Holiday Guides 2

Finding Better Prices For Expensive Travel Vacations

2008-02-25T22:21:00.001Z

Lets face it we all love to escape from the pressure and demands of our busy daily lives here in the 21st century. Whether it is for two days or two months the chance to 'drop out' and venture away to an exotic location somewhere in the world is irresistible. And, what's more, you don't have to pay ridiculous prices to enjoy an expensive travel vacation.

In many parts of the country we are hunkered down in snow and rain dreaming of a vacation paradise. We envision places where we can be pampered by 'servants' catering to our every need. This includes everything from umbrella adorned exotic tropical concoctions to personal guides who take us scuba diving in crystal clear, tropic oceans. Picture a horseback ride on endless white sand beaches. Imagine that you can let the child out and laugh to the splash of turquoise water, as well as feel the temperate breezes in their faces and the warmth of tropical sun on bare backs.

Expensive vacation packages often seem out of our reach. In lieu, we try to locate a travel channel or golf resort magazine that can point us to a blissful destination. We only dream of places that can quench our desires for escape. When able to pursue such a vacation, we sadly often find blacked out dates, overbooked resorts, or exorbitant fees to pay just to have the privilege to get away from it all.

Consider obtaining a membership through travel destination clubs that can give you unrestricted access to many destinations around the world. Many of these travel membership plans have no blackout dates or restricted weeks. This puts you in complete control of your next vacation spot. Whether you want to go to Hawaii in peak season or Cabo in fishing season, these memberships offer a service like no other.

As a member to such places, you generally have access anytime to top resort destinations. You will find it easy to book accommodations at many luxury resort destinations. You can even enjoy discounts on all the major cruise lines as well, depending on which membership you join.

Your best bet is to look for memberships that offer no annual dues or exchange fees. Also look out for restricted weeks and blackout dates. Avoiding these traps means you can have year-round access to the worlds top resorts in peak season. With companies competing for your business, you can find just the deals you are looking for.

When you obtain a membership, you basically get to take advantage of having your own travel professionals. These professionals know how to fulfill your specific requests including exact dates, unit sizes, and the number of travelers. This gives you complete freedom and total control to travel when and where you want. This prestigious service will be yours for a lifetime, if you choose.

If you are ready to escape this is your vehicle and your portal to that bliss you so desperately seek. Joining a travel club definitely has its advantages. Complete packages have become quite affordable over time. What are you waiting for?

Brad Hodges is President of BRAD HODGES ENTERPRISES a Global Internet Marketing Company specializing in Travel, Health and home business e-commerce.

For more information on this article please go to http://www.YourWorldGateway.com

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4 Days, Kenya Wildlife Camping Safaris - Lake Nakuru Maasai Mara

2008-02-24T19:51:00.001Z

Maasai Mara is Kenya's best game park, with the possibility of seeing all the big five and many other species of game. This is where the great wildebeest migration is a world spectacle.

DAY 1 - NAKURU

Pick up from your hotel by 0900hrs, we drive down the Escarpment via the floor of the Great Rift Valley, to the Lake Nakuru. Lunch followed by an extensive afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 2 - MAASAI MARA

Depart Lake Nakuru after breakfast and drive to Maasai Mara arriving by lunchtime. After lunch proceed on an afternoon game drive. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 3 - MAASAI MARA

From the camp, we explore the Mara region, packed with the elephant, zebra, rhino and all kinds of game through out the year with the spectacular wildebeest migration from Serengeti occurring mainly in July and August. Being at Maasai Mara is "as if you found yourself in the New York of the natural world according to some authorities". Indeed you have the best opportunity of seeing all the big five. Dinner and overnight camping.

DAY 4 - NAIROBI

Depart Camp and drive through the reserve viewing game as you proceed to the main Narok road. On reaching Narok, we halt to give you a chance to buy souvenirs, or just to have a cup of tea. Back to Nairobi by 5.00 p.m. Drop off at your hotel.

PRICE INCLUSIVE OF:

Transport in 7 seater Tour Van with pop up roof

Tour bus fitted with Hi-Fi radio

Accommodation at Camp

All park entrance fees

All Government taxes and levies

3 Meals a Day Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian

Game drives

One Litre Mineral water a day while on safari

Drivers Allowances

Cook Allowances

Airport Transfer

Mary Muchiri

Skyview of Africa Ltd

P.O. Box 872 - 00200

Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 20 3751672

Telfax +254 20 3751521

Email: safari@skyviewofafrica.com

Website: http://www.skyviewofafrica.com

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Santorini Sailing - Luxury Sunset And Daytime Cruises

2008-02-22T22:13:00.000Z

Greece is perfect for sailing holidays as with over 1,000 islands and many ports you have the opportunity to sail as long as you like and stop whenever you like. The weather is calm and the sea is safe therefore you need no much experience for the sailing holiday of your life. With sailing you can explore the most beautiful beaches, visit small uninhabited islands and stop for snorkelling in the most beautiful places.

While staying in Santorini you can plan an exciting day cruising with family or good friends to the volcanic islets of Nea and Palea Kameni or the island of Thirassia. Plan a romantic getaway for two to enjoy the amazing scenery of Santorini. Experience sailing services in Santorini and you will have an unforgettable holiday.

The brand new Caldera catamaran (lagoon 420) of Spiridakos sailing company will drive you towards the beautiful volcanic coast of Santorini and will satisfy your needs, as it provides all the facilities for the most demanding travellers. Caldera combines sailing performance with steadiness and security.

Escape from your daily routine and let your adventure begin on the luxury catamaran 'Caldera'. Enjoy a sailing vacation, a sunset cruise and a memorable holiday. Everyone from beginners to more experienced sailors can gain a positive experience from our services. The captain and the crew in the Caldera will make sure you have a safe and pleasant excursion.

Enjoy your Santorini sailing vacation with a selection of Greek delicious dishes from fresh seafood and meat to vegetables, fruit and local produced wine.

Plan your sailing vacation with Caldera catamaran and we promise you fantastic scenery, great laughs, unforgettable adventure and great food during your Santorini sunset cruises or your Santorini daytime cruises

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zenia_Porth
http://EzineArticles.com/?Santorini-Sailing---Luxury-Sunset-And-Daytime-Cruises&id=965606

Top Carnival Destinations

2008-02-21T19:48:00.000Z

Carnival is a festival season that marks the beginning of lent featuring parades, masquerades, balls, and for lots of people, a beach vacation. This year, most countries celebrate Carnival during the first week of February. So pack your bags and head out to some of the best destinations to celebrate Carnival.

Brazil

Brazil is the number 1 Carnival destination in the world. The Carnival in Brazil dates back to the 1720's when Portuguese immigrants arrived. Today, the Brazilian carnival is celebrated with parades featuring samba schools composed of thousands of members who create unique themes for their floats. The main parade in Brazil takes place at the Sambodromo, a parade route in Rio de Janeiro complete with bleachers on both sides.

Trinidad and Tobago

In Trinidad & Tobago, Carnival is a holiday that lasts over a month and ends in large celebrations in Port of Spain, capital of Trinidad, on the Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. The Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago features costumes, dance, music, competitions, rum, and partying (also referred to as fete-ing).

Ecuador

Carnival in Ecuador lasts a couple of weeks and is usually celebrated with water balloons, crazy string, flowers, fruit and more water. People in the coastal regions tend to celebrate Carnival by going to the beach and throwing water balloons to friends and sometimes unsuspecting victims. Don't be surprised if a water balloon hits you. Don't feel offended; it's just a game. Ecuador is a country full of surprises!

Mexico

In Mexico, the biggest Carnival festivities occur in Veracruz and Mazatlan where parades, costumes, music and dancing take place. The Mexican Carnival starts with the burning of effigies (Quema del Mal Humor) that symbolizes the burning of ill humor and marks the beginning of carefree days.

New Orleans

Mardi Gras is known around the world as one of the most exciting festivities in the US. The Carnival in New Orleans starts the weekend before Fat Tuesday (Mardi Gras) with parades, beads, parties, balls, hurricanes (the drinks, not the weather phenomenon) and more beads. The French Quarter becomes a big party center with people tossing beads left and right. The main streets become the destination for parade watchers who stand there to admire the beautifully crafted floats and receive beads in return.

Denisse Romero

For more amazing travel destinations and travel resources visit http://www.macquil.com . MacQuil.com is one of the leading study abroad and travel portals with free resources, advice, directories, videos and articles.

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Self Catering Cottages - Travellers Best Friend

2008-02-19T22:12:00.000Z

One of the innovations of modern times that is gaining huge popularity around the globe are self catering cottages. Laced with all sorts of comforts that can make anyone's holiday extremely enjoyable and a sweet memory, they welcome the tourists with open arms and expose them to a few days of calm and unhurried life. The biggest advantage of such cottages is that they can be availed at an extremely cost effective rate which ensures that almost every section of society can avail such a glorious service. Second big attraction of these cottages is their setting. Set in the calm backdrop of countryside they expose people to a quiet holiday away from the rush and run of city life. A perfect place to recharge the batteries and fill oneself with energy and vigour to take on life.

Another attraction of these cottages is that they provide their guests to enjoy their holiday in any which way they like. So much so that people are also allowed to cook their own meals here. Such a provision goes a long way in making the cottages so well like by people. Particularly by families who have small kids.

Self catering cottages are also on top of the popularity list of business units who find them to be just perfect for arranging their team building drills and official functions. The stay here is also utilised by these units to facilitate their most deserving employees. It encourages employees and ignites in them the wish to go all guns blazing to win the coveted prize.

With the way life is getting hectic with every passing day it is not difficult to conclude that the popularity of such cottages are bound to increase. And if the popularity that the Self catering cottages enjoy today is anything to go by, one can easily say that the coming days would be extremely rosy for these cottages.

Terry is a globe-trotter specialising in travel writing. Having toured all over Britain, he has a fair idea of the best resorts, self catering cottages, hotels, and other places of accommodation and entertainment, including self catering services in the British Isles. He has been using his vast knowledge of geography and languages to guide tourists and holiday-makers to enjoy their touring time.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Pinto
http://EzineArticles.com/?Self-Catering-Cottages---Travellers-Best-Friend&id=994671

Life in Beijing

2008-02-18T22:07:00.001Z

Beijing is the capital of China, a country with more than 5000 years of ancient history, and now Beijing is home to more than 14 million people. Beijing is considered to be the political, educational and cultural centre of China. Beijing offers an infinite amount of things to see and experience, and it is never too late to visit.

Chinese Cuisines

Being China's capital city, you can imagine Beijing has a lot to offer, including every kind of Chinese cuisine you can imagine. In Beijing, you can even sample regional Chinese cuisine, including those from Shanghai, Sichuan, Dongbei, as well as specialty cuisines that the 56 minority cultures has to offer and more. One very notable cuisine type everyone must try in Beijing is the very impressive 12 course Imperial meal! The best restaurants are situated in the CBD, the financial district and on main streets close to the embassies. You can also go ahead and try out all different sorts of Chinese food at Ghost Street ("gui jie").

