souvenir shops around the clock tower, the most useful local fashion accessory in these parts is a pair of leech socks. Baggy stockings of unbleached cotton worn over your pants, these not only prevent unwanted blood transfusions, but also double as handy Christmas decorations if you paint on a reindeer or two.

 * Kraftangan & Cenderamata Bukit Fraser, a souvenir shop at the Sports Complex. T-shirts (RM19.90 to 35.90), fridge magnets, accessories (3 for RM10), and local souvenirs. Open on weekends/holidays only.

Drink

Nightlife in Fraser's Hill is basically nonexistent, but the Smokehouse can serve you a pint of Guinness.

Sleep
Most visitors come during the weekend, so it's not unusual for rates to be discounted as much as 50% on weekdays.

Mid-range

 * Jelai Highlands Resort, Jalan Ampang, . This aging resort looks more appealing from afar than up close, but it's comparatively economical and functional.  Standard (twin) room RM90/110, double (queen) room RM130/160 weekdays/weekends.
 * Fraser's Pine Resort about less than 10 minutes drive from the clock tower. The units are poorly maintained, facilities are old, dirty and dusty.
 * Puncak Inn/Puncak Apartment/Puncak Bungalow: at the town centre opposite the clock tower offers a well good night sleep. Well maintained, with affordable rates.

Splurge
The best way to splurge on Fraser's Hill is to rent a private bungalow. Rates vary widely, from under RM300/day for a small, crumbling bungalow to RM1500/day for a top-of-the-line outfit complete with housekeeper. All bungalow have multiple bedrooms and can easily fit 4 or more people. Book directly with the Fraser's Hill Development Corporation/Information Counter /Puncak Inn,.

Connect
Start your visit by dropping into the Fraser's Hill Tourist Information Centre on Jalan Genting, to your left past the top gate of the Gap. They hand out a useful (albeit scaleless) map and can advise on trails and such.

Stay safe
The trails are fairly well marked but not trivial, so register your intentions with the Tourist Information Centre if you plan on tackling the longer ones. Watch out for muddy trails after rain and take precautions against leeches. Malayan tigers have been spotted very occasionally, but they shy away from humans.

Be careful not to leave anything of value in your car or trunk of value when you are visiting places like the waterfall, as there have been cases of cars being burgled.

title: Fraser's Hill


text:
Fraserburgh

Fraserburgh (locally known as The Broch) is a fishing port in Aberdeenshire, with a population in 2020 of 13,000. In the 19th century it was a major port for herring, and shell-fishing is still an important local industry. It hosts the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses.

Understand
Atlantic herring Clupea harengus are about 30 cm long and lie mid-way in the food chain. They stay deep in daylight hours but at night come shallow to feed on tiny copepods and krill, attacking in large shoals so that as these agile sea-fleas jump out of the way, they land in the next herring's mouth. Sea-birds and large mammals are drawn to the shoals, and dolphins may herd them into "bait-balls". They can live over 20 years but their apex predator, human fisherfolk, makes sure they don't. Herring are found worldwide but off the British Isles they traditionally followed a circuit, off the north coast of Scotland in summer and in the North Sea off Grimsby and Lowestoft through winter. The fishing fleets followed the shoals and Fraserburgh, with the best harbour on this coast and a large fleet, could fish in all these waters and away out to Greenland and the Banks of Newfoundland.

Herring is an oily fish and once landed, it must be gutted and cured quickly before it rots. An army of seasonal workers, mostly female, moved from port to port to do so, gaining money in their own pockets and an independent outlook. The Government subsidised the industry and railways took away the barrels of fish. At its peak at the start of the 20th century there were 30,000 boats involved, a third of them Scottish, and 2,500,000 barrels per year were exported to Germany, Russia and the Baltic countries - ten barrels makes one ton.

