The Traveling Blog

Romantic Getaways from $282

2010-01-04T17:11:00.000-08:00

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London Pass - What Else?

2009-09-22T06:31:00.000-07:00

The London Pass is more than just a ticket to top attractions, you can also get many other deals and offers included in the price, find out below what else you could save with the London Pass and find out what some of our customers have to say about us.

What else you get?

As well as the normal things you get with London Pass:-

- Get your passport to London! FREE entry to over 50 attractions
- Priority access at the busiest sights - you can skip the queues
- A FREE guidebook full of need to know information
- Over 40 additional deals, discounts & freebies
- Optional FREE travel on London transport

You will also benefit from some of the following:-

- Dining Offers
- Shopping Offers
- Films and Entertainment

5% off the retail price of the LONDON PASS with this code: londpas05

Top 10 Attractions in London You Can Visit

2009-09-17T18:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been to London before? If your answer is no, then NOW is the time to change that. With the London Pass, you can get entrance into a number of different places. Here are the Top 10 Attractions that you might wish to take part in. Some of these attractions include the The Tower of London and the London Bridge Experience and The London Tombs. To make things even better, there is a voucher code available which can save you 5% off the retail price of the LONDON PASS (code: londpas05).

Top 10 Attractions

The Tower of London

The ancient stones reverberate with dark secrets, priceless jewels glint in fortified vaults and pampered ravens strut the grounds. The Tower of London is one of the world's most famous fortresses and has seen service as royal palace, prison, armoury and even zoo! It is still home to the Crown Jewels and Beefeaters.

To celebrate the 500th anniversary of Henry VIII's accession to the Throne, a stunning exhibition of the famous monarch's personal arms and armour ever shown in the UK is included in your admission to the Tower. Henry VIII: Dressed to Kill includes original artefacts never previously displayed in the UK and is included in admission until 17 January 2010.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £17.00
Normal Entry Price: Child: £9.50

Thames River Cruise

A Thames river cruise is without doubt one of the best ways to see London, weaving through the heart of the city and past so many of its most famous attractions. See and experience the sights and splendour of this great city from the relaxed comfort of a City Cruises modern, all-weather boats with open upper decks and spacious lower saloons with panoramic windows.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £11.50
Normal Entry Price: Child: £5.75

St Paul's Cathedral

Come and experience the majesty and glory of St. Paul's Cathedral, it's iconic dome dominates the London skyline. Built between 1675 and 1710, St Paul's Cathedral is widely considered to be crowning achievement of the glittering career of Sir Christopher Wren.

The Whispering Gallery at this London cathedral is famous for its acoustics and is 30 metres above the cathedral floor, while below, in the elegant and spacious crypt, are the tombs and memorials of such historical luminaries as Admiral Lord Nelson and the Duke Of Wellington

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £11.00
Normal Entry Price: Child: £3.50

Windsor Castle

A must see for London visitors, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world and official residence her majesty the Queen. The magnificent State Apartments are lavishly furnished with treasures from the Royal Collection, including masterpieces by Rubens, Holbein, Brueghel and Van Dyck. You can get there from London Paddington in around 30 minutes

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £15.50
Normal Entry Price: Child: £9.00

Tower Bridge Exhibition

One the most impressive structures and sites in the capital, Tower Bridge in London has stood over the River Thames since 1894 and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Learn about the history of the Bridge and how it was built. Interactive displays and videos provide an entertaining and informative guide to Tower Bridge in London and its place in the history of the River Thames.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £7.00
Normal Entry Price: Child: £3.00

Kensington Palace and The Orangery

Generations of royal women have shaped this stylish palace and elegant gardens from Queen Mary to Victoria and, more recently Diana, Princess of Wales.

Today a unique collection of dresses worn by Princess Diana, including some never before displayed at Kensington Palace are shown in Diana Fashion and Style, an exhibition that charts the early days from the 1983 silk evening dress by Donald Campbell to the full blown style icon, demonstrated by the sleek black Gianni Versace cocktail dress, worn in 1995.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £12.50
Normal Entry Price: Child: £6.25

Hampton Court Palace

The flamboyant Henry VIII is most associated with this majestic palace, which he extended and developed after acquiring it in the 1520s. Its many royal occupants have ensured the palace has fabulous furnishings, tapestries and paintings. It is set in 60 acres of formal gardens, which include the famous maze and the Great Vine.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £14.00
Normal Entry Price: Child: £7.00

London Bridge Experience and The London Tombs

The London Bridge Experience is a two-part tourist attraction situated within the arches of London Bridge.

Firstly enjoy a fascinating trip back in time as the London Bridge Experience delves through the history of the bridge, from Druids through to Victorians, meeting Vikings, Romans, and some creepy medieval characters along the way. Featuring real life actors, stunning special effects and animations, this is unique interactive adventure really does takes you back in time.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £21.95
Normal Entry Price: Child: £16.95

Churchill Museum & Cabinet War Rooms

The Churchill Museum & Cabinet War Rooms are dedicated to the life of the ?greatest Briton', Sir Winston Churchill, and the secret underground headquarters that were the nerve centre of Britain's war effort.

The first London museum of its kind, the Churchill Museum covers all ninety years of Winston Churchill's life, divided into five chapters: his early year's as British Prime Minister starting May 1940; his later years; his childhood; his early political career and the period famously known as the ‘Gathering Storm’.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £12.95

Shakespeare's Globe Theatre Tour and Exhibition

London sightseeing visitors can enjoy a trip back in time with a visit to the spectacular Shakespeare's Globe Theatre. Situated on London's Bankside, Shakespeare's Globe Theatre reconstruction the original building that housed Shakespeare's theatre in London, an open-air playhouse where the playwright penned many of his greatest plays.

Normal Entry Price: Adult: £10.50
Normal Entry Price: Child: £6.50

Voucher Code

Code - londpas05
Promotion - 5% off the retail price of the LONDON PASS
Expires - No Expiry

Please remember to enter the above code when checking out.

Off from Entrecard

2009-02-04T01:51:00.000-08:00

Hi, I need to inform all of you, especially the advertisers in my Entrecard widget that this blog has been taken off from Entrecard because there was no update for more than 3 months already. I will bring off the widget when the last advertiser is featured. If you would like to cancel your advertising at this blog, do feel free to do so. Pardon me for the inconvenience caused to you.

Tanah Lot of Bali, Indonesia

2008-08-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

This group of photos were shared by my friend who was in Bali recently. This series captured the Tanah Lot, a famous rock formation off the Indonesian island of Bali. The first two shot were taken about 15 minutes just before sunset. Tanah Lot is home of a famous pilgrimage temple, the Pura Tanah Lot and a popular picture motiv for tourists.

According to Wikipedia, Tanah Lot means "Land in the Middle of the sea" in Balinese language. Located about 20 km from Denpasar, the temple sits on a huge offshore rock which has been shaped continuously over the years by the ocean tide.

Entrance Ticket Price : (as on 19 August, 2008)
Domestic Children : Rp. 5.000, Adult : Rp. 7.500
Foreigner Children : Rp. 10.000,- * Adult : Rp. 10.000

The following shot is from denzani from sxc.hu

Wordless Wednesday: Singapore Flyer

2008-07-16T05:43:00.000-07:00

For the information of those who are not living in the Singapore, please allow me to say a few things about it. My first reaction when I heard that Singapore is building the Flyer - reproduction of the London Eye? Not very original and creative. London Eye was then the world's largest observation wheel. Now Singapore Flyer took over the title ... at least until the next one comes up. Standing at a stunning 165m, the Flyer is the height of a 42-storey building – that’s some 30 metres taller than the famed London Eye.

According to the 9 Great Reasons To Visit article from the offical website, "It’s the only place to see Singapore’s magnificent cityscape. As the wheel turns, you’ll be treated to a visual 360° feast of iconic and historical landmarks and views from the Marina Bay to the Singapore River, Raffles Place, Merlion Park, Empress Place and the Padang. There is no other place in Singapore that offers these breathtaking, panoramic views." You can find more information at: http://www.singaporeflyer.com/

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A Walk Along One Fullerton

2008-04-17T19:43:00.000-07:00

The other day I was showing a friend around Singapore River, One Fullerton and the Merlion Park. It has been one of my favorite spots at night where you get to dine by the Singapore River in the twilight. Not that Singapore River is in any way spectacular but the atmosphere and ambience at One Fullerton all blend in magically with the soft lighting to make it an ideal romantic dining place with loved ones or friends. If you are looking for coffee, you can find Starbucks there too. Talking about Starbucks, I can still smell the aroma of the coffee; it really smelt heavenly.

One Fullerton at the Singapore River is not only a favorite spot for some Singaporeans where they get to savor a range of good restaurants offering international cuisines to local Singaporean dishes but also a good spot for tourists after a long day of malling and walking around Singapore.

If you like seafood, I would recommend the No Signboard Restaurant, a name given by the customers. Be adventurous to try the famous Singapore Chili Crab or to try one of their specialities, the White Pepper Crab (take a look at the picture on your right). However, I have to warn you that it might be a little hot and spicy for people who do not take spicy food.

For those who are not into the fanciful restaurants and fine dining, I challenged you to buy your own food from the nearby Lau Pat Sat (which is about 5-10 minutes walk from One Fullerton) and have your dinner, the picnic style, at the Merlion Park. Imagine casually eating under the twilight, with the sea-breeze blowing gently in your face and the sound of the waves lapping against the seawall. Not to mention the stunning backdrop of Singapore's skyline at Raffles Place on one side and the Esplanade on the other side.

Of course, not forgetting the Merlion. From Uniquely Singapore, the Merlion was designed by Mr Fraser Brunner, a curator of the Van Kleef Aquarium, the lion head represents the lion spotted by Prince Sang Nila Utama when he re-discovered Singapura in 11 AD, as recorded in the "Malay Annals". The fish tail of the Merlion symbolises the ancient city of Temasek (meaning “sea” in Javanese) by which Singapore was known before the Prince named it “Singapura” (meaning “lion” (singa) “city” (pura) in Sanskrit), and represents Singapore’s humble beginnings as a fishing village.

Oh, before I forgotten, please remember to keep the place clean and tidy after you are done with your picnic or you may be fined for littering.

From the Merlion Park, you can also have a good view of the Fullerton Hotel, which is one of the premium 5-Stars hotel in Singapore. Back in 1928, it was the largest building ever built and cost over 4 million dollars. In the early days, the building was occupied by the General Post Office. It was also a place that witnessed many election campaign rallies.

While I was taking a walk along One Fullerton toward the direction of The Esplanade, the theatre on the bay. I can't help but fell in love with it; the lighting of the building and the reflection of the building on the Singapore River was simply beautiful. I managed to take some photos of it but it seems nowhere close to seeing it with your own eyes. The photo was taken using Sony Ericsson K810i Cyber-shot phone in the twilight landscape mode. The colors appeared closest to the naked eyes.

The whole tour starts around 10 pm and ended around midnight. If you want to take photos of the Merlion in the Merlion park, you do have to be there earlier because there will switch off the lighting and the water splashing from the Merlion at certain hour. Oh ... how can you get there? You can either take a cab ride or you can take the MRT to Raffles MRT Station and it will take you around 5 minutes to walk to One Fullerton.

Extreme Skydiving Adventures Will Not Disappoint

2008-04-09T20:02:00.000-07:00

One of my friends has been talking about skydiving for a while and he has reflected to us that he need to keep his weight below 100 Kilogram (not too sure if this is a general requirement by all establishments providing skydiving service or it is the requirement of the establishment he enquired with). I have been thinking about it too after I tried bungee jump last year. Ever since young, I have been wondering how does it feel like to be 'flying' in the air just like superman. The closest experience I have, besides flying in the plane, was in my dreams where I was flying just like superman! I think I must be crazy!

Besides the dreams that I had, I reckon the next closest is skydiving. Bungee jump was fun and exciting but it could not really give me the feeling of free fall. Skydiving on the other hand will give me that feeling of free fall at speeds of up to 120mph. How does it feel like? I can read the testimonials or write-ups by others, but I will never know how it really feels like until I try it out myself. Since I have no interest at this moment to become a skydiving instructor and since I only want to have that skydiving experience, I think tandem skydiving will be the great choice.

According to skydiving.com, "Tandem skydiving is an incredibly easy, safe and enjoyable way to experience the excitement of skydiving without having to learn how. Free fall at speeds of up to 120mph and enjoy breathtaking views during you canopy ride. Feel a total sense of freedom while securely harnessed to your personal sky diving instructor. The exhilarating free fall combined with the peace and tranquility of the parachute ride makes your tandem skydive a unique experience you will never forget. Allow 2-3 hours of your time for the experience of a life time. Tandem skydiving is available 7 days per week, all year."

Skydiving! If the very word gives you a shiver of dread, you are hardly alone. Or perhaps you're one of those people who lives for thrills like these. Either way, an extreme skydiving adventure might be just the activity you've been looking for. People like to throw around the phrase "pushing your boundaries", but extreme skydiving actually delivers on this promise. Truly, no sport can give the same kind of adrenaline rush as jumping out of a plane into free fall at ten, thirteen, even as high as eighteen thousand feet above ground!

Now, not everyone is ready to jump, as it were, straight into this kind of extreme sport, save for the very most hardened thrill seekers among us. It takes more than a little bit of mental preparation (or a truly exceptional disposition) to be ready to jump out of a plane and plummet to Earth at speeds exceeding a hundred miles an hour. For instance, consider how far one falls in extreme skydiving. Say you jump out of the plane at thirteen thousand feet; typically one opens the parachute at about twenty five hundred feet and then gently drifts the rest of the way. This means there is a free fall of nearly two miles!

When you stop to think about it, what other sport or activity will allow you to hurl towards earth at speeds of up to 120mph and then gracefully float onto the ground. This experience is unmatched by any other adventure sport.

Obviously, you can't just jump out of a plane completely unprepared. Skydiving lessons are a necessity, not just a good idea. There is of course a small degree of danger associated with extreme sky diving, so lessons are an absolute must. Skydiving certification can be obtained relatively quickly, depending on the particular skydiving instructors and methodology used. Sometimes you can become certified in as little as two days.

Be sure to pay careful attention during your classes and ask any questions about anything you are not totally clear on. There is literally nothing unimportant covered in skydiving lessons. Don't worry about sounding silly in class, everyone was new at this at one time, even the instructor. You will learn hand signals to communicate while in the air, how to operate your equipment, all the necessary information will be covered in your skydiving lessons. Again, and this cannot be stressed enough, pay attention and ask lots of questions.

After learning a little on how to handle yourself and your equipment while extreme skydiving, you should feel much less apprehensive than before if you were, and more prepared whether or not your attitude was more of the "I was born ready" variety.
And as with anything else, preparation is key. Extreme skydiving can be an unparalleled thrill, but without proper preparation is hazardous. With the required number (or more, never do a real dive until you feel ready) of skydiving lessons under your belt, you will be perfectly ready to experience the unmatched exhilaration that skydiving, and especially extreme skydiving have to offer.

About the Author, Steven Milstone: Find the latest information on skydiving visit http://extremeskydivingadventures.com as well as http://extremeskydivingadventures.com/Tandem_Skydiving.html

Extreme Bungee Jumping Adventures

2008-04-08T19:15:00.000-07:00

I had a hell of an experience last year when I tried bungee jumping for the first time in my life in Phuket, Thailand. I had always wanted to try out bungee jumping, at least once in my life, before that. When I was in Phuket last year, I happened to come across World Bungy at Patong Beach, Phuket, Thailand and without thinking twice, I went for it! The rest is history! I must say it is truly an eye-opening (or were my eyes closed) experience. Everything happened in a flash and so fast that before I knew it, I was already bouncing up and down like a Yo-yo.

The owner explained to me the procedure, process and charges for the whole bungee jump. I remembered signing up some declaration forms stating that I was in the sane mind and physically fit to take up the jump. After making the payment, the owner told me that I can take a look at a jump first before deciding that I will surely go for it.

My friend and I proceeded to a clearing where we could see someone preparing for the jump. The crane took the person up to the 60m height and we saw the man standing at the edge of the platform. He was looking down at his friends who were shouting to him in a language that we did not understand. The shouting went to and fro for about 5-10 minutes and I guessed the man was thinking too long that he did not jump in the end. As we watched, the owner said to us, "He should not have looked down and should not have waited too long to take the leap. The longer you wait, the harder it will be for you to make the jump. So when you are up there later, don't think too much and just jump."

After witnessing the failed jump, the owner asked me, "Are you still going for it?" "Yes!" I affirmed. Looking at the pond below the jump, I asked the owner, "Will the jump takes me into the water or it'll be out of the water?" The owner replied smiling, "Do you want to be in the water or out?" Looking at the dirty pond, I laughingly replied, "I want to be dry!"

The preparation for the jump took about a short 10 minutes or less. First, my weight was taken and then written on my palm. The staff then carefully tied up my ankles with sort of a protection before they asked me to kangaroo-hop to the crane that will bring me up to the height of 60m for the jump. I would say I was a pretty good and obedient student; I followed their instruction almost perfectly. The owner of the establishment told me again, "When you are up there, don't think too much and don't look down." That weren't too much information to remember too.

I still remembered on my way up to the jumping height, I was talking to the staff that was going up with me and he was giving me the last set of instruction. "When you are up there, you will move to the edge of the platform. When I say 'ready,' you will echo back 'ready.' Then I will count 3, 2, 1 and you will jump out of the platform with your arms opening wide like a cross." He said. I went through the instruction that he had given me in my head and I pictured myself doing the jump. It is too late now to give up the idea of jumping as I remember a few words the owner told me, "No jump, no refund!"

It took the crane about 5 minutes to reach to the height of 60m and I did a kangaroo-hop to the edge of the platform.Standing at the edge of the platform and holding on tightly to whatever I can hold on to. I was waiting for the staff and I took a quick look downward (so I wasn't exactly obedient but I wanted to see how high I was and how it looked downward at this height). Somehow, my friend and all the people below looked smaller and I can barely hear what my friend was shouting. I brought my head back to the horizontal level and took a glance at the scenery in front of me. The staff shouted, "Ready?" I echoed back, "Ready!" He then counted down, "3 ... 2 ... 1 ... jump!" And I hurled myself forward and out of the jumping platform. That split seconds of falling and for once the clock stopped ticking and I could only hear myself screaming, "Woooooooooohhhhhhhh!" I was already reaching the ground. What followed was the dangling action like a yo-yo for about a few minutes before coming to a stop.

I was 'fish' to back to the ground with a bamboo pole and I gladly grabbed the pole. The staff pulled me in to a platform besides and pond and untied me from the support. What an exhilarating experience! Yes! I had finally done my bungee jump! What's next? Skydiving? Maybe.

When I was back at home and some of my friends gotten to know of my jump, they were saying I must be crazy ... who in the world with a sane mind would do such a thing. Maybe they are right ... but I know that bungy jump, although it seem like a dangerous activity, is safer than driving to a large extent.

Planning Your River Rafting Trip With The Kids

2008-03-27T21:38:00.001-07:00

Copyright © 2008 Norm Schoenhoff

Most kids will be thrilled to go on a whitewater rafting trip or adventure, and it's a terrific opportunity for a family vacation or get-together. You'll need to pack a few extra items to make sure the trip is fun and safe for everyone involved, and kids will need to dress appropriately for both water and on-shore activities.

Rafting with kids also requires a few extra safety precautions and considerations, and you may need to contact the outfitter to find out about extra amenities, safety protocol, and rafting lessons for your kids' first experience.

Here are some other key things to keep in mind as you plan your adventure:

Activities for Kids

Many whitewater rafting trip packages offer a number of activities beyond the river. From camping on the riverfront to hiking across the wilderness, kids can take part in a variety of fun and exciting outdoor activities as part of their experience. If your kids have special needs, you'll need to make sure they will be all right with any activities, games, or adventures scheduled along with the trip.

Types of Trips Available

Beginner's whitewater rafting trips are usually perfect for kids, as these contain milder waterways and rapids. Review the different options available; there are many wonderful and exciting beginners' trips in Northern California, and these offer unique views, attractive camping sites, and adventurous rivers to watch the area's wildlife and scenic landscapes. You'll need to find a whitewater rafting trip that is simple, fun, and not too challenging; the South Fork American is one of the most appropriate whitewater rafting adventures for beginners, and is a great choice for kids of all ages.

Length of the Trip

Not all kids will enjoy an entire day or overnight trip for their first whitewater rafting adventure, so you may want to consider just a half-day trip instead. Many outfitters offer a wide range of packages and trip options, and you can still enjoy some of the best trips with just a half-day course. Consider different options depending on your kids' skill level, age, and general interest.

Rafting Company or Outfitter Protocol

Find out what the rafting company allows and doesn't allow for your trip. Some outfitters will provide all rafting gear and food for your entire trip, and others will offer facilities and camping equipment for your trip. You'll need to let them know how many kids will be joining you on the trip so that they can accommodate accordingly. If the outfitter is providing food and snacks, make sure they are aware of any dietary restrictions or allergies so that you have the right type of food on hand throughout the trip.

Packing Comfortable Clothing

Kids need to wear comfortable clothing that's appropriate for their trip and rafting experience. They'll need clothes that can be worn on the raft, and also the right clothing for any camping and nature trails that will be a part of the trip. Sandals, light shoes, and swimsuits work well for kids as they go on the water; then they'll need to layer for any hiking or camping activities on the shore. Pack these in a backpack or tote that's waterproof, so your kids can travel with exactly what they need.

Sleeping Bags and Camping Gear

If your whitewater rafting trips will last longer than a day, make sure you've packed along the right sized sleeping bags and camping gear. These can be stored in waterproof bags, and need to be kept separate from all dry clothing in case they do get wet along the trip. Make sure the kids have plenty of snacks - granola bars, non-perishable foods, and a few pieces of candy - to keep up their energy level until meal time.

Appropriate Shelter

Whitewater rafting trips that extend overnight need to include appropriate shelter and facilities for a good night's rest, this is not negotiable. This is especially important if you're sending kids off on a rafting adventure on their own; still, you'll need to plan for an appropriate camping spot that is safe and secure. Plan ahead by reviewing guides and maps from your outfitter, and get recommendations from experienced whitewater rafters in the area to find out where to set up camp.

Organizing a whitewater rafting adventure for kids is a great way to encourage them to try something new and exciting in the great outdoors. Just keep these important considerations in mind as you plan that trip, and be prepared for a unique and memorable adventure!

About the author: Norm Schoenhoff and his crew have been leading river rafting trips down four of the most beautiful Northern California white water rivers, since 1978. Whitewater Excitement provides trips designed for beginners to experienced rafters, with "Best in Class" standards of safety, service, pricing and quality. Church groups, business organizations, families, and groups of friends regularly make the fun and exhilarating trip down the rivers, with the expert rafters from Whitewater Excitement. Learn more by visiting: http://www.whitewaterexcitement.com/

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Ready to Shop in The Great Singapore Sale?

2008-03-18T05:37:00.000-07:00

Have you already book your air ticket to Singapore? If you have not, you may want to make plan to book your flight now - especially if you are a certified shopaholic. The annual shopping extravagant is coming to Singapore soon. The Great Singapore Sale (GSS) is one of Asia's most anticipated events. The GSS will be from 23 May to 20 July 2008 this year and the whole event will last for about 8 week. You can enjoy discounts of up to 70% on just about anything (fashion, watches, jewellery, electronics etc), anywhere (from downtown Orchard Road to Marina Bay to the shops in the heartlands).

How do you get to Singapore? The award winning Singapore Changi Airport is recognised as one of the best airports in the world. With 80 airlines serving more than 180 cities in over 50 countries, you can easily find an airline of your choice to get to Singapore. With the fleet of budget airlines, flying to Singapore from Asian countries like Philippines, Thailand, China, Vietnam, Indonesia etc has never been easier and cheaper. Be sure to book your air ticket now; the earlier you book, the more you save.

Start your shopping experience in the Changi Airport Shopping City with over 300 retail and F&B outlets in Changi Airport. With such a wide varieties and choices to choose from, its no wonder that the Changi Airport Shopping City is voted the World's Best Duty Free Shopping. You can also shop with confidence as the prices at Changi Airport are guaranteed no higher than established downtown shops or you can ask for refund. Find more information about Changi Airport at: http://www.changiairport.com/changi/en/index.html

How do I getting to City? Getting to the city from the airport is one of the easiest things to do. There are varies form of transport which you can choose from:

1. Taxi (Cab) - The journey to city costs between S$18.00 and S$32.00 and takes approximately 30 minutes.

2. Airport Shuttle - There are different schedules for the different terminals. Please approach the Airport Shuttle Counter on the arrivals level to register. It costs S$9 per adult and S$6 per child.