Beijing Nightlife

As for nightlife, every 2 months there is a new grand opening for another huge club. There are clubs throughout the first ring to the sixth ring of Beijing city. Most foreigners like to go to Vics or Mix, situated at the Workers' Stadium.

Living Standards

Living standards in Beijing compared to the rest of China is considered expensive. However, in comparison to America, it is almost minimal. If you are looking for accommodation, you can contact PRC Study as they can help you find accommodation across China. Finding a place in China to stay can be a total disaster, as most landlords do not speak any English. PRC Study offers many different types of accommodations, and all are suited at student rates.

Living Expense

An average foreign student spends about 60-80RMB (~8-11 USD) a day on food and transportation. An average Chinese student spends about 40RMB (~5 USD) a day. Depending on your tastes for luxuries, there can be a huge diversity. With decent restaurants averaging to around 50RMB (~7 USD) per person, and DVD's for as low as 6RMB (~0.85 USD), you can splash the extra cash towards traveling around China.

China and Opportunities

The rapid growth of China's economy is attracting more and more multinational companies to come and invest. In fact, China's rapid economic growth is no threat to other countries, but an open door to more opportunities. After China's globalization, a forever increasing amount of foreigners are coming to China to learn Mandarin, as well as to work. Fully experience Beijing with the assistance of PRC Study to let your 5 senses indulge into a never ending experience.

To find out more about learning Mandarin, accommodation in China, traveling in China and/or working in China you can contact PRC Study

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Amit_Salkar
http://EzineArticles.com/?Life-in-Beijing&id=993657

Whitby's Nautical Heritage

2008-02-17T23:30:00.000Z

Whitby's nautical heritage runs deep in the town's blood, and everywhere you go there are reminders of this affiliation - from the dark passageway leading to the old and evocatively-named Old Smuggler café, nestled unexpectedly between two modern shops on Baxtergate - to the more obvious reminders in and around the town's harbour.

Whitby's first and last link with the sea was fishing - ever since its foundation, fishing has been a means of supplying the settlement with food, but over the years fishing and ship-building were to grow from subsistence and small-scale businesses to become major sources of income for the town.

By 1706, Whitby was the sixth-largest shipbuilding port in the UK, building more than 130 cargo ships each year. The output of the local alum mines kept local merchant shipowners busy transporting alum for the textile and tanning industries, and the coastal trade in coal had a strong presence in Whitby.

Although the alum industry gradually closed down in the 19th century, rendered redundant by more modern dyeing technologies, by then the Industrial Revolution had led to an increase in demand for one of the fishing industry's most lucrative seasonal catches - herrings.

Once a year, in late summer, fishing boats from as far afield as Scotland and Cornwall would converge on Whitby, ready to take their share of the herring catch. Much of the fish was exported and for a time both supply and demand for the little silver fish seemed insatiable.

The period from 1753 until the middle of the 19th century also saw great wealth and success for Whitby's whalers, which although fewer in number could make huge profits from a single trip, creating a number of extremely wealthy men in the town. The whaling industry is commemorated by a huge whalebone arch, several times the height of a man, which stands at the top of the steps leading to West Cliff. Nearby stands an equally impressive statue of Captain James Cook, perhaps Yorkshire's most famous seafarer.

Today, fishing is conducted on a fairly small scale, with a mixture of a few deep sea trawlers, and rather more smaller boats which are used to catch the shellfish that Whitby is so popular for. Most of this freshly-caught produce will later grace the tables of luxury restaurants, both in the town and elsewhere in the UK. Its premium quality fetches strong prices and is one of the ways in which the fishing industry continues to survive in Whitby

Many of today's visitors to Whitby are content simply to see, smell and occasionally paddle in the sea, but for those of a more adventurous or hands-on nature, there are a range of seagoing activities available.

Lovers of deep-sea fishing will find ample opportunities to practice their craft, with both group charter services and scheduled excursions available, often with all equipment provided.

There are a range of boat trips available in season, appealing to the inner child within us all - Whitby's old lifeboat makes regular trips around the bay, and for the more adventurous rides on a jet-boat are on offer.

Alan Moore invites you to join his free email newsletter The Whitby Bite:
http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com/whitby-bite.html where you can learn more about the real Dracula and his connection to Whitby, Yorkshire's unique vampire town.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Moore
http://EzineArticles.com/?Whitbys-Nautical-Heritage&id=575274

The North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway

2008-02-17T23:29:00.001Z

The North Yorkshire Moors provide the visitor to the area with some of the finest scenery in the whole of the UK. It has to be seen to be believed, but it really is a unique landscape and one that will linger in the memory for ever.

Why? Well, I guess it's the mixture of rugged, open moorland, mixed with 'olde worlde' villages that nestle in the bottom of some remote valley. It takes you back to a simpler time and, if you listen carefully, you can just make out the haunting echo of a steam train's whistle...

Running through the heart of the moors, the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway is one of the most popular attractions in the area, beloved of children and steam enthusiasts alike!

Run by a mixture of professionals and dedicated volunteers, the railway runs along part of the old commercial railway route from Pickering to Whitby. Closed by Beeching's Axe in 1965, most the line was eventually reopened in 1975, running a limited service between Grosmont, just outside Whitby, and Pickering.

Today, the railway is well-known for its historical appeal and its media appearances - both the train and one of its stations, Goathland, have made numerous appearances on the small and large screen.

The NY Moors steam train played the role of the Hogwarts Express, in the Harry Potter film, and its destination was Goathland, or Hogsmeade! Goathland itself is perhaps better known as Aidensfield, the location of ITV's Heartbeat series, and the station at Goathland has been wonderfully-preserved as it would have been in the early 20th century, providing a fascinating glimpse of railway history.

Alan Moore invites you to join his free email newsletter The Whitby Bite: http://www.dracula-in-whitby.com/whitby-bite.html where you can learn more about the real Dracula and his connection to Whitby, Yorkshire's unique vampire town.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alan_Moore
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-North-Yorkshire-Moors-Steam-Railway&id=802315

Self Catering - Accommodation in Style

2008-02-08T23:13:00.000Z

For many folk a vacation consists of a trip to a foreign land where we spend our time split between bar and beach. However there are many of us that like to enjoy the finer aspects of a place we choose to visit for a vacation. We like to experience the real culture, taste the culinary delights of that region and generally become part of that society for the duration of our vacation. Once of the best ways to fully immerse yourself into a foreign culture is to live amongst the ordinary people, of the city, town or village, in self catering accommodation.

By choosing to stay in self catering accommodation you are going to be avoiding the usual masses of tourist heading for the restaurant or the strange ritual of racing to the sun loungers next to the hotel pool. Self catering accommodation usually consists of the basic requirements for living, fridge, freezer, cooker and the likes. Usually it is a house or cottage in a regional style or an apartment in a larger building. In many cities self catering apartments are in very modern, purpose built, buildings with some having shared facilities such as pools, gyms and entertainment areas not unlike those available in larger hotels.

In rural areas self catering accommodation can be something really special. You may find yourself hiring a small cottage set in lovely countryside with only the native wildlife for neighbors. Or you may be lucky enough to find a lovely period house in a small rural village surrounded by old fashioned regional buildings. In such rural locations it is common for the locals to know that you are the folk staying at that address, such small communities are often extremely friendly and more than willing to stop and spend time chatting. You can really experience something of the real way of life there and you will often find that the local people are so kind and helpful that, by the end of you vacation, you will already be feeling rather at home and you may even be considering returning again.

If you are looking for something really special why not visit Scotland. Many folk in the U.S.A. can trace their family roots back to Scotland and there are many people keen to investigate their genealogy. The best way to trace your roots in Scotland is to visit local historical societies, local libraries and such places that may contain records of your ancestors. In some areas, such as the Outer Hebrides, there are many historical societies with a wealth of information and on the Isle of Harris there is a genealogy center containing microfilm and other resources. There is lots of self catering accommodation available of Harris but of all the cottages and houses available to rent one of the most interesting is a small 'blackhouse'.

A blackhouse is an old fashioned cottage type building with walls made of the local stone. Blackhouses have a thatch roof and small windows to protect those inside from the harsh winter weather. The blackhouse at Scarista, Harris, was built using all of the old methods but rather than having a sparse interior this self catering cottage has been brought right up to modern standards offering all of the modern comforts we have become accustomed to. The building is set within a short walking distance from one of the, many, spectacular beaches found on Harris (reputed for having the best beaches in Europe). Set on a family croft (small holding or small farm) your neighbors will be gorgeous looking highland cattle.

In some places in Scotland it is possible to find castles and other fine buildings available as self catering accommodation. For the more adventurous there are even haunted castles. If you are planning a vacation this year why not consider something a little out of the ordinary?

If you are looking for self catering accommodation on Harris then why not visit http://www.southharris.com

For further information on the Outer Hebrides visit the incredibly large and informative Virtual Hebrides at http://www.virtualhebrides.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_M_Kelly
http://EzineArticles.com/?Self-Catering---Accommodation-in-Style&id=973249

Sell Your Timeshare Now - I'll Tell You Why

2008-02-08T00:21:00.001Z

Let me start by saying I own Timeshare. Mine is on the market. If you're interested, give me a call! But seriously, I'm going to tell you why you should sell your timeshare and look at your vacations in a whole new light.

I fell for Timeshare about 5 years ago, hook, line and sinker. My wife and I were young professionals, making good money and we decided that we would always want to take a nice vacation once a year. It's nice to go to the Luxury Resorts in Exotic and Exciting Places and lose yourself for a few days. Very rejuvenating.

Recently I've discovered a newly available product that, in my opinion, blows Timeshare away. Before I get into that, let me list the Pros and Cons of timeshare.

Pros:

You stay at 4 and 5 Star Luxury Resorts

You can trade to go almost anywhere in the world

Simply Owning it ensures you will take a vacation, which is a good thing.

Cons:

Huge Up Front Costs

Yearly Maintenance and Other Fees

Can be Very Difficult to Trade for the Destination and Time of Year You Want to Travel

You can only travel as many weeks per year as you purchase.

Hard to take a trip On a Whim. Generally requires at least a couple months notice

We see that Timeshare looks great up front and sounds completely worth the Investment when you're in the presentation. But is it really Worth the Money? You are investing anywhere from $6,000-$20,000 Per Week of Vacation Time, plus you are hit up for hundreds or possibly thousands of dollars in Maintenance fees every year. Timeshare probably does save you money on vacations if you own it for 20 years to life, but what if there was something better?

I've found a company called Global Resorts Network that offers a Luxury Travel Membership. This membership offers all the Features of Timeshare with none of the negative baggage. In fact, the only benefit timeshare holds over the Membership that I can see is that with timeshare you get some tax deductions.