The trade was disrupted by wartime, and from the 1960s all UK fisheries declined through over-fishing, but the herring vanished. Probably this was through damage to their spawning grounds and juvenile "nursery" areas, which are shallow and vulnerable to other activities such as scallop-dredging. Fraserburgh fell on hard times: it got by (and still does) with shellfishing, but never benefitted from the Aberdeen oil boom. It has taken 50 years for concerted action to protect the shoals. In 2019 mass herring spawning was observed in the North Sea, and since they reach maturity after 3 years, we may be about to see a return of the "silver darling" of old.

The town suffered lifeboat disasters in 1919, 1953 and 1970 while assisting stricken fishing boats.

Get in
Stagecoach Bus 68 runs every two hours from Aberdeen via Ellon P&R, taking 90 min to Fraserburgh.

Bus X69 runs every two hours from Peterhead, taking 30 min.

Watermill Bus 271 runs once M-F from Banff.

Get around
Walk, but at night give a wide berth to drunks.

Taxi firms are J&J Kabs (+44 7478 138532), Ritchie's (+44 7572 648561), First Cabs (+44 7774 028139), SM Taxis (+44 7411 752323) and Doug's (+44 1346 512882).

See

 * : it's long past its heyday as a herring fishing port, but still busy with small vessels landing shellfish and white fish.
 * Churches: several were built in the 19th century for the booming population of fisherfolk. They include Fraserburgh Baptist Church; Fraserburgh Old Parish Church (the oldest); Our Lady, Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church; South Church; St Peter's Episcopal Church; and West Church.
 * is just a large heap of stones to look at, but it's a 4000-year-old burial site.
 * Churches: several were built in the 19th century for the booming population of fisherfolk. They include Fraserburgh Baptist Church; Fraserburgh Old Parish Church (the oldest); Our Lady, Star of the Sea Roman Catholic Church; South Church; St Peter's Episcopal Church; and West Church.
 * is just a large heap of stones to look at, but it's a 4000-year-old burial site.
 * in Inverallochy is a small museum in a former fisherman's cottage.
 * The Knuckle is a name given to the promontory where the coast turns east into the Moray Firth, and a 1949 account describes "Nine castles of the Knuckle". Kinnaird Castle and the Wine Tower (above) are two of them. Going southeast are Cairnbulg, Inverallochy (just a shard of masonry), Lonmay (gone), and Rattray (gone). West are Pitullie, Pitsligo and Dundarg (below).
 * is a Z-plan castle, from early 14th century but rebuilt several times. It's seldom open to the public.
 * or Rattray Water was an inlet of the sea until 1720, with Rattray its harbour. It was already silting up when a great storm hurled a spit of sand across the bay and cut off the loch. It's now a wildlife reserve managed by RSPB. A ship laden with slates found itself trapped on the loch, so its slates were used in the village, but that was the only good luck blown by that ill wind. Rattray in one night lost its castle (seen as divine punishment for their playing cards on a Sunday) and its harbour, so it became depopulated. See the ruin here of St Mary's Chapel; Rattray Head lighthouse is intact.
 * Cairness House four miles south of town is a grand late-18th century neo-classical mansion designed by Playfair. It's a private residence and you don't see much of it from the public road.
 * and are ruins near Rosehearty, west of Fraserburgh.
 * Dundarg Castle is little more than a grassy hillock on the coast towards Gardenstown, you just come for the sea views.

Do

 * The best beach is east of town by the golf course, stretching round the bay to Inverallochy.
 * The Leisure Centre on Seaforth St has ten-pin bowling, snooker and pool. It's open daily 9AM-11PM.
 * There are fitness centres at James Ramsay Park, Denmark St and High St.
 * Fraserburgh Golf Club is on Philorth Links, on the coast south edge of town.

Buy

 * Tesco and Lidl are on the main road south end of town.
 * The Farmers Market is held in Saltoun Square on the second Saturday of the month 10AM-3:30PM.