3. Train (MRT) - The Changi Airport MRT Station is located under Terminals 2 and 3 and linked to the arrivals and departures by escalators and lifts. The first train arrives at around 0530hr and the last leaves at midnight. A single fare to the city costs about S$2.70 (inclusive of S$1.00 refundable deposit) and takes approximately 27 minutes. Tickets are available at the station. If you are traveling with little or light luggage, you may want to consider this option. (Look to picture on left, courtesy of MICA)

4. Public Bus - Public bus service 36 goes to the city. The first bus arrives at around 0600hr and the last leaves at midnight. A single fare costs below S$2.00 and takes about an hour. Bus stops are located under Terminals 1, 2 or 3. Please prepare the exact fare as no change will be given. (This is the least advisable especially if you have big or many pieces of luggage.)

Where do you stay? Singapore offers a wide variety of accommodation types to suit all budgets and preferences. They range from backpacker, budget and youth hostels to boutique and five-star hotels. You can google for the kind of accommodation that you suit your need and budget. I would recommend HotelTravel.com. When I was googling for hotel for my trip in Phuket last year, HotelTravel.com was able to provide me the best rate for most of the hotels I was looking at. Not only that, their service is prompt, friendly and with online support.

How do you move around? Moving around in Singapore is one of the easiest things to do because of the highly developed transportation network, provided you know where you are going. As mentioned earlier, the GSS is located from downtown Orchard Road to Marina Bay to the shops in the heartlands. Depending on the location of your hotel, there are 3 modes of transportation at most time. You can catch a ride on Taxi (cab) or MRT or public buses from your hotel to Orchard Road (Orchard Road MRT station) and from there you can just take a slow walk along the whole stretch of Orchard Road all the way to Dhoby Ghuat MRT Station; you will see all the major shopping malls on both sides of Orchard Road. From Dhoby Ghuat MRT Station, you can take a MRT ride to Cityhall MRT Station where you can continue your shopping trip. (The Picture of Suntec City Shopping Mall within walking distance from Cityhall MRT Station, courtesy of MICA)

And while you are in the vicinity of Cityhall MRT Station, you may also be interested to take a look at one of Singapore landmarks: The Esplanade, theatre by the bay. (Photo on the left, courtesy of MICA)

From Dhoby Ghuat MRT Station, you may also consider taking a MRT ride to Harbor Front MRT Station where you will find one of the latest mall, Vivocity, in Singapore. (Photo on the right, courtesy of MICA)
http://www.vivocity.com.sg/

What do you eat? Eating in Singapore is never boring if you may ask a Singaporean. Singapore is a food paradise and being a multi-racial country, you have a wide selection of cuisines to choose from. We guarantee that our local food like Bak Kut Teh (Pork Ribs in Tea Soup); one very unique food that you must definitely try. Laksa (noodles in a spicy coconut broth); this is one of the Singaporeans' favorites. Roti Prata (Indian pancakes) will leave you wanting more. If you are not so adventurous in food, you can always stick to the many fastfood chains like MacDonald, KFC, Burger King etc. I am sure you can find something to your liking.

What do you wear? Singapore has an equatorial climate, which is warm and humid all year round. Rain falls throughout the year. You can leave your winter clothing at home, just t-shirt and jean will be fine. And of cause a good pair of walking shoes.

What will be the next thing to do? Make sure you marked the date for the GSS and book your air ticket earlier. I'll see you in Singapore!

PS: Don't forget to get your tax refund. Check for more information at: The Official Great Singapore Sale's Site

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Tips On Traveling With Children

2008-02-24T07:02:00.000-08:00

Traveling with children can be fun and yet stressful at the same time. It is crucial to make proper planning.

There is no question that going on vacation with your children can be a true test of your patience. However, it can also serve as a real eye opener to look at your trip through the eyes of the children.

Vacation travel doesn't have to be a stressful time if you are prepared and come equipped for incidents that are likely to take place. Sure, you can't plan everything, such as if a child gets injured or has a miserable time, but you can at least prepare them for the changes they will face while away from home.

The most important aspect of traveling with children is to plan, plan, and plan some more. Everything from the attractions you will visit and restaurants for meals should be planned out. Before you even depart, consider taking feedback from your children concerning how they would like to spend some of the time.

It is good to plan one day for everyone in which they decide together what they are going to see and where they will eat. By involving them in the decisions, you provide them more to look forward to and to get excited about.

By all means, plan events that are flexible. If you work out a schedule that takes 4 hours to get through and after the first hour the children are bored and cranky, be willing to change in mid-stream. It simply isn't worth the hassle of making your children miserable if they dislike an activity. By preparing a backup plan in advance, you can turn a potential negative into a happy memory.

It is imperative, though, that you keep your younger children busy, because the attention span of children is notoriously short. Although you might think they will simply enjoy just hanging out, chances are they will become harder to manage if they do not have scheduled activities.

While you are on vacation or journeying to the destination itself, you should come prepared with a few items your child will enjoy. If he or she has a favorite toy or book, go ahead and bring it. You don't, for example, want them to be miserable the entire time if they miss their binky.

Be sure to pack all your daily essentials like diapers, wipes, bottles, strollers, a first aid kit, and any other reasonably-packed items that are a normal part of life at home. Some of it may be heavy, but a bag with a few of your child's most prized possessions can be a real lifesaver when you are visiting an attraction far from your hotel room.

Even if your kids are having a good time, an abrupt or nagging sickness can certainly bring that to a screeching halt. Unexpected events such as motion sickness or a fever may be unwelcomed surprises, so make sure you have access to a few standard medicines while you travel. Bring along decongestant, pain reliever, anti-nausea and anti-diarrhea medicine to help them feel better and enjoy themselves.

Vacationing with children can be exciting and fun for both you and them. But travel prepared with the mindset that not everything is likely to go the way you wish, so develop some simple backup plans in advance and keep an open mind about using them as needed.

About the Author, Ross Anderson: For information on practical travel lodging, see http://www.travel-lodgings.com, a popular site providing insights of travel stay ideas, such as Yosemite - http://www.travel-lodgings.com/yosemite-lodging.shtml, Las Vegas - http://www.travel-lodgings.com/las-vegas-vacation-homes.shtml and many more!

How To Stay Healthy While Traveling

2008-02-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

To stay healthy throughout the trip is most important or else it defeats the whole purpose of having the trip in the first place. My friends had an experience before whereby they were in another country and they eaten some seafood, which gave them mild food poisoning. They had to stay in the hotel for most part of the trip. It is very important to watch what you put into mouth especially when you are traveling. You have to take note that your body might not be accustomed to the hygiene level of the new location. It is advisable to drink bottled water when traveling as it reduces the chances of drinking contaminated water. A little caution goes a long way when you are traveling.

There is little worse than planning a long-awaited vacation only to find yourself getting sick during that intended fun time. It takes months to plan a lengthy trip, and when you become ill somewhere along the way it can ruin your time and memories.

Instead of sightseeing or lying on the beach, you are in your room alone unable to do what you want (and probably doing things in the toilet that you don't want!). Given the need to avoid illness on a trip, it is a good idea to look at a few tips on how to remain healthy while traveling.

Even when vacation plans are not under consideration, one of your life priorities should be to get in and remain in the best shape you can at all times; but before a vacation trip, this is even more imperative. Take your vitamins every day, exercise, and get your body in shape.

Having done so, then how do you remain healthy once you are at your vacation destination? It is actually fairly easy. You need to plan. Before you depart, check the climate so you pack the right types of clothing. You certainly don’t want to be stuck in a blizzard without a coat, gloves, and a hat, so travel prepared by knowing the predicted weather at your destination.

Additionally, research the particular area in which you will stay to learn whether there are drinking water restrictions. You’ll find that many people who travel to other countries wind up in bed with “Montezuma’s Revenge.” Obviously this is a very unpleasant experience that can ruin a good vacation, for sure. It would not be a bad idea to buy bottled water when you are in any country other than your own simply based on the fact that you do not know the contaminants in other nation's water supplies.

Despite precautions, you may still find water in the food you eat and ice cubes in your drinks, so caution is the byword! For hotel water or drinking water in general, you can also bring along water purification tablets to avoid drinking straight from the tap.

Another important tip is to consider what you are eating. Granted you want to splurge a bit, but it is vital that you keep your dietary restrictions prominent in your mind. If, for example, you know you can’t eat chili because it gives you severe heartburn, by all means avoid it while on vacation. It is no different with other foods that don’t sit well with you.

Just because you are in a different location doesn’t mean you can dramatically change your eating patterns without unhealthy consequences. This includes overeating as well, a common practice while on vacation.

Lastly, don't neglect to bring any prescription drugs your doctor has prescribed for you. In another country, it will likely be more complicated acquiring a dosage that covers your visit time.

Most of this is common sense. Health precautions are not complicated, and in fact are relatively easy to maintain. However, you must be alert to vacation giddiness that lets your guard go down.

If you follow these basic recommendations, you will likely remain healthy and enjoy your time away from home.

About the Author, Ross Anderson: For information on practical travel lodging, see http://www.travel-lodgings.com, a popular site providing insights of travel stay ideas, such as Yosemite - http://www.travel-lodgings.com/yosemite-lodging.shtml, Las Vegas - http://www.travel-lodgings.com/las-vegas-vacation-homes.shtml and many more!

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A Mauritius Luxury Holiday At The Shanti Ananda

2008-01-29T00:43:00.000-08:00

A Mauritius Luxury Holiday is a dream for most of us, and recently Mauritius has become a real place for a honeymoon. To honeymoon in Mauritius or to make a decision about which hotel to choose for your Mauritius Luxury Holiday can be tricky.

Shanti Ananda originated in the Himalayas as a world class destination spa which has transported itself to delightful Mauritius. Here in 36 acres at St Felix at the southern end of Mauritius, about 40 minutes from the airport, there is a heady combination of activity if you want, leisure if you don’t. There are fitness programmes, spa therapies, but the most important thing is that this is a real vacation getaway, a real escape from the pressures of life and probably one of the most perfect places to spend your honeymoon in Mauritius.

Shanti Ananda has a great choice of accommodations from forty four junior ocean view suites, then five villas with pools, and a presidential villa, with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, and surrounded by densely wooded hills.

All as you would imagine all are quite beautifully furnished and have all the modern equipment including plasma televisions and broadband internet connections.

Any honeymoon in fact any luxury holiday is made or ruined by the cuisine, and if you have chosen to honeymoon in Mauritius at the Shanti Ananda then you will be more than happy with the cuisine offered.

The spa cuisine identifies your body type and then serves you the best food for that body type. This principle strengthens the immune system and provides energy. In other words the emphasis is on good healthy food, which is made from the freshest ingredients. There is an all day dining restaurant and a specialty restaurant serving Mauritius food and International cuisine. There is also an exotic tea pavilion, with 24 hour room service, and in suite dining.

Service plays a big part in any holiday, and is to be expected on a Mauritius Luxury Holiday, and you will not be disappointed in the Shanti Ananda, because the service is exceptional, and unobtrusive. The staff are friendly and attentive, and are there when needed but disappear when not.

The huge 50,000 square foot Spa is centred round a tea pavilion and surrounded by the tropical forest, with 17 treatment rooms, and a huge variety of treatments plus a beauty and hair salon, a boutique, and a salt water pool. Even the most discerning client will be very impressed with the treatments offered.

If you choose, there is Yoga, traditional meditation, and Vedanta.

If after all the preparations for your wedding you want some leisure and nothing more from your holiday in Mauritius, then this is well catered for at the Shanti Ananda, then there are beautiful walks in the forests and the hills. You can get fit with a physical training regime, go beach combing, do aerobics, go deep sea fishing, take cookery classes, tennis classes, and golf is only ten minutes away.

The beach is lovely and very clean and protected by a long reef.

One of the great things about the part of Mauritius that the Shant Ananda is situated in is the fact that it is still undeveloped and unspoiled.

Shanti Ananda isn’t an average resort for a Mauritius Luxury Holiday or a top class Honeymoon in Mauritius, it is more than that. It is a destination on its own, and if you are searching for the perfect holiday, then look no further, it is here.

For more information on Indian Ocean Hideaways go to http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com/categories/Indian-Ocean-Hideways/

About the Author: Peter Stewart writes exclusively for http://www.in-kenyasafari.com as well as http://www.worldwidevacationspots.com and has visited personally many of the places he reports on, and has done extensive research on the others.

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Scuba Diving In Boracay Islands

2008-01-03T00:54:00.000-08:00

This is good information on diving in Boracay, in the Philippines. Boracay is a tropical island about an hour flight from Manila, Philippines. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations and its long white sand beaches rival the best beaches of more popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the South Pacific as well as neighbouring Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. I was told many times that the sand on the beaches of boracay is so fine that even when you are walking on the beaches at noon time, you will not feel the heat on your feet. One important thing to note, I do not claim that this article is 100% accurate. I just find that the information may be useful for anyone who may be thinking of a scuba diving trip in Boracay islands. Even if you do not dive, I believe there are many activities which you can immerse yourself in when you are in Boracay.

Boracay is a beautiful tropical island located at 200 miles (315km) south of Manila, the capital of the Philippines. This island resort is one of Philippines' most popular tourist destinations because it is consistently voted by popular scuba diving and travel magazines as one of the best scuba diving destinations in the world.

There are many dive centers and operators in Boracay offering diving trips to top rated but hard to reach dive sites such as those in the Sibuyan Sea, Tablas, Romblon and Semirara. Close to Boracay are also excellent dive sites catering to divers of varying diving skills. Non diver will find snorkeling in Boracay an enriching experience because of its rich and diverse marine life near the beaches.

Friday's Rock is a nearby rocky outcrop in Boracay's western shore. Expect to see a variety of brilliant colored soft and hard corals, flittering butterfly fish, curious wrasses, darting damsels, playful blue tangs, ominous stingrays and snappers when diving around Friday's rock. Hidden under the rocks, crevices and corals are big scorpion fishes and lion fishes.

There are two great dive sites near the main island of Boracay, known as Punta1 and Punta2. Punta 1 is a shallower dive of the two spots and is a drop off of about 24m (80ft) and Punta 2 starts at 30m (100ft) and goes way down to about 50m (170ft). These two dive spots are home to various species of garoupas, trigger fish, angel fish, sweet-lips, tuna, barracuda and the occasional reef shark.

At the southeast coast of Boracay is Crocodile Island (the island is named as such because of its shape). The island a very popular dive location and is a wall dive to about 25m (80ft) in depth. This dive site is also very rich in marine life so much so that many species of fish and corals make this location their permanent home.

Crocodile Island is also home to some poisonous banded sea snakes some of which are long as two meters (6.5ft) in length. Scuba divers need to be very careful of sea snakes because all sea snakes are poisonous and their bites lead to fatality.

Another great dive location near the main island is the Laurel Island. This dive site is for the more experienced and advanced divers because the undercurrent here can be very strong and because of this, drift diving is the main scuba diving activity here. Furthermore, the strong undercurrent encourages corals to open up their brightly colored yellow and orange polyps to feed on passing planktons. Divers can also find big colorful sponges and huge waving gorgonian sea fans here.

At northern tip of Boracay is a dive site known as Yapak. This is a deep wall diving location starting at about 30m(95ft) and descending into the depth of 60m (190 ft). Once again, the undercurrent here can get pretty strong. Scuba divers will encounter larger pelagic fishes here, such as barracudas and various species of sharks.

Hammerhead sharks and giant manta rays are the main attractions when diving in Yapak. Other excellent dive sites around Boracay are Carabao (buffalo), Cathedral Cave, Buruanga, Black Rock and Dog Drift. Is it any wonder why Boracay is consistently rated as one of the best scuba diving site in the world?

About the Author: Chris Chew have been scuba diving for three decades. See his travel websites at http://www.asiatravelbest.com/

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Romantic Getaways in the East Coast of Malaysia

2008-01-02T02:22:00.000-08:00

A very detail and good information from the NSMAN magazine on a different kind of Romantic getaways. Hope that this will be good information for you to plan your different kind of Romantic getaways in the East Coast of Malaysia.

Romantic getaways need not be clichéd affairs in plush resorts and posh restaurants. Take the road less travelled to the East Coast of Malaysia and experience romance of a different kind.

Pulau Perhentian

Pulau Perhentian - located off the coast of Terengganu - is a marine park divided into two islands, Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Pulau Perhentian Besar around which menagerie of aquatic life thrives.

Diving or snorkelling hand-in-hand with your loved one is a wonderful way to explore the colorful marine life. If you start off at D'Lagoon to the north of Perhentian Kecil, the currents will take you along a haven of soft and hard corals, large angelfish, parrotfish and blackspotted snappers flitting in and out of corals. Green turtles and manta rays also make occasional appearances here.

Off the west end of Perhentian Besar is another dive site for coral connoisseurs. Known as Tanjung Besi, or Iron Cape, large tracts of staghorn corals play home to shoals of gaint groupers. Humphead parrotfish frequently stop at the reef to snack on shrimps while the crevices between the corals are inhabited by large moray eels.

Must See:

The famed Long Beach at the north end of Perhentian Kecil is great for a leisurely night shore dive. Look out for blue-spotted stingrays, cuttlefish and plenty of reef fish. Also renowned for its buzzing nightlife, Perhentian Kecil has many cafes and watering holes that are open till late.

Must Stay:

Tropical Reef Chalet: Located on Perhentian Besar, it is the perfect place for peace and calm. Prices from RM 40. http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/

Petani Beach Chalet: This waterfront chalet offers gorgeous views. Prices from RM 90. http://www.pulauperhentian.com.my/

Getting There:

The only way to reach Perhentian is by sea from the Kuala Besut jetty in Terengganu. Get there by

- Road: Drive or take a bus from Singapore to Kuala Terengganu.
- Plane: Fly to the Kota Bharu airport in Kelantan.
- Rail: Take the railway train to the Tanah Merah train station in Kelantan.

Taman Negara

It's Malaysia's premier nature park which has been in existence since dinosaurs walked the earth some 130 million years ago. Lush and expansive at 434,300 hectares and stretching across three states - Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan, it will take weeks to explore the country's largest national park comprising a cornucopia of primary forests.

And what better way to embark on this grand adventure at Taman Negara than with a loved one? Take a walk through the lowlands, carpeted by verdant riverine vegetation, flanked by lush ferns and rare species of orchids. Move upland onto the intermediate slopes and find oaks and laurels. Walk further upslope for a closer view of wide palm flora.

For a masterful acrobatic performance only nature can offer, watch out for showboating primates: macaques scampering across riverbanks and nippy leaf monkeys darting and leaping from branch to branch. Families of gibbons can also be found dwelling in the midst of the forest canopy, their presence made conspicuous by sporadic echoing sreeches.

Competing with the lush forestry is Gunung Tahan, Peninsular Malaysia's highest mountain. Standing 2,187m above sea level, scaling this imposing mass is possible, especially for couples who love the outdoors. Take a canoe out on Tasik Kenyir, or pack a picnic lunch and your swimsuits for some quiet time alone. This is the perfect setting to relax and appreciate each other's company.

Must See:

With more than 250 species of birds in the park, this is the place to be for bird watching. Or head down to Lata Berkoh Cascades for a cooling swim in the deep pool below the falls before retreating to the rocky overhang for a picnic. Visit also the Orang Asli - indigenous people - settlement at Kampung Yong and the limestone cave at Gua Telinga. Carved by a stream, the cave is another fine examples of Mother Nature's art at Taman Negara.

Must Stay:

Rainforest Resort Taman Negara: Located in Jerantut, Pahang, the resort offers packaged tours of the nature park; ranging from night jungle safari to rapid shootings; from white river rafting to cave explorations; and many more. Prices from RM 207. http://www.rainforest-tamannegara.com/

Tahan Guest House: An inn situated opposite the Taman Negara nature park headquarters in Kuala Tahan, Pahang, provides visitors with an affordable, yet comfortable stay. http://www.tahan.com.my/

Getting There:

The town of Kuala Tembeling in Pahang is the transit point into Taman Negara. You can access Kuala Tembeling via road and rail.

- Road: Drive from Kuala Lumpur to Jerantut in Pahang, then, travel 16km north to Kuala Tembeling.
- Board one of the Jerantut-bound taxis at the Pudu Raya Bus Terminal in Kuala Lumpur or take a bus from the Jalan Tun Razak Bus Station in Kuala Lumpur to Jerantut before switching to a bus or taxi bound for Kuala Tembeling.
- Rail: There is a direct railway from Singapore to Kuala Tembeling. Approximately nine hours of travel.

Kota Bahru

Humming with activity and oozing rural charm, Kota Bahru is the perfect backdrop for a back-to-basics romantic adventure. For a start, explore the State Museum and the Cultural Centre and relive history by walking through the many sites located around town.

The State Museum showcases an extensive range of exhibits and documents on Kelantan's arts, crafts and musical traditions. Locally referred to as Gelanggang Seni, the Cultural Centre is akin to a history book on Kelantan's illustrious cultural legacy.

Another not-to-be missed monument is the State Mosque or Masjid Al-Muhammadi. Named after the late Sultan Muhammad IV in recognition of his contributions to the state, the mosque features elegant arches and golden-colored domes.

Round off the Kota Bahru proceedings with a visit to the Siti Khadijah Market. In the mornings, locals throng the bazaar for fruits, vegetables, freshly ground spices, dried seafood, pickles, fish-cakes, delicacies, sweetmeat and a colorful assemblage of other goods. Interestingly, the majority of the traders at the market are women.

Must See:

Check out the garishly colored fishing boats plying the rivers off the Pantai Sabak Fishing Village. The jetty is at its busiest around three in the afternoon when fishermen return with their day's catch. The beach is transformed into a marketplace, with spirited haggling of prices and fishermen sorting out their catch.

Must Stay:

Lee Guesthouse: This hostel provides sightseeing services. Prices from RM 50. http://www.hostelworld.com/

Renaissance Kota Bharu Hotel: Pamper yourself in this hotel, located in Kota Bharu's commercial and shopping district. Prices from RM 399. http://www.marriott.com/

Getting There:

Kota Bahru is accessible by road and air.

- Road: Drive from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Bahru via Pahang or take a Transnasional bus from Lavender Street in Singapore. It travels direct to Kota Bahru.
- Take a flight from Kuala Lumpur to the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport in Kelantan, then take a taxi to Kota Bahru.

Travel Notes:

- Although handshakes between men and women are acceptable, Muslim women may acknowledge introductions to men by nodding and smiling. Handshakes with men should only be initiated by the womenfolk.
- Permission should always be sought before taking any photographs at places of worship. More often than not, this is usually permitted.
- Refrain from openly displaying affection like kissing or embracing in public as personal propriety is closely observed in Malaysia.

Thailand Scuba Diving Vacation

2007-12-26T22:45:00.000-08:00

Thailand is sandwiched between The Gulf of Thailand on its eastern coastline and the vast expanse of the Andaman Sea on its western coast. It is in these body of waters that scuba divers can explore the marine life of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean without having to cross continents.

The waters in Thailand have one of the richest and diverse marine life in the world because conditions here for coral growth is almost perfect with an average temperature of 28 Degree Celsius all year round and fantastic underwater visibility.

Because of these almost ideal scuba diving conditions and attractions, the scuba diving industry in Thailand is thriving robustly with the proliferation of first class scuba diving facilities, services and diving schools.

When you throw in what the tourist industry has to offer in Thailand such as fantastic entertainment, a spread of accommodations, hotels and resorts for every budget and Thailand's renowned delightful cuisines, you can be assured of an enjoyable scuba diving vacation.

The Gulf of Thailand has hundreds of islands on its 1,840km (1,143 miles) long coast. The gulf is a shallow bowl shaped body of water separated from the South China Sea by a pair of underwater ridges that extend from Vietnam on one side and Malaysia to the other.

The sea bed bottom here is mostly mud mixed with sand and shells. Corals are usually found around the fringes of the gulf islands. There are several rivers in the north bringing enough sediment and freshwater to inhibit coral growth until to the south or the eastern side of the Gulf of Thailand.

