If you are planning to visit or live in Wales, you're in for a treat. Wales, which is located on the western edge of Europe and surrounded on three sides by water, is a truly beautiful area. Wales is a fascinating area, full of castles and beautiful scenery. Although there are plenty of sights to see and attractions you won't want to miss, here are just a few to help get you started.

Museum of Welsh Life

If you enjoy visiting museums, you will not want to miss the Museum of Welsh Life. Located just outside of Cardiff at St. Fagans, this fascinating museum is one of the largest folk museums in Europe. Established in 1948, this museum has many diverse exhibits and collections that represent the overall character and spirit of Wales. In fact, there are many structures in this museum which were moved from their original location to the museum, providing an extremely authentic look at life in Wales.

In addition to the realistic buildings and structures, there are also many craftsmen demonstrating traditional crafts and skills. Galleries include authentic costumes, beautiful handmade quilts, traditional love spoons and other interesting items. You can also tour St. Fagans Castle as well as a lovely medieval church. If you are planning a trip to Wales, a visit to the Museum of Welsh Life is a great way to spend the day.

National Botanical Garden of Wales

Located in South Wales at Llanarthne, you'll find the National Botanic Garden of Wales. This beautiful facility is actually quite new, opening in 2000. It was the first new national botanic garden created in the United Kingdom in over 200 years, double the size of London's Kew Gardens. This garden is dedicated to helping preserve many endangered plant species. The garden includes a double-walled garden, which is quite unusual and beautiful. The Great Glasshouse is also a popular attraction within the gardens. This giant glasshouse was created as a contemporary version of the beautiful Victorian glass conservatories, such as what can be viewed in Kew Gardens. It's actually the world's largest single-span greenhouse. Inside, you'll find a wide variety of endangered plants from areas as diverse as Australia, Chile, South Africa and the United States. This beautiful botanical garden is a great way to spend a day in Wales.

Hay-on-Wye

Hay-on-Wye is located in the beautiful Wye Valley, which borders England. This quaint medieval market town is the perfect destination if you are a book lover. Claiming to be the world's used-book capital, you'll find plenty of quaint little book shops to explore along the winding alleys and streets. In addition to books, you'll also find shops that sell antiques. There are also charming tea shops to visit when the weather is cool, as well as an ice cream parlor for a refreshing treat during warmer weather. Hay-on-Wye is also where the annual Guardian Hay Festival of Literature is held each year. If you enjoy literary events and poetry readings, this early summer festival should definitely be on your to-do list.

Jessica Ackerman, author and staff designer at WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, specializes in huge wall vases and tropical wall sculptures.