Holiday Mediterranean

Private accommodation in Menorca, find it here.

2011-02-24T17:29:00.001Z

Here's a really useful site, if you have a property to let in Menorca you can advertise it here for free!

And if your looking for a property to stay in for your trip to Menorca, you should find what your looking for

at www.alquilamenorca.com,all types of property in all locations of Menorca!

www.alquilamenorca.com The largest selection of holiday and tourist accommodation in Menorca

Introducing the new website for exclusive rentals and tourist accommodations in Menorca.

This is a free service for advertisers and users.

In this video I do a demonstration of some advanced tools that give us
www.alquilamenorca.com

jet2hols - sunshine.co.uk - Co-op Travel - Thomson - First Choice

Resort Guide to Cala Galdana menorca, Have a truly relaxing holiday with Co-op travel.

2011-01-23T13:48:00.000Z

One of Menorca’s most stunning beaches, family favourite Cala Galdana offers an unbeatable combo - pale sands, shallow seas and plenty of diversions for all ages."
If you like your beaches with a bit of life, then Cala Galdana is your kind of place. One of Menorca’s most exquisite bays, there’s a happening, gentle atmosphere here that provides a happy holiday setting.
Brace yourself though - the beach is a knockout. Sheltered by high limestone cliffs on one side, the silvery sands melt into turquoise waters that are so glassy you can see the seabed below. All around, pine trees infuse the air with the lightest of scents, mixing with gentle coastal breezes, before wafting through the open-air restaurants overlooking the sands. Add it all up and it’s easy to see why Galdana gets busy, as people revel in its sands, shallow seas and heart-lifting views.
Further along this south-western shoreline, you’ll find several other stunning beaches flanked by pinewoods and many with tiny, ancient caves. One of the most beautiful, Macarella is just a short stroll from Galdana, while the bigger bays of Son Bou and Cala’n Porter are ideal day-out material.
On the subject of trips, you won’t be lacking in choice. Pack your swim gear and take a boat trip to bathe in tiny, solitary coves. For a dose of urban life, travel to Cuidadela, the island’s ancient capital, to meander around its cobbled lanes, buy butter-soft leatherware and enjoy the pretty quayside restaurants.
Back in Galdana, don’t expect frenzied nighttime partying. Evenings here are about good food, wine - and maybe an almond-flavoured Menorcan palo – at the resort’s Spanish and international restaurants. And should want a quicker pace, the bright lights of Son Bou beckon from down the coast.

Balearic Islands Major Events 2010-2011

2010-09-28T16:56:00.001+01:00

January
On January 16th and 17th the fiesta Revelta I Beneides de Sant Antoni Abat takes place in Mallorca. This popular fiesta celebrates the spirit of the island and its traditions. Locals and visitors alike dance to local traditional music by bonfire and the area is awash with colour. Join in the parades and sing along to the musical extravaganzas.
In Menorca, the Processo dels Tres Tocs is celebrated on January 17 in Ciutadella. This celebrates the 1278 victory of a local Minorca king against Muslim invaders.
April
Festa Sant Jordi - April 23rd, this feast day of the patron saint of many towns and villages is celebrated on all the islands.
One of the most important yachting regattas in the Balearic Islands takes place in Palma, Mallorca - The Princess Sofia Trophy.
May
On the first Sunday in May one of the most colourful spring flower festivals takes place in Santa Eulalia in Ibiza.
Held over a three-day period and attracting more than 100,000 visitors, the Eivissa Medieval festival transforms Ibiza old town into its medieval past with minstrels, falcon trainers, spice merchants, dancers and hundreds of market stalls.
June
On June 13th The festival of Sant Antoni de Juny is held in Arta, Mallorca. The celebration includes parades of locals dressed up as horses. On the 24th June in Ciutadella, Menorca, the fiesta Sant Joan is held, also King Juan Carlos's name day. Horse lovers will delight at this festival, as horses are a major part of the celebration.
August
On the first week of August in Palma, Mallorca, the very popular yachting regatta the Copa del Rey takes place. On Previous years members of the Spanish Royal family were in attendance as well as many celebrities from the world of stage and screen.
This month (8th Aug) also sees the celebration of Fiesta Sant Ciriac, which commemorates the reconquest of the Balearics by the Spanish in 1235. What is unique about this celebration is that visitors can battle it out in a watermelon fight, which precedes a magnificent firework display.
September
Les Festes de La Beata, celebrated usually on the first Sunday of September honours Sant Catalina. The Fiesta is held in Santa Margalida with lively processions and street parties commemorating the saint's beatification by Pope Pius VI. On the Saturday evening before, a procession of floats leaves the local church followed by music and dance. Food is also served and children usually dress up in devil costumes and run through the streets.
October
If you are thinking of heading off to The Balearics for mid term, take the kids to the annual Festa dies Butifarro held in Sant Joan, Mallorca on the third Sunday in October each year. The focus for this festival is on Mallorcan culture and food especially the tasty sausages consumed in large amounts. Visitors are also treated to a variety of folk music and dance.
November
Held each year on 4th November, the fiesta Sant Carles is the Patron saint of Ibiza's day and is celebrated throughout the island. Celebrations are known to continue throughout the month of November with sporting tournaments, paella eating, music extravaganzas, folk dancing and even a mushroom picking competition.
December
A number of fiestas take place each year throughout the Balearics in December. Noche Buena celebrates Christmas on the 24th December on all of the islands with nativity plays, Christmas carols and midnight mass. The Festa de l'Estandard takes place each year on 31st December in Palma, Mallorca and commemorates Palma's conquest in 1229.

Aidan writes for top travel and accommodation website PlacesToStay.com
Visit PlacesToStay.com to book a wide range of carefully selected hotels in Ireland, Europe and throughout the world at great value prices!

Heading to The Balearics soon? Then check out our Ibiza Hotels page for a comprehensive range of budget, mid range and luxury hotels in Ibiza.

Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Aidan_Fitzgerald

Stag and hen party paradise in Majorca

2010-08-25T12:02:00.002+01:00

Hotels in Spain are always a popular choice among holidaymakers of all kinds, from backpacking trips to family holidays. They are also a regular haunt for potentially the liveliest holiday groups of all - stag and hen parties.
Just a two to two-and-a-half-hour flight from most UK airports, the island of Majorca is a short hop to a fun getaway. Boasting approximately 550 km of gorgeous coastline, high temperatures and vibrant nightlife, it is no surprise that hotels in Majorca are a huge draw for stag and hen groups.
Enticingly, Majorca's prices are ever more competitive compared with those of its sister island and clubbing rival, Ibiza - both in the search for hotels and drink prices. Furthermore, the comparatively low costs do not mean a drop in the quality of entertainment.
Majorca has a steady stream of bars and clubs ready to cater for the needs of stag and hen parties. The vast majority welcome these groups; however, if you are planning a particularly big night out it is worthwhile double checking that the bars you have lined up will be happy to accommodate you.
Among the biggest clubs to visit is the famous BCM Planet Dance - with a capacity for an enormous 5,000 people - and the extremely trendy Pacha. The south side of the island is the liveliest area to be in, with clubbers flocking there in their thousands.
Magaluf remains a popular destination for nightlife-lovers, with a reputation for being a city that never sleeps. It is also the location of the raunchy Dorado Night City, reputed to be the most risque destination for stag and hen parties in Majorca. Erotic shows feature nightly, sure to please most stag groups looking for a wild trip before the groom ties the knot.
The capital city, Palma, is also a great area to hit on a night out. Blessed with a plethora of bars and clubs, it can certainly hold its own against Magaluf when it comes to a evening spent painting the town red.
Despite its distinctly modern appearance, Palma has more to offer than just the clubbing scene. If you are looking to soak up a bit of culture in between nights out on your trip, then Palma is the ideal city to visit, with such delights as the Castle of Bellver and the Royal Palace located near its port.
Adventure-lovers need not fear either - Majorca offers a host of activities perfect for stag and hen parties, such as diving, snorkelling and waterskiing to give you opportunities to feel the rush of adrenaline as well as the relaxation to be found from the great outdoors.
It may be that lazy days in the sun are what you are craving most; if that is the case, Majorca is sure not to disappoint. Its many beaches offer a sunny place to rest and recuperate after nights out on the town, or to play some sports with your friends.
Majorca can cater to virtually any kind of hen or stag party, be it wild and non-stop, adventurous or just plain relaxing and lazy. It is a wonderful bonus that such an ideal location is available at a lower cost than some of its rivals.

