The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg is a small landlocked state in the North West of the continental European Union, bordered by France, Germany and Belgium. Due to its strategic position, Luxembourg was, from the 16th century until 1867, when its walls were dismantled, one of Europes greatest fortified sites.

The worlds only Grand Duchy, Luxembourg is a constitutional monarchy neighbouring Belgium, France, and Germany. Covering less than 1000 miles, Luxembourg is home to nearly 450 000 residents, with about a fifth of these individuals residing in or near Luxembourg City. Roman Catholic is the primary religion, and foreign residents represent more than a third of Luxembourgs population.

The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg enjoys a temperate climate without extremes. The sea has but a moderating influence on the weather. The air is clean, beneficial and health giving.

The countries 459 500 inhabitants, 90 000 live in Luxembourg City and its immediate surroundings. The number of foreign residents in Luxembourg has already exceeded 32 percent of the population. It is the highest proportion of foreigners of any EU country.

A number of great reasons to visit Luxembourg include some of the following.

Chemin de la Corniche, lift your spirits at this pedestrian promenade commonly known as Europes most beautiful balcony

Take the Wenzel Walk through the city of Luxembourgs oldest quarters for an engaging and compelling millennial history.

Wine Tasting, initiate a toast as you sample the dry whites that help put Moselle Valley on the map.

The National Museum of Military History, get the big picture of the Battle of the Bulge.

Gourmet Delight, youll find more Michelin restaurants per capita here than any other country in the world.

Bikers Paradise, spin your wheels in the Ardennes region, a scenic wonderland for bikers.

Every year an international hot air balloon competition known as the LUXGSM Trophy is organised on the shore of the lake at the abbey city of Echternach. This year around thirty balloons will gather at Echternach Lake from 25th to 29th July. The highlight for spectators will be Saturday evening 28th July when there will be a spectacular nightglow with fireworks and a dance. Last year the LUXGSM Trophy attracted no less than 20,000 spectators.

A Safe Haven Luxembourg ranks as the worlds top city for personal safety and security, according to a 2005 Quality of Life survey by Mercer Human Resource Consulting, a leading consulting organization with offices worldwide.