Here is what the GRN Luxury Travel Membership offers:

At least 2-3 times Less Expensive than 1 Week of Timeshare

No yearly Maintenance Fees

Travel When and Where You Want: No Blackout Dates

Travel On Short Notice, Only 6 days prior notice required

Vacation as many weeks each year as you want. No limit.

Stay in 4 and 5 Star Luxury Resorts

Access to Over 5,000 Luxury Resorts Worldwide

Here's how it works. You buy a Platinum Membership from Global Resorts Network. When you want to book a vacation, you log in to the membership site to browse the resorts, then book your dates and accommodations right on the site. They have an Excellent Support Staff to help you and they can even help you with Discounted Flights, Rental Cars and just about anything else you can think of. You also get Huge Discounts if you want to take a Cruise.

What's the catch? The only catch is that you pay for each week of travel when you book it. For timeshare, you pay an exchange fee when you book your travel, usually about $100. The GRN Membership gets you Wholesale Pricing for the Timeshare Resorts. Prices start at $298 for the entire week (8 Days, 7 Nights) and range up to $799 for the Entire Week at the most sought after and exclusive resorts. You will never pay more than $799 for a Week at one of these resorts.

I think for the Lower up front costs as well as the Freedom and Flexibility the Luxury Travel Membership offers, it is a very Favorable Alternative to Timeshare.

I am an Independent Representative for Global Resorts Network. For More Information on this Travel Membership, please visit www.ProfessionalVacationBusiness.com

There is also a Business Opportunity that comes with the Membership. If you are interested in learning more about that, please contact me through the website. If not, please take some time to review the Travel Membership and let me know if you have any questions. Make it a Beautiful Day!

Jason Williamson

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Williamson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Sell-Your-Timeshare-Now---Ill-Tell-You-Why&id=971074

Algarve

2008-02-07T00:22:00.001Z

A few years ago I went on holiday to the Algarve, Albufeira no less – What a lovely laid back tourist spot, fishing boats on the beaches, fishermen mending their nets talking about the catch of the day, idyllic. The scenes have most likely unchanged since the town was nearly all destroyed in an earthquake in 1755. It was merely a fishing village then.

We spent some of the long balmy days on the beaches, enjoying the water sports and getting a tan whilst the nights were spent dining on local cuisine. – fantastic! To get away from the beaten track we went inland to cooler areas and walked amongst the flora the region has to offer, such as almond trees, fig trees, pines and orange-trees. It was great to see the locals in the villages going about their traditonal living. We were made to feel very welcome.

However that was quite a few years ago, has the area changed much? Today Albufeira has a population approaching 40,000 residents with the number of tourists visiting the Algarve swelling considerably also. In fact during 2007 the tourist population increased between 5 to 6%. The largest increases being in golf holidays. The tourism portfolio also includes activities focused on eco-tourism, and culture,

If you wish to rent a really nice holiday property in the Algarve then visit our site where you will in access of 300 properties to choose from.

If golf is your thing book your tee times online

What about the locals today? Certainly the local have not changed in there friendly ways towards tourists in general and welcome the increased income it generates. However they do expect tourist to be polite. They will help you with any questions you have and most shopkeepers speak English.

Modern Albufeira changes in the late afternoons as the sun sets giving it a unique and vibrant character. There still remains a vast amount of restaurants, bars and clubs catering for all tastes and pockets.

The good beaches remain of course with a fine selection both east and west of the town. Praia de Balaia, Praia de Castelo, Praia de Falésia, Praia de Galé, de Olhos d’Agua, Praia de Maria Luisa, and Praia de São Rafael, being the best ones.

If you get too bored with the watersports and sun worshipping you can always visit the new Virtual Archaeological Museum. Or some of the old ruins!

Your Guide to Holidays in France

2008-02-07T00:18:00.000Z

Did you know that you can do or learn almost anything on holiday in France? Whether you yearn for thrills and spills, a retreat from the world, new skills and hobbies, theme parks and family fun or a spot of gourmet indulgence, it seems that the vast choice of French activity holidays can offer something for just about all ages and tastes.

For sporty types, there's mountain biking in the rugged Pyrenees, horse riding in beautiful Languedoc Roussillon or lawn bowls in The Dordogne. Here you'll find the only full-size bowling green in France, shared with the local bowls club. If you want to learn or practice archery, then independent travel specialist French Connections lists an elegant chateau in the glamorous Loire valley that offers both archery and archery hunting. They also list properties with private tennis courts or fully equipped gyms and the majority have private pools.

Anyone who needs to de-stress from a busy lifestyle can nourish body and spirit at a yoga retreat amidst peaceful Breton meadows and woodland or learn tai chi in a sunkissed southern hilltop village. Massage, beauty treatments, aqua detox and even lifestyle makeovers with advice on diet and exercise all take a holistic approach to your holiday in France.

We all feel good for releasing our creativity and on holidays in France you can take a course in pottery, ceramics, literature, drama, woodturning, photography or painting. It's a great opportunity to exchange ideas and the people, places, buildings and markets of France will never leave you short of inspiring subjects. Prefer to learn the language? An immersion course can help you speak French like a native and a spot of shopping therapy becomes the chance to perfect your accent!

Food and wine fans are fed with specialist holidays in gourmet dining, French cooking and tours of vineyards in the country's great wine regions. Tasting is included, of course.

About Author:

Glynis Shaw is from www.frenchconnections.co.uk the French holiday rentals website for renting a holiday home, farm house, gite or villa in France, or to buy and sell property in France.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Glynis-_Shaw
http://EzineArticles.com/?Your-Guide-to-Holidays-in-France&id=967224

Enchanting Edinburgh

2008-02-05T21:48:00.000Z

Combining a mixture of the traditional and the cosmopolitan, Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, contains such a variety of attractions that there has to be something to do for every person who visits this charming and appealing city. And millions do every year, because the city is one of the biggest tourist attractions not just in the United Kingdom, but in all of Western Europe.

Situated on the River Forth in the Lothian region in the East of Scotland, Edinburgh has a history dating back thousands of years, with the tourist attractions to prove it.
Regarded as one of the cleanest and one of the most beautiful cities in the country, the character and history of Edinburgh is witnessed as soon as you set foot in its city center. The "old town" is characterized by an interwoven collection of architectural styles, running back through the ages. To give an indication of the depth of interest in Edinburgh as a historical landmark, within the old city there are more the 4,000 buildings that have been listed as of historical interest.

The focal point of the old town of Edinburgh is the Royal Mile containing such famous and historical buildings as St Giles Cathedral, the Scottish Law Courts, the Royal Museum of Scotland among others. Looking down over the "old town" is the world famous Edinburgh Castle looking down over all of the city center, and on all that is both ancient and modern in Edinburgh.

Situated in the "old town" is another important historical landmark, Arthur's Seat in the Palace of Holyrood, an ancient seat of Scottish kings.

You should never forget that Edinburgh is a city of contrast. It is a city that has been long known for its culture and joy of life.

Every year, in the month of August, Edinburgh springs into a top gear of entertainment and festivities when she hosts the annual Edinburgh Festival. During that time visitors descend on the "old city" from all over the World, and estimates are that it permanent population of around 400,000 people doubles during these four weeks. Many of them take advantage of car hire Edinburgh to travel in and around the city during their stay.

There is so much going on in Edinburgh that it difficult to keep pace with during the Festival month. The most famous of the events during the festival, is the Military Tattoo. Anyone who has ever visited this spectacular event, held in the very grounds of Edinburgh castle, will have experienced the shivers of excitement as the massed bagpipe bands march in close formation to the shrill of their bagpipes.

Running at the same time is the Edinburgh Fringe Theatre where performers from every country in the Globe descend on the city to display their talents in the broadest range imaginable of artistic modes. The "fringe" is still regarded as the largest performing festival of arts, and is run in conjunction with the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
Renting a car can be an economical way to travel around the Edinburgh and its surrounding areas, with some firms offering discounts for rentals of three days and over. Car Hire in Edinburgh usually comes as a 'fully inclusive' package which includes unlimited mileage, collision damage waiver, passenger indemnity insurance and cover for third party, fire and theft - but not usually insurance excess. To rent a car anywhere in the United Kingdom, you must show a full driver's licence and a credit card in the driver's name. Cars are usually rented to customers between the ages of 21 to 70 years. Many people are reluctant to hire cars and drive around city centers. However, Edinburgh's center can be congested and parking a problem.

Whatever your choice, Edinburgh has it all and looks forward to welcoming you
For information on car hire or car rentals in Scotland's capital visit EveryCarHire at Car Hire Edinburgh.

Scotland's capital city by David Muldoon

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Muldoon
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Low Cost Airlines

2008-02-03T20:51:00.000Z

When Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes launched a no-frills, low-cost airline in 2002 with only two planes, few people realised the effect it would have. From only four routes, Air Asia set off a low-fare revolution that changed the face of the airline industry in the region. It is a stunning success story and now has 35 aircraft and flies millions of passengers across south-east Asia every year.

If you want to book a ticket with a low-cost carrier, the first trick is to find out which airlines serve your intended route. With lower advertising budgets than traditional airlines, this is often quite difficult. For your convenience we have listed the major budget carriers serving the two prime destinations - Singapore, Thailand.

Singapore:

The major budget carriers operating to and from this island state are JetStar Asia and Tiger Airways. JetStar Asia covers most major destinations in south-east asia, as well as Bangalore and Kolkata in India.

Tiger Airways covers Bangkok and Phuket in Thailand, Macau, and Padang in Indonesia. It is the only budget carrier direct to Vietnam from Singapore and the only budget choice to Australia, flying from Singapore to Darwin).

Thailand:

The three main operators in Thailand are Thai Air Asia, Nok Air and One-Two-Go. Thai AirAsia was launched in January 2004. Based primarily in Bangkok, the airline serves Thailand's major domestic destinations, as well as Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Kota Kinabalu), Singapore, Macau, Xiamen and Hanoi.

Nok Air, a subsidiary of Thai Airways International, flies from Bangkok to domestic destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Hat Yai and Udon Thani. One-Two-Go covers the major domestic routes within Thailand with fixed-price tickets.

As the number of people flying has increased, so has the demand for hotel accommodation and other products. Both Thailand and Singapore hotels are experiencing boom times as more people can afford to visit.

Chris Bonds is a consultant for HotelTravel.com - a leading international online travel information and hotel reservations service offering discounted hotel rates in top destinations world wide. Visit http://www.hoteltravel.com for additional travel information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Bonds
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Luxury Vacations - Helping You Get Your Fix Of Glitz And Glamour

2008-02-03T12:15:00.000Z

To many, the idea of a luxury vacation can provoke a mixture of awe and fear: after all, until recently, "luxury" was an idea that only the rich and famous were allowed to enjoy. However, as the travel industry explodes and more people are keen to take vacations to exotic and exciting destinations, the "luxury hotel break" has gained new meaning and revived momentum among travelers for the finer things in life.