The underwater scenery in the gulf is perhaps not as visually appealing as those of the Andaman Sea as it has slightly less variety of marine life. Marine parks such as the Ang Thong Marine Park include spectacularly formed limestone islands with lush rainforest covering them and many of these islands are actually uninhabited.

World famous resorts of Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui offer excellent scuba diving facilities as well as other reacreations and entertaiment.

The Andaman Sea was already thriving thousands of years ago with Chinese, European, Thai and Indian trading vessels plying its waters. Today, the Andaman Sea is more of a playground for dive boats and sailing yachts rather than for trading vessels.

One of the better known playgrounds for divers in the Andaman and is often rated amongst the top scuba diving destinations in the world are the Similan Islands. Divers can explore Similan, the Surin Islands and the Mergui Archipelago in liveaboard diving cruises.

Thailand's Andaman Sea stretches 870km (541 miles) from Tarutao National Park on the border of Malaysia to the Surin Islands on the border of Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). It is part of the Indian Ocean and is separated from the Bay of Bengal by the Andaman-Nicobar Ridge. Quaint formations of granite outcrops can be senn in the Surin and Similan Islands.

Other island groups such as Koh Phi Phi are shaped by massive limestone and calcium carbonates since prehistoric time.

The only problem when you travel to Thailand for scuba diving is where to start your diving vacation since there are so many excellent dive spots to choose from and you will be spoilt for choice.

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About the Author: Chris Chew runs a travel information website at http://www.asiatravelbest.com/

Great Places To See In India, Sri Lanka, Singapore And Malaysia

2007-09-28T05:15:00.000-07:00

Pretty good travel information and tip for the above mentioned countries. Personally, I am from Singapore and so I have added some more information which I hope might be useful to you. If you have any information or tips which you want to add for the respective countries, do feel free to do so in the comment. This will serve as very good information for people who will be reading this article. Thank you.

India

Come to the land of mysticism and modernity. Must visits include Rajasthan with its splendid forts and palaces. Enjoy desert Safari at Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer. Ride on top of the camels and live in nomad style tents with all modern amenities. Don’t forget to carry your own sunscreen and bottle of water.

Come; see the Taj, the gift of eternal love from an Emperor for his beloved Empress, one of the 7 wonders of the world. Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in Agra. There are many other forts and palaces built by the Emperor all across Agra and the national capital, Delhi .

Known for its beautiful beaches and churches, Goa is a traveler’s paradise. There are many water sports activities and the food is extremely cheap. There are many places to visit and things to do in Goa.

There are many domestic no frills airlines which fly to most cities in India. Goa, Agra and Jaisalmer are well connected by flights. India is serviced by most international airlines and has a great well connected train network. There is a range of hotels to choose from. Budget hotels are clean, neat and offer many facilities to the foreign traveler. While the top end hotels offer the best in accommodating, dining and ambience. Apart from local food, you can find restaurants that serve Italian, Chinese, Thai and other foods. Always carry your own bottle of mineral water and lots of sunscreen lotion. The best time to visit India is the winter months from November to March.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka also known as Ceylon, Pearl Of orient is a Buddhist country and has some of the most beautiful Buddhist sites. The beaches are splendid as it’s an island nation, but the hills are very beautiful. Enjoy the tea plantations which are based in the South and the East of the country. The Ceylon tea as is popularly known is enjoyed by connoisseurs all over the world.

Places to visit include Colombo, which is the largest city and a very colorful city. The mosques and temples are very pretty and definitely worth a look. Kandy is one of the most sacred cities. The Octagonal Dalada Maligawa temple houses the sacred tooth of Buddha. Visitors can see the daily homage procession of monks clad in white carrying lotus blossoms. The city is old Buddhist capital and is steeped in history.

Sri Lanka has a great climate all year round. Visitors will find the locals as gracious hosts and the food is also cheap. The local food includes a lot of seafood and is very delicious. There are many restaurants that serve other cuisines and are very easy to find. Don’t forget to try the local “kasippu”(booze of the working class). It can be quite potent so be careful.

Singapore

The city nation is a very modern with huge towers that house huge malls, offices and great penthouses. Singapore is a global city and much of its population is European, Indian and Chinese. It has beautiful temples and Churches. Raffles Hotel is upmarket hotel named after the founding father of Singapore. Visit Singapore at any time of the year and as it has the same climate round the year. But time your visit around religious festivals or shopping festivals.

(Most of the Singapore population is made up of Chinese, Malay, Indian, Eurasian and other minority. With recent encouragement from the local government for foreign talents, we are seeing more and more different nationalities in the small country. Basically as what the author mentioned, you can visit Singapore all year round as the weather is always hot and wet throughout the whole year.

Usually you can expect more rainfall towards the end of the year to the start of the year till about February. The hot weather will start from March all the way till about August. From there onwards, the weather would be slightly cooler. However, in Singapore, the weather changes very fast; at one moment it might still be hot and sunny but rain falls the next moment.)

A great time to visit is the Christmas time where the entire Orchard Road is lit up. There are great bargains on shopping especially during the shopping festivals held in June and August. All international brands for clothing, electronics, shoes, home products are present in Singapore. Shopping in Singapore is more expensive than in the rest of Asia.

(Christmas is a great time to visit with great shopping as most mall will extend their operating hours. You will see the main roads in the shopping areas and malls beautifully decorated with Christmas lightings.

The Chinese New Year would also be a good time to visit as you can expect all kinds of goodies and food in Chinatown. The dates of the Chinese New Year follow the lunar calendar and thus changes every year. Therefore if you plan to visit Singapore during the Chinese New Year, you got to find out when is the period. For the Chinese, they celebrate the Chinese New Year elaborately. For the Malay and Indian, which are the other two main group of races in Singapore, they celebrate their new year at different time of the year too.

And if you like shopping, usually the best time to visit Singapore would be in June where we would be having the Great Singapore Sales every year.

One important event for you to take note is the F1 race in Singapore coming in September 2008. Watch out for it.)

Enjoy the local food all over Singapore. The food is delicious, cheap and very hygienic. There are many restaurants that attract the best chefs from all over the world. The hotels are clean and offer many amenities. You can find great deals and even the three star hotels are clean having all modern amenities. Singapore is serviced by all international airlines and also by Singapore Airlines.

(Truly, one activity that you can do all day and all night is eat. In Singapore, you can expect a variety of food ranging from Chinese to Malay to Indian food. The best places to find good food are not necessary in the hotels. You can find good food, depending on your preference, almost anyway in Singapore. However, you will need a good guide or someone you know to bring you around to taste the different food in Singapore.)

There are many places to visit and you can pickup great bargains for knick knacks at the Arab Quarter, Chinatown and Little India. Use your bargaining skills and learn to bargain like locals to find the things that you are looking for. Most shopping malls have fixed prices. The Singapore Zoo, Sentosa Island with its Underwater World and Jurong Bird Park is a must on every traveler’s list. The public transport is very efficient and economical and includes city buses, the Underground metro and local taxis. English is well spoken and understood as it’s an international city.

Malaysia

Malaysia is truly a beautiful country. The country has progressed in the last few decades after its Independence in 1957. The country has one of the finest beaches, mountains and tourist spots in the world. The country is well serviced by all international airlines and Malaysian Airlines that flies to most destinations around the world. The Malaysian society is a mix of the Malay, Chinese and Indian.

Kuala Lumpur or KL as its popularly known, boasts of the Petronas Twin Towers, one of the tallest skyscrapers in Asia. It houses the Petronas Company and other multinational companies. Entry for visitors is free but only a 1700 free visitor passes are given out on first come first basis each day. It’s closed on Monday and the visitors are allowed only till the 41st floor.

Langkawi is an island off the coast of mainland Malaysia. You can reach here by a 45 minute ride on a ferry or fly out from KL. All domestic airlines service this small island. Most international chains of Hotels are present on the Island. While on the Island there are plenty of water sports activities and bargain shops for the shop-a-holics. The wildlife is abundant here and most of the hotels built almost inside the once pristine forests. It’s a duty free centre and most of the daily use stuff is quite cheap and readily available. The cable car ride at Mat Chinchang Mountain is a must when you are here.

Malaysia is a modern country, though its quite traditional with 90% population being Muslims. Wear covered clothes when visiting mosques and other religious places of interest.

About the Author: Alex J Smith writes for Datravelers.com It's a website where travelers can host their own travel blogs, upload photos and find unbiased travel information.

The World's Greatest Building, Structures in Biscuits

2007-08-15T05:14:00.000-07:00

Something interesting which I captured on my Sony mobile phone when I was in the shopping mall today. I bet some of you will have seen some of these world's greatest building, structures etc. But something like this? Will you be tempted to take a bite? I have to warn you first, the biscuits used to make all these building, structures etc had been chemically treated and not for consumption.

Tower Bridge is a combined bascule and suspension bridge in London, England over the River Thames. It is close to the Tower of London, which gives it its name. It has become an iconic symbol of London and is sometimes mistakenly called London Bridge, though London Bridge is in fact the next bridge upstream. Tower Bridge is owned and maintained by Bridge House Estates, a charitable trust overseen by the Corporation of London. The Tower Bridge has stood over the River Thames in London since 1894 and is one of the finest, most recognisable bridges in the World. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tower_Bridge

The Petronas Twin Towers (also known as the Petronas Towers or Twin Towers), in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, were the world's tallest towers from 1998 to 2004, if measured from the level of the main entrance to the structural top. Petronas Towers were the tallest buildings in the world until the Taipei 101 building, as measured to the top of their structural components (spires, but not antennas). Spires are considered integral parts of the architectural design of buildings, to which changes would substantially change the appearance and design of the building, whereas antennas may be added or removed without such consequences. The Petronas Towers remain the tallest twin buildings in the world.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petronas_Twin_Towers

The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum located in Agra, India. The Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned it as a mausoleum for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Construction began in 1632 and was completed in approximately 1648. Some dispute surrounds the question of who designed the Taj Mahal; it is clear a team of designers and craftsmen were responsible for the design, with Ustad Ahmad Lahauri considered the most likely candidate as the principal designer.

The Taj Mahal (sometimes called "the Taj") is generally considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements of Persian, Turkish, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. While the white domed marble mausoleum is the most familiar part of the monument, the Taj Mahal is actually an integrated complex of structures. In 1983 the Taj became a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was cited as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taj_Mahal

The Great Pyramid of Giza is the largest in Egypt and one of the largest in the world. Until Lincoln Cathedral was built in 1300, it was the tallest building in the world. The base is over 13 acres in area.

There is no trace of any hyerogliphics or any markings of any kind on either the pyramids or the sphinx, nor has any treasure ever been found or claimed to have been discovered from the interior of the pyramids. The Sphinx, along with the sprawling sphinx temple, valley temple, and the base of the pyramids, were all built using 200 ton blocks. No one to this day knows how these massive monuments were built, nor can the time period they were first created be verified.

It is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the only one of the seven to survive into modern times. The Ancient Egyptians capped the peaks of their pyramids with gold and covered their faces with polished white limestone, though many of the stones used for the purpose have fallen or have been removed for other structures over the millennia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyramid

The Eiffel Tower is an iron tower built on the Champ de Mars beside the River Seine in Paris, France.

The Parisian landmark is the tallest structure in Paris and one of the most recognized structures in the world. Named after its designer, engineer Gustave Eiffel, 6,719,200 people visited the tower in 2006 and more than 200,000,000 since its construction. This makes the tower the most visited paid monument in the world per year. Including the 24 m (79 ft) antenna, the structure is 324 m (1,063 ft) high (since 2000), which is equivalent to about 81 levels in a conventional building.

At the time of its construction in 1887, the tower replaced the Washington Monument as the world's tallest structure, a title it retained until 1930, when New York City's Chrysler Building (319 m — 1,047 ft tall) was completed. The tower is now the fifth-tallest structure in France. The Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris, with the second-tallest being the Tour Montparnasse (210 m — 689 ft), although that will soon be surpassed by Tour AXA (225.11 m — 738.36 ft).

The structure of the Eiffel Tower weighs 7,300 tons. Depending on the ambient temperature, the top of the tower may shift away from the sun by up to 18 cm (7 in), due to thermal expansion of the metal on the side facing the sun. The tower also sways 6-7 cm (2-3 in) in the wind. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eiffel_Tower

The Great Wall of China (Simplified Chinese: 长城; Traditional Chinese: 長城; literally "Long wall") or (Simplified Chinese: 万里长城; Traditional Chinese: 萬里長城; literally "The long wall of 10,000 Li (里)" is a series of stone and earthen fortifications in China, built, rebuilt, and maintained between the 5th century BC and the 16th century to protect the northern borders of the Chinese Empire during the rule of successive dynasties. Several walls, referred to as the Great Wall of China, were built since the 5th century BC, the most famous being the one built between 220 BC and 200 BC by the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang. That wall was much farther north than the current wall, built during the Ming Dynasty, and little of it remains.

The Great Wall is the world's longest human-made structure, stretching over approximately 6,400 km (4,000 miles) from Shanhai Pass in the east to Lop Nur in the west, along an arc that roughly delineates the southern edge of Inner Mongolia. It is also the largest human-made structure ever built in terms of surface area and mass. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Wall_of_China

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No 1 selling destination New York City in Viator

2007-08-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

For the most part, New Yorkers--both born and bred, and those who have adopted it as their home--believe Manhattan is the center of the universe. In their minds, no city is as vibrant, culturally flush, fashion-forward, nor has a comparable restaurant/nightlife scene. While this New York-centricity may be grating, the truth is they’re kinda right. With its history, iconic buildings and architecture, never-ending arts, diversity of cultures and neighborhoods, and wealth of things to do, Gotham is undoubtedly among the top metropolises in the world. Simple advice for visitors: pack comfortable shoes and prepare to go, go, go.

Traveling to New York City? Check out Viator's suggested itineraries to help plan your upcoming trip.

Family Travel Tip: 7 Ways To Make Traveling With Your Kids Easier

2007-07-23T21:23:00.000-07:00

It’s family vacation time and while it’s great to get away and have a wonderful time together, these trips can also be a nightmare for adults when children become restless and bored.

Kids see the world different than adults and will often have various reactions to the sites and sounds around them. If you are traveling in a plane or car, you will especially want to keep your children preoccupied to prevent them from acting up.

Here are some ways to ensure your family vacation travel goes smoothly.

1) Plan your trip ahead of time – the old “get in the car and let’s go” may be great for people without children, but taking your kids on a long trip requires more planning. When taking a car trip, you’ll need to map out a route where there are plenty of rest stops along the way.

Children need to get out of the car to stretch their limbs and let out all that cooped up energy.

2) Expect frequent bathroom breaks and lots of questions – “I’ve gotta go to the bathroom” and “Are we there yet” are classic things that you will hear your kids say over and over again. Instead of being annoyed, know ahead of time that this is going to be a normal part of the trip, so don’t take it out on the kids. Remember, they have smaller bladders than adults and shorter attention spans.

You could have a come back line like: “No, we’re not there yet, but here’s something I bet you don’t know about . . .”

3) Bring along some entertainment – a great travel tip for child fun is to bring along some travel games that will keep your kids preoccupied for long stretches of time. Make sure to bring a variety of games since kids get bored easily with a single game. Something that challenges their mind is excellent. Portable video games are a natural for the younger crowd.

Skip the fiction books and coloring books since these will make your kids car sick.

4) Bring snacks – make sure to pack plenty of healthy snacks so you can dole them out along the way when the kids say they’re hungry. This gives you more control over what they eat during the trip, then say, stopping at a gas station and grabbing a greasy hot dog and sugary soda.

You could bring along your own granola snack bags with raisins, nuts, dried fruit, etc. Also juice boxes are perfect for long trips. If you like to bake, then homemade cookies and brownies are always appreciated. And that old staple, the pack and go sandwich is still a winner.

5) Bring along a babysitter – invite a family member or friend to come along - someone who can be responsible for the kids while you take a much needed break. Make sure it’s someone the kids know and feel comfortable being around.

6) Take it Easy on the Activities – once you’ve arrived at your destination, it’s tempting to try and pack your schedule with a full day of activities. The problem with this idea is that your young children will get tired out and become cranky. You want your kids to be able to enjoy the experience and have good memories, which they can’t do if they are worn out.

Older children may not wish to do everything that you want to do. If they are teenagers, try and give them some time and space to do their own thing. Remember, this vacation is for them to get away from it all and have some fun too

7) Keep younger children on a regular sleep schedule – children will naturally want to stay up later while on vacation, but remember that they may get cranky if they don’t get enough sleep. You’ll want to let them stay up maybe an hour or so after their normal bedtime, but then let them know it’s time to hit the sack.

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About the Author: Nikki LeRoi, Cruise the beautiful Hawaiian Islands – even if you’re on a budget
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Great Tourist Attractions In New York

2007-05-28T06:32:00.000-07:00

When you are looking into planning your next vacation New York is definitely a destination that you should be considering. There are many wonderful sites to see while visiting New York and the following will give you a few suggestions for places to visit during your vacation.

If you would like to get a world-class view of New York then you must visit the top of the Empire State Building. A couple of tips that can make your visit even more enjoyable: First of all keep track of what the weather will be like when you plan to visit as the best views from the top of this famous building is on a clear day. If you would like to save some time, you should purchase your tickets online. Just select the day that you are going to visit and as soon as you are able to get through security, you can bypass the ticket line and head straight for the lines to get on one of the elevators. The observatory opens at 8am and closes at midnight with the last elevator descending at around 11:15pm so the Empire State Building is a good attraction to fit in either at the beginning or ending of your site seeing day.

The Statue of Liberty is another must see attraction while sight seeing in New York. This ever-enduring symbol of freedom is a fun way to learn more about the history of the United States. Plan to arrive early when you visit the Statue of Liberty, this way you will have a much better chance of avoiding long lines. You should pack your own lunch, as there are plenty of spaces available to have a picnic. In addition, if you will be spending a bit of time outdoors so make sure that you dress appropriately. If you are vacationing and on a bit of a budget then you will definitely want to take the Staten Island Ferry when you visit that Statue of Liberty, it's free.

Central Park is another great stop on a trip through New York. You could enjoy a picnic or a boat ride or simply just talk a stroll through the beautiful park. A few notable spots in this famous park include Central Park Zoo which is a great alternative for families that do not want make the journey to the equally popular Bronx Zoo. Strawberry Fields Pictures is a gorgeous living tribute to John Lennon. You can see beautiful Imagine Mosaic and over one hundred different species of plants here. Shakespeare in the Park holds performances at the Delacorte theater in Central park all throughout the summer. You will not be disappointed taking in a show.

These are just three of the great attractions that New York has to offer its visitors each and every day. The internet is an excellent place to locate even more great attractions and events going on through out the year that would make your vacation to New York even more memorable. No matter what you decide to do or what time of the year you choose to visit you are bound to have a fun and exciting vacation.

About the Author: Adrian Kennelly is the webmaster of DirectoryGold Web Directory. Visit it for links to sites on the United States and New York City and articles on Travel and Leisure

Phuket Here I Come

2007-04-16T05:40:00.000-07:00

We only decided to go for a trip in Phuket, Thailand in March and since we were not planning to join any tour, I felt a little stress; how am I going to plan for this trip. I had never done anything like this; planning for an free and easy trip.

The thing to settle was to decide the exact date which we would be taking the trip. It was a little challenging since I am in Singapore and she is in Bangkok and we had to match our schedule. However, it was not difficult to decide on the date.

After we decided on the date of travel, I booked her a round trip domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket and gotten my own air ticket to Phuket. Booking the tickets was not such a difficult task; the difficulty was booking the hotel room. How was I going to book the hotel. I had no idea where to start. Luckily I have a friend who is a pretty experience free and easy traveler. She guided me to a few website to search for hotel. One of them is http://www.hoteltravel.com/.

From her guidance, it was not too long that I become quite an expert searching for hotel online. All I needed to do was to search for 'hotel in Phuket' in the Yahoo! Search Engine. Through my research for hotel online, I found that the rate given by Hotel Travel is the best. Not only that, it gives a map of the beach where I will be going to and the exact location of the hotel. Thus even before I went to Phuket. I already had an idea where the hotel will be and how long it would take to travel from the airport to the hotel. Hotel Travel also provides reviews for the different hotels by their customers. I found these reviews pretty useful as it helped me to decide on what to expect from each hotel. For anyone who is booking your hotel online, you can start by doing a search in the search engine in the location where you will be heading to.

The dates that we were traveling to Phuket, April 8 to April 12 were considered high season for some hotels because of the Thailand's Songkran Festival and most of the hotels which I wanted to book were fully booked. Did not know what to do except to put ourselves on the waiting list. The worst scenario was to change the date of travel. I did not really want to change the date of travel as I really looked forward to meeting her in person.

We were very fortunately that after a day or so, we got a confirmation from Hotel Travel for our hotel. I could not be more excited; finally everything was going on as planned.

Phuket here I come!!!

Traveling with Pet

2007-03-23T12:29:00.000-07:00

Something which I received through my email. I find this quite useful tips especially if you will be traveling with your pet.

Pets have special needs when they travel, so planning ahead is essential. This advice can help you make sure your pet is prepared to travel long distances locally.

Taking your pet on a holiday

Your pet should be wearing a collar with its name and your contact number on it. In Australia we use the microchip system, which is highly effective and recommended. Recently laws have changed and it is illegal to have unchipped animals. If your dog is returned to the rspca or to the local vet, they can scan the microchip and find your contact details. This is really important as your pet may become disorientated or panic and run away or get lost.

Car Sickness

In particular if your pet is a kitten or a puppy they won’t have traveled in a car before so its a good idea to get them used to the feeling. To do this take them for short rides. Use this experience to familiarize them with where they sit in the car. If your dog or cat is particularly anxious in the car bring there bed or basket so that they can settle down in there own space in the car.

Some people prefer to use carriers for there pets especially on long drives, put something of your pets inside the carrier to reinforce that traveling is a postive experience. Sometimes using a small treat to get them comfortable in the carrier can be helpful. Don’t feed your pet right before leaving. Feed the night before as this will mean your pets stomach is settled. If you travel with your pet regularly and they have persistent carsickness your vet might prescribe motion sickness medication. To combat motion sickness and travel fatigue in your pet remember to give them frequent stops at parks so they can walk around go to the toilet.

At these stops it is better to walk your pet on a lead as they might be disorientated and run off. If you are intending to take your pet on a long plane journey and know it is very anxious then you may be able to speak to your vet about having a tranquilizer prescribed.

Packing for your pets holiday

Before leaving home you need to pack some practical things like a water dish, feed dish, plastic bags, a lead and your pets favorite blanket or perhaps a favorite toy to make the journey a lot more comfortable. If you pet requires any medication remember to carry this. If your move is permanent you can arrange to get a copy of your pets records from your vet so that you can give these to the vet in your new area.

Search for pet friendly accommodation

If you are going on a long journey use the internet to search for pet friendly hotels or camping along the way. This is also a good reason to have your pets health documentation with you, as campgrounds, hotels or kennels will need to see these before they allow your pet to stay.

Taking The Family On Holidays

2007-03-23T02:05:00.000-07:00

Avid travelers are full of wanderlust and refuse to give up their love for exploring the world, even when busy raising a family. And why should they? Traveling with children can be a joy and taking the family on holidays near and far can produce a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

It’s true, however, that enjoying a vacation with kids is a bit different than an all-adult excursion. That’s not necessarily a bad thing! Traveling with children requires a bit more thought and you may be slightly restricted as to your choice of destination. But all the other perks of introducing your children to different world cultures far outweigh the sacrifices you may need to make until they grow up and you can venture off on your own once again.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Family

Where you choose to take your family on holiday can depend on lots of factors including your preference of activities, like sightseeing, sporting/active pursuits, cultural opportunities, and so forth. Begin your search for a good holiday destination by considering the things you’d like to do while you’re away from home. These may be activities you enjoy on a regular basis or things you rarely get to do except when you’re on vacation. Are you:

• An adventurous family? If so, choose a destination where you can participate in fun and daring activities like trekking, climbing, diving, jet boating, and camping under the stars. (Provided the age of your children can support these activities.) You may be just the right family for an African safari or a trip to South America’s Andes Mountains. Closer to home, your family may be ideal for a camping trip through the National Parks or a whitewater rafting trip down the Colorado River.

