Among the cities of the British Midlands, none has the vibrancy of Birmingham - former heart of the industrial revolution. Now that the factories have gone and the mills are still, this breezy city has transformed itself into a sophisticated destination for culture, shopping, and fine dining and a great place for meetings, seminars and conferences. The fine range of Birmingham hotels, too, help make your stay there a delight. Here are some great reasons to spend your next holiday or hold your conference in Birmingham.

For one thing, Birmingham, the former ‘city of a thousand trades’, is today a handsome, vibrant city graced with pedestrian squares, chic shopping centres, and a renowned waterfront. As a result of its industrial heritage, Birmingham is home to more canals than Venice. Brindleyplace at The Water's Edge in the restored canal area offers a wide choice of Restaurants, specialty shops and bars.

A stroll around downtown Birmingham admiring the fine architecture is a rewarding experience. One of the finest examples is the Town Hall which was built in the 1830s. Crafted from Anglesey marble, it's a splendid example of Victorian Architecture and takes its inspiration from classical Roman temples and its great hall can seat 2000 people.

Other examples of fine architecture include the 18th century St. Philip's Cathedral with its magnificent Baroque tower and stained glass windows, St. Martin's, Birmingham's oldest church, and St. Chad's - the first Roman Catholic Church to be built in Britain after the Reformation.

And as the UK's second largest city, Birmingham is no slouch when it comes to shopping, dining and entertainment. Take your pick from a wide array of shops and department stores and malls and markets. You can pick up some locally made items as this erstwhile industrial powerhouse that once churned out machines and utensils now produces chocolate and jewellery.

In fact, if you love chocolate, you'll be in heaven at Cadbury World in Bournville. Here you can indulge your senses at a multi-media experience all about chocolate. Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, produces most of the jewellery made in Britain today. You can witness the skills of the craftsmen at the Museum of the Jewellery Quarter.

Culture buffs are also in for a treat. Today's Birmingham is now the place to enjoy a wide array of artistic offerings including visual and performing arts, music and theatre. The city is home to such institutions as the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and Birmingham Royal Ballet. Meanwhile Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery not only houses display relating to the history of the city but also displays one of the world's finest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art. For modern art, be sure to visit the Ikon Gallery, which is one of Europe's top spots for displaying the latest creations.

Birmingham has plenty to offer outdoor lovers, too. There are the Botanical Gardens and Glasshouses in Edgbaston. Plus Kings Heath Park, home to BBC Gardeners' World, is a magnet for all botany and gardening buffs. For family outings, there's Cannon Hill Park with its boating lakes, playgrounds, tennis courts tropical greenhouses and nature conservation areas. And if you want something even more expanisve, head for the Sutton Park National Nature Reserve at Sutton Coldfield. Here you can wander and trek over 2400 acres of woodlands, heaths, wetland and pools and enjoy viewing many species of wildlife.

Another great thing about Birmingham is the ease of getting there and away. If you're driving, London is just 2 1/2 hours away along the M40. Birmingham New Street is a major rail hub connecting with the major cities of the UK. Likewise, National Express coaches connect with the coach station in Digbeth. For more distant destinations, Birmingham International Airport offers flights to and from Dubai, Chicago and New York to mention just a few.

The next great reason to visit is the fine range of hotels in Birmingham. You have a broad array of options including luxury metro hotels, simple budget hostels, or bed and breakfasts. For a holiday packed with a range of activities and great shopping, head for Birmingham. So start booking your holiday or conference in Birmingham today. The great range of Birmingham hotels will make your stay complete, and Birmingham conferencing is ideal for all types of events.

If you're visiting Birmingham for business of leisure, check out the Comfort inn Birmingham Hotel. Located in the heart of the city and with 40 sumptuous Comfort inn Hotel Birmingham Bedrooms to choose from, you're guaranteed a comfortable stay. Comfort inn Birmingham conferencing facilities can accommodate up to 50 delegates for all kinds of events.