In fact, treating yourself to a luxury break is no longer considered an extravagance but rather a welcome antidote to backpacking - especially among older travelers who have spent one too many nights in grubby hostels with just the basic essentials, and who can now afford to splash out a bit when booking travel accommodation.

Many people comment on return from their travels that they may need a "vacation to recover from their vacation". That's because traveling, despite all its pleasures, can be a hairy business - what with communication issues (if you're in a non-English speaking country), making sure your belongings are safe and trying to make the most of the time you have left to sightsee. Luxury hotels can really take the stressful edge off your vacation as you'll have everything you need right on your doorstep. Laundry services and daily housekeeping will take care of the basics, while the opportunity to be served three-course meals in the comfort of your hotel suite means you won't have to trawl the streets to look for somewhere to eat.

What's more, luxury hotels are infamous for offering their guests a variety of ways with which to unwind. Most luxury hotels today come with their own spa for which outsiders have to pay, while guests often receive complimentary treatments. A soothing massage, for instance, could be the ideal way to relax after a hectic day's activities.

What's more, many luxury hotels are situated near or host their own first-class golf courses; so if you're hoping to enjoy a peaceful golf vacation, staying at a luxury hotel could be your best possible choice if you want to play on the finest greens.

It's true that luxury hotels can cost a lot of money, but enjoying the comforts of a luxury hotel break doesn't have to follow suit. Planning to go backpacking in Europe for a few months this summer? Scrimp and save by staying in youth hostels during your trip so that at the end of your vacation, you'll be able to afford a few nights at a sumptuous luxury hotel in a cosmopolitan city like London or Paris.

Alternatively, if you simply want to experience the tranquility that staying in a luxury hotel offers, you don't have to travel far. Just book a weekend in a luxury hotel near you and indulge in the pure pleasure it will bestow.

Elisha Burberry is an online, freelance journalist and keen traveller and water sports enthusiast. Originally from Scotland, she now resides in London.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elisha_Burberry

y Rentals Give You The Widest Choice Of Holidays

2008-02-01T14:54:00.000Z

Holiday rentals remain an ever-popular way of getting away in some great locations for potentially great prices.

The internet has made the search for properties easier than ever before. You can specify what you are looking for and find a multitude of choices appearing on your screen, giving you the chance to "virtually" explore the area and property and make a huge number of comparisons before you make your choice.

What takes your fancy?

Sun, sea, sand and surf? You could try familiar destinations such as Spain, Portugal and Italy, but what about holiday rentals somewhere a little more exotic, a little further off the beaten track? How about looking at Gibraltar, Montenegro and Cyprus in Europe? Or even further afield: how do destinations like Mexico, Madagascar or Mauritius grab your imagination? Wonderful places, full of the good things in life.

Do the mountains appeal more to you than sun? Skiing holidays in places like France, Switzerland, Bulgaria, the US and other locations. Maybe you just want somewhere peaceful, and a little closer to home. Then you need look no further than England, Scotland, Wales or Ireland for two weeks of tranquillity.

Homes available for holiday rental can range from the small and simple to the large and luxurious - or even small and luxurious and large and simple! On offer at some locations are chauffeurs, maids, chefs, gymnasiums, swimming pools, saunas and home cinemas! All this in total privacy, and with family and friends that you dearly love rather than strangers in a hotel. Holiday rentals can be anything you want them to be, and there is bound to be something to suite everybody's price range.

Golf is more popular than ever and there are a large number of holiday rentals available near wonderful golf courses all around the world. Whether you associate a country with a golf tradition or not, you can almost certainly find a golf course in the destination you're looking at. So, it doesn't need to be just the golf - you can take in other wonderful attractions of a location too.
You may want to get away from it all, but have a holiday full of potential activities for all the family. What about a farmhouse? Here you can keep the kids busy, and you can join in or not - just as you choose to do!

There is no doubt that whatever you desire for a holiday, then renting a holiday property can give you what you want. How much luxury you choose to give yourself is up to you. If you want to be pampered, taken care of and assisted very step of the way, you can be, but if you just want to while away the days and relax the evenings with the evocative smell of barbecue coals while you sip at your red wine in the setting sun, then they'll be something available just for you! Fire your imagination! Fire your imagination! Start looking for holiday rentals now.

Derek is a keen writer covering holidays, short breaks, boating and rental holiday options across the UK and abroad after working in the industry for many years.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Derek_Dunne

Timeshare Travel Discounts - Travel Getaway

2008-01-29T10:06:00.001Z

Timeshare Travel Discounts are available if you just do a little bit of searching around both online and off. Most vacationers are under the impression that they must own a timeshare in order to have the privilege of traveling to a timeshare property. That just isn't so. Anyone can enjoy timeshare travel discounts simply by doing a little bit of research on the internet.

For example, the avid timeshare traveler may not be aware that they can find timeshare weeks for rent on Ebay. In fact, Ebay is one of the leading sources of competitive timeshare property listings of timeshare travel discounts. All one has to do to find these discounts is to first, sign up and join Ebay. It's free and Ebay walks you through it step by step! Once you join, you need to login to your account, find the search bar and type in timeshares. You may want to also choose the category as travel. That will filter out other unrelated travel items.

You don't need to do that though to find timeshare travel discounts. You may find other interesting results related to timeshare discounts. If you know that you want to travel to Cancun for example, just type in Cancun timeshares or discount Cancun travel. That narrows your search even more. If you have any other country in mind, just substitute the word Cancun for whatever area of the world you have an interest in, ie. Cabo San Lucas, Bahamas, etc.

Once you click on the search button, all of the timeshare travel discounts related to your request will show up on the screen. Take your time to browse through these and read very very carefully. If you see a week in Cancun for $139, what that really means is that a timeshare owner will allow you to use his or her membership week but you will still have to pay the all inclusive fees. Those are usually $1,000-$4,000 for the week on top of the $139. If you try to book the same week yourself though, unless the timeshare property is running a special, you will pay more. It's always wise to check out what Ebay has to offer and compare it to what you normally would have to pay. Most of the times Ebay is less expensive.

Another excellent option, especially if you like to travel worldwide and more than one time per year is a travel membership club. One such membership club that offers significant timeshare travel discounts to four and five star resorts, along with discount cruises and discount airfare is a company called Global Resorts or GRN. After researching many travel vacation clubs, this one came out on top because GRN houses most of the other membership clubs on their own site as well. You can find out more by clicking here to watch a wonderful video about the properties.

Check out the resource box below for other links that will explain more about this club. If you like Disney cruises and want a discount, you will want to visit GRN to compare prices. Members can save a lot of money on timeshare travel discounts and other travel discounts as well. Check out Ebay and check out GRN for great timeshare travel discounts before thinking of taking your next vacation.

Remember, you do not have to buy a timeshare (the costs can be very high once you join and you don't get much of a choice on where and when you can travel) to get to travel to beautiful timeshare resorts without any hassles.

Margaret Dunn is an avid Cancun Mexico traveler with a passion for beautiful beaches and relaxing vacations. To watch a video of amazing timeshare properties without having to own a timeshare, go to: http://www.amazingvacationsite.com or http://www.grntimesharediscounts.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Margaret_Dunn

The Best Santa Cruz Attractions

2008-01-16T10:15:00.000Z

There are many attractions that draw people to Santa Cruz, both to visit and to live. From beautiful beaches and boardwalks to the beauty and wildlife of the redwood forests, the area in and around Santa Cruz is full of things to see and do. Whether you are planning a vacation or relocation, the varied attractions will ensure that you are never bored!

One of the premier attractions that brings people to the area is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. This is the oldest amusement park in the state, and it sits on the coastline of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Plenty of old fashioned rides and attractions keep this amusement park feeling historic, while newer thrill rides keep the attraction exciting for those seeking a modern adventure. Since the amusement park borders the beach, visitors can bring their beach gear and spend some time enjoying the sand and surf.

For those whose favorite thrill is finding a great bargain, there are plenty of local attractions that revolve around shopping. The Pacific Garden Mall in the heart of downtown is one example. The unique shops in this outdoor mall are the perfect places to find a unique California gift. Street performers are a common sight along the mall's streets.

For the intellectual individual who is researching more cerebral attractions, the area provides several museums along with the beauty and fun of the beach. The Santa Cruz City Museum of Natural History highlights the flora and fauna of the area. This museum has plenty of attractions that appeal to adults, but with the hands on design of many exhibits, it is the perfect place to take children who need a break from the beach.

The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History is another museum in the city. This museum features rotating exhibits that highlight contemporary artists and historical artifacts from the area. It also hosts tours of three historic county buildings, including the Davenport Jail Museum, the Evergreen Historic Cemetery, and the Octagon Building.

Of course, the most famous attractions are the beautiful beaches that the area is famous for, and there are several that guests can choose from when visiting. Cowell Beach, the main Santa Cruz beach, is the one next to the Boardwalk. Here visitors can enjoy the sand and surf along with excellent restaurants lining the wharf.

At the Lighthouse Point Beach, visitors can explore the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum and watch actual surfers perform on the waves. This is a beach where dogs are welcome. The Natural Bridges State Beach, yet another popular and well-known beach, has an interesting arched rock formation overlooking its shores, providing lovely views. The tide pools at this beach provide an excellent place to view the wildlife that is normally hidden below the ocean waves.

If you have ever been to visit these Santa Cruz attractions, then you know the appeal of the city. Many visitors return to become residents. While the housing prices are relatively high, befitting its status as a "destination location", the people who live there feel that the high price is well worth it. Come and visit and see for yourself!

Seb Frey is a Capitola, California Real Estate Broker specializing in Santa Cruz Real Estate

He is fluent in Spanish and enjoys helping people find their piece of the American Dream in Santa Cruz You can find Seb's blog at SantaCruzHomeBroker.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Seb_Frey

A Bahamas Vacation is Never Forgotten

2008-01-15T09:53:00.001Z

If you decide on a Bahamas vacation, you will have an experience you will never forget. The Bahamas offer crystal clear water, snow white warm sand and an easy laid back way of life. Just what you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday living, and get that vacation you truly need.

The Bahamas consist of many islands, the two major ones being Paradise Island, or Nassau and Grand Bahama Island. It's best to check out the islands and their possibilities before booking your vacation, since apart from the two main islands there are about a dozen more called the 'out islands' which are also great tourist bases offering a peaceful vacation away from the fast pace and rush of the city.

So what can a Bahamas vacation offer you? Let's check out the obvious ones first: the water sports. Many people decide on a Bahamas vacation only because of the water sports. But what's the point of that? You can get equally the same kind of sports on any resort beach anywhere in the world. Why should somebody from the Carolinas Grand Strand, or Florida for that matter, consider a vacation in the Bahamas? They should be able to get all they want from their own back yard! Let's check it out.

