NetTravel Quest

Rhodes - Island of the Sun God Helios

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Tue, 12 Jul 2016 17:55:00 +0000

Rhodes sunset - Credit: Romtomtom

In the ancient world, Rhodes was seen as the island of the Sun God Helios, who crossed the firmament with his team every day. The bronze statue, the “Colossus of Rhodes”, was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient world. Today, Rhodes with its 2000-year history is a fascinating mix of beaches, nature and testimonials.

Rhodes City (Rhodes)

A walk through the old town of Rhodes is at the same time a ramble through the thousands of years of history of the city - from the Archaeological Museum with its ancient statues, graves and ceramics, you can go down Street of Knights to the Palace of the Knights dating from the Middle Ages which has not suffered any damage to the present day. Not far away you will find modern boutiques, bars and cafés which invite you to pass away the time and take a stroll.

The formidable city walls from the 15th Century are an impressive sight. You can walk along part of them to enjoy a wonderful view of Rhodes old town. The Turkish quarter with its oriental mosques, in which time seems to have stood still, is also worth seeing. In the tangle of small alleyways you will stumble again and again across quaint nooks and crannies, but the old town is at its most beautiful in the early evening when the dwindling sunlight lights up the streets of houses dating from the Middle Ages in gold.

Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes)

Butterfly Valley is a narrow, lush forested valley through which a beck runs - this idyll is ideal for walking and taking a picnic. At its upper end there is an 18th-Century monastery which is worth a brief visit.

Those visiting the valley, however, generally have other reasons. The “Valley of the Butterflies” is not so-called for no reason - thousands and thousands of rare harlequin butterflies with their red and black wings live here. It is, however, not always possible to see them. You will mainly come across them in the summer months between June and August - in late summer they lay eggs, in April the caterpillars hatch which transform in June and spend the summer in the valley. Why this species of butterfly has come to settle in this area of Rhodes can be explained by a botanical particularity - amber trees, whose aromatic resin attracts the harlequin butterflies and on the bark of which they feed, only grow in this area of the country.

The Lindos Acropolis

Historical: Lindos was built by the Dorians in about the twelfth century B.C. Rhodes sent nine ships to help out in the Greco-Trojan War and these were probably from Lindos. Lindos became the centre of maritime trade in the area and was very prosperous.

Lindos
A stay in Lindos in undoubtedly one of the high points of a trip to Rhodes. The fact that this settlement has been constantly inhabited since the ancient world is unsurprising when you consider the scenic position of the village between the hills and the sea. The whitewashed houses form an arch around the hill, which is crowned by the Acropolis surrounded by an enormous wall from the Middle Ages which can be seen from the village.

On the way to the Acropolis, you may easily get lost in the maze of alleyways and in many places stumble across well maintained silicic mosaic floors with splendid patterns. The so-called captain houses from the 18th Century, which are decorated with complex façades, are famous. At the excavated site at the highest point of the Acropolis you will find the Temple of Athena Lindia, which was meant to replace the old wooden temple and which was constructed in the 6th Century BC under the rule of Kleoboulos. Here, you can walk over the terraces, pass by an Exedra from the 3rd Century BC, through an impressive portico and the gateway which forms the entrance to the holy temple area.

Thari Monastery (Moni Thari)

The Thari Monastery, a Byzantine gem, lies south of Laerma in the middle of the island. It is run by a few monks who have their own radio and TV programs. It was empty until well into the 1980s when Abbot Amfilodios first gave it a new lease of life. The monastery goes back to the 13th Century and was built on the site of an even older building.

The basic legend says that a Byzantine princess from Constantinople suffered from an incurable illness and almost died alone in the woods of Rhodes. The mild climate and the bubbling springs in the area cured her and she founded a monastery to show her thanks. She determined the site for this by throwing her ring - the monastery was to be built where her ring was found. The church is worth a visit due to its frescoes with scenes from the Old and New Testament, which mainly originate from the 16th and 17th Century, although some date back to the early 14th Century.

Ancient Kamiros
Kamiros The ancient pottery town is admittedly one of the less important ancient sites on Rhodes, but is nevertheless worth a visit. The picturesque Kamiros, nestled between green hills not far from the western coast of the island, is the smallest of the three ancient sites of Rhodes but lost its importance after the merger in 408 BC of the separate site with the capital Rhodes City.

Kamiros is a homogenous Hellenistic settlement whose inhabitants were farmers and craftsmen, often potters which gave Kamrios its far-reaching reputation as a pottery town. Ceramics from Kamiros were exported nearly everywhere in the world known at the time. The architectural uniformity of the town is due to the fact that the entire town was completely rebuilt shortly after a serious earthquake in 226 BC which flattened out the town. It was finally abandoned after another earthquake in 142 BC, after which the population lost their destroyed town.

Ataviros

At 1,215m, Ataviros is the highest mountain in Rhodes. The ascent is extremely hard and you should allow approximately 7 hours to get there and back and make sure that you have good footwear with you. It is best to start the walk from the tiny village of Embona. The otherwise sparse mountain is covered in spring by a gory sea of white and blue sage, light-blue anemones and pink rockroses - a sight to sweeten the tiring walk. If you can reach the summit, the breathtaking view of the island and the sea is worth it.

Here you can also see the scant remains of a Zeus Sanctuary from Mycenaean times. A gruesome legend surrounds this - the altar is said to have been designed in the form of a bronze bull in which people were locked away. Then a fire was started and those inside died a painful death. The priests of the sanctuary interpreted the screams and cries for help of those sacrificed as an oracle. Even today inhabitants of the village tell this story at the foot of the mountain.

Epta Piges

The “Seven Springs” are a waterfall which is formed from the meeting of several springs to irrigate the Kolymbia plain. Here you will find a tavern which will tempt you to while away long periods of time with its tables under the shade of donated sycamores and numerous peafowls which form a tryst.

Epta Piges is a popular place for the residents of Rhodes, who like to bring picnics here, particularly in the summer months. It is pleasantly cool here even in the height of summer thanks to the water and close-by pine forests. It is hardly surprising that legends claim this place was a favourite with nymphs. A 150m long water tunnel links the beck to a lake. Only the courageous should take this route to the lake, since the tunnel is pitch black. For those less adventurous there is also an overground route, but it is slightly longer. Fans of rare plants will also appreciate this area, as light-blue mandrakes, for example, grow here which have a human-like figure and are said to have had magical powers in the Middle Ages.

Embona

Embona is one of Rhodes' largest mountain villages and is the wine capital of the island. At the entrance to the village you will find the Emery winery, which produces excellent wines and can also be visited on weekdays - with wine tasting included, of course! Its fame is due to the Athiri grape, which thrives wonderfully on the small terraces on the western slopes of Ataviros and has been cultivated since ancient times. Attempts to cultivate this type of grape outside Rhodes have always failed.