About the Author

The search for hotels is quick and easy with Hotelopia. Providing a wonderful selection of hotels in Spain at the click of a button, we are particularly proud of our Majorca hotels - perfect for stag and hen parties.

Menorca hotels,apartments and villa videos

2010-08-08T16:28:00.000+01:00

A Guide to Diving in Spain

2010-04-06T14:39:00.001+01:00

Diving is unlike anything else except, perhaps, going into space, but better. With over 4000km of coastline Spain offers a wide choice of sites for beginners to the most experienced of divers. Spain is a fun place for Diving, combining both adventure and sport. It is possible to dive all year round, however, the warm Mediterranean waters of southern Spain offer a more comfortable experience and there are many companies in this area that are more likely to speak English than in the less touristy areas of Spain. Summers are hot, Spring and Autumn mild. The best time for diving is May to September, although the Canaries offer great year-round diving.
Some highlights of diving in Spain are the abundance of Moray eels, Wrasse, soft corals, scorpion fish and octopi which can be seen along the coastline of the Costa del Sol. The Atlantic coast is less popular for overseas divers due to the less developed tourism in the area but still offers some great dive sites. The waters here are colder and English is less widely spoken however the areas of San Sebastian and La Coruna are the main dive centres on this coast. The Balearic and Canaries are good dive locations with Tenerife being the jewel of the islands where Stingrays, Sharks, Baracuda and Octopii can be seen as well as some spectacular geological formations and visibility in all dives sites is good to very good.
Spanish Law states you must be over 16 years of age to engage in scuba diving activities in Spain. Some autonomous regional governments have passed their own laws to relax this limit - but please do check with local dive centers before booking and ensure you have adequate insurance to cover you for this activity.
Spain has a huge variety of diving sites, here are the most popular:
COSTA BLANCA:
Costa Blanca South: The area of Santa Pola / La Marina, located 30 minutes south of Alicante, offers wreck and reef diving, deep diving and a range of courses. An added plus in this area is the Island of Tabarca situation 20 minutes by boat from the main coastline, however diving within this marine reserve will require a special permit. Also, situated in the South east corner of Murcia, La Manga, Cabo de Palos offers a wide range of dives including recreation and Tech diving as well as courses and dives are offered to wrecks, reefs, caves and submerged pinnacles of volcanic rock. 8 main dives sites are offered as well as deeper dive sites for the more experienced. The added benefit for divers here is that the Mediterranean lying to the east has summer water temperatures of 26-28C
Costa Blanca North: Located in Javea, dive schools will take you to a number of the 10 sites located just off the coast. Situated just North of Barcelona, the area of Lloret de Mar is popular with British tourist. A number of dives as well as other watersports including water skiing are readily available here. Close proximity to Girona airport makes this area easily accessible even for just a short break or weekend stay. Also, situated in the South east corner of Murcia, La Manga, Cabo de Palos offers a wide range of dives including recreation and Tech diving as well as courses and dives are offered to wrecks, reefs, caves and submerged pinnacles of volcanic rock. 8 main dives sites are offered as well as deeper dive sites for the more experienced. The added benefit for divers here is that the Mediterranean lying to the east has summer water temperatures of 26-28C
COSTA BRAVA: Located around the area of Estartit, Medes Islands Nature reserve there are a number of dive sites to explore. Further along the coast, the area of Rosas, Cap de Creus Natural park offers a unique location between 2 different coastal types and has a number of relatively unspoilt dive sites offering dramatic underwater scenery.
COSTA DEL SOL: Marbella and the surrounding areas of Fuengirola, Torremolinos and Benalmadena are situated in the heart of Spain's Costa del Sol. Dive centres here offer PADI courses and train all divers from entry level up to and including Dive Master. Dives sites include Torreblanca reef, Nerja and Tarifa.
ALCUDIA: In Alcudia there is a British owned dive centre with English, German and Spanish speaking instructors, offering a full range of PADI courses up to and including Instructor. There are facilities including classrooms and heated training pools based in Porto Pollensa (Club Pollentia) Playa De Muro (Esperanza Complex) and a booking centre in Alcudia Mar. Open water and guided shore dives are some are among the packages offered.
COSTA TROPICAL: Salobreña, Motril, Almuñécar, La Herradura, Nerja or Calahonda Suitable, safe and interesting dive spots are the locations and both courses and fun dives are available. Located close to Granada and Malaga airports, this area is great for holidays where some of the party dives and others don't as there are so many other water sports and tourist attractions on land, it makes the perfect holiday for all.
MENORCA: Menorca offers a range of diving, from Caves and wrecks to beginners and padi courses. Along the beautiful coastline there are many different types of courses, day and course dives on offer.
ALMUNECA: Located in a beautiful location on Granada's tropical coast. There are 9 dives sites in the area in total including Punta de la Mona, Marina del Esta, Tres Picos and Cantarrijan. With shore diving, open water and a variety of courses available, this area is a great location for a dive holiday.
COSTA AZAHAR: You will find 8 dives sites, including the island columbrettas, located around the area of Oropesa.
CABO DE GATA: Las Negras is a beautiful fishing village located in Cabo de Gata - Nijar Natural Park. With its crystal clear waters this area is great for not only diving but snorkelling alike.
http://www.spanishholidaysdirect.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Suttle

Ibiza videos

2010-03-28T16:48:00.000+01:00

Travel Guide on the Hippy Market in Ibiza

Travel Guide on the Night Life in Ibiza

Background Information on Ibiza

Travel Guide on Santa Eularia in Ibiza

Santa eularia travel guide

Travel Guide on San Antonio in Ibiza

San antonio travel guide

By: ShepherdFilm
Travel videos for hundreds of destinations that will help you plan your next vacation.

Visit the Island of Ibiza in Spain

Holidays-Direct announce the top 5 Mediterranean holidays for families by Holidays-Direct

2010-03-28T15:52:00.000+01:00

Family holidays to Mediterranean resorts are continually popular, however Holidays-Direct has noticed that with the current pound/Euro exchange rate, families are keen to get the best value for money. Choosing all-inclusive package holidays with added extras for family holidays will also cut out unnecessary costs when travelling from local airports as well as food costs.
Top resorts for families in the Mediterranean for summer 2010 are:Majorca - AlcudiaTurkey - MarmarisCrete - RethymnonIbiza - Santa EulaliaTunisia - Port el Kantaoui
Spanish holiday resorts have always been popular with British holidaymakers for cheap sunny holidays and family getaways. In recent months bookings have increased to Majorca, Ibiza and the Cost del Sol after a decline last year. Alcudia in Majorca has everything for families and offers a range of activities in the sea as well as historic trips to the old town. Majorca is a favourite family holiday destination as it offers everything families need on holiday.
Turkey has recently become a popular family resort as the weather is pretty good all year round. Previously the Marmaris resort in turkey was more popular for couples and group holidays however families are choosing value for money all inclusive holidays to maximise their budgets.
The Greek isle of Crete is situated in the Mediterranean and has many family orientated resorts with all inclusive, half board and self catering family holidays to offer. The Rethymnon resort is popular with families throughout the summer period and has plenty of facilities to suit the needs of all the family.
Port el Kantaoui and Sousse in Tunisia is popular with families for half board and self catering holidays and is great value for money for buying food and drinks. There are many excursions and entertainment nights to suit the needs of a family holiday.
All the resorts are growing again in popularity and are well served by local airports around the UK and offer accommodation that is best designed for families holidaying in the Mediterranean. Holidays-Direct tailor holidays to the needs of customers and have experienced sales representatives on hand, booking holidays with http://www.holidays-direct.co.uk is made easy.