The Bahamas water is crystal clear and a lovely bright turquoise color. The weather is perfect - not to hot, never too cold. The sandy beaches are pollution free and lovely pearly white. So are many other resorts, so why choose the Bahamas? Well, for starters, the indigenous population of the Bahamas has a different culture; so sure, Florida would be great if you just wanted more of the same but with a beach. With a Bahamas vacation you get a beach and a different type of holiday.

Different people with their own crafts and ways of doing things. Different food. Some would argue that the Bahamas' water is the cleanest in the world. Some may disagree. However, in the Bahamas you get shark dives, you get to swim with wild dolphins, not tame ones in a pool, and you get to eat real food, not just Big Macs and whatever else you normally eat on vacation.

A Bahamas vacation is different. You can visit any of the 'out islands' where you get away from the crowds and see animals in an undisturbed habitat. You can be matched with a native family to share a traditional meal and take part in a whole new cultural experience. You can not only observe the traditional life of the native people, but share it with them. This is a unique opportunity for a unique experience.

Alternatively, stay in a hotel. Get luxury five star treatment and pampering, and go home at the end of it totally relaxed, rested and ready for what the next 50 weeks are going to throw at you. Take a cruise if you don't want to be stuck in the same place all the time, and visit several of the islands. You can design your Bahamas vacation to be what you want. There are over 700 islands in the Bahamas archipelago, none are restricted and they are only about 50 miles from Florida.

The bigger islands provide the comfort of established hotels and all that comes with them, like the comfort and the top class cuisine, while the smaller islands provide you with adventure and camping out if you want it. Some prefer catching and cooking their own fish, while others prefer waitresses and bellboys. Try both!

If you like a bit of night life, Nassau has night clubs, casinos and cabaret bars. The posh hotels have everything you could want, and New Providence Island is as well endowed with casinos and night clubs as the capital is. Shoppers are well catered for with a wide variety of native craft shops, gift shops, arts and leather goods, not to forget the normal main stores of the larger cities. Nassau is no backwater and can keep most shoppers happy while their other halves have an afternoon on the golf course or in the lidos.

Whatever your preference for a holiday, a Bahamas vacation will provide it and will never be forgotten. Go for it and remember it always. You will want to go back!

A Bahamas Vacation is Never Forgotten was originally published at http://www.globallifenow.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andre_Sanchez

Reinvent Your Sports Spirit With Bahamas Golf Vacation

2008-01-14T09:52:00.000Z

Now that the holiday season is here, we all want to go to some place where we can have a blast with our family members and our friends. Going in for a vacation is definitely a necessity because it helps us to rejuvenate our mind, body and definitely our soul. This is a necessity in this competitive market. We work hard day and night to fulfill our responsibilities, our dreams and aspirations. This is definitely needed but then we also need to relevant breaks to keep up with the pace of this highly competitive and growing world. Today, at the brink of competition and success, we need to keep our minds fresh and need to relax and this can be achieved only if we do something to relax ourselves. Many of us try out various things and many of us prefer going in for a vacation with our loved ones and family members. Apart from relaxing, this also gives us ample scope to spend some quality time with our family members, which we rarely do. Opting for the Bahamas golf vacation could be one of the best things in regard to this.

Bahamas golf vacation is one of the best options for having an exciting and fun filled vacation and simultaneously spending quality time with family members and loved ones. This vacation gives all golf lovers a scope to play their game and that also at some of the most exciting golf courses. Therefore, this proves to be a beneficial deal. In circumstances, where you want to go in for a vacation and at the same time, give a lift to the sports person hidden within you, opting for the Bahamas golf vacation would genuinely prove to be the best decision. This vacation gives you the best of both the world of natural beauty and of the sports world.

As we all know, the Bahamas is an aggregation of seven hundred smaller islands and this is definitely one of the most mesmerizing things about this highly enticing and mysterious place. This place gives you a chance to feel close to nature and makes you crave for more of it. This is the only reason why tourists who go to visit the Bahamas Island, go there more often for vacations. This not only helps them to rejuvenate themselves but also helps them to feel at peace with themselves. Moreover, the Bahamas golf vacation helps these tourists to bring out the hidden sports person in them. Therefore, this is an added advantage of going to this place.

Therefore, if you are planning to indulge yourself and your family members in a mesmerizing vacation mood, then opting for the Bahamas golf vacation would prove to be the best thing for you. This place has much more to provide to the tourists and the best part is that this place will never disappoint you. It will always provide you with the best time that you could have ever dreamt of. Therefore, think no more and pack your bags for the ultimate experience of your life.

Suzane Gray has been offering Bahama travel and vacation packages advice for quite some time.To find cheap bahamas vacation, bahamas golf vacation, discount bahamas vacation package that best suits your needs, visit http://www.gobahama.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suzane_Gray

There's More to Orlando Than Disney!

2007-12-12T10:02:00.001Z

Yes, we all know that Disney is the place to go for family fun. However, that's not the only fun thing to do in Orlando. Following are just a few of the many options besides visiting Mickey & Minnie:

Arabian Nights is a dinner show, but to call it a dinner show is quite an understatement. Most dinner shows don't include the wedding of a prince and princess, beautiful horses, and breathtaking stunts.

There's also Wet 'n Wild, a water park that has something for everyone. There are thrill rides, multi-person rides, rides that are just for kids, and something they call "Take It Easy" for those who want to play some beach volleyball or float through the Lazy River.

If your kids enjoy taking a look at the weird, then take them to the Orlando Odditorium, aka, Ripley's Believe It or Not.

Now, with all the things to do and see in Orlando, staying at a hotel might not always be the best option for a family. After a few days of walking around in the Florida sun, your hotel room starts to feel smaller and smaller. Vacation rentals are becoming a popular alternative to families that travel because they offer so many benefits. You get more privacy (the kids can have their own room!).

If you have a large troop, you can save time and money by making breakfast instead of going out, waiting to get seated, waiting to be served, and paying too much.

So, with all the great things to do around Orlando consider an extended stay next time.

Try an Orlando vacation rental and enjoy all the comforts of home.

For More Information About Florida Vacation Rentals, check out: http://www.VacationRentalHotSpots.com - Florida's Top Choice for Vacation Rentals!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kenny_Doucette

Self Catering Cottages for Families - When Family is The Priority

2007-12-09T21:06:00.000Z

And in the rat race, we end up pining for connecting and getting in touch with the kids or parents. Living under the same roof is no more as equivalent to living with each other because we hardly take the time out of our schedules to live with others, know and listen to them. Now, if this is something that you can relate to, then the solution lies with self catering cottages.
Self catering cottages, now what is that? Self catering cottages, are arrangements where you can stay for some days away from your hectic schedules and everyday life. They are more or less like our own homes with all the facilities and gadgets that are used in every day life but minus the worries that are so much part of our daily routine. They are not hotels or guest houses. They are simply homes where you can live like you live in your own home.
Well, to spend time with family, one has to take out some time and pull out oneself from the everyday grind. And not just that, one has to pull out the family from the house too. By that I mean, go for a vacation with your family and make sure you spend quality time with them. And for that, one does not have to go far and wide. One can simply drive to a nearby county and stay in one of the self catering cottages that can now be booked online.
Yes, you can do that. You can book your self catering cottages online and what's better, you have multiple options to choose from. For a family outing you can choose from among the self catering cottages fit for families. If you have a pet, you can take that along, to self catering cottages that support pets. So just a short drive and you have a complete apartment to you where you and your family can spend a memorable time together.
Author: Terry is a globe-trotter specialising in travel writing. Having toured all over Britain, he has a fair idea of the best resorts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Pinto

Know Your Bag

2007-12-01T09:56:00.000Z

Exactly how to your indentify your luggage at an airport carosel or train depot? Most of the luggage you see is black in color. Although there is a wide variety of colors to choose from in purchasing luggage, travelers invariably end up with black, because it stays clean the longest. So you've got one of those "catch 22" problems. You'll have luggage that looks newer longer, but how do you pick it out in the sea of black color?
One of the best ways to identify your discount luggage is by having it monogrammed with your initials. This is permanent and cannot be easily removed. Anyone who claims it is their luggage will have to prove that is their initials. Theives are less likely to target monogrammed luggage because they know they would have no excuse to claim "I thought it was mine."
Another way to pick out your luggage is by a bright colored luggage tag. This serves two purposes. It will give you a place to print your name and address should the luggage go astray by baggage handlers and the bright color will also attract your attention at the crowded terminal. It is a good idea to put two bright colored tags on each piece of your lightweight luggage. That way you'll spot your bag no matter which way it comes tumbling down on the airport carousel. Most pieces of luggage have a top handle and a side handle, so put the same color tags in both places. These tags are available in neon colors as well as the traditional pallet of colors. Just always use the same color on each piece of luggage so you know exactly what you're looking for.
Handle wrappers are another great way to identify your luggage. These may turn out to be one of your favorite travel accessories. They change the color or both handles on your case to another bright color. They are held in place by velcro and are a super idea in making your bag look identifiable. Some of these handle wrappers also have a place underneath to put your name and address once again. You could also put your destination for ease in the baggage handling company finding you should the bag be misplaced. Once again, you'll want to use two of these on each bag for easy identification which ever way the bag tumbles by you on the carousel. Keep in mind that the only locks you can use on your baggage when flying is the TSA lock. These are allowable at airports because airport security personnel have a key to bypass the combination you have set on the lock. It works on the same principle as a hotel room with a master key. These TSA locks come in ever color possible so you can coordinate or contrast with your handle wrapper or tags.
Luggage straps are also available in every color and print imaginable. These slide through the handle of your luggage and either buckle or lock closed. If you choose the type with a lock, it must be closed with a TSA lock if you are traveling by airline. Make sure you look for the identifying symbol when purchasing these locks. Luggage straps also make great corporate gifts. They can be silk screened or embroidered with a company name or logo, so they are very identifiable. Now you'll be able to say, "Hey, that's my bag" with confidence.
Maxine Greco has been in the luggage and travel business for over 38 years. She is currently working at Village Luggage and Gifts.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maxine_Greco

Multi Leg Flights Explained

2007-11-22T23:23:00.000Z

Multi leg flights are an ideal choice if you want to visit two or more locations on a single trip. Due to their size and diversity, areas of the world such as the Far East, Australia or the USA lend themselves perfectly to the multi leg option.

The great thing about choosing to take multi leg flights is that you don't necessarily pay more for choosing to stop over in a country on route. The rules of mid and long haul flights normally allow you to stopover at least once free of charge. So for example, a flight from London to Sydney can have a stop over in Hong Kong and on the return you can stop over at Singapore, all for the same price as a return ticket to Sydney. The only thing to consider is that you may have to higher air port taxes.