• An artsy, cultural family? If so, select a vacation destination that can provide your fill of cultural activities. Big cities are always ideal, because you can usually find plenty of museums, theaters, concert venues, and such. Try one of the great cities of North America, like New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, Toronto, or Vancouver. Or, if you prefer, choose a wonderful, historic European city, like London, Rome, Paris, Amsterdam, Prague, Moscow, Barcelona, or Budapest. All have something a little different to offer.

• A fun-loving family? If so, you’ll want to travel to a destination where your family can play together from morning ‘til night. Maybe you enjoy amusement and water parks, taking in a local major league sporting event, playing volleyball on the beach, tobogganing through the snow, or taking part in fun and unique local festivals. There are a number of wonderful places for fun-seeking families to visit including resorts like Walt Disney World or the other Disney properties, the wacky beaches of Southern California, or even a quaint ski village in the Alps. The beauty of being a fun-loving family is that you can probably turn just about any vacation into a rollicking good time for all!

Age-Appropriate Holidays

The ages of your kids will help determine where you head for your next holiday. Teenagers can do just about anything….but will they? Be sure you allow your fickle teenager to be a part of the planning so that when you arrive at your destination, they’ll be looking forward to participating in the activities they’ve read about during the planning process. Be ready to compromise. Your teen’s first choice may not be yours, but perhaps you can find a destination that has a little something for both of you.

Traveling with elementary school-aged children can be a treat! Unlike their teen counterparts, they’re excited about everything, eager to learn, and willing to try new things. Kids from about age 7 to 12 are the easiest with whom to travel as they’ll make the most of their new adventures.

Trips with babies and toddlers can be challenging. There’s so much to plan before you depart and it often seems as if you need to carry the entire house with you on your trip. Remember, unless you’re going to a third-world country, you can buy diapers and other essentials when you reach your destination. Pack lightly and choose a simple destination, like a beach, where you can enjoy fun in the sun. All-inclusive resorts, found in places like the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, often have special programs for toddlers and also offer certified in-room babysitting services so that parents can enjoy a dinner or evening alone.

Remember not to push your kids too far. Little ones have a limit. So do teenagers. When you’re tempted to do just one more museum or spend just a half-hour more in the sun, consult your kid. If they’ve already said they’re tired or hot or cold, call it a day. Your trip will run much more smoothly when your children are happy.

Food

While domestic travel rarely presents a problem when it comes to food – even for the pickiest of eaters – international destinations where the food is “foreign” can be a real challenge for parents traveling with children.

Even the well-traveled child has likes and dislikes and you can’t expect your child to go without a meal. That’s why it’s always best to bring along a few staples just in case. Peanut butter is always a good bet, as is cereal, especially the small boxes that fit easily in your suitcase. Crackers work well, too. Any of those foods can be eaten at any meal and their familiarity will provide comfort to a child who’s overwhelmed by the foreign-ness of the food on the table in front of them.

Also be sure that the food and water your child is consuming is safe. Kids are more prone than adults to intestinal disorders caused by impure water and other food-related concerns. There’s nothing worse than a sick kid in a foreign country!

Plan Well

Truly, good planning can be the difference between a good holiday and a disastrous one. When you’re traveling with adults, it’s okay to leave things to chance, like a hotel reservation or a train ticket. With a family, however, the more complete your plans, the better.

That doesn’t mean, of course, that you need to schedule every minute of every day. Kids are spontaneous and just when you think an activity or attraction might consume 15 minutes of your time, your children may love it and you may wind up spending an hour or two at that particular task. Go with the flow and let your children take the lead. Thanks to them, you may discover things you’d have never found on your own!

About the Author: David Beart is the owner of www.professorshouse.com. Our site covers such topics as Family Holidays, relationships, home care and other household issues.

Quick Tips For A Cheap Disney Vacation

2007-03-12T03:35:00.000-07:00

As far as family vacations are concerned, there is no worthy competitor to the best theme park destination of all time. Disney World has drawn millions of people throughout its history, and its continued commitment to customer service and expansion insures that millions more will flock to this vacation wonderland. Planning a trip to Disney World is relatively easy with the wide array of online tools available, but finding the cheapest Disney vacation options requires a little more research. Here are some simple strategies to getting the best discounts on your Disney World trip.

Do all of your research before booking your vacation. The most common mistake made by first-time Disney vacationers is allowing the excitement of their trip to lead to impulse decisions. Most reservations involved with your vacation will require some sort of security deposit. Failing to investigate all of your available options could lead to unnecessary expenses. Unfortunately, if you do find a better deal, you will likely lose your deposit from the original reservation.

Create a comprehensive budget for your vacation. It is impossible to find the best deal for your family unless you know how much you have to spend. Estimate the costs associated with all aspects of your vacation. This includes obvious categories such as lodging and travel, but should also take into account expenses associated with park admission, rental cars, dinning, souvenirs, and fun money. Remember that all of these items typically cost about 30% more in the prime Disney tourist zones. You will become a better shopper once you have an understanding of your family’s needs and financial limitations.

Consider using a Disney vacation package, but beware of the fine print. Vacation packages are a great way to streamline the costs of a Disney World vacation. Disney offers a number of different options within their “Magic Your Way” packages. Each option offers different levels of inclusive costs, such as lodging, park tickets, and meals. While this can be a great alternative to the pay-as-you-go strategy, the items included with each package tend to have strict restrictions. Make sure you are able to use all the package benefits in the time you will visit Disney. Too many people waste their money by upgrading to packages with features they will never use. This is the trap that marketers hope you will fall into – leaving hundreds of unused dollars on the table.

Explore the many different options available outside of Disney World. The area surrounding Disney world is filled with great attractions and alternative lodging options. Becoming familiar with them will open up many avenues to saving money on your vacation. Consider spending two or three days directly on-site of the park and then transferring to a cheaper off-site hotel. This will not only save you money on lodging and dinning, but it will also add some new excitement to your vacation.

Planning ahead is the most crucial part of securing the cheapest Disney vacation. It is amazing how many people simply sign up for the first package offer they find on the internet. This is not to say that these families won’t have fun, but the smart shopper can greatly enhance their vacation with a little research. If you are unfamiliar with the resources available online, or simply don’t have the time to bargain shop; then visit disneyvacationspecials.com. Here you will find all of the information you need to make informed planning decisions for your Disney World Vacation.

About the Author: Xavier Gallery, with so many things to do and places to stay at Disney World, you are bound to need the help of an expert. Disney Vacation Specials offers a comprehensive guide to saving money while maximizing your vacation at Disney World.

How To Travel Safely With Young Children When You Rent A Car

2007-03-09T05:30:00.000-08:00

Holidays are meant to be relaxing, but when you’re travelling abroad with young children and need to hire a car at the airport of your destination, you should take a few moments to read the following tips in order to guarantee a safe and comfortable journey.

The most important thing to bear in mind is to protect your children at any time inside and outside the car. Do not allow any exceptions just while you’re on holiday.

When you book your holiday car make sure to reserve a car seat in advance. Child seats are considered additional services which are offered locally, but most car hire companies do not guarantee availability of the appropriate safety seat if this service was not booked in advance. Remember that occasionally they may go quickly, especially when you’re travelling in the high season and/or school holidays.

If you travel with small babies (less than 6-8 months old) please make sure that the car hire company confirms the availability of the appropriate size for the height and weight of your baby. Many car rental companies buy child seats in bulk and offer one standard model which is generally suitable for children from 8 months to 4 years, but these seats are not adequate for babies which are not able to sit upright. If the car hire company cannot guarantee the availability of the type of child seat you require for safety reasons you should consider bringing your own restraint. There is no way of travelling safely with such small children without the appropriate car seat.

In many cases you will be responsible for installing the car seat yourself, a rent a car does not normally come with the child seat pre-installed. Most car hire companies will hand over the safety seat when you sign the car rental agreement at the airport counter. For this reason we strongly recommend to previously do some practicing at home mounting your safety seat in your own car. Most parents fit the child seat in their car only once and forget how it was done. It is very frustrating not to be able to figure out how to fit the child seat in the hire car, especially after a long journey with yelling children in a badly illuminated car park at some unknown airport.

Here are some other important tips to bear in mind when you’ve packed the car and are ready to leave the airport:

- under no circumstances should children be left in the hire car without adult supervision.

- do not install a child seat on the passenger side if it comes with an airbag or check with the car hire company how to turn the passenger airbag off.

- before driving away double check once again that the child seat is installed correctly. I case of doubts try to get advice from the local car hire supplier.

- for children under 12 years it is always safest to travel in the back seat of the car.

- modern vehicles come with child locks on the back doors. Always try to use these locks if they are fitted.

- do not store any loose items in the rental car as these may cause serious injury in case of accidents.

- keep your children out of the way of all airbags and keep toys and other objects from getting between your kids and an airbag.

- do not forget to check the child’s position throughout the journey.

Travelocity Offers Family Getaways From $478. See our list of featured family getaways!

About the Author: Rudi van der Zalm is the founder of one of Europe's most popular online car rental services who help travellers find low cost car hire in Malaga. Visit www.hispacar.com for a free online car hire quote.

Top 5 Attractions In Delhi

2007-03-05T06:45:00.000-08:00

Located on the sprawling banks of the river Yamuna, Delhi, the capital of India, represents an intriguing blend of a myriad of ancient and the modern civilizations, reflected not only in its diverse cultural heritage and historical monuments but also in the present social structure and lifestyles. The city chronicles the history of the various civilizations and dynasties that flourished here for over 3000 years. Their legacy survives in the many ancient monuments left behind by their rulers, each a chronicle of the glory of its times and a reflection of the prevailing cultures. The remains of seven distinctive capital cities can be seen here.

Here is a pick of the top five tourist attractions in Delhi:

Qutub Minar

A mammoth minaret (238 feet tall) built from the remains of 27 Hindu and Jain temples during the years 1193–1369, commemorating the victory of Qutab-ud-din over the city's last Hindu kingdom, Qutub Minar is one of Delhi’s oldest monuments. Decorated with calligraphy representing verses from the Koran, it tapers from a 50-feet diameter at the base to just 8 feet at the top. The first three floors are built with red sandstone, and the upper two with white marble.

In the same complex stands a mysterious Iron Pillar, bearing fourth-century Sanskrit inscriptions from the period of King Chandragupta II, that has intrigued scientists to no end because it has withstood centuries of climatic upheavals and remained rust-free till today. A popular legend says that if you can encircle it with your arms while standing with your back touching it, any wish will be fulfilled.

Red Fort

Popularly known as Lal Quila and built by Shah Jahan during the years1618–1647, Red Fort, with its massive sandstone walls and exquisite architecture, is the ultimate reminder of the sheer wealth, splendor and power of the Mughal Empire. There are many must-see places within the fort, resplendent with intricate decoration, with separate rooms and balconies for the womenfolk, swimming pools, and natural air conditioning. It also houses an Archaeological Museum.

Jantar Mantar

Built in 1724 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this esoteric, awe-inspiring salmon-colored stone-and-brick structure is an observatory used by the king for measuring time and calculating the positions of the stars and planets, and for prediction of eclipses. It houses multiple buildings with unique architectural combinations of geometrical forms, each meant for a specialized purpose of astronomical measurement.

Purana Qila (Old Fort)

Believed to have been built on the ruins of the ancient original city of Delhi (Indraprastha, founded in 3rd or 4th century B.C.), by the Afghan ruler Sher Shah during the years 1538–1545, the Old Fort with its massive walls and three imposing gateways gives a fair idea of its lost grandeur. It houses a small octagonal red sandstone tower, used by King Humayun as a library, the Qila-i-Kuhran Mosque, and a small archaeological museum.

India Gate

Built in sandstone, India Gate is a war memorial to commemorate the sacrifice of Indian soldiers during World War I. The sheer grandeur of the architecture of the neighboring Parliament House and Rashtrapati Bhawan must not be missed, either.

So, start planning your trip!

About the Author: By Gabriel Adams, find Budget Hotels in Delhi at http://www.budget-hotels.biz/

How to get a really Cheap Business Class Airline Ticket

2007-03-03T01:30:00.000-08:00

Being allowed to fly and stay at the front section of the plane is a dream come true for most flyers that only have an economy ticket. This is so because a regular business class ticket does not come out cheap, therefore flying will have to remain to be a dream until one can afford to purchase and avail of business class travel.

When you imagine yourself free from the crowded part of the economy class, you need not even have to worry about your face hitting the back of the seat in front of you when you lean down and fix your shoe laces or when the seatbelt sign is off. You certainly would wish you had not taken a cheap and small seat that allows you to have a single sitting position.

When you are pampered in an international flight with a deluxe service eating great gourmet meals and drinking sparkling wines you certainly are in the best hands. When you are suddenly granted access to the lounge, and savoring every minute on a comfortable seat without really spending big time on the airline ticket, then you are lucky!

Despite all the travel do you still eagerly harbor the question and hope of possibly getting a really cheap business class airline ticket; this could be your lucky day. Read on so you will know.

The first thing you need do to get really cheap business class airline ticket is to consider an all-business flight. An all-business flight is a combination of the economy class and the first-class flight. This type of flight service and accommodation is relatively new and gaining a fast popularity. It offers cheap airline tickets compared to regular business class tickets from other well-established carriers. However, it is important to note that some all-business flights are owned and controlled by large airline carriers who offer them at stiff prices. For other carriers, there is a cheap airline ticket alternative available that is offered for selected destinations with top amenities, yet they are limited.

Anther option one can possibly take is by flying off-beat. Off-bean means disregarding the giant flag carriers like American Airlines, United Airways, Delta, British, Continental, and other large airline carriers who could not offer you business value for your money. If your target is to get in to the business class seat with your cheap airline ticket, go instead for a non-American airline.

There are some airlines carried by other countries with several selections like Icelandair among others. If you are frequent flyer, try to invest on your future flights by looking for business class seats that will earn you enough mile points and avail of cheap airline tickets. But remember, in order for you to maximize these mile points, you have to use it wisely.

One last thing that will take you to business class seats with cheap airline ticket on hand is by joining the frequent flyer elite. Here, all you have to do is climb up to the elite status and avail of a cheap airline ticket on your next flight. Make sure that you will use this properly so that you can have the best savings possible.

The best way to get business class tickets at a really cheap price is within your reach. Learn these tricks and you will know what it feels like to fly business class at economy prices, that is quality service at a rice you can get.

About the Author: If you liked this article, you might also like my other must-read guide to getting cheap airline tickets. click here: http://Airline-Ticket-Guide.useful-tips.com/ Article Written By: Jed Baguio

Useful Pet Travel Tips

2007-02-27T03:36:00.000-08:00

So you are getting ready to go on that long-awaited and much-deserved vacation. If you are a proud pet owner, you have taken your pet into consideration while you planned your vacation. Or have you? Below are a few pet travel tips you may want to consider.

* Should you take your pet with you when you go off on vacation? Consider how old your pet is. He or she may be too old to travel. If you are going on a long journey or flying, your pet may not be able to handle the stress brought on by traveling long distances and long hours. It may be better to leave your pet with a friend or arrange for a professional pet care taker to take care of your pet while you are on vacation.

* If you decide to take your pet along, ensure that your pet's health is good and that he can travel. A week or two before you go on vacation, take your pet to his veterinarian for a thorough check up. You want to make sure that your pet is in the best of health when you travel.

* When traveling by car, make sure that your pet has a collar on at all times. The collar must have your pet's name, your name, your address and phone numbers. Keep in mind that when you travel with your pet in a car, your pet can easily run off while your back is turned. If your pet is wearing a collar with all the right information, whoever finds him can easily contact you for your pet's safe return. If possible, have a microchip embedded in your pet as this is one of the best ways to have a link to your pet if he ever gets lost.

* Ensure that your pet's carrier or crate is big enough for your pet. Keep in mind that your pet dog may have a hard time traveling in the car in a crate, and if your pet is a cat, your cat must be in a cage while you travel by car. If you are traveling by plane, you will be required to place your pet in a crate. Make sure to get a crate that is airline approved and is of the highest quality.

* Before leaving with your pet, groom him. Make sure your pet's claws are clipped and his fur trimmed. Pamper your pet before you embark on your vacation. Your pet will be much happier traveling if he has been groomed and is clean.

* Bring plenty of water and dried food for your pet while you are both on the road. Bring one of those traveling containers that you can use to store food and keep them cold.

Follow the simple pet travel tips mentioned above and you are guaranteed to have the most wonderful vacation with your pet.

About the Author: George Chao, Pet Travel Tips and other useful information can be found at www.digitalexcellent.com/pettravel.

Aspen Colorado Ski Resorts Shine

2007-02-24T20:15:00.000-08:00

Although our planet has some amazing mountain slopes, and snowcapped mountains can be found across the globe, from North America to Eastern Asia, few mountains can compare with the breathtaking beauty and intense energy found in Aspen, Colorado.

Many skiers today regard Aspen to be the world's ultimate ski resort. Aspen boasts some of the best skiing on earth, along with a rich history. Visitors can take in festivals, sporting events, concerts and restaurants, and brew pubs, making Aspen, Colorado a destination flocked winter skiers and summer vacationers.

Want to get in on the ultimate experience of skiing Aspen? Check out one of these resorts, listed in no particular order:

Aspen Highlands

If you are looking for accommodations with brawn and beauty, try the Aspen Highlands. Although is it part of a large resort network, the Aspen Highlands isn't caught up in tourism glam and glitter typical of the Rocky Mountain ski mecca. This place is about skiing Aspen, period. This simple philosophy makes the Aspen Highlands a favorite with locals. But just because it is low key by tourist standards, doesn't mean it isn't tough. In fact, the Aspen Highlands is consistently ranked one of the most challenging courses in the United States. This Aspen, Colorado ski resort has a number of entry-level slopes with a series of green circles, and runs below Merry-Go-Round. Best of all, you will typically see fewer than 1,000 fellow skiers spread across 790 gorgeous acres of beautiful terrain.

Aspen Mountain

Some of the region's best jumps, bumps and steeps are found at Aspen Mountain. This Aspen, Colorado ski resort is favored for Snowcat skiing on the backside of the mountain, a favorite of celebrities and stargazers alike. Aspen Mountain's easiest slopes are perfect for intermediate skiers; but if you're up for a real challenge, Aspen Mountain is a winter-white heaven that can handle anything you toss at it.

Snowmass

The monolithic giant of Aspen's four ski resorts is Snowmass. This giant sprawls over a complex landscape of peaks, ridges, open slopes and gullies that provide the greatest range of terrain. From the gentle precincts of Fanny Hill to the wide cruising expanse of the Big Burn, plus a number of steeps, skiers of all levels will fall in love with Snowmass. State-of-the-art programs and slope facilities abound at this Aspen, Colorado ski resort.

Buttermilk

Ultra smooth and very cool, Buttermilk is the smallest of the four Aspen, Colorado ski resorts, but don't let its diminutive size fool you. Buttermilk boasts a hearty 430 acres and an awesome vertical rise that extends over two thousand feet. With some of the best skiing in the region, this Aspen, Colorado ski resort demands respect. The Buttermilk distinguishes itself with a low-key terrain that offers great skiing for families and novice skiers. About seventy-five percent of Buttermilk's terrain is dedicated to beginners and intermediates. Even so, expert skiers respect the more difficult challenges that Buttermilk has to offer.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skier, you'll find a challenging, rewarding and exciting vacation at any one of the Aspen, Colorado ski resorts. Plan ahead, as some resorts sell out months in advance.

About the Author: Barbara Moore is an author for several well-known web sites, on ski trips, winter travel, and budget travel ideas topics.

Hawaii Vacation Activities - Unlimited!

2007-02-23T07:33:00.000-08:00

Yes, Hawaii is known for its great beaches. And true, there’s nothing quite like basking under the warm Hawaiian sun and feeling your cares drift away with each gentle wave that laps at your feet. But there’s a lot more to the Aloha State than soaking up some sun. You can get out and do something!

You can explore Hawaii on land, air or sea and take advantage of all the state has to offer.

For hikers, there are fabulous nature trails on every Hawaiian island, including treks for beginners and experts. On Maui, Haleakala is revered as one of the state’s best hiking spots. A favorite hike on Oahu is the 45-minute climb to the top of Diamond Head, where visitors are rewarded with sweeping views of Waikiki, Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. On the Big Island, head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and take on the Kilauea Iki Trail, a five-mile adventure that begins at the Thurston Lava Tube.

If hiking is not your thing and you would rather pedal your way through Hawaii, you will not be left out. Haleakala offers a downhill ride that is very enjoyable in both exercise and scenery. Then there is the Garden of the Gods on Lanai. This looks like the surface of the moon with very colorful rocks.

Horseback riding is always a popular outdoor activity. Enjoy "happy trails" on the Big Island, where you can be a paniolo (cowboy) for a day at places like Parker Ranch, one of the largest ranches (175,000 acres) in the United States.

There is even skiing on Hawaii. Yes, you read right, skiing! The top of Mauna Kea will usually surprise you with snow from November to April. Be prepared, however, these slopes should be reserved for the most advance skiers. Amateurs should try something else on Hawaii.

And, of course, there is the ocean. This is an area that should not be overlooked. Believe it or not, some people have gone to the island and never stepped foot in the water! Gentle waves along with the shallow water make learning how to surf at Waikiki Beach perfect. Hanauma bay offers snorkeling while off Lanai’s south shore are the Cathedrals, which is a wonderful SCUBA diving location. Deep Sea fishing can be found off Kailua-Kona and the Tuna and Marlin are ready to be caught. If you would like to kayak, head on over to Kauai and go along the Napali Coast for some breath taking views.

To see all the beauty of Hawaii from the top, try hang gliding or helicopter at one of the many providers on the island. Oahu even has skydiving to offer you. There, a licensed instructor will show you how to not panic when you jump out of a plane at 13,000 feet so you can open your shoot on time. Do not worry, though, it will be a tandem jump, and if you do go blank, the instructor will pull the cord for you.

The list of outdoor activities goes on and on: camping, hunting, clay shooting, sailing, windsurfing, jogging, whale watching, parasailing and so much more. There’s a whole world of adventure awaiting you in the Hawaiian Islands. Just go for it!

About the Author: Let David Lee show you the best Hawaiian island vacation activities and Hawaii tropical island pictures. Hawaii - Best things to do

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Spain Is A Great Tourist Destination

2007-02-18T20:45:00.000-08:00

Malaga is an ancient city that was founded by the Phoenicians and has been under the rule of many different groups of people over time. Malaga, which is located in modern day Spain, was also ruled by the Romans and the Moors. You can see the remnants of these influences all over the city and this can make for great sightseeing in Malaga. Make the most of your trip to this part of Costa Del Sol by checking out all Malaga has to offer.

You can experience the beauty of Malaga beach, as well as the shimmering nightlife. If you want a more historical or cultural tour of Malaga than you can find that too. You can visit famous old churches and fortresses to get an idea of the grand history of this place.

There is a famous Cathedral located in Malaga that used to be the site of a mosque. A cathedral was built over this location when the Catholic Kings took over this region of Spain. This cathedral was not completed until 1728 and you can see the variety of architectural styles that have shaped the development of this building.

You can also visit La Inglesia del Sagrario if you want an example of a beautiful gothic church. This church was also built over the site of a mosque. This church was made in 1448 and also has many beautiful pieces art within the church including sculptures and reliefs.

To see a beautiful example of an Andalusian Baroque church then you’ll want to visit the Santuario de la Virgen. You can find the tombs of the Counts of Buena Vista in this impressive old church.

You can visit the Diocesal Museum in Malaga for a sampling of beautiful religious art pieces. There is also the museum of Popular Art and Culture, as well as the Museum of Arts where you can see pieces from several different Spanish artists. This museum is housed in an old palace.

If you want to see the famed King’s Palace called Alcazaba then you are in the right spot. This was built in the eleventh century and contains a museum full of archealogical treasures. There are also the ruins of a Roman theatre located on the premises. You can feel free to stroll through the gardens as well.

After you’ve seen the palace you can head on over to the Castillo de Gibralfaro. This structure was originally built by the Phoenicians. The Moors also built a fortress there in the fourteenth century where you are free to tour and look around.

In the summertime there are many different music festivals for you to enjoy, such as the Feria de Verano which happens in the third week of August. This is a festival dedicated to Flamenco music and dance and there is also a wonderful parade of horses.

You can also enjoy Flamenco music almost any time of year in Malaga. If you check out the promenade near the sea then you can go to a few different bars and clubs that play live music. You are free to enjoy a drink on a terrace and soak in the local flavor. If you go to the Malaguenta part of town you’ll be able to enjoy the best in modern nightlife.

