With a population approaching two hundred thousand citizens, Bournemouth is easily the biggest city in the county of Dorset. Don't let its size fool you into thinking that it is a crowded, dirty, littered metropolis, however; on the contrary, Bournemouth fits right in with the other beautiful towns that make up pristine Dorset. The city is in fact yet another gorgeous English seaside resort town boasting some of the finest coastal scenery ever imagined. Anybody who doubts the therapeutic powers of such a town need only consult the survey conducted in 2007 by the First Direct Bank which found that Bournemouth is in fact the "happiest" place to live in England. Disneyland may have the monopoly on the happiest place on Earth but the eighty two percent of Bournemouth's population claim they are thrilled to the brim with their life in the city and by sheer numbers the House of Mouse may be in fact relegated to the number two spot.

Most people who haven't been to Bournemouth assume that the city is predominantly laid right alongside the coast but in fact much of Bournemouth's urban area is further inland. This is actually a good thing, though, because it allows the incredible beaches to maintain a sense of calm and peace as well as an aura of grandeur on account of the fact that only the finest hotels and eateries are fortunate enough to offer a beachside view. Some of the most scenic piers in the country are found on these pristine beaches as well and they too add to the natural splendor of the town. The Boscombe Pier in particular is something that deserves its own article due to its imposing facade and rich history. Built in the late 19th century, the pier still juts out proudly to the sea and offers an unimpeded view of the famed Jurassic Coast. The Jurassic Coast is itself worthy of acclaim due to the fact that it is nearly eighty miles long and virtually untouched by the machinations of man. One can drive a few miles north and find the Jurassic Coast and be essentially free of humanity if one wishes.

Bournemouth's convenient location also allows it to avoid much of the rainy climate that plagues a large portion of England. The average yearly rainfall in the town is far below that of the rest of the country and its temperate climate allows it to be just warm enough for almost year-round enjoyment. In addition to the beaches there are famous parks like Central Gardens and the large student population in the city has created a thriving club and bar scene that almost puts the natural offerings to shame. Bournemouth is truly a city that has something for everybody and it is little wonder why the town has had a near universal appreciation ever since its inception. If you have yet to visit this idyllic city on the coast you would do well to check with a travel agent and start the adventure of your life right away.

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