Late Holidays

Holiday In Seoul South Korea

2011-08-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

The futuristic, 21st century city of Seoul is only one small part of this intriguing country which is rich in ancient culture and harmony. Have fun in vibrant Seoul, where neon signs compete with exquisite temples and palaces, shop in duty-free shops and take in the view from the Seoul Tower from where you can see the Han River as it winds through the city.

The mountainous countryside couldn't contrast more with Seoul. Here you will find thousands of temples, home to many thousand monks, where you can enjoy a contemplative stay. Temple hop in the former capital of the Silla kingdom, Gyeongju, and admire the beautifully preserved 80,000 wooden printing blocks of Buddhist scriptures, Tripikata Koreana, in Haeinsa Temple in Gayasan National Park. Take the cable car to a hilltop temple and soak in the hot springs. Explore ancient villages, take the high-speed train from Seoul to Busan or peek into North Korea from the Border Unification Observatory.

Bologna North of Italy

2011-07-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Situated in the North of Italy, Bologna provides a mixture of intellectualism, fine food and fashion. It is known to the rest of the world as the home of Bolognese sauce, usually served with pasta, and it has the oldest university in Europe. It is a centre for left-leaning political thinkers, and modern Italian socialist politics were born here in the early twentieth century.

While none of the buildings in Bologna can be considered exceptionally stunning, the city as a whole is an architectural masterpiece, with a harmonious maze of medieval streets. It is best explored on foot, and without a fixed plan. There will be plenty of eclectic museums, chic shopping centres and quaint canals to tempt you.

Bologna is the home to exclusive motor manufacturers Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Ducati, as well as fashion designers Furla and La Perla.

Holiday In Bilbao Spain

2011-07-08T21:48:00.000-07:00

One of the most intriguing cities of the Basque country in northern Spain, Bilbao is famed for its impressive state-of-the-art architectural projects, innovative infrastructure and thriving business and cultural scenes. Social and economic development is ripe, with the Port of Bilbao situated in a privileged position on the very eastern side of the Bay of Biscay. Since construction of the architectural wonder, The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao city has become an even greater hub of creative ingenuity, making it a magnet for visitors seeking to experience the combination of Bilbao's fascinating art-culture, the many pretty beaches nearby, the famous century-old suspension bridge, and the beautiful surrounding Basque countryside.

Holiday In Berlin Germany

2011-07-08T21:38:00.000-07:00

Holidays to Berlin are surprising to say the least. Since the crumbling of the famous wall this city's gone from strength to strength. Gone are images of war and spy stories - these days it's all World Cup finals and more culture than you shake a Bratwurst at.

If we're talking nightlife, this place is one of Europe's top party capitals. It may sound like a cliché, but Berlin holidays really do have something for everyone. Lounges for cocktail sippers. Drinking culture for the avant-garde. And, of course, techno clubs for the 24 hour party people.

Like most cities, Berlin's got its fair share of shops. If your summer holidays need to have at least one shopping spree, point your Visa towards Ku'damm. It's home to the swanky KaDeWe department store, which is a tourist attraction in itself. You'll also find malls and departments stores, along with designer stores and boutiques. There's also a flea market that runs through the street of Strasse des 17 Juni, where you can pick up handmade bits and bobs like pots and rugs.

Holiday In Barcelona

2011-07-08T21:28:00.000-07:00

Holidays to Barcelona top travel wish lists everywhere – and with good reason. The city's stellar reputation makes other cities positively lime with envy, and year after year it continues to top the popularity polls. So what makes it so completely drop-everything-and-get-me-there now? Gaudi greats like the inspired La Sagrada Familia. The heady highlife of Las Ramblas. And wow factor sights like the city's famous football stadium. Holidays to Barcelona bring you all this, and so much more.

Holiday In Avignon

2011-07-08T01:52:00.000-07:00

Situated on the River Rhone, the historic holiday destination of Avignon is famed for being the Vatican of the 14th century; six successive Popes resided here from 1309, making it one of Europe's largest and most important cities of the time. The papacy retreated back to Rome in 1378, but this was just the beginning of a battle between the Italian capital and Avignon for control of the Church's riches and power. Altogether Avignon was the seat for nine Popes, until the last, Pope Benedict XIII, fled into self-exile in 1409. Without the Pope, the city went into a decline that has been exacerbated ever since by floods, fire, the plague and the Le Mistral, the harsh wind that whistles down the Rhone valley in winter. Avignon supposedly was named by the Celts who gave the area the name 'Avenio' or 'the town of violent winds'. Despite all this, Avignon has one of the best-preserved centres in France, a strong holiday attraction. Piercing the skyline are the beautiful spires of the Palais des Papes, and along the cobbled streets are countless richly decorated buildings, ancient churches and spectacular monuments and museums. Imposing medieval walls, built in 1403 by Pope Benedict, enclose the old town. The yearly Avignon Festival draws performers and art enthusiasts from all over France every July. Despite the huge influx of tourists, which double the town's population of 100,000, this is a wonderful festival and a must-see for anyone on holiday in the Avignon area.

Holiday In Athens

2011-07-08T01:40:00.000-07:00

Athens, the capital city of Greece, is one of the oldest cities in the world having a three thousand year history. We have many reasons to thank the Greeks who led the way towards the civilization and the democratisation of the world. Athens was the birthplace of many ancient scholars and philosophers including Socrates, Plato, Sophocles and Euripides.

Surrounded by mountains, Athens has one of the best climates in Europe. The city is filled with magnificent classical Greek remains including the Parthenon in the Acropolis. The modern city has every kind of entertainment catering for all tastes as well as a huge variety of shops.

There are a number of beaches on the Greek mainland offering wide ranging facilities. With a long season of guaranteed sunshine it is no surprise that an Athens holiday appeals to so many people.

Athens with its magnificent remains from the glorious days of the Greek empire will more than gratify the appetite of those interested in ancient history and archaeology.

Those who enjoy walking and mountain biking will find ample opportunity in the mountains around Athens. In the forested hills there is a variety of wild life including the endangered brown bear, as well as wild cats, goats and roe deer.

With excellent restaurants, bars and clubs there is as much to do at night as there is during the day.

Holiday In Amsterdam

2011-07-08T01:35:00.000-07:00

Holidays to Amsterdam are all about letting your hair down in Europe's most laid-back and liberal city. Canals, culture or coffee shops – it doesn't matter what's got you looking at Amsterdam. Holidays here are a sure fire hit.

Amsterdam makes you feel right at home from the moment you step out onto its cobbled streets. The people are friendly, the food's that great mix of foreign and familiar – and the centre's reassuringly small, so you can wander without fear of getting lost. Forget the stress of big city breaks – travel to Amsterdam is dedicated to taking it easy.

And what a place to do it. Just picture yourself drifting along the flower-fringed canals beneath the beautiful mansions in Jordaan district. Or taking a leisurely stroll through the Old Quarter along the Damark, dipping in and out of the shops on Kalverstraat. For the ultimate Dutch experience, it's time to brave those cobbles and cruise round on a bike. If only all city breaks where as chilled out as this.

Inbetween relaxing and unwinding, make time for Amsterdam's superb cultural scene. The haunting hallways of Anne Frank's House. Those darlings of the art world, the Stedelijk, the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. And museums about everything from hash to hanky-panky. There really is something for everyone!

The best bit about bargain holidays to Amsterdam? After all that sightseeing, you've got a huge selection of traditional bars and trendy boltholes to kick back in. Toking in a café or sipping Amstel in lively bar-lined square, Amsterdam evenings have perfected the art of relaxation. Just sit back and enjoy!

Singapore Science Centre

2011-06-27T20:15:00.000-07:00

The Singapore Science Centre was created as a fun way to educate children on the wonders of science, and it's a great experience for the entire family. Here, you'll find over 1,000 interactive exhibits, such as the Aviation Gallery which demonstrates the principles of flight, and gives you an account of how man first explored the skies. Don't miss the latest offering at the OmniMax Theatre, which offers 3-D IMAX movies on topics which have ranged from the Great Pyramids to great amusement park rides to life on the moon.

The Universal Studios Singapore

2011-06-27T20:10:00.000-07:00

The Universal Studios Singapore is the first of its kind to open in Southeast Asia. Though not all rides and attractions are complete and ready for service, the park has more than 20 attractions in themed zones including the Lost World, Ancient Egypt, New York, Hollywood, Madagascar and Far Far Away (remember Shrek?). Regarding the rides, two are water themed and five are thrilling roller coasters of which two of are currently the world's tallest ‘dueling’ roller coasters (themed after the hit television series Battlestar Galactica). Families with small children can also make the most of the kids’ roller coaster and a merry-go-round too.

The Singapore Flyer

2011-06-27T20:05:00.000-07:00

The Singapore Flyer is the world’s largest observation wheel. A one-of-a-kind experience and built over a three-story terminal building, the Flyer is 150 metres in diameter, 165 metres high, and travels at 0.21m per second (it is some 30 metres taller than the famous London Eye!) With breathtaking panorama views that are so radically different during the day and at night, it’s hard to choose the best time to take a ride. Passengers will get to see such city sights as the Singapore River, Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Empress Place and the Padang.

Deal of the Day: save £607 pp in Cyprus

2011-06-11T17:54:00.000-07:00

Holiday details: Sovereign Luxury Travel are offering a huge saving of £607 pp off the price of a 7 night stay at the InterContinental Aphrodite Hills Resort in Cyprus.

Boasting stunning views over Aphrodite’s Rock and looking out to over the Mediterranean, the hotel is also offering a complimentary room upgrade as part of the package.

Price: £879 pp, based on 2 sharing 7 nights on a half-board basis. Price includes return flights from London Gatwick and private transfers

Date: book by 14 June for departure 29 June 2011

Book with: Sovereign Luxury Travel

Tags: Cyprus, holiday deals June 2011, Sovereign Luxury Travel

This entry was posted on Thursday, June 9th, 2011 at 12:01 am and is filed under News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

Camping in the Antarctic…?

2011-06-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

One Ocean Expeditions has introduced a new ‘Antarctica Off-The-Beaten-Track’ adventure cruise incorporating extraordinary outdoor pursuits not usually available on Antarctic and Arctic cruises.

Passengers will have the option to experience ski touring, overnight sea kayaking trips – exclusive in Antarctica to One Ocean Expeditions – and full-day expedition field photography with renowned Polar photographer, Daisy Gilardini. There is also snow shoeing, hiking, cruising in inflatable Zodiacs and overnight camping in the stunning Polar terrain, all included in the price.

The new cruise sails from Ushuaia on 8 November 2011 on Akademik Ioffe, an impressive and comfortable ice-strengthened ship designed for Polar research.

As the ship journeys to the Antarctic Peninsula through the Drake Passage Polar experts will give presentations on snow safety, icebergs, wildlife and history.

It is planned that excursions will include Neko Harbour, Wilhelmina Bay and the southerly Petermann Island to observe Weddell, crabeater and elephant seals, skuas and other seabirds as well as an abundance of penguins, including some very large colonies of the comical Adélie penguin.

This 12-night expedition includes one hotel night in Buenos Aires pre-cruise, return flights between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, all meals and accommodation plus Zodiac excursions and landings, special hiking programmes, ship transfers, foul weather gear and overnight camping. Prices start from US$8,390 (approx £5,250) pp.

Deal of the Day: save £490 pp on luxury South Africa

2011-06-11T10:09:00.000-07:00

Holiday details: Rainbow Tours are offering a saving of £490 pp on stays at the Tuningi Safari Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa.

The 5* safari lodge is situated within the 165,000 acre reserve, in the North West Province of South Africa, offering luxury accommodation and outstanding safari opportunities for only 16 guests at a time.

Price: from £2,860 pp, including return British Airways flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg, 5 nights full board accommodation and additional activities.

Date: departures until 30 July 2011

Book with: Rainbow Tours

Deal of the Day: a free week in France

2011-06-11T06:05:00.000-07:00

Holiday details: Wake Up In France are offering a free weeks stay in France this autumn when you book a weeks holiday with them for this June.

Stay at the Mas de St Hilaire, Vendee, for example, then choose between a free week at the Residence du Golf d’Armagnac in south west France, or the Residence des Fontenelles, near St Gilles in the Vendee for an autumn getaway.

Price: from £299 pp, based on two sharing a week in June, with a free week this autumn.

Date: book by 15 June for June departures and free week between 17 September and 4 November 2011

Great value summer glacier skiing

2011-06-11T01:40:00.001-07:00

Peak Retreats is reporting a bumper – and unusual – late fall of snow which makes the glacier at Les Deux Alpes in perfect condition for summer skiing. Amazing prices, too, make it one of the best value options for those seeking an active summer holiday.

Peak Retreats’ Katie Knowles tells us: “After such a dire winter snow record, the Northern Alps have seen quite a lot of snow. Just last week, there were 40cms in Meribel. Snow depths across the Alps this morning were over 40cm in Les Arcs and Courchevel, 35cm in La Plagne and 30cm in Tignes and Val d’Isère.”

Tignes and Les Deux Alpes both open their slopes for glacier skiing on 18 June – but if the snow continues they may well bring it forward.

Glacier skiing in the summer is usually from 9am until around 1pm – then it’s off to laze around the pool or urn off some more energy with a wide range of activities such as mountain biking, white-water rafting, kayaking and more.

Summer glacier skiing suits any level of skier; for beginners the slopes are quieter and the snow is much softer so it hurts less if you fall.

It’s also ideal for intermediate and expert skiers wanting to perfect their technique or learn tricks in the park. New for 2011, Les Deux Alpes has introduced piste performance/ski technique/freestyle technique courses for all ages (from £174 pp for a 6 day course).

Peak Retreats’ Ski Active packages are available until end-August in Les Deux Alpes, home to Europe’s largest glacier.

Prices are from £406 pp based on four sharing a two-bedroom apartment in Le Goleon Val Ecrin, a four star residence. The price also includes a 6-day ski pass, free sports passes and, for 3 half days, mountain biking with a guide and white water sports – plus a short Channel crossing for a car and passengers.

Find out more from Peak Retreats.

Holidays In Botswana

2011-06-04T23:15:00.000-07:00

Botswana is historically one of the most expensive destinations to visit on the African continent with some very luxurious lodges providing access to some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa. The high cost of tailor made safaris in Botswana is directly due to the sheer quality of the experience you will enjoy. Many of the best areas to visit are private concessions, ensuring there is no crowding of vehicles on wildlife sightings. Yours will often be the only vehicle in the park - the ultimate in wildlife experiences.

A small change, however, has crept into the traditional Botswana safari - today you can find some very good value for money small group safaris. On these trips you can experience luxury camping with a chef, ensuite facilities, dedicated guides and high quality 4x4 vehicles. This is the perfect way of getting up close and personal to the wildlife of the Okavango Delta at the same time as meeting new people of a similar frame of mind and at a far more affordable price.

The best places to visit in Botswana include Moremi Game Reserve, Selinda Concession, Kwando Concession and Chobe National Park.

Holidays In Bardolino Italy

2011-06-04T23:05:00.000-07:00

Bardolino, Italy lies at the foot of rolling hills covered with orchards, olive groves and of course the vineyards for which the village is so famous. Bardolino hotels offer excellent accommodation, while the attractive and lively traffic-free centre is home to numerous bars, restaurants and smart shops.

Holidays In Verdura Golf & Spa Resort Sicily

2011-06-04T00:09:00.000-07:00

Six years in the making, the long anticipated Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is the latest addition to the Rocco Forte collection, and is set to become Sicily’s most prestigious and luxurious resort. The ultimate place to relax and unwind, the resort offers exclusivity, privacy, and exudes an air of elegance & refined simplicity. Located on the south coast of Sicily near the small village of Verdura, the development rolls across a vast area of stunning terrain, and consists of several ancient buildings, which have been sympathetically restored, using traditional materials, including volcanic tufa, cane and timber. The Olga Polizzi interiors are a blend of modern and traditional, with warm, earthy tones, designed to reflect the natural landscape.

The Resort offers two 18-hole championship golf courses, plus a 9-hole course and driving range, designed by golf course architect Kyle Phillips, who also designed the acclaimed courses of ‘Kingsbarns’ near St. Andrews, and ‘The Grove’ in Hertfordshire. A team of PGA-qualified professionals are available for group or one-to-one tuition, with tailor-made programmes to suit all ages and abilities. A full range of golfing equipment can be hired at the Clubhouse and electric golf carts are also available for hire. Built around a small piazza, the Clubhouse includes changing rooms with showers and lockers, lounge, pro-shop, boutiques, café bar, and a restaurant.

Holidays In Forte Village Resort Sardinia

2011-06-04T00:06:00.000-07:00

Forte Village Resort looks out onto a magnificent beach and welcomes you into its wonderful tropical gardens and elegance with its 8 hotels and 44 Suites. Maximum care and attention is dedicated to your children and their enjoyment.

For the adults, the Thaermae del Forte, Spa and wellness centre in the Resort’s garden, shimmer with pure harmony, offering thalassotherapy treatments that are one of the best of its kind in Europe. The fresh cuisine and vast menus served in the 21 gourmet restaurants provide the perfect end to the day.

A Forte Village holiday offers an unrivalled choice of pampering options. Superb cuisine, prepared by renowned chefs, choice of wine, dancing and entertainment linked to extensive sports and leisure facilities, make this self-contained Resort a long-standing holiday favourite in Sardinia.

Holidays In Sani Resort

2011-06-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sani Resort is a special place where nature and man exist in harmony of mainland Greece. A family-owned ecological reserve stretching across 1,000 acres, with endless golden beaches enchantingly framed by the crystal clear waters of the Aegean and the magnificent pine forests of the Kassandra peninsula. Sani Resort will exceed your expectations in every way. A serene setting where you can enjoy nature and relish luxury and comfort. And where there’s always something new to enjoy. A place where we’ll indulge your every wish and help you rediscover the simple things in life.

Holidays In Amalfi Coast

2011-06-03T23:56:00.000-07:00

The Amalfi Coast is best known for its dramatic coastal scenery deep gorges, violently-shaped rocks that plunge into a deep blue sea, tempered by the luxuriant vegetation that thrives in the favourable climate; lemons, oranges, olives, almonds, vines, camellias and bougainvillaea. Basked in a clear light, the shades of green and the vibrant hues of the flowers offer a welcome contrast to the deep blue of the sea and austere rock to which all life seems to cling along the coast. Human habitation thrives too in the tiny fishing villages in rocky coves and in the pink and white-washed flat-roofed or domed buildings that hug the cliffs in layers. The Amalfi Coast’s history of trading throughout the Mediterranean still shows in the Moorish and Byzantine architectural styles; domes and arcades, wrought-iron balconies and colourful ceramic tiles which depict the region, perhaps fishing boats, lemons and the sun.The regional cuisine is light and simple, based on local fish and shellfish, lemons and oranges, mozzarella and fresh herbs. Whilst the climate of the Amalfi Coast is particularly appealing too, there are numerous excursion and sightseeing possibilities for your holiday including the islands of Procida, Capri and Ischia, the city of Naples, the Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the romance of Ravello and the bustle of Sorrento.

Holidays In Puglia

2011-06-03T01:19:00.000-07:00

Puglia, or Apulia as it is sometimes called is the heel of Italy, it is magical and compelling. Its charm seduces everyone, its trulli houses fascinate, and, once discovered, its lasting impression is like a magnet to return. Adapting to eating really good food and having a slower pace of life, for a week or two is, of course, no hardship – just sheer joy.

Puglia, or Apulia as it is sometimes known, is a land of extraordinary colours and wonderful variety - an undulating plateau of rich, red earth, dark green pine-forested hillsides, silvery green olive trees and lush vineyards; sparkling white labyrinths of towns' historic centres, which seem to glisten in the sun; milky white mediaeval centres with their tangles of cobbled streets and alleyways; grey and natural hues of Baroque churches; dustings of pink on villa walls; and all against a backdrop of deep, deep blue Mediterranean sea and sky.

Holidays In Mallorca

2011-06-03T01:15:00.000-07:00

Mallorca is an island that has enjoyed something of a renaissance. Today it is a place of contrasts: there is hidden Mallorca where visitors shop in village markets, discover country restaurants or follow wild tracks under the peak of Puig Major. Then there is stylish Mallorca where guests can relax in elegant boutique hotels, luxurious villas or restored historic houses.

There are beautiful towns like old Sóller with its shady main square, and the glorious village of Deià, where the writer Robert Graves lies in a tiny churchyard overlooking the sea. Equally appealing are Valldemossa, with its dappled streets and Carthusian monastery, and the greens, blues and whites of old Pollença. The rocky coves of Cala d’Or are as pretty as anywhere on the island, whereas unspoiled and idyllic Fornalutx nestles in citrus groves. The capital, Palma, rejoices in tiled cafés, cloistered convents, Baroque mansions, marvellous shops, and its splendid cathedral.

Holidays In Paxos

2011-06-03T01:10:00.000-07:00

There is a delightful contrast of colours in the narrow, flagstoned streets of Paxos: whitewashed walls; pastel coloured shutters; multi-coloured café bar sun umbrellas; crimson and purple bougainvillaea; passion flower vines; oleander trees; potted plants on Venetian balconies and shop displays of fresh fruit.

The island resembles one vast garden thickly covered with olives planted by the Venetians over three hundred years ago and tall pine trees, which together descend to over 30 sheltered beaches on the east coast and the dramatic cliffs of the west coast. In the hills bracken and wild flowers, lilies, cyclamen and crocuses abound. The sea is crystal clear and clean. Views from Paxos of Corfu, the mainland of Greece nine miles away and along the island of Paxos itself, are outstanding.

AntiPaxos, the little vineyard island just one mile off the tip of Paxos, has only 30 inhabitants and some of the loveliest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean. AntiPaxos will appeal to couples looking for an unusual escape from even the smallest of crowds. There are four tavernas but no shops on AntiPaxos. One of the tavernas overlooking Voutoumi beach will usually remain open at night on request from June to September.

Holidays In Catalonia

2011-06-03T01:06:00.000-07:00

Catalonia nestles in the foothills of the Pyrenees and bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, Catalonia offers a wonderful natural beauty with its rugged landscape and inherent charm. The year round warm climate is less harsh than Southern Spain, the Catalonia area is lush with cornfields, cypress and olive trees, pine forests and cork-oaks. The beaches vary from long sandy bays like Playa de Pals, to small intimate coves such as Aigua Blava and Tamariu. Visitors are offered a wealth of memorable experiences from both the scenery and the culture of the area.

For those who enjoy the pleasures of discovering food in stunning surroundings, Catalan Cuisine will be another highlight of your trip. Catalonia is packed with restaurants to suit all tastes from the simplest farmhouse cooking at remarkably low prices, to the highest quality Catalan feast. Catalonia boasts many wine co-operatives that produce reds, whites, refreshing rosés and excellent sparkling Cavas to accompany any meal. The sporting facilities offered by the region are superb, with tennis, horse riding and sailing available. It is Golf however that has taken the Catalonia by storm. Some of the finest courses in Southern Europe are within just 30 minutes drive of Pals. In response to this increasing attraction, PCI now offers specialist golfing holidays to the region or can arrange single day games for the less enthusiastic.

There are many historical sites, museums and art treasures to enjoy in Catalonia, artists such as Dali, Miro and Picasso were all inspired by the region. For those who enjoy fascinating Medieval Villages, Museums and Art Treasures Catalonia is an essential destination - in particular the Dali museum at Figueres should not be missed. The capital of Catalonia is Barcelona, a historic city that provides a complete contrast to the relaxed atmosphere around Pals and Gerona. A bustling colourful city, Barcelona is a fascinating place to visit either as part of your holiday or as a separate out of season break. A heady blend of modern and ancient architecture, theatres, shops, restaurants and museums.

Holidays In Kyrenia

2011-05-30T23:53:00.000-07:00

Holidays in Kyrenia mean more than just the harbour and castle. Strolling through the streets of the old town, you will never be far away from the ruins of the Lusignan walls and towers which originally formed a protective curtain around the town. And Kyrenia holidays offer plenty for the keen shopper, with a vast array of outlets providing everything from the latest designer fashions to Cypriot antiques - not to mention a truly remarkable choice of restaurants. Kyrenia is an ideal base to explore Northern Cyprus, and it has some of the island's best accommodation. Yet the serene beauty of the countryside is never far away....

Kyrenia is full of architectural interest Bellapais Village, the setting for Lawrence Durrell's classic novel 'Bitter Lemons of Cyprus' is a few minutes drive away and the 13th century abbey bears witness to the fact that the village has changed little since Durrell's time. Nearby Crusader castles of Hilarion North Cyprus, Kantara and Buffavento are particularly fine. West of Kyrenia lies 'the garden of north Cyprus', with citrus orchards, verdant forests and fertile plains.