When you want to savor some delectable Mediterranean style food than look no farther than Malaga. The menu is rich with seafood and fresh shrimp dishes that are sure to excite your palate. You can also savor a lovely bowl of Gaspastcho while you are in town!

About the Author: Peter J. Wilson publishes essentially for http://www.alicante-spain.com, a website on Costa del Sol. His abstracts on Malaga are published on his website.

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Torrevieja Is One Of The Most Beautiful Regions In Spain

2007-02-18T19:56:00.001-08:00

Torrevieja in the Beautiful Alicante Region

Torrevieja is by far one of the most desired destinations for a vacation in Spain. This lovely city is located only 50 km from the Alicante airport, so getting there is a breeze. You can easily take a bus from the airport to your hotel, and some hotels even provide free pickup service at the airport.

You have a number of options in finding a hotel in Torrevieja. A travel is always a good standby for getting a hotel anywhere, and they can frequently offer packages that offer savings if you bundle your airfare with your hotel. Since this is a popular destination, you will want to do this well in advance of your travel times.

If someone has recommended a good place to stay, why don't you call that hotel directly? Many times hotels have offers that they don't advertise, but can make available for those who contact them in advance.

However, if you don't know where to stay, you may want to do a little research and read reviews on different hotels in the area. These are readily available on the Internet, and using the star system, you can tell what type of hotel you are considering. A three star hotel is a basic accommodation, a four star will be better quality and a five star hotel will be a top luxury hotel. You should also try to find reviews by guests who have stayed at the hotel. Then you can go on the hotel's site and look at actual pictures of the rooms and the amenities.

The four and five star hotels are usually the ones that are located to the beaches or other attractions. Since they are luxury hotels, you can be sure of finding many special amenities such as an in house restaurant or bar, baby sitting services, laundry services, health club, pool, spa, hairdressers and other such luxuries. Of course, all of these features come at a price.

The smaller, less expensive hotels are further from the beach and do not offer as many services. But if you want good, clean accommodations at a reasonable rate, they are a very good choice.

Your decision on a hotel may depend on the length of you stay. A short stay may warrant a splurge in a fine hotel. But if you are going to be staying a while, you may want to cut your expenses by staying at a modest hotel.

It will also depend on what you plan to do during your stay. If you want to spend all of your time at the beach, paying the higher rate to be close may be worthwhile. But if you plan on traveling around and will not spend much time in your room, you may not care to spend on luxuries you will not be using.

About the Author: Jack Blacksmith repeatedly creates publications on information on Spain and Alicante. You can find his work on Torrevieja hotels over at http://www.alicante-spain.com.

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What Is It Like To Take New York Cruises?

2007-02-17T23:20:00.000-08:00

Imagine the quiet calm waters on a silent sail while viewing the panoramic view of New York, Manhattan, and the Harbor; few sights are as breath-taking. New York cruises aren’t hard to come by, actually they are dime a dozen, if you’re willing to take your chances with some unknown charter. The experience of being off the coast of one of the most beautiful cities in the world doesn’t have to be tarnished. Several things have to be taken into consideration before leaving shore. Of these include the vessel of choice, the crew, event packages, and of course the route the vessel will travel all important factors to consider.

New York cruises are highly dependant on the vessel, yachts being the preferred method of travel. A large yacht may be needed for large parties, checking that they have the latest in security measures and top of the line equipment to prevent some nautical mishap. Yachts come in various sizes, though for the greatest experience you’ll probably want to go with three level deck with dining floor and expansive windows so no one’s view is obscured.

The ship is only as good as its crew, so checking with the captain and his crew to ensure they are fully trained is an important part of any trip. The staff on board the ship should be able to cater to your wishes while ensuring your safety. New York cruises are not a matter to take likely, an unprepared crew could ruin all your evening’s plans with a simple accident.

Event packages should be able to cover corporate events, awards ceremonies, private family events, and quiet secluded dining. The atmosphere and elegant fine dining are important parts of any cruise. The yacht should offer the various amenities found with any premier establishment: enough seating for you and your guests, wet bar, and a large dance floor. Custom catering and DJ setup are options one should consider before booking any company.

The route of any ship is an important factor is a trip around New York should visit the key spots around the city. A cruise company with several locations is preferred so you can easily access the yacht. New York cruises should have the option of scenic tours of the bay, the Manhattan skyline, and New York itself.

New York Cruises invites all aboard its world-premiere yacht with locations in Manhattan, Connecticut, Brooklyn, and New York harbor waters. They take care to exceed all U.S. Coast guard safety regulations and fully insulate their fleets to be sound proof and provide a gentle, smooth sail. Visit Captain Fred Ardolino and his crew at http://www.nycruises.com and see how they can setup an experience of New York on the waters.

About the Author: IPRWire Staff Writer, The Atlantis of New York Cruises strives to meet the expectations of its clients. For more information about NY’s newest dinner cruise yacht visit www.nycruises.com.

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Traveling Tips in Europe

2007-02-17T00:37:00.000-08:00

Europe has always been a dream destination for tourists. With high skyscrapers, world’s most beautiful beaches and rich cultural legacy, there is nothing more to desire from a perfect getaway destination. Majority European countries have world’s popular cities that individually are a star attraction as hottest tourism spots. Among the numerous cities located in different countries of Europe each one is a favorite tourist destination. But some of those that deserve special mention are inevitably Paris, London, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Florence, Dublin, Venice, Edinburg, Istanbul, Nice, Lisbon, Berlin and Madrid. All these are the top cities in Europe and are very beautiful, charming and inviting to its visitors.

Paris, being the capital of France has an exceptional atmosphere, a unique spectacular range of monuments and endless historical sights. All these are absolutely worth visiting. Paris is undoubtedly one city that will seduce you to fall in love on first sight. Another city adored by tourists in France is Nice. The city is situated near the Mediterranean Sea and provides great range of visitor attractions and activities. Numerous beautiful sights and the Mediterranean beaches make the city a charming place.

The city - Cannes famous for its Film Festival is located here in France. But there is more to it than the just the film attraction. Cannes has an excellent climate, that is typical of the French Riviera and many other phenomena to keep the visitors occupied.

One most favorite European country that simply cannot be characterized in few words is London. You ought to visit the city to experience its charisma and explore the outstanding monuments and cultural events. Its unique atmosphere only adds to the beauty of the place. Manchester - another city in Britain is world famous for its football club.

While planning travel in European countries finalizing your itinerary with due diligence is a must. Since there are so many not to be missed places that it is important for you to take advice of some experienced travel agent. When deciding the travel plan you can refer to guides for the required city, which is available at the tourism office. Organizing things would allow you cover a greater area without a lot of pressure on your pocket.

Since Europe has the cream of tourists from all over the world its hotels are built to match the taste of the high-end gentry. Hotels in Europe offer the best of Amemities that include: Meeting Facilities, babysitting, broadband access, restaurant in hotel, fire place, whirlpool bath, multi-lingual staff and every thing else you would ask for. The interiors in the hotels are no wonder a masterpiece. All European hotels are designed keeping in view the high taste of its possible inmates. There are also great discounts and offers available while booking rooms at these 5 star hotels. Checking through the latest proposals could save you huge riches. Among the popular hotels here is the Channings hotel, Hillside Beach Club, Lykia World, Marco Polo Presnja Hotel, Bahia Principe Costa Adeje, Kempinski Hotel Airport, Barut Hotel Hemera, Olympic Lagoon Resort and Westin Excelsior Florence.

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About the Author: Mansi Gupta recommends that you visit http://www.12bookhotels.com for Europe Hotels.

Take A World-Class Mexico Spa Vacation

2007-02-16T05:48:00.000-08:00

As a vacation destination, Mexico has even more to offer than gorgeous coastlines, indulgent food and intriguing archaeological history: world-class spas. Mexico boasts four in Cancun, two in Los Cabos, one in Puerto Vallarta and one in Acapulco. These are four- and five-star spas that are worthy of taking a Mexico spa vacation.

The Spa at Paraiso de la Bonita Resort in Cancun is a five-star, 22,000-square-foot paradise. This is the first spa in Mexico to offer thalasso therapy. This ancient technique rediscovered by contemporary therapists employs freshly heated seawater and marine algae to nurture an exchange of minerals and vitamins to heal and rejuvenate your body.

Cancun’s Maroma Resort & Spa provides a comprehensive offering of massage therapy, facials and full body treatments. You can indulge in these treatments in the delicious privacy of your own room, on your terrace or on a private Palapa beach. Free your mind, body and spirit of tension and toxins at this 4.5-star spa during a Mexico spa vacation.

The JW Marriott Cancun Resort and Spa is also a 4.5-star spa. Not only can you enjoy the benefits of a range of massage therapy and spa treatments, but you can unwind in the oceanfront pool and whirlpool, be lulled into a nap by the surf on a pristine shore, or exercise at the Health Club.

The Le Meridien Cancun Resort and Spa is a 4.5-star, 15,000-square-foot European spa. Amenities include steam and inhalation rooms, saunas, Jacuzzis, cold plunge pools, Swiss showers and a waterfall whirlpool. If you enjoy this spa during a Mexico spa vacation, fourteen treatment rooms are available to refresh, renew and revitalize your body and soul.

The One and Only Palmilla in Los Cabos is nestled within the unique natural setting of Los Cabos and Mexico’s architectural and artistic heritage. Thirteen private spa treatment villas provide the utmost in complete sanctuary for your Mexico spa vacation. The villas accommodate one or two people, providing the optimum indoor or outdoor atmosphere. This is a five-star resort.

Los Cabos is also home to Las Ventanas al Paraiso, another five-star spa. An extensive range of services include restorative treatments, holistic therapies, healing rituals, organic products and remedies native to Baja. The beautiful secluded desert garden setting will enhance your Mexico spa vacation relaxation and vitality.

The Four Seasons Resort, Punta Mita, is a five-star, 14,000-square-foot resort in Puerto Vallarta. “Punta Mita” translates as “resting place” in Spanish. The Apuane spa at Four Seasons provides myriad massage and spa treatments designed to detoxify, relax and heal your being. This includes the Punta Mita massage, which utilizes indigenous sage oil and tequila.

The four-star Fairmont Acapulco Princess spa spans 14,000 square feet, which is graced by a palapa, or thatched roof to pepper your Mexico spa vacation with a taste of authenticity. Nestled within the palapa are hydrotherapy rooms, couples massage suites, Jacuzzis, steam and sauna multi-use rooms, suites, and even a fitness center.

These spas are definitely worthy of a visit the next time you head south of the border on a Mexico spa vacation!

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About the Author: Pamela Savvy, Savvy’s Beauty Editor covers the top health spa products and wellness news. Visit Savvy Spa - because everyone needs a little pampering.

Explore The Fun And Beauty Of The 'Sapphire Princess' Cruise Ship

2007-02-16T05:18:00.000-08:00

Deciding which cruise ship to book passage on is a difficult choice to make. All of the cruise vacation brochures, pamphlets, and websites are meant to dazzle and sell a particular cruise line or cruise ship. With mountains of information, all of it favorable, it can be quite a challenge to find the cruise ship that’s right for you.

Providing luxury accommodations and premium amenities is nothing new to the Princess Cruise Lines. In fact, just one of their ships, the Sapphire Princess, pampers its guests with more than 740 balconied staterooms, fine dining, personal services, and choice entertainment. Considered to be a jewel on the high seas, the Sapphire Princess is a cruise ship of unparalleled beauty, elegance, and dignity.

While Princess Cruise Lines has many seemingly similar ships to choose from, each ship provides a unique cruise experience. For the purpose of this article, we will focus on the Sapphire Princess and the amenities and services that she offers. It is hoped that a better understanding of each cruise ship available on the Princess Cruise Lines will help you narrow down your search for the right vessel.

Amenities of the Sapphire Princess

Since you can find comfortable accommodations to suit your needs aboard any cruise ship, you might agree that it is the amenities available and services offered aboard the different ships that really set them apart from each other. Here is a brief overview of just some of the many amenities that you will find aboard the Sapphire Princess:

Dining – Dining is an integral part of any cruise experience. There are several dining options ranging from traditional dining facilities to casual eateries. At each of the establishments onboard the Sapphire, the chefs are creative and strive to offer different menu selections daily. You can choose to partake of a traditional meal served at the same time each day in the International Dining Room; choose from one of the four eateries offering meals round-the-clock; make reservations at one of the specialty restaurants; or choose to grab a snack from the food court or one of the many snack bars.

Entertainment – And you don’t ever have to worry about getting bored on the Sapphire Princess. Theater productions, lounge acts, movies, and casino gambling are just some of the free activities offered that will keep you hopping. The ship features one theater where Broadway quality productions are performed; four hot spots including a casino and three nightclubs; and four lounges.

Activities – Activities aboard are both varied and age appropriate. There are four pools and several hot tubs; a splash pool for the little ones; a fitness area complete with gym; a swim against the current lap pool; a putting course; golf simulators; a jogging track; art exhibits, galleries, and auctions; classes and seminars; and a library. You can also take advantage of duty-free shopping in one of the many boutiques aboard including Lladro, Swarovski, Calvin Klein, Lancome, Estee Lauder, and Clinique among others. There are also three age-appropriate zones where your young ones can swim, play video games, watch movies, do arts and crafts, and participate in various planned activities.

Pampered Extras

The Sapphire Princess also offers many extras that will make your time aboard ship the pampered experience of a lifetime that you expect. Whether you’re enjoying a massage or spa treatment from the spa and health center or getting your hair done at the salon you will always be able to find that something extra to make your cruise truly memorable.

Two other great features of this cruise ship are the wedding chapel and internet café. In the Hearts and Minds wedding chapel passengers can be married by the ship’s captain in one of the few at-sea wedding programs offered by cruise lines. And you never have to worry about being out of touch with the rest of the world; the Sapphire Princess’ internet lounge is one of the largest to be found at sea with 29 stations.

Staterooms of the Sapphire Princess

Your stateroom selection can be one of the most important decisions you make when booking your cruise. There are many different room selections that you can make including a grand suite with balcony, a suite with balcony, a family suite, a mini-suite, an oceanview double with balcony, or one of the interior staterooms. Here is a brief overview of each of the room options aboard the Sapphire Princess:

1. The Grand Suite with Balcony is the largest room that you can book aboard this particular ship. Taking up an amazing 1,330 square feet, this room is complete with all of the necessities plus some luxurious extras including a dining area, a whirlpool tub, a walk-in closet, and a wet bar.

2. The Suite with Balcony is half the size of the Grand Suite and measures anywhere from 525 to 706 square feet. Although it not as large as the Grand Suite, the balcony of this suite is quite large. There is also a separate tub and shower, a walk-in closet, a separate sitting area, and a wet bar.

3. The Family Suite is actually two staterooms that are connected by a common living room. This suite can sleep up to six people and has a private balcony.

4. The Mini-suite is only 334 square feet, but it comes with a lot of extras including a separate sitting area, a walk-in closet, and a separate tub and shower.

5. The Oceanview Double with Balcony ranges anywhere from 237 to 307 square feet and features two twin beds that can be pushed together to create a queen size bed. While there is a spacious closet in this room there is no bathtub so you will have to make do with showers.

6. Interior Staterooms are less than 200 square feet and are similar to the Oceanview Double except that they have no view, window, or porthole. These are the least expensive rooms on the ship.

With all of these things to consider, it can be quite a challenge to find the perfect ship and stateroom for your cruise. Remember to choose the amenities that are most important to you and then factor in the cost before making your final selection.

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About the Author: Jacqueline Michaels, want to know more about Princess Cruise Lines and all about taking a cruise? http://www.cruiselinestips.com has information from your largest concerns down to the smallest detail.

Things to Enjoy in San Francisco

2007-02-16T04:56:00.000-08:00

San Francisco offers a wide variety of attractions for the locals, visitors and tourists. The possibility of things to do in the city seems to be endless. However, the “Top Things to do” in San Francisco involves visits at the waterfront, around town, and on the city’s ocean and bay fronts.

One spectacular sight at the Waterfront of San Francisco is the “Golden Gate Bridge” the most photographed sight in the world. It stretches 4,200 feet with a towering height compared to a 65 story building. A walk at the bridge is one of the most enjoyable things to do.

Another popular sight of San Francisco’s Waterfront is the Alcatraz, a former prison for the notorious criminals. The interesting part to do at this place is the self-walking guided tour through the aid of headphones that narrates the whole story of about Alcatraz.

Half a dozen blocks along the Waterfront are the Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier39, and Ghirardelli Square. Simply walking along the streets, your attention will be caught by some entertaining performers. The street also has plenty of tempting souvenir shops and great seafood restaurants.

Around the town of San Francisco is Union Square – the third largest shopping area in the United States. It is a fabulous place to shop for clothes, art works and items for your home – but make sure that you have enough money because prices are quite expensive.

A must see attraction in San Francisco is the “Crookedest Street in the World” or simply Lombard Street. Watching the vehicles make their curves as they go down the crooked street is a great a attraction and a marvel to the eye. Others have said that it is much more interesting to experience the crooked section of the street by riding or driving a car.

San Francisco also has many places for antiques that you can visit. One of these places is the Cliff House where you can find the Camera Obscura that was invented by Leonardo Da Vinci. The Cliff House is also a very nice place for a drink because it offers excellent views of the Pacific Ocean and Seal Rock.

The place in San Francisco where there’s always something to do is at North Beach. North Beach is full of activities, but most involve eating. The area has tons of cafe’s, restaurants, delicatessens, and bakeries for you to choose from.

There are other plenty of things that you can do in San Francisco…the possibilities here are truly endless.

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About the Author: Ron Zvagelsky has a degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California. Use PlanJam to find things to do in San Francisco and other fun things to do.

Family Trip Tips

2007-02-14T05:28:00.000-08:00

Contrary to the popular notion that family holiday vacations are best spent on amusement parks, there are a lot of other places that your family can go to and enjoy its few days of fun and relaxation. Here are a few ideas you can chew on while looking for that best vacation spot for the whole family.

A Trip to the Wild

Camping can be a very good alternative to amusement parks. Not only will this be your chance to teach your son a few things about surviving in the wild and living it rough, this will also give your family the chance to appreciate the beauty of nature well away from the city. A few camp stories, sizzling barbeque's, singing around the camp fire, mallows and hot dogs and this may yet be the best family vacation ever.

Make sure to check your supplies and things though before starting out as there are a few things worse than lacking an essential tool or supply at the campsite itself. If you’re not that confident or no one in the family has any experience in camping out before, make sure that you have a guide to see to it that nothing unfortunate happens.

A Look at the World Beyond

You may also take family holiday trips as a chance to show your kids the world beyond the country. A trip to the exotic pacific island perhaps or across the scorching desserts of Egypt to take a look at the ancient pyramids will always perk up your children’s interest in the world like nothing else before.

This moment can also be a chance for your kids to know a little about the different cultures of the world, learn how to use chopsticks, learn a new language, try out some delectable dishes local to the place or buy something unique from a bazaar.

A Cross Country Expedition

You don’t even have to go far just to see something new. A cross country trip will also achieve the same goals for less the cost. All you will need is a good trailer van, plenty of food supplies, spare gas and some regular stuff and you’re good to go. Take your child out to see and be amazed of the Grand Canyon, the historical monuments of Gettysburg, Mount Rushmore and many more. This way, your family gets to enjoy its time together while learning about the country and appreciating its unique beauty more.

A Time for the Beach or the Sea

You and your family could also opt to spend their vacation time on a cruise or on the beach. This way you really get to relax while acquiring a tan. Vacationing on a beach resort is definitely less of a hassle than all the other options above, you might not get to see much but at least you’re not running around all the time.

A cruise can also be a good option especially for those families who wants to go as far from civilization as possible. The salty air of the sea, coupled with an amazing view of the stars at night might be the type of vacation that’s perfect for you and your family.

About the Author: Susan Esterbill particularly enjoys Travel, Festivals, and Family Holiday Traditions.

Mission To Space City: Houston Travel Information

2007-02-09T04:10:00.000-08:00

Houston, Texas, is probably most famous for its featured role in space travel movies as NASA’s Mission Control Center is based here inside the Johnson Space Center. However, there are hundreds more reasons to book your airfare to Houston, the 4th largest city in the United States. Come get a taste of southern rodeo, America’s gulf coast, some Spanish history, and one of the most medically and technologically advanced cities in the country.

Houston: Mecca for Science and Technology

One of the most visited places in Houston is Clear Lake, the site of NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center. Space Center Houston is open to tourists, offering educational exhibits and hands-on displays highlighting Mission Control’s long history of success and tragedy. Do not miss out on the tram tour through the actual Johnson Space Center facility. Clear Lake is also a popular recreation retreat for the city, positioned on a bay just off the coast of the Gulf, offering a variety of outdoor activities.

The Texas Medical Center is located near downtown Houston and happens to be the world’s largest medical district, servicing over five million patient appointments annually. The campus grounds feel like a city within a city, hosting residential towers for employees and all the necessities of daily life. Notably, the Medical Center provides the largest proton therapy clinic for cancer treatment and the Cancer Prevention Center, established by the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Houston’s Hotbed of Style, Sophistication and Soul

Houston is one of the most international cities in the United States, attracting tours of Broadway productions, major art exhibits, and consistently a stop on each major musician’s tours. Houston’s Theater District offers more theater space per capita than most major cities and even has permanent professional opera and ballet companies (only five other cities in the United States can make such a claim). The Museum District provides a centralized neighborhood for all of Houston’s major museums, including the Houston Zoo and the Museum of Health & Medical Science.

Houston is also a vibrant center for alternative art and culture. The streets of the city are filled with incredible motorized creations resembling spaceships, fantasy creatures and other extraordinary structures once a year during the Art Car Parade. Also, travel to Houston during the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo to catch the largest and longest running event of its kind. Major artists perform in concert and there are many arts and crafts vendors and activities for the entire family.

Secure your airfare to Houston now and enjoy the most modern and dynamic city in Texas, and possibly the entire country. The major shipping Port of Houston adds incredible diversity to the massive metropolis as the sixth-largest port in the world. Experience the down south flavor of a Texas town against the backdrop of the major multiculturalism of a bustling urban center.

United States Houston, TX

About the Author: Elyse Morgan, for more information on Houston and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Washington DC: Museums, Monuments And Multiculturalism

2007-02-09T03:52:00.000-08:00

As the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. is certainly not lacking of museums, monuments, exhibits, historic landmarks and a fantastic potpourri of cuisine and nightlife. The District of Columbia is vibrant and alive with thousands of college students, passionate non-profits and swarms of local and international government employees. Get a taste of this unique social climate when you book your airfare to Washington DC through one of the region’s major airports: Dulles International Airport (Virginia), Ronald Reagan International (Virginia), and Baltimore/Washington International (Maryland).

The city itself coexists as both the District of Columbia and the city of Washington. When the city was established, it was planned specifically to serve the United States as seat of government. A dispute arose between Virginia and Maryland as to which state would be home to the nation’s capital. Thus, the decision was made to establish Washington DC as an independent, non-state entity. What is most interesting about the city is its inhabitants are rule by the United States Congress, which has ultimate authority over DC and resulting in less government representation for residents than they would enjoy in a state.

The National Mall… but That’s Not All!

Although you will never find yourself short of things to do or see in Washington DC, there are several must visits in the District. A tour of the Capitol Building is a fascinating way to see the several stages of democracy as they emerged over the course of the nation’s history. The building itself was partially burned, along with the rest of the city, in 1814 by British forces and inside you can still see the remains of the old dome and the surrounding new, taller dome. You can also view the first Supreme Court, then housed inside the Capitol. This tour is most exciting because the building is an active part of today’s government, full of congressional interns, staffers and Congressmen.

Take a walk on the wilder side of Washington DC’s Rock Creek Park and visit the famous National Zoo, which is home to America’s famous pandas. Washington DC also offers the very popular Spy Museum, which covers the history of intelligence, espionage and code breaking in the United States and worldwide. The world renowned Smithsonian Institution is the most famous collection of museums and galleries, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery and the recently added National Museum of the American Indian. From the Smithsonian collection you will have the best view of the Capitol and the Washington Monument at either ends of the grassy Mall.