For more information about Midlands Co-operative Travel please contact:Julie Carey / Laure Doucet / Dawn Walker at Midlands Co-operative on 01543 414140 Email - firstname.lastname@midlandsco-op.com Log onto - http://www.midlandsco-op.com/pr/ Holidays-DirectCentral HouseHermes RdEastern AvenueLichfieldStaffsWS13 6RH
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For media enquiries, please contact -Janine CrossOnline News CoordinatorWebCertain Group LtdNorthminster Business ParkYorkYO26 6QWUnited Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1904 780030
About the Author
Online travel agency http://www.holidays-direct.co.uk is part of the Midlands Co-operative Society Group and is a member of ABTA. They specialise in providing affordable flights and accommodation in the top holiday destinations around the world.Midlands Co-op Travel, incorporating Ilkeston Co-op Travel, is the No 1 independent travel agent in the Midlands.

Holiday Rental - Spain - Sunny Menorca For Your Summer Holiday in 2010

2010-01-17T18:47:00.001Z

Thinking about a villa holiday rental in Spain for your summer holidays can give you a warm glow which can help you get through the dark days of winter. One such sunny Spanish holiday destination is Menorca (Minorca), one of the Balearic Islands. It is one of the smaller Balearic Islands and is relatively unspoilt and quiet in comparison to Mallorca and Ibiza. It has a wide variety of hotels, villas and apartments to suit most tastes and budgets. You can even book a luxury villa rental or a modest holiday apartment rental direct from the property owners and save on your holiday costs.
Menorca is one of the most popular Mediterranean island destinations for a family holiday. Hot sunny days are almost guaranteed and there is an extensive range of privately owned villas and apartments to choose from for your summer holiday rental in Spain. You can choose from a villa holiday letting in Spain in the hills with a swimming pool and a view of the sea, to a holiday apartment rental near the beach that the kids will love. Menorca is a small island and everything is within easy reach including the picturesque little villages and the many small coves and beaches.
If you are looking for a holiday letting in Spain in a quiet and peaceful location then Menorca may well have the holiday apartment rental or the vacation villa rental you seek. The island is ideal for families and for those looking for a place to unwind in a tranquil setting. The pace of life is far slower than that of the neighbouring island of Mallorca which tends to have a more rowdy, party atmosphere. If you choose your holiday rental in Spain in Menorca you will find that in the evenings most visitors are content to eat out in one of the excellent restaurants or enjoy a drink in one of the many bars.
Menorca has more beaches than the other Balearic Islands, ranging from small secluded havens surrounded by rocks, to long golden-sand beaches with beach bars. On the south coast Cala en Porter is in a lovely cove, surrounded by imposing cliffs and it offers safe bathing and all the tourist amenities you could possibly need. Worth visiting on the west coast is Cala Macarella which is more remote but is accessible by car from Ciutadella. It is a very beautiful beach and popular despite the fact that there are few tourist facilities. If you choose your villa or apartment holiday rental in Spain in Menorca you will be able to enjoy lazy days on the beach followed by leisurely meals and if you want a bit of exercise try some of the picturesque coastal walks.
Staying in an apartment or villa holiday letting in Spain on the island of Menorca means you will have access to plenty of fun activities for all the family. There are watersports available on the beaches but for an exciting day out you can visit the Los Delfines Aquapark which has water tunnels and giant slides and can be found near Ciutadella. For families who enjoy the countryside and want a day away from their apartment or villa holiday rental in Spain we would recommend a visit to the S'Albufera des Grau Nature Reserve in the north of the island along the coast from Cap de Favaritx. It is a beautiful area with a lagoon and wetlands which are home to many species of birds including rock-thrushes, rock doves and peregrines.
If you decide to book your holiday rental in Spain in Menorca you should try to visit Mahon the capital of the island. Mahon is the ideal antidote to an excess of sun and sand with its bustling pedestrianised streets lined by interesting shops - look out for leather goods and pottery as well as designer clothes shops. After you have had enough shopping stop in one of the shady squares and have a break in one of the many pavement cafes. You can get a bus to Mahon from most places on the island and we would recommend that you use public transport to get to the city, as there are few places to park.
Try a villa or apartment holiday letting in Spain in sunny Menorca. A holiday apartment rental can be fantastic for a seaside break! You can book your villa holiday rentals Spain direct with the private owners. Clive Long, the author, is a Director of the Holiday-Villa-Select website which offers cost effective holiday rentals in Spain booked direct with owners who advertise their holiday villa or apartment on this website no commission charged.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clive_Long

The Climate of Majorca

2010-01-12T12:00:00.000Z

The climate of Majorca, the largest island of Spain, is typically Mediterranean with warm dry summers and cool wet winters.
The island of Majorca lies off the west coast of Spain in the Mediterranean Sea at about 40 degrees North and 50 West. It has a beautiful and mild climate. The summers are warm and sunny with the average high about 82 F (28 C) and average low of 77 F (25 C). The winters are mild to cool with the average high of 59 F (15 C) and average low of 50 F (10 C). The climate, therefore, is ideal in winters when most of western and central Europe has highs in the range of 40 F (4 C) and lows in mid twenties (about -5 C). It is no surprise then that a majority of tourists to Majorca during the winter are from these regions. The mountains to the northwest of its capital Palma are, however, 8-10 degrees cooler than the coast and report snowfall in winter. They have however a superb climate in summer when the highs are in the range of 70 F (21 C) with lot of sunshine. One thing is common to both the coast and mountain climates of Majorca and that is scantiness of rainfall in summer and its abundance in winter.
The island of Majorca, therefore, has two types of climates, both Mediterranean but one considerably cooler than the other. The mountains of the north-west are an ideal place to visit in the summer while coastal areas like the capital Palma are perfect for a visit in winter.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Waqar_Awan

5 Reasons to Visit Ibiza in 2010

2009-11-30T23:11:00.001Z

Ibiza is known as the best party island in the Mediterreanean sea, but you do not need to be a clubber in a latex-outfit to enjoy a vacation on the Balearic island. Here's a list of arguments that should give you enough reasons to consider Ibiza as a holiday destination in 2010.
1. 2010 is going to be cheap 2009 was a pretty bad year for Ibiza and visitor numbers decreased by 15-20%. There were big discounts at hotels towards the end of the summer, and you can expect these discounts to continue throughout the summer of 2010 if things do not pick themselves up.
2. It's just like England! If you head for the resort of San Antonio and visit the resort's "West End" district you will not feel like you are in Spain at all! There are plenty of pubs with names like "The Boozer" and you do not need to be Sherlock Holmes to understand what is on offer: Cheap lager, crisps and loud music. In addition there are several kebab shops, Chinese restaurants and cheesy clubs who play 80s music. The clientéle in the area is mainly young British tourists.
The "West End" in San Antonio is located in Carrer de Santa Agnes and surrounding streets.
3. Experience Ibiza's gay town Ibiza Town is home to a big gay community in the summer months. Visit the Sa Penya area along the harbour to experience the gay side of Ibiza. Expect narrow streets filled with bars, clubs and a few restaurants.
4. Quiet vacation The peak season in Ibiza is in June, July, August and September. The rest of the year the island is pretty quiet and you get to have all the beaches and restaurants to yourself.
5. Watch the sunset at Cafe del Mar Any visit to Ibiza is not complete without enjoying the view of the sun setting over Formentera in south. The best place to watch the sunset is at the world famous Cafe del Mar in San Antonio.
In addition to these 5 reasons there are plenty of other reasons why you should visit Ibiza in 2010. I have not even mentioned the superclub Pacha, a daytrip of cycling on isolated Formentera or the wild beach parties at Bora Bora Beach Club in Platja d'en Bossa.
Ken Sand is the owner of Ibiza Truth. A travel guide which wants to show you the good, the bad and the ugly side of Ibiza. The online travel guide provides you with a honest review of resorts, restaurants, hotels and attractions on the Mediterranean party island.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ken_Sand