Bovec Holidays

2011-04-26T03:36:00.000-07:00

The earliest mention of Bovec is from 1174, but the history of this area stretches much further back in time – to the Roman road through Predel and to the finds from the early Iron Age. In the past for Bovec was important trade route between the port of Triest and Wienna that passed the town. Later, the Bovec area was affected by the first World War battles. Today you can follow the traces from that time on the Walks of Peace.

Today, Bovec attracts especially with a wide array of sports activities, for adrenaline junkies and those who just want to relax in the nature. The town’s upbeat rhythm is maintained by numerous sports agencies, all kinds of events, and the hospitable locals.

The valleys arround Bovec are a playground for all kinds of sports all year round.
In winter time the main attraction is the Kanin – Canin ski centre, but arround Bovec there are pistes for cross country skiing, and different sports agencies can take you on snow-shoe trips and sledding.
From spring time to autumn there are several biking, hiking and mountaineering trails to be explored, horseback trips to be taken, golf games to be played and a wide array of different white-water sports on the Soča river to choose from.
The small sports airfield just by Bovec is interesting for paragliders and gliders all year round.

Holidays at Lake Garda Italy

2011-04-26T03:22:00.000-07:00

Lake Garda is Italy's most popular and largest lake. Lake Garda sits in northern Italy and close to the city of Verona.
Holiday to Lake Garda and live the Italian way of life in the villages of Lake Garda. Capturing Italy's cosmopolitan style, simple pleasures like lingering over rich coffee, dipping into ice cream sundaes and wandering along the lakeside are the best way to spend your days, while watersports, the fantastic Gardaland theme park and trips to Verona add a little excitement.

Best of Holiday In Hong Kong

2011-04-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

First time in Hong Kong? Be sure to check off these top ten quintessential experiences: scale Victoria Peak for spectacular city views, ride the Star Ferry, and shop the street markets. [Gadling]SeatGuru helps fliers find the optimum seats on their next flight with reviews and ratings of the seat layouts from more than 720 different planes and 100 different airlines. Get coveted extra legroom without having to pay. Plus find out the favorite seat assignments of SeatGuru's founder and general manager. [WSJ]Go retro this summer with a little outdoor entertainment. Several drive-in movie theaters are still in operation across the United States. Here's where you can catch a flick this summer.

Mega-Museum Opens in China

2011-04-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

The National Museum of China opened on March 17th in Beijing after a $380 million "facelift." The nearly two-million-square-foot mega-museum containing over a million objects in 48 exhibition halls is purported to be the largest in the world. The revamped museum, located on Tiananmen Square, combines the former Museum of Chinese History and the Museum of the Chinese Revolution. Its centerpiece are two permanent exhibits: "Ancient China," a "mammoth survey" of Chinese history, and "The Road to Rejuvenation," an exhibit that covers the era of the Opium Wars (1840s) to the present.

The New York Times critiques the museum as sanitizing China's past and alluding to the Cultural Revolution and the Great Leap Forward's famine (during which millions lost their lives) in a scant three lines illustrated by a sole photo. The Times also notes that the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests are not mentioned. The museum, critics charge, dismisses the "shades of gray" in China's present and past and glosses over the conflicts that have come out of the country's multi-ethnic composition. A temporary exhibit on the European Enlightenment ("The Art of the Enlightenment"), curated by three German museums, is said to be more of an art exhibit than a political or historical presentation as Enlightenment ideals such as universal human rights are ignored.

Top Ten "Forgotten" National Parks

2011-04-07T03:10:00.000-07:00

As the days get longer and the weather improves, it's a great time to plan a trip to one the 394 sites run by the U.S. National Park Service. And during National Park Week (April 16-24), admission to every one of these parks is FREE, with special events scheduled at many locations.

While Yellowstone, Acadia, Grand Canyon, Yosemite and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks win the popularity contests, there are dozens of sites within the national park system that are worth visiting as well.
University of South Carolina Professor Emeritus Bob Janiskee writes in National Parks Traveler about ten national cultural-historic sites administered by the NPS that "don't get enough love." This spring and summer, consider visiting one of these hidden gems that Janiskee says "tell America's story." He puts these ten overlooked sites into chronological and thematic categories that trace our country's history from prehistory to the present day.

1. To learn about the Original Inhabitants of the U.S., consider Chaco Canyon National Historic Park near Albuquerque, New Mexico, site of Pueblo Bonito. It's a remote spot that provides visitors a sense of the architectural, administrative, and organizational acumen of the Pueblo people who lived here from A.D. 850-1250.

2. Go back to the days of in Early European Exploration and Settlement, at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Park, also in New Mexico. Check out the Spanish Franciscan mission churches and convents or follow the interpretive trail and go birding.

3. Review Colonial Life and the Revolutionary War at Louisiana's Cane River Creole National Historical Park and Heritage Area, site of two plantations that display frontier and French Creole influence and illustrate what life was like during the days of the "Cotton Kingdom" and slavery.

Seven more "forgotten" NPS sites after the jump.

4. Next up, reconsider Pioneer America, Western Settlement, and the Indian Wars at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site in Montana. Tour the ranch house, numerous outbuildings, and bunkhouse of this still-operating cattle ranch.

5. As the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War kicks off this spring, Civil War sites are likely to see a rush of visitors. Try Camp Sumter, in Andersonville, Georgia, site of the Confederate-run prisoner of war camp in which 45,000 Union soldiers were imprisoned, often in dire conditions, during the war.

6. To Commemorate Famous Americans, Janiskee recommends the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Site in Vermont, former home of several members of America's early conservation movement. Visit the model farm and forest.

7. Get your geek on at parks that celebrate the U.S.Transportation System, Industrial Development, and Technological Progress, such as the Thomas Edison National Historic Park in New Jersey, Edison's "invention factory," where work on what turned out to be 1,093 patents (including electric light and the phonograph) took place.

8. To mark 20th-Century Wars, try the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site in Alabama, where the base at which 992 African American fighter pilots trained for WWII combat in North Africa and Italy has been rebuilt to honor their valor.

9. To better appreciate our nation's Cultural Diversity and Religious Freedom, stop by the Roger Williams National Memorial in Rhode Island. Williams found refuge in Providence after being banished from Massachusetts in 1636 because of his religious beliefs. This urban park is small but offers a visitors center, exhibits, and introductory film.

10. And, last but not least, learn about the Struggle for Equality and Justice at the Manzanar National Historic Site in eastern California, where 10,000 Japanese Americans were imprisoned during World War II. A 3.2-mile driving tour traces the site's history from when it was home to Paiute Indians, a ranching and farming community, and the site of ten internment camps.

For more ideas, look on the NPS "Find A Park" map.

To celebrate National Park Week, Traveler is putting together a gallery of our favorite park photos submitted by readers. If you'd like to participate, send your best park shots, tagged #parkwk, to My Shot by May 1.

Holiday And Travel Tips: Mumbai

2011-04-06T23:06:00.001-07:00

Former Traveler research apprentice Stephanie Robichaux is in Mumbai, India, on a research fellowship, looking into how the Internet is used to arrange marriages. We caught up with her to see how her project is going, learn about her favorite spots and eats in India, get some India travel tips, and discover how working at a travel magazine has affected her as a traveler.

What are you doing in India? And how long have you been there?
I have been in India for about six months as a research fellow through the George Washington University. I came here to study the role of the Internet in arranging marriages, particularly the process of using an online marriage site to find a spouse.

How has your experience been so far? Highs/lows?
I feel like the last six months has been a series of highs and lows. My first two months here were really tough. Adjusting to a city like Mumbai is quite difficult and being a control freak, I really struggled. There is a huge expat community in Mumbai, though, and I have met so many wonderful people who helped me through the transition.
There have definitely been some highs and lows regarding the research. Although millions and millions of Indians use these marriage sites, many of them don't like to admit it, so it has been very difficult finding people willing to share their experiences with me. Those who have, though, have been very open and provided me a lot of insight into attitudes surrounding marriage in India.

More from Stephanie about Mumbai after the jump.

What are some of your favorite spots in India?
One of the first weekend getaways from Mumbai I took was to Nasik, India's wine country. The vineyards are located in the hills overlooking a lake, and it's so peaceful and beautiful. There is no smog and no honking rickshaws out there. Just a four-hour train ride away from Mumbai and I felt like I was in a different country altogether.

Also, I have to say, the Taj Mahal is just breathtaking. No photo will ever do it justice. It is one of the only places that has exceeded my expectations on this trip.

Finally, I think Udaipur is lovely; I have been there twice as well. The main tourist bazaar area is a bit nuts. The streets are narrow and there are rickshaws and cows competing for space and hawkers are trying to lure you into their shops, but all you have to do is plop yourself on one of the hotels' rooftop restaurants, and you've escaped. I could just sit on a rooftop in Udaipur and take in the view for hours, especially at sunset. And, I have to say, if you like silver jewelry, it's the place to shop!

How has your one-year stint a researcher at Traveler prepared you (or, maybe, done you a disservice) now that you're actually out there in the world, traveling?
Love this question. That year as a researcher really has been a blessing. I mean, I think I've learned to be more resourceful and to not trust information from the first person I ask. I know it's just better to pick up the phone and call a place to ask for information than to spend an hour sifting through several websites. I also remember one of our Golden Rules of not using travel guidebooks to verify information. As I mention in several of my blog posts, I have been misled by guidebooks on this trip, and I really should not have been so surprised!

Because you have the unique perspective having worked at a travel magazine and having traveled frequently now and during your college years, what travel tips do you have for regular folks who don't breathe travel 24/7 but want to plan a trip?
Read TripAdvisor.com for hotel reviews. Do not trust guidebook recommendations, especially if you're traveling in developing countries. It's important to keep in mind that guidebook authors don't stay in all of the places they recommend; better to trust reviews from people who have. Also, learn a few key phrases in the local language. Before coming to India, everyone told me, "Oh, everyone speaks English. It won't be a big deal." Um, not-so-true. Most rickshaw drivers know very limited English. After being taken to the wrong places several times, I learned enough Hindi to be able to give directions and to say, "I don't want that" and "leave me alone," when it comes to dealing with hawkers. Finally, respect the culture. Maybe this is sort of a given, but I still see foreign women walking around India in shorts and spaghetti-strap shirts. Yes, it's hot here, but showing legs and shoulders in India is not appropriate. I think respecting simple things like dress code and etiquette goes a long way in establishing a good rapport with locals.

How has your view of travel changed due to your time in India?
I remember when I first visited India during Semester at Sea in 2007, I just fell in love with it. I was obsessed with the food, the colors, the hustle and bustle, everything that I encountered in the week I was here. And, I told myself, "I will go back and live there one day." And, now I'm doing just that and I've realized that traveling in a foreign country and living in a foreign country are two different ballgames. I think travel allows you to absorb the things about a place that you love and not dwell on the things that you don't, because you know you won't be there for a long time. Traveling does not prepare you to live in a foreign country. I do think that traveling, especially to developing countries and places different from your home country, is so important. You can't learn about the world through books alone, and you won't learn about yourself until you step out of your comfort zone.

One last question. Your blog, Eat Sweat Diarrhea, subtitled "Mumbai: From the Delicious to the Downright Dirty" brings up food. What've been some of the best dishes you've tried while in India?
We may need a separate post for this one. You are asking someone who lives to eat. Aloo tikki is my favorite
street food. It's a fried potato patty with sweet and spicy chutneys thrown on top along with some chopped onions and radishes. I have yet to find it in Mumbai, but in North India, not a problem. Also, the sweet potatoes here...I could write a whole blog post about them. They are white on the inside and are a bit sweeter than the ones in the U.S. You will find street vendors roasting them over hot coals. Then they chop up the potato, sprinkle some lime juice and dry masala powder, and it's just...to die for.? Also, dal makhani. My favorite Indian dish. Generally, the dish consists of black lentils and kidney beans simmered for hours in butter (or cream) and spices. I mean, really, it's simmered in butter, how can you go wrong? But, on my last trip to Udaipur, my friend and I ate at Panorama Guesthouse, and their dal makhani was made with white lentils/beans. I don't know what else was in there, but it was, hands down, the BEST dal makhani I have had in India. I had to refrain from licking the pot.

Want more India? Check out one of National Geographic's many India photo galleries: Passages Through India, Faces of India, and Indian Weddings. Also, don't forget to visit Stephanie's blog, Eat, Sweat Diarrhea.

Photos: Stephanie at Lake Palace and Stephanie, post-Holi. Courtesy of Stephanie Robichaux.

Holidays In Fonta Santa All-Inclusive

2011-03-10T02:24:00.000-08:00

All-Inclusive Fonta Santa Holidays - Relax on the Algarve for one fixed price For a well-earned break in the Algarve's popular Golden Triangle, all-inclusive Fonta Santa holidays can offer a perfect mix of comfort and convenience, with all the basics for a week or two in the sun covered for just one price. A great alternative to a self-catering villa or apartment in Portugal, all-inclusive holidays to Fonta Santa allow for complete relaxation, close to many amenities and attractions, with the luxury of doing as much, or as little, as guests like.All-Inclusive Holidays in Fonta Santa - Do as much, or as little, as you chooseWith its rural setting and peaceful ambience, the resort is a good choice for those looking to get away from it all, with all-inclusive holidays to Fonta Santa providing the essentials for guests in one convenient package. All-inclusive Fonta Santa sun holidays focus on the local sandy beaches, with ample chance to soak up the sunshine and indulge in active water sports. Hotels offering all-inclusive Fonta Santa holidays can provide active guests with a number of amenities and services, with no pressure to do anything at all but enjoy a relaxed stay in a well-equipped base. Thanks to all meals and drinks being covered on all-inclusive Fonta Santa holidays, guests can enjoy excellent value for money, with no restaurant and bar bills to consider each day. Energetic guests on all-inclusive activity holidays to Fonta Santa will find a host of things to do, with facilities from windsurfing, water skiing and sailing to golf, bowling, cycling and horse riding in the area (always check what is covered on all-inclusive holidays to Fonta Santa, as some activities are not included on the plan and do cost extra). All-Inclusive Fonta Santa Holidays - All meals and drinks covered All-inclusive Fonta Santa relaxing holidays allow for peaceful days by the pool, as well as the chance to get out and explore the area, with guests knowing that they can return to the relative comfort of their hotel each day and take advantage of the dining plan and full programme of entertainment, for no additional costs. Close to Vilamoura, Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Logo, all-inclusive cheap holidays to Fonta Santa can feature days out visiting this exclusive area and experiencing its charm, from rounds of golf in the sunshine, to boat trips along the coast, and leisurely people-watching in the vibrant local marina.

Famagusta Things To Do

2011-03-09T21:40:00.000-08:00

Famagusta is a haven for history-lovers, boasting an abundance of ancient sites, churches, cathedrals and palaces throughout its town centre. Attractions in this open-air museum include Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, Othello Castle, St Barnabas Monastery, the Sea Gate and the Kertikli Baths.Salamis remains one of the world's most important archaeological sites, with the famous Roman ruins, formerly the island's capital, covering a huge area just outside Famagusta. There's plenty to see at the well-preserved site, from the ancient amphitheatre still used as a music venue, to the forum and Roman baths. If you are looking for a beach holiday the area also has a lovely sandy beach which runs along the entire length of the site - with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling and scuba-diving. The beaches in the Famagusta area are mostly clean and unspoilt, and offer a tranquil base for sunbathing. Those with convenient tourist facilities include Bediz and Glapsides, whilst Nangomi, Bafra and Silver Beach offer real peace and quiet on golden sandy shores. Nature-lovers will appreciate the stunning Karpas Peninsula - a wild and remote region boasting lush pine and cypress forests, home to a wide range of endemic species of flora and fauna. There's also beautiful unspoilt beaches to discover, with deserted stretches all along the coastline, as well as traditional fishing villages dotted throughout the region, known as the island's nature reserve. If you are interested in an activity holiday the water sports available include snorkelling and scuba-diving, with tennis and swimming on offer at local hotels and apartments. Walking and hiking in the surrounding area is popular, as is mountain biking and horse riding. With the town home to a great selection of shops and bazaars, there's plenty of opportunity for browsing local handicrafts, and buying authentic gifts and souvenirs. Choose from clothing, sunglasses and handbags, or traditional lacework, copper, silvery, pottery, leather, wine and brandy. Other attractions include the now deserted Varosia, a former beach resort that has remained behind barbed wire since the Turkish invasion in 1974, and the ancient ruins at Enkomi. Travel along the coast to the pretty harbour town of Kyrenia, and head inland to visit the quaint hillside village of Bellapais and its majestic ruined abbey. Whilst on a Famagusta holiday, visitors can venture to Southern Cyprus and experience the major tourist resorts of Larnaca and Ayia Napa, for a complete change of pace.

Benimaurell All-inclusive

2011-03-09T17:50:00.000-08:00

Benimaurell all-inclusive holidays – An authentic Spanish retreatLocated a short distance inland on the Costa Blanca, Benimaurell provides everything needed for the quintessential Spanish all inclusive holiday in the sun. The resort boasts something for everyone, from the wide, sandy beaches of Javea on the coast to the region’s famed golf courses and nature walks. Benimaurell itself is located nestled in the beautiful Spanish countryside, complemented by verdant hills and authentic whitewashed village houses, all contributing to stunning views over the region.All-inclusive holidays to Benimaurell – Kick back and relax in the sunA summer holiday in Benimaurell is well suited to anyone who enjoys a more relaxed way of life. Your days can be spent exploring the wonderful natural beauty of the area from the myriad nature trails that dot the region, or relaxing on the beaches for which the Costa Blanca is famed. More adventurous holidaymakers looking for an activity holiday may wish to indulge in some of the excellent watersports that are provided, including wind-surfing and scuba diving, while those of a more executive persuasion can spend the time honing their golf shots on one of the many top-quality courses in the area. When the sun goes down, visitors can repair to the local restaurants and bars to enjoy a quiet evening of authentic, locally produced food and wine, including tapas, tortillas, paellas, and a Garbanzo stew traditional to the mountainous regions.Benimaurell All-inclusive Holidays– Something for everyoneBenimaurell is ideally located to encourage exploration of the Costa Blanca region, and offers an excellent base from which to expand your holiday in the sun. Car hire is recommended to really get the most from your holiday, enabling you to explore the fabled beaches of the Costa Blanca, the many all inclusive resorts and towns of the area, and attractions such as the Vergel Safari Park and the Terra Mitica theme park. Those seeking further excitement can travel to the nearby resorts of Denia and Javea and explore the nightlife of the region in one of the many bars and clubs that populate the towns.

Holiday In Northern Cyprus

2011-03-09T14:45:00.000-08:00

Northern Cyprus holidays – Top-value Cyprus holidaysHolidays in Northern Cyprus have become an established favourite with UK holidaymakers looking for relaxing holidays with plenty of authentic Mediterranean character. Resorts offer the same low prices and family-friendly welcome you can expect from holidays in Southern Cyprus but the region remains far quieter than cheap holiday favourites like Ayia Napa and Protaras. Expect to find unspoilt sandy beaches, a good choice of hotels and romantic tavernas serving delicious Turkish-inspired cuisine. Northern Cyprus holidays offer plenty of interest beyond beach holiday relaxation. Excursions head for fascinating medieval castles, sleepy traditional villages and the amazing ancient site of Salamis. Holidays in Northern Cyprus are also popular with walkers and nature lovers, drawn by amazingly unspoilt regions like the Karpaz Peninsula. Wherever you holiday in Northern Cyprus you will never be far from gorgeous sandy beaches and a warm Cypriot welcome. You can book holidays in Northern Cyprus online or by phone with directline-holidaysHolidays in North Cyprus – Charming resortsEach year sees a growing choice of holidays in Northern Cyprus. You will find the best choice of cheap holidays in North Cyprus resorts like Kyrenia. This charming coast town boasts a magnificent Crusader castle, a romantic Venetian harbour and a relaxing family holiday atmosphere. You will also find cheap holiday deals on Northern Cyprus beaches near Famagusta. For a holiday with authentic street life and cultural interest head for the medieval old town of Famagusta. For a romantic holiday atmosphere consider the charming hill village of Bellapais. Northern Cyprus holiday prices compare very favourably with cheap holidays in Greece and Turkey. And an exceptionally long season means cheap beach holidays are available throughout the year.Northern Cyprus holidays – Beach holiday bargainsMost North Cyprus beach holidays feature the great-value family hotels found throughout Cyprus. Expect to find a good outdoor pool, relaxing sun terraces and a pleasant hotel restaurant. The cheapest holidays in Northern Cyprus are among the cheapest holidays in the Mediterranean. You will also find a growing choice of North Cyprus holidays featuring self-catering holiday villas and luxury holiday resorts. For amazingly cheap North Cyprus holiday deals consider spring and autumn, when beaches are incredibly quiet, the mountains are colourful and temperatures are ideal for relaxed walking holiday and sightseeing. Our online holiday search will keep you up to date with cheap Cyprus holiday deals and the latest Northern Cyprus last-minute holiday discounts.

Southern Cyprus Weather

2011-03-09T10:20:00.000-08:00

Southern Cyprus weather –Idyllic Mediterranean sunshineThe weather in Southern Cyprus is frequently cited as the best weather in the Mediterranean. South Cyprus sunshine hours can easily match resorts in Turkey and Greece. You can enjoy relaxing holidays from March and still find people sunbathing as late as November! Most UK visitors arrive in peak summer, when average temperatures in Southern Cyprus are in the mid 30’s. Popular Cyprus holiday resorts like Protaras and Paphos enjoy up to 12 hours of sunshine a day! The weather forecast for Southern Cyprus hardly changes from June to September. You are sure to wake to clear blue skies and hot Mediterranean sunshine. Wonderfully warm evenings are made for pavement cafes and romantic open-air dining. Watersports fans will find idyllic sea temperatures well into autumn.Weather in Southern Cyprus – Gorgeous spring conditionsWhen to go to Southern Cyprus depends on your holiday style. Most UK visitors are blissfully happy with hot summer sunshine but if you wish to do some walking or go sightseeing in Nicosia or Larnaca you may prefer spring and autumn, when temperatures are similar to a good summer day in the UK. For many Cyprus holiday veterans the best time to go to Southern Cyprus is spring. This is especially true if you hope to combine beach relaxation with walking holidays or golf holidays. South Cyprus temperatures have already hit the 20’s by March. The Troodos Mountains are green, fruit orchards are in blossom and hills and vineyards are carpeted with wild flowers. The weather in Southern Cyprus in April and May offers superb conditions for walking holidays. Troodos Mountains resorts like Omodhos and Kakopetria are an absolute joy at this time of year. Easter holidays are reliably sunny and warm.Southern Cyprus weather – Warm autumn & mild wintersSouth Cyprus weather in October and November also sees ideal temperatures for beaches, excursions and sightseeing. Our Southern Cyprus weather statistics show average temperatures in the mid 20’s in October and November. Take something warm for the evening in autumn. Early and late season is also the time to find very cheap holidays in Southern Cyprus hotels of every category. Cyprus winter holiday visitors will find changeable weather. Daytime winter temperatures can reach 15º on the coast. Most South Cyprus rainfall occurs in winter but even December and January see an average 4 or 5 hours of sunshine a day. You can snow on Mount Olympus in winter.

Holidays In Bellapais

2011-03-09T05:42:00.000-08:00

Bellapais holidays – Romantic Cyprus hill villageBellapais holidays are a long-standing favourite with British holidaymakers looking for a taste of traditional Cypriot village life. Bellapais has been attracting visitors since the publication of Lawrence Durrell’s Bitter Lemons in the 1950’s. The village is also famous for its splendidly romantic half-ruined 12th century abbey, one of the most important Gothic buildings in the eastern Mediterranean. Holidays in Bellapais offers the romance and tranquillity of a traditional hill village while remaining close to top Cyprus holiday beaches. Bellapais enjoys a picturesque hill setting above the popular North Cyprus holiday resort of Kyrenia. A picturesque ensemble of narrow lanes extends from a charming square with an enjoyable collection of cafes, bars and restaurants. There are superb views across a superb stretch of North Cyprus coastline. Bellapais holiday nightlife is a wonderfully laid-back affair based aroundthe village square. You could also sample romantic holiday dining in Kyrenia. You can search and book Bellapais holidays online or by phone with directline-holidays.Holidays in Bellapais – Idyllic North Cyprus locationFew holiday destinations in Northern Cyprus can match Bellapais when it comes to location. Most visitors will combine village romance with trips down to Kyrenia, where you will find a splendid castle, a gorgeous Venetian harbour and a great choice of romantic waterfront restaurants and traditional cafes. The Kyrenia coast offers some of the best beach holidays in Northern Cyprus. Bellapais holiday hotels are well placed for exploring a beautiful region. All the best quality holidays in Bellapais will offer a choice of excursions and tours. Rewarding destinations include the castle of St Hilarion and the beautiful villages of Ozankoy and Catalkoy. Look out for amazingly cheap holidays in Bellapais in spring and autumn, when the surrounding countryside is at its colourful best and Kyrenia beaches are delightfully quiet.Bellapais holidays – Village & country locationsYou will find a mix of luxury holidays and cheap holidays in Bellapais village centre and an attractive choice of country hotels and self-catering holiday villas in the surrounding region. The best Bellapais hotels make for very romantic holidays in Northern Cyprus. For cheap holidays in Bellapais try local self-catering holiday apartments. Note that cheap Bellapais holiday accommodation is at a premium in May, when Bellapais Abbey hosts the annual classical music festival. Search for cheap Ballapais holiday deals and the latest Bellapais last-minute holiday discounts with directline-holidays.