The Bounty Beyond Washington DC

Many of Washington DC’s attractions are beyond the limits of the District. Once you book your airfare to Washington DC on cFares, plan to explore the outlying areas like Arlington National Cemetery, just across the Potomac in Virginia. Take a bike ride from there down the scenic green waterside of George Washington Parkway to Mount Vernon, the home and plantation of the nation’s first president, George Washington. Washington DC is also surrounded by several National Parks and recreation areas, including Shenandoah National Park and Anacostia National Park. Find your airfare to Washington DC today and experience the heart and soul of America’s traditions, culture and democratic institutions.

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About the Author: Elyse Morgan, for more information on Washington D.C. and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Your Adventure Awaits On A Cruise Ship

2007-02-06T08:17:00.000-08:00

When most of us think of the words cruise ship, we envision the Love Boat or the Titanic. Well, not all the time, but often that's the first thing that comes to mind. Actually, a cruise ship doesn't have to be that big, and many countries have their own cruise ship lines. A cruise ship is also called a luxury ship, but that doesn't mean that only rich people can sail on her. You may not find Gopher or Doc on board, but a cruise ship offers a unique way to travel at a slower pace so that you get to know your fellow passengers and are able to intermingle at various venues provided by cruise ship activity and entertainment directors. Airline or train travel doesn't allow for such pleasures, nor does driving. For anyone who hasn't been on a cruise ship, adventure awaits!

A cruise ship is also called a passenger ship and is used for those seeking a pleasure voyage to various destinations around the world, from Tahiti to Rio, to the Canary Islands and Hong Kong. Today, a cruise ship line offers the best in travel comforts and perks. With a cruise ship, the entertainment on board is as important as the ultimate destination, and most cruise ship lines will make sure to schedule exciting events that will entertain various age groups.

The very first cruise ship built expressly for the purpose of transporting vacationers from Point A to Point B was called the Prinzessin Victoria Luise. She was built in 1900. So began the age of transatlantic transportation that hit a rough spot after the sinking of the Titanic. Following that accident, Albert Ballin, the manager of Hamburg-America Line, made it a point to send his cruise ship captains across the North Atlantic in the worst winter weather to prove that the ill-fated sinking of the queen of all liners was not the norm, but rather an isolated incident. He succeeded, and other shipping lines followed his example.

A cruise ship is equipped to withstand bad weather and is capable of sailing great distances to exotic ports of call or down your country's coastline. One of the most popular cruise ship destinations for world travelers is the Alaskan cruise, which offers delighted passengers sights and sounds that can't be seen anywhere else.

There are many different kinds of cruise ship, and some are large, which others are only moderately so. Most come with affordable small to medium sized cabins, and a cruise ticket will generally include all the food and entertainment on board as well as tickets to events or locations listed on the ships port of call sightseeing lists. A cruise ship offers hotel style living, fine dining and even theatrical entertainment all in one place. Some cruise lines offer a cruise ship geared more toward the younger crowd, like Disney, while others offer nothing but exquisite elegance. Which cruise ship you choose will not only depend on your tastes, but your pocket book as well.

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About the Author: Chonticha Marijne, ready to embark on a cruise ship adventure of your very own? Find out more about starting your cruise ship journey right at theCoolestCruises.com.

Planning An Unforgettable Trip To Australia

2007-02-02T03:04:00.000-08:00

A trip to Australia might be the perfect vacation for you. Because the Australian climate is so varied, there’s always a variety of options for destinations and activities for your dream vacation. If you prefer to rough it in the country, you can explore the Outback and climb Ayers Rock. Those who prefer the city can discover the delights of Australia’s major cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra.

Whatever your budget, you can find the right Australian travel package for you. Even travellers with the smallest budget can see what Australia has to offer by backpacking around the country and staying at inexpensive hostels that cater to young travellers on a budget. Travellers can also book guided tours, including sailing trips, hikes through the wilderness, or a tour of local wineries. Travel agencies offer travel packages that combine airfare, accommodations, some meals, and guided tours of your choice.

After you arrive at your Australian Destination, you might be confused about what activities you should do. If you took your vacation to relax, you could partake in the top-rate shopping that Australian cities can offer, take in a play, or visit historic points of interest. Australian fine dining is famous for its choice selection of seafood and beef. Tour packages may even offer cooking classes, if you’re interested in learning how to prepare these delicious meals yourself.

Australia is known around the world for its wines, particularly Shiraz, so a cooking class that incorporates wine into the cooking would be an ideal way to experience all the culinary delights Australia has to offer at the same time. If you prefer to be more active, a kayaking trip or a tour of the Great Barrier Reef might be the thing for you. Travellers can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, get lessons on surfing, or go parasailing.

If you really feel adventurous, you can try bungee jumping or skydiving. For those who wish to get in touch with nature, a drive along the Great Ocean Road or a day cruise to watch dolphins and whales in the ocean would be a great way to appreciate Australia’s natural beauty.

For more ideas about a perfect Australian vacation, you can find a multitude of websites and guidebooks that can help you plan your trip. Let’s Go, Frommers, and Lonely Planet offer guidebooks updated annually that highlight points of interest, places to stay, and the best restaurants to visit, as well as the general price range and rating for each.

Most Popular Cruise Destination in Australia/New Zealand

Travel websites can also help you plan a trip. http://Australia.com has a vast amount of resources, including census data, travel specials, climate information, currency conversion and photo galleries. It even has information about temporary work visas, if you’d like to make your vacation an extended working holiday.

About the Author: Joe Goertz, you will find more from this author at: mytravel-magazine.com

New York Night Life By Ron Zvagelsky

2007-02-01T04:12:00.000-08:00

If you want uninhibited high energy night partying and don't mind taking a bit of dangerous risk until the wee hours of the morning, New York is definitely the place for you.

Despite its reputation for being one of the most dangerous places to be in at night, New York still does not fail to seduce tourists from all over the world to celebrate and party all night in the myriad of bars and hubs to choose from.

New York has everything any tourist would wish to see in a place. People with varied interests will find themselves able to meet halfway with the night haunts that are available for the New York traveler.

For starters, one could visit the famous McSorley's Ale House, a city landmark that is known for its quaint features and for serving its own ale. Their own beer has only two types: light or dark. While the rest of New York City evolved into cutting edge technology and neon designs, McSorley's was able to preserve the very same look it had since it opened in 1854. Historical and homey in nature, this is definitely one place you would not want to miss visiting while you're there.

If you wish to party with Latin beat, Copacabana is the way to go. This is miniature Havana in the midst of the multi-cultural and sinfully delicious New York nightlife. This is one of the best places to meet the most exciting people in New York. Salsa aficionados will find this to be a little paradise, with live bands and music to boot. If you're lucky, there are even professional dancers who will offer you their services to learn the hottest salsa moves.

Most movies that shoot on New York feature the Brooklyn Bridge and with good reason. At night, this can be one of the best places for relaxation and bonding sessions with your friends. An evening walk is most perfect, especially if you have your trusty digital camera to capture those precious moments.

If you are not too claustrophobic and intend to maximize your adventure in New York, Cafe Wha is also one nightspot you may want to visit. Here is where various types of people and music go together. The atmosphere is friendly, and it is impossible for you not to meet new and interesting people when you go there. Best of all, you could come as you are because there is no dress code to keep you from dancing there all night.

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About the Author: Ron Zvagelsky has a degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California. Use PlanJam to find fun things to do and other date ideas.

The 6 Best Tips For A Family Vacation To Remember

2007-02-01T01:54:00.000-08:00

Any great summer vacation starts with planning your travel destination. Make sure to talk with your entire family before you start booking at travel arrangements. People’s lives are busy and you would hate to book a hotel just to find out that someone in your family can’t make it.

Another great family vacation tip is to layout what family members should do in case of an emergency or if someone is separated from the family. Most vacationers take this for granted, but you should always be safe rather than sorry. This is especially important if you have small children in your family. Tell them what they should do if they get lost or designate a meeting spot to go to. When you are visiting large amusement parks or relaxing at a water park, it is very easy for a child to wander off and get lost.

When planning your families’ summer vacation make sure that everyone is well aware of what you will be doing while on vacation and for how long you will be traveling. This helps everyone plan out what they need to bring and how many changes of clothes and other items. Also, if you will be driving to your vacation spot you may want to suggest that everyone bring games or reading materials to help make the travel enjoyable.

While on the topic of traveling in a car, make plans ahead of time to make the drive more fun. For example, you could rent a car television and DVD player so everyone can watch movies while you are traveling. Make sure and pack movies that the entire family will enjoy because you do not want any fighting over what gets watched before you ever reach your vacation spot.

You should also encourage family members to pack other things that will entertain them. Suggest that they bring their PSP or iPod and that way there will be no fighting over what music everyone has to listen to. Also make sure to pack extra batteries and power cords for charging everyone’s devices. The last thing you want to do is head off for vacation and after 1 hour of traveling everyone’s PSP or iPod is out of juice.

If you are taking a long trip and have to travel for a large distance make sure everyone brings a pillow for comfort and to take naps. You may also want to pack snacks and beverages so you are not required to make a stop every time someone gets hungry or thirsty.

Taking a summer vacation with your family should be an enjoyable, relaxing and memorable experience. Following the tips outlined above will help ensure that your vacation is a fun trip for everyone.

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About the Author: By Kurt Howard, Wisconsin Dells indoor water parks are sure to be great place for any family vacation. Book a Wisconsin Dells hotel for your vacation now.

Begin in Beijing - Beijing Travel Information

2007-01-28T03:04:00.000-08:00

The best way to kick off your Asian travels is in China’s progressive and even tragically hip capital city of Beijing. Traditional relics like the Tiananmen gate stand juxtaposed against the imposing modernist architecture of recent history, most notable in the Dashanzi Art District. The People’s Republic of China has its financial industries mainly in Shanghai and Hong Kong, but Beijing remains the nation’s true cultural and political center.

Orange County Meets Ming Dynasty in Beijing

When many travelers think of Beijing, they imagine the dictatorial atmosphere of Mao Zedong or television images of protesting citizens; however, Beijing has a tremendous history beginning as early as the 1st century BCE and has persevered through Kublai Kahn’s Mongols, Japanese invasion, and the Communist Civil War victory in 1949.

The Forbidden City is a fascinating journey through 500 years of Imperial secrecy. The head of state no longer resides here and the beautiful buildings and breathtaking gardens are open to the public year-round. The entrance to the Forbidden City is the infamous Tiananmen Square and gate, protected by four formidable marble lions. Nearby, the Temple of Heaven is another sublime representation of an era of dynasties and royal architecture. With airfare to Beijing, you also have the extra opportunity to see the Great Wall of China, which is only one and a half hours away by bus.

Although there are hundreds of historical sites in Beijing, the rapidly sprawling metropolis is also overflowing with contemporary wonders and luxuries. The National Zoo houses the largest inland aquarium in the world as well as China’s famous pandas. Next to the Imperial Palace, the Wan Fung Art Gallery provides insight into the artistic transition from regal and traditional to cutting edge contemporary. Most interestingly, the suburban sprawl has witnessed the creation of a $60 million American-inspired community called Orange County, complete with town homes and tract housing.

Chinese Cultural Centrifuge in Beijing

Experience two cultural traditions in one at the Laoshe Tea House where you will be both charmed by Chinese opera and soothed by a variety of traditional teas. For world-class shopping in Beijing, visit Wangfujing, or you can find your way into the many enchanting smaller districts for traditional Chinese shops and boutiques. Beijing is also home to several notable temples like the Miaoying, and even a mosque that was built in 996.

With such dynamic experiences to offer and the immaculate preservation of its past, Beijing is truly an international city and there’s no wonder the cosmopolis has been chosen for the Olympics. Get your airfare to Beijing now or wait for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

Asia Beijing, China

About the Author: John Binder, for more information on Beijing and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to www.cfares.com.

Florida Travel Information

2007-01-27T04:05:00.000-08:00

From the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic seaboard, travel to Florida is the ultimate adventure and getaway for spring breakers, singles, couples, and the entire family alike. The Sunshine State is packed with amusement park extravaganzas, wildlife sanctuaries, pristine beaches, and cruise ship island escapades. Don’t miss your chance to escape to one of the most dynamic vacation destinations in the USA.

Florida is also rife with pertinent heritage before becoming the 27th state of the Union. Florida’s history dates back thousands of years, prior to any European settlements in the region. By the time the first European explorer landed in Florida, the Native American population was thriving, including the Seminole and Apalachee tribes. The region changed hands from Spain to Britain, back to Spain then finally to the United States in 1845. Several war-torn forts and battlefields from the Civil War era and earlier can be found throughout the peninsula and panhandle, including Dade Battlefield Historic State Park in the Southwest District and Castillo de San Marcos (Fort Marion), a National Monument.

Disney, Deco, and Diving in Florida

Once you find your airfare to Florida, you’ll be ready to explore the extensive amusements the state has to offer. Disney World, near Orlando, is one of the most popular destinations and is a short drive away from Canaveral National Seashore, home of the Kennedy Space Center and periodic shuttle launches. On the Atlantic shore, Miami boasts hundreds of historic Art-Deco buildings and hotels along the famous avenues of South Beach. Just north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is the place to catch a cruise or flight into the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and the Florida Keys.

Popular leisure activities in Florida include SCUBA diving, snorkeling, yachting, horseback riding and exploring the National Parks. Everglades National Park is a stunning 1.5 million acre expanse of green wetlands, hundreds of endangered or rare species like the American crocodile and the Florida Panther, bird and flamingo sanctuaries, and numerous boat and land tours.

Dry Tortugas National Park is also a must see, made up of a cluster of islands west of the Florida Keys in the Gulf of Mexico. The park is teeming with exotic wildlife, both above and below water, and fantastic legends of pirates, gold and a history of military development. Grab your oxygen tank and your airfare to Florida for some of the most spectacular underwater photography opportunities the world has to offer.

The Finer Side of Florida

Many travelers make their pilgrimage to Florida to experience fine seaside dining in the major cities like Miami and luxury communities like Jupiter Island. Hotels and full-service resorts are generously scattered throughout the coastal regions, Orlando and the Keys, and bayside mansions attracts their own class of renters and sightseers alike.

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About the Author: For more information on Florida and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Top 5 Family Fun Beaches

2007-01-27T03:54:00.000-08:00

Planning a vacation with the whole family means you have one primary consideration: keeping the kids happy. If planning a beach vacation, it seems you already have taken care of that main consideration, but not completely. You want to be sure you choose a kid-friendly beach that will also keep the adults happy.

Dr. Beach, otherwise known as scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, chooses the top beaches each year, always with an eye toward the kids as well. All of the following selections are made with the family in mind. These were Dr. Beach’s selections for 2006.

1. Fleming Beach, Maui. This beach, of which part is the Ritz Carlton beach, is a popular destination for families. Here, you can surf, swim and picnic. Since the kids are with you, you’ll appreciate that there are restrooms, showers and picnic facilities. If you’re visiting in the winter, stay out of the water, as the surf is dangerously high then. Families also like the location – it’s on the west side of Maui and is backed by a forest of trees which provide abundant shade.

2. Caladesi Island State Park, Florida. This beach makes a wonderful complement to a Florida vacation with kids. Head to Florida’s west coast (this beach is near the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area) and visit this park, which offers a marina, picnic pavilions, shelling and fishing, as well as nature studies. There are also three miles of nature trail here. The beach is a family favorite due to the myriad of activities that complement your visit, as well as the beautiful sand beaches perfect for sandcastle making.

3. Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. Located on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, Ocracoke Island is a popular destination for families. There’s something here for everyone: the kids enjoy watching the “banker ponies”, the wild ponies that live there, and parents enjoy the quaint shops, historic lighthouse, and darling homes. The village of Ocracoke is on the National Register of Historic Places. There’s a free ferry service from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke Island. It’s a 40-minute ferry ride that can end up taking a lot longer in the summertime, as the wait for the ferry can be a long one.

4. Cooper’s Beach, Southampton, New York. Southampton was the first settlement in New York State, in 1640, and this beach is the main beach in the Southampton area. Of course, Southampton is known as the playground of the rich during the summer months, so be sure to prepare yourself for that if you’re not normally part of that moneyed crowd. But don’t let that scare you off – the beach is also a favorite playground of kids everywhere. You should carry some cash: non-residents pay $25 for weekday parking and $30 for weekend.

5. Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii. This beach, located on the north coast of Hawaii, is a quiet oasis of fun beach activities. There are many vacation home rentals in the area, so you can head from your condo or house rental right to this beautiful beach. Kids love it because the white sand beaches are prime for sand play, there are restrooms, picnic facilities and a lifeguard on duty. Kids can play in the water most times of the year and surfing and boogie boarding are also popular here.

About the Author: Liz Boudreau is a beach bum with a passion for travel. She has traveled to and reviewed some of the best beaches in the world.

Virginia Is For Lovers - Virginia Travel Information

2007-01-27T03:42:00.000-08:00

From Appalachia to the Potomac River, Virginia is diverse as it is rich with history. Revolutionary and Civil War battlegrounds rub shoulders with thriving urban centers and peaceful outdoor sanctuaries. Richmond, Virginia Beach and Arlington are the main points of entry, as well as the northeast neighbors of Washington D.C. and Maryland.

Virginia in the Books

Virginia is also certain to brush up your United States history, as eight Presidents were born here including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. Mount Vernon was the home and plantation of George Washington, located on the Potomac River just south of Arlington and Washington D.C. Enjoy the expansive grounds, oceanfront walking paths and stables as well as a new giftshop and quaint colonial restaurant serving traditional food as well as some of George and Martha’s favorites. In Richmond, the Virginia State Capitol Building was designed by Thomas Jefferson and the University of Virginia in Charlottesville was founded by the former President as well.

You will also encounter more Revolutionary battlefields in Virginia than any other state. The Yorktown peninsula is the site of the famous battle that ended the Revolutionary War. During the Civil War, Richmond was not only the capital of Virginia but also of the Confederated States. Become surrounded by one of the great moments in United States history at the Appomattox Court House, the site of the Confederate surrender to the Union that ended the Civil War. Travel to Virginia’s northeast county of Arlington to pay respects to some of the great heroes of the nation at Arlington National Cemetery, including the Challenger Space Shuttle Mission, numerous Supreme Court Justices, the Kennedy family and even the mast of the sunken USS Maine from the Spanish-American War.

Voyage Beyond the Virginian Veneer

Once you’ve had your fill of history, get outdoors into some of the most breathtaking scenery on the Eastern Seaboard. The resort city of Virginia Beach is one of the most popular destinations along Chesapeake Bay. At your own leisurely pace, discover the many wildlife refuges, wildflowers, aquariums and seafood restaurants along the stretches of beach. Check out the First Landing Cross as well, the point where English settlers landed in 1607.

Spanning west across the Piedmont region, you will finally come to the Appalachian ranges, cooler temperatures and forested hillsides. The Shenandoah Valley plunges gloriously between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains and offers unlimited outdoor adventure as well as endless Civil War stories. Discover why Virginia is truly for lovers… of everything!

About the Author: Elyse Morgan, For more information on Virginia and cheap airfare & flight tickets, go to http://www.cfares.com

Free and Easy Adventurous Trip in Singapore

2007-01-26T00:36:00.000-08:00

Singapore has been known to some as the Garden City. Singapore's strategic position has helped it grow into a major centre for trade, communications and tourism. From Singapore to Malaysia, you can take a bus or train ride or even walk across one of the two causeway bridges. Not only that, it is just a quick ferry trip to the key islands of the Riau archipelago of Indonesia. Thailand and the Philippines are a short plane journey away. Singapore, with an airport served by more than 69 airlines, is very much the gateway to Southeast Asia.

Singapore has a population of about 4 million, which comprises of 77% Chinese, 14% Malays, 8% Indians and 1% Eurasians and people of other descent. It certainly is a dynamic city rich in contrast and color as you'll find a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, arts and architecture here.

Moving around Singapore is easy not only because of the good transportation system, but also because English is the language of business and administration, and is widely spoken and understood in Singapore.

If you are an adventure seeker, this could be the things you can do in Singapore.

First, visit the Underwater World, which is Asia's first and largest tropical fish oceanarium with over 2,500 marine specimens including the World's Largest Display of Sand Tiger Sharks! It is located in Sentosa, one of the 63 Islets of Singapore. Sentosa is easily accessible by a cable car ride, the new train system that link the islet directly to the mainland. For more information on Sentosa: http://www.sentosa.com.sg/

If you have survived the heart-stopping experience with the sharks, reward yourself with lunch at Holland Village, an enclave of charming shops, cafes and restaurants. Holland Village is popular with expatriates and yuppies. You may also want to do a spot of shopping for Asian arts and crafts at the Holland Village Shopping Centre and the Holland Village Complex.

After lunch, proceed to the Jurong BirdPark, which is a 20.2 hectare open-concept park. It is the largest in the Asia Pacific and the best in the world. Its collection of more than 9,000 birds from 600 species is among the largest in the world. The Park specialises in birds from Southeast Asia. This is where you can be a falconer for a day, learning to handle trained birds of prey. This is your chance to practise falconry - a sport, which traditionally had been associated only with royalty and aristocracy. For more information on the Jurong BirdPark: http://www.birdpark.com.sg/

After all that excitement, it's time to relax with some light shopping at Bugis Street - Singapore's largest permanent street bazaar. Besides unexpected bargains, you can also find interesting sights like the co-existence of a Buddhist and an Indian temple side-by-side. Also, stop by Bugis Junction, the only shopping mall in Singapore with a glass-covered and air-conditioned shopping walkway, on top of a rich historical background and interesting shophouse architecture.

For a different view of Singapore, proceed on to Clarke Quay and have a go at the Reverse Bungy Jump. Feel your heart drop to your feet as you are flung up at great speeds and then jerked back down to earth. This experience is certainly not for the faint-hearted!

The day's activities should have worked up your appetite and imagination. Join the Magical Makansutra Food Safari, where you will be able to sample some of Singapore's finest street food. Each safari lasts about three hours and features five food types. We guarantee that our local food like Bak Kut Teh (Pork Ribs in Tea Soup); one very unique food that you must definitely try. Laksa (noodles in a spicy coconut broth); this is one of the Singaporeans' favorites. Roti Prata (Indian pancakes) will leave you wanting more.

After dinner, it's time to walk off those calories… if you dare. Go on the unique walking tour of the historic Kampong Glam area where you will be spooked by little-known supernatural stories of Sultan Mosque, Old Istana, Kris shop, perfume shop and the royal graveyard. Embrace thousands of years of Malay folklore and discover forgotten places - places that still haunt the memories of some in eerie twilight.

Five Quick Tips Before Taking A Cruise Ship Vacation

2007-01-24T05:52:00.000-08:00

Cruising is a wonderful and relaxed way to see several countries while enjoying the sun. Today, cruise trips are extremely popular due to their low cost and luxury travel experience.

However, like all travelling, there are a few things you need to be aware of before you start to plan your cruise ship vacation.

Here are some cruise tips to help guide you on your journey.

1. All inclusive cruises are not available

Most all cruise lines do not offer an all inclusive cruise package. Alcohols, soft drinks and even water all needs to be paid for when on cruise ships. The only things included are the cruise itself, your cabin and generally at least 1-2 meals a day.

2. Shop around and consult different cruise travel agents

Cruise travel agents are like travel agents, but are experts in cruising. Be prepared to tell the cruise agent exactly what you are looking for. You could visit 5 different agencies and receive 5 different quotes for the same cruise. In addition, look for deals in off weeks. A fare may be $2000 one week and $800 the following week.

3. Be aware of added charges

If you are planning to cruise alone and don't want to share your cabin, you can anticipate a single's supplement charge of 10% to 100% of a per person's rate (depending on cruise line). In addition, a lot of cruises require you to pay extra for any cruise shore excursions, or any special activities that are offered on board. Be prepared to spend an additional 30% of the cost to take part in any of these activities.

4. Knowing when the best time to cruise is

Cruising is usually a little cheaper during the spring or fall. Weather can be uncertain, especially in the fall given many Caribbean destinations could have hurricane seasons during this time. This is something to watch out for. The dry season for Caribbean cruises is during the summer where as the rainy season is during the winter. Other cruise lines have short cruising seasons, such as Alaska cruises which normally run from May to September.

5. Have fun!

One of the most important tips that I can give to you on your cruise ship vacation is to have a great time. Relax! After all it's your vacation and you deserve to make the most out of it. There are many things for you to do, fancy dinners and dressing up, meeting new friends, visiting exotic locations, being on deck in the sun, doing cruise shore excursions, and much more! It's important to have fun, so when you come back you feel better about yourself and that you got the most out of your time and money.