Eat

 * There's a slew of cheap eats along High St and Cross St, with pizza, Chinese, tandoori, kebabs and fish & chips, eat in or takeaway.
 * Herring though there's no saying where it's come from. It can be eaten raw, salted, pickled, or (holding your nose) fermented, and in Arbroath it's smoked. Fraserburgh hews to the standard Scottish method of filleting, coating in seasoned pin-head oatmeal, then pan-frying and serving with boiled potatoes.
 * Herring though there's no saying where it's come from. It can be eaten raw, salted, pickled, or (holding your nose) fermented, and in Arbroath it's smoked. Fraserburgh hews to the standard Scottish method of filleting, coating in seasoned pin-head oatmeal, then pan-frying and serving with boiled potatoes.
 * Herring though there's no saying where it's come from. It can be eaten raw, salted, pickled, or (holding your nose) fermented, and in Arbroath it's smoked. Fraserburgh hews to the standard Scottish method of filleting, coating in seasoned pin-head oatmeal, then pan-frying and serving with boiled potatoes.

Drink

 * The Royal is the British Legion pub at 42 School St.
 * Deejays is a nightclub on Denmark St.
 * The Royal is the British Legion pub at 42 School St.
 * Deejays is a nightclub on Denmark St.
 * Deejays is a nightclub on Denmark St.

Sleep

 * Findlay's is a decent three-star on Smiddyhill Road.
 * Findlay's is a decent three-star on Smiddyhill Road.

Connect
As of Oct 2021, Fraserburgh has 4G with all UK carriers, but 5G has not reached this area.

Go next

 * Gardenstown is a picturesque little fishing village to the west.
 * Peterhead to the southeast is another fishing village.
 * Methlick inland has grand Haddo House and what's left of Gight Castle, Byron's ancestral home.

title: Fraserburgh


text:
K'gari

K'gari (pronounced "Gurri", formerly Fraser Island) is a large sand island 122 km (76 miles) long (the largest sand island in the world) situated off the southern coast of the Australian state of Queensland, some 300 km (200 miles) north of the state capital Brisbane. A popular destination for travellers, K'gari was inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1992.

Most of the island is taken up by the Great Sandy National Park, which has some additional sections on the mainland.

Understand
K'gari is the largest sand island in the world, world heritage listed and stretching over 100km along the southern coast of Queensland. A place of exceptional beauty, with long uninterrupted white beaches flanked by strikingly coloured sand cliffs. The island has over 100 freshwater lakes, some tea-coloured and others clear and blue all ringed by white sandy beaches. Ancient rainforests grow in sand along the banks of fast-flowing, crystal-clear creeks.

K'gari is a precious part of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage, it is protected for all to appreciate and enjoy.

K'gari is the only place in the world where tall rainforests are found growing on sand dunes at elevations of over 200 metres. The low “wallum” heaths on the island are of particular evolutionary and ecological significance, and provide magnificent wildflower displays in spring and summer.

The immense sand blows and cliffs of coloured sands are part of the longest and most complete age sequence of coastal dune systems in the world and they are still evolving. They are a continuous record of climatic and sea level changes over the last 700 000 years. The highest dunes on the island reach up to 240 metres above sea level. The Great Sandy Strait, separating K'gari from the mainland, is listed by the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention). The wetlands include: rare patterned ferns; mangrove colonies; sea-grass beds; and up to 40,000 migratory shorebirds. Rare, vulnerable or endangered species include dugongs, turtles, Illidge’s ant-blue butterflies and eastern curlews.

History
In 2023, the island was officially renamed to K'gari from Fraser Island by the Queensland Government. Much of the island, nearby locals and the media have also caught on since.

Flora and fauna
Dingoes - once common are now endangered on K'gari and the island is the only place in Australia where they are considered dangerous (mainly due to being fed by visitors and losing their fear of humans).