Due to its famous wine, the village has been taken over by mass tourism. Not a day goes by without the arrival of coaches of tourists. Many of the local taverns offer Greek evenings with folklore dance shows. Those wishing to have a slightly quieter visit to Embona should take a short walk to the quieter and more traditional part of the village where you can buy rugs and weaved goods which are made in nearly every house in Embona.

About The Author: Nikki McCowan is an online Brand Manager and owner of http://www.lastminutetraveluk.co.uk Last Minute Travel UK is one of the largest affiliate based holiday websites, serving hundreds of customers each month.

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Common Mistakes When Booking a Vacation Rental

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 19:17:00 +0000

By Kent J Thompson

Vacation rentals such as condos and villas are increasingly popular choices of holiday accommodation around the world, for many reasons including having an increased level of privacy and saving money compared to premium hotels. However, finding the right accommodation is not so easy, especially as there is an every growing range of choice to select your villa or condo from.

One of the first common mistakes that people make when investing in a vacation rental is trying to go as cheap as possible when booking their villa or their condo. This is understandable, as one of the main motivations for people choosing this type of accommodation is the appeal of the great savings that can be made when compared to staying at a hotel.

However, cheap does not always mean the best, and this is especially true seeing that there are now a growing number of agencies and vacation rental companies offering their services, some which will not be as professional as others. Therefore, it is important to look at the services provided, the cleanliness and the location of the accommodation instead of just an attractive price tag.

Instead, make a list of the qualities and services that you need in your condo or villa, and after finding several which fit your essential criteria, then have a look to see which one of your selected options is most appealing to you price-wise.

The next common error that people make when booking vacation accommodation is not taking advantage of seasonal and promotional deals offered by agencies and companies advertising their villas and condos. Certain times of the year will be harder to book for these companies, so it is not uncommon to find that there will be special deals to entice customers.

If you cannot find details of these offers on the website of the company or in their brochures, then it is advised to contact a member of the customer service or sales team to enquire, as this can result in discounts or advice on the best time of the year to book in regards to incentives offered by the agency.

The next mistake that many people make when booking is not thoroughly checking the terms of service when making their reservation. This includes whether other charges will be added to the total price, what equipment and other comforts are provided as part of the accommodation package and the responsibilities when it comes to cleaning and maintaining the property.

As many people are keen to make their booking as rapidly as possible to secure the ideal villa or condo, this is an easy mistake to make. However, this can result in costly charges or inconvenience and disappointment when the holidaymakers arrive abroad and find their accommodation is not quite what they expected.

For this reason, before you book through any website or accommodation agency, make sure that you are fully aware of what is included or not in your deal, and also make sure that you come to an agreement on the total price of your rental. This will make sure that you avoid any unpleasant surprises or major disappointments.

Lastly, a final error that is commonly made is being swayed by attractive photos of villas and condos online, without verifying whether or not these photos are recent or that the company or landlord maintains these to an excellent standard.

Many people who book a vacation rental are looking for a standard of luxury that will make sure that they enjoy an exceptional vacation, and therefore are willing spend a significant amount of money. To ensure that you get value for money, do not just rely on airbrushed website photos, instead asking for more recent images so that you know exactly what you will be getting.

Manuel Antonio Rental Properties is a Costa Rican vacation rental agency in Manuel Antonio, specializing in luxury rental homes, villas and condos with ocean views. Find out more at: http://www.ManuelAntonioRentalProperties.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Kent_J_Thompson/1981797

The Magic and Mystery of Halong Bay

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 08 Aug 2015 07:48:00 +0000

By K. Hancock

Halong, in northeast Vietnam, is one of the most scenically beautifully places on earth. It is no wonder that it has won so many accolades from significant organisations all over the planet.

UNESCO inscribed it onto their list of World Heritage Sites and it was chosen as one of the "Seven Wonders of Nature". CNN and Tatler also singled it out as one of the most important and beautiful holiday destinations. Something of Vietnam's secret until quite recently, it has been growing in popularity over the last decade. As Southeast Asia has opened up, more people are choosing a two or three center holiday, and Vietnam has been the big winner.

As the bay has grown in popularity, so has the preponderance of tour boat companies, operating within the area. In peak season nowadays, some 8000 people per day will be cruising round this six hundred square mile paradise, enjoying luxury surroundings and fine dining, whilst taking in the most breathtaking views imaginable. The luxury on board these vessels is outstanding. Beautifully decorated cabins, with en-suite facilities and private balconies, welcome cruise boat passengers to their floating hotels, every night.

The bay is an amazing example of nature's finest work. Two thousand limestone islands, known as karsts, pepper the entire bay, creating different vistas at every turn. Sitting on the top deck of a luxury cruise boat, after eating a superb dinner, sipping cocktails as the sun goes down, has to be one of life's finest experiences.

Some of the limestone islands are little more than inhabitable lumps of rock jutting skywards. Others, however, are complete islands with their own ecosystems and local populations.The rock formations throw up amazing geological wonders. The Sung Sot Cave for example is a much visited example. Translated as 'The Surprise Cave', it is to be found on Bo Hon Island. It is accessed by climbing high up on the hillside. This affords those passengers adventurous enough, with superb views around the bay, before they descend into the magic and mystery of the cave.

Enormous stalagmites and stalactites are found here, including one superb example of a column. There is a garden and a pond at the very heart of the cave. Here monkeys and birds come daily, in search of food.

As night falls on the bay, an air of complete mystery falls over it. Boats drop anchor and bob gently in the water as guests, enjoy drinks and get ready to retire for the evening. Many sit on deck, beneath a blanket of stars, enjoying the tranquility. It really is a magical experience in a truly magical place. After retiring they can drift of to sleep, as the boats sways gently in the waters of the bay. Sunrise brings yet another view and yet more beauty. As the daylight pushes the darkness aside, mists roll in and shroud the karsts in a mysterious grey covering.

This is a fabulous holiday destination at most times of the year. Each season has its merits, and avoiding the typhoon that come between July and August, is your only weather concern.

About the author: Keith Hancock is a singer / songwriter and writer who lives in Saigon, Vietnam. He has travelled all over the world, but in recent years has remained in Southeast Asia. It is a region he loves and of which he loves to write. Whilst writing on a variety of subjects, his experiences within Indochina are very much in demand from travel companies.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=K._Hancock

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Exotic Thailand - Tips and Customs

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 06:46:00 +0000

Credit: Floating market in Bangkok - CYeong

A friend of mine who is a photographer recently came back from a holiday in Bangkok and he has kindly given his blessing to use some of the pictures he took during his Thailand tour. They are some interesting shots of tourist spots that most visitors would not like to miss when they are in Thailand where most of the people are Buddhists.

Some of the wonderful pictures he took include the floating market in Bangkok which is a perennial favourite with a lot of foreign tourists. By the way, Bangkok with its many canals is also known as the "Venice of the East".