Remember, cruising is an absolutely exceptional way to spend your vacation. They are very relaxing and a very enjoyable way to spend some time away. However, like all vacations, you need to know what is required before purchasing your dream cruise ship vacation. Keep this in mind and I have no doubt your cruise trip will be a complete success!

Travelocity has the lowest CRUISE prices, GUARANTEED

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Golf and Spa Getaways

2007-01-23T22:44:00.000-08:00

If you're going to swing at something all day, regardless of the great satisfaction you might get from a drive that soars upward toward the trees but is somehow snatched by the wind and settled gingerly onto the green for a perfect putt, you're going to want to continue to relax near Alberta golf courses.

Then again, you may already be relaxing because you're there to enjoy a spa and, hey, by gosh if there isn't the best golfing in the world just a walk away from where I'm getting a hot stone massage that's so good, it's putting me into a trance. And I'm dreaming of a new set of clubs.

In Alberta, spas such as The Willow Stream at Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff National Park are rated among the world's best. You'll find some of the top rated spas and golf courses within walking distance to each other. There are more than 280 courses throughout the province, six of which are among Canada's Top 10. A few top magazines are showing this spring that Alberta's a trip worth taking.

Golf & Spa Magazine of Resorts and Great Hotels, the Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best, features The Fairmont Banff Springs in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Alberta as one of the planet's best locations where you can get the best of both worlds (golf and spa).

Warm Summers, Endless Daylight

Remember, it's warm in Alberta during the summer, and the daylight lasts beyond 10 p.m., so you can enjoy yourself indoors and outdoors, far into the night.

The magazine's Special Edition acknowledges The Fairmont Banff Springs as a AAA Four Diamond Award winner and describes it as "a century-old symbol of Rocky Mountain hospitality and as a Canadian pioneer in the realms of golf and spa." Just a 90 minute drive west of Calgary, Alberta's international gateway city to the Canadian Rockies, the luxury property features a baronial castle in the mountains with easy access to a Stanley Thompson Course (18 holes) and award-winning Willow Stream spa.

I've been to the Willow Stream spa and it's a remarkable retreat. A group of us (men and women) tried the plunge pools (you move through a series of pools and watch it, the last one's pretty cool) and then we moved out into the hot springs, set amidst towering mountains. Even the views from the lounges are breathtaking. The men's lounge has a big, flat screen television tuned to sports and other programs that guys want to see. The women's lounge is geared a bit differently, of course, with special touches for the ladies. So it's a great place for a couple.

As Golf and Spa Magazine notes, the spa facilities include 23 treatment rooms, including a deluxe couple's suite, health centre and much more. The Banff Mineral Scrub refines and renews the skin with a compound of Rocky Mountain botanicals and mineral elements, says the magazine. And the story notes that elk and bear sometimes wander the fairways of this certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. The golf course's signature fourth hole, nicknamed the Devil's Cauldron, requires "a highly accurate tee shot across a deep blue glacial lake and onto a bowl-like green," the magazine says.

Canada's Golf Boom Includes Alberta

'Canada's Golf Boom' trumpets the Athlon Sports Golf Magazine 2006 annual golf guide on the cover. "There's a golf boom going on north of the border," it says, "from links to inland courses, tree-lined designs to wide-open prairies, Canada has a wide variety of golf experiences and some of the most enchanting settings in the world." And when the article focuses on Alberta, it praises Edmonton, Canmore and both (Fairmont) Banff Springs and Jasper National Park as prime places to play. The magazine says Edmonton, (Alberta's international gateway city to the North), is home to the Northern Bear Golf Club, a Jack Nicklaus Signature design that has received many accolades. The Ranch features a closing hole nicknamed the Pit of Doom that has been rated the roughest on the Canadian Tour, says the magazine. While in Calgary and Edmonton, you can try Eveline Charles spas among many others.

Wolf Creek, 70 miles (133 km) south of Edmonton, has 27 holes and "a wonderful blend of Scottish and Wild West flavors," notes the magazine. It also speaks of Glen Eagles, "a par-72 gem" with ravines, escarpments and eye-popping vistas. Silver Tip in Canmore, a growing mountain town that sits at the edge of Banff National Park, is quoted as "an extreme golf experience." And there are nods to the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course as Stanley Thompson designs that are "mesmerizing. "

New Courses and Experiences

For a unique golf and spa experience, you can travel northeast of Calgary through towering hoodoos in Canada's Badlands and visit terrain where dinosaur roamed; the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology houses most revered dinosaur skeletons. And you can golf a jaw-dropping nine holes at the Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club and enjoy a spa at Heartwood Manor, among other properties. And in the North is a new golf consortium, Golf Northern Alberta's Best, where you have access to more than 18 hours of golfing daylight.

New courses include the Blackhawk Golf Club just 10 minutes west of Edmonton (it's recently rated as one of the top two new courses in Canada by Golf Digest Magazine) and the Speargrass Golf Club, set along the Bow River, just 30 minutes southeast of Calgary.

Whether you're enjoying the Canadian Rocky Mountains or the small town adventures of the rolling prairies or the province's vibrant, international gateway cities of Edmonton and Calgary or the rugged North, you'll have easy access to golf and spa getaways.

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Copyright © 2006 Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved

Travel Alberta (http://www.travelalberta.com) is the destination marketing organization for the Province of Alberta. Guided by the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, Travel Alberta is the steward for the effective delivery of tourism marketing programs. For information about our organization, please visit our Travel Alberta industry web site at http://industry.travelalberta.com

Things To Do In Oahu Hawaii

2007-01-23T21:01:00.000-08:00

Oahu, Hawaii’s 3rd largest island, could easily be considered the heart of Hawaii. With looping mountain trails, to monster waves breaking on the gorgeous golden beaches, to beaches where the turtles are swimming right along with you, down to country stores and discovering the uniqueness of Hawaiian culture, where do you begin?

With limited time and a wealth of things to see and do, here’s a list of things to do in Oahu, that I hope will help you determine what you’d like to put in your schedule!

Snorkelling in the exquisite Hanauma Bay

The Hanauma Bay Nature Park is actually a State Underwater Park and is a paradise for even the novice of snorkellers! The Bay is the result of the ocean’s breaching and incursion into two volcano craters. In addition to the beautiful swimming and snorkelling opportunities, there are also hiking trails with gorgeous vistas and plenty of picnicking sites.

Take an Eco Adventure Tour and swim with the Dolphins!

Discover whales, dolphins and sea turtles with nature-tour operators who are filled with knowledge and carry a deep respect for marine animals in their natural habitat. Cruise out to sea in a relaxed sailing atmosphere and view the mountainous shorelines and pristine beaches. This journey is sure to make an adventure of a lifetime!

No trip is complete without a Hawaii Luau!

The Luau, based on traditional Hawaiian feasts, has become a rite of passage for all tourists! You can expect a flashy show, a huge buffet and a true authentic Hawaiian experience!

Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at surfing!

Originating as the sport of ancient Hawaiian royalty, you can find lessons right on Waikiki Beach. The surf is great for beginners and kids as young as eight can try! If that’s too much adventure for you and you’re there in the winter time, why not head on up to the north shore and watch the pros compete on the giant surf!

Climb Diamond Head Volcano

The most famous volcanic crater in the world, Diamond Head is located on the southeast coast of Waikiki. It is an easy to moderate hike that is well worth the effort when you see the spectacular view of the entire west side of the island from Waikiki to Koki Head.

Visit the Hawaii Polynesian Cultural Center

An opportunity to visit seven Polynesian Islands in one afternoon! It gives you a chance to learn and interact with the people of Hawaii, Samoa, Maori New Zealand, Fiji, Tahiti, the Marquesas and Tonga. You’ll also see the world-famous and largest night show, Horizons: Where the Sea Meets the Sky.

And of course we have Waikiki Beach!

The place where you can surf, swim and sail by day and dine, dance and party by night! Waikiki is truly legendary and one of the best things that you can do in Oahu. Beyond the gorgeous sand and surf, you can stroll along the flagstone walkway where you’ll see fountains, rock pools, statues and surfboard signs that teach you a bit about its history! Waikiki is the world’s most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches which stretch along two miles of shoreline. Do beware, it is also one of the most crowded!

While this is only a very small portion of things to do in Oahu, I hope that this has helped you to discover a little bit about what this truly magnificent island has to offer!

Visit Travelocity for Hawaii Deals

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

You Can Book Your Own Cruise Of A Lifetime!

2007-01-23T06:39:00.000-08:00

Many people are simply overwhelmed when it comes time to book the cruise vacation of their dreams. There are so many options, so many cruise lines, so many destinations, and so many considerations. The list just continues on and on until one feels like they will never be able to sort through the jumble to find the perfect vacation package. But you can book the cruise vacation that you’ve always dreamed of. And while you can use a travel agent to do it, you can do it just as easily on your own if you know how.

The first step to booking your cruise vacation is to research and gather all of the cruise information you can find. Doing a keyword search online is a great place to start. You can also visit your local travel agent for brochures and catalogues printed by Princess Cruise Lines and various other cruise lines. Compare prices, destinations, and overall service of each vacation package offered to get a basic idea of what type of package you would like to purchase.

Next you will need to choose your destination. Again, the internet is a great tool. Online you will find tourist information, pictures, and testimonials for all of the top cruise destinations in the world. Your local travel agent may also be able to give you some insight into which ports are most popular among which types of travelers. Another great source of information are friends and acquaintances that have traveled with a cruise line. They can give you a unique perspective and advice on which destinations to avoid and which ones to include in your itinerary.

Before you visit your travel agent or book online, you should have a good idea of how much money you can spend and how long of a cruise you would like to take. Keep in mind that the time of year that you book your cruise can have a huge impact on the price you will pay. This means that you may be able to book a longer cruise with more ports of call for the same price of a shorter cruise if you book during the off season.

Once you have gathered and researched all of the information, you can begin booking your cruise. You can do this through a respected and well-known travel agent of your choosing or you can book your cruise yourself online or directly through the cruise line itself. No matter which method you choose, you will have to make several decisions about your vacation at this point in the planning process. Here are just a few:

1. Choose your point of departure and the travel method that you will use to get there.

2. Decide on ports of call and any extra activities that you may wish to take advantage of.

3. Choose your stateroom. Keep in mind that staterooms vary in price, amenities, size, and services available.

4. Become familiar with cancellation policies and restrictions.

5. Find out if you will be required to put down a deposit and how much it will be. Some cruise lines will require you to pay the full amount due up front.

Travel Agent or Book Yourself?

While finding a cheap price used to be the motivation that kept people glued to their computer well into the night looking for the perfect deal on a cruise, the popularity of cruises has led to the equalization of cruise prices all across the board. This means that you will probably pay the same price for a cruise that you book yourself as you would for one that you book through a travel agency. So which method should you choose? Take a quick look at the following advantages of each before you make your decision.

Booking with a travel agent has many advantages over booking online, and since the cruise line pays the agent a commission for booking the trip with its line, there is virtually no cost to you when you use an agent. Here are just a few of the advantages of booking your vacation through an agent:

1. An agent is quite familiar with all of the cruise lines available and the packages that they offer. This helps them to quickly narrow in on a package of your choice without having to do a lot of unnecessary research.

2. Since agents are familiar with popular cruise lines but are not employed by them, they can give you unbiased advice concerning your vacation and which cruise line you should travel with.

3. Most travel agents are certified or licensed through the Cruise Line International Association and the Travel Institute.

4. A travel agent will look for reduced pricing for your trip even after it has been booked and rebook your sea voyage for you at a lower price if and when it becomes available.

5. In the unfortunate even that something goes awry during your trip, your travel agent will act as a mediatory between you and the offending cruise line.

Booking online also has many advantages. Although a rare occurrence, searching for last minute deals online can still yield results. But even if you can’t find a last minute cruise bargain, you may choose to book online for one of the following reasons:

1. Online cruise websites contain most of the information that is available to travel agents. This puts the control of your vacation directly into your hands. You may also be able to browse inside information that would not have come up during a normal meeting with your travel agent.

2. You can access online travel agencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This allows for a lot of convenience and flexibility, which is perfect for people who have a hard time keeping and making appointments.

3. When it comes to researching your vacation, there is no better place to do it than online. Here you will find numerous research tools as well as photos, diagrams, reviews, schedules, and videos just to name a few.

4. Using an online calendar, you can search for the most inexpensive package available through the cruise line of your choosing. Sometimes you can save a few hundred dollars by leaving a week earlier or later than your scheduled time frame.

5. Since your travel agent narrows in on certain lines, ships, and destinations according to your wants and needs, you may not be able to browse all of the options available. Booking online will allow you to do this and more.

As you can see, there are many advantages of each, so it may be hard to make a decision. If you’re finding this to be true, you may want to book your vacation through an agent and perform additional research online yourself. Whatever your decision, once you have looked at all the details, go for it!

About the Author: Visit http://www.cruiselinestips.com or search Princess Cruise Lines for more details on your dream cruise!

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5 Tips to Get Really Good Price Airline Ticket

2007-01-22T20:21:00.000-08:00

Any amount of savings when you travel means a lot when you cannot afford to loose an extra buck. You try your best to come up with several ways to save those extra bucks and see that there are 5 different ways of getting really cheap airline tickets for your next flight.

Buying a return ticket – Perhaps the easiest way to keep some money in your pocket a little longer is to buy a return ticket. Most airline companies offer rebates for return flight tickets with only a slight difference on a one way ticket. If you plan to return on a definite date, make sure buy return tickets ahead of time. Also, there are some instances where traveling on regular days is cheaper than traveling during weekends. Weekends are much busier than weekdays and the demand for airline tickets are higher. Thus prices are higher on certain dates where demand is also high. If you think it is advantageous for you to travel during weekdays and return on a next weekdays, you can grab really cheap airline ticket for sure.

Internet – The internet is pretty basic and it is already in front of your nose if you want to find really cheap airline ticket. While reading this, you can even start opening the links attached and find your way to a cheap airline tickets. Here you can research on several different discount ticket sites that offer really cheap airline tickets anywhere in the world. The trick actually lies in the prices of tickets on discount ticket sites which vary day in and day out. Oftentimes, these discount ticket sites offer the same type of ticket on the same day of the same destination with different prices. If you want to get really cheap airline ticket wherever you want to go, it pays to visit at least 3 discount ticket sites in the web and do a comparison.

Don’t Settle for Big Airline Companies – Big airline companies offer big service to big clients. They have more expensive ticket prices due to the amount of advertisement and marketing they incur in order to maintain their fame. Try not to fly with them. Instead, go for smaller airline companies which can provide good service at the same time cheaper airline ticket prices.

Keep your trip more flexible – If you are not on the rush and would not mind saving on money than getting to a destination as quick as possible, keep your options open. Again this would need an internet to work. You need to search for all the possibilities where you can compare ticket prices. Try to look for flights during midnight or connecting flights. Make a comparison against several others so you will discover a really cheap airline ticket that is right for your budget.

Plan to travel longer - Most of the time, it pays to take a bus from one city to another, and then take the flight from there than getting on a airplane directly on your city. If for example you are traveling from San Diego to Seattle. Try to take a bus From San Diego to Los Angeles then take a plane from L.A. to Seattle. Or, if you want to go a little further, ride a bus from San Diego to Sacramento, then take a plane there. Chances are you have saved a lot before you know it! These are only 5. There are more. If you really want cheap to get cheap airline ticket, explore more possibilities like taking on vacation packages, last minute discount and accepting courier flights. In these ways, you will no longer have to pay full the next time you travel by air.

About the Author: If you liked this article, you might also like my other must-read guide to getting cheap airline tickets. Click here: http://Airline-Ticket-Guide.useful-tips.com/ Article Written By: Jed Baguio

Hawaii Honeymoon Vacation Packages

2007-01-22T08:45:00.000-08:00

Why You Should Purchase One by Sheryl Walters

Are you about to be married within the next year or two? If so, have you started planning your honeymoon yet? As important as honeymoons are, there are many couples who tend to place the most focus on their actual wedding. The good news is that you can easily do both. You can do this with the purchase of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are ideal for soon to be newlyweds. In fact, there are an unlimited number of benefits to paying for your Hawaiian honeymoon in the form of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package.

Perhaps, before examining the benefits of purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package, you may want to know a little bit more about these packages. Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are like most traditional vacation packages. Many times, the only difference is that the included accommodations have a focus on honeymoons or at least romantic getaways. For instance, it is not uncommon to find Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages that include oceanfront rentals or vacation home rentals. If honeymoon vacation packages include hotel or resort accommodations, there is a good chance that those accommodations will likely be luxury in nature.

As with traditional vacation packages, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages tend to include a number of different accommodations and travel arrangements. These accommodations and arrangements may include, but should be limited to, overnight accommodations, car rentals, and airline reservations. With Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages it is also common to find special honeymoon activities included. For instance, a large number of Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages include romantic guided boat tours, scuba diving lessons, or theater plays. What is nice about all of these accommodations is that they are accommodations that you will likely need or want to use; therefore, you are, almost always, spending your money wisely when purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package.

Speaking of saving money, you will find that Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are reasonably priced. As with most traditional vacation packages, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages are offered at a discounted price. The amount of money that you can save on your Hawaii honeymoon will all depend on the type of honeymoon vacation package you choose to purchase and where you purchase it from. Regardless of where you choose to purchase your Hawaii honeymoon vacation package from, there is a good chance that you will save some money. Whether you end up saving fifty dollars or two hundred dollars, there is a good chance that you will enjoy the money saved. After all, everyone wants to have the honeymoon of their dreams, but that honeymoon shouldn’t have to break the bank.

In addition to saving money, you can also save yourself a fairly large amount of time by making your honeymoon reservations through the purchase of a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. That is because, as previously mentioned, Hawaii honeymoon vacation packages tend to include a number of accommodations. With a vacation package, even a honeymoon one, you only need to pay one large sum for most of your honeymoon arrangements, such as your overnight accommodations and your airfare. If you do not purchase a honeymoon vacation package, there is a good chance that you would have to make all of your honeymoon reservations separately. While it is always possible to do so, you may find it quite time consuming.

If you are looking to save time and money, there is a good chance that you may be interested in purchasing a Hawaii honeymoon vacation package. If so, you are advised to start examining the packages that are available online. These packages are most commonly sold through online travel websites, including Hawaiian travel websites.

Visit Travelocity for Hawaii Deals

About the Author: Hawaii condos are not only affordable but when we book our next hawaii travel vacation package we know we will be saving money.

Travel Brazil – A Glimpse Of Beautiful South America by Sarah White

2007-01-21T00:29:00.000-08:00

Brazil is the largest and most populated country in South America, and is fifth largest in the world in both area and population. Portuguese is the only official language of Brazil which is spoken by nearly the entire population. In fact, Brazil is the only country in the America’s in which Portuguese is their primary language.

If you look at a map of Brazil, you can see that it borders almost every other South American country except Ecuador and Chile. Brazil is divided up into 5 regions. The North Region, which is by far the largest, Northeast Region, Center-west Region, South Region and the Southeast Region, home of the most famous and popular destinations Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. The capital of Brazil is Brasilia, and with 11 million plus people, Sao Paulo is its largest city. Sao Paulo Brazil is also one of the largest cities by area and population in the southern hemisphere.

Brazil has a large selection of outdoor activities available for tourists and locals alike. You can hike, surf, dive, go rafting, play golf, volleyball, soccer, fish or virtually anything else you may want to do in the great outdoors you can do here in Brazil. Like most places in the world as of late, Cave exploring is now a very popular commode and with about 2, 800 registered Caves, the tourism industry has never been brighter.

Brazil is, of course, is also home to over 60% of the Amazon Rainforest. The Rainforest itself has some 5.5 million kilometres in total size within 8 different countries. The Rainforest also has much wildlife and some species that even still have yet to be discovered. The very sad thing about this habitat is that by the year 2020, it is estimated that 50% of the Brazilian wildlife will become extinct!! It is so bad that since 1970, over 500 square kilometres have been lost in this beautiful forest.

One more thing to remember while in Brazil is that street violence in certain areas of the major cities could get very harsh and dangerous. Don’t let this stop you from going to go visit a remarkable place, just be cautious. Make sure you don’t bring a lot of money with you at one time, don’t walk around at night in places you don’t know and if possible travelling in groups is a great idea. It is also a good idea to make sure you ALWAYS have a photo ID on you. The Brazilian police can ask for such things anytime, and you don’t want to constantly have your passport on you. A photocopy is a must have, so be sure you carry those around and leave the original in a safe place.

Whether you are looking for a beautiful beach, a glimpse of the absolutely stunning Amazon Rainforest, or the mile high sky scrapers in downtown Sao Paolo, Brazil has a little something to offer to any travel adventurer.

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Spain Is The Perfect Golf Retreat by Johnathan Bakers

2007-01-19T10:58:00.000-08:00

If you are a golf enthusiast than golf in Spain will be your perfect idea of a vacation. Spain is full of golf resorts all over the country, so you are sure to find something to suit your needs and your families needs. You can visit Costa del Sol or Costa Blanca so you can enjoy the great golf resorts, while your family enjoys the luxurious beaches and shopping. There are new resorts constantly being built so you’ll have something new to choose from each year.

One of the best spots for golf in Spain is the Costa del Sol. There have been many new developments of resorts and golf courses over the past few years. Now there are over forty different courses that stretch up and down over fifty miles of coastline. You’ll be sure to take in a beautiful view while you golf.

If you want a golf course that combines the best in golf with other sports or leisure activities than this is the spot for you. Spain hosts a wide variety of golf resorts that also include a great spa experience. This is ideal for a couple so that one can be in the spa while the other is on the course.

Check out the amenities in your resort before picking the best one for you. You can find resorts that have fully equipped swimming pools, hot tubs, a large gym and weight room, private beaches, tennis lessons, bike rental, and many other activities. This will help you travel with your whole family so that there is something for everyone to enjoy while you are on your vacation.

When you’ve decided on golfing in Spain, then make sure you go online to read all about your different options. You can find reviews of many major resorts and smaller courses as well. These reviews will help you pick the right destination for you and your family. When you use reviews written by both professionals and tourists alike you’ll get a good sense of what each resort has to offer.

You’ll need to remember that golfing in Spain has become really popular in the past few years and you may have to wait for your turn on the course. When the season is at its peak everyone must wait to play. Knowing some basic golf etiquette that can help you on the Spanish courses and in golf in general.

When you are playing a very slow game of gold this can be frustrating for your party and for the people behind you. You should try to keep the game moving forward and everyone should be paying attention to his or her turn. When you are ready for your turn you should jump right up and swing so you don’t keep people waiting too long behind you.

Once your shot is completed you should move onto the next hole. You can mark your score down when you are waiting for your next shot, rather than keeping everyone waiting behind you at the hole you have just finished play. If you happen to lose a ball then keep moving on and look for it later, rather than having the group behind you wait for you to find it. These are things that will make your trip and other people’s trip more pleasant.

About the Author: Robert Carlton usually creates papers on areas associated to Spain and vacation. His articles on golf in Spain are published on his website.

Secluded Bali Hideaways by Dave Waldheim

2007-01-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

Driving down any country road in Bali will be an interesting experience. For visitors that like to get out of the touristic developed areas this will be the right choice. Self-drive is the way to go for Bali visitors that want to really explore the island and spend the night or muliple nights at new and different destinations. This way travel will become a journey that holds surprises, a bit like the Paris-Dakar route that is divided into some etapes. This way travelers can actually hear the voice of nature, like real wind, the waves and the entertaining Balinese frogs that usually having 'a concert' after each rain. Flexibility usually opens doors and rewards with totally unexpected new discoveries.

And if serenity becomes principal consideration during a stay in Bali, just get on the unbeaten tracks or into the hidden corners of Bali. This will be an intriguing adventure that will entertain the sense of adventure more than anything else and enrich your life style. Solitary accommodation is available nearly on every spot of the etape as for example the following.

Bali has many secluded hideaways for adventurers. Because it's territory isn't huge really you cannot get lost like in the Australian outback. So, it is not worthy worrying about that. When your itinerary has been arranged, you can start the island journey from one of the hotels at the main resorts at Nusa Dua, Kuta Beach or Sanur Beach, and then continue to the central part of the tropical island, to Ubud. Ubud that is popularly known as international hideout of international artists and the heart of art that has many luxury riverside accommodations. Views of River Ayung or Petanu will be inviting every visitor to enter the ‘world of dreams encased with verdant lush tropical plants.