K'gari is famous for over 300 species of birds, and include coastal birds such as dotterals, pied oyster-catchers, pelicans and terns, and birds of prey such as brahminy kites, white-breasted sea eagles, ospreys and peregrine falcons. The island's heathlands are home to one of Australia's rarest bird, the ground parrot, and here you will also find honey-eaters, kingfishers and cockatoos. The freshwater wetlands are the habitat of curlews, jabirus and brolgas. There are 25 species of mammal, including pure-breed dingoes, wallabies, possums, flying foxes and echidnas. Dugong feed on the sea grass, turtles breed on some island beaches, and tailor spawn annually near rocky headlands. Humpback whales from the Antarctic come to the sheltered waters of Platypus Bay with their new calves on their return journey south. Between July and August is the time to see the whales, and licenced tour-operators operate from Hervey Bay.

Climate
At 500 km south of the Tropic of Capricorn, K'gari has a hot and humid climate but is cooled by sea breezes. Its summer maximum average temperature is only 30 degrees C, although the summer months have some extremely hot days. Winters are mild, with average temperatures of around 15 degrees C. This is usually the dry season and most winter days are sunny and frost free, making for a very pleasant climate. People with fair skins need to be wary when out in the midday sunshine since unprotected skin can burn in a few minutes. Hats, cool clothing that protects from the sun, sunscreen and common sense are essentials to enjoying K'gari summers.

By boat
Vehicular access to K'gari is by ferry only; thereafter, four-wheel drive vehicles are necessary for transport around the island. Travelers have the option of bringing or hiring their own 4WD vehicle, joining a group from a Hervey Bay hostel, or taking a 4WD tour bus. Vehicle hire is available and tour buses depart from various towns on the Sunshine Coast (Noosa) and Fraser Coast (Hervey Bay).

The following boats serve K'gari:
 * Fraser Venture (Ph. ) - vehicle barge that makes three crossings per day from River Heads (10 km southwest of Hervey Bay) to Wanggoolba Creek (west of Central Station / Eurong).
 * K'gari Ferry Service - crosses from Inskip point near Rainbow beach to the southern point of K'gari. Most trips originating from Noosa use this service.

By air
A number of charter operators fly light aircraft on to K'gari, landing on the main beach (at low tide only).

Fees and permits
Permits - Vehicles and Camping: All vehicles travelling to K'gari must have a permit. It must be attached to the windscreen. Campers other than those using commercial campgrounds must have a camping permit which should be attached to the tent in clear view for inspection by the park ranger.

Permits are available from the following offices:
 * The Department of Environment Smart Service Qld www.qld.gov.au/camping 13 13 04
 * Brisbane: 160 Ann St, +61 7 3227-8185
 * Maryborough: Cnr Alice and Lennox St +61 7 4121-1800
 * Gympie:  +61 7 5482-4189
 * Noosa:  +61 7 5447-3243
 * Bundaberg:  +61 7 4153-8620
 * Rainbow Beach:  +61 7 5486-3160

Permits are also available from:
 * The Marina Kiosk Buccaneer Avenue
 * Urangan Boat Harbour +61 7 4128-9800
 * National Parks Kiosk River Heads boat ramp

By car
One of the most enjoyable ways to visit K'gari is by 4WD. To visit most of the main sites you should allow three days. You can hire vehicles with camping gear or stay in accommodation on the island.
 * Atlas4wdhire provide well maintained 4wd vehicles and great service. +61 419 886006
 * Atlas4wdhire provide well maintained 4wd vehicles and great service. +61 419 886006
 * Atlas4wdhire provide well maintained 4wd vehicles and great service. +61 419 886006
 * Atlas4wdhire provide well maintained 4wd vehicles and great service. +61 419 886006

Driving can be quite difficult especially during the dry season as the sand roads can be very difficult to get through. The sand can become like talcum powder and it is not uncommon if a vehicle becomes stuck to have to wait for hours before a bus can come by to tow the car out. The best time to drive is after there has been some rain when the sand road is more solid. Getting stuck relies on the help of others to get out. If you are not comfortable driving, taking a tour is recommended. Typically the longer the tour is, the smaller the group travelling.

