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Welsh Town Wikipedifies Itself with QR Codes

There are times when we think of QR codes the same way we think of particularly stupid social media projects. Which is to say, not highly. This isn't just a standup punchline any more. There really are tourist attractions, museums especially, that plaster QR codes inside subway and metro cars. What species of idiocy is that?

Other times we can't help but smile a little at the sheer earnestness of towns trying to attract tourists with shiny things. The Welsh town of Monmouth, for instance, is according to Wikipedia not only thousands of years old but has also "been established as a tourist centre for some 200 years." So you can already tell they're innovators.

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Swanea / Wales / Festivals / → All Tags

Back of the Envelope Travel Guide: Escape Into the Park Festival

This Sunday is Escape Into the Park, Swansea's annual orgy of dance and live music. The event is going to be ridiculous - when one of the stage areas is described as "an intensive hard house arena," that's pretty safe to say. So while you'll be spending your day drinking, sweating, and who knows what else with thousands of people, take a peek at our advice on how to chill out and recuperate the rest of the time in town.

Where to Stay
Sure, you can camp, but sometimes a shower is necessary. Go with the Dragon Hotel (The Kingsway) to contrast the down-and-dirty festival atmosphere with a bit of spotless comfort. If you're feeling especially worn out, hop over to the spa and ask for the "Spoil Me" package - it does just that.

Where to Eat
After stuffing yourself full of fried festival food, dust yourself off for dinner at the Fairyhill Restaurant (Reynoldston, Gower). Not only is their wine list strong, but they also make excellent and creative use of local ingredients. Try the Welsh black beef.

Where to Drink
If you feel you need to drink more after 12 straight hours of alcohol consumption and general dehydration, forgive us for this corruption of Dylan Thomas's work and do not go gently into that good night, but rather, rage, rage against sleep at the No Sign Wine Bar (56 Wind Street). Thomas, a Swansea native, frequented the spot in the 30's, and despite its fame and the changing neighborhood, the No Sign remains a good, genuine spot for a drink.

[Photo: Glen Bowman]

Related Stories:
Hotels in Swansea [HotelChatter]
Getting to Know the Welsh [Jaunted]