Visiting Ibiza, Spain

2009-11-30T23:10:00.001Z

With a 2006 population of 38,000, Ibiza is the capital city of the Spanish Mediterranean Island of the same name. Legendary for its wild and edgy nightlife, Ibiza Island in contrast has many areas that are registered as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ibiza is also one of several places claiming to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, and has erected a monument, called "The Egg", in his honor.
While Ibiza has much fine old heritage to offer, let's face it -- the vast majority of visitors to Ibiza are looking for that legendary nightlife. There are two major areas that the nightlife is centered around, Ibiza Town and Sant Antoni to the west. The well known nightclubs are:
1) Privelage, the world's largest nightclub with a capacity of 10,000 people
2) Es Paradis, which is known for its water parties
3) Amnesia, which is known for its foam parties
4) Eden, the busiest club in Sant Antoni
5) Space, an afterparty club
6) DC10, appropriately named club which is set in a former airplane hangar
7) Pacha, voted #4 most popular nightclub in a 2006 DJ magazine poll
8) El Divino, a few blocks from Pacha on the Marina
9) Cafe del Mar, in Sant Antoni & known for its spectacular sunsets and chill-out music
The beginning of June marks the start of the season with parties at DC10 and Space, finishing on the first weekend of October with the closing parties. Needless to say, the partying goes all night long, and the city in an effort to move away from the nickname "Gomorrah of the Med" has instituted a few new rules such as requiring nightclubs to close by 6 AM and requiring all new hotels to be five-star.
For those seeking to take in a little of the old culture, the old town needs to be explored on foot. Enter through the dramatic main entrance across a drawbridge and go through a cobbled courtyard to the main square. You'll find the old town to be an amazingly stark contrast to the party scene as it is a journey back in time. The 16th-century walls are still standing, and the Gothic-Baroque Cathedral sits on the rocky hill above the town.
There are also some family-friendly beaches in Ibiza Town, Talamanca and Figueretes.
Ian Thorson has been writing and publishing articles on the web since 2001. Check out his latest website http://cheaphotelsinlasvegas.org where you can find ways to find cheap hotels in Las Vegas and have a great time in Vegas for less.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_Thorson

Holidaying in Majorca, Recommended Towns and Sights

2009-11-30T23:07:00.001Z

Majorca, with a hard 'j' is the name given to Mallorca on British maps. Mallorca, the local name for the island and is popular as a relaxing choice for a holiday destination, with something to offer everybody. Majorca offers variety for all types of travellers. There are beautiful sandy beaches, interesting coves and Palma has a wealth of history if that is what you are searching for. For those looking to do nothing more than to soak up the sun Majorca has long sandy beaches on offer and for those that enjoy leisurely walks try a walk along the dramatic cliff tops or explore the coves on offer all along the coastline of Majorca. There are traditional villages to sit and people watch or enjoy a long cold drink in one the superb restaurants that Majorca has to offer.
Try to time a visit a time that coincides with one of the many festivals that the island celebrates. Each village and town has a saint's day and for a week that village will hold a street party with live music, dancing and spontaneous restaurants will open up for that week for all the locals and tourists to enjoy. If you are planning a visit to Majorca in February you will see one of the colourful fiestas being celebrated, the Carnival. Children will dress up in fancy dress and again villages enjoy a party atmosphere. Semana Santa, or the Easter celebrations are again a very big affair and shops and restaurants will often close for a period of time during this more serious fiesta. Large religious processions take place with huge effigy's being carried down the roads with slow drum beats and dramatic if rather spooky looking costumes being worn by the men of the village/town. Pollensa on the north of the island sees the figure of Jesus Christ carried down the 365 steps to Calvary.
Palma city is a superb place to go for a long week-end break away. It is seeped in rich Moorish history and retains this in its architecture and cobbled streets. It is a very hip place to travel and is full or smart restaurants and top fashion boutiques as well as the famous department store El Corte Ingles. Try a traditional Spanish dish of tapas, small dishes to enjoy with a cool beer. If you enjoy seafood head for the Paseo Maritimo and enjoy some freshly caught fish of the day.
The best beaches are found to the North of the island in Alcudia, some 15km of beaches are here and as such it is a very popular tourist destination for families. It does also attract a younger crowd as the centre has a lively night time scene. To avoid this head for a quieter area, where nightclubs are not part of the scene, in Puerto Pollensa, a small and friendly fishing port. There are plenty of restaurants to enjoy and mostly self catering accommodation in this part of Majorca.
Puerto D'Antratx is on the southwest coast, a popular place to travel to where celebrities such as Anthea Turner have bought a place. It is a trendy harbour resort with very good fish restaurants and lots of smart and chic fashion boutiques. The sandy stretch of beach in Camp de Mar or Peguera are a short car drive or bus ride away. On the north side there is Cala San Vicente which was once a fishing village and is now popular for its narrow sandy beaches with clear waters that is overlooked by dramatic cliffs. It is another good place for couples and families to visit.
For a smart resort try Cala d'Or, the place to visit for small rocky and interesting coves. It has beautiful sandy beaches that are bordered by pine trees. Again here there are plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from and this resort has an upmarket feel about it.
If you are after a little bit of England in the sunshine and you want nightlife and lots of it then head for Magaluf, not far from Palma. It attracts a noisy crowd who like to party. On the promenade you will find a wealth of restaurants and bars that all serve traditional English food and this resort is very popular with the English. As the nightlife here is so lively don't expect to get a quiet night's sleep, you will be expected to join in.
Sandy beaches, rocky coves, fine restaurants, great shopping and discos from dawn to dusk, Majorca has all these to offer and so much more. You just need to decide on the type of holiday you want and then head to the right resort in Majorca for you. Do give Palma a visit though, as it doesn't seem to promote itself very well but is a truly beautiful and fun city to visit. Enjoy!
http://www.inspain.tv offers holiday rentals, long lets and sales, both apartments and villas throughout Majorca.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Meredith

Best Places to Visit on a Majorca Holiday

2009-11-30T23:06:00.001Z

Here we have the best parts of Majorca that are definitely worth seeing during your time on the island. You should try and get to at least a few of these places as they are certainly worth the investment.
Alcudia
Rich in history, Alcudia was originally home to Greek settlements until the Romans invaded in the 2nd century BC and made it their capital. It was then destroyed by vandals only to be returned to greatness by the Moors who built Alcudia. The perfectly restored walled city is a beautiful site, search for images of Alcudia to be blown away with the gorgeous city. The roman houses remain to this day.
On Majorca holidays to Alcudia you would enter the city through two town gates with two square towers where you would find two mega palm trees standing guard (seriously) which is the symbol of Alcudia. The Roman houses at Pollentia are near the amazing Teatro Romano (Roman amphitheatre) and then you have one of the oldest churches, Orator de Santa Anna. The narrow streets of the old town are a fantastic sight to see echo of Palma's Arab quarter.
Cap de Formentor
This area has amazing views, sandy beaches and Majorca's original luxury hotel. Here you will find the most amazing rock formations which attract seabirds for their nesting. The sights will be breathtaking.
One to do is visit Mirador des Colomer which is six kilometres from Port de Pollenca. Here you can head up an old watchtower which will give you a view over the whole of the peninsula as well as the bays of Alcudia and Pollenca. If you have time then you can enjoy a beautiful drive through the pine woods before coming across heading through En Fumat Mountain where you can then look down on a beautiful but unfortunately most inaccessible beach. If you fancy a break before you head back then you will find bars and shops next to the lighthouse. These places are definitely worth a visit on Majorca holidays if you want to do more than enjoy the sun and relax in the evening.
Kim has 4 years experience in the travel industry. She enjoys writing articles on various destinations and Travel related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kim_Chambers