See

 * Lake MacKenzie - the jewel of K'gari, Lake MacKenzie is a large perched lake with crystal blue waters and white sands. The area is one of the most popular on the island so can get crowded during the middle of the day in peak season. There are toilet facilities and an enclosed picnic area - no food or drink is to be consumed outside of this area in an attempt not to attract dingoes.
 * Lake Wabby - a green colored barrage lake approximately 45 minutes walk from the beach, with a large sand blow that is slowly encroaching upon the lake. Freshwater turtles and catfish can sometimes be seen swimming in the lake. The path to the lake will split with only 100m difference between the two however the slightly longer way takes you over a sand dune. This split is well marked. If you take the one way into the lake over the sand dune you will be walking down the sand dune - much easier than up the sand dune. On the way out, walk along the lake with the lake on your right and you will see the second path at the edge of the lake taking you through the rainforest. Walking through the sand dune can get quite hot during the summer and it's a good idea to bring water along. Locals bring bodyboards to slide off the sand dune into the lake. Do not run into the lake off the sand and attempt to dive. Many people get seriously hurt and even paralyzed trying to do this every year. The only toilet facilities available are at the beginning of the walk in.
 * Indian Head - the rocky outcrop at the northern end of the main beach. Climb to the top to look down into the ocean and spot sharks, rays, turtles and dolphins. Beautiful outlook.
 * Champagne Pools - north of Indian Heads, these rock pools provide a safe place to bathe in sea water. Their name is derived from the froth created when waves break over the edge and into the pools.
 * Eli Creek - a freshwater creek midway along the main beach where bathers can float or walk down with the slow current. The water in the creek can vary quickly but does not get above waist height of an adult 5'9". The deeper parts can usually be avoided by walking on the other side of the creek. A boardwalk provides access to the top of the creek. It is an easy walk both on the boardwalk and through the water.

Do
One of the best ways to see K'gari is to hire a 4WD and explore at your leisure. Accommodation options range from basic cabins to 4 star resorts. Another popular option is camping on the beach or at inland campgrounds - most vehicle hire companies also hire camping gear. If time permits you should allow at least three days to discover the wonderful sights of Fraser. To ensure quality of service it is recommended to hire from a company that is a current member of the Fraser Coast 4X4 Hire Association.

Eat
While you will need to be relatively self sufficient for food if you aren't staying at one of the resorts, the resorts do have restaurants attached and are open to visitors. This said, Eurong Beach Resort has a bakery which sells pies, sausage rolls and some sweet treats as well as fresh baked bread. The shops at Eurong, Happy Valley, Cathedrals on Fraser and Orchid beach have basic supplies.

Drink
Soft drinks and alcohol can be purchased from shops at Eurong and Happy Valley, although alcohol is not available before 10AM due to state licensing laws. Note that prices are substantially higher on the island than on the mainland; save money by bringing sufficient supplies with you!

Drinking water can be obtained from taps in various campsites and from a tap on the beach 500m north of Eurong; untreated water from the creeks or lakes should not be drunk.

Sleep
Sleeping on K'gari ranges from luxury resorts through campsites to rough camping amongst the dunes along designated stretches of beach.

Camping
There are a number of camp sites on the island which house standard facilities (toilets, showers etc.) and are fenced to keep dingoes out. Fires are permitted in these sites within fire rings, but noise is forbidden after 9PM. Never bring any food inside the tents as dingoes will tear apart the tents looking for it - even if it's already gone they can still smell the food that was there and will look for it. When possible keep food in a dingo cage off of the ground. There is also a camp ground at Central Station and this must be pre-booked.

Backcountry
Along the main beach, there are designated areas for camping amongst the dunes. These are marked by wooden signs indicating areas where camping is permitted and where it is forbidden. In all cases, a permit is required to camp, and in some areas advanced bookings are required.

During busy periods, arrive early in the day to ensure your camping area. Camp fires outside of the official campsites are no longer permitted, with Rangers patrolling the beach and issuing fines for infringements. Be dingo safe; lock all food away when unattended.