Cool temperature and composure will probably delay the check out day, as it is absorbing. The more so if travelers enjoy a spa treatment indulgence that releases tension and relieves the mind burdened with stress and daily life.

Next destination could be Candi Dasa and its surroundings in the Karangasem Regency that all have accommodations to stay. Many activities can be done here, like fishing, trekking, and taking adventures to fruit plantations or visit the native of Bali, Tenganan Village.

Next stop are the northern beaches already waiting for the adventurer on the next sojourn at Lovina beach that can be passed through the eastern route of the island. This location offers some luxury accommodation that is specially designed by adopting some elements of the Balinese traditional architecture. Blended with landscaped garden and surrounding atmosphere, it results in a convenient hideaway spot. Along the north shore there are many small hideaway hotels where you can experience Bali basically without running into other people at all.

Afterwards the journey continues westwards by passing through the Bali Barat National Park area. Around here there are limited eco-friendly accommodations that highlight the potential of natural living. A wooden tower is operated to observe birds or animal nearby. The resort is also strategically located that is close to the diving site of Menjangan Island.

As a finish perhaps you would like to spend more nights at the Medewi or Suraberata villages that each also retains distinctive interest and provides accommodation. Both located beach side and lay in the midst of swaying palm leaves. Surfing activity is an added value offered by these locations.

Ultimately, visitors have arrived at the starting line for a new adventure after passing through the southern rice fields along the coastal rea of Tabanan. What a great trip it has been. Makes hungry for more.

Traveling Bali is exciting and refreshing, and one such trip just makes you want to start again and see it all over again.

About the Author: Dave Waldheim is editor of the Bali hotels and Bali travel information website where you can find articles of local and expat writers that actually live there and get previews of some of the leading Bali hotels in every price category.

The Best European Golf Destinations For Family Holidays by R. Ritchie

2007-01-19T07:06:00.000-08:00

Golf holidaying with a family presents its own special challenges. Keeping non-golfers in the family happy and feeling like they are having a real holiday, while at the same time getting your fill of golf, is worth that bit of extra travel planning. The following European golf resort holiday destinations are perfect for family holidays.

Central Algarve

Central Algarve, with its beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and exceptional golf courses, is one of Europe's top golfing destinations. Resorts such as Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, and Vale do Lobo, and Vilamoura offer much more than golf and will provide non-golfers with all the holiday variety they would expect from a first-class resort. At Quinta do Lago, a 2,000-acre exclusive residential and recreational estate, you have countryside and pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Ria Formosa nature reserve as your playground, plus 72 holes of golf. Horse riding and tennis as well as a variety of water sports will keep your family occupied during the day, and there are classy restaurants, hip nightclubs for night-time entertainment, as well as the Bourganvilla Shopping Centre and a health club. The stunning two-mile stretch of golden-sand is a bonus.

Vale do Lobo, receiver of accolades such as “Best Resort of the Millennium", and the Algarve’s largest leisure resort, has quality accommodation and diverse sporting facilities, including one of the largest tennis facilities in Portugal. Vale do Lobo, with its two (going on three) 18-hole championship courses, hosts around 100,000 golfers each year.

Vilamoura, twice the size of Vale do Lobo, has tennis courts, a riding school, fishing and shooting facilities, and indoor and outdoor sports complexes, as well as five golf courses. Amazing vessels are moored at the large marina, home to restaurants, cafes and shops. A surprisingly cosmopolitan nightlife consists of bars, clubs and restaurants.

Costa Del Sol

Costa del Sol offers variety both on and off the fairways, and the mild winters and beautiful springs and autumns are perfect for golf. There are around 20 courses, leisure areas, playgrounds and family attractions, as well as beaches and seaside promenades. Three excellent water parks are open from Easter for the summer season, with water slides, pools for all ages and abilities, as well as picnic areas and restaurants. At a number of nature parks you can see animals and enjoy educational programs. Selwo Aventura has over 2,000 wild animals and an unrivalled nature reserve, and Selwo Marina has exotic birds, an underwater observation centre, and dolphins. At the Benalmádena Sea Life Centre, an interactive underwater park, you can walk on the bottom of the sea and view thousands of aquatic species.

The Lisbon Coast

There are great golf courses here and the beaches are perfect for families. The scenery, magnificent with its small fishing bays and towering cliffs, and the superb local cuisine worth the trip alone. And nearby Lisbon, has all the diversity that a capital city can offer. Quinta da Marinha resort has leisure facilities including three salt-water outdoor swimming pools, a fitness centre with heated indoor swimming pool, six tennis courts and a tennis school, a Turkish bath, sauna, Jacuzzi, gym, massage room, bicycle hire, horse riding, and, last but not least, an 18-hole golf course.

Praia D'el Rey Marriott, just 60-minute drive from Lisbon airport, is a beachfront hotel with spacious family rooms, away from the tourist crush. The hotel has indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a health club, Jacuzzi and tennis courts. Nearby Obidos, a charming hill town set within 14th-century castellated walls, is a perfect day trip destination. And the Praia d’el Rey golf course, one of Europe’s finest, is right on your doorstep.

About the Author: Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bill Goff Golf Tours and http://www.longshotgolf.co.uk/ offer great value golfing breaks to many European and worldwide destinations.

Beach Vacations At A Modest Price by Kadence Buchanan

2007-01-18T06:56:00.000-08:00

If you were given your choice of a two-week vacation on any locale whatsoever on the face of this earth, what would you choose?

It's the beach for me. There's nothing like lying on a sun-drenched beach under the cool shade of palm trees while watching the ocean gracefully and naturally sway to and fro. It would be nice having a waiter nearby to bring you an endless supply of pina colada cocktails and fresh seafood, but that's optional.

It doesn't matter where the beach is - Hawaii, Florida, France, the Bahamas, Greece, Spain or anywhere in the Pacific - as long as you can see the relaxing waves on the ocean and soak up the sun. It's a slice of heaven on earth.

Unfortunately, for lots of people, the prohibitive cost of staying at a beachfront hotel kills all dreams of a beach vacation. However, there are cost-effective alternatives that can help you save and still retain that beach front location. Try looking for beach vacation rentals.

Beach vacation rentals are usually someone's beach front home that they rent out to tourists and other visitors. They are clean, well-furnished and comfortable and deliciously close to the beach. Living in someone else's house also has its share of advantages over renting an expensive single room at a hotel. For one thing, you have more bedrooms to occupy, lots more room for entertaining and what-not, as well as kitchen facilities. These all translate into substantial savings especially for families with five members or more.

Looking for a suitable beach vacation rental is not as difficult as it may seem. The easiest way is to look for a real estate agency in the city you will be visiting since such agencies keep listings of available beach vacation rentals, complete with photographs, rental rates and other pertinent information. It's possible to find and communicate with these real estate agencies online.

Another way is to surf the city websites of the place that you plan to visit since these usually have business directories that list everything from the neighborhood barber to the fanciest restaurants in town. Of course, the real estate agents and agencies will be listed there as well and, if you're lucky, so too will a roster of available beach rentals.

Most beach rentals are for a week or less and, if you are planning to stay longer, you can probably get a discount on your rental rate. Some of these rentals even offer a staff that will cater to your every need.

About the Author: Kadence Buchanan writes articles on many topics including Recreation, Food, and Outdoors

A Journey Through The Grand Cayman Islands by Sarah White

2007-01-18T06:16:00.000-08:00

The Cayman Islands, made famous for their incredible diving, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and year round Caribbean sunshine, are made up of 3 different islands. Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman; a fuse of Caribbean allure and American efficiency made complete with an inescapable charm from the friendly locals who will welcome you anytime. Although very small, the total landmass of the 3 islands is just 100 square miles, the grand Cayman Islands offers you the best of all worlds.

Cayman Islands weather is almost perfect year round. The winter months, Nov-Apr, the temperature ranges from 72-86 degrees during the day and 64-72 degrees at night. In the summer months, May-Oct, the temperature during the day ranges from 85-90 degrees and 73-85 degrees by night. Also, most people don’t realize just how close to the equator that these islands lay and that means that the sun is HOT. The islands are cooled by the prevailing trade winds but don’t let this fool you, take the sun in small doses and always wear lots of sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Given the beautiful Cayman Islands weather, do be aware that it does occasionally rain there! You might want an umbrella just in case. The rainy season starts in May and ends in October with the 2 rainiest months being May and October. March and April are usually the driest.

One of the things that you will experience on the Cayman islands, is world class dining. With over 150 places to eat that range from elegant fine dining to budget fast food and take out, there is something for everyone. Traditional Cayman cuisine has a strong Jamaican influence. Traditional dishes feature seafood cooked in a variety of ways, lobster and conch. Local dishes are often served with coconut, plantain, yams, rice and peas, along with other West Indian side dishes. You can also find many other alternative choices that include; Italian, Mexican, Thai, Chinese, Japanese, German and so many others! When it comes to tipping, keep in mind that most hotels add a 5-10% service charge and many restaurants add a 10-15% service charge but some don’t. It’s best to check your bill to see if the service has been added and feel free to reward those who give what you feel is exceptional service.

Shopping and nightlife; there is certainly no shortage on the Grand Cayman islands! You will find a wide variety of nightlife and entertainment from lively nightclubs, to watching live international and local bands perform, to pool halls, lounges and the theatre. Bars, clubs and dancehalls close at 3am during the weekdays, midnight on Saturdays and there are no nightclubs open on Sundays. When you arrive, you will be able to find local informational magazines, free of charge that will list all the special events and current happenings on the islands. The Cayman Islands enjoy tax free status which also means they have duty free status. You will be able to find items such as fine jewellery, watches, crystal, perfumes and china that can be as much as 30% cheaper there. One of the best places to go shopping is in the capitol of George Town in Grand Cayman, it is home to one of the nicest shopping centers in the Caribbean! The local currency is the Cayman Islands dollar and it is equivalent to $1.25 USD. It is a fixed exchange rate and never changes. American currency is generally accepted, as well as all major credit cards, and the CI dollar.

There are many options for getting around on the Grand Cayman Islands; taxis, public transportation, car rentals to mopeds and scooters. Upon arrival, you will find many taxis that are available from the airport and are readily available from all resorts. You will find fixed rates per vehicle or per person to all points on the island. This information is available from the taxi driver and there is also a sign with current rates posted at the cruise ship dock in George Town. One of the Caribbean’s most extensive fleet of modern rental cars are found here in the Cayman’s. Driving is on the left hand side of the road but you can find many rentals that feature right hand driving. Visitor’s need to obtain temporary driver’s licenses from the rental agency but this is easily done by presenting a valid driver’s license from your country and being over 21, although not all agencies will insure you if you are under 25. Rentals are readily available from Grand Cayman while there are more limited numbers of them on Little Cayman and Cayman Brac. Car rentals can be booked before arriving on Grand Cayman and it is advisable to do so during the winter months. A public bus terminal is located in downtown George Town and serves as a dispatch point to all the districts, service starts at 6am. There are also several mini buses that are operated by licensed operators that serve 8 routes.

The Cayman Islands have so much to offer and possesses unsurpassed beauty under the sea due to their protected Marine Parks. You can easily see why so many people realize their dreams here and love visiting this tropical paradise.

About the Author: At Tropical Beach Destinations we share the secrets of Specialty Travel that your travel agents wish they knew. Learn exclusive travel tips, ideas and ways to save money from REAL experienced world travelers!

Great San Diego Attractions by Barbara Miller

2007-01-17T00:26:00.000-08:00

Picture yourself relaxing on a sandy beach while your kids run and jump in the waves. Maybe you'll decide to scoot over to Mexico for lunch, visit with the Panda bears, or spend the afternoon riding a scenic trolley. Can't decide which of these vacation activities sound most appealing? Experience it all with a San Diego vacation.

There are so many San Diego attractions to enjoy and explore, it seems like many vacation destinations rolled into one. Plan ahead and your family will have an unforgettable holiday. Here are eight "must experience" places to visit and activities to try on your trip to beautiful San Diego:

1. Hit the Beach

San Diego beaches are spectacular year-round. Whether you visit in summer or over the winter holidays, the local beaches personify the complete San Diego lifestyle. Visit gorgeous Mission Beach. Ride the Belmont Park roller coaster. From bodysurfing to soaking up the rays, San Diego beaches are definitely where the action is.

2. Shuffle off to Mexico

The city of Tijuana is just across the Mexican border from San Diego. Taking a side trip to Tijuana or Baja is easy and quite safe; just bring your passport and be mindful of the Mexican laws. There is an international paradise ready to be explored, so say "Si" to a day in Mexico.

3. Catch a Fish Taco

Not exactly a famous San Diego attraction, rather a must-try taste of the city, fish tacos are pieces of battered and deep-fried fish encased in a corn tortilla. Try one, and you'll want to come back to San Diego just for another taste of this local treat. Visitors to San Diego say that fish tacos are among the city's best foods.

4. Take a Trolley Ride

San Francisco isn't the only California city with a famous trolley. The San Diego trolley serves as the city's public transit system. You can buy an all-day pass and see more San Diego attractions than you ever could by car. The San Diego highways can be quite intimidating, making the trolley your best bet for stress-free sightseeing.

5. Visit the Pandas

The famous San Diego Zoo at Balboa Park is a popular tourist destination, but the pandas are the real attractions. Baby Su Lin and the other pandas are most active in the morning, so plan to see them first on your trip to San Diego zoo. Sea World and Legoland are also great choices for entertaining your "little animals".

6. Balboa Park

The undisputed shining jewel of San Diego is Balboa Park. It's the nation's largest urban cultural park, housing fifteen museums, renowned performing arts venues, beautiful gardens and the San Diego Zoo. The atmosphere is breathtaking no matter when you stop by, but if you visit on Tuesdays you'll find that most museums offer free admission. After you work up an appetite exploring Balboa, stop at Prado or any of the fine restaurants within the park for a fantastic meal in a beautiful setting.

7. Nightlife

The historic Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego is the place to be for eating, dancing and people watching. Shop, snack and take in the stunning architecture during the day. At night, there are more than 90 restaurants plus live theatre and countless nightclubs to choose from. Gaslamp is the place to let loose in San Diego.

8. Old Town

History buffs can find bits of Old San Diego incorporated with new developments throughout the city. Visit Old Town State Historic Park for a blast of San Diego's past. Make sure you visit the Old Town Mexican Cafe, as it serves the best Mexican food San Diego has to offer.

If your family is torn between exciting excursions, historic America, exotic adventure or a tropical paradise, visit San Diego. The variety of San Diego attractions offers the best of all worlds in one vacation destination.

About the Author: Barbara Miller contributes to several web magazines, on recreation and travel and fun hobbies themes.

White Sand And Golden Tan: Welcome To Miami - Travel Information by John Binder

2007-01-13T04:28:00.000-08:00

Modern-day Miami is the idyllic vacation destination for most Americans as it is a balanced blend of urban and tropical, a resort locale on one hand with all the big city trimmings of a booming economy on the other. Small cafes and art deco bars of Miami Beach exist alongside the megaclubs and skyrise hotels of Downtown’s Financial District. Somewhere in between, the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve provides exciting sea adventures for the whole family and the Port of Miami supplies access to the Florida Keys and the Bahamas by way of major cruise ship.

Cosmopolitan Chic: a Global Retreat

Finding airfare to Miami from any destination worldwide has become easy since Miami has positioned itself on the international map culturally, financially and demographically over the last few decades. Miami struggled with an influx of immigration from the Caribbean, Cuba and South America combined with a massive exodus of financial capital throughout most of the 20th century. Today, Miami has bounced back with full force, overflowing with the swankiest restaurants, premier nightlife, designer shopping and restored historic art deco hotels that glitter the oceanfront avenues of South Beach.

A walk along Collins Avenue in South Beach will reveal the charm of rehabilitated 1920s architecture, commingling with a Latin and European flair of sidewalk cafes, designer boutiques and the buzz of multiple languages afloat through the air. Farther north into main Miami Beach along Ocean Avenue offers the luxurious beach club hotels that Miami is famous for. These hotels offer panoramic ocean views, self-contained clubs and lounges and a pool with private access to the crashing ocean waves.

The dining in Miami is just as representative of its multicultural population. Do not miss a Cuban meal (or two) and the Argentinean special of flash-fried steak. Ask a local for the best authentic cooking and make sure to brush up on some Spanish ahead of time. Miami has also become the epicenter of sophisticated cuisine. Celebrity chefs Nobu Matsuhisa and Emeril Lagasse have opened restaurants in South Beach and the Blue Door inside the breathtaking Delano Hotel is also a notable standout. Make sure to have stone crabs at one of your meals, a local specialty!

Feeling the Salty Breeze of Miami

Aside from eating, drinking and otherwise resort and spa life, Miami has an endless array of activities for all levels of interest. Snorkeling and Scuba diving are the most common activities, along with boat and Jet Ski rentals from most major ports along the bay. Book a sunset ride at the Tropical Park Equestrian Center or rent a kayak to take a scenic tour of the majestic mansions the line the bay along the mainland.

It’s time to come see the dramatic beautification and restoration of Miami for yourself. Book your airfare to Miami now and reserve a few nights in one of the historic boutique art deco hotels along Collins Avenue to get the full South Beach experience.

About the Author: For more information about Miami and discount airfare to Miami, check out www.cfares.com.

Visit Travelocity for Miami Deals

Take Your Next Vacation In Murcia Spain By Johnathan Bakers

2007-01-12T07:01:00.000-08:00

If you have never traveled to Murcia on vacation, you should give this destination some consideration. Murcia has everything to offer a vacationer-wonderful beaches, perfect weather, interesting sights, and it lacks the one thing the vacationer can do without-tourist crowds. This beautiful area of Spain has so much to offer that it can almost be considered the perfect vacation spot. For any kind of vacation, whether you like to just relax and soak up the sun, or you prefer to visit lovely old towns and historic sites, Murcia will satisfy you.

Today, there are many special package deals offering airfare and hotel accommodations, so a visit to this ideal vacation spot does not have to cost a fortune. You can find lots to do, day and night, with visits to museums, attractions, spas, historical sites, beach resorts and marinas and exciting night life at restaurants, clubs and dance clubs at your disposal. It doesn't matter if you are traveling alone, with a friend or partner, or with your entire family, you will find that there is a perfect mix of relaxation, sightseeing, fun and adventure for everyone in this marvelous town.

With all of the possibilities open to the visitor, no one can be bored in Murcia unless they want to be. Laying on the beach or by the pool is always an option, but many prefer to stroll through the streets of the lovely old town. There is beautiful architecture to admire, and museums and cathedrals to visit.

Plan your vacation carefully, and you can be sure to find a great package deal that will leave you with enough funds to still enjoy all the sights and attractions you will want to visit. If you do your research in the Internet, you are sure to find a number of affordable packages into Murcia airport as well as budget-minded places to stay. You can choose from different airlines, different days and flight times, and different places to stay. Take into consideration who you will be traveling with in order to find the right accommodations to suit everyone.

Besides hotels and resorts, there are apartments and villas for rent. The wonderful thing about the Internet is that you can see each of the offered deals and then compare prices and available dates before you decide on the best one for you. Booking a package deal once you have found it couldn't be easier if you do it on the Internet; you don't even have to leave your desk.

About the Author: Johnathan Bakers regularly publishes detailed reports on news similar to Spain and airport. You can see his articles on Murcia over at http://www.alicante-spain.com.

Honeymoon Cruise In Hawaii By Chris Chew

2007-01-08T06:26:00.000-08:00

Millions of people travel to Hawaii every year. Amongst the visitors are thousands of young couples getting married or are having their honeymoon in tropical Hawaii. In order make the honeymoon even more romantic and memorable, many couples choose to go on Hawaii honeymoon cruises. There are many marriage agencies to help these couples to get married, plan their honeymoon and book cruises for them.

Hawaii made history when Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese during world war 2. Since then many movies have re-enacted this event. Many other movies were also made about Hawaii because of its lush tropical landscape, volcanic mountains and beautiful romantic islands.

Elvis Presley starred in perhaps the most well known movie about Hawaii in the romantic movie 'Blue Hawai'. Another well known movie was the musical 'South Pacific'. All these movies presented to the world the beautiful exotic charm of the Hawaiian Islands and depict the state as a romantic holiday destination.

Given this romantic representation of Hawaii, it naturally attracts romantic couples to the Hawaiian shores. Since the Hawaii is made up of many pacific islands, what better way to honeymoon in Hawaii than choosing Hawaiian honeymoon cruises?

Hawaii a paradise filled with beautiful beaches, scenic volcanoes and many other tourist attractions. The Hawaiian islands are located in the Pacific Ocean near Polynesia. It is the fascinating and awe inspiring natural landscape that draws millions of tourists to Hawaii every year.

Peak tourism months are November to March. During this time, Hawaiian honeymoon cruises must be booked way well in advance. This is also the peak season for surfing and whale watching making the northern shore of Oahu and Maui islands very popular for honeymooners to disembark and enjoy themselves on the Hawaiian shores.

Popular islands for visiting tourists are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii's Big Island. These islands are all networked by two local airlines with inter-connections between islands. Nine in every ten visitors will visit Oahu where the famed Waikiki Beach and the state's capital city, Honolulu resides.

It is fun to immerse yourself in the culture of the Hawaiian people. Couples can try their hands at dancing the hula hula and taking part in a luau (Hawaiian feast).If you are interested in the local culture, go and discover the uniquely blended Hawaiian, Portuguese, and Mexican cultures - still alive and celebrated among Hawaiian paniolo (cowboys) on the island's big ranches.

If you are a history buff, do take a visit to the historical Kealakekua Bay where Captain James Cook was killed in 1779 by the islanders or Pearl Harbor, the scene of destruction by the Japanese on the navy US fleet more than half a century ago.

Thinking of going for a romantic honeymoon? Try Hawaiian honeymoon island cruises and have a memorable vacation.

About the Author: Chris Chew is an author and avid traveler. Cruise vacations and Snorkel Hawaii

Philippine Travel: Ongpin Aka Chinatown by Dan Eggers

2007-01-06T05:22:00.000-08:00

If your Asia tour includes a long stay in the Philippines, we suggest that you add in a visit to Ongpin or Chinatown, which is how most people call it as well, as part of your travel program, especially if you’ll in Manila – the capital city of the country – for a while yet.

Ongpin or Chinatown may not be as popular as other places in the Philippines but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be part of your travel schedule. Not only is a visit to Ongpin guaranteed to be delightful in more ways than one, it also won’t cost you much because prices in Ongpin are more affordable than what you’d find in other cities like Makati or even Quezon City.

Ongpin is also mainly a residential town so it’s easier to tour the place rather than other cities, which would require you to take on huge buses and six-wheeler trucks just to cross the street.

Because Ongpin is not that big a town, the streets are mostly narrow, winding and filled with people. If you’re planning to drive your own car to Ongpin, you might be forced then to park somewhere and walk for the rest of the time you’ll be spending in Binondo. But that’s not really much of a punishment – except for your feet, if you’re wearing high heels! – because a lot of people really prefer to wander around Ongpin by foot.

Food Shopping

Fruits – Almost all kinds of fruits are sold in the streets of Ongpin and if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you could try out some of the exotic fruits being offered by street vendors such as the mangosteen or the huge apple-mango. Highly popular with the Filipino Chinese residents of Ongpin are rambutan, longgans, lanzones and chicos. When you get to Ongpin, be sure that you do try all those fruits and more since one can never get fat with fruits, anyway.

Delicacies – When you get to Ongpin, do be sure that you’ll be able to make a pit stop at any of the Chinese food stores of Ongpin. One of the most popular stores of this type is Eng Bee Tin. There, you’ll be able to find all sorts of Chinese delicacies that people back home would surely be delighted with.

Main Dishes – Tired after walking nonstop for an hour or so? If that’s the case, we suggest that you try relaxing your feet on any of the restaurants located in Ongpin. Try out popular Chinese dishes and the exotic ones as well so your trip to Ongpin will be truly memorable.

About The Author: Dan Eggers live in Dumaguete City in the Philippines, his Dumaguete City Guide can be found at http://www.dumagueteinfo.com/ and his lively Dumaguete Forum at http://www.dumagueteinfo.com/board/