Credit: Kanchanaburi War Cemetery - CYeong

The Kanchanaburi War Cemetery and the famous Bridge on the Kwai River (remember this war movie?) are also interesting pictures which bring back nostalgic feelings, especially for those who have connections with the soldiers and others who lost their lives during the war.

If Thailand is going to be your next holiday destination, travel writer Christopher Snyder has some useful tips and customs for you to follow when you are rubbing shoulders with the gentle and friendly Thai folks.

Credit: Bridge on the River Kwai - CYeong

Credit: Elephant Ride - CYeong

Travel Tips and Customs in Thailand

By Christopher Snyder

After living in Bangkok for over a year I have learned many things about the Thai People that I wanted to share with other foreigners living or vacationing here should know.

The first thing you have to accept is that eastern culture is different. The people in the east are less emotional and more polite and while they know westerners are different, they often are uncomfortable when we stray from their norms.

The things I found to be important are listed below in order of importance:

1. Be Polite - Thai people hold being polite above all else. Their very language has politeness built into it. If you follow what is considered "common courtesy" you will be fine.

2. Thai King - The Thai People Love their King, King Rama IX. Never show any type of disrespect to him.

3. Be Quiet - Loud people are considered impolite. Speak softly and do not laugh loudly. Of course there are the common places such as bars that being loud is appropriate.

4. Watch where you walk - The side walks in Bangkok are uneven and full of obstacles, pay attention. Oh, the streets have many stray dogs; the dogs are not aggressive but do leave landmines on the sidewalks.

5. Taxi drivers (enough said) - Most taxi drivers are fine. Generally, it is always better to use the metered taxis. Tuktuks are always more expensive and with Bangkok traffic you could be breathing in a lot of smog on the way. If you are going a significant distance negotiate...

6. Body Odor - Thai people almost never smell badly and they find it offensive if others do.

7. Movie Theater - After the advertising and right before the movie a tribute to the Thai King Comes on and everyone stands in respect.

Following these tips will allow you to have more fun in your stay in Bangkok, allowing the locals to be more comfortable with you and give you a better understanding of how things functions in Thailand.

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

Update - Be forewarned: Just in case you noticed a similar article including photos on some other blogs, you can be sure it's the work of some scrappers. This site carries the original article and pictures. Where we use the work of others, we credit them.

Wonders in the Land of Oz

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Mon, 29 Jun 2015 07:17:00 +0000

By M Witt

A holiday itinerary to Down Under (that's Australia, mate) that takes in the major cities will mean advanced planning on your part, especially if you are seeking budget rates at hotels.

Be it in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth or Darwin, smart budget travellers will first check out travel and tourism websites for the right information, make their bookings before flying off to the Land of Oz.

There are a number of such holiday websites on the Internet for you to consider and make price comparisons and other information you may need before your trip.

Cheaperthanhotels.com.au is one such website that have the information if you're looking for cheap accomodation in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth and Darwin. They offer advance discount contract rates, so you save money and secure your hotel reservations. So how about an Australian adventure that will remain as fond memories?

The Australian continent offers a remarkable landscape. If you are travelling to see some of the great Australian tourist locations you will not be disappointed.

Queensland

The Gold Coast

The Great Barrier Reef is one location you will not want to miss. When you think of lazy holidays on sunny beaches, Queensland's regions such as the Gold Coast - a holiday spot of wonderful contrasts - and Whitsundays come to mind. Surfers' Paradise is a favourite for many who are looking for an enjoyable time on its famous beach. In these places you will find the perfect clime and seaside towns that give you the experience of relaxed Australian culture at its best.

Known as the Sunshine State, Queensland offers a rich, diverse experience for vacation trippers. From pristine beaches to lush rainforest wonderlands, you can consider it an ultimate holiday destination. The state capital Brisbane is the third largest city in Australia.

New South Wales

Sydney's Opera House

NSW is Australia’s most diverse state. The state capital, Sydney, is the country’s largest and most cosmopolitan city and it boasts the world famous Opera House which is a sight to behold. It is one of five World Heritage sites. The vibrancy of Sydney with its spectacular beauty will stretch your imagination. From shopping to dining and other activities catering to all your desires will leave you breathless in Sydney.

Like the other Australian states, NSW can boast its own sparkling beaches stretching from north to south, a vast, colourful outback, Australia’s highest mountain offering every type of snow sport, and meandering waterways.

Victoria

Yarra River, Melbourne

In size Victoria is a small state but it has some of the best sightseeing and most fascinating places in the country. There are surprises everywhere. Melbourne, the state capital, is a great place for those who love food and wine - a paradise for the connoisseur. It is an exciting, multi-cultural city with a rich heritage and culture. There are great sporting, fashion and cultural events. Be the adventurous type and discover the eclectic boutiques in the city.

Discover the beauty and diversity of Victoria's regions - From towering rainforests, ski resorts and endless golden bays, to craggy ocean cliffs, rolling green hills and red sandy deserts. Victoria was the main attraction for thousands of gold prospectors in the mid-19th century because of its goldfields, and today the gold mining towns are modern cities.

South Australia

Shades of autumn - Adelaide Hills

The state is wine country. South Australia carries on the tradition of more 160 years of winemaking that began in 1841 when the first vintage was recorded in the Adelaide Hills.

From Shiraz in the Barossa, Riesling in the Clare Valley to the big reds of the Coonawarra, it's a great sparkling journey across some of the most famous wine regions in the world. Adelaide itself is a vibrant southern city with great cultural events going on and shopping buffs will not be short of places to go.

Kangaroo Island

One of the best places to be is Kangaroo Island which is just a "stone's throw away" from the coast of South Australia. The island is seven times the size of Singapore. This unique place is a microcosm of different landscapes and environments, with desert dunes, stunning beaches, forests, and farmlands.

Kangaroo Island was voted top tourism and environment island in the world by National Geographic Traveler magazine for its natural attractions and sensitivity to the environment.

Western Australia

For the authentic Australian experience visit Perth, Australia's western gateway and the capital of Western Australia. It's a great place to start your holiday. Perth City has an easygoing lifestyle. Experience the beauty of Swan River and the inner-city parks and get that easy, peaceful feeling like having a cold beer on a sunny afternoon at an open-air pub.

In WA, as in all the other states, fantastic beaches abound and amazing marine adventures are just waiting for you. For entertainment and other activities, there's plenty of nightlife, bustling markets, inner-city parks and outdoor dining.

Western Australia's history is tied to the ocean. It is a land of great contrasts. The state boasts a rugged and beautiful Outback - from the vast open Nullarbor plains to the colourful marine wonderland of Ningaloo Reef. It's the best of both worlds.

