WELCOME TO CARDIFF CENTENARY CITY AND 50 YEARS CAPITAL OF WALES 2005

The capital city of Wales has altered beyond recognition over the past decade or so. Massive investment in the city, the regeneration of its docks into a superb waterfront and a general interest in all things Welsh, from its music scene to its new Assembly, mean that Cardiff is rapidly earning its place as an exciting European destination.

Cardiff, being a capital city, has the good fortune to house such national gems as the National Museum of Wales - housing one of the best Impressionist collections in Europe outside Paris, the Museum of Welsh Life and stunning civic buildings surrounded by acres and acres of parkland. The city offers a year-round calendar of events for the very latest, contact Cardiff Visitor Centre on 029 20 227281or www.visitcardiff.info Cardiff is celebrating its centenary as a city and its 50th year as Wales' capital in 2005.

The city is already buzzing in anticipation of the celebrations so now is the time to pay a visit this dynamic European capital.

TRAVEL

Cardiff Central Station is right in the heart of the city and is the main hub for trains and buses from all corners of South Wales. Junction 29a from the M4 is the main access route from the East and junction 33 from the West.

WHAT'S ON

For comprehensive information on what's coming up during the period of your stay, do contact the Cardiff Visitor Centre on 029 20 227281. The staff will be able to fill you in on all the city's events, theatre and show listings and concerts, or alternatively log onto www.visitcardiff.info.

Capital for Events

Cardiff has a thriving calendar of regular events and is by now established as a leading venue for a whole range of arts, music and sporting activities. The summer season of events are drawing to a close now, but don't worry if you missed the hugely successful Cardiff festival, the jazz, roots and blues at the World Port music festival, the colourful MAS carnival or the tasty International Food and Drink festival - as there is a lot more to come.

Autumn will see the Cardiff harbour festival visiting Cardiff Bay once again, and the city centre will be buzzing with the regions largest Mardi Gras in September. There are also regular art and craft events, the opening of the Wales Millennium Centre and in the run up to Christmas the city will again be transformed into a Winter Wonderland, complete with outdoor ice rink and a great party atmosphere.

2005 will also be a year packed full of events including:

BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, the Oscars of song, which takes place here biennially.

The International Festival of Musical Theatre (biennial), a wonderful celebration of the musical genre, which kicked off in 2002 will be staged again in April 2005 to coincide with the opening of the Wales Millennium Centre and centenary celebrations.

Sporting events including the FA Cup final, Wales versus England as they vie for a place in the 2006 World Cup, the Taekwondo World Championships, and of course the Six Nations Rugby Tournament.