Holidays In Islantilla All-Inclusive

2011-03-09T01:10:00.000-08:00

All-Inclusive Islantilla Holidays - Luxury on the Costa de la LuzIdeal for a relaxing break on the Costa de la Luz, all-inclusive Islantilla holidays focus on comfort, convenience and choice - with guests able to do as much, or as little, as they choose, for just one fixed price. It's a great alternative to self-catering holidays and villa holidays in the Algarve, with all-inclusive holidays to Islantilla allowing for a luxurious base where both leisurely sunbathing can be enjoyed, as well as various energetic sports and recreation - all for no additional cost.All-Inclusive Holidays in Islantilla - All meals and drinks coveredOffering a comfortable base on this stunning stretch of coastline, all-inclusive Islantilla sun holidays feature plenty of Mediterranean sunshine, whether it be on the wonderful sandy beaches or by the pool, with no pressure to do anything at all. This purpose-built resort boasts excellent facilities for outdoor activities, with all-inclusive Islantilla activity holidays ideal for those looking to play plenty of tennis and golf, as well as indulge in energetic water sports. All the basics are covered on all-inclusive cheap holidays to Islantilla, such as all meals, drinks and snacks, and the numerous leisure facilities available ensure excellent value for money, should guests choose to take advantage of them (always check what is included in the package, as some activities incur local charges). The dining plan means guests need not even leave the hotel, with all-inclusive Islantilla holidays featuring a regular routine for guests each day, with extensive buffets and themed nights offering plenty of choice, with no mounting holiday spending costs, or hefty restaurant and bar bills to pay. All-Inclusive Islantilla Holidays - Relax in the hotel or explore the sightsWith its excellent leisure facilities, all-inclusive Islantilla holidays offer plenty to keep all guests busy, from tennis, golf, windsurfing and sailing, to mountain biking, horse riding and hiking. The Andalusian countryside around the resort is ideal for nature-lovers, and there are tracks and marked paths to follow, which lead through verdant hillsides and forests, and take in delightful little villages and dramatic scenery. All-inclusive Islantilla holidays allow for trips out exploring the region, and offer guests a comfortable base at the end of the day, where they can return and fully make use of all the available facilities.

Bellapais Things To Do

2011-03-08T22:09:00.000-08:00

This quaint village in the hillside offers a scenic and captivating base for a holiday in Northern Cyprus, with visitors able to immerse themselves in traditional local charm and enjoy a sleepy pace of life. Time can be spent strolling along the tiny streets, soaking up the town's history and relaxing in a taverna in the village square, as well as following in the footsteps of Lawrence Durrell, who made Bellapais famous thanks to 'Bitter Lemons', the book which chronicled his days here. One of the main attractions in the village is Bellapais Monastery, a beautiful ruined abbey which has dominated Bellapais since the 12th-century, and is known as much for its Gothic grandeur as the stunning views from its walls. Tours are available, and there are regular concerts and recitals held here, with the monastery being the site of the impressive Bellapais Classical Music Festival each May.As well as visiting the abbey, no trip to Bellapais is complete without seeing the legendary 'Tree of Idleness', made famous by Durrell, with its delightful folklore stating that anyone who sits under it will become so relaxed and lethargic that they will be unable to work - a must for any stressed-out visitors to this quiet and sleepy village! The glorious mountain terrain is ideal for discovering on foot, by bike or on horseback, and the lush countryside offers a tranquil base for walks and hikes. Marked paths, once used by crusaders, still meander across the landscape and offer the chance to explore the hills, and experience the natural beauty of the Kyrenia mountain range. There's the chance for bird-watching and nature walks, with paragliding also available for the adventurous. Head to the coast and relax on one of the local beaches, from the popular Lara Beach, Escape Beach and Acapulco to more remote, wilder stretches such as Alagadi. Northern Cyprus beaches offer a quiet base with wonderful views for relaxed sunbathing, and a chance to soak up the glorious Mediterranean sunshine and enjoy the clear blue seas. Water sports available along the coast include windsurfing, water skiing and parasailing, with tourist facilities such as restaurants and bars located on the more developed areas. Head to the coast and spend a day at the charming and picturesque harbour town of Kyrenia. There's plenty to see and do, from tours of the famous castle and strolls around the historic museums, to leisurely meals in the lively marina or scenic boat rides up and down the coast.Other attractions include hiking up to St Hilarion Castle, a visit to Famagusta, or a tour of the ancient ruins at Salamis. Visitors can make a trip to the capital, Nicosia, for excellent shopping and dining in the modern centre, or cross the border into Southern Cyprus to experience the lively tourist resorts of Larnaca or Ayia Napa for a change of scene.

Places to visit in Mexico

2011-03-08T19:23:00.000-08:00

Mexico is a large country that offers an enormous number of potential vacation spots. How to decide where to go?

From the tourist’s point of view, there are three "Mexico’s" that attract attention. The most popular of these is the Yucatan peninsula, which encompasses the delightful area that has come to be known as the Riviera Maya by some and Caribbean Riviera by others. Including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and other gorgeous beach towns and islands (such as Cozumel), the Riviera Maya is known for its majestic, white-sand beaches, warm sunny weather and Mayan ruins. We provide a concise description of the Yucatan and its many attractions below, as well as links to our detailed guides for these areas.

The second most popular area of Mexico is known as the Mexican Riviera, a delightful swath of beaches spanning over 2,000 miles of the Pacific coast between Ensenada and Acapulco. The distances separating the major resort areas are great and, as a result, the leading resort towns are not likely to be explored during in a single vacation.

In some ways the concept of the Mexican Riviera is marketing-speak coined by the Mexican government and eagerly adopted by cruise lines, since the best way to sample this beautiful and enchanting region is see it during a cruise. Although there are a number of great vacation spots for cruise itineraries, we recommend only three for an extended land vacation – Cabo San Lucas, the Puerto Vallarta area and Ixtapa. We provide a concise description of these locations below, as well as links to our detailed guide for the Mexican Riviera, where we cover these locations and more in greater detail.

The “third” Mexico runs down the center of the country and includes Copper Canyon, Morelia and Mexico City.

Places to visit in California

2011-03-08T19:18:00.000-08:00

California is one of the most beautiful states in America. The temperate climate, the abundant nature, the charming cities, and the vibrant culture, all make it a great place to live in, and to visit. Because of the moderate temperatures, you can visit California any time of the year. However, I would recommend visiting California during the spring or summer seasons to experience it at its best.

California has a lot to offer. It has a rich natural diversity, ranging from the beaches of Southern California, to the snow-peaked mountains of The Sierra Nevada, to the wine country in the central valley, and the granite mountains and waterfalls in Yosemite. So, if you want to frolic in the sun and the sand, or ski on the snowy mountain slopes, or hike along nature trails, or taste some wine, you can do it all, only in California. Here are some more California State facts. Now, let's take a look at some of the best places to visit in California.

Napa Valley: This is the wine country of California. It is home to some of the best wineries in America, and producer of some the best wines in the world, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Merlot. If you love wine, or nurture an ambition to become a connoisseur of wine, this is the place for you. Learn more about the art of wine making.

Mendocino: North of the Napa Valley, along the Pacific coast, is the quaint little town of Mendocino. The weather here is chilly, and the coastline is engulfed in fog most of the time, but this only adds to the unique nature of this town. This is a perfect place for laying back. But, you can also unwind by taking a walk along the trails of The Mendocino Headlands State Park. Another place you can visit while you are here is Fort Bragg, which is located 10 miles north of Mendocino. It hosts the beautiful Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, and the popularly known Skunk Train (named thus by the locals, because the oil used in the train engines emitted a peculiar smell when it burned). You must take a ride on this historical train, which travels from Fort Bragg, to the town of Willits, through the grand Redwood Trees of California.

Lake Tahoe: The beautiful Lake Tahoe nests in the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, on the border of California and Nevada. It is one of the largest lakes in America, being 22 miles in length, 12 miles in width, and 1,645 feet deep. Owing to this, the lake never freezes, even during the extremely cold winters of the Sierra. There are many ski resorts near the lake, including Heavenly Mountain Resort, Alpine Meadows, Sugar Bowl Ski Resort, and Squaw Valley, where you can try some skiing and snowboarding. You can also indulge in some gambling in one of the casinos that line the border in Nevada. There are also a lot of water sports activities like boating and sailing, that you can enjoy during the spring and summer seasons. More on things to do in Lake Tahoe.

Yosemite National Park: Yosemite National Park is a perfect place to get away from the frenetic pace of city life. The Yosemite Valley is surrounded by imposing granite mountains, and beautiful waterfalls. The best time of the year to visit Yosemite is summer, when the snow has melted, and the amazing flora and fauna has come to life. You can just choose to kick back and relax amidst the peaceful surroundings, or participate in one of the many activities Yosemite has to offer, like hiking, rock climbing, river rafting, kayaking, biking, etc. Some of the key features of Yosemite National Park include El Capitan, Half Dome, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, Bridal Veil Falls, Vernal Falls, and Yosemite Falls. Read more about Yosemite National Park activities.

San Francisco: I love this city because it has such a different feel from all the other cities in America. There are also a lot of tourist attractions in the city – The Golden Gate Bridge, The Museum of Modern Art, The Golden Gate Park, Crissy Fields, Fisherman's Wharf, Twin Peaks, Coit Tower, the historical Cable Cars, Union Square, Lombard Street, and so on. The list is endless. The city also boasts of a rich, vibrant culture, and an ethic mix unlike anywhere in the world. San Francisco is not only a great place to visit, but also an awesome place to live owing to the high standard of living, and the wonderful climate.

Places to visit in New York

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New York is a vibrant and eclectic place. There is an incredibly diverse range of things to see and do- but there are a few attractions like no other. No visit to New York City is complete without visiting the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

Ellis Island is where it all began, and now with the New York Pass you can visit it completely free, you will also receive a free ferry ride to the Island and the Statue of Liberty.

The Empire State Building – icon of New York City since 1931, has been featured in thousands of movies and welcomes visitors from all over the world.

You can also try the New York Skyride – a virtual helicopter tour again completely free of charge and also with Fast Track entry. This will save you time & money- and your nerves too – just imagine having to wait in line for a few hours…

Not far from The Empire State Building you will find Madame Tussaud’s wax museum where your New York Pass will work the same way: Fast Track & Free Entry.

Aghios Ioannis All-inclusive

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All-Inclusive Holidays to Aghios Ioannis – A perfect place for winter sunSituated at the very heart of the island, Aghios Ioannis is an ideal location for an all-inclusive holiday to Corfu. With easy access to numerous beaches around the area, the resorts of Aghios Ioannis offer something for every palate. The village of Aghios Ioannis itself is situated among the olive groves and orange trees of central Corfu, and enjoys a relaxed and sleepy rural atmosphere. If you are looking for a family holiday and a quiet getaway from the business of modern life will be well served by the excellent local tavernas, serving a variety of freshly-made, authentic Greek food, accompanied by a plentiful supply of traditional Retsina wine or, for the more daring, a glass of Ouzo.Aghios Ioannis All-inclusive Holidays – A change of paceThe area of Aghios Ioannis has retained its traditional, rustic charm thanks to a conservative attitude towards development, which has kept the locally-owned tavernas and all inclusive hotels at the forefront of the tourist industry. An all-inclusive holiday to Aghios Ioannis will offer a markedly different experience to most package holidays, allowing the holidaymaker to truly experience the slow, relaxed pace of life that is unique to this region.All-inclusive Holidays in Aghios Ioannis – An adventurer’s dream destinationThe resorts of the region give anyone looking for an all-inclusive holiday to Aghios Ioannis an excellent base from which to explore the region’s many beaches, villages and attractions. A multitude of beaches and resorts lie within an easy drive, enabling the traveller to pick and choose the exact holiday that they want. The main town on Corfu, Kerkyra, is only a few minute’s scenic drive through the island’s beautiful landscape, and other routes reveal hidden beaches, sunny walking trails and sleepy villages to discover. For those of a less adventurous ilk, the time can be passed snoozing on one of the many sweeping, sandy beaches, taking a dip in the crystalline ocean, or simply chilling out at the hotel bar with a glass of wine and a good book.

Kyrenia Things to do

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Kyrenia is perfect for a beach holiday, from the family-friendly Altinkaya and Acapulco to the wilder Alagadi, breeding ground of the Caretta Caretta turtles, the coastline around Kyrenia offers plenty of beaches on which to soak up the wonderful Mediterranean sunshine, with many providing an idyllic base for the day. The more developed beaches offer convenient tourist facilities, with unspoilt stretches providing seclusion and privacy.The heart of this historic coastal town is the Venetian harbour, home to both luxury yachts and traditional fishing boats, which offers a charming base where visitors can watch the world go by, thanks to the selection of bars, restaurants and shops providing plenty of attractions, and great views out across the water. Boat rides depart from the harbour, and embark on scenic journeys along the coastline, with snorkelling trips popular, as well as visits to secluded coves and bays for swimming and picnic lunches. The well-preserved 7th-century Kyrenia Castle dominates the picturesque harbour, and boasts Venetian and Byzantine influences. There's plenty to see whilst touring this historic structure, from dungeons, living quarters and chapels to a museum housing the world's oldest shipwreck, as well as stunning views to take in from the ramparts.Hotels in the resort offer swimming pools, tennis courts and spa centres. Water sports available on the local beaches include jet-skiing, windsurfing, water skiing and parasaililng, with walking, hiking, mountain biking and horse riding possible in and around the town, as well as up in the scenic interior. Quad biking, paintballing and paragliding are also offered, with golf available nearby. The inviting mountains offer a host of wonderful drives and walks, and the chance to discover the natural beauty of the countryside, with its local flora and fauna, by following one of the many marked paths that criss-cross the landscape. There's a host of hidden villages and sleepy hamlets to see, as well as churches, monasteries, and ancient ruins dotted throughout the hills. Don't miss a trip inland to the stunning Bellapais, a quaint hillside village made famous by Lawrence Durrell, with authentic character and timeless charm. As well as strolling around the captivating town centre, visit the stunning Bellapais Monastery and all it's Gothic glory, before taking a well-earned seat beneath the delightfully named 'Tree of Idleness'. Visitors can hike up to the St Hilarion Castle whilst on a holiday to Kyrenia, take a trip to the historic Famagusta, the old port of Gazimagosa, or a tour of the ancient Roman site at Salamis. The capital, Nicosia, offers great shopping and dining in its eclectic city centre, and the chance to cross the border into Southern Cyprus and see the popular tourist spots of Larnaca, Limassol and Ayia Napa.

Holidays In Spain All inclusive

2011-03-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

All-Inclusive Holidays in Spain – A popular choice for UK holidaymakersSince the 1970’s, Spain has been a popular destination for Brits holidaying abroad. Huge resorts catering for large numbers of Europeans, including a substantial British contingent, have sprung up along the stunning Spanish coast. Destinations such as Benidorm, Torremolinos, and Alicante accommodate thousands of visitors a year, keen to take advantage of the year-round guaranteed sunshine and warm temperatures that make Spain an excellent choice for beach holidays. There are some amazing cheap holiday package deals to be had to Spain, including a range of fantastic all-inclusive holidays.All-Inclusive Holidays in Spain – Meals and drinks included Those looking for the ultimate stress-free break away would do well to book an all-inclusive holiday in Spain. Booking all-inclusive means meals and drinks will be included in the price of the holiday, so you won’t have to worry about buying or preparing meals for the duration of your trip. Spanish all-inclusive holidays are generally provided by large hotel complexes with one or more swimming pools, poolside bars, buffet-style restaurants, and a good range of entertainment in the evenings. Often all-inclusive hotels will have a children’s club to keep the kids occupied during the day; perfect for those on family holidays. All-inclusive holidays in Spain are some of the most abundant packaged holidays available, giving you a huge choice of hotels and locations to stay in.All-Inclusive Holidays in Spain – From the coast to the countrysideThere is a huge variety of holiday experiences on offer when you book an all-inclusive holiday to Spain. Clubbing holidays on the islands of Majorca, Ibiza and Tenerife are popular with the younger crowd, more sedate breaks in Andalusia are great for those looking to experience authentic Spanish culture, sun holidays on the golden beaches of the Costa del Sol are ideal for beach holidays, and the vibrant cities of Barcelona and Madrid offer a great opportunity for an urban break in Spain. Wherever you choose to stay in this exciting Mediterranean country, directline-holidays can offer a superb range of all-inclusive holidays for you to choose from.

Holidays In Famagusta

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Famagusta holidays – Fascinating North Cyprus destinationHolidays in Famagusta combine Cyprus beach holiday relaxation with the street life and cultural heritage of an ancient Mediterranean city. This enjoyable centre for Northern Cyprus holidays offers an intriguing insight into the history and culture of Cyprus. The walled medieval old town is an atmospheric ensemble of ancient streets with considerable historical interest. Highlights include Othello’s' Tower, St Nicholas Cathedral, the Royal Palace, the Twin Churches and the two original gates of the city walls. You will also find a fascinating bazaar and a fine collection of old-fashioned shops. Good buys include silverware, pottery, jewellery and lace. Famagusta Old Town is also home to atmospheric squares with traditional cafes and family-run tavernas serving Turkish and Cypriot cuisine. The modern city is a thriving commercial centre and home to a major university. Famagusta holiday nightlife features an enjoyable mix of Cypriot bars and tavernas alongside more tourist-orientated entertainment on the bay. You can search and book Famagusta holidays online or by phone with directline-holidays.Holidays in Famagusta – Beach & Old Town locationsYou will find good quality holidays in Famagusta Old Town and plenty of cheap holidays on Famagusta Bay. Well-equipped beach hotels on the bay are a reliable source of cheap family holidays in Northern Cyprus. Couples may prefer romantic holidays within the city walls. Well-priced budget holidays can be found in the Famagusta holiday area throughout the long beach holiday season. The best Famagusta luxury holidays feature well-equipped resort hotels on the coast and charming country hotels and villas in the surrounding countryside. Recent years have also seen growing interest in Famagusta all-inclusive holiday packages. Our online search can find the best Famagusta holiday offers and the latest Famagusta last-minute holiday discounts.Famagusta holidays – Unspoilt North Cyprus beachesFamagusta holiday hotels are well placed for exploring unspoilt family holiday beaches on the Karpas Peninsula, which extends to the northernmost tip of the island. Famagusta holidays could also take in the idyllic village of Bellapais and the charming harbour resort of Kyrelia. All the best quality Famagusta holidays will offer excursions to Nicosia and the spectacular ruins of the ancient city of Salamis. Famagusta is just 15 km from lively Southern Cyprus holiday resorts like Ayia Napa and Nissi Bay. Hot sunny summers and mild winters mean Famagusta cheap holidays are available all year round.

Holidays In Kyrenia

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Kyrenia holidays – Romantic Cyprus harbour townHolidays in Kyrenia always feature among our most popular holidays in Northern Cyprus. This charming coast town offers unspoilt beaches, an elegant Venetian harbour, a splendid Crusader castle, a charming town centre and a terrific location close to many of the most interesting attractions in Northern Cyprus. The dramatic Five Finger mountain range creates a splendidly scenic backdrop to a town with considerable Mediterranean charm and character. Holidays in Kyrenia offer a quieter and less commercialized atmosphere than the busy resorts of Southern Cyprus. An enjoyably laid-back nightlife scene focuses on romantic waterfront tavernas in the harbour area and a nice collection of bars and restaurants in the narrow lanes of the town centre. You will find plenty of Turkish food alongside traditional Cypriot favourites. You can search and book Kyrenia holidays online or by phone with directline-holidays.Holidays in Kyrenia – Top North Cyprus beachesKyrenia holidays are superbly placed for exploring an especially scenic stretch of North Cyprus coastline dotted with quiet sandy beaches and picturesque rocky coves. Kyrenia holiday excursions typically head for ancient sites, mountain monasteries, dramatic castles and the Five Finger Mountains. All Kyrenia holidays should include a trip to historic Famagusta. A wonderfully sunny climate means Kyrenia holidays are available for an exceptionally long beach holiday season. Summer holiday prices offer excellent value for money while spring and late summer see remarkably cheap holidays in Kyrenia hotels in every price range. The best Kyrenia hotels make a very comfortable base for enjoying one of the most attractive and varied holiday resorts in Northern Cyprus. Also look out for romantic holidays in Bellapais, the beautiful village in the hills above the town.Kyrenia holidays – Low-cost & luxury optionsUnspoilt sandy beaches, budget holiday prices and guaranteed sunshine make Kyrenia a firm favourite with parents looking for relaxing family holidays in Northern Cyprus. You will find reliably cheap holidays in family hotels on the Kyrenia coast. Look out for well-priced budget holidays near Kyrenia beaches like Alagadi Turtle and Sunset Beach. Cheap holiday apartments are also found throughout the Kyrenia holiday area. Moving upmarket you will find surprisingly cheap holidays in Kyrenia luxury hotels. Recent years have also seen increasing demand for all-inclusive holidays in the Kyrenia region. Kyrenia last-minute holiday bargains and discount Kyrenia hotel deals are available all year round with directline-holidays.

Air Jaws - Afton Grove

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Afton Grove Country Retreat

Afton Grove Country Retreat, a tranquil Cape Town guest house situated in rustic Noordhoek, offers you a warm friendly welcome and quality accommodation with choice of bed & breakfast or self-catering accommodation in Noordhoek.

10 “Cape Style” garden cottages and a honeymoon suite surround a peaceful two-acre lawned garden, with restful calm and bird song beckoning you to breakfast. Mature shady trees and a swimming pool invite relaxation. You will be tempted to extend you stay – over and over again.

The Cape Style garden cottage units all contain an en-suite bathroom with a choice of single or double beds. Each individually decorated cottage has personal touches with attention to detail including an honesty bar and private patio reflective of the country charm. The tranquility and privacy of your own garden cottage invites respite from any routine. Our spacious honeymoon suite which exudes elegance and comfort is always a popular choice for our visitors. There is secure parking available behind a remote controlled gate.

Seal Island False Bay offers the unique opportunity to witness natural predation of the great white sharks on Cape Fur Seals. What makes False Bay so special is that this behavior can be seen more frequently here than any other shark spot in the world.
Our AIRJAWS great white shark trips specifically focus on breaching and natural predation plus we offer shark cage diving on the trip.
We would consider our high season to be from mid-April to end of August and the best months for the predation and breaching activity is during June, July and August. September is in between high and intermediate season with a 70% success rate. March is still early in the season and we have a 60-70% success rate. During March our trips mainly focus on the cage diving and surface viewing as it is still too early in the season for the breaching.

Duration: Approx 5.5 hours. The trip departs from Simonstown at 7am sharp and returns at 12h30.

Simon's Town Pier in Simon's Town is just 40 minutes from Cape Town and the base from where we depart.
A 20 minute trip from will take you to Seal Island False Bay, famous for "AIRJAWS", a term used for their highly athletic breaching and hunting behavior.
Great white sharks often attack their prey with such force and explosive energy that it propels them right out of the water. To witness a breaching Great White Shark is a spectacular sight, and will definitely leave you with a lasting impression.

Zambia: The Legendary Land

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Zambia has some of the most spectacular views of the magnificent Victoria Falls and a choice of fine lodges along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. This friendly country is the land of the African walking safari, with some awesome hiking trails. Breathtaking lakes and wetlands, an abundant wildlife and raw wilderness areas complete the picture.

Explore the many national parks and enjoy Zambia’s diverse concentration of wildlife. For bird lovers, there are over 740 species to sight. For off-the-beaten-track adventures and adrenalin thrills, choose from river rafting, kayaking, canoe trails, bungy jumping, microlighting, scuba diving, 4x4 routes, horseback and elephant trails and some of the best fishing spots in Africa!