Three Menorca Villa Holidays Resorts

2009-11-30T23:04:00.001Z

Cala Galdana
Cala Galdana is widely known as a favourite resort for Menorca villa holidays. It has all the aspects you would want from a holiday destination, with pristine beaches, an easy-going nightlife, and great scenery for walks or just relaxing.
The views are stunning in this region of Menorca, with luxury villas perched on the cliffs overlooking the bay with great sea views. As well as the striking cliffs and a horseshoe shaped bay, the town has rich pine woodland. If you fancy striking out from your Menorca villa to walk in the countryside, the Algendar Gorge provides a good route from Cala Galdana, with dramatic cliff sides rising from the path and green fields along the way.
Menorca has a history enriched by the occupations of a number of cultures including the Romans, Moors, Greeks, Turks and British, but there are remains of civilizations on Menorca that predate all these. There are hundreds of stone monuments, known as 'navetas', scattered across Menorca, so most luxury villas will have one nearby. They are prehistoric structures, and the purpose of them remains a mystery. The biggest and most intact of these are located on the outskirts of Ciutadella, at Naveta des Tudons.
The former capital of Ciutadella is only half an hour away from Cala Galdana. Ciutadella de Menorca is a beautiful old town most famous for its summer festival in honour of Sant Joan, which takes place towards the end of June. It marks the beginning of the fiesta season on the island, when people in their thousands pour out from their villas across Menorca, to dance, sing, parade and enjoy the spectacle of horse riding trials.
Son Bou
This is a popular location in Menorca for family villa holidays. With an enviable stretch of sand and an abundance of activities to keep visitors entertained. Son Bou has the longest beach in Menorca, (3 km) with a promenade running along its spine. This is one of the more vibrant and busy locations, with plenty of bars and a selection of water sports to enjoy.
Punta Prima
Punta Prima is a resort in the south east corner of Menorca. The luxury villas here benefit from having Punta Prima's many bars and restaurants nearby and access to the pretty beach.
The capital city of Menorca, Mahon, is only a little way up the coast. When the British Navy claimed the island as their own in the 1700s, Mahon was made capital and the harbour underwent a process of fortification. The ramparts that line the harbour now make a pleasant venue for a stroll, as you take in the town's atmosphere, and look down upon the pleasure yachts that are moored here. For a lovely meal during your Menorca villa holidays, try one of the restaurants on the waterfront.
Beyond Mahon, but still less than twenty miles from Punta Prima, is the nature reserve of S'Albufera des Grau. It is home to countless species of trees, flowers, birds and lizards. If you enjoy the calming influence of nature, this is worth a visit during your Menorca villa holidays.
Lucie Evans is a Mediterranean specialist at Villa Select, a specialist operator with the finest selection of exclusive luxury villas Menorca can offer. With luxury villas in other Mediterranean locations, our knowledgeable staff can help you find your dream villa holiday.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lucie_Evans

Five Interesting Facts on Menorca

2009-11-30T23:02:00.000Z

Mayonnaise was invented in Menorca
Although widely disputed by the French, mayonnaise was first created on the island of Menorca, where it was originally known as Salsa Mahonesa. The sauce was brought over to France by Louis-Francois-Armand Du Plessis du Richard after he defeated the British at the port of Mahon. Although the French may not have invented mayonnaise, they can at least claim credit for perfecting the recipe, with the addition of vegetable oil. Menorcan Soldiers Were Once Paid in Women and Wine The Balearic Slingers of Menorca were a formidable bunch and during the Punic wars between Rome and Carthage, the Carthaginians employed the services of the slingers to fight for them. The slingers agreed but asked to paid for their services in wine and women. It was really no wonder then that Rome went on to win the wars and emerge as the dominant power in the Mediterranean. Whilst on your holiday in Menorca you'll find that the locals now accept payment for their services in the form of Euros. The King of Spain Regularly Visits Menorca Just For Dinner Spiny lobster is the island's speciality and the famous Calderata de Langosta simply must be sampled on your Menorcan Holiday. The dish even gets the Royal thumbs up and it's a well known fact that the King sometimes travel to the island of Menorca just for dinner. The crustacean is mainly found on the north shore of Menorca and is most popular on the resort of Fornells. King Carlos Juan favours the traditional restaurant Es Plas with its breathtaking harbour views and if you fancy the Royal treatment on your holiday to Menorca then the restaurant is well worth a visit.
Menorca has more beaches than Mallorca and Ibiza Put Together
Menorca has 120 beaches in total and the largest of these is Son Bou stretching 3km. With over 220km of beaches it's no wonder that holidays in Menorca are so popular with the family market. In comparison, Mallorca has 70 beaches and Ibiza has 60. Not all of Menorca's beaches are accessible by car and destinations like Cala Pregonda, which is a 20 minute walk from Binimella, are well worth the extra effort. The British Introduced Gin to the Island If you're a fan of gin then the Xouriger distillery is a must visit on your Menorcan holiday. The gin is distilled the traditional British way; a remnant from the 18th century when the British Navy introduced gin to the island.
However, due to the differing climates the gin is unlike British gin and is closely related to the Dutch version, with a very earthy herb flavour. The exact recipe is a closely guarded secret known only by the heirs of the Xouriger family. Try it the Mediterranean way on your holiday in Menorca served with sugary sweet lemonade, in a cocktail known as a pomada.
Brenda Jaaback is the Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you a choice of hand picked Menorca villas, resorts and retreats in prime locations for all your family holiday needs.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brenda_Jaaback

Five of the Finest Menorca Beaches by Brenda Jaaback

2009-02-26T12:27:00.001Z

Menorca is famed as one of the most relaxing holiday destinations in Europe. Less touristic than Mallorca or the Costas, it offers a traditional island culture, relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural attractions. There are numerous outstanding hotels, apartments and villas in Menorca and there's plenty to see and do on the island, from the horse show in Cala Galdana to the panoramic sights from the summit of Mount Toro. But without a doubt the biggest attraction for a holiday in Menorca is going to be the beaches.
The island has more beaches than Ibiza and Mallorca put together, ranging from long, bustling beaches to peaceful little coves. Whether you want to enjoy fully developed beaches close to the hotels and villas of Menorca or secluded stretches of sand where you can swim and sunbathe in peace and quiet, you are sure to find a beach here that is perfect for your needs. Here are five of the very best beaches on the island…
Cala Pregonda
Perhaps the finest secluded beach on the island, this stunning bay features crystal clear water and is backed by tamarisk and pine woods. It is unspoilt, with a few nearby Menorca villas the only local buildings. It is hard to get to, a twenty minute walk from Binimella, but the effort is well worth it.
Punta Prima
Located in the far south east of the island, this beach is a long, attractive stretch of sand that is well populated with bars and restaurants. The strong currents mean that it is sometimes not safe for swimming, but the beautiful sand and stunning vistas more than make up for it. Parents should supervise their children at all times due to the strong waters.
Cala Santa Galdana
Cala Galdana is one of the best beaches on the island, combining plenty of facilities with a beautiful and unspoilt beach. This horseshoe bay is the most photographed beach on the island, and it is especially good for those on a family holiday in Menorca due to its safe shallow waters. But adults will delight in the natural beauty that surrounds Cala Galdana.
Son Bou
Son Bou is the longest beach in Menorca, a glorious 3 km piece of sand that has plenty of bars and watersports facilities to keep visitors entertained. It is big and usually packed solid, so it isn't the place to go for privacy, but it is one of the finest large beaches on the island. Make sure you check the flags on the beach before you swim, as the currents can be strong.
Es Grau
Located close to Mahon, the capital of the island, Es Grau is one of the most naturally beautiful beaches on the island. The shallow waters in this horseshoe shaped bay are great for family bathing, and just behind the beach is the wetland park of Albufeira, a stunning national park filled with wildlife and fauna.
Whether you want to stay in a resort hotel or a secluded rural villa in Menorca, or are there for a family holiday or a romantic getaway, you are sure to find a nearby Menorca beach that is perfect for your needs!
About the Author
Brenda Jaaback is the ¬Managing Director of Bartle Holidays. They can provide you a choice of hand picked Menorca villas, resorts and retreats in prime locations for all your family holiday needs.