There are many options to choose from if you decide to take a multi leg flight, and if you can't find an itinerary that suits you then you can have a travel agency tailor a quote to meet your specification. To give you a few ideas, below is a list of the most popular multi leg itineraries.

London > Hong Kong > Singapore > Bangkok > Phuket > London

• Experience the vibrant cities of the Far East and end the experience relaxing on the golden sanded beaches of Phuket

London > Bangkok > Sydney > Melbourne > Ayers Rock > Perth > Singapore > London

• Visit the best of what Australia combined with stopovers in the Far East for sightseeing and shopping

London > San Francisco (surface) > Los Angeles > Las Vegas > London

• Explore the sites of San Francisco before enjoying the coastal drive to Los Angeles. Finish the trip enjoying the gambling and casinos in the entertainment capital of Las Vegas!

London > Cape Town (surface to) Port Elizabeth > Johannesburg > London

• This itinerary allows you to visit the highlights of South Africa. Hire a car and experience the scenic stretch of the southern coast, known as the Garden Route, to Port Elizabeth. Finish your journey in Johannesburg, where you can explore the casino resort of Sun City, located about 2 hours outside Johannesburg.

If you plan on taking a longer journey, then the organising of a multi leg flight can become quite complicated. It's advisable that you consult an experienced travel consultant who should be able to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Compare ticket prices for around the world & multi leg flights at travelsupermarket.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Cox

Orlando Holiday Home - Why Aren't You Booking One?

2007-11-17T16:40:00.001Z

You are visiting Orlando for a trip of a lifetime and you have heard that renting a holiday home can be a great option. The combination of value and luxury, freedom and choice sounds like a great opportunity. So why aren't you booking an Orlando holiday home? Is there something holding you back?
You feel overwhelmed. You look on the internet and there are so many holiday homes to rent in Orlando you simply do not know where to start. Never fear! Help is at hand. Take some simple steps and you will find that your search for a home for your Orlando holiday home becomes a pleasure not a chore.
The first step? Write yourself a wish list. Start with the basic things such as how many bedrooms and bathrooms do you need. Then look carefully at the location - Kissimmee and Davenport are great locations for an Orlando holiday home.Then what other things would you like? Do you want king beds, rooms decorated for children,televisions in each room? What is important for your family? Once you have really decided the things that are important to you and your family you are already narrowing down your search. So you will save time and energy!
The next step? Work out a budget. You will be saving a lot of money by staying in an Orlando holiday home. You may be surprised at the value you will get. Is price an indication of quality? The old saying 'you get what you pay for' usually rings true and Orlando villas are no different. Beware of cut price deals. Can the owner really maintain standards if they are offering low rates? Perhaps, but always think about this when you see a 'bargain' home.
Once you have found some Orlando holiday homes that you like the look of then start communicating with the owner. This can be by email of telephone - whichever you prefer. If there isn't a telephone number on the site then ask the owner if they will call you. It may be that they just don't publish their number on the site as they don't want it on the internet for all to see! Can you trust the holiday home owner? You should get a good feeling right from the first response. This is a big decision for you and you need to trust the villa owner. They should answer as many questions as you need to ask.
So go ahead. Start your search and find your perfect Orlando holiday home. You will never want to stay in an hotel room again!
Alison Meacham is a travel writer who owns vacation rental homes near Disney World. Get a free copy of her guide 10 Smart Ways To Avoid a Florida Vacation Rental Disaster and sign up for her newsletter. Making renting a Florida home less ordinary at her website www.floridavacationrentals-usa.com
Check out Alison's Florida Vacation Rentals Blog
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Meacham

Cottages Devon

2007-11-05T14:52:00.000Z

Now is a great time to be thinking of renting Cottages in Devon.

If you are looking for a winter escape, or something different for the New Year - then why not consider a cottage in Devon? Escape from the hum drum of the darker nights - get your cottage booked now and see how much better you feel!

Diving Mallorca

2007-11-01T09:28:00.000Z

What are my memories of Diving In Mallorca?

First, unseasonal winds brought in scores of red jellyfish that resulted in the beaches being closed one day. As I was having to do a checkout dive from the shore, this dive was put off for over a week. So it wasn't until mid holiday that I got to dive at all.

The shore dive started with a hair raising jump off steps into deep water, but the drop into the water was about 10 feet, with quite a swell. A quick swim away from the steps to regroup then around the Cala. An interesting dive, but mainly seaweed and the odd small fish. A bit of time playing about near the rock formations then a swim right in until we could swim up the beach no more.

The boat dive was far more interesting and took us to about 30m, with the usual fish suspect to be seen. A lot better - seems to be if you are diving here boat dives are a must!

Diving In Playa Blanca

2007-10-25T16:28:00.000+01:00

For a change whilst in Lanzarote I decided to dive with a different outfit on a dive organised by one of the entertainments team in the hotel I was staying in.

He arranged for us to be picked up from Costa Teguise in the morning and ran down to the white sands of Playa Blanca. Most of the group were a French family - excellent fun to be with! They had never dived before and were heading down for a try dive.

Kitted up in the shop, crossed the road, down the beach and straight into the water! Easy access, just a shame it took almost an hour to get to the shop.

Not being used to the equipment (in the days before my own gear) I'd taken too much weight down. The German guy I was with took too little - between us we managed. Just a pity all the weights were strapped on and couldn't be passed between us!

Was a nice dive, but apart from ease of entry and the white sands, pretty much the same as dives elsewhere on the island. Maybe even slightly less fish as the beach was used a lot by other water sports.

Worth diving if you are there, not sure about trekking across island to go there.

Advanced Diver In Lanzarote

2007-10-20T12:51:00.000+01:00

Once I'd passed my Open Water course in Lanzarote, the next step for me was to take the Advanced Course next time I was on holiday there. I'd decided that this was a great way of squeezing in 5 days quickly within a week.

I started off with the navigation dive, swimming back and forth a few meters under the waves in Puerto Del Carmen. Reasonably accurate navigation, but swimming in a slight cove when the tide is heading out is never going to give the inexperienced 100% results!

A few hours later and we were back in the water again for the fish-id dive. Swimming around, watching for the various species, then telling my instructor some of what we saw. Then having to sketch one!!!

5 hours later and then it was time for the night dive. The first proper dive as the other two of the day had been in shallow water - just deep enough for them to count. Really interesting one this one - first ever dive at night. We entered the water before it was dark to make sure we had time to get our bearings and get used to it, then swam off to explore the night time see. A treat I would readily recommend - watching the phosphorescence of the divers about you - even switching off the torches to see this effect more clearly!

The next day started with the deep dive to 30m, passing a fishing boat wreck on the way down the side of a coral face. On the ascent we stopped to see some rare pink coral. For the first experience at depth the dive went well. Really enjoyed it and the buoyancy was going good.

The second dive that day was the boat dive - the first time from a boat and almost as deep as the morning's dive. We dropped to the bottom in slow motion free fall and with correct buoyancy adjustments on the way down, stopped and hovered just above the sea floor, without touching it.

Excellent fun, 5 dives in 2 days and the rest of the week was free for the family holiday.

Costa Rica Beaches - The Most Beautiful

2007-10-17T09:18:00.001+01:00

Costa Rica is a gorgeous Central American country offering the world's most heavenly beaches. Its coastline stretches over 1100 miles so there's a huge variety of beaches to see - with every type of sand, rock and shell beach you can imagine.
With warm waters year-round, its exotic “playas” offer something for everyone. Come to sunbathe, swim, surf, scuba dive, or just take in the incredible scenery. There’s plenty of beaches that have a sparse population so you can have the privacy and seclusion for a peaceful vacation. This place is a beach lover’s paradise!
Here is list of some of Costa Rica’s top beaches:
1. Playa Conchal On The Gold Coast:
Located in the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Conchal is one of Costa Rica’s most unique beaches. Once you arrive, you realize that the entire beach is composed of hundreds of millions of tiny seashells. Hence the name “Playa Conchal” which actually means “Shell Beach”. With some of the clearest waters on the Gold Coast, snorkeling and/or scuba diving is a must! Playa Conchal has an amazing array of marine life on display. There’s a few national parks, a golf course and camp grounds nearby as well.
2. Playa Montezuma:
Located in a small remote fishing village at the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Montezuma is known for it’s sandy beach and tropical surroundings including islands, rivers and waterfalls. Definitely visit the waterfalls that are over 50 feet high. They are popular tourist attractions and many people love to jump the falls. Although the town has become a popular hotspot for young travelers, the beach (which stretches for miles) is almost deserted and offers secret surf spots and isolated areas to relax in privacy. Montezuma is a carefree place with a mellow vibe.
3. Playa Bahia Ballena:
Created in 1990 to protect the coral and rock reefs around the Isla Ballena, the Marino Ballena National Park is an important island for seabird nesting colonies, as well as basilisk lizards and green iguanas. Humpback whales can also be seen here from December to March. Bottle nose dolphins can be spotted along the coast too. Playa Bahia Ballena is a great place to visit for the budget traveler offering a multitude of things to do besides sunbathing- such as surfing, kayaking, or horseback riding.
4. Playa Flamingo:
With its stunning white sand and pristine clear blue waters, Playa Flamingo is the ideal beach to go to. It offers its visitors some of the best deep sea fishing in the world. Tuna, Marlin, Snapper and Swordfish can all be found off the coast year round. Playa Flamingo also offers plenty of water sport activities, golf courses, and parks.
Whatever beach you pick, you will be amazed by the natural beauty and calming feeling you get when there. Costa Rica is truly an exquisite place to see and come back to over and over again!
Christine works for NewSunGraphics, who represent Beach Club Costa Rica, http://www.beachclubcostarica.com, your gateway to prime real estate investments in Costa Rica. Part of the beauty of living in, or visiting Costa Rica is the nature and incredible wildlife that still exists here. Our goal is to support projects and efforts that work towards ensuring that the Costa Rica we love today remains for generations to come.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Christine_Abbate

Saving Money By Getting A Hotel Package Deal

2007-10-16T09:40:00.001+01:00

Getting a hotel package deal can save you a huge amount of money on your vacation. If you buy them all separately, you end up with a giant bill. You have to pay full price for your flight, your hotel, and your car if you choose to rent one in your destination. Sometimes it’s impossible to get a lower price for all of it. But, if you look for package deals, you may find one that saves you money.
Usually, you will find the best package options if you’re heading to a popular destination, or a city that attracts lots of visitors. For example, you’re more likely to find a cheap package for New York City than for a small town. Packages exist for most cities – it’s just that the potential savings are greater in popular destinations.
Naturally, you should compare your various options. If you buy a package deal, you’re stuck with specific companies. There might be other companies that offer the same thing for cheaper. Find out about these companies, and see if the total price would still be more than the package deal.
To take advantage of the package deal, you don’t necessarily have to buy airfare, a hotel room, and a rental car. In many cases, you can choose just 2 of those things, and still get a cheaper price than if you bought them separately. So if you’ve got 1 aspect of your trip worked out, it’s worth checking if you can save on the other 2.
You should also remember that most package deals have high cancellation fees. So, if you have any doubts about your trip, you might not want to commit to one. Otherwise, it is a great way to save money and have your entire trip planned so you know exactly where you’re going and how much it will cost.
Find amazing Atlantic City Hotel Deals and Packages at http://www.achoteldeals.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gabriel_J._Adams