Visit the fascinating Shiwa Ngandu colonial manor, Chimfunshi Chimpanzee Santuary, the Livingstone Memorial and several museums and other places of historic and cultural interest. Zambia has a few more of Africa’s best-kept secrets: go and see for yourself.

Leopard Mountain Lodge Winter Warmer

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Let us warm you up this winter with an amazing offer at Leopard Mountain Game Lodge.

Stay at leopard Mountain during the months of June & July and you pay half price!!! Cuddle up next to our Bonfire in the boma while reminiscing the days' wildlife encounters and tasting some true South African Cuisine.

Pay only R 1 125.00 per person sharing per night. This includes accommodation in a private luxury chalet, a four course gourmet dinner, a Full English breakfast, a healthy lunch, High tea and three guided game activities daily.

Leopard Mountain Game Lodge is located high up in the secluded hills of the 23 000ha of the Zululand Rhino Reserve. The lodge overlooks a vast stretch of unspoiled bushland and riverine forests, from the Umsunduze River meandering below to the most spectacular views in Zululand .

South Africa Waterberg

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Described as being South Africa’s best kept secret, the malaria-free Waterberg lies in the north-western part of the Limpopo Province. Vaalwater, forming the centre of this area is situated about 200 km north of Pretoria. The Waterberg Mountain range stretches in a long arc for some 150 km’s from Thabazimbi in the west, Nylstroom in the centre to Potgietersrus in the east, incorporating rivers, streams and swamps to add to the spectacular scenery of the mountains themselves. Situated in the heart of the Bushveld, this area offers the visitor fantastic horse safaris, is an important San Rock Art area, is home to about 75 mammal species including the Big Five, over 300 bird species and due to its elevation it is much cooler than most other game reserves in South Africa.

Welgevonden
Situated on the Waterberg Plateau and only a 3 hour drive north of Johannesburg International Airport, the Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is a 34 200 ha privately owned game reserve made up of 500 ha blocks allowing owners to build a maximum 10 bed lodge per sub-division. There are no internal fences but an electrified perimeter fence prevents large mammals from movement onto neighbouring properties. This malaria-free reserve with its mountainous terrain, dissected by deep valleys and kloofs, offers the visitor a genuine African Safari experience in the untamed Bushveld.

Victorial Falls: Mosi-Oa-Tunya

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One of the seven natural wonders of the world. The local tribes people call it Mosi-Oa-Tunya - the smoke that thunders stretching over 1,5km as it plunges over 100 metres into the Batoka Gorge below. The fine spray of the mighty Victoria falls, may be seen like a cloud across the bushveld, throwing rainbows hundreds of feet in the air. Nationwide Airlines and British Airways have regular flights from Johannesburg into Livingstone on the Zambian side of the falls. Guided walking safaris are available, which takes you through the magnificent rain forest where you are able to view the cataracts, Livingstone’s statue and a wide variety of birds and plants.

Visit the craft village, which offers the opportunity of seeing traditional African lifestyles and markets.
A visit to the crocodile farm is also worthwhile, whilst a sunset cruise viewing Africa’s big five on the Zambezi is a must. White water rafting or a trip on a jet boat is just the thing for the adrenaline junkies.

Your accommodation needs will be more than adequately met by the two hotels selected.

From Brazil to Kerala to Morocco - Hideaway Trips

2011-02-14T14:08:00.000-08:00

The honeymoon suite a Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica.

The term "rustic luxury" could have been created for Uxua: nine wooden casas set among lush gardens in the village of Trancoso. The houses have wooden floors, four-poster beds and Portuguese antiques – presented in a style you'd expect from a property created by Wilbert Das, creative director of Diesel. A cosy restaurant serves Bahian dishes.

• Casas sleeping two from £275 a night; 00 55 73 3668 2277; uxua.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Rio de Janeiro from Heathrow from £680

Known for its five-star hotels and sprawling resorts, Mauritius has few boutique hotels, so the opening of a new – and affordable – bolthole is newsworthy. La Maison d'Eté has four rooms in the main house and six bungalows with kitchenettes. Kayaks, scuba-diving equipment and mountain bikes are all available free of charge.

• Doubles from £84 B&B; 00 230 410 5039; lamaisondete.com. Air France (0845 0845 111; airfrance.co.uk) flies to Mauritius from Heathrow from £582

Petite Anse (petiteanse.com) has a real hideaway feel: 11 cottage-style rooms tucked away in the north of the island, with lush gardens surrounding the pool and lodge. Rooms have four-poster beds and a private deck or terrace, with a stunning beach close by. The restaurant is open all day, with a more formal feel in the evening.

• A week's B&B including flights and transfers costs from £775 through Just Grenada; 01373 814214; justgrenada.co.uk

The 12 suites at Aditya are named after Hindu deities, and there is something particularly tranquil about these cool rooms, furnished with teak beds and chaises. Balconies overlook the sea, with beaches and the streets of Galle a short walk away.

• Doubles from $208 room only; 00 94 91 226 7708; aditya-resort.com. Emirates (0844 800 2777; emirates.com/uk) flies to Colombo (via Dubai) from six UK airports from £643

Boutique hotels rarely get a look-in among the towering behemoths of Dubai. Fusion, then, is a real find – a 15-room hotel in Jumeirah housed in classic Arabian villas with gardens. Rooms have warm Arabic touches – lamps, rich drapes and ceramics. Lunch and supper can be taken by the pool.

• Doubles from £70 B&B; 00 971 50 478 7539; fusionhotels.com. Emirates (0844 800 2777; emirates.com/uk) flies to Dubai from six UK airports from £374

One of the most remote villages on the island, Tejeda makes a perfect base for a walking holiday in the Unesco Biosphere Reserve, laced with ancient paved pathways called caminos reales. The hotel (hotelfondadelatea.com) is a converted inn with 10 bedrooms and views across the volcanic Cumbre. Hearty breakfasts are served in the traditional dining room.

• Upland Escapes (01367 851111; uplandescapes.com) has a week at Fonda de la Tea from £670, including flights and car hire

Just getting to Pacuare Lodge is an adventure: guests can arrive by raft, passing canyons and waterfalls that flow into the Pacuare River. The lodge is hidden inside tropical forest, with 13 bungalows, a pool and a central building with a restaurant and bar. Rooms are luxurious, with pristine white linen and polished wood floors.

• From $326 a night per person, including all meals and rafting tour; 00 506 2225 3939; junglelodgecostarica.com. Iberia (0870 609 0500; iberiaairlines.co.uk) flies to San Jose (via Madrid) from Heathrow from £579

One of the best mid-haul bets for winter sunshine, the Gambia mixes beautiful beaches with nature reserves and forests, four-wheel drive adventures and fishing trips. Ngala Lodge (ngalalodge.com) is a former colonial mansion with just 10 suites in a spectacular clifftop location. A small private beach offers fantastic fishing at low tide.

• Serenity Holidays (0845 330 2060; serenityholidays.co.uk) has a week from £599, including flights and transfers

One of the best Caribbean islands for trekking, Dominica is criss-crossed with walking trails – and many go through the grounds of the Zandoli Inn. Its six rooms are comfortable, with slick bathrooms and balconies, but no radio, TV or phones. It is an easy walk down to the village of Fond St Jean, or up to Morne Pei.

• Doubles from $145 room-only; 00 767 446 3161; zandoli.com. The cheapest way to fly to Dominica is by purchasing two separate return tickets. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Antigua from Gatwick from £554 return, after which Liat (liatairline.com) flies from Antigua to Dominica from £116

Mallorca's mild winter weather makes it perfect for walks up into the Tramuntana mountains, or horse rides across the plains. Located in Soller, L'Avenida has eight stunning bedrooms, all shot-silk drapes and jet chandeliers.

• Doubles from €225 B&B; 00 34 971 634 075; avenida-hotel.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Mallorca from 10 UK airports from £57

The perfect spot for lovers of the Caribbean who don't want to lie on a beach all day, the Mago Estate Hotel is perched between the Piton mountains, with fantastic hiking from the door. Take supper on the terrace for incredible views of the Pitons.

• Doubles from £114 B&B; 00 1 758 459 5880; magohotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to St Lucia from Gatwick from £571

Liby has some of the most astonishing Roman ruins in the Mediterranean and is becoming more accessible to tourists. Tripoli's first boutique hotel is hidden in the medina, with 15 rooms grouped around four tranquil courtyards.

• Doubles from $226 B&B; 00 218 21 33 44 917; elkhanhotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Tripoli from Heathrow from £263

A former colonial mansion, Villa Belle Epoque provides an escape from the madness of Cairo's streets in the lush suburb of Maadi. The house has 13 bedrooms with balconies, shady patios and a pool. A walking tour of the Maadi's historic homes and gardens gives a fascinating insight into Cairo's more recent history.

• Doubles from $255 B&B; 00 20 2 2358 0265; villabelleepoque.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Cairo from Heathrow from £302

Malabar House is ideal for combining lazy days on the Keralan backwaters with exploring the region's history. It dates back to the mid-18th century, and there are Dutch palaces, 15th-century Portuguese churches and ornate Indian temples to explore. The house has 17 elegant rooms and an Ayurvedic spa.

• Doubles from €220 B&B; 00 91 484 221 6666; malabarhouse.com. Qatar Airways (0870 3898 090; qatarairways.com) flies to Kochi (via Doha) from Heathrow from £476

Koh Phangan may be famous for raucous parties, but Mandalai is hidden on the quieter side of the island, near the village of Chaloklum. The 12 rooms are set around a pool and terrace that opens on to a beach. For the price, the level of style and comfort is impressive.

• Doubles from £58 B&B; 00 66 77 374 316 19; mandalaihotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Bangkok from Heathrow from £629

The Borjs de la Kasbah offers the riad experience for less. The rooms are comfortable, if a little bland, but the communal areas – the open-fronted dining room, cosy bar and sitting rooms – are all welcoming and delightfully furnished. There is a good sized pool for cooling off in after a spree in the souks.

• From £35 per person B&B, including airport transfers; 00 212 524 38 1101; lesborjsdelakasbah.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Marrakech from Gatwick and Manchester from £74

The 16 rooms at Madawi are decked out with locally made furniture and fabrics, but its x-factor is the open showers hidden among tropical ferns. The landscaped pool is a perfect spot for breakfast.

• Doubles from £48 B&B; 00 62 361 739 360; madawi.com. Qatar Airways (0870 3898 090; qatarairways.com) flies to Bali (via Doha) from Heathrow from £594

White Waters is about as far from the chintzy image of Madeira as it is possible to be. Rooms are neat and pared down, and all have balconies with sea views. The hotel is in Machico, perfect for exploring the east coast fishing villages, and for heading inland to the central plain, crisscrossed with levadas – irrigation channels that are now walking paths.

• Doubles from €87 B&B; 00 351 291 969 380; whitewaters-madeira.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Madeira from Gatwick, Stansted and Bristol from £61

This 300-year-old warehouse in the pretty village of Britona has been converted into an elegant hotel with eight rooms and two studios. Rooms have a colonial feel with antiques and wall frescoes.

• Doubles from £52 B&B; 00 91 0832 241 6737; casaboutiquehotels.com. Thomson Airways (0871 231 4691; thomson.co.uk) flies to Goa from Gatwick, Manchester and East Midlands from £599

With just six rooms and two suites, Hibiscus House is a world away from the vast resort hotels that now dominate Gambia's beaches. Rooms are furnished with African fabrics and art, and all have a private terrace or garden.

• From £64 B&B; 0151 703 0100; hibiscushousegambia.com. Monarch (08719 40 50 40; monarch.co.uk) flies to Banjul from Gatwick and Manchester from £257

Holidays In Middle East made a Multi-coumtry trip

2011-02-14T10:32:00.000-08:00

The dramatic landscapes of the Middle East are a great playground for families. Camping out with the Bedouin, exploring ancient castles or riding across the desert on camels will keep even the tetchiest teenager amused. Families Worldwide (0845 051 4567; familiesworldwide.co.uk) has launched a new nine-day tour of Egypt for 2010. Called Sinai and Desert, it combines visiting the pyramids, snorkelling in the Red Sea and camping with the Bedouin. The cost is from £1,099 for adults, £999 for children, including flights and accommodation.

The Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia has some impressive dive sites, but until now they have not been easily accessible for Western tourists. New holidays from Regaldive (01353 659999; regaldive.co.uk) will change that, with accommodation at the Al Alham resort in the coastal town of Al Lith. Days will be spent exploring virgin dive sites and reefs that are rich in coral and sea fans, and spotting turtles and pelicans nesting on nearby islands. A week's trip costs from £1,349, including flights and transfers.

Spend a couple of days lazing by the sea before slipping into ski gear and whizzing down the slopes on a new combination break to Lebanon with Black Tomato (020 7426 9888; blacktomato.co.uk). There is still snow on Lebanon's peaks even when it's warm enough to sunbathe on the beach, and the four-day itinerary includes time for both, along with visits to the ancient sites at Baalbeck and Byblos.

Good news for independent travellers: the launch of Dubai's first low-cost airline this summer has made a multi-country trip to the region easy and affordable. Flydubai has routes between Beirut, Damascus, Alexandria, Amman, Aleppo and Dubai with fares from about £60 one-way, although there are extra charges for checked-in baggage and booking a specific seat. Book at flydubai.com.

Due to open in November, the Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Resort in Abu Dhabi will be the first hotel in the vast empty wastes of the Empty Quarter - the largest uninterrupted stretch of desert in the world. The 196-room resort is designed to resemble an old desert fortress, but comes complete with state-of-the-art spa, children's club and a huge freeform pool. The desert itself can be explored by dune bike, 4x4 tours or on camping trips, all bookable through the hotel. A four-night break including breakfast costs from £929, including flights from Heathrow through Destinology (0800 634 2866; destinology.co.uk).

The Middle East may be undergoing a building boom, but there are areas where conservation issues are at the forefront of tourist development. The Ras Al-Jinz conservation area in Oman is located at the head of the Arabian peninsula and houses one of the largest nesting areas of green turtles in the Indian Ocean, with around 30,000 nesting in the 120km stretch of protected area. The Visitor Centre adjoins the Carapace Lodge, offering luxury accommodation from where guests can join tours of the nesting areas.

Spring Break 2011 in Europe!

2011-02-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

Having trouble deciding where you should go for Spring Break? What could be more fun and more memorable than spending Spring Break in Europe? Just imagine drinking fine wines in a Parisian cafe, visiting the Eiffel Tower and spending the afternoon at the Louvre. Or imagine sipping a frothy pint of Guiness, cheering loudly as you watch the latest Football match in a local pub in London. While you might not get a tan, one things for sure- you’re guaranteed to have memories that’ll last a lifetime.

You’ll be surprised just how affordable your European escape can be- chances are you’ll actually save money compared to a beach party binge-fest- and the best part is you’ll remember it all. (at least more of it )

There are so many incredible options to choose from when planning your Euro Trip and with only a quick visit, the toughest part is going to be picking only one or two cities to visit. A week is just enough to get a taste of Europe and I can guarantee you’ll be back for more!

Here are our students’ favorite European destinations that are perfect for a dash away from it all during Spring Break 2011.

The artistic (& romantic) capital of the world, Paris never dissapoints. With a wealth of history, incredible art exhibits and some of the world’s most famous sights- you’ll find no shortage of excitement in the French capital.

“Good Americans, when they die, go to Paris.” – Oscar Wilde

The classic European getaway- London is one of the cities you absolutely must see before you die. With world-famous sights, shopping, nightlife, theatre, buckingham palace, music, history and architecture

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” – Samuel Johnson

Canals, Cafes & Cannabis- that about sumsup the truly beautiful and eclectic city of Amsterdam. Spend the afternoon riding your bicycle through the cobble-street roads, visit the Van Gogh museum or swing by the Heineken brewery to sample a pint of refreshing beer. Whether you’re looking for an action packed party weekend with friends or a relaxing getaway, Holland’s claim to fame fits all.

“In Amsterdam the water is the mistress and the land the vassal. throughout the city there are as many canals and drawbridges as bracelets on a Gypsy’s bronzed arms. – Felix Marti-Ibanez

A Portuguese blend of Rome and San Francisco, Lisbon has held the title of capital since 1147, and rightfully so. Lisbon is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of History- combined with a reputation for friendly locals & world class wines.

Barcelona’s charm is evident in it’s rich history, traditions and cultural influences. Barcelona is home to incredible sites- Parc Guell & La Sagrada Familia to name a few- not to mention delicious tapas, succulent sangria and exotic flamenco dancing.

If ghost stories, Scottish whiskey tours and funny accents don’t do it for you, then steer clear of this popular backpacker destination. The medieval feel of Scotland’s capital still holds strong- with knights, castles and beef pies to die for- you can even visit the “birthplace” of Harry Potter.

Enjoy a pint of Guinness or “d black stuff” as it’s known to the locals at the world renowned Guinness Storehouse. Spend the day exploring Trinity College & O’Connel Street then cap your night off at the infamous Temple Bar district. Watch out for the drunkards who often end up brawling on the streets late at night!

Berlin, Berlin, Berlin. The German capital has endured the wrath of the World War, the rise and fall of the Berlin wall, and yet it’s rebuilt itself as a modern day powerhouse. With a rich and vibrant art scene, a never-ending party scene and decades of historical gems- Berlin is not to be missed.

Germany’s often neglected neighbor, Austria, is not to be underestimated. World class ski resorts, schnitzel to die for and a whole lot of Schnapps- this country knows how to get down. Home to the legendary Habsburg dynasty, Vienna is the history buff’s dream city. Blanketed with beautiful architecture, premiere Opera performances and decadent sweets- Vienna is a top pick that’s sure to surprise you.

So what are you waiting for?

Ready for a World Holidys Trip

2011-02-14T02:47:00.000-08:00

There is no feeling like getting ready for a big trip. Whether it’s a weekend in Vegas with the boys, or a 6 week Euro-trip, the anticipation before any vacation is tantalizing.

As you check off days on the calendar, counting each one down with anticipation… it seems like the day will never come. Then before you know it… it’s finally there. You set the alarm clock. Twice. (Which really doesn’t matter anyways because you can’t sleep from sheer excitement.) You jump out of bed, grab your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

For anyone who has ever traveled, I’m sure you can agree that embarking on a new journey is unforgettable. There’s no better feeling than sitting on the edge of your seat and hearing those words… “Buckle your seatbelts & prepare for takeoff!”

But what about the part nobody ever talks about? Coming home. I recently just completed one of the most amazing journeys of my life through Southeast Asia. 19 months in total to be exact. That’s 578.3 Days of shorts, sandals, and a whole lot of sun. Granted not all of that was spent traveling, but needless to say- it was freakin’ incredible… that is until I had to leave.

And you know what I came home to? Over 20 inches of snow in less than a few days, temperatures dropping below minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and freezing cold winds that cut to the core.

The craziest part? I absolutely loved it. The sheer fact that two ENTIRELY different worlds can co-exist within less than a day of travel, is pretty mind-boggling if you think about it. In a period of less than 30 hours, I experienced two drastic extremes- from 90 degrees Fahrenheit and flip-flops, to -20 degrees literally overnight. To me, that’s freakin’ cool. No pun intended.

Don’t get me wrong- there are things I absolutely love about living in a warm weather climate- being warm for instance- but there are definitely benefits to both. And the more I travel, the more I learn to love both sides of the coin. Skiing in the rockies, surfing in Bali, snowshoeing on frozen lakes, or snorkeling with giant sea turtles- I simply love it all.

You always hear about “reverse culture shock” and people who have difficulties integrating back into their home culture after being abroad. But I beg to differ- obviously it takes some time to adjust to everything, but I find that I end up loving home all that much more after spending some time abroad as it gives you perspective that you would never have access to when stuck in the daily grind.

It helps you appreciate things you normally take for granted and ultimately reveals just how truly fortunate we are to live in a country with many freedoms, and a high quality of life (you might argue this point- but after having traveled to many countries where the average wage was less than $100/month- you certainly come to appreciate the luxuries we have been brought up with… and I’m not even talking about big TV’s and nice cars- more like clean drinking water and good education!)

So which would you choose? Snowy Canada? or Balmy Thailand? I choose both and will continue to travel the globe in search of the best snow, sun, and adventure. At the end of the day it comes down to being flexible and willing to adapt to your surroundings. I can’t say I’ve ever traveled to a “bad” place. It’s entirely what you make of it, so go out there and seize the day!

For the love of travel,
Evan

P.S. Challenge yourself to create an adventure in your own backyard. So often we get stuck in the mindset of having to get away from it all in order to have fun- but why not check out some of the activities at your fingertips, or book a hotel in your own city & have a vacation at home! Travel is all about being creative… Live it up!

Morroc’n out in Marrakesh

2011-02-13T22:43:00.001-08:00

The flight took just over an hour, but as we entered the city it felt as though we were a million miles from Europe… We had just arrived into Marrakesh, after departing from Seville, Spain. I’d booked a few nights in a Riad on StudentUniverse.com.

Luckily, somebody from our hotel came and met us from the taxi, as there’s no way would have found the Riad otherwise. Marrakesh is full of winding, narrow, and seemingly unmarked streets. Getting lost is almost inevitable… It’s a bit daunting at first, but as you familiarize yourself and get your bearings getting lost can actually be an adventure. Plus you can always ask locals for directions, but some will expect a few dollars in return.

A Riad is a hotel/guesthouse in Morocco, which has multiple rooms, all surrounding a large shared courtyard, with roof terraces. The riads are lavishly decorated, and covered with communal sofas and cushions. Prices for a decent double room start from $50 per night, including breakfast, although you can pay much less for shared accommodation.

Marrakesh is separated into 2 parts, the old and the new town. We stayed in the old town, the “original Marrakesh“. The streets surround a large square called Djemaa El Fna. Here in the day you’ll find everything from snake charmers, to women offering henna tattoos, to delicious dried fruit stalls. At night the main square turns into a food market, which is actually a UNESCO national heritage site. You’ve been forewarned… food stands will tout very hard for your business! You can sample some of the local delicacies, lamb brains anyone? or how about some 5 spice snails! My favorite was the traditional Moroccan salads and kebabs. The atmosphere is incredible as the buzz of the market carries on through the night- not to mention the quick service you’ll receive.

The souks are one of the main draws to Marrakesh. Miles of winding streets, shops everywhere you look. Again it’s easy to get lost, but if you keep walking you’ll eventually meet the city wall, and find your way back. You’ll wish you had extra suitcases for all the souvenirs you’re sure to pick up. Leather goods, lamps and spices are some of the best buys. Keep in mind that haggling is expected and prices start reasonably higher than what you should pay. The shop keepers of Marrakesh are pro’s, and can sometimes be aggressive when haggling so be sure to only pay what you think is a good price, and don’t be bullied into purchasing. There’s no golden rule but only buy from somebody you have a good experience with, then your souvenir will hold fond memories. If you want to gauge prices, take a look round a fixed price shop first to get a better idea.

To get away from the craziness of the souks, we grabbed an ice cream and headed to one of the gardens near the city centre. These are welcome places of sanctity on a hot day. Other attractions to visit in Marrakesh include the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and El Badi Palace. StudentUniverse has a trip that will take you to see all the monuments in Marrakesh. If you have a strong stomach, you can also visit the tanneries, where leather is processed. But be warned, the chemicals used make the place smell pretty rancid.

Overall Marrakesh is a great place to visit for experiencing authentic cultures, foods & having a blast doing it!

I would suggest girls dress modestly while travelling here. I was with my boyfriend, and didn’t receive any hassle, but other people I spoke with had experienced some discomfort. I never went out without covering my legs, chest and shoulders. Scarfs are a good option, and an excuse to do more shopping! Marrakesh is not a great place if you hate cats or motor bikes, they are literally everywhere, I nearly trampled on a few kittens. I found letting the bikes move round me, opposed to trying to dodge them, caused less confusion.The climate is pleasant all year round. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are probably the best times to visit. It gets really hot in the summer months, reaching up to 100+ Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) in August.Morocco has an exchange control, so you’re not allowed to import or export the Moroccan Dirham’s. Foreign currency can be exchanged at Bureau de Changes, at a bank and sometimes at your hotel. We wrongly took travellers checks, which they wouldn’t exchange in many places.