Laid back Kefalonia

2009-01-29T15:49:00.000Z

Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and regarded by many as the most beautiful. Kefalonia is an ideal destination for sun worshipers looking for fantastic beaches surrounded by beautiful scenery with a relaxed, laid back atmosphere.
Resorts and Beaches

Holidays to Kefalonia are all about stress free relaxation in beautiful surroundings. The biggest resort on the island is Lassi with its broad soft sand beaches and crystal clear waters. Lassi is within easy reach of the capital Argostoli with its bustling port. Here you will find late night shopping and plenty of cafe bars and restaurants lining the main square, where the children congregrate to play in the evenings whilst their parents sit at the pavement cafes.
Head South of the capital to find the village of Lourdas an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful holiday mixing coast and countryside. Lourdas Bay is one of the largest on the island and although a small resort offers superb beaches, restaurants and tavernas. On the islands Southern most tip you will discover Skala the most renowned beach resort with miles of sand and shingle stretching towards the port of Poros.
On the beach you can opt for the stretches of busy sun beds, snack bars and watersports or find your own secluded spot. Skala is an ideal resort for couples and families. The town of Lixouri is the 2nd largest on the island, here you will find the Lepada beach with its red coloured sand and the cave and old monastery of Aghia Paraskevi.

History and Culture
There’s an abundance of history and culture just waiting to be explored in Kefalonia. Choose from countless Churches and Monastries across the island to places of Archaeological interest including the recently discovered roman theatre and tomb in Fiscardo. A must is a visit to the castle of Assos the largest of the two castles on the island.
Activities
Holidays in Kefalonia are all about peaceful relaxation, nightlife on the island mostly revolves around dinner in the evening followed by a stroll and a drink in one of the local tavernas. A livelier nighlife can be found in and around the capital of Argostoli but not to the degree of some of its Greek Island neighbours.
The island is easy to explore by car with its good road network but it’s also great for walking, cycling and horse riding. A visit to the Kefalonia Caves where multi coloured stalactites and stalagnites fill the caverns is well worth the trip

Croatia - A Mediterranean Jewel For Active Holidays

2009-01-15T23:48:00.000Z

The Croatian National Tourist Office is reporting that many visitors are now choosing the country for a really authentic Mediterranean experience on the fine Adriatic Coast. These visitors are also discovering the medieval hilltop villages in the country's Istria region, and the green hinterland of Dalmatia as well as the country's established National Parks. Everywhere, the country offers a variety of holiday ideas for those looking for a beach, but also want to be active on holiday. Here are a few of the highlights of a holiday in Croatia.
A popular option for visitors who want an all-round introduction to the culture of the country, is a two-centre holiday starting in the capital Zagreb. Zagreb is a great cultural centre with a fine mix of museums, theatres, shops and parkland, and with less than 2 hours flying time from southern UK airports, is a popular arrival point.
A few days here can be combined with a longer stay at the well-known Kvarner Riviera, but also for example at the upcoming north-eastern region of Slavonia which has the Kopa ki Rit nature reserve (ideal bird-watching territory) and acres of wine-producing landscape where excellent local wines match heartily with local cuisine. Exciting to see also are the Lipizzaner horses of Djakovo.
For hikers and cyclists, the mountains of Gorski Kotar in the north offer great opportunities. Europe's last great mammal - the brown bear - can be seen here. Also in this region are the islands of Losinj, Krk, Rab and Cres where the rare griffon vulture flies in beautiful unspoilt scenes.
The Dalmatian coast is probably the best-known area of Croatia, but now for UK visitors, new direct flights to Zodar mean that the northern areas of the Dalmatian coast are more accessible, including the amazing Kornati archipelago which is a National Park with all amenities, and is a gateway to five of Coatia's eight such parks.
Many special interest operators are now offering new inland programmes, including food and wine tours, bird watching trips as well as historical and cultural tours to all such regions.
With new motorways completed, and with regular year-round flights from Gatwick and Heathrow to Zagreb by Croatia Airlines amongst others, those with a few days to spare and an independent spirit can easily hire a car and be in Croatia's Kvarner Riviera resorts less than 2 hours from landing. Indeed hiring a car and enjoying a leisurely, independent view of Croatia's varied landscapes is a choice which is growing in acceptance as the country opens up once again to its new waves of visitors.
Meantime, as Croatia is outside the Eurozone, UK holidaymakers are likely to find excellent self-catering deals, and excellent value in restaurants and bars, where spending-money goes a lot further than in Eurozone Mediterranean areas.
Penny Church writes for several Travel Companies in the UK, including Airport parking specialist http://www.airport-parking-offers.com/ who offer a wide variety of airport parking and hotel arrangements for UK travellers.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Church

Cheap Holidays to the Greece - Where to Go and What to Do

2008-12-31T12:25:00.000Z

Spending Holidays in Greece is undoubtedly an exciting idea. Greece is a historical city situated in South East Europe, and is an exciting destination to spend your holiday season. One can visit several places, and can enjoy the climate and weather by just sitting back and relaxing in one of the many hotels in Greece.
There are numerous cheap deals offered by hotels in Greece, and you really have a wide range of options of selecting the hotel that best suits you. You can spend your time relaxing on the beaches, and at the same time enjoying the best sights. Greece experiences three entirely different weather systems due to its geographical settings.
The Mediterranean climate, however, is best for those who want to tan up their complexion. Apart from that, you can really enjoy the Alpine climate, and the Pindus mountain range while on a holiday in Greece. You can also visit the ancient and historical places in Greece, and can admire the buildings which portray the architectural background and history of the place. Greece has a number of temples build in marble which are worth seeing and are a great attraction for visitors from all over the world.
Greece has a lot to offer besides just a relaxing holiday on one of its beaches. The place is highly exploratory, and you can spend your holiday in great luxury and adventure without having to feel bored for even a single moment.
Greece is a popular holiday destination among Europeans and may other holiday makers all over the world. With a lot to offer, this place demands beforehand planning in order that you don't miss out a single adventures stuff once you are actually there.
The enticing and captivating culture, historical architecture and background, and catchy landscape attracts a large number of tourists and visitors from all over the world to visit Greece. Moreover, Greece offers the best holiday packages and fun stuff you could hardly resist. The enchantment of natural beauty and the romantic aura of the place attract many nature lovers and newly wedded couples respectively, to this place every year. The place is full of rocky coasts, golden beaches, attractive waterfalls, caves, rivers, and a collection of rare bird species.
Places like Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, and Mikonos must not be missed out at any cost once you are for a holiday in Greece. Architectural attractions like The Acropolis of Athens, Medieval city of Rhodes, the Monasteries of Dephni are a must visit when in Greece for a holiday. Greece is simply full of great historical, cultural, and architectural attractions.
You must also not forget to visit Monastery complex of Aghio Oros, monastery of Aghios Ioannis Theologos and the Cave of the Apocalypse, Pythagoreio and Heraion, Monastery complex of Meteora, The Temple of Epicurean Apollo, Mystras, Delphi and Early Christian, and Byzantine Thessalonica when you are in Greece.
All in all, Greece is an exciting and fun filled place to visit on a holiday season.
For cheap holidays, try this site which is really easy to use.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_M_Freeman