Swan River with Perth's skyline in the background

Tasmania

Tasmania is a green island of wild, mountainous and beautiful landscapes, separated from mainland Australia by the 240 kilometres (150 miles) stretch of Bass Strait. Hobart, its capital, enjoys a busy arts scene, thanks to its creative arts community. The city folks are friendly displaying a relaxed lifestyle. Settled in 1804, the town grew rapidly as the clearing house for British and Irish convicts. Its place on the Derwent River became the perfect protected deepwater harbour, and now every December and January it welcomes weary and exultant contenders from the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

Hobart, Tasmania

Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is a land that is full of surprises - from the lush rainforests of Kakadu and Katherine to the arid red plains of the Red Centre in Alice Springs and the great rock, Uluru (Ayers Rock). Darwin, the state capital, enjoys influences that are as much Asian as they are western with dozens of nationalities sharing an easy-going lifestyle.

The Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Northern Territory

The state is one of the most sparsely populated regions, spanning more than 1.4 million square kilometres from the centre to the northerly coast of the Australian continent. It's a place where ancient woodlands meet sandy beaches and escarpments tower above lush billabongs. If you are a photography buff, you will not want to miss some great shots while watching the sunsets and the storms that are something of a local pastime.

Cool time at the Lichfield National Park, Northern Territory

Alicante - Rich in Culture and History

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 27 Jun 2015 19:21:00 +0000

By Keith Barrett

For many visitors to Spain's popular Costa Blanca coast, Alicante is the first location in Spain that they see. Those who take the time to investigate soon realise that there is more to Alicante than its airport.

Benidorm is the key attraction here for plenty of visitors, with its party atmosphere that has been attracting tourists for many years. Those who choose to stay in Alicante itself have plenty of things to do and see.

The city dates back to Roman times and still has remains from that era. There is also, of course, a much more modern side to the city. La Zona and El Barrio both offer exciting entertainment right into the evening, while the beaches are surrounded by bars, restaurants and more.

Alicante has a number of excellent restaurants, specialising in rice and fish dishes, with paella being popular with both locals and visitors.

Elsewhere, the city's marina provides an excellent experience - a great place to relax and enjoy a meal, making use of the shady outdoor eating to avoid the heat of the day.

The old town offers both history and culture. Wandering around this area, known locally as El Barrio, time almost seems to stand still. You can enjoy strolling around, taking in the pleasant atmosphere of this intriguing city, the second largest in the Valencia region of Spain.

Fortunately, it's never been easier to enjoy the delights of Alicante. Flybe, the budget airline, are really starting to specialise in providing cheap flights to the likes of Alicante and other European resorts.

Flights depart frequently from many of the UK's regional airports, including Southampton and Exeter down on the south coast.

About the author: Keith Barrett - You can find the latest Flybe flight information and more of Keith Barrett's travel articles. This article may be used by any website publisher, though this resource box must always be included in full.

Article Source: EzineArticles

Search flights here and find the best ticket and the best price. Best website to search flight, hotel-booking and car hire

Dominican Republic - Delightful Island in the Sun

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 27 Jun 2015 18:07:00 +0000

Experience the delights of the hot sun and sandy, lush palm tree lined beaches - no other island gives you the mood of the “Caribbean” quite like the Dominican Republic. There really is something for everyone, offering an extensive range of natural beauty, cultural monuments, excellent sporting facilities and fun filled nightlife for those who just don’t want the party to end.

Santo Domingo

The oldest Spanish metropolis in the New World, with nearly 3 million inhabitants, is the political and cultural capital as well as the economical centre of the Dominican Republic. Founded in 1496, the old town of Santo Domingo, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a true treasure trove of colonial architecture.

The cathedral Santa Maria la Menor on the southern side of Columbus Square (Parque Colón) will captivate you with a harmonious vestibule with two arches in the west façade and an interior celebrating the three ships. After it was completed (1521-1540), it was extended with 14 side chapels in which precious objects of art, such as the crown of Queen Isabella, can be seen.

The Alcazar of Columbus (Columbus's Palace), which was the residence of the Spanish viceroy in the 16th Century, rises above the Plaza Espagna. From here, numerous adventurers made plans for crusades to the American continent. The Museo del Hombre Dominicano is dedicated to the history of the island and its indigenous, African and European roots.

The Samana Peninsula

The Caribbean in the travel brochures: small isolated islands, colourful coral reefs with an unbelievable diversity of species and forms, coconut palms swaying in the breeze, romantic waterfalls, dives to old Spanish wrecks, long walks to remote white sandy beaches. Nowhere else will you feel the true Caribbean flair as much as on the Samana Peninsula in the north-east of the Dominican Republic.

The main tourist areas, in addition to Sanchez, with its small harbour and wooden houses in the Victorian style, are Las Terrenas on the north coast and Santa Barbara de Samana in the south on the bay of the same name. The most popular activities in Santa Barbara are strolling to the attractive Malecon, extended visits to cafés and boat trips to Cayo Levantado - made famous throughout the world by the Bacardi advertisements.

The absolute highlight from January to March is the numerous agencies offering whale-watching tours, when up to 3,000 humpback whales gather together to mate in the warm waters of the Bahia de Samana.

Los Haitises National Park

The Tainos, the original inhabitants of Spanish descent(Hispaniolas), named the impassable mountainous area between the Bahia de Samana and the Cordillera Oriental, which is protected as the Los Haitises National Park. Erosion of the limestone here has created one of the most geologically interesting types of landscape in the Caribbean: a distinct, lush Karst landscape with extensive cave systems, collapse craters (dolinas), impressive stone towers (mogotes), which sometimes appear as islands (cayos) off the coast.

Nature lovers can study the life of the cotica parrot, the national bird of the Dominican Republic, amongst the approximately 120 different species of birds in the vast mangrove belts and in the tropical rainforests further inland. Around 2000 BC, the Siboneyes, and later the Tainos, drew the fantastic primordial landscape combined with religious depictions in numerous cave drawings in which whales, fish and insects, as well as a shaman (behique), can be seen.

Lake Enriquillo

The 42 kilometre long Lake Enriquillo at nearly 40 m below sea level is an extraordinary natural spectacle. It is part of a former estuary, the salt content of which is three times higher than that in the Caribbean Sea due to high evaporation at temperatures of up to 50 °C.

In the midst of the lake, the Isla Cabritos National Park surprises you with semi-desert and briar vegetation which is unusual for the region. If you are lucky, in the early hours of the morning on this “Goat island” you may see the largest crocodile in the Americas which is threatened by extinction, as well as turtles, flamingos and rhino iguanas.

The sulphurous whirlpools of the Balneario Las Barias in La Descubierta in the heart of a wonderful oak forest promise refreshment and relaxation. In addition, on the north shore of the lake at the Postrer Rio you will find one of the most significant archeological sites of the Hispaniolas: the Las Caritas sanctuary with petroglyphics, which depict, amongst other things, small faces without ears.

Sosua

Countless souvenir shops, diving schools, travel agencies, discos, cafés and bars and more than 100 guesthouses and hotels - all this makes Sosua the tourist centre of the northern coast of the island. By invitation of the dictator Trujillo, Jewish immigrants founded the city in 1940 and many Europeans from the most varied nations, in particular Germans, settled here subsequently and developed a unique multi-cultural society.