Late Holidays In Central and Northern Europe by Car

2011-01-25T09:27:00.000-08:00

Traveling by car in Europe can be fun or boring, depending on the location where one drives. During holiday seasons such as August, innumerable Europeans drive their families to expeditions on beaches and mountains. Therefore, traffic jams are bound to be at their peak during such times. Additionally, at any given time within the year, the major cities of Europe such as Paris, London, and Rome can be unpleasant for car travel due to a number of events. With such consideration, fall and spring are probably the best periods to take a driving vacation in Central and Northern Europe. The southern region is an appropriate environment if the Christmas break is avoided. Nevertheless, if one’s vacation coincides with the schools calendar, the best time to visit and travel in Europe by car is June, just before the peak of the summer season.

Most people’s first trips in Europe are taken by train, but driving can be more fun. This is because sitting behind the car steering wheel in Europe guarantees one of movement to any place at any given time. In countries such as Sweden, Denmark and Norway, car travel is very friendly, and even the largest cities in these countries provide an ample driving environment. In many regions of Europe, driving routes form circles around the routes used by trains whose focus is in countryside trips.

The super high flexibility of roads coupled with a high mobility of cars makes it possible to get accommodation at almost any destination both in minor towns and in regions that lie far away from railway lines. Even if the hotels in one town are all booked, it is possible to move to another town or towns and get alternative accommodation. Driving around is more fun because people who do not like light packing can carry more belongings and rent a trailer for transport. Car travel has remained popular in Europe as train fares keep on skyrocketing.

Renting a car is one of the best decisions people visiting Europe can make. Most companies in Europe offer car rental services that last 24 hours and allow a grace period of 59 hours. It is economical to rent a car during weekdays. Although daily charges are usually high, most companies have three-day programs in which the rates are negotiable. It is also worthwhile to consider using rail and road connections by obtaining passes that will allow movement by car and by train.

With such deals, one can rent a car on daily basis at a rate that is about one-seventh of the normal weekly rates. In order to get best deals on long-term car rentals in Europe, people intending to travel from the US can book in advance by visiting the respective companies’ agency offices or book through their travel agents. Even if a person plans to rent a car in Europe on a short-tome basis, it is best to book in advance through a travel agent since renting the car directly can be quite exorbitant. Nonetheless, there is no guarantee that one would get the best deals since the charges vary with season in different countries and among different companies.

Kaymer win underlines European renaissance in global game

2011-01-25T05:17:00.000-08:00

Martin Kaymer's stunning eight-shot victory at the Abu Dhabi Championship on Sunday served yet another reminder of the rich renaissance in European golf at the highest level.

The ice-cool German replaced Tiger Woods as the world number two following his third success in four years at the tournament in the United Arab Emirates, and three players from Europe now occupy spots in the top four.

Britain's Lee Westwood remains at number one in the world rankings with American Woods third and Northern Irishman Graeme McDowell fourth. Three other Europeans are in the top 10.

The last time two Europeans were ranked first and second was in 1993 when Britain's Nick Faldo and Germany's Bernhard Langer reigned supreme.

"You can see how strong European golf has become the last few years, and not only through the Ryder Cup, just if you have a look at the major winners last year," Kaymer told reporters.

"It's just a matter of time before Rory (McIlroy) wins a big, big tournament somewhere. He won at Quail Hollow last year but I think he will win plenty of majors in his career.

"So you can see that European golf is getting better and better. The PGA Tour in America is a fantastic tour but I think our Tour, we don't have to hide anywhere."

Seventh-ranked McIlroy, widely tipped as a future world number one, was a member of the team which beat the United States in last year's Ryder Cup, Europe's fourth triumph in the last five editions of the biennial team event.

Aged only 21, the Northern Irishman served notice of his abundant potential when he shot a course record 10-under 62 to win the PGA Tour's Quail Hollow Championship by four strokes last year.

UNPRECEDENTED SUCCESS

Ryder Cup aside, 2010 was most memorable from a European perspective because of the continent's unprecedented successes in the majors and the elite World Golf Championship (WGC) events. McDowell won the US Open, Kaymer lifted the PGA Championship, Britain's Ian Poulter clinched the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship and Italy's Francesco Molinari claimed the WGC-HSBC Champions tournament.

"It's brought a lot to the European Tour with three major champions, the Ryder Cup win and then Lee becoming the world's No. 1," said McDowell, who won four titles worldwide last year. "It's been exciting for European golf. We've got some really great, young talent coming through."

South African Louis Oosthuizen, a European Tour member, won last year's British Open. While the US PGA Tour has traditionally attracted the world's best players because of its stronger financial muscle, its European counterpart has frequently been superior in quality on certain weeks of the year.

This week's events staged at opposite ends of the world were a case in point. The European Tour's Abu Dhabi Championship attracted six players from the world's top 10, and 14 of the top 30. On the PGA Tour, the Bob Hope Classic at La Quinta, California drew only two members of the top 30, and just six of top 50.

Late Holidays In Switzerland Alps

2011-01-25T01:13:00.001-08:00

Small, mountainous and wealthy, with a population of just seven million, Switzerland is renowned for its enviable quality of life in a country that ticks along like clockwork. Its products are sought after the world over, from dangerously delicious cheese and chocolate to luxurious watches whose timekeeping is as sharp as a Swiss army knife, another popular export from this clever little nation in the Alps.

Switzerland’s famed political neutrality and isolated location, ring-fenced by mountains, have enabled it to play a safe but central role in European affairs. These factors also gave rise to the coveted Swiss bank account, whose anonymity, along with tax relief and what may be the safest banks in the world, have made Zürich one of Europe’s major financial hubs. The conveniently central location in the middle of Europe has also made Switzerland a favourite meeting place for conventions and international conferences – Geneva, for instance, is home to the United Nations.

Switzerland is not only a place for professionals, though. As a stylish tourist destination it offers top ski resorts like Zermatt and celebrity-studded St Moritz, while the white peaks of mountains set against blue skies make a wonderful backdrop for summertime hiking. The ancient capital of Berne provides opportunities for sightseeing and elegant shopping, while nightlife can prove to be a lot of fun, too, since the Swiss like their food and folk music even in discotheques and nightclubs.

The Roman experience in Italy

2010-11-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

If you are visiting Italy, there is no way you are going to miss out on the Roman experience. Rome is a trek back into time to savor its many colors and tastes. Rome cannot be described simply. It is a combination of the Renaissance, the Imperial Rome, the Rome of the Popes and the Rome of the ordinary people. It is one of Italy’s largest and most populated cities and is situated on the Tiber River. Rome is also listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. With a history spanning over 2000 years, Rome is a place worth visiting if only to soak in the glorious heritage of its rich and radiant past.

The Pantheon

The Pantheon - Architectural splendor in Rome

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The Pantheon is a beautiful piece of art. It is situated in the centre of Rome; in Piazza della Rotonda. It is the perfect example of Roman architecture. The stunning building also houses the grave of the famous painter, Raphel.

The Colosseum

The Colosseum

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The Colosseum was built in 80 A.D. and is over 160 feet high. It was constructed as a place for gladiator and animal fights able to house more than 50,000 spectators. It is a world famous structure and still going strong in spite of earthquakes.

Things to do

Rome is not for the laidback. It is a city filled with activity so, gear up for a tour filled with chaotic life, an experience in itself! Visit the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel. You can get to see the work of Michelangelo and Botticelli here.

See the Trevi Fountain or the Fontana di Trevi that is one of Rome’s most popular sights. It is a huge water structure constructed on a small square with the Palazzo Poli serving as its backdrop. The fountain displays the sculpture of Neptune with Abundance and Health beside it. Do throw in that coin to return to the place once again!

Take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica which is the world’s largest Basilica of Christianity. Around a thousand people can pray in it. It is filled with frescoes, statues and beautiful paintings.

See the Piazza di Spanga or the Spanish Steps as it is commonly known. The Spanish Steps holds a fashion show once a year during summer.

How to get there

Getting around in Rome is easy as it is not a very big place. In fact, going by foot is the best option as you get to see surprising places which you may miss otherwise. However, the bus service is Rome is good too. Trains run every 7-10 minutes. The metro subway is perfect for short term visitors. Although taxis can be rented, by far, the train service is the most efficient and economical way of moving around in Rome and Italy.

Orlando - Entertainment 24X7

2010-11-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

If you are in search of wholesome entertainment for your vacation then this time, make it to Orlando. It is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Located in central Florida, it is famous the world over for attractions like Disney World, Universal Studio and Sea World. Named Orlando after a brave soldier Orlando Reeves who fought during the war against the Seminole Indian in 1836, Orlando is one great place to have fun. In fact, there are so many places to see, enjoy and have fun that you might run out of time!

Orlando’s main attractions are its theme parks.

The Walt Disney World Resort is one such tourist attraction.

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort

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The Walt Disney World has four theme parks with 24 onsite resorts, golf courses, water courses and interactive video game park not to leave out the shopping area. The high tech rides, the wonderful shows with the cute characters provide great entertainment to last a lifetime!

Universal Studios, Orlando

Universal Studios, Orlando

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Universal Studios in Orlando has three onsite hotels and two amusement parks offering interactive adventure rides based on movies like Shrek, Revenge of the Mummy, Jaws, Men in Black, Alien Attack, Terminator, Jurassic Park and many more interesting movies. The whole process is great fun leaving you no time to pause and wonder. Universal Express Passes are available that offer faster access to select rides.

Sea World Adventure Park

Sea World Adventure Park, Orlando

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The Park is filled with a host of things like an amusement park, aquarium, beer garden, sea lions, whales, dolphins and the ever so cute otters. The Kraken roller coaster ride is another added attraction. It is also well known for the Sea World Animal Rescue Team that rescues endangered animals and takes care of them till they are fine.

Things to Do

Take an airboat trip through the headwaters of the Florida everglades or take a helicopter or even a hot air balloon ride giving you an entirely new experience.

Dine in the various theme restaurants with food served to you from all over the globe.

Take a walk in the Lake Eola Park if the roller coasters tire you out. The Park is filled with fountains, swans and a playground. The whole family is bound to enjoy it.

Go hiking in the Ocala National Forest if you need a change from all the parks.

The Disney town of Celebration is another place that is worth visiting if you have time on your hands. The place has an interactive fountain, beautiful houses and a playground for children to play.

How to get there

You can reach Orlando at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) being ranked one of the second largest airports in the world. Within Orlando, transportation is best done by FL Tours that take you to the all the places you want to go without any hitch. Trains, buses and cruises are also available as alternative methods of travel.

The Swiss Connection in Switzerland

2010-11-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

The Land of the Alps, Switzerland is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the entire world. It is bordered by countries like Germany, France, Austria and Italy and offers some of the most panoramic views giving you ample opportunities to ski, fish, hunt and do some boating. No wonder, people rush to Switzerland for a grand holiday, with many movies shooting some of their best shots here. It is also one of the richest countries in the world with numerous people having Swiss accounts. There is plenty that you can see in Switzerland so you need to plan your visit beforehand. Here are some of the places you just cannot not miss.

Chillon Castle

Chillon Castle

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It is one of the most famous castles in Switzerland located on the shore of Lake Geneva. It has around 100 buildings and all date way back to the 11th century related to the Savoy nobility.

Piz Gloria atop Schilthorn Mountain

Piz Gloria

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2970 m above sea level

The Piz Gloria is a revolving restaurant atop the Schilthorn Mountain in the Swiss Alps. Apart from its unique location and structure, it is well known for having been used as the shooting site for one of James Bond’s movies, ‘On Her Majesty’s Service.’ The restaurant gives you a 360 degree view of the entire place even as you dine. It is definitely, one of the most spectacular sights in Switzerland.

Chalet in Switzerland

Chalet

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No stay or visit in Switzerland is complete if you haven’t stayed in a chalet which is a traditional wooden house. It makes you feel very cozy and comfortable.

Geneva Jet D’eau

Geneva Jet D’eau

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Considered as a symbol of the land, the fountain is located in the heart of one of the main cities in Switzerland and projects water as high as 140 meters.

What not to miss out on in Switzerland

Mountain sports are one of the most popular pastimes in Switzerland. So, don’t miss out ice climbing, ski touring, glacier walking and snowboarding.

Do take a ride in one of the world’s highest aerial cable cars up the Little Matterhorn at Zermatt.

Enjoy some of the country’s street parades or theatre performances.

Go lake cruising or ferrying on lakes like Lake Zurich, Lake Geneva, or Lake Constance.

Travel by the Glacier Express, one of Europe’s greatest rail journeys.

Traveling in Switzerland

Traveling in Switzerland is one of the smoothest and comfortable things that you will ever experience here. The public transport is clean, clear and punctual. You can get discount options on tickets for buses, trains or bike rentals. Driving by car is also one of the best ways to explore the country.

Currency

All ATMs accept foreign cards so getting cash is no problem. Although Switzerland is not part of the European Union, almost all public places like restaurants, supermarkets and the like accept Euro. Of course, the currency basically used here is the Swiss franc.

Best Known Products

If you are here in Switzerland how can you not have a look or purchase some of the world’s best known Swiss watches (Rolex, Omega), the famous Swiss chocolates (Nestle is a Swiss company by the way), the delicious Swiss cheese and of course the impressive Swiss knives!

Madagascar - The Land of The White Pygmies

2010-11-04T05:32:00.000-07:00

One of the fourth largest islands in the world, Madagascar is surrounded by beautiful beaches and palm trees filled with natural reserves, grassy plateaus and dense forests. The Republic of Madagascar lies in the Indian Ocean separated from the African mainland by the 248 mile wide Mozambique Channel. The eco tourist friendly place is fun to enjoy amidst beautiful flowering plants natural history and a great place to explore and have an adventure of a lifetime.

Antananarivo

Antananarivo - Capital city of Madagascar

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The place retains most of its French flavor with French being the main language spoken here. Even the road and shop signs are in French.

Anjajavy Reserve

Anjajavy Reserve

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This is the best place to not only enjoy the natural habitat but also the natural history of the place. It is a nicely preserved habitat of dry deciduous forest with a lot of mouse lemurs, Coquerel’s sifaka, chameleons and the Madagascan fish eagle and of course the lovely beaches.

Ankarana Reserve

Ankarana Reserve

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Situated 65 km south of Diego Suarez, it has a plateau made of limestone in the shape of a fortress decorated with fields of pinnacles. You can find subterranean rivers, caves and passages underneath the plateau.

Mahajanga

Mahajanga - Town of Flowers

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Mahajanga, situated at the mouth of the Betsiboka River is a wonderful place to be in surrounded by shaded arcades, flowering bougainvillea shrubs and pre-colonial architecture. The place also has many churches and mosques.

Ambohimanga

Ambohimanga

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Ambohimanga is the birthplace of Malagasy state and is a significant Merina stronghold. The citadel’s main gate is a huge stone disc.

Markets of Madagascar

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The markets here are full of life with the various colors and scents. In fact, the daily Zoma Market is stated to be the second largest in the world. Other busy and interesting markets are the Bazary Be and the Toamasina Market which is the country’s main port.

Things to do

Visit the country’s national monument in Antananarivo which is the Queen’s Palace and the Royal Palace or Rova said to be occupied by the Merina Dynasty in the 19th century.

Don’t miss out on Ampefy which is a volcanic region with beautiful waterfalls and a natural reserve, Perinet that has innumerable species of orchid and the indri or the tailless lemur.

For those interested in water sports, try water skiing or sailing at Lake Mantasoa, Andraikiba Lake and Ramona. You can also do some river rafting in the Highlands and on the East Coast.

Relax on the innumerable beaches like for instance the one in Antseranana which is a cosmopolitan seaport overlooking lakes, waterfalls and grottoes.

Do snorkeling and diving at the tourist friendly place like Nosy Be.

How to get there

Madagascar can be reached by air anytime. Air Madagascar offers many frequent air services to and fro. Moving around in Madagascar can be done by the many coastal transport services. Small boat safaris are also available. Other modes of travel are the bus, train, taxi and rickshaw. Car and bikes are also available on hire to make your ride more personal and convenient.

Eastern Cape – The Land of The Great Karoo

2010-11-04T01:00:00.000-07:00

Filled with sunshine the whole year around, the Eastern Cape is one great place to go for a vacation. If it is the seaside you are searching for or beautiful greenery and unspoiled areas of natural beauty then, the Eastern Cape is the place for you. A great hit amongst people wanting to get away from hurried, strenuous city life, the Eastern Cape serves as a respite with its innumerable mountains, game reserves, beaches and beautiful landscape. It is the second largest of South Africa’s nine provinces with world famous leaders like Nelson Mandela born here.

Port Elizabeth

Friendly City, Port Elizabeth

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The capital city of Eastern Cape is called so because it offers fun and attraction for families interested in a nice vacation filled with wildlife, nature trails and plenty of water sports. Port Elizabeth is the largest city on the coast between Cape Town and Durban.

Karoo Heartland

‘Dry heart’ of South Africa

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The large open spaces, the mountains, the towns and villages embedded with history and tradition and the beautiful sunsets personify all that is Eastern Cape in South Africa. The beauty of the rocky mountains and the succulents apart from the varies animals make a visit to Karoo Heartland a great experience.

Things to do

Don’t miss out on East London, the only river port city here filled with wide unending stretches of white beaches. The place boasts of its African lineage very harmoniously revealing its English and German connections too. People are very friendly here adding to your holiday pleasure.

Do visit Sunshine Coast that is filled with beaches, water sports, sheltered coves and the nature reserves. Its main charm is that it is yet to get commercialized unlike other tourist destinations.

Visit the Addo Elephant Park which also contains the Sundays River Valley a, crook formed within the Elephant Park.

Visit the Nelson Mandela Museum in Qunu which gives you an insight into the life of the man who freed mankind from the shackles of discrimination. See the Bhunga Building in Umtata, Mvezo, the birthplace of Mandela and Qunu, a village where the Youth and Heritage Center stands today.

Don’t miss Tsitsikamma which is a splendid piece of land surrounded by ancient trees and homes of wild animals. Gorges carve their way out through the mountains and trickle into clean streams, pools and even waterfalls. The Storms River is one such river. Canopy tours are available here.

Play with real lion cubs in the Seaview Lion Park in Port Elizabeth. Other animals like the giraffe, zebra, duiker monkeys and other species walk freely in this natural reserve.

Tstisikamma - place of abundant water

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How to get there

The airports are at Port Elizabeth and East London. When you get into Eastern Cape, moving around in a car is the best option especially between cities and towns. Minibuses are also available for longer distances. The train service is best suited for areas like the Wild Coast for the beautiful scenery otherwise; road travel is the best here.

Tags: Addo Elephant Park, Bhunga Building, East London, Eastern Cape, Karoo, Port Elizabeth, Qunu, Seaview Lion Park, South Africa, Sundays River Valley, Tsitsikamma

Pretty Venice: Land of Canals and Churches

2010-11-03T21:59:00.000-07:00

Filled with attractive and beautiful monuments, Venice is one of the most important cities of Italy and of course, one of the most famous tourist destinations the world over. Its history dates back to more than 1,500 years old connecting about 117 islands with about 150 canals, around 400 bridges and innumerable ancient pavements and landmarks that still attract visitors in hordes. For those looking for a place that offers interesting towns, beautiful Gothic architecture, delicious Italian cuisine and of course most venerated and spectacular churches then, Venice is the place to go.

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica San Marco)

Cathedral of Venice

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It is one of the most famous sights in Venice dedicated to St. Mark in the 9th century. The church is a real masterpiece with beautiful carvings and statutes with five large domes. For those interested in having a view from the roof, a lift takes you up from where you can get a beautiful view above the lagoons and rooftops.

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal - Connecting the City

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The heart of Venice lies in the Grand Canal that is actually a long stretch of water running throughout the city. It is also referred to as ‘the most beautiful street in the whole of Venice.’

Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge - The first bridge built atop the Grand Canal

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The Rialto Bridge was the first stone bridge to replace the earlier wooden bridge on the Grand Canal and was constructed by Anotnio da Ponte (Anthony of the Bridge). It is one of the cities most famous bridges with the commercial hub operating right from there. The surrounding area is bustling with activity especially the ever popular fruit and vegetable market apart from the Fondaco dei Tedeschi or the central post office.

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

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Situated just next to St. Basilica, it is a must see in Venice. It is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture with the waterfront view simply splendid. Constructed initially as a fortress in the 9th century, the building now includes the Scala d’Oro that is a huge ceremonial staircase and the Sala del Maggior Consiglio that is actually a Grand Council Chamber. Many paintings are also on display so a tour of this place is a must as it serves as a memorable museum of sorts.

Things to do

The first thing that you need to do here in Venice is to take a Grand Canal tour on a ‘vaporetti’ or water bus. It will surely be one of the most romantic and beautiful rides that you ever had.

Visit St. Mark’s Square or the Piazza San Marco which is a popular tourist attraction with cafes, live music and the general busy life dominant here. The Square is surrounded by beautiful buildings on all three sides making the visit all the more worthwhile.

Watch a glass blowing demonstration or glass sculpture on Murano Island.

Visit Burano Island filled with brightly colored buildings.

Take a hike on Torcello Island to see a nature reserve and beautiful scenery.

How to get there

The Venice Marco Polo Airport serves a number of domestic and international flights. Getting around in Venice is easy with sights within walking distance. While walking is a good way to find your way around (with a map of course), water buses, water taxis, gondolas are the most common means of getting around in the city. Of course, regular taxis, buses and trains are also available, but the heart of the city is by water travel.

Tasmania - The Land of the Tasmanian Devil

2010-11-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

Ask any child about the Tasmanian Devil and he is bound to identify the cartoon character on television. But, Tasmania is much more than this national emblem and its natural heritage called the Tasmanian Tiger. Situated 200 km south of Australia, Tasmania or Tassie as it is affectionately known is all about exotic sceneries, beautiful beaches, caves and gorgeous surf and a fun place to have the greatest adventure of your life. Combining modern facilities like restaurants, shopping centers, nightclubs and historic sites, Tasmania is all that you wanted to experience during a vacation not to mention the famous Wines of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Apples.

Cradle Mountain National Park

Waterfall - Cradle Mountain National Park

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Cradle Mountain Park with the Dove Lake and the Lake St. Clair National Park with their alpine peaks and beautiful lakes make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Tasmania. As you take a leisurely walk you can experience and enjoy the natural beauty. What makes it all appealing is that there are a lot of places like the beaches for instance that are not crowded giving you more opportunities to appreciate the soothing atmosphere.

Port Arthur

Port Arthur

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Port Arthur is a historic site bringing alive the ruins of a cruel criminal colony in Tasmania where prisoners were sent. The place stands today as a reminiscence of survival. Today, the place is surrounded by impressive architecture and beautiful gardens and a museum.

The Tasmanian Tiger

The Tasmanian Tiger

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The Tasmanian Tiger is a national emblem of Tasmania. It became extinct due to the European settlers way back. Another Tasmanian creature facing threat is the Tasmanian Devil. A Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park exists in Tasmania especially to make the people aware of its existence and the importance of preserving it.

Things to Do

Tasmania is a great place for people interested in adventure sports. You can have fun kayaking, river rafting, jump falls, climbing, hang gliding, jet boating, sailing, golf and fishing.

Don’t miss out on visiting wineries like the Cascade Brewery which is Australia’s oldest operating brewery against the background of the Mount Wellington and untouched forest area.

Take a river cruise through the beautiful Gordon river from Strahan and enjoy the rainforest with the river flowing below.

Take a walk around Sullivan’s Cove and the Salamanca Markets. Many fishing boats, tall-masted wooden vessels and millionaire yachts come there. There are shops selling craft materials apart from coffee shops and eateries so you can have fun shopping and dining too.

Visit Hobart, the capital of Tasmania located down below Mount Wellington and Mount Nelson. Here, you get to experience the urban side of Tasmania with restaurants, shopping malls, clubs and other facilities available.

How to reach there

You can reach Tasmania by flight and with numerous flights available to and fro Tasmania making the place a well sought after economical destination. Getting around Tasmania is easy with buses run by Metro Tasmania being the largest passenger transport company in Tasmania. Cars (both public and private) are also available on hire.

Scintillating Sydney - The Harbour City

2010-11-03T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sydney is one of the most well known cities in the world. It is situated in the state of New South Wales in Australia with its population comprising mainly of migrants and international students. The Portuguese, Chinese and the Brazilians live harmoniously in this easily navigable place of Sydney. Most people use this as the main entrance for Australia. The city has a lot to offer to the common tourist. It is a great place for both outdoor and indoor activities so you are bound to like the place and keeping coming back for more!

Sydney

Sydney, Australia

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Those visiting Sydney for the first time must visit the Centre Point Tower which gives a 360 degree view from above giving you the idea of Sydney as a whole.

Beach of Bondi

Beach of Bondi

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Things to do

Circular Quay can be the next place to visit as it is located just in front of downtown. Here, you can also get to see the Opera House which is a huge structure with a very impressive roof. The Harbour Bridge is another place worth visiting. The Rocks is one place visitors may find interesting as it was here that Captain Cook landed.