Menorca is the Place to Be

2008-12-23T11:09:00.000Z

Once you take your first look at the tropical palms casting forgiving shade on these golden, soft sand beaches, and realise there are an abundance of these picture perfect beaches available to you and your family, Menorca will have you captivated. As well as the scenic beaches Menorca boasts a well established holiday location with the tourist in mind, that has not turned into a cheesy beachside resort.
The restaurants and cafes are high quality and not highly expensive, the outside activities range from snorkelling to pirate themed cruises and the family friendly atmosphere all over the island makes this the perfect place to bring your family for a summer holiday in the sunshine.
The majority of hotels or holiday rentals will have facilities suitable for babies and young children up to teens so your kids can occupy themselves while you have a well earned rest on that sun bed or catch up with the novel you've been meaning to read.
If you and your family enjoy having some well earned fun while you're on holiday you can take advantage of the many water parks, marine zoos and beaches that are spread across the island. If you're after an afternoon of relaxation, why not take a trip on a boat and have lunch on the deck? Perhaps a walk around a white washed traditional village is more to your liking, as you take in the dusty landscape that falls below your feet.
Menorca manages to maintain its "isolated" feel while at the same time being very accessible. You won't have to go far to find a modern supermarket for that specific brand of soda or a doctors surgery in an emergency. You'll also be able to rely on a traditional butchers and green grocers if you prefer it.
When it comes to finding a destination that will cater for almost any family, Menorca is a winner. If you're still not convinced, just look up some other reviews!
For sun dazzling holidays on this serene island, explore for cheap holidays on offer. Last minute holidays are abundant in supply at this time of year, so take benefit!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Quirk

Thinking of a Holiday in Greece? 10 Reasons to Visit Soon

2008-12-12T14:37:00.001Z

Greece is a country where no-one is in a hurry and the sun warms you from early in the morning to the glorious sunset. It's a place to enjoy freshly caught fish and local wine by the water's edge, as the local Orthodox priest chats with villagers while cats rub against your legs looking for tit-bits. My Greece is also one of the most stimulating countries on the planet.
Greece was the cradle of Western civilisation, and as if that isn't enough reason on its own to visit, here are 10 other good reasons to make a trip to Greece soon. Beaches: With dozens of inhabited islands and plenty of choice on the mainland too, you're never far from an inviting stretch of sand or shingle lapped by the warm Ionian or Aegean seas. Resorts come in all shapes and sizes so there's bound to be one or many to suit you. Nightlife: From cosmopolitan Athens to the larger resorts which really get into the swing in July and August, there's plenty of choice. Whether you want the full-on sounds of Malia in Crete or just want to practise a Zorba the Greek dance with someone you've just met, it's here and happening. Food: Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of Greek cuisine, including fish, lamb, pork and of course Greek salad with feta cheese and olives, and dips such as tsatsiki. More sophisticated restaurants have sprung up in larger resorts and cities. Wine: The most distinctive is the resin-flavoured white wine retsina, but if that's not to your taste discover easy tippling table wines from all over the country. Fine wines come from regions such as the island of Santorini, from grapes grown in lava fields. Archaeology: Ancient Greece was one of the greatest civilisations, and you can visit wonderful ruins in Athens, Delphi, Olympia, the Peloponnese peninsula, Crete and many other places. Cities: Athens is not only an ancient wonder but a vibrant modern metropolis, transformed before hosting the 2004 Olympic Games. Also check out Thessaloniki in northern Greece, a fascinating mix of influences close to the beaches of Halkidiki. Nature: Much of the mainland is covered by pine forests, and mountains such as Mount Olympus. The spectacular gorges of the north-west are not to be missed. Island hopping: One of the delights of Greece is to land somewhere and simply take off, using the dense network of inter-island ferries and hydrofoils. Discover small islands you've never heard of. Shopping: Don't forget something from the wide range of handicrafts, plus local herbs and honey. Touring: The mainland is a treasure trove of history, landscapes and good times, with the main touring routes being the Peloponnese and north-west. Crete is also worth discovering in depth. A holiday in Greece will leave you with only one thought - when and how soon to come back for more.
Penny Church, writes for the map-based holiday destination and flight finder Travelwhere. With Travelwhere, you can find cheap flights to Greece along with a wealth of additional information - including the brochures of specialist tour operators to Greece.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Penny_Church

Holidays in Majorca - Featuring Calla Bona and Calla Millor

2008-11-22T15:57:00.000Z

Majorca is the largest island of the Balearic Islands, a group of islands that are part of Spain and situated in the Mediterranean. Majorca's history as a popular holiday destination dates back to the 1960's when the package tour industry was born.
Young and vibrant south coast
The older resorts are to be found on Majorca's south coast and tend to be the ones that attract groups of young singles looking for a vibrant nightlife. Some are particularly popular with a certain type of young British holidaymakers whose rowdy behaviour has earned them the name "Lager Louts"
Scenic and sophisticated north and east coast resorts
On Majorca's beautiful north coast, things are very different. Here the resorts are generally more sophisticated, much quieter and attractive to older, more cultured holidaymakers. These resorts can provide some feeling of what Majorca was like before the days of mass tourism and still attract people who want to experienced traditional Spanish / Majorcan culture amidst beautiful, unspoilt scenery.
Most of Majorca's east coast resorts will also suit the tastes of the more sophisticated tourist. Less rugged than the mountainous north, the east coast is a series of pretty coves and creeks. The bays in which many of the resorts are found are called "Calas". Some retain a little their original fishing village look but most have long since developed into purpose built vacation urbanizacions (a Spanish word meaning a group of accommodations sharing common facilities.) Cala Bona is an example of a quiet resort that has retained some of its original style, whilst neighbouring, Cala Millor is an example of the tailor-made, modern holiday village type. The bay of Cala Millor is bigger than most others and the resort's sandy beach is over six kilometre long. Many people consider this beach to be one of the best on the island and two high, headlands shelter it, keeping its waters calm and clear. This, combined with gently sloping sands makes the resort ideal for swimming, water-skiing and snorkelling. Further out in the bay, however there is usually sufficient wind to create good windsurfing conditions.
Majorca's weather with tips about when to visit.
Majorca enjoys a Mediterranean climate of hot summers and warm winters but unlike many areas of mainland Spain, unpleasantly hot conditions are extremely rare occurrences. There is nearly always a breeze and even at the height of summer, a sunny day is still a most enjoyable one to experience. Majorca is however very mountainous in the north and the mountains pull in any wet weather that is around. The Balearic islands are generally wetter than mainland, Mediterranean, Spain; with late August and early June experiencing more rainy days than the resorts of the Spanish Costas. If you want to have a virtual guarantee of hot, dry weather for your holiday in Majorca, probably the best time to visit is between late June and the middle of August.
Majorca holiday accommodation tips.
The young person looking for lively nightlife on Majorca's south coast will probably find a hotel offering all inclusive, full or half board deals in resorts such as Arenal, Magaluf or Palma Nova, most suitable for their requirements.
The resorts of the north and east coasts are far less hotel dominated and self catering accommodations in the form of apartments or villas are the most popular. For holidaymakers who like a hotel atmosphere combined with the freedom of a self catering holiday, aparthotels exist in most major resorts. Both Cala Bona and Cala Millor accommodations are advertised on many websites. Villas and apartments can be booked online and rented from private owners as well as several large holiday companies. Aparthotels can also be booked online mainly with the larger companies or their agents.
Tips for Travelling to Majorca.
One of the main attractions of Majorca as a holiday destination is that it is only a short flying time from the UK with many cheap flights available from practically every UK airport. The best travel tip is to use the Internet to make flight price comparisons and to book online with a budget airline such as EasyJet or RyanAir.
From the USA or Canada, it is a good idea to include Majorca as part of a European vacation, perhaps flying to London, Paris, Barcelona or Rome and then taking a budget flight to Majorca to enjoy the "Sunshine, sea and Beach" part of your holiday.
Look before you book.
Majorca is the biggest of the Balearic Islands and has something for everyone. Despite its somewhat tarnished image, caused by the distasteful excesses of mass tourism experienced in some south coast resorts, the island is still one to be much recommended as a holiday destination. To get the best out of a vacation there, you need to choose your resort with care by researching travel tip websites that feature articles about Majorca before booking your accommodation.
The author is a travel article writer and co-owner of the best-travel-tip website, which aims to provide travel tips and information about possible holiday vacation destinations worldwide
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Stewart_Palmer