A 1 kilometre long sandy beach separates the two parts of the city from one another: the Caribbean-style Los Charamicos, which lies on a slope and is predominantly inhabited by Dominicans, and El Batey. Under the European influence of Calle Pedro Chisante, this area is dominated by the money-making tourist industry. A synagogue and a historical museum in the Calle Dr. Alejo Martinez district bear witness to the Jewish history of the area. Here bathers can also enjoy the sea from several small beaches, such as Playita and Playa Chiquita.

Puerto Plata

The history of the anchorage ground named “Port of Silver” at the foot of the Pico Isabel de Torres local mountain is characterised by a continual trend of ups and downs. After the initial boom in the 16th Century from trading leather, the area experienced its heyday in the 18th and 19th Centuries exporting tobacco, sugar, coffee and rum. After another decline, the 1980s saw the arrival of tourism to the lovely city centre with its numerous wooden houses.

The Fort San Felipe (mid 16th Century) towers majestically over the harbour entrance at the western end of Malecon. It was erected by order of Carlos V to protect the harbour from pirate attacks. Carefully restored, its rooms house a weapons museum which is well worth a visit. Not far from the contemplative Plaza Central in the Calle Duarte 61, the Museo del Ambar will fascinate you with a large collection of amber, including examples of embedded old leaves, lizards and insects up to 60 million years old.

Santiago de los Caballeros

The money spent in Santo Domingo is earned in Santiago. Nothing characterises the economical significance of the city in the prosperous valley of Rio Cibao better than this expression. Rum and tobacco in particular, along with bananas, sugar, coffee and rice have given the trade metropolis wealth and prosperity.

An unmissable symbol of Santiago is the 67-metre high column at the end of the Calle del Sol, often abbreviated to “El Monumento”, which was ordered by the megalomaniac dictator Trujillo (1930-1961) to commemorate the heroes of the Restauration war in 1865. The history of tobacco cultivation and the industry as well as the skillful manual processing of it is documented vividly in the Museo del Tabaco in the city centre. With an extensive collection of richly decorated masks and costumes, the Museo de Arte Folklórico Tomás Morel in the Calle Restauración y López is devoted to the carnival celebrated so enthusiastically in the Dominican Republic.

Jarabacoa

Set amidst wonderful pine forests at 530 metres, Jarabacoa boasts a pleasant spring-like climate with warm days and cool nights. This part of the Cordillera Central, named the Alpes Dominicanos, offers a range of rafting and walking activities and excursions for nature lovers and those seeking recuperation.

Only 2 km outside this small place, the natural Balneario La Confluencia at the confluence of the Jimenoa and Yaque del Norte rivers offers swimming and relaxation. The 20 metre-high waterfalls Saltos de Jimenoa and Saltos de Baiguate can be reached by foot or horseback. Both are also popular with Dominican holidaymakers.

In 3 to 4 day excursions you can explore Jarabacoa or the village of Cienaga as well as the extinct volcanoes in the Armando Bermudez National Park, the Loma de la Viuda (2,802 m), the Pico de Yaque (3,045 m) and the Pico Duarte, at 3,175 m the highest peak in the Caribbean.

About The Author: Darren McCowan is an online Brand Manager and owner of http://lastminutetraveluk.co.uk. Last Minute Travel UK is one of the largest affiliate based holiday websites, serving hundreds of customers each month.

Malta - 7,000 Years of Rich History

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Fri, 20 Mar 2015 06:03:00 +0000

Skyview of Malta

Malta has 7000 years of rich history so here you can visit many popular attractions including Pre Historic Temples, forts, museum, churches and much more. For art lovers, there is a huge artistic collection at the National Museum of Fine Arts to explore. You can also view more contemporary work at St Johns Cavalier Art Centre.

Valletta -“a city of palaces built by gentlemen for gentlemen” is the capital of Malta. The main tourist attractions of Valletta are Manoel Theatre & Manoel Theatre Museum, National Museum of Fine Arts, War Museum, St. Paul’s Anglican pro-cathedral, St. Augustine’s parish church, Valletta Waterfront, Basilica of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and many more.

Another popular island of Malta is Gozo which is Malta’s sister island and famous for their natural and alluring beauty. It is also very popular for those who really love nature. Crystal clear blue sea, beaches, natural valleys, gardens and beautiful flowers give a never forgettable experience. Visitors make their tours more enjoyable with various water sports, swimming, boating, golf and horse ridding.

Accommodations in Malta and Gozo make the tours of Malta more cheerful. Spacious and decorated apartments, private villas, modern farmhouses with natural beauty, guest houses, penthouses etc. are available for peaceful and cheerful rental vacations in Malta.

Apartments, villas and farmhouses also offers self catering facilities where you can spend your vacations in a feel like home environment.

All these accommodation facilities are so affordable so that one can stay here for a long time. Here along with short term, long term accommodation facility are also available so that if your wish you could stay for a long time in this wonderful place.

You can also enjoy the taste of traditional dishes of Malta including local bear, tomato and wine sauces with pasta and fresh fish.

So visit Malta and Gozo at least once because here there is something for every one.

Malta-lets.com offers affordable and peaceful accommodation facilities in Malta including villas, penthouses and apartments in Malta.

Visit today for Malta farmhouse at special prices.

Author: Tejrin Raghav

Adventure travel, and great food

Hong Kong - 10 Wonderful Places To Visit

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 06:01:00 +0000

Hong Kong is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Asia. This country is known for its wonderful shopping experience as well as the modern way of living. If you are going to visit Hong Kong, prepare yourself for a wonderful blending of Western and Eastern cultures.

1.) Repulse Bay

So far, this is Hong Kong’s most famous beach. Here, you will get to see the Chinese Pavilion that is home to statues of the traditional Chinese gods. This is also a wonderful place if you want to have a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in Hong Kong sights and sounds.

2.) Stanley Village

This is a very popular seaside village, and many tourists flock here yearly. You can find here a very trendy shopping center as well as the infamous Stanley Market where you can find lots of bargain items. This is also a good place for you to buy your souvenirs.

3.) Ride the Peak Tram

This is the best way if you want to reach the area called the Peak. Once you are in the Peak Tram, prepare yourself for the dizzying sights below and enjoy the seven-minute ride to the top. If you are afraid of heights though, this ride is not for you.

4.) Victoria Peak

Victoria Peak view

This is where your Peak Tram ride ends. Once you reach Victoria Peak, be enthralled at the wonderful sight of the city below, especially if you visit Victoria Peak at night when Hong Kong city lights are brightly shining. You can also find excellent restaurants here, and what better way to enjoy dinner than having a beautiful sight at the same time?

5.) Party in SoHo

If you want the best of the modern world, then come to SoHo. In this place, you will surely enjoy the many international restaurants and bars that are located here as well as the shops. Be prepared for the night of your life here.