Do visit the Beach of Bondi which is one the most famous beaches of Australia. It is a great place to have fun playing volleyball, windsurfing, kayaking and surfing. When you come out on the streets of Bondi, you are greeted with innumerable cafes and night clubs so you are bound to have a great time on the whole.

See Darling Harbour that is another tourist attraction with one of the best salt water aquariums in the world.

Visit the Powerhouse which is a museum exclusively for machines and technology oriented stuff.

If you are in Sydney you are bound to indulge in some shopping. You can do your shopping in the Shopping Complex near the Great Barrier Reef. All kinds of souvenir shops are there exclusively for tourists. Visit the Paddington Craft Market and the Glebe second-hand market. You will enjoy it. And yes, don’t miss out on the Sydney Fish Market which is one of the biggest fish market in the Southern Hemisphere.

As you get out of Sydney, the spectacular gorges and beautiful mountains of the Blue Mountains will make you feel good. A cable car will give you beautiful sights in the Blue Mountain. The Great Diving Range is also nearby which are the biggest ranges in Australia.

How to get there

The best way to move around in Sydney will be either by foot or by public buses and ferries. They are easily affordable and efficient. The public bus system and the public city rail trains in Sydney help you get around quickly. Look out for the yellow and green ferries which are one of the most convenient ways to get around Sydney and other nearby destinations.

The Land of the Vietnam War

2010-11-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

If all you know about Vietnam is the Vietnam War that took place ages ago, you cannot be blamed. Today however, Vietnam, stretching over 1,800 km up the eastern coast of Indochina is no longer the victimized land of war. It is a popular tourist destination where people not only come to honor those who died in the war but also experience beautiful authenticity of the Vietnamese culture, their traditions, the exquisite scenery, architecture and the hustle bustle of everyday Vietnamese life. The very fact that Vietnam is often opted for as a travel destination makes it a place worth visiting and experiencing.

Hanoi

Hanoi - Capital city of Vietnam

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It is the best way to experience a new way of life along the banks of the Red River which is set amidst yellow stucco buildings bordering streets with leaves. The Art Museum also stands here which has on display sculptures, paintings and other artifacts. You can also visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum where people pay respects to the leader. The city is a striking combination of the old and the new, the ancient and the modern with French colonialism architecture standing tall with the high rise steel and glass buildings.

War Remnants Museum

War Remnants Museum - Historical importance

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No trip to Vietnam is complete without a visit to the War Remnants Museum which gives an insight into the Vietnam War.

Reunification Palace

Reunification Palace - Symbol of a past history

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This palace served as a government building during the Vietnam War and represents in many ways as a symbol of the war in 1966. Its historical importance cannot be underplayed.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City -The business hub of Vietnam

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Also known as Saigon, most visitors visit Ho Chi Minh City when they land in Vietnam. Not only is the place filled with impressive architecture influenced by the French, there are also numerous hotels and other facilities to attract the tourists.

Cho Ben Thanh Market

Cho Ben Thanh Market - Authentic Vietnam

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For those interested in the real Vietnam experience, visiting the Cho Ben Thanh Market is a real must. Souvenirs, various types of food and animals are right there in the market and you can immerse yourself in the flavor of the Vietnam way of life.

Things to Do

Visit Binh Tay, a place filled with attractive little shops and teahouses.

A visit to a local neighborhood like for Cholon District 5 is a must as it gives you an idea of authentic Vietnam traditions.

If you are interested in hiking, then make it to Dalat which is a popular place to indulge in some climbing in the mountains, having a walk around Emperor Bao Dai’s Summer Palace or even horse riding.

Visit Halong where you can tour about 3000 islands around the Gulf of Tonkin by paddle wheeler or by high speed boat and have a great time exploring the beaches and the grottos.

Vietnam is a great place to grab hold of a bicycle and ride long distance.

Visit the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh.

How to get there

Vietnam Airlines is the best way to reach Vietnam. Regular services are there and that include helicopter and express boats. Within the country, you can use the rail transport system or even buses, motorbikes and cycle rickshaws.

The Balinese Adventure in Indonesia

2010-11-03T06:05:00.000-07:00

Bali has that magical and mythological feel to it and why not? It is a land filled with ancient temples, volcanic lakes, beautiful architecture and religious festivals. Bali is a land with ethnic culture and beautiful color. It is one of the several islands of Indonesia, situated between the islands Java and Nusa. The Balinese people are well known for their ethnicity and their creativity. In spite of modern influences, Bali has retained much of its ancient lineage in the form of sculptures, paintings and art and culture.

Pura Besakih

Mother Temple of Bali, Indonesia

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This thousand year old temple is one of the biggest temples in Bali. It is situated on the slopes of Mt. Agung. There are three main temples dedicated to the Trinity: Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. A visit to the temple is considered a special pilgrimage for the people of Bali.

Terraced rice paddies

Terraced Rice Paddies

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A beautiful landscape between Candidasa and Amalpura.

Tanah Lot

Sea Temple of Bali

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Built by one of the last priests who came to Java in the 16th century, this temple is built on top of a rock surrounded by sea on all sides. The temple is mainly to offer homage to the guardian spirits of the sea.

Gunung Batur

This is the shadow of where we’re standing.

Gunung Batur - Symbolic of the female element

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It is one of the still active volcanoes at an altitude of 5,635 feet and considered one of the second holiest mountains on the island.

Ubud

Center of Balinese paintings

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Ubud’s Museum, Purl Lukisan is a wonderful place to observe and appreciate the Balinese art. Art work of famous artists like Hans Snel, Antonio Blanco and Arie Smith can also be seen here.

Things to do in Bali

Though only an island, Bali has innumerable activities that can be indulged in.

Don’t miss out on the many beautiful beaches here like those of Nusa Dua, Sanur and Kuta. You can laze around here.

Shop for exotic items made of wood, leather, carvings and stone. Bali is well known for its exquisite handicrafts, antiques, artifacts, stone carvings, paintings and masks. There are lots you can choose from.

Have fun tasting the many different dishes made out of the staple food of Bali – rice.

Go for submarine diving or take a walk in the ocean. If possible, try out white water rafting.

For the adventurous, bungee jumping and surfing are great options while those wanting an aerial view of all the exotic scenery can go for a helicopter ride.

Currency

Foreign currencies can be easily exchanged here with ATMs available in most places.

Traveling in Bali

Traveling in Bali is simple and uncomplicated. You can make use of buses, mini buses and bemos (actually a minibus or van with a row of low seats on either side) to move about within towns. Cars can also be hired and motorcycles used but do be wary when you are going alone as you need to be careful when you are on your own.

Be Aware While in Europe

2010-11-03T02:01:00.001-07:00

Traveling to Europe can be a very rewarding experience if you plan carefully. I myself have made many trips to Germany and Holland, and quite a few times I have had problems of one kind or another, most which would not have happened if I had better foresight/ better planning.

Plan for the Euro Exchange. Your budget can be butchered by the unseemly high cost in tourist areas. Case in point while shopping in Frankfurt, I decided to take a break and sit down. I just happen to sit down in front of a Pizza Hut, a short while latter a waitress came out and ask if I wanted anything? So I thought what the heck I’m thirsty so I asked for a Coke. She came back with a .5 liter (16 oz.) glass of coke and ice. I enjoyed the tasty glass of pop and was ready to leave so I went to the window to pay for my drink.

5 Euro, Please she says. 5 Euro? You must have made a mistake, I just ordered a drink! I replied, She kindly pointed to the menu board behind her, and sure enough.5-Euro for an Lg.Coke. Which is about $6.25 USD for a Coke, I couldn’t believe it. The rest of my time in Germany was a lot like that, 35-50-euro for half-day stuff like small museums and tours, 70-120-euro for full day attractions. It kind of makes Disney’s $53.00 tickets look very cheap.

My solution to this price Dilemma was to do more local shopping and less sight seeing. A local mart sells 1 liter of Coke for 1.20- euro. And local stores are reasonably priced and there a great place to pick up sovereigns, Cheap! If you are wealthy this article might not apply to you however if you have to watch wasteful spending. Keep a close eye on the Euro Dollar. And plan for the extras. Watch the extra percents that you lose when exchanging your Dollars for euro-dollars and then when you spend the euro dollar. In general every time you spend 1-euro it could cost you $1.60 USD. Depending how you get charged at the exchange window and then the exchange rate. Some banks and few ATMs don’t charge for the conversion.

Plan for Safety while traveling in Europe, Train Stations are a haven for the homeless and vagabonds. Watch your pockets and your Bags. Never leave your luggage for a second, keep your hands on your bags while around the train stations.

Beware of Taxi Drivers abroad. In my experience a good percent of taxi drivers are what I can only describe as gypsies. Some of these operators have scams for all occasions, anything from their kid hiding in the trunk going thru your bags or just driving around pretending not to know where your building is, running up the fare. Needless to say don’t put your purse down and don’t flash things like wallet, passports, airline tickets, even wearing a lot of jewelry can be trouble. One other thing to remember is to read the Taxi’s number and time of day, and traveling late at night is always a bad idea.

JD Power & Associates Reports on European Hotel Satisfaction

2010-10-27T15:12:00.000-07:00

While overall satisfaction among European hotel guests appears to have remained stable after achieving a five-year high in 2009, satisfaction with the rest of the guest experience has declined notably, when the benefit of lower guest room rates is removed, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2010 European Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study released today. While these declines occur in three of four hotel segments included in the study, satisfaction in the economy segment has increased. The study, now in its sixth year, examines the overall satisfaction of European hotel guests based on seven measures (in order of importance): guest room; costs and fees; hotel facilities; check-in/check-out; food and beverage; hotel services; and reservations. Thirty-six hotel brands are measured and ranked in four segments: upper upscale, upscale, mid-scale full service and economy.

Overall satisfaction across the industry remains flat in 2010, averaging 745 on a 1,000-point scale, compared with 746 in 2009. In three of the four segments—upper upscale, upscale and mid-scale full-service—satisfaction has declined in all measures except cost and fees. Throughout the economic downturn, many hoteliers reduced operational costs amid declining demand and lower rates. After overall satisfaction peaked to a five-year high in 2009, reductions in areas such as hotel staffing and services and deferred investments in facilities have manifested in lower satisfaction scores in these areas in 2010. The economy segment, however, has demonstrated improvement in the areas of guest room; facilities and services; and costs and fees.

“When the industry begins to recover and occupancy and room rates increase, the positive halo effect from lower costs and fees will wear off and reveal deficiencies in services and facilities even more starkly,” said Stuart Greif, vice president and general manager of the global travel and hospitality practice at J.D. Power and Associates. “It will be critically important for hoteliers to make catch-up investments to improve the guest experience as the market improves. Understandably, hoteliers will want to hold off on increasing costs until absolutely necessary. Those hoteliers that best manage the balance stand to benefit, while those that do not respond quickly enough risk losing more than the satisfaction of their guests–they risk losing guests to competitors.”
Upper Upscale Segment

Steigenberger Hotels and Resorts ranks highest in the upper upscale segment for a third consecutive year, performing particularly well in six of the seven measures that drive overall satisfaction: check in/check out; guest room; hotel facilities; food and beverage; hotel services; and costs and fees. Maritim Hotels and Sheraton Hotels & Resorts, respectively, follow in the segment rankings. Maritim Hotels performs particularly well in the reservations measure.
Upscale Segment

Among upscale hotel brands, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts ranks highest in guest satisfaction for a second consecutive year and performs particularly well in five of the seven measures: check-in/check-out; guest room; food and beverage; hotel services; and hotel facilities. Following in the segment rankings are Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts and Iberostar Hotels & Resorts, respectively. Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts performs particularly well in the reservations measure, while Iberostar Hotels & Resorts performs well in the cost and fees measure.
Mid-Scale Full Service Segment

Improving from seventh rank position in 2009, Scandic ranks highest in guest satisfaction in the mid-scale full service segment. Scandic performs particularly well in two measures: check-in/check-out and hotel services. Best Western and Park Inn follow in the segment rankings, in a tie. Best Western performs particularly well in the food and beverage measure, while Park Inn performs well in the cost and fees measure.
Economy Segment

In the economy segment, Premier Inn ranks highest for a third consecutive year and performs particularly well in six of the seven measures: reservations; check-in/check-out; guest room; food and beverage; hotel facilities; and costs and fees. B&B Hôtels and Comfort Inn, respectively, follow in the segment rankings. B&B Hôtels performs particularly well in the reservations and hotel services measures.

The study finds that the availability of Internet service at hotel properties has become increasingly important to guest loyalty and advocacy rates. Hotel guest usage of Internet services has more than doubled during the past five years, from 17 percent in 2005 to 36 percent in 2010. When guests experience a problem with the Internet connection at their hotel, their likelihood to return to the property and to recommend the brand to others decline by approximately one-half, on average.

“Hotel guests expect Internet connections to be a staple of their hotel room—just as they would expect toiletries, a television and hot water,” said Mark Schwartz, director of the global hospitality and travel practice at J.D. Power and Associates. “Hoteliers that are unable to reliably deliver this service risk losing business.”

The study also includes the following key findings:

*    Among hotel guests who pay extra for Internet connectivity, satisfaction with cost and fees averages nearly 40 points lower than among customers for whom Internet service was included with their room rate.
*    When hotel guests have positive interactions with hotel staff, each interaction increases overall satisfaction by 27 points, on average. In addition, each positive staff interaction increases customer advocacy and loyalty rates by an average of seven percentage points.
*    Guests of luxury hotel properties have the highest rates of hotel staff interaction, averaging three interactions per stay. In contrast, guests of economy hotels experience 1.4 interactions per stay, on average.

The 2010 European Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study is based on responses from more than 14,000 guests who stayed at a hotel in Europe between July and September. The study was fielded between August and September.

Best Hotels in Italy

2010-10-27T11:36:00.000-07:00

There's something about Italy which cannot be described in words and sketched in your imagination. No book, no well-researched article and not even a full documented program on the Travel & living channel can do the justice to the beauty of Italy. One has to actually fly off to Italy to gasp! at its splendors and spectacular views. No wonder, the Italian wedding of Tom Cruise and George Clooney's eye-popping villa in Italy, justifies that this European country can make tourists go weak on their knees. Popular Italian cities like Venice, Florence, Rome and Tuscany offers spectrum of attractions. Being one of the world's most sought after tourist destinations, Italy welcomes flurry of tourists every year in its best hotels.

The best hotels in Italy offer premium accommodation to the enthusiastic travelers and make their travel trip in Italy, a pleasant experience. We have short listed some of the best hotels in Italy-

Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay
Taormina, Sicily, Italy

Grand Hotel Atlantis Bay was built in 1960 and recently went under the renovation to match up the classic luxury standards. There are total 8 suites and all the rooms are fully furnished and spangled with necessary amenities to make the guest's stay comfortable and luxurious. Air-conditioned rooms, mini-bar, color TV with satellite, hair dryer, wi-fi, hotel bar, discreet cocktails and musical notes played by the pianist at the background are some of the comforting amenities that guests can always look forward to enjoy here.

Aldrovandi Palace 5 stars luxury
Rome, Italy

Located in the historic area of the historic Rome, between the Villa Borghese Gardens and the Borghese Gallery, The Aldrovandi Palace Hotel is a graceful 19th century residence which is a privately managed grand hotel. Furnished in accordance with the 19th century splendor, the hotel features authentic pieces of antique furniture and luxurious fabrics. Rooms are air conditioned with needful amenities and give delightful views. The hotel boasts eight magnificent conference and banquet halls for its business travelers.

Hotel Splendide Royal Rome
Rome, Italy

Luxurious, regal and colossal defines the worth of Hotel Splendide Royal in Rome. It is a luxury five star hotel, which was a 19th century palace remodeled into a luxury hotel. Spacious architecture, richness in style, immaculate interiors and world class amenities adds a lot of grandeur to this hotel's name, which convinces travelers to opt this place for their stay. The hotel offers premium accommodation in its 52 rooms including 17 suites.

Villa La Massa
Florence-Candeli, FI, Italy

Step into the fascinating 16th century's Medicean Villa La Massa and you know premium luxury awaits you. The Villa La Massa was turned into a luxury hotel in 1948 and offers lodging space in its 37 rooms including 10 suites to repose and retreat.

Grand Hotel Quisisana
Capri (Napoli)

The Grand Hotel Quisisana is a five star luxury and with its top-notch facilities, it joins the list of best hotels in Italy. Originally a sanatorium built in 1845 by Scottish doctor George Clark- The Quisisana is a symbol of Capri and has total 150 rooms, including suites and junior suites. The hotel's facilities include a gym, massage, sauna, Turkish and whirlpool baths, open air pool, a cozy indoor one, and two tennis courts.

Half board rate Europe: Breakfast & Dinner

2010-10-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Europe Playa Marina Hotel offers 159 rooms, all recently renovated which are distributed on 6 floors divided into two wings of the hotel; all with sea views to Mallocar bay or the calas. All the rooms are similarly decorated, keeping the Mediterranean style with warm colors and comfortable furniture. Each one have air-conditioning, mini bar, satellite TV, a large closet with safety deposit box, a direct line telephone and a complete bathroom with hairdryer, amenities, bathtub, bidet and huge mirror. 148 are double room with a twin bed, sofa bed for one and a dressing table with mirror, and a balcony with sea views. 11 are Junior Suites, with large living rooms which are well furnished with a sofa bed for two. Separated from the living room, the main room offers a twin bed, complete bathroom and a large balcony to enjoy spectacular sea views.

Hotels in Moscow: 3900 rooms in development

2010-10-27T03:51:00.000-07:00

In Moscow in the next couple of years will appear at least 3,900 new hotel rooms. This number is mentioned in the projects of new hotels to be built or already under construction in the Russian capital.

According to the report of the American marketing agency STR Global, hotels in Moscow on the projected number of rooms occupy third place in Europe. Among recent high-profile projects in the hotel market in Moscow is hotel complex at Vnukovo airport, which will be created within the program of modernizing the airport.

First place in the ranking of STR Global, this time won London hotels. Capital of the United Kingdom, which in 2012 will host the Olympics, shows one of the highest rates of building hotels in the world. Already, the number of hotel rooms in London that are either just designed, or are actively being built, according to STR Global is more than 9700. Second place is occupied by the German capital Berlin. In Berlin, the total number of hotel rooms in development is amounted to 4.469.

Global hotel market is still far from stability, despite optimistic forecasts of several hotel chains and an increase in construction of hotels in China and India. Hotels in Europe show a decline that is evidenced by the policies of many large European hotel chains. Thus, the giant Accor had to get rid of much of its European portfolio in order to carry out large-scale expansion in the markets of Southeast Asia and India.

In the Old World, perhaps, only Britain can be called a rapidly growing hotel market. The report of STR Global provides for the figures of more than 28,000 designed hotel rooms. The report says that 10,000 hotel rooms in Britain are in varying degrees of construction. In total in Europe STR Global counted more than 120,000 hotel rooms that are either planned or under construction.

Hyatt, Carlson sign hotel deals in India, China

2010-10-26T23:47:00.001-07:00

Hyatt Hotels Corp and Carlson on Wednesday unveiled plans to expand their Asian hotels businesses, showing that hoteliers are continuing to grow in India and China as the United States and Europe recover from the financial crisis.

Hyatt said it has 11 new hotel management agreements in China, doubling its total number of contracts there to 22. Travel and hospitality company Carlson said it will open eight hotels in India this year and plans to add at least another 15 in 2011.Lodging companies like these emerging markets where potential demand for hotel rooms outstrips supply.

About a quarter of Hyatt's hotels are outside North America, and it runs 17 hotels in China. It said the new agreements are for properties in growing Chinese cities like Dalian, Qingdao and Wenzhou.

The company said four China hotels Park Hyatt Ningbo, Hyatt Regency Jinan, Hyatt Regency Guiyang and Hyatt Regency Qingdao are slated to open in 2011, with an additional nine properties expected to open in 2012.

Privately held Carlson, which operates Radisson and Country Inns & Suites by Carlson, said it plans to have more than 100 hotels in operation in India by 2015.

Properties expected to open this year include the 178-room Radisson Hotel New Delhi Paschim Vihar, the 120-room Radisson Hotel Rudrapur and the 73-room Country Inn & Suites Gurgaon Sector 12.

Carlson operates about 1,075 hotels worldwide. Hyatt, which went public last year, has a portfolio of 445 properties, with more located in China than any other country except the United States.

Top Tourist Destination in Vietnam

2010-10-20T22:25:00.000-07:00

Vietnam is one of the most popular of all tourist destinations, with a loyal following of regular returning visitors. The journey through the full length of the country is particularly popular, and the Mekong river trips are famous.

Vietnam is also one of the oldest, most diverse cultural mixes in Asia. Vietnam has a fascinating 2700 year history which has shaped its character. Every part of Vietnam has an incredible story to tell.

Many of Vietnam’s regular visitors have their favorite places, tours and journeys. It’s that sort of place, a preferred destination. Some people even do bicycle tours of the whole country, on a regular basis.

Luxury hotels in Vietnam have helped promote its tourism internationally, and have created a high standard of service and amenities. Resort accommodation of various kinds are also of a very high standard. In Vietnam there’s an endless choice of incredible beach resorts and the equally stunning mountain and inland hostels.

Hanoi

Hanoi is now a modern, bustling city with excellent accommodation, luxury hotels and resorts. That appearance is slightly misleading. It’s also an ancient city, and has a history that predates many Western nations. Hanoi tour packages are creative and imaginative and do justice to the past and the present. (Also check out the Ha Long Bay tours from Hanoi. Ha Long Bay is another gem in Vietnam’s north.)

Danang

Danang is another of the older cities in Vietnam in the central part of the country, and it’s something special. Danang has both incredible beaches and a backdrop of mountain and an inland area which is a trip in itself. Resorts in Danang are world class, and it’s a good place to base yourself for exploring Vietnam.

Not to be missed are the Marble Mountains, a place near Danang, an area of five marble and limestone mountains named after the traditional elements, fire, air, earth, water and wood. It’s also the home of brilliant sculpture, and if you’re looking for value you’ll find it there.

Hoi An

Just south of Danang is Hoi An. This place looks like it’s part of China, and its cultural history includes Chinese, Cham, and the Sa Huynh (Yellow Sand) people. This was part of the Champa Empire, early Vietnam’s southern neighbor.Hoi An, like Danang, has excellent resorts. This is a very peaceful place, with both modern facilities and a traditional environment.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, the old southern capital, has an astonishing history. It shows with every step through the city. The architecture, a mix of French colonial and modern, with an always interesting overlay of the indelible Vietnamese characteristics, is a tour of itself.

The Mekong

This is also the Mekong delta zone, where you can find the popular Mekong River with the big, famous, and irresistibly likeable riverboats. The giant Mekong River is justly famous for its own culture, a true international river running through six countries with a culture dating back for millennia.

Vietnam is truly loved by its regular visitors with superb resort accommodation and facilities. One trip there, and you’ll see why.

Top Tourist Destination in Oman

2010-10-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

Oman is a unique, vibrant and exciting place. It’s one of the lesser known jewels of world travel, with a combination of wild natural environments and ancient and modern human history which could fill a library. The accommodation, resorts and hotels in Oman are excellent, and in many cases brand new. It’s becoming a tourist haven, and rightly so.

Things to do

This is a country for the true traveler-explorer. If you’re the adventurous type who also doesn’t mind having some luxury hotels and resorts handy, Oman has everything you could want. You can spend a long time here, just enjoying yourself. Decide what you want, then do it.

Places to go

Middle East fans will tell you that it’s like exploring a new world. That’s a pretty good description of the experience. Oman is the sort of place where even just planning the trip is fun.

Sohar

Sohar is in the north, on the coast. It’s the classic Arabian peninsula scene, a dazzling desert and a blue sea. Sohar is a very modern city, highly developed, but retaining the elegance of the true Gulf cultures. The history of this area goes back 5000 years! It’s the sort of place where you really want to go sight seeing, and checking out the incredible mix of the very old and the ultra modern.

Masirah

If you want elegance, unspoiled beaches and great resort accommodation in the middle of a wildlife reserve, you need to see Masirah Island. This is a true “desert island”, beautiful, peaceful, and the sort of place where a holiday really feels like a holiday. You can go sailing on ancient seas, or just lap up the comfort, food and tranquility to your heart’s desire. This is the sort of resort island where you simply have no choice but to enjoy having the time of your life.

Ancient Oman

Oman is definitely a must see place for the culture enthusiasts. The history of Oman becomes more incredible the more you find out about it. Oman was part of the Frankincense Route, a sort of latter day version of the Silk Road. Evidence of human habitation dates back thousands of years. There are ancient forts, cave buildings, and museums full of items that have had archaeologists flocking to Oman for a century or more.

