| If you're not familiar with the Cardiff Bay area of South | | | | waterfront community. With tons of shopping |
| Wales, then you may appreciate the following | | | | destinations, quaint and imaginative hotels, and some of |
| information. This area of the capital city of Wales is | | | | the best pubs, bars, and other nightlife in the city, the |
| regarded as one of the most successful regeneration | | | | area has certainly rebounded nicely. |
| projects in the UK. There are a number of reasons | | | | It's close to many of the city's major attractions, |
| why this particular project was so successful and why | | | | including City Centre, Cardiff Castle, the Millennium |
| it's a hub for tourist activity today. | | | | Centre, the National Museum of Wales, and the |
| The History of Cardiff Bay | | | | Senedd, which houses the National Assembly of |
| This waterfront area was once known as Tiger Bay | | | | Wales. Techniquest, which is an educational science |
| and included Butetown and the Cardiff Docks. At its | | | | centre, Roald Dahl Plass, which is a large open |
| prime in 1913, Tiger Bay exported over ten million tons | | | | amphitheater, and Mermaid Quay, the area's nightlife |
| of coal. After the Great Depression, the coal exports | | | | destination, all bring a special element to this special |
| fell to five million tons a year. The city never really | | | | district of the city. You'll find many festivals and |
| recovered and although World War 2 brought new life | | | | carnivals here and there is certainly something for |
| into the area, coal exports ceased in 1964. | | | | everyone. |
| The Cardiff Bay Barrage, a very controversial project | | | | You'll also find a wide selection of watersport activities, |
| at the time, created a 500 acre freshwater lake. It | | | | a Wetland Reserve, and the Yacht Club. The |
| dams the Taff and Ely Rivers, effectively ending one | | | | International Sports Village is currently under |
| of the problems with Tiger Bay. One of the reasons | | | | construction and the ice rink is open through the winter |
| the area had become so desolate was due to the | | | | months. |
| tides. Only about two hours a day allowed for ships to | | | | Plan to Spend a Few Days |
| come in and out. This area was eventually given the | | | | This great, historic city has much to offer a visitor, but |
| name used today; however, it certainly was not | | | | you'll need a few days to see it all. Shopping is one of |
| without controversy as well. | | | | the favorite pastimes here, as are many of the |
| What You'll Find Here Now | | | | sporting and cultural events. Plan your stay well, and |
| This is one of the most popular destinations in the area, | | | | you're sure to want to return again! |
| as it has been completely developed into a wonderful | | | | |