6.) Ride the Ngong Ping 360

Like the Peak Tram, this is not for those who are afraid of heights, but to those who are not, then be prepared for this beautiful cable car ride towards the Giant Buddha. During this ride, you will get fabulous 360-degree views of Hong Kong’s rugged terrain and the sea. The wonderful sight of the fertile valley below is truly something.

7.) Visit the Po Lin Monastery and the Giant Buddha

Your ride on the Ngong Ping will take you to these two tourist attractions. Here, you will get the chance to visit the Po Lin Monastery and enjoy its unique structure. Plus, you will also be fascinated by the seated Giant Buddha.

8.) Take a Walk on the Wisdom Path

Credit: dawvon

This is surely something that a tourist must do when in Lantau Island, Hong Kong. This is also called the Heart Sutra. Here, you will see wooden pillars where the prayers are written, and what is interesting about it is that the pillars are arranged in the infinity symbol.

9.) Tai O Fishing Village

Credit: yeowatzup

For a firsthand experience of Hong Kong culture, visit the fishing village of Tai O. You will surely become fascinated with the houses that are built on stilts along the creek. The families who live here are said to be direct descendants of the first settlers of Hong Kong and are called the Hanka People.

10.) Enjoy Causeway Bay

Credit: bchow

If SoHo is not enough for you, then you must definitely visit Causeway Bay. Here, you will definitely enjoy its malls as well as little shops and boutiques. If you want more bargain items, then definitely go to Causeway Bay’s street markets.

About The Author: Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos. Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/hongkong to view or share Hong Kong travel videos.

How to deal with jet lag

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 14 Sep 2013 05:52:00 +0000

by Trevor Johnson

Jet lag is an awkward side effect of jet travel when you cross too many time zones for your body's liking. Face it, most of us have enough problems when we shift just an hour to daylight savings. Follow these tips on avoiding jet lag to help reduce the effects.

Not all these tips are relevant for every trip, especially if you're traveling on business at short notice, but at least some of them should be useful for you.

1. Adjust your sleep time

Start helping your body clock to adjust to the new time zone by changing the times that you go to sleep at night and awaken in the morning. You'll start to become accustomed to the new times. Make the adjustment about an hour each night.

2. Set your watch

As soon as you board your flight, set your watch to the new time. We look at our watches an amazingly high amount of times, so adjusting the time as soon as possible will help your mind realize that it's changing clocks.

3. Drink water. Lots of it

Sure, you can ask the stewardess for water but they have hundreds of other passengers to look after as well. Buy a bottle of water once you've passed through airport control and drink plenty of water during your flight.

4. Say no to coffee and alcohol

They both act as dehydrators. So they'll help to dry up your body even more than the flight already does. Soft drinks or water are to be preferred.

5. Get some rest on the flight

Depending on how enthusiastic the cabin staff are, this may be easier said than done. And if that child behind you rocks your seat once more, then that's another story. If you get the option, a window seat or one in the center of a block of seats will minimize the number of people who need to ask you to move out of their way. Noise canceling headphones aren't standard issue on many flights, so if you are a regular traveler then treat yourself to a set. They really do cut down the disturbance of engine noise.

6. Go walkabout occasionally

OK, this is at odds with getting rest. But sitting down for hours on end isn't a good idea either. Walk up and down the aisles a few times. Not so much that you're pacing them but certainly go for this exercise a few times on a long flight. Just be certain not to time your expedition for meal or drinks or duty free services.

7. Adjust to your new time zone on the plane

If it's daytime at your destination, stay awake. If it's night where you are going, get some sleep. You can catch up on the in flight entertainment when you've got a bigger screen and better sound. Start adjusting as soon as you can.

8. Keep adjusting at your destination

Even if you've been on a plane for hours and hours. The sooner you start adjusting, the better. So if you arrive in the dead of night, get to sleep. A dose of melatonin may help here - it's a natural sleeping aid that's already produced by your body.

About The Author: Trevor Johnson - Get more help on how to cope with jet lag including various jet lag remedies at http://www.squidoo.com/copewithjetlag

Do you need marlin fishing or sometype of other sportfishing in Oahu, Hawaii? If so www.reelintensesportfishing.com is the fishing charter of Oahu for you. Don't hesitate to call we have all the big game fishing in Hawaii!

Ready To Get Wild In Australia? Visit Sydney's Taronga Zoo

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Thu, 22 Aug 2013 12:49:00 +0000

When there is a trip to the beautiful city of Sydney, there needs to be a plan of things that you will want to see and do on a regular basis. These things will be more than enough to fill up your time while in the city. One of the stops that you need to make sure that you visit will be the Taronga Zoo Sydney.

When you head to the zoo, make sure that you check out some of the various fun features that you can take part in such as you and three of your family members are able to get close to such animals as koala bears and owls. This will be well worth the price to this exhibit.

Your family will be ecstatic as a result of being able to get up close and personal with some of the more exotic animals on the planet. This will allow them to feel like they are close to nature and as a result are able to have a better feel for the surrounding nature and elements that are around them.

Conservation is the most important aspect that needs to be addressed when it comes to the purpose of the zoo.

While many zoos are looking at just showing the animals of the world, the Taronga Zoo Sydney, is focused on ensuring that these animals are able to continue to be enjoyed. There are a lot of different advantages that are able to be enjoyed by visitors both young and old.

If you are a lover of nature and looking for a way that you are able to photograph this beauty in its purest form, then the zoo offers people the opportunity to take lessons in photography in order to capture all of nature in its glory and beauty.

There are also programs and lectures that you child will be able to take a part in to learn about many animals that they may have never even heard of before. This can give them a lot to talk about when they get back home to talk with their friends.

While the zoo is a rather large place to explore, it is a wise decision that you take a day or two to fully explore the zoo and see all that it has to offer the visitor.

There is too much beauty and wonderfulness that is associated with the zoo to see it all in a single day. This is a trip that many people will want to make on a regular basis in order to get the full experience of the zoo.

The Taronga Zoo Sydney affords a person the chance to get closer to the animals than many of the zoos in the area or the rest of the world all together. While you cannot pet a wild tiger, you are able to get close to some of the less harmful animals that are in the immediate area.

The next time that you and the family are looking for a fun place to head in order to have a fun filled adventure, consider a trip to the Taronga Zoo Sydney and see all that the zoo has to offer its guest that come into their own wild kingdom, this will be well worth the price of admission.

About the Author: Fraser Brown is an experienced writer that is actually a Sydney Accommodation expert and is specially well known for concentrating on Sydney vacation and information ventures

Wonderful Copenhagen

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 21:39:00 +0000

When you think of Danish author and poet Hans Christian Andersen who was noted for his children's stories, wonderful Copenhagen comes to mind.

Copenhagen is Denmark's capital and is one of Europe's oldest cities with a royal touch. The Danish monarchy is the oldest in the world.

The city lies in the centre of the most dynamic region in Europe, the Øresund Region.