The Castles of Oman

Oman’s many castles are justly famous. They’re true representatives of their times in history, and as places to visit, they’re breathtaking. Oman’s castles are the real thing, the story of the region in its most unambiguous form. These castles are the living proof of the real story of the Middle East.One of Oman’s castles, Nakhl Castle, is so old that it’s believed to be pre-Islamic, over 1000 years old. This is a big, businesslike military fortification, remodeled over centuries, with all the trappings of The Arabian Nights.

Put all these places together, and you’ll find you’ve created one of the best holidays you’ve ever had.

Top Tourist Destination in Kuwait

2010-10-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Kuwait’s recent history has obscured the fact that this ancient culture is a part of the real Arabia, and that the country retains strong links to its origins. This is a unique part of the world, where ancient and modern cultures and concepts meet on a daily basis. Kuwait itself is unique, with 60% of the inhabitants foreigners, and Kuwait City the main urban area of the nation.

Kuwait is extraordinary. There are so many places to explore that it really does take some time to even figure out where to go first. The cosmopolitan nature of the place and the ultra modern city belie the hidden treasures of the country and the natural environment. Hotels in Kuwait and luxury accommodation are synonymous. This is a place where you can really feel like you’re on holiday. There are so many attractions in Kuwait. These are a selection of some of the famous attractions:

Kuwait City

Kuwait City is the obvious major area for exploration. This isn’t a big place, but there’s a lot of fascinating things to see and do. In this area you will find markets galore, beaches, elegant architecture, and the genuine Kuwaiti culture. Kuwait City and the surrounds are very well organized for getting around. You can travel easily and comfortably, sampling the many different charms of the city. Most travelers take their time, exploring each of the Kuwait City’s multifaceted and fascinating districts.

Failaka Island

Failaka Island is the most popular tourist destination in Kuwait. This is another of the Middle East’s heirlooms. It was inhabited during the Stone Age. The ancient Greeks settled there. It was an ideal trading port for trade between Persia and the western Middle East.

National Museum and cultural heritage sites

Kuwait’s heritage is long, and it’s a true revelation to see how far back the region’s history goes. The National Museum of Kuwait, Bayt Al Badr and Sadu House are three must see sites for cultural interest. These three sites embody the painstakingly saved history of Kuwait, including the National Museum’s pieces which survived the recent destruction by the Iraqi invasion. Bayt Al Badr is a time capsule reflecting the traditional lives of the Kuwaitis. Sadu House is dedicated to traditional Bedouin Sadu weaving, the basis of the creation of traditional desert fabrics.

Sharq Mall

Tourism and shopping go together, and Kuwait has a lot of good shopping. Sharq Mall is Kuwait’s best known upmarket mall, a huge places with many different types of store.

Islands water sports and yachting

For a desert country, Kuwait has a lot of its fun based on the sea and luxury accommodation to match. Kuwait’s islands form ocean the backdrop for a range of water sports including:

Water-skiingJet skiingWindsurfingPower boatingYachtingScuba divingDivingIsland trips and picnic outingsFishing

Kuwait is the sort of place where you can pick a dozen things to do in a day. All of these incredible places to see and things to do are literally within half an hour of your hotel.

Top Tourist Destination in Saudi Arabia

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Madain Saleh
Like in nearby Jordan, the Arab tribal people known as the Nabataeans are believed to be the ones who have left structures of ancient cities, in this case at Madain Saleh, an important southern city of the Nabataean Kingdom. Like at their capital of Petra in modern day Jordan, the Nabataeans created tombs by carving them out of the hillside. Indeed 131 tombs remain, in impressively good condition. Sanctuaries and religious structures were also carved from the rock face. These peoples mastered the art of rain and springwater collection for the dry season, making Madain Saleh an ancient oasis. Madain Saleh (City of Saleh), also known as Al-Hijr (“rocky place” in Arabic), was annexed by the Roman Empire in the early 2nd century AD. It formed a part of trade routes, until these moved to the Red Sea, with the local population also deserting this town. This may be a major reason why Madain Saleh has been left so well maintained. This impressive range of ancient structures sit surrounded by golden sand dunes, on the edges of Wadi Hanifa, a narrow valley. Madain Saleh was registered in UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 2008, becoming Saudi Arabia’s first World Heritage Site.

Ad-Diriyah
Beautiful desert sand coloured buildings or deep reddish brown walled remains greet the visitor at Ad-Diriyah. This settlement is believed to have been founded in the 15th century AD. Several villages later consolidated as Ad-Diriyah, the original home of the Saudi Royal family, and became an important point on pilgrimage routes. Revival of Islam in the area increased the town’s importance around the 18th century as scholars and merchants were drawn to the area. Ad-Diriyah became the centre of power for a large part of the Arabian peninsula. Some of the palaces have been beautifully restored, contrasting with the weathered walls of other structures that capture the historic feel of the area. After the Saudi conquest of Mecca and Medina the retaliating Ottomans attacked and destroyed much of Ad-Diriyah, in the Ottoman-Saudi war of 1811-1818. The capital later moved to Riyadh. The Saudi government founded the new town of Ad Diriyah in the 1970s, which lies in close proximity to this ancient town.

Jeddah
Jeddah is both a modern city, and Saudi Arabia’s second largest, and a historic city from ancient times. Historic Jeddah is housed within this modern city of 3.4 million. Over recent decades, local authorities have worked to preserve many of the buildings in Jeddah’s historic precinct. Ottoman art and Arabic designs are in evidence. Enchanting narrow laneways were designed as such, to provide shade and block out much of the sun’s heat. A bustling modern city has sprung up around the old town, so one can mix a bit of bargain hunting in the old souks with upmarket boutique shopping on fashionable Tahlia Street. Jeddah is also situated on the Red Sea, making it a popular retreat for Saudis seeking a retreat from the desert heat. Jeddah also gives access to Red Sea marine life and offshore coral reefs.

Top Tourist Destination in Malaysia

2010-10-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Malaysia is one of the most diverse nations in the world, physically and socially. Physically, it’s comprised of two quite different major land masses, and a large number of unique islands. It’s one of the world’s oldest multicultural societies, with a rich history of Chinese, Indian, and Malay cultures blended into one.

Malaysia has boomed in recent times, developing a modern nation from a colonial past. This is one of the world’s great ancient and modern trade route countries, with resort accommodation and luxury hotels catering for the business community as well as the tourist industry.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the capital and the showpiece of modern Malaysia. The Malaysians are justly proud of this big modern city, largely developed after the colonial period. “KL” is the usual start point for a Malaysian holiday, and if you want to start off with a real eye opener, a good look around Kuala Lumpur
will reward you.

The sights and contrasts of Kuala Lumpur are unforgettable. Near the famous Petronas Towers are still some reminders of the past. Malaysia’s diverse mix of cultures also provides a huge range of sights and sounds, including Chinatown, Putrajaya, Little India, and even religious caves.

There are many beautiful parks and gardens in the Lake Gardens, a favorite place of the British colonial social set in Kuala Lumpur. Near the giant Petronas Towers, a tiny deer, the size of a house cat, called a mousedeer or “kancil”, lives protected. The 20 hectare Kuala Lumpur Bird Park contains real birds of paradise. There’s even a Butterfly Garden, with 120 species.

Sabah

Sabah is a wonderland, with everything including the island which hosted the first “Survivor” TV show. There’s a world packed into this place, including a choice of fabulous beaches, and truly unique shopping on Gaya Street Sunday Markets, and that’s all practically within sight of your hotel. The famous orangutans and the rest of the natural environment aren’t far away, either. You can see why so many people love to explore Sabah’s green paradise.

Gunung Mulu (Sarawak)

The World Heritage Gunung Mulu Caves in Sarawak are the world’s longest. These caves are the true caver’s sort of place. The cave system is so complex that even the website needs 4 different links to regional caves to provide pictures of it. The Southern Hills, Hidden Valley, Gunung Api and Gunung Benarat caves are also set in some fantastically beautiful scenery, typical of Sarawak’s diverse natural world.

Pahang

Pahang State could have been designed as a tourist resort. It has brilliant beaches, offshore islands, dazzling resort accommodation, a national park and a wildlife reserve, mountains, forests, and that’s just in one sentence. Pahang’s assets are stunning. The South China Sea on its coast has hypnotized visitors for centuries with its fabulous beauty. Pahang is also 48% forest, and a mere 11% is urban. Aesthetically, that’s good news for any tourist, a place where you can really go on holiday from the rat race.

Malaysia contains a truly surprising combination of tourist attractions. The country is unique in its range of sites, activities, and the best in tourist luxuries.

Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur is the capital and the showpiece of modern Malaysia. The Malaysians are justly proud of this big modern city, largely developed after the colonial period. “KL” is the usual start point for a Malaysian holiday, and if you want to start off with a real eye opener, a good look around Kuala Lumpur
will reward you.

Sabah Sabah is a wonderland, with everything including the island which hosted the first “Survivor” TV show. There’s a world packed into this place, including a choice of fabulous beaches, and truly unique shopping on Gaya Street Sunday Markets, and that’s all practically within sight of your hotel. The famous orangutans and the rest of the natural environment aren’t far away, either. You can see why so many people love to explore Sabah’s green paradise.

Gunung Mulu (Sarawak)

Pahang Pahang State could have been designed as a tourist resort. It has brilliant beaches, offshore islands, dazzling resort accommodation, a national park and a wildlife reserve, mountains, forests, and that’s just in one sentence. Pahang’s assets are stunning. The South China Sea on its coast has hypnotized visitors for centuries with its fabulous beauty. Pahang is also 48% forest, and a mere 11% is urban. Aesthetically, that’s good news for any tourist, a place where you can really go on holiday from the rat race.

Top Tourist Destination in Indonesia

2010-10-20T01:16:00.000-07:00

Indonesia is the world’s biggest archipelago, containing thousands of islands. The country is a collection of many different local places of interest. Tourism in Indonesia is highly developed, including a wide range of tourist destinations, and excellent luxury hotels and hotel packages.

The selection of places to visit is vast, including many fascinating and unique sites and areas of interest. Indonesia is a big place, and the tourist is confronted with infinite possibilities of combinations of places to see and things to do.

This is a selection of five of the best and most dazzling of Indonesia’s tourist paradises:

Java

Java is the main island of Indonesia, in terms of population and development. It’s also one of the most unusual tourist destinations in the world. There are some extraordinary things to see in Java:

Borobodur Temple, the ancient Buddhist Mahayana monument. This is one of the great classics of Buddhist art, with no less than 504 Buddha statues and 2,672 relief panels.

Prambanan Temple, the Hindu Temple near Yogyakarta, a masterpiece of Hindu workmanship 47 metres tall, the equal of its Indian equivalents.

At the western tip of Java is the volcano Anak Krakatau, the “Child of Krakatoa”.

Sumatra

Sumatra is Indonesia’s big western island. It’s a very diverse place with many different environments and a priceless wildlife heritage which trying hard to survive the strain of modern times. Sumatra retains much of its ancient heritage and culture. It’s common to see ancient ways of life and fishing boats next to new four wheel drives and sleek modern power boats.

Bali

Bali, one of the world’s legendary tourist destinations, is the global traveler’s classic must see destination. Bali resorts are famous for their high quality, particularly in the Nusa Dua and Jimbaran areas of the island.

People don’t just “like” Bali, they love it. Each beach and resort has its own admirers, and the regular visitors come back many times. Bali’s reputation is based on a mix of its natural beauty, the fabulous holiday lifestyle, and a personal affinity. Everyone has “their” personal Bali. It’s one of the few places in the world where tourists care as much as locals about preserving the natural charm of the region.

Kalimantan

Kalimantan, formerly known as Borneo, is the big northern island, a wild area famous in colonial times for its wild jungles and their fierce inhabitants, the Dayaks. This is a truly incredible, magical place. You can see orangutans in their natural environment, go on river cruises up wild rivers, trek through one of the world’s great jungles, and see a real traditional longhouse and the famous Dayak dragon.

Sulawesi

Sulawesi is the large, island with four big peninsulas east of Kalimantan. The island is divided into North Sulawesi and South Sulawesi. This island is famous for its diving experiences. Sulawesi has a range of marine environments, including beautiful beaches. Inland, it has fabulous Lake Linow, and an active volcano, Mt. Soputan.

Indonesian holidays combine all the best elements of tourism; Excitement, exotic places, and real luxury.

Top Tourist Destination in Australia

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Australia has a fabulous fun filled lifestyle, and a tremendous variety of places to see and things to do. Luxury hotels and resort accommodation are excellent, and you can get great deals all year round.

The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is a stunningly beautiful, almost addictive place. Its great reputation is based on the fact that tourists (and locals) can’t get enough of its endlessly fascinating moods and brilliant, unforgettable water worlds. It’s the Louvre of the ocean, the Sistine Chapel of the sea.

Sydney

Sydney is a big bustling city with an energy and vitality you can only find in a truly cosmopolitan culture. Sydney’s famous attractions are only part of the story.

The city itself has many features within walking distance of a city hotel:

The Harbor and Circular QuayChinatownThe Chinese GardenThe RocksDarling HarborThe Australian MuseumThe New South Wales Art Gallery

Within an hour’s travel, you can also find some true Australian icons:

Bondi BeachManlyThe Balmain waterfront and BalmainGlebe marketsThe Blue MountainsThe Norman Lindsay GallerySydney’s two huge national parks, with the unique local fauna and flora

Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia’s second city, full of places of interest. Melbourne has a vibrant night life, art and cultural scene, with both local and international arts on show all the time.

Within an hour of the city you can find:

The Mornington PeninsulaThe Yarra ValleyPhillip IslandHealesville Wildlife SanctuaryNational Gallery of Victoria

The Outback

The Outback inland is often called “the real Australia”, because it’s untamed, and has defeated many attempts to settle it. The Outback has deserts, wetlands, mountain ranges, vast scrublands, grasslands, and a full spectrum of Australia’s wildlife.

You have a lot of choices in outback tours:

Explore Kakadu, the northern inland wetland paradiseTry your hand at gold or opal miningSay hello to 4 metre crocodiles (preferably from a safe distance)Explore the NullaborExplore Broken Hill, the original home of Australia’s mining industry

Uluru

Uluru (aka Ayers Rock) is a sacred site to the local Aboriginal people, and it has become a symbol of the Outback to the society as a whole. Uluru is also a place of extreme variety, an artist’s dream of aesthetics. This is the real inland, a tough country that must be respected as well as appreciated.

Daintree Forest

The Daintree Forest in Queensland dates from a time before the eucalypts and other modern Australian flora took over the continent. The Daintree is an incredibly beautiful place, in which every tree, bird and animal tells a story of ancient times.

Tasmania

Tasmania is best known for its wildlife, but it’s quite unlike the rest of Australia. This is an ancient, stunningly beautiful island which has also preserved some of the world’s natural treasures.

Australia is one of the easiest places in the world to tailor your trip the way you want it to be, with hotels in Australia pampering you all the way. Take a break and have a ball!

Most Tourist Attraction Places in China

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China’s rise as an economic super power has grabbed the world’s attention. Visitors are reminded that China has been a super power before, and its history and its present are awe-inspiring spectacles.

Everyone has their own personal China experience. The human history of China is no less impressive than its staggering array of historic sites, places to see and things to do. This is a country with more true stories than fiction.

China has a very well organized, efficient tourist industry, with luxury hotels and hotel packages throughout the country. There’s a vast array of fascinating places and experiences for visitors, including:

The Great Wall

The Great Wall, stretching across the north, stunned the first Europeans to see it. This is one of the real Wonders of the World, still astonishing as an engineering achievement.

The Yellow Mountains

The Yellow Mountains, or Huang Shan, are the mountains which drove China’s artists to centuries of work, trying to capture their beauty. These are archetypal Chinese landscape mountains, set in a pristine area in southern China.

Xian

Xian is the former capital of ancient China, and home of the famous Terracotta Warriors. This is where the early Silk Road trade began. It was one of the world’s first planned cities, an elegantly laid out masterpiece of architecture.

Shanghai

This huge, sprawling city sits on the ancient Pearl River’s mouth, a testimony to the rise of new China. Prepare to be dazzled, and also prepare to visit a city which takes second place to none for innovation and fascination. Resort accommodation in Shanghai is also the absolute top level of the industry, not to be missed.

The Three Gorges

The Three Gorges dam on the Yangtze is China’s biggest engineering project in recent times. As an achievement, it ranks alongside the Great Wall and the Grand Canal of ancient times.

The Silk Road

The Silk Road was a complex trading system which linked the ancient world. It was the original form of global trade. The Silk Road is now known to have been one of the primary means of the spread of ideas and culture throughout the world.

The Forbidden City

The Forbidden City is a huge complex in the heart of Beijing created to radiate power and to impress any onlooker. It still does, and visitors are treated to a site of pure Chinese culture which is unrivaled in its magnificence.

Yangtze

The Yangtze is one of the world’s biggest rivers, the river which helped to create and expand Chinese civilization. This is China’s ancient lifeline, providing food and transport for trade along the river.

Ming Tombs

The Ming Tombs are an avenue of monuments to the Ming Dynasty’s rulers. This was one of the all time greatest of China’s dynasties, and its legacy persists in all parts of Chinese life, a dearly loved part of the Chinese culture.

Summer Palace

The Summer Palace is a former residence of Kublai Khan. The Summer Palace contains a lot of the best and most fascinating aspects of Chinese art and design.

China never fails to impress visitors with its elegance, culture and natural scenery. China gets a lot of returning tourists, who just have to see more of one of the world’s true treasures.

Tourist Most Visited Places in Qatar

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Qatar, a modern Arab state with high per capita income is contrasted by its beautiful deserts and historical forts and castles. More compact than its neighbours, this Arab state is a handy size for exploring, when you venture out from your hotel Qatar.

Forts, Towers and Castles
Al-Zubarah fort lies on the North-West coast of Qatar. It was built in 1938 on ruins of an older castle, and was actually an important defence post of the Qatari Coast Guard until the mid 1980s. Nowadays it holds artifacts from the nearby Al Zubarah archaeological area.

Also in the North-West, Al Shagab Fort and Al Rekaya Fort are just two kilometres apart, and were built sometime between the 17th and 19th centuries. Both are rectangular with four corner towers in the typical desert fort style.

In central Doha, Al-Koot Fort is an interesting destination. Designed to keep an eye on potential thieves at neighbouring Souq Waqif, even the fort’s mosque was built with this aim in mind – it has no roof or walls!

Local Islands
Ishat Island is located in the south-east of the country. Northeast of here is Schra’o Island, a haven for egg laying turtles and multitudinous sea birds. Hammocks cap off the relaxed feel for tourists. The island is a three hour speedboat ride away from Doha.

Fishermen and scuba divers alike will be drawn to Haloul Island, with its coral reefs and accompanying coral fish. Closer to Doha, Al-Saflia Island and nearby Alia island are small tourist islands, and just 15 minutes from the capital by boat.

For those that get a bit queasy with boat rides, rest assured that Qatar also offers around 500 kilometres of sandy coastline on the mainland.

Doha
The heartbeat of Qatar is Doha, the capital of 1 million residents, and 80 percent of the entire nation’s population. The city’s name itself originates from the Arabic, meaning “The Sticky Tree”.

The Museum of Islamic Art does not just house moving artworks, it is an amazing artwork itself. Its’ cubelike figure, matched with Islamic style curved archways, cuts an imposing presence in Doha’s skyline, as it sits on the water of Doha Bay.

The Corniche, Doha’s waterfront promenade attracts walkers, runners and rollerbladers to its relaxing 7 kilometre path along the shorefront of the Arabian gulf. Grassy areas and palms make a pleasant spot to enjoy the scenery, and maybe a picnic.

Don’t miss “The Pearl”, an ambitious artificial island building project akin to Dubai’s manmade sandy islands and luxury housing.

Desert Safari
Qatar is home to an inland sea, in the middle of the desert. It makes a great day trip for a swim and picnic. Tour operators can get you there by 4WD. The journey itself is an adventure all it’s own, as you climb up and down 60 metre high sand dunes along your picturesque way. The inland sea itself, known as Khor Al Adaid, laps the shores of both Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Camels, sand skis or an overnight stay can add another dimension to your visit.

Top Tourist Destination in Oman

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Oman’s beautiful castles, ancient archaeological sites and the stunning Grand Mosque are complemented by its natural settings of beaches, wadis and deserts. Whether in Muscat or elsewhere, make your stay in any hotels Oman a comfortable one.

Castles

Al-Jalai fort, built by a Portuguese captain in the 16th century, occupies an eastern post on Muscat Harbour and overlooks Al-Alam Palace. It is twinned with Al-Mirani fort on a western post, both forts being used as defences during the Portuguese’s 60 year occupation of Oman, until their ousting by Omani forces in 1650.

Nakhal castle’s striking presence sits atop a rocky hill, and is believed to pre-date the Islamic era. Ar-Rustaq castle meanwhile, was added on to Persian ruins, and sits in an attractive valley of palms. Other Omani castles Sohar, Nizwa and Bahla are also worth visiting.

Archaeological sites

Excavation work has uncovered evidence of civilisations as old as several centuries BC. These discoveries dot the Omani landscape, with finds of jewellery, writings, statuettes and other artifacts attesting to the advanced nature of these societies. Samhuram and Qurum are two of many examples. Additionally, the 3000 year old bee-hive shaped stone Bat Tombs have been UNESCO listed.

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

Mountains provide the backdrop to the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, recently opened in 2001. The towering minarets that surround the main dome roofed structure dominate the skyline from the surrounding city. The main minaret stretches 91.5 metres into the atmosphere. After 6 years of construction, the mosque not only holds 20,000 worshippers, but also an Islamic studies centre, library, meeting and conference hall. Beautiful stone arches and arcades link the different sections of the mosque, and the paved courtyard covers a huge 24,400 square metres.

Beaches

Muscat is home to several popular beaches. Qurum beach offers picnic areas, shade under palm trees, and jet ski rental nearby. Marjan beach, also known as Turtle beach might give a lucky visitor a sighting of a feeding turtle. Coral and fish can otherwise be seen by snorkellers, close to the shore. Bandar Jissah also caters to snorkellers, and children, with a playground nearby. The rockpools here can be explored at low tide.

Located in the north of Oman, As-Sawadi island features beautiful white sand beaches, a range of watersports as well as diving, snorkelling and turtle watching.

The Dhofar coast features valuable inlets that provide sanctuary to 200 species of migratory birds and local fish species. The rich vegetation has also contributed to this area becoming a protected environmental region.

Wadis

Wadis, or valleys, that fill with water only after rainfall, are a feature of the Omani landscape. Wadi Darbat, in the Dhofar region is a popular example, with its waterfalls, green vegetation and caves making it a popular scenic spot. It is also vitally important in providing subterranean water supply to Dhofar.

Deserts

The Middle East is synonymous with deserts, and Oman is no exception. “The Empty Quarter” is the largest desert in the world, spanning not only Oman, but also Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Yemen. This huge region covering 1000km by 500km contains the world’s richest oil bearing area, but to this day remains unexplored in parts.

Fortune select Exotica Hotels wins World Luxury Awards

2010-10-19T05:26:00.000-07:00

Fortune hotels premium brand Fortune select Exotica a subsidiary of ITC has won the World Luxury Hotel Award on 8th October 2010. Winners and finalists were announced at the 2010 WLHA Gala Ceremony held at Dusit Thani Hia Hin,Thailand, on the 8th of October 2010. Luxury hotels from regions across the globe such as the Phillipines, India, Greece, Argentina, China, South Africa, Maldives, Cook Islands, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Mauritius, UAE, Italy, Thailand, Spain attended this years glamorous red-carpet event.Speaking on the occasion Mr. Alok Verma, GM, Fortune Select Exotica hotel, said "Fortune Select Exotica shines at hospitality industry's Oscars. For the first time , Fortune Select Exotica has been a proud contender in the hospitality industry's equivalent to the Oscars, recognizing the creme de la creme of the world's most exclusive establishments."

The World Luxury Hotel Awards, which has become a benchmark in exceptional achievement in hoteliering, has recognized Fortune Select Exotica, Navi Mumbai, India in their 2010 awards ceremony held in Bangkok.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards are accepted as the pinnacle of achievement for Luxury Hotels worldwide, which was established as a celebration of ultimate achievement in hotelier. It is about congratulating hotels that have taken the extra step & such differentiated themselves from "good hotels" to "exceptional hotels". The World Luxury Hotel Awards accounts for all categories in the Luxury Hotel industry. Award winners set the benchmark for luxury hotels in achieving recognition for their world class facilities and service excellence.