Stay safe

 * K'gari is home to approximately 150 dingoes - Australia's wild dog. These animals can become aggressive - a 9 year old boy was killed in 2001 - and should not be approached or fed.  Feeding of dingoes carries a $250 fine, and all food should be secured (in vehicles or food boxes) when unattended.
 * Swimming in the ocean is not recommended owing to both the dangerous surf conditions and the number of sharks that inhabit the waters (Indian Head is a shark breeding ground).
 * Drive safely on the sand and obey the speed limits - the beach is classed as a highway, so police will run speed checks and breath tests for drivers. Speed limit on the main beach is 80 km/h and on soft sand tracks 30 km/h, unless otherwise signed.
 * Due to the temperate climate, saltwater crocodiles are not normally present within K'gari's waterways. However, there have been reports of crocodiles sighted in the Fraser Coast region, including on K'gari. This is very rare and almost unheard of, yet the presence of a large (4-meter) male saltwater crocodile was reported in March of 2009. The crocodile, however, was not captured so the report remains inconclusive.
 * Much of K'gari had been destroyed by the December 2020 bushfires. Remember that the landscape is still recovering.

title: K'gari


text:
Fraser Valley

The Fraser Valley is an agricultural region of the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada. It is gradually being transformed into suburbs of Vancouver.

Cities

 * — the birthplace of British Columbia stretches from the Fraser River south to the US border in the south and is home to a wealth of parks, wineries, agriculture and historical sites.
 * — a major regional town with a significant commercial airport, and a hub of agriculture.

 * has a small regional airport and sits at the confluence of the Fraser and Pitt Rivers. Pitt River drains Pitt Lake, the only fresh-water tidal body in the world. It is a destination for boating and fishing, with a few small resorts on the lake and the option to do an overnight canoe trip up Widgeon Creek.
 * hosts the only Lower Mainland location for Wild Play
 * — home to a Catholic Mission that can be toured
 * — where the Fraser River emerges from the mountains
 * — largely rural area along the north shore of the Fraser River
 * — a pretty vacation area next to the mountains
 * — gateway to British Columbia's interior and the eastern end of the Fraser Valley

Near Chilliwack

 * (see Chiliwack article)
 * — on Cultus Lake

 * (see Chiliwack article)

Near Maple Ridge

 * — a rugged park set amid the Coast Mountains, used for hiking, horseback riding, camping, and boating (see Maple Ridge article)

Understand
The Fraser Valley has lush fertile farmland, which contributes a large portion of the local produce. The Fraser is also the world's greatest salmon producing river, and a focus for the region's economy, transportation and culture. The towns of Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, and Langley are transforming from agricultural to suburb. Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, and Hope remain closer to their agricultural roots, but are also transforming.

Airport in Fraser Valley with scheduled commercial flights

 * offers flights to some Canadian destinations and some international destinations. It is not served by public transit.

Other nearby airports with scheduled commercial flights

 * is further, but is the main airport serving the region with far more flight options.
 * in Washington state, offering some flights within the United States of America

By train

 * Westbound stops in the Fraser Valley include in Hope, Chilliwack and Abbotsford
 * Eastbound stops in the Fraser Valley include in Mission, Kent, and near Hope
 * Eastbound stops in the Fraser Valley include in Mission, Kent, and near Hope

By public transit

 * Also operates a route between Abbotsford and Langley.
 * Operates West Coast Express operates during weekdays along the north side of the Fraser River between Vancouver and Mission.

By car

 * Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway)
 * Eastbound from Vancouver via Surrey
 * Westbound from Kamloops via Cache Creek in the Thompson-Nicola
 * Highway 3 (Crowsnest Highway). Westbound from Princeton in the Similkameen. Highway 3 terminates in Hope.
 * Highway 5 (Coquihalla Highway). Westbound from Kamloops via Merritt in the Thompson-Nicola. Highway 5 terminates in Hope.
 * Highway 9 (in Washington) / Highway 11 (in British Columbia). Northbound from Sedro-Woolley in the North Cascades. Highway 11 terminates in Mission after passing through Abbotsford.
 * Highway 539 (in Washington) / Highway 13 (in British Columbia). Northbound from Bellingham in the North Cascades. Highway 13 terminates in Langley.