From Oct 1-9, 2009, Copenhagen was the venue for the 121st IOC Session and the first IOC Congress of the millennium. The Copenhagen Olympic Festival, which offered a wide range of cultural and sports activities, drew many tourists to the chic and exciting city.

The statue of The Little Mermaid, situated on Copenhagen's waterfront, is a national landmark and synonymous with Denmark.

Hans Christian Andersen wrote the fairy tale of The Little Mermaid in 1837. The statue is a top tourist attraction in Denmark and one of the most photographed statues in the world.

Swine Flu: A Travel Advisory

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 16 May 2009 08:51:00 +0000

People wearing masks in Mexico City - Credit: hmerinomx

The swine flu is spreading to more countries around the world with the number of confirmed cases surging to more than 1,000, according to the World Health Organization.

Although most of the deaths took place in Mexico - a top tourist destination - WHO experts had suggested that the flu virus (H1N1) "is transmissible enough that we will expect to see continued community level outbreaks and regional spread."

Health officials have warned of a "second wave" of the virus which could be far worse.

The latest WHO data revealed 7,520 people in 34 countries were confirmed to have caught the influenza A (H1N1) virus, up 1,000 from Thursday (May 14, 2009).

The US has reported two more deaths, bringing the number of fatalities to five. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said only four states - Alaska, Mississippi, West Virginia and Wyoming - are still free from the outbreak.

Fresh updates of flu cases continue to trickle in with health authorities in Malaysia confirming two cases of influenza A (H1N1) virus on Friday and Ecuador had discovered its first case in the port city of Guayaquil.

However, some three weeks after warning against non-essential travel to Mexico, US officials are planning to relax a travel advisory to the Central American country where the flu first broke out.

The swine flu outbreak had ravaged Mexico's vital tourism industry and cost its economy billions.

WHO has declared the level of alert to Phase 5, one step short of a pandemic declaration.

Breathless in the City of Lights

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 02:34:00 +0000

Romancing Gay Paree Paris, the capital of France, is a dream city to visit. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. More than 40 million tourists visit the Paris Region every year, 60% of whom are foreign visitors.

There are numerous iconic landmarks among the city's many attractions, along with world-famous institutions and popular parks.

Paris, situated on the river Seine, is also popularly known as the "City of Lights" literally translated from "La Ville-Lumière" (The Light City). The nickname derives from its fame as a centre of education and ideas and the city's early adoption of street lighting.

As one of the world's leading business and cultural centres, its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities.

Your vacation in Paris can be an unforgetable experience. Here Charlie Reese provides an itinerary guide for those who are planning a Parisian holiday.

credit: agaw.dilim

Your Very Own Paris Vacation

The City of Lights offers a lifetime of touring. Paris is one of the most famous and beautiful of European destinations. Were it not for budget and time constraints, any visitor to Paris will tell you it becomes tempting indeed to just keep wandering the more than 600 square miles that is Paris.

This most beautiful and fascinating city seems never to run out of attractions, both famous and relatively unknown. The trouble with compiling a list of places to visit in Paris is that you almost always leave something unseen. Your vacation time is always limited by that return flight ticket. Most of us lucky enough to visit Paris must wisely organize our activities around a set amount of time.

Whether you have just a few days, a week or a month, you're well advised to get a detailed travel guide, which details as many of your touring sites as possible. Sure, no matter how short your visit, you must make time to tour the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. These destinations are must-do's, a perhaps once in a lifetime opportunities. However, when push comes to shove, a comprehensive guide to places to visit in Paris may leave you breathless.

The city of Paris dates back to Roman times, with streets of cobbled stone still intact, which you can still walk today. For example, Rue Mouffetard (pic above) today hosts a lively neighborhood of bistros, exotic dining, tiny and exquisite shops and the famous marketplace. Rue Mouffetard is also one of the original streets leading south to Rome. Walking this area of the Left Bank is a fascinating mix of history and modern life in Paris. A thorough exploration of just this small district of Paris can take weeks. When you comb the guide books for your discriminating list of places to visit in Paris, you'll soon see the futility in trying to do it all.

For the most satisfying personal experience, you'll want to combine the major attractions with your particular list of your subjects of interest. Granted, the museum buff can make an itinerary which attempts to hit all the major museums in a week. Your head will be spinning at the end of that week.

One approach that can prove to be satisfying to the first time visitor to Paris is to dedicate at least a third of your time to walking tours. Before you firm up you list of places to visit in Paris, buy at least one travel book devoted strictly to walking tours. Such tours are laid out in a step by step fashion, designed to make your walking itinerary hit as many landmarks, hot spots, interesting shops and restaurants as you might in a single day.

credit: dalbera

About the Author: Charlie Reese enjoys giving tourist and free fortune and tarot readings advice on his meaning of each tarot card website daily.

Eight Tips On Dealing With Jet Lag

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:15:00 +0000

Credit: Todd Huffman

Jet lag is an awkward side effect of jet travel when you cross too many time zones for your body's liking. Face it, most of us have enough problems when we shift just an hour to daylight savings. Follow these tips on avoiding jet lag to help reduce the effects.

Not all these tips are relevant for every trip, especially if you're traveling on business at short notice, but at least some of them should be useful for you.

1. Adjust your sleep time

Start helping your body clock to adjust to the new time zone by changing the times that you go to sleep at night and awaken in the morning. You'll start to become accustomed to the new times. Make the adjustment about an hour each night.

2. Set your watch

As soon as you board your flight, set your watch to the new time. We look at our watches an amazingly high amount of times, so adjusting the time as soon as possible will help your mind realize that it's changing clocks.

3. Drink water. Lots of it

Sure, you can ask the stewardess for water but they have hundreds of other passengers to look after as well. Buy a bottle of water once you've passed through airport control and drink plenty of water during your flight.

4. Say no to coffee and alcohol

They both act as dehydrators. So they'll help to dry up your body even more than the flight already does. Soft drinks or water are to be preferred.

5. Get some rest on the flight

Depending on how enthusiastic the cabin staff are, this may be easier said than done. And if that child behind you rocks your seat once more, then that's another story. If you get the option, a window seat or one in the center of a block of seats will minimize the number of people who need to ask you to move out of their way. Noise canceling headphones aren't standard issue on many flights, so if you are a regular traveler then treat yourself to a set. They really do cut down the disturbance of engine noise.

6. Go walkabout occasionally

OK, this is at odds with getting rest. But sitting down for hours on end isn't a good idea either. Walk up and down the aisles a few times. Not so much that you're pacing them but certainly go for this exercise a few times on a long flight. Just be certain not to time your expedition for meal or drinks or duty free services.

7. Adjust to your new time zone on the plane

If it's daytime at your destination, stay awake. If it's night where you are going, get some sleep. You can catch up on the in flight entertainment when you've got a bigger screen and better sound. Start adjusting as soon as you can.