All WLHA entrants are put through a strict selection criteria, and those that are selected as nominees are instantly rewarded by being actively marketed and promoted on the WLHA website and in an e-brochure distributed to travel agents worldwide. Nominees in all categories are then invited to attend a red carpet gala awards ceremony, held in a different exotic location each year. Here, they are recognised and rewarded for their achievements with an evening of luxury accompanied by fine wine, cuisine and world-class entertainment.

The Awards are exclusively for Luxury Hotels, Lodges & Resorts and do not include any other areas of the travel industry. The past winners of this award represented a veritable who's who of international hospitality heavyweights, such as the UAE's Emirates Palace Hotel, Ireland's Solis Lough Eske Castle and Thailand's Royal Sheraton Hotel and Towers as well as Maldive's Coco Palm Bodo Hiti and Zambia's Royal Zambezi Lodge.

While world-class facilities, service excellence, exceptional food, attention to detail and effective management remain the staple requirements for a WLHA nomination, the awards account for all categories in the luxury hotel industry, allowing for a diverse mix of entrants, from luxury spa, coastal and casino hotels to game lodges, golf resorts and country houses.

Fortune Select Exotica is honored with this ward as its caters to the basic requirement of the award , being carefully crafted blend of aesthetics to cater to today’s discerning business traveler. The hotel is equipped with all possible necessities for incoming global travelers, for whom Navi Mumbai is fast becoming an important destination and is the future for this region. Designed on a grand scale, the hotel offers contemporary architecture and interiors making it the ultimate destination at Navi Mumbai.

Fortune Hotels chain is known for the excellence of its cuisine and Fortune Select Exotica, the first hotel under the ‘Fortune’ brand in Mumbai, also ensures that its cuisine lives up to this reputation.

Each year, luxury establishments can be nominated by guests, travel agents or tour operators. Establishments are also welcome to nominate themselves via the WLHA website (http://www.luxuryhotelawards.com) . Votes are then cast by a selected panel of 50 leading tour operators and travel industry consultants.

About Fortune Select Exotica Hotel (FSEH) , Navi Mumbai:
Fortune Select Exotica Hotel (FSEH) , Navi Mumbai is a premium brand under Fortune Park Hotels Ltd, a subsidiary of ITC Ltd, opened in joint venture with M/S Exotic Cuisines Private Limited (ECPL).It its inception in 2008,thehotel was awarded “World luxury Hotel Awards 2010” and is certified for “Enhancing Environment Performance”. Apart from their world class cuisines, this 85 room property includes 50 Standard Rooms, 19 Fortune Club Rooms, 8 Fortune Club Exotica Rooms and 8 Suites. Their signature brand "Nakshatra", a unique interactive Indian restaurant, offers a wide range of dinning experience and the 24 hours coffee shop "Zodiac" offers multi-cuisine. Fortune Select Exotica also offers state-of-the-art banquet facilities for exclusive events and well equipped business centre, designated pool section, play room, superbly equipped gymnasium overlooking the swimming pool, spa and salon with jacuzzi & sauna and also a bar at lobby level named "Nostradamus".

Tourist Destinations of Europe – a Dream Holiday

2010-10-19T02:25:00.000-07:00

Traveling this beautiful continent is dream of millions of people. The word beautiful is an under statement for the unexampled winsomeness of Europe. Europe has always been the most favored tourist destination in world. Further boost has been provided to Europe Tourism by the budget airlines. Europe tourism industry is flourishing at a great pace due to world famous tourist spots of Europe. In this fast world your weekend trip can land you at exotic beaches in Italy, at Windsor castle or serene banks of Rhine.

Europe has so much to offer that you will have to pre-plan well that which tourist destination you want to see when you are traveling Europe. Europe travel provides you a wide array of diversity, cosmopolitan cities combined with astonishing scenery. Europe has world famous tourist spots spread all over in countries like France, UK, Germany, Italy, Greece and Switzerland. This article will feed you with essential information on tourist places of Europe.

Getting in Europe- Major tourist spots:
The largest travel hubs of Europe include London, Paris, Frankfurt and Amsterdam which are further well connected to all other major tourist destinations of Europe. There are many budget airlines which offer very cheap flights to Europe. Main among these are AirBerlin, Centralwings, EeasyJet, HLX, Ryanair, SkyEurope Airlines and WizzAir. You can find the lowest fares on routes going to or from cities in the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, Ireland, Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary. All of such flights need to be booked on the internet in advance.

If you plan to travel from cities like Beijing, Vladivostok and Moscow then a wonderful option is travel by Rail trough world renowned Trans-Siberian railway. After reaching Europe you can travel around by air Or Eurail. Passes of Eurail are the best deal if you plan to travel extensively around Europe. Eurail is more beneficial than cheap plane tickets. Eurail connects all the tourist destinations of Europe in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and Turkey.

You can also take bus service which connects over 500 tourist destinations across Europe. Eurolines can take you any where from Sicily to Helsinki and from Casablanca to Moscow.

Tourist destinations in Europe:
There are numerous tourist destinations in Europe which can not be covered under one article so we will discuss these in a series of articles. Today we will talk about world famous mountain range- Magnificent Alps.

Alps:
Europe is a paradise for a person who loves mountains and is addicted to traveling snow covered high peaks. Alps provide a lot of variations as it is spread all across countries like France, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. You can choose your destination country as per your choice of culture, language and cuisine.

France is especially famous for its winter resorts situated in Alps. They are world famous for the high level of service and very fashionable hotels. Most famous place in Alps in France is Courchevel. It has become a symbol of the luxury and prestige. Chamonix is also famous place and is paradise for you if you are looking for best ski resorts. Moreover it is very cozy and world renowned.

Whole world knows that the best place to enjoy beauty of Alps is Switzerland. Its resorts are considered best in world but these are really expensive. For finding some affordable places you may need help of local people. The most prestigious resorts here are Zermatt, Saint Moritz, and Davos. Main cheaper resorts are Grindelwald and Gstaad. For more detailed information on traveling Europe follow our series of articles dedicated to Europe Tourism.

Marriott, Spanish hotel group launch brand

2010-10-18T21:52:00.000-07:00

Bethesda-based Marriott International said Thursday that it has joined with the Spanish lodging group AC Hotels to manage and franchise a new brand, AC by Marriott, across Europe and Latin America.

The deal dovetails with Marriott's ventures in China, where it expects to double the number of hotels it runs, and in India, where it plans to triple its roster.

The global expansion strategy follows the release of quarterly results that showed demand is picking up for corporate and leisure travel.

For the three months that ended Sept. 10, Marriott reported earnings of $83 million, or 22 cents a share. That's up from a loss of $466 million, or $1.31 a share, a year ago, when the company took a $502 million write-down on its time-share business.

Although revenue increased 7.2 percent, to $2.6 billion, for the quarter, the overall results fell short of analysts' expectations, as did the company's projections for the fourth quarter. That sent the hotel operator's stock, which was up 39 percent for the year, on a slide of nearly 6 percent Thursday, closing at $35.67.

Marriott, however, is bullish on the recovery of the beleaguered hotel industry. Nearly 90 percent of its hotels raised corporate room rates an average of 9 percent during the previous quarter, spurred by greater demand.

Revenue per available room - a key performance measure - rose 7.5 percent worldwide during the quarter. International room revenue, in particular, rose 12 percent.

The company sees it brightest prospects for growth outside the United States. Of the full-service hotels in the company pipeline, 70 percent are scheduled to open on foreign soil.

And that does not include the more than 90 existing AC hotels in Spain, Italy and Portugal that are slated to be rebranded once the deal closes at the end of the year.

"There is still tremendous development opportunities outside the U.S., and we see that continuing in Asia Pacific, and somewhat in Europe," Carl T. Berquist, executive vice president and chief financial officer at Marriott, said during a conference call with analysts.Marriott has been in China for 15 years, but most of its hotels are in major cities, leaving room for greater penetration in outlying markets. Marriott flags have flown in European markets for some time, but the company sees significant opportunities in brand conversions.

Brazil, Russia, India and China are primary targets of the hotel operator, Arne Sorenson, Marriott's president and chief operating officer, said during the call.

"Some of those investments may form something like the AC deal, where we partner with local companies," he said.

There has been a notable increase in travel in emerging markets, which, in some cases, are bereft of major lodging brands.

"In some markets, it's kind of the Wild West for expansion," said John Arabia, an analyst with Green Street, a real estate research firm. "That doesn't mean that it is easy or anyone can do it, but companies that have very long reach, stable operating platforms and significant capital, such as Marriott, are racing oversees."

Rounding up development financing, however, may have gotten tougher for the hotel operator. Loan terms are more stringent these days, repayment periods are shorter and developers are more often being asked for personal guarantees, Berquist said.

"As we have done in the past," he said, "we will use the strength of our balance sheet to grow our business."

Le Méridien Hotel Des Indes

2010-10-18T18:16:00.000-07:00

The Hotel des Indes has undergone a shrewd and sexy makeover that doesn't compromise the old-world atmosphere which has long been the source of this 1881 grand hotel's considerable charm. The top-to-bottom renovation succeeds through major improvements—a superb new health club with an indoor pool, sassy details such as room numbers that are displayed on a tulip vase beside the door, heated slate floors in bathrooms, and an opulent yet intimate restaurant. Afternoon tea brings in the local crème de la crème (diplomats and royals) to la crème de la crème: cream-filled pastries and tasty little sandwiches.

Hotel Le Mathurin Paris

2010-10-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

Hotel Le Mathurin Paris has 54 beautifully decorated rooms in leather and velvet, spacious and bright, filled with latest business technology. Hotel offers a fully equipped conference room, massage room, Jacuzzi and a private spa with a hammam. Staff of this four star hotel will provide a professional and relaxing atmosphere.

Facilities:

* Bar
* 24-Hour Front Desk
* Newspapers
* Non-Smoking Rooms
* Rooms/Facilities for Disabled Guests
* Family Rooms
* Elevator
* Airconditioning
* Safety Deposit Box
* Soundproofed Rooms
* Heating
* Luggage Storage
* All Public and Private spaces non-smoking.

Services:

* Breakfast in the Room
* Room Service
* Meeting/Banquet Facilities
* Laundry
* Dry Cleaning
* Ironing Service
* Shoe Shine
* Fax/Photocopying

Activities:

* Jacuzzi
* Spa & Wellness Centre
* Hammam

Terror Alert Issued In Europe: Concern for Stags Abroad

2010-10-18T10:31:00.000-07:00

The United States has issued a travel alert for Americans in Europe, warning about the possibility of an Al Qaeda attack. Possible targets include the Eiffel Tower, a hotel near Berlinís Brandenburg Gate and others in capital cities such as London, Paris and Berlin. Fairfield University has study abroad programs in each of these areas.

Fairfield has sent the students currently abroad in European nations the following email: ìThere has been a travel alert issued by the Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs. We would like to inform you of the latest travel alert, and take extra precaution when traveling to and within Europe. The warning is in effect till the end of January 2011.î A link is then provided to the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs.

The statement by the Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the ìpotential for terrorists to attack public transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure,î but does not get more specific than that.

Christopher Johnson, Director of International Programs at Fairfield said, ìThe safety and well-being of our students is paramount for us and the guidance of the U.S. State Department is an important part of our protocols. Because the alert is general in nature we are not giving guidance to avoid particular locations at this time.

President Obama reportedly met with his national security team members on Friday and Saturday before issuing the alert, apparently following the mantra that a vague alert is better than no alert. Nicholas Shapiero, White House spokesman, said that it was the State Department that decided to issue the alert, but only after President Obama insisted that they ìdo everything possible to disrupt this plot and protect the American people.î

Fairfield has taken more precaution regarding this alert than other schools with students abroad. Carolyn Spallutoí11 is currently studying abroad Rome, through the Trinity College program. She was emailed the same warning as the Fairfield students from Trinity and they added, ìto stay away from areas in Rome that are attractions for American tourists,î yet she has not heard from her home school, Amherst College.

She said that any other warnings that she has heard have been through word of mouth, for example ìthe boyfriend of one of my friends on this program is flying out to Italy this weekend, and apparently he got a call or email from the U.S. Embassy in Rome not to speak English in high-tourist areas or wear clothes with English writing.î

The United States is not the only country issuing the alert, as the British government also increased the threat of terrorism to ìhighî from their usual ìgeneral,î for their citizens abroad in France and Germany. Security for the Royal Family has also been heightened. Japan and Sweden issued warnings for their citizens traveling in Europe as well, and as early as Monday, travelers noticed the heightened security.

Sniffer dogs reportedly patrolled subways in Britain, paramilitary troops were seen patrolling the Eiffel Tower and mounted police were guarding famous churches in Paris.

FoxNews.com reports that Undersecretary of Management Patrick Kennedy says that ìWe are not, repeat not, advising Americans not to go to Europe.î It also reports that State Department spokeswoman Nicole Thomas said that the department is, ìarming Americans with information,î should they choose to travel abroad, leaving some Americans even more puzzled.

NYTimes.com reports that the information of alleged attacks first came from a German citizen of Afghan origin, Ahmed Sidiqi who was captured in July. Sidiqi told investigators he met with a high-level Al Qaeda operative in Pakistan, who told him Osama bin Laden wanted to attack Europe.

Officials also said that British residents of Pakistani background that were detained in Islamabad and Lahore in Pakistan had the same information.

NYTimes.com also reported that an official who did not wish to be identified said a stronger warning that would discourage Americans from traveling in Europe is not being considered at this time.

The alert extends into January 31st, 2011; just days after the Spring Semester Abroad students take off for their destinations. Kaitlyn Deviliní12 is heading to Germany for the spring semester, ìI hope this hype settles down,î she said. ìAnd as for my parents, weíll see if theyíll take more dramatic precautions as the time nears for me to leave,î she added.

ìIn our pre-departure orientation we stress the need to students to be vigilant about their surroundings, to monitor the US embassy and consulate websites for their countries, and to avoid crowds and large gatherings. For now we continue to monitor the information and will take action as the circumstances dictate,î said Johnson.

The Political Science Department and the International Studies Department did not have department statements to make on this matter, nor were individual comments made before deadline.

Europe - Traveler's Paradise!

2010-10-18T06:27:00.000-07:00

Planning a vacation in Europe? If so, you have picked the perfect destination for a memorable holiday. Europe is one place where you can experience an exciting mix of scenic beauty, wonderful locales, culture and rich heritage.

In spite of being the one of world's smallest continents, preceding only Australia, Europe is home to 45 different countries, all linguistically and culturally very diverse. Europe has a variety of climates, but most parts of the continent experience mild weather.

While planning your trip, it is essential for you to find out the best time to visit Europe. Weather-wise summer, especially June- July is the most popular time to visit. Most tourists flock to Europe during this season. Everything is particularly beautiful and the atmosphere is dazzling in this part of the year. The only flipside is that summer being the peak season, air fare and hotel rates skyrocket and you will see more tourists than locales at this time. Spring (April to early June) is known as the shoulder season (neither peak nor low season). Surprisingly this is perhaps the best time to visit Europe, as the weather is just right - warm days and cool nights, it is not as crowded as the summers and the air fares and hotel rates are reasonable.

Most part of the winter season, except Christmas time is considered low tourist season. Winters are chilly in most parts of Europe, while some places are severely cold. However if you don't mind the cold it is definitely worth visiting closer to Christmas, when most cities are lit up beautifully and there is a festive cheer all around. You can enjoy the Christmas markets, carnivals and festivals, attend cultural events, ski and indulge yourself in some yummy winter special food and mulled wine. Airlines offer special discounts on flights and hotels have special winter deals, making winter the perfect time to plan a budget vacation to Europe.

You can visit many new places in a relatively short span of time, even though they are in different countries, thanks to the fantastic train system (Euro rail) and the common currency. With a Euro rail pass you can travel on trains throughout Europe. Getting a Schengen visa simplifies your travel within Europe. Schengen visa is a tourist visa, which enables you to travel between 24 European countries which are registered in the common visa system and air, train and road travel between two Schengen countries is considered as a domestic trip. This includes countries like France, Spain, Greece, Italy, Germany, Austria, Sweden and many more.

Citea Tour Eiffel

2010-10-18T02:02:00.001-07:00

'Citea Paris Eiffel' is located in a quiet and residential district at 5 minutes walking distance from the 'Eiffel tower' and the river 'Seine', and is within proximity of the 'Andre Citroën Key' major commercial centres and the 'Porte de Versailles Exhibition Park'. Our residence offers you 26 furnished and air-conditionned flats spread over 7 storeys providing a friendly and functional space for working, eating and of course relaxing.

New Hampshire Things to Do

2010-09-21T09:03:00.000-07:00

Skiing & SnowboardingSkiing is the official state sport of New Hampshire, with snowboarding and other winter sports close behind. The northern third of the state is locally known as the “north country” and hosts a lot of winter skiing and snowboarding resorts and events, as well as snowmobile trails and, on the state's numerous lakes, ice fishing houses nicknamed “bobhouses”. There's something for skiers of all levels of ability, with six different mountains to choose from – Loon, Bretton Woods, Cannon, Cranmore, Waterville Valley and Wildcat Mountain – offering hundreds of pistes between them alongside thoroughly modern lift networks and ski schools. For the truly adventurous, there are countless opportunities for cross-country skiing, as well as ice climbing, snowshoeing and night tubing. Hiking, Mountaineering & Motorsports Hiking and mountaineering are popular outdoor pastimes in New Hampshire thanks to the warm summers the state enjoys. The White Mountains offer a great variety of trails designed to maximise enjoyment of the region's resplendent natural beauty, and make this area ideal for a walking holiday. There are also numerous mountain biking opportunities, with lifts available for the excessively steep stretches. Motorsports are also popular in New Hampshire with June seeing a motorcycle rally held in Weirs Beach, and the New Hampshire Motor Speedway hosting a variety of events including NASCAR and IndyCar championship competitions. Landmarks & CultureNo trip to New Hampshire is complete without a trip to the iconic and awe-inspiring Mount Washington, a 6288-foot peak from which it's possible to see all the way to the Atlantic and into Canada. The buildings at the peak – including an observatory, museum and viewing platform – are actually held down with chains, with older constructions having blown away over the years. A coal-fired steam train runs all the way up the mountain on a track constructed in 1869. In the past New Hampshire has played host and provided inspiration to artists such as the famous writer Henry David Thoreau and poet Robert Frost; the latter is celebrated by several sites including several farm homesteads on which he lived.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Stowe Things to Do

2010-09-21T05:03:00.000-07:00

SkiingMount Mansfield, the tallest of the Green Mountains and indeed the highest peak in Vermont, offers slopes suitable for skiers from intermediate to expert. Other slopes such as Spruce Peak are more appropriate for beginners and those lacking confidence. Each slope offers several trails so there's plenty of variety while on ski holidays in Stowe. Gondoliers service all of the main slopes (some of these impressive lifts are over a mile long) and the Mansfield summit experiences an annual 333 inches of snow. Skiers and snowboarders won't be disappointed by what Stowe has to offer. Hiking, Biking & ClimbingThere are numerous hiking facilities around Mt. Mansfield and the Smuggler’s Notch State Park, all of which are operated by the local Green Mountain Club. There is also a 5-mile long recreation trail, the Stowe Recreation Path, which was completed at the end of the 1980s and has received assorted awards and honours for its addition to the town. Areas of natural beauty in the surrounding area are conserved, including the stunning Wiessner Woods, and elsewhere there are plenty of picaresque sights including the waterfalls Moss Glen Falls and Bingham Falls, making this an ideal destination for a walking holiday. Mountain biking is also a popular pastime outside the winter months. As well as the many public trails there are also private trails at the Trapp Family Lodge (a commercial lodge set up by Austrian immigrants in the 1950s). Rock climb and ice climbing are also popular at various points of the year. Outdoor ActivitiesAs well as skiing, hiking and other pursuits, the resorts in Stowe offer a huge spa and wellness centre, an 18-hole golf course, tennis, fishing as well as numerous swimming holes around the area – some fed by waterfalls. Summer holidays and autumn holidays can be a wonderfully relaxing experience – after a morning exploring mountain trails why not stroll along the Stowe Recreational Path and soak in the sights the town has to offer? Cultural EventsThe previously mentioned Trapp Family Lodge regularly hosts the Vermont Mozart Festival in the summer, with fireworks concluding the festivities. As well as such spectacular annual events the village is home to a thriving arts community. Several museums, art galleries and performance spaces can be found around the town, and the local shops offer a variety of local art, jewellery and craft goods, whilst Vermont cuisine is on offer throughout the town's restaurants.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Porto Cervo Things to Do

2010-09-21T01:03:00.000-07:00

Boating and Yachting Porto Cervo is among the most famous destinations for yachting experts and enthusiasts seeking a yachting holiday. During the summer, events and races are put on by the town as part of the annual regatta, with the hundreds of yachts moored around the marina or entering and departing the port an impressive sight to behold. Whether you wish to visit to watch the races, stroll around the marina and admire the yachts and villas, or rub shoulders with celebrities, this is the perfect time to visit Porto Cervo and soak in its rich ambiance. Beaches For those who enjoy the simple pleasures of sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and other beach based pursuits, Porto Cervo offers a variety of rental services to enhance your beach holiday. With its electric-hued sea and fine white sand, the town displays a natural beauty alongside that of its sophistication and wealth; attractive inlets and small beaches are scattered along the coast. Great opportunities for windsurfers are also presented, with lovers of the sport visiting from all over Europe. Nearby Porto Pollo is particularly popular among windsurfers and is often the scene of international surfing events. DiningThe trend in Porto Cervo is towards high-class cuisine and away from traditional fare, although seafood and pasta are of course widespread. At the higher-end restaurants dishes like suckling pig, sea bass, octopus terrine and Carpaccio of tuna, salmon and sea bass are among the menu items available. Since you're likely to be paying a lot wherever you eat, be a discriminating customer and select the establishment which looks as though it really delivers the quality it charges for. NightlifeThe nightlife of Porto Cervo is among one of its most notable attractions, and is what sets it apart from other, similarly beautiful seaside destinations. Among its most exclusive venues is Billionaire, which as you'd expect from its swaggering name is thoroughly expensive and decadent. Attendees have included Hollywood actors, Formula 1 moguls, Italian footballers and TV stars, internationally renowned musicians and more. Elsewhere, more laid-back venues with mixed crowds and less exclusive policies are available, including regular bars and discos as well as outdoor clubs along the seafront which begin just after sunset and continue well into the night.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire

Sao Jorge Island Things To Do

2010-09-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Incredible Scenic HolidaysOne of the three 'Triangle' islands in the Azorean archipelago of Portugal, Sao Jorge is a long and thin island best known for its gorgeous scenery. Human habitation is mostly confined to the coastal areas, with the central areas of the island made up of tall cliffs and a line of volcanic cones stretching hundreds of metres above sea level. There is some variation around the island; the terrain is smoother on the east than the west, and the same is true of the southern and northern coasts. Assorted fajas, some the product of lava flows and others the result of collapsed cliffs, are scattered around the coasts of the island, with some of the larger specimens hosting settlements, villages and cultivated land. SightseeingSao Jorge Island boasts stunning scenery: the colourful hues of wild flowers, hollowed-out lava arches which form natural bridges, deep ravines which vanish into the sea, odd geological grottoes inhabited by wild pigeons, and streams that burst into waterfalls are just some of the sights to be enjoyed. The central peaks of the island are particularly impressive, especially the volcanic cones of which the largest, known as Pico de Esperanca, reaches an altitude of over 1,000m. Bird-watching & FishingSao Jorge, thanks to its numerous peaceful and secluded areas, is a popular destination for bird-watchers. Species such as buzzards, peregrines, heron and plover are known to root and hunt around the island. Sports fishermen and line divers will also be impressed at the diverse and colourful species of sealife that populates the island's waters. FestivalsSao Jorge holds a series of festivals throughout the year, most tied into the island's Catholic make-up and history. One such series of celebrations is the Espirito Santo, which occur every Sunday before Easter, culminating on the seventh Sunday. While there are processions to churches the festivals also involve the granting of alms for the poor and gatherings for dancing and conversation. Feasting, fireworks and “bullfighting on a rope” are also often features of festivals and celebrations on Sao Jorge. Scuba Diving The variety on offer to divers while on a diving holiday in Sao Jorge is almost awe-inspiring. With sandy, rocky and mixed seabeds, numerous caves and shipwrecks, the clear blue waters of the Portuguese coast and the diverse species found in the area, it's likely that every dive will offer its own unique sights and experiences – even to experienced divers.Email this to a friendClick here to send this page to a friendExtrasCar hire