Corsica - Your Perfect Holiday Island in the Med

2008-11-22T15:54:00.000Z

Corsica is known as the Mediterranean's mountain island. Corsica breaks through the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea just southeast of mainland France.
The island enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with summers being hot and dry, and remaining mild even in winter, at least at coastal level. The mountains are a little cooler all year round.
Corsica is 8,722 square kilometres in area, and is the third largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily and Sardinia. It measures 183 kilometres in length and 85 km in width.
Corsica is closer to the Italian continent than the French continent (170 km) only 12 km separate it from Sardinia. Corsica's geography is most becoming with a large variety of landscapes, made up of over 20 mountains, numerous rivers, sandy white beaches, and rocky cliffs.
Corsica is almost the perfect holiday destination, basking in the Mediterranean sunshine off the south of France. With its perfect beaches, magnificent mountain scenery, fine towns and villages that simply belong in the surrounding landscape, and of course the climate. The hundreds of beaches and 1,000 kilometre of coastline form the basis of many holidays on the island, with swimming, snorkeling, wind-surfing, scuba diving and sunbathing being the most popular activities.
The wealth of tourist interest in this island is indisputably its natural heritage. Corsica has literally hundreds of beaches, probably the best in France and several among the best to be found anywhere.
Corsica is nothing like the image we have of a Mediterranean island. In fact, no other Mediterranean island has Corsica's lushness. With its conservation areas and nature reserves which have been given national recognition or registered on Unesco's world heritage list, its International marine reserve, and its Regional Nature Reserve which stretches from one side to the other of its mountain range, from Calvi to Porto-Vecchio, Corsica remains for the most part a protected island.
Corsica has three distinct geographical regions, Western Corsica, Eastern Corsica and Cap Corsica. The island has a long history, rich and complicated, influenced by both the Ancient Greeks and Romans. Corsica was also the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Part of France, yet highly influenced by Italy, its inhabitants are Corsicans first. The Corsican language is spoken by more than 70% of the population despite the fact that it was suppressed by the III Republic, and almost wiped out by television and the modern world. Corsican is a rich language, and has been taught in schools and at the university since the government granted it in 1974 the statute of a regional language. The accent is difficult to define, derived from medieval Tuscan crossed with Pisan and Genoese, the language spoken today is drawn on French.
The island has a lively culture, which is the product of centuries of customs maintained by the island's soul, and is richly expressed in its voices, music and crafts. The village fair, a showcase for the Corsican way of life, with its winemaking tradition going back to antiquity and its gastronomy full of local flavors, is just one way of discovering and learning to love Corsica. At night when you hear the "paghjelle", the traditional three-voice style of singing, it is the proud, fiery Corsican soul that you are hearing in song.
Gastronomy plays a central role in Corsican life. You can dine on , aTry the delicious lean ham from half-wild pigs fed on acorns and chestnuts called Prisuttu, or Figatelli which is a liver sausage. Chestnut pulenta will go nicely with your wild boar stew. Corsica is famous for its cheeses, such as the goat cheese and the broccoli, made from ewe's milk. At the seaside, you can enjoy lobster, fish and aziminu, the Corsican bouillabaisse.
Eight AOC wines give you a choice of rich, flavorful vintages. Feel free to stop in at the wine cellars. The Corsican wine producers will be delighted to let you taste their products. "A saluta!"
The Corsican towns are very attractive (and very popular with visitors), as are walks in the mountains, and other outdoor activities based around both the mountains and the coast. The lively city of Ajaccio pays tribute to one of its most famous citizens, Napoleon Bonaparte, at the National Museum of the Bonaparte House. Nearby, Napoleon's uncle, Fesch, built the Fesch Museum, made up of many Italian artists' paintings. Dazzlingly white, Bonifacio is a fortified town built atop limestone cliffs. From Bonifacio, scuba divers can take a ferry to Iles Levezzi to view its fantastic reefs, and the transportation hub of Bastia is a good base for scouting out Cap Corse, a peninsula with varied terrain and an abundance of historic interest such as dilapidated chapels and towers.
The Natural Regional Park of Corse (Corsica) has been set-up to protect part of the rare and unusual habitats found on the island. The park includes some of the highest mountain peaks on the island, and much beauty. The Scandola Nature reserve is also stunning, but only accessible by boat.
Find out how to get to Corsica, where to stay and how to get around at http://www.travel-tastic.net
Bill Bailey is a freelance travel writer and professional traveler. Bill's website contains more articles, tips and advice http://www.travel-tastic.net
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Cyprus Holidays The Ones You Won't Forget

2008-11-22T15:50:00.000Z

With so many exotic locations around the world to take your holidays why choose Cyprus? For the thousands of couples and families that return there year on year the answer is simple. Cyprus really does feel like home from home because it offers everything anyone could ever want from a holiday including a glorious Mediterranean climate whilst also being so British. The Cypriots speak excellent English and it's even taught as a second language in the schools as early as primary level. The signs including road signs are in English as well as Greek and they drive on the left too. Until you have visited this beautiful Island paradise you will have to take my word for it that the Cypriots are probably the friendliest people you will ever meet.
This quintessential Englishness is the result of the British occupation of Cyprus up until the early 60's after which time the island gained it's own sovereignty whilst retaining the British legal system along with a modern infrastructure and many other strong western European influences. When you take your holidays in Cyprus though you will also be struck by the countries own unique culture which has flourished despite all those years of British rule. On the whole Cyprus has most of her roots in a strong Greek culture and the majority of Cypriots are in fact Greek by decent. This mix of cultural influences is undoubtedly the key to the uniqueness of Cyprus and the Cypriot people has a whole.
With some of the most glorious weather in the whole of the Mediterranean Cyprus holidays are sure to satisfy the most ardent of sun worshipers. They will find more than enough sandy beaches and secluded bays at which to indulge their tanning rituals to their hearts content. The Mediterranean Ocean is warm from May to October making it perfect for bathing or water sports of all kinds and there is no shortage of facilities on all the resorts. Paracending, wind surfing and powerboat hire are just a few of the great pastimes you could try during your Cyprus holidays. Then again maybe you prefer to get out and about to see what this beautiful Island has to offer in terms of culture and history.
Culture vultures will love Cyprus holidays not least for her rich cultural history that stretches back thousands of years. Not all the visitors to this beautiful Island paradise have come in search of the best sun bathing spots or to take a dip in her clear blue waters. Over the centuries many invaders have claimed Cyprus for themselves and tried to force their customs and cultures onto her people. If you love history and places of historical interest why not use part of your Cyprus holidays to see more of the Island by booking on some of the many organized tours. In fact if you want to reach some of the more remote areas that are inaccessible by coach there are several jeep safaris that operate from most of the major holiday resorts too.
However you choose to spend your Cyprus holidays there is a good chance that once you have visited this beautiful Island she will lure you back to her sunny shores time and again. In fact many people have so fallen in love with her (us included) that they have purchased apartments or villas in Cyprus to share with their families and friends. Perhaps once you have discovered the joys of Cyprus for yourself you will begin to understand why they want to own a home on the Island. A Cyprus holiday home will give them and their families years of carefree holidays in the sun and makes great investment for the future too. Maybe we will see you on the Island some time soon enjoying your own Cyprus holidays.
Kevin Moore loves Cyprus so much that he spends half the year there writing regular articles about all things Cyprus including Cyprus property purchase. To learn more look here Cyprus Holidays
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