Brighton, England

Located about an hour south of London by train, Brighton was originally called Brighthelmston and dates from before the Domesday Book (1086). In the 18th century it was well know as a health resort, as people thought there was restorative properties in the sea water. It became a popular destination for day-trippers after the arrival of the railway in 1841, and remains so today as Londoners flock down to the beach on sunny days. Brighton experienced rapid population growth reaching a peak of over 160,000 by 1961. There are also population and home price spikes every time a high speed railway is proposed between London and Brighton, which is yet to happen.
The two biggest tourist attractions in Brighton are the pier and the Pavilion. Brighton Pier (originally known as "The Brighton Marine Palace and Pier", or the Palace Pier) was opened in 1899. It features a large funfair, restaurants, arcade halls, and great views of the Brighton coastline. Really it is a seedy tourist trap where everything is too expensive, but it is fun to take a walk out to the end. The Royal Pavilion was formerly a Royal palace, built as the home for the Prince Regent during the early 1800's. It has amazing Indian architecture and Oriental interior design, and is constantly referred to as the Prince's pleasure palace as he entertained all his lady friends there.. Queen Victoria did not like the place much so she sold the building and surrounding grounds to the town in 1849 for £53,000, but she took all the furniture and even the wall paper.

Brighton is a eclectic mix of the old and new. It is also a very progressive place, with a large gay and lesbian community. There are hundreds of artists displaying their work in the quirky shops along the lanes or on walls around town, and musicians playing gigs in the many venues in town on any night of the week. It also seems to be a safe haven for old musicians, with easy access to London and less hassle, you are likely to see Captain Sensible or Nick Cave doing their grocery shopping.
Most importantly, Brighton (and nearby Lewis) are home to my cousins, Michelle and Grant. Michelle is an amazing graphic artist who still plays in bands around town, but had a run in with fame when her band Frazier Chorus was signed to 4AD in 1987 and then released a full length record with Virgin. Her younger and equally talented brother Grant plays in the critically acclaimed band, The Mountain Firework Company, as well as others and can be seen in Berlin and the Edinburgh festival this summer.