Things To Do In Boulder Colorado

2007-10-15T09:31:00.000+01:00

Boulder is nestled in the foothills, where the rolling plains meet the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Centrally located within an hour of Denver, Denver International Airport, Eldora Ski Resort and Rocky Mountain National Park. A few hours from many of Colorado's world-famous ski resorts makes Boulder the ideal Colorado destination.
Recently rated the "#1 Sports Town in America" by Outside Magazine, offering countless year-round recreational activities. Take advantage of the 200 miles of public hiking and biking trails, approximately 30,000 acres of open space or the Boulder Creek Path, which runs through the middle of town.
Accommodations
Best Western Boulder Inn - Prominently located directly across from the University, the Boulder Inn gives guests easy access to Boulder's principal attractions, NIST, NOAA, premier shopping, and extraordinary dining. Stylish, well-appointed rooms reflect a gracious ambiance, found throughout the hotel.
During your visit, enjoy our complimentary continental breakfast, free in-room high speed internet access, 24-hour business center, and full service health club privileges. Other guest facilities include a large outdoor pool, sauna, hot tub, on-site restaurant, and conference center.
Best Western Golden Buff - The Best Western Golden Buff Lodge has one of the best locations in Boulder, with over 30 restaurants, shopping, University of Colorado and movie theaters all within walking distance.
Boulder Broker Inn - Enjoy their full service Victorian style hotel featuring meeting and banquet facilities, Bentley's Lounge and the Broker Restaurant. The broker offers all the amenities you need including wireless internet, a complimentary shuttle downtown and a full hot breakfast buffet. We are located within walking distance to CU as well as several restaurants. The Broker Inn is Boulder's hub of the airport Super Shuttle Service.
Attractions
Boulder, Colorado offers a variety of interesting and entertaining attractions year-round, and many are free or almost-free. There is something for everyone in Boulder, and after spending some time here, it’s easy to see why Boulder sets itself apart from most cities its size.
Banjo Billy's Bus Tours - Banjo Billy's Bus Tours departs at 2115 13th Street in front of the Hotel Boulderado. Daily tours from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This is an 80 minute, PG-13 funky guided tour of downtown Boulder, "The Hill" and Chautauqua is filled with ghost, history and crime stories. Ride a saddle, sit in a lazy boy, this ain't no typical bus. BookCliff Vineyards - "Wine that You Will Like" is the tasting room and wine bar of BookCliff Vineyards, a Colorado winery located in Boulder. They offer wine tastings and wine by the glass to enjoy with chocolate, cheese and speciality meats as we share the space with the Belvedere Belgian Chocolate shop. Come and taste their award winning wines and selected wines from other Colorado wineries made from 100% Colorado grown grapes.
Nightlife
7 Eurobar - Seven's head chef and co-owner, Michel Wahaltere, has created his version of hot spots called “euro bars” in cities such as Madrid, Paris, and Rome. At seven, Michel transforms traditional flavors into various nouveau small plates that reflect the popular tastes of Spain, France, and Italy.
Boulder Dinner Theatre - Dinner, dessert, and a show! The Boulder Dinner Theatre has a 20+ year history of bringing the best of Broadway to Colorado, and most shows are extremely family-friendly.
Dark Horse - A Boulder landmark since 1975, this unique food and beverage emporium is adorned with movie props and turn of the century antiques. The Dark Horse truly "boggles the mind". The menu includes award-winning gourmet burgers, jumbo wings, chicken and vegetarian dishes, and children's favorites. Dine indoors or on the patio with spectacular mountain views. The bar features Front Range microbrews and quality spirits, along with 25 TVs, a satellite dish, pool tables, air hockey, football and video games. Karaoke on Thursday night.
Check out our Colorado Home Loans website for the best rates on Colorado Loans.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Tasner