Get around
A rental car or other means such as a bicycle are needed to access more rural areas of this region or if unwilling to wait for buses, each which run every half hour or less frequently.

By public transit

 * BC Transit operates bus services within and connecting Abbotsford, Mission, and Chilliwack. Transit service from Chilliwack to Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, and Hope are available, but infrequent. Transit connections with the Metro Vancouver's TransLink network are available throughout the day via Langley.

By car

 * South of the Fraser River, Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) connects communities.

 * North of the Fraser River, Highway 7 connects communities.
 * Bridges across the Fraser River are located as follows from west to east:
 * Golden Ears Way between Langley and Pitt Meadows
 * Highway 11 between Abbotsford and Mission
 * Highway 9 between Bridal Falls and Agassiz
 * Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) between Hope and the north side of the river

See

 * Fort Langley National Historic Site of Canada in Langley helps to tell the story of local fur trade and agricultural pursuits, as well as the colonization story and the ongoing history of the area.
 * The Greater Vancouver Zoo in Langley is a mid-sized zoo with lions, tigers, giraffes, zebras, hippos and monkeys.

 * The Fraser Valley Bald Eagle Festival is held in Mission on the third weekend of each November to view the third largest gathering of bald eagles in North America.

 * The Abbotsford International Air Show is held the second weekend in August. Flight demonstrations primarily by Canadian and US craft.

Do
Golden Ears Provincial Park near Maple Ridge and the Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park near Chilliwack have plenty of easy to moderate hiking trails. Golden Ears is a major camping and recreation destination for Vancouverites, and has a day-use area for swimming and boating.

Wine tasting
Though it isn't quite the viniculture hotbed that the Okanagan is, there are a number of wineries in the Fraser Valley. See Domaine de Chaberton Estate, which started it all, and Township 7 Vineyards & Winery, Glenugie Winery, and Blackwood Lane Vineyards & Winery in Langley; The Fort Wine Company in historic Fort Langley; Blossom Winery (famous for ice wine and fruit wines) and Sanduz Estate Wines in Richmond; River's Bend Winery in Surrey; Lotusland Vineyards in Abbotsford; Blue Heron Winery in Pitt Meadows; and Kermode Wild Berry Winery in Dewdney; and St. Urban Winery in Chilliwack. Look for the handy Wine Map from Wines of British Columbia. Consider visiting only three to five wineries in a day, to give yourself time to enjoy the visit, available at most of these wineries. Many wineries will limit you to only three to five wine samples in one visit. Some may charge you a couple of dollars for the tasting, which might be waived if you purchase some wine.

title: Fraser Valley


text:
Fréjus

Fréjus is a coastal town in the French Riviera, near St. Raphael. This Roman city's many buildings make it the richest concentration of this period in France after Arles.

Understand
It was founded as a port during the era of Julius Caesar as "Forum Julii", meaning 'market of Julius'.

Port Fréjus which has a capacity of 750 moorings, is surrounded by beautiful fine sandy beaches.

By car
Access to Fréjus, from the A8 motorway, is by exit 37 (from Paris, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, then by Route Nationale 7, or by exit 38 (from Nice) and the Departmental Route 37. The RN7 crosses the town from Puget-sur-Argens to Adrests-de-l'Esterel The seaside road from Sainte-Maxime or Saint-Raphaël is the RD559.

By coach
There is a bus station in Saint Raphaël, with links to Marseille, Cannes and Nice.

See

 * Church of St. Maximus
 * Esterel Hills
 * Esterel Hills

Do
There are quite good beaches between Frejus and St. Aygulf. Frejus has a beautiful cathedral There is a large water park (Parc Aquatica)

Eat
You can eat a lot of delicious meals without paying a lot.

title: Fréjus