Hello from Austria - Going Back to My Roots

2007-10-14T10:29:00.000+01:00

The story of the immigrant – the recurring tale of people with two identities, their lingering attachment to their birth country and their love for their new homes... For many people immigrating to a new country can be an almost schizophrenic experience.
My experience is a little unique: I left my home country of Austria at the tender age of 20 and will soon be celebrating my 21st anniversary of living in Canada. Any gifted mathematician will tell you that I have spent more than half my life, and virtually my entire adulthood in Canada, my new home country, a country for which I have great respect and love. On the other hand, many people are surprised when they hear me speak in my original Austrian dialect. They can’t believe I have been away from home for more than two decades and I still speak my East Styrian dialect exactly the way I spoke it 20 years ago. You could call me a truly bi-cultural individual.
During my first 10 years in Canada I travelled back to Austria once a year to visit my family – my father, grandmother and brother. Unfortunately my mother had passed away a couple of months after I first arrived in Canada, and I had many sad memories of growing up. Then a significant milestone came to pass in 1995: both my father and grandmother passed away within half a year of one another, an event that affected me deeply for a long time, especially since I had a very small family to begin with (no uncles, no aunts, no other grandparents). After this I took an almost nine year hiatus during which I did not travel back home at all. It was not until 2004, at the occasion of my 20th high school graduation anniversary, that I travelled back home to Austria again.
Since I had started travel writing in 2004 there were so many other places to visit in the last few years, and I have since explored fascinating places like Havana, Mexico City, Sicily, New York City, Chicago, Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Halifax, and many interesting towns and places across Canada and the United States. So there had not really been an opportunity to travel back to Austria, my native country.
But with the occasion of my brother Ewald’s 50th birthday this year I decided to make a trip back. That was a celebration I simply could not miss. In addition, I had set a deliberate goal to travel back home and to explore my birth region through the eyes of a travel writer and to compare Austria, and more specifically Styria, my home province, with the many other places I have had a chance to visit over the last few years.
So I set off in late July and flew into Vienna, Austria’s famous capital. On a gorgeous day I drove south on the A2 Highway through rolling hills into my home province of Styria. It was as if time had stood still, the quaint villages were still there; the fields, orchards and forests still looked the way I remembered them. One thing I distinctly noticed was the fact that virtually all the houses were beautifully renovated and everything seemed in tip top modern condition.
Upon my arrival and a warm welcome by my sister-in-law Anneliese (my brother was still at work) we went for a little walk through my home town of Weiz, and I had a chance to see some of the new buildings that had gone up since my last visit. After a great reunion with my brother and a restful night recuperating from my jet lag, the following day, a Saturday, was going to be the day of my brother’s birthday dinner.
Ewald is a very talented professional chef, so the three off us set off right away in the morning and started the day with visits to the farmers markets in Gleisdorf and Weiz, my home town. Local produce, meats and baked goods made my salivary glands work overtime and my brother picked up the necessary ingredients. Then he started preparing the feast while he sent Anneliese and me on a brief hike through a portion of the Raab River Gorge, a popular hiking and recreational area close to my home town. I added a little driving tour through the scenic areas surrounding the local Goller and Gösser mountains and explored the old mining village of Arzberg. We spent the evening savouring a multi-course gourmet dinner, admiring my brother’s cooking skills.
Sunday was set aside for a full-day outing: we met with our friends Luis and Isabella (who had already visited us in Toronto in 2005), and drove about an hour into the area of South West Styria, which is a very well-known wine growing region. We went hiking in a picturesque area of rolling hills that is often referred to as the “Austrian Tuscany”. After all this exercise we enjoyed a scrumptious late lunch in a local winegrower’s restaurant, and in the evening I went for a quick bike ride through town.
The weather did not cooperate the next day and it was drizzling or raining the entire day. This gave me a chance to visit my friend Andrea whose daughter Nina had spent several weeks at our place in Toronto last year. I had not seen Andrea, the older sister of one of my schoolmates, for at least 23 years and the reunion was fabulous. A little round of tennis with my friends Luis and Isabella capped off a low-key day.
A brilliant blue sky and beaming sunshine woke me up on Tuesday and I embarked on my first photo tour of my home town. I checked out the imposing baroque pilgrimage church called Weizbergkirche in my home town, and visited Schloss Thannhausen, a Renaissance castle that is still used for concerts and special events. I then drove through the Weizklamm mountain gorge that features vertically dropping limestone cliffs, a river and a main road that is patched against the rocks. The road is so narrow in some areas that one side of traffic has to wait for the other side to pass, there simply isn’t enough room for two vehicles to get by side by side.
The road took me up into the mountains to a village called St. Kathrein, a picturesque little place with gorgeous mountain views, lots of local bed and breakfasts, hiking trails and a nearby ski area. In the afternoon I connected with Andrea and her family again and together we embarked on a special excursion: a visit to the Katerloch, a well-known limestone cave that features the greatest variety of stalactites and stalagmites in all of Austria.
Fritz, our guide, took us on a two-hour walking tour and with his dynamic and entertaining speaking style he explained all the features of the cave, including the various rock formations as well as several big caverns with names such as the Hall of Fantasy, the Enchanted Kingdom and the Lake Paradise which features an underground lake 135 m below the cave’s entrance. He also told us about the former owners and explorers of the cave, a deeply religious married couple that discovered and made accessible extensive new sections of the cave in the early to mid 1950s. These two individuals definitely believed that willpower and conviction can move mountains.
Another gorgeous summer day followed which I decided to start off with a hike through the wildest section of the Raabklamm, Austria’s longest gorge and a designated European nature conservation area. My friends Andrea and Herbert set the pace which was enhanced by our Nordic walking poles. I stopped for a couple of Austrian culinary treats at a local restaurant before I continued my excursion to Graz, the capital of Styria and Austria’s second largest city.
Graz is a really underrated destination, the majority of North Americans has never even heard of it. When people think of traveling to Austria, the destinations Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck instantly come to mind. Surprisingly Graz is still mostly flying under the radar as far as North American travelers are concerned.
But what a shame! Graz is an absolutely gorgeous destination: it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because it has one of the most well-preserved late medieval and Renaissance city centres in Europe. It was also designated as the European Cultural Capital in 2003. Graz is known for outstanding architecture, music and various leading edge arts festivals throughout the seasons.
On my way to Graz I made my first stop in Mariatrost to visit the impressive baroque pilgrimage church on the hill. I then stopped my car near the Opera House and walked down the Herrengasse, Graz’ popular shopping promenade and part of the extensive pedestrian area. I admired the Renaissance courtyard of the Landhaus, seat of the Provincial Styrian Government, and made my way to the Hauptplatz, the city’s main square. It is a beautiful public space, anchored by an impressive late 19th century city hall that overlooks stately houses flanking the square.
The view from the Hauptplatz is framed by the Schlossberg, a rock that is located in the middle of the city that once featured an imposing medieval fortress. Most of the fortifications were destroyed by Napoleon’s troops in 1809, but the citizenry of Graz paid significant ransom money to retain its most beloved landmark: the Uhrturm (“Clock Tower”), the tower with the four over sized clock faces whose hour hand is longer than its minute hand.
This clock tower has for centuries been the symbol of Graz and I enjoyed my view over the city from its terraces after my funicular ride up the mountain. I also took in the afternoon performance of the carillon on the Glockenspielplatz, where since 1905 the music of 24 bells accompanies the mechanical dance of a couple made from wood, entertaining dozens of tourists who congregate to watch.
My brother and sister-in-law had taken the next day off and we were planning an excursion further afield: our destination was a mountain peak called Mangart in Slovenia, located about a three-hour drive from my home town. The beauty of Central Europe is its diversity of landscapes and its small distances, and in just a few hours of driving through the Austrian province of Carinthia we arrived in Val Canale, an area where Austria, Italy and Slovenia meet. Incidentally this is also the only area where the Germanic, Romance and Slavic language families come together right next to one another. We passed by the picturesque Predil Lake and continued our climb into the high mountains and crossed the Italian border into Slovenia.
But as it can be with the best laid plans of mice and men, our hiking trip to the Mangart Mountain was not to be: our car overheated and there was no way we were going to make it any further. We had to stop, let the car cool down and turn around to go back down the mountain. Fortunately, our disappointment did not last long since we came up with an alternate plan: we took the cable car up to Monte Lussari whose summit area features a tiny mountain village with a small pilgrimage church. An absolutely stunning 360 degree mountain vista opens up from the top of this mountain and we enjoyed a hearty lunch on the balcony of a rustic restaurant, taking in the phenomenal Alpine panorama.
On our way home we stopped in the town of Tarvisio, a border town that has benefited for a long time from the traffic between Austria, Slovenia and Italy. We stopped at the market, my brother picked up a few Italian delicatessen and we enjoyed our stroll through town. After our return in the late afternoon I embarked on a little local excursion and drove to the Teichalm – Sommeralm area close to my home town.
This region is now marketed as the “Almenland’, which literally means “Alpine meadow country”. The Tourism Region Sommeralm -Teichalm represents the largest contiguous high-altitude alpine meadow area in Europe. It features a lake, many hiking trails, ski lifts and phenomenal views into the surrounding countryside. In addition, the area is used as grazing pastures for hundreds of Alpine oxen, animals whose tender and tasty meat is prized highly by chefs and restaurant owners throughout the entire area.
Poor weather returned on Friday, so I spent a quiet day making visits to acquaintances and doing errands. The highlight of the day was a classical concert organized by the local Weiz Lions Club: a charity concert and fundraiser that featured musicians and an orchestra from AIMS, the American Institute of Musical Studies, a Graz-based organization that offers intense summer vocal, piano and music programs to international students, most of whom come from the United States.
We listened to pieces by Mozart, Strauss and Verdi and were thoroughly impressed by the young sopranos, tenors and musicians who put on an outstanding performance. The event even raised 15,000 Euros for the local charity. I interviewed several of the young music students after the concert and they were thoroughly enjoying their international exchange program and sure to return home with memories of a lifetime.
Finally, the sun had returned and my second last day in Austria was going to be gorgeous. My second photo safari through my home town resulted in several encounters with acquaintances whom I had not seen for more than 20 years. Old memories were stirred up even more when I connected with my school friends Klaudia and Doris. During our walk up to the local Weizberg we also had a celebrity connection: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s mother, father and brother are buried in the Weiz cemetery. His parents lived in this town for many years, and his father was a local police officer.
Of course we reminisced about our high school adventures and after a scrumptious garden lunch we went to go hiking on the nearby Schöckel mountain. The Schöckel is the largest mountain in the region around Weiz and provides a phenomenal 360 degree panorama over the entire region. Southerly views extend into the Slovenian and Hungarian plains, and northerly vistas feature the high Alpine peaks of Northern Styria. To the east and to the west the scenic Styrian hill country opens up. The three of us climbed up the steepest portion of the mountain, securely equipped with our Nordic walking poles. Several restaurants offer refreshments and hearty Austrian food at the summit area, and high-speed excitement is provided by the summer tobogganing track that runs down the mountain, a nice adrenaline kick I just had to experience.
After our hike back down we stopped off at Doris’ house, a beautiful property in the countryside, that features a brand new pond and large garden. Doris even equipped us with delicious freshly picked peaches from her father’s orchards. Klaudia and I headed back to Weiz and an hour later we met up again for a backyard barbeque at my brother’s place. Klaudia’s entire family, her sister Andrea with daughters Nina and Katja as well as the two grandparents joined us for a delicious dinner that showcased my brother’s culinary skills in a multi-course feast.
My last full day in Austria had arrived and Ewald and Anneliese had planned a special outing: an excursion to one of Austria’s most famous fortresses – the Riegersburg. In existence for more than 850 years and located in the border region of the old Austro-Hungarian Empire, this impressive fortification has withstood many attacks from the east and was never conquered. It has often been referred to as the “strongest fortification of Christianity”, having successfully defended repeated attacks by Turks and Magyars.
With its numerous fortified gates, its unique location on an extinct volcanic cone, its extensive defensive walls, wooden drawbridges and moats, the Riegersburg is an authentic medieval fortress that has seen architectural additions from the Renaissance and Baroque eras. An exhibition in the fortress explains the historic era of the 16th and 17th century and sheds light on feudalism as well as two fascinating female characters who inhabited this fortress more than four centuries ago: Baroness von Galler and the “flower witch” Katharina Paldauf.
Our East Styrian tour continued through volcano country with a drive to Schloss Kapfenstein, another medieval fortress that has been expanded into a castle and today holds an upscale restaurant and hotel. This castle is also located on the extinct cone of a former volcano. We enjoyed a tasty lunch in the outdoor patio of the castle, against the gorgeous backdrop of the distant Carinthian and Slovenian Mountains.
My last evening in Austria was capped off with a visit to our friends Luis and Isabella, and all five of us enjoyed the late evening sun in their beautiful backyard. Luis even took me on a little motor scooter adventure around town. Back at Ewald’s place we spent a few more hours reminiscing until I had to pack my bags for my departure to the airport in Vienna Monday morning.
These nine days have been one of the most wonderful travel experiences in my life. They were greatly enhanced by my connections with family and friends, but in addition, my eyes were truly opened to travel opportunities in my birth region of Austria.
Styria, with its medieval cities, imposing churches, monasteries and fortresses offers a great variety of destinations to history and architecture lovers. Music, visual and performing arts are ever present, even in small communities. Outdoor lovers will find a whole smorgasbord of activities, from hiking to mountain biking, skiing, horseback riding, mountaineering, hang-gliding, river rafting and many other varied pastimes.
The diverse landscapes featuring fertile plains, rolling hills full of orchards and vineyards, high Alpine peaks and meadows, pristine rivers and scenic lakes enchant at every corner. And food, wine and beer lovers will definitely enjoy the diverse culinary offerings. In addition, Styria offers affordable prices and great value to international travelers. I realized my birth region is right up there at the top of any destinations I have visited in the last few years.
This trip truly opened my eyes to the astounding beauty and variety of the area where I was born, and even though Styria might not be as well known as other regions of Austria, my nine days back home were far too short and I already have a whole list of things to do and see next time I am over in the old country.
Susanne Pacher is the publisher of a website called Travel and Transitions (http://www.travelandtransitions.com/). Travel and Transitions deals with unconventional travel and is chock full of advice, tips, real life travel experiences & interesting life journeys, interviews with travellers and travel experts, cross-cultural issues, and many other features.
Susanne has recently published a series of FREE travel ebooks about destinations such as Spain, Cuba, Mexico, Sicily, New York City, Chicago, Montreal, Toronto, Nova Scotia and many more. Visit Travel and Transitions - FREE ebooks (www.travelandtransitions.com/ebooks.html)"Life is a Journey – Explore New Horizons".
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Eating In Paris - Gastronomical Guide

2007-10-13T16:04:00.000+01:00

One can't avoid eating. There are 2 ways of taking meal: one can eat just to refuel the organism and to get pleasure from the process of eating. Paris is the kind of place where you obligatory ought to give a gastronomical treat to your body.
Once in a restaurant you can face up a difficulty: the menu is in French. To sit in confusion with the waiter looking at you is not the best situation one can imagine. It’s a shame to eat the dishes you didn’t want to order but had to just because you didn’t understand a single word! Besides if ordering at random you will go over your budget without tasting what you wanted to try in the French capital.
That’s why it will be useful to study the list of the most popular with the French dishes, drinks, vegetables and desserts on the Internet beforehand.
And some more words about the menu («a la carte» in French). At noon many restaurants offer fixed menus: menu midi, menu du jour. It’s not necessarily worse than a la carte but it’s a guarantee of a quickly service. One can also find menu fixe and formule. These are menus which include a standard set of dishes that can be ordered at any time. Bear in mind that a standard French dinner is very substantial and consists of three dishes plus a dessert. As a rule, the tips are included into the bill so there’s no need to leave a waiter more than 1-2 euro.
If you’re so full that you can’t eat your dessert at the restaurant then go to one of the numerous chocolate shops, choose sweets to your liking and eat them at the hotel. By the way French chocolate is a nice souvenir for all your relatives and friends. One of the best chocolate shops is Les chocolats Foucher (there are two shops of this brand: at avenue de l’Opéra and at rue du Bac ). Besides in these shops you can buy black, red and green tea in a smart wrapping.
Don’t forget to buy cheese! The French say there’s 365 kinds of cheese in France, just like the days in the year. In fact there’s much more. Interesting to note that an average Frenchman eats about 30 kg of cheese per year. The French adore cheese. There’s even a monument to the cheese inventor. Here’s a list of the most popular sorts of cheese:
1. Banon 2. Baratte 3. Beaufort 4. Boursault 5. Brebis des Pyrenees 6. Brie de Meaux 7. Brin d’amour 8. Camambert 9. Cantal 10. Chabi 11. Chaource 12. Chevrotin 13. Comte 14. Coulommiers 15. Epoisses 16. Explorateur 17. Fourme d’Ambert 18. Gaperon 19. Langres 20. Livarot 21. Maroilles 22. Mimolette 23. Munster 24. Neufchatel 25. Picodon 26. Pont-l’Eveque 27. Reblochon 28. Rocamadour 29. Roquefort 30. Saint-Marcellin 31. Saint-Nectaire 32. Tomme de Savoie 33. Trappiste de Laval
So enjoy eating in Paris. Bon appetite!
Paris hotels
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