8. Keep adjusting at your destination

Even if you've been on a plane for hours and hours. The sooner you start adjusting, the better. So if you arrive in the dead of night, get to sleep. A dose of melatonin may help here - it's a natural sleeping aid that's already produced by your body.

About The Author: Trevor Johnson writes about travel. Get more help on how to cope with jet lag including various jet lag remedies at http://www.squidoo.com/copewithjetlag

Holidays In Orlando, Florida

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 18:07:00 +0000

photo credit: yeowatzup - Disney World

photo credit: d4rr3ll - Magic Kingdom

photo credit: Kamoteus - Universal Boardwalk

photo credit: supervillain - Orlando Sunset

By Terry Hely

A little known citrus farming center called Orlando was paid a visit the 1960s by a gentleman called Walt Disney who started buying land on the outskirts of the town.

The remainder of that story is now history and by 1971, that land had become Walt Disney World. Today, Orlando has a resident population of approximately 200,000 people and visitor numbers swell that figure into the many millions.

The words "Orlando, Florida" immediately conjure up images of fairy tale palaces, thrill rides, theme parks and Disney characters loved the world over. The combination of the "big 3" Orlando entertainment parks of Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Studios have no equal anywhere else in the world.

Located on the the outskirts of Orlando, the towns of Lake Buena Vista and Kissimmee are home to most of the major entertainment park attractions.

It's no surprise that the accommodation industry generates a major portion of the Orlando economy and that it employs a high percentage of the local population.

The nearby towns of Winter Haven and Altamonte Springs offer a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Orlando and the parks. Their quiet rural charm and sedate pace provides a glimpse back to the time before the area became the home of the world's best known entertainment parks.

Orlando Hotels And Resorts

Orlando has more beds to service the tourist industry than any other USA city except for Las Vegas. Orlando is the fifth most popular USA city for travelers visiting from overseas. It is not surprising that the accommodation industry represents a major portion of the Orlando economy and employs a high percentage of the local population.

Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to Orlando accommodation and every taste is catered for in every price range. From themed luxury hotels, fantasy resorts, exclusive golf resorts, condominiums, vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, backpacker hostels to luxury villas, it's all available in and around Orlando.

The parks have several entrances which can be separated from each other by quite a distance, so selecting accommodation near the best gate for you can be an important consideration. Orlando accommodation is often named for proximity to a particular theme park (Universal) or a particular gate (main gate east etc)

Orlando Transport

At least 35 airlines and just as many charter operators fly into Orlando International Airport with the bulk of these flights being Delta which accounts for around 25% of the flights that originate in approximately 160 different cities.

Other airlines serving Orlando are America West, American, Air Canada, British Airways, Continental, Northwest and US Airways. The Orlando Airport website provides and excellent page about airport shuttle services and city transport.

Amtrak is the USA rail service and it operates to and from Orlando with connections to many of the surrounding towns such as Kissimmee, Sebring, Winter Haven, Sanford and Ocala.

The I Ride trolley service is an excellent way to get around the International Drive Resort precinct. The LYNX bus service covers the downtown Orlando metropolitan area and surrounding cities.

The main highway through Orlando is I4, running directly from downtown Orlando to the Disney area. If you plan on driving in Orlando, be prepared for traffic, especially at rush hour.

About The Author: Terry Hely writes destination guides that are valuable resources for planning vacations and travel. Find out more about Orlando vacations from his page at http://www.go-florida.net/orlando-florida.htm

Mexico Holidays and Packages

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 20:50:00 +0000

Yucatan Peninsula, photo: Stillframe

By Maria Thomas

Mexico - a country with a turbulent history - encompasses fantastic legends and lore. Its culture with its Spanish connection has its own indigenous appeal. That appeal has infiltrated into its art, design and architecture.

From museums and opera houses to tranquil beach resorts, travellers in Mexico will definitely not ask for anything more. Over 500 festivals and holidays are celebrated annually throughout Mexico City and nearby towns showcasing deep historical ancestry.

Chichen Itza's Kukulcan Temple, photo: kyle simourd

Mexico is one of the most admired tourist spots.

The first name that comes in mind is Riviera Maya. Due to its lush jungle, landscape, shoreline and history, Riviera Maya has a variety of attractions to entice travellers. Playa del Carmen, a major town in the region and runs along the beach offering tourists prominent hotels, it also provides the shoppers an array of colourful local handicrafts to meet the latest trends in European fashions. Next comes the Yucatán Peninsula, an archeological goldmine, situated on the Gulf of Mexico's southern shore. It was the center of Mayan civilization throughout their rule.

Los Cabos at dusk, photo: jeffgunn

The beach resorts outside the capital city is one of the places that people who travel to Mexico will surely enjoy. The beach destination is also regarded as the most accepted option for a romantic honeymoon getaway.

Acapulco is one of the popular tourist spots where you can enjoy fishing as well as water sports. Acapulco is also noted for its hotels, casinos and beach resorts. Mazatlan is also an admired tourist destination, a place where pre-Lenten carnivals and fishing tournaments take place. One can also find in Mazatlan an observatory and one of the tallest lighthouses in the world.

Other beaches that travellers in Mexico should not miss are the Cancun Island, the Puerto Vallarta and the Los Cabos.

Mexico is one of the most important museum destinations in the world.

Museums that travellers in Mexico should visit are the National Museum of Anthropology, Museum of National History, Snail Museum, Technology Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. Children will also enjoy the Mexico City Zoo and the Papalote, a children's interactive museum.

Travelling to Mexico will not be complete without visiting the Basilica de Guadalupe, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Chapultepec Castle. The monuments abound in the Paseo de la Reforma are Angel of the Independence (the symbol of the country's national identity), Cuauhtemoc Memorial and the Diana Cazadora (the statue of Diana the Huntress).

The Zona Rosa or the Pink Zone is an ideal shopping paradise covering boutique squares, shops and hotels. The Alameda Park is also a shopping district, which borders the Palace of Fine Arts. Travellers can find the Pyramid of the Sun and Moon in Teotihuacan that face each other, providing a great view of the surrounding regions from the top.

Mexico is one of the most popular vacation destinations of North America. Winter is the best time for a tour to Mexico, as majority of Mexico is positioned in the tropics, making weather somewhat reliable and the months of July and August inevitably avoidable, when temperatures may not drop below 90F at night. Great waves, sea caves and the closeness of many interesting locales strengthens the lure of this western peninsula.

About the author: Maria Thomas is a owner of the Holidays with best bargain from Online travel agency Bargain Holidays with World Wise Travel, Online travel Agency an independent, online travel agency. We deal with all the major ABTA and ATOL bonded tour operators and all the major airlines

Article Source: EzineArticles

How To Search For Last Minute Holidays

noreply@blogger.com (admin1) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 19:45:00 +0000

Big Ben

London Bridge

A complete guide to buying last minute holidays. Tips & advice on how to get the best travel deals, when to buy, what to buy and where to go.

By Jez Rourke

When you are looking for holidays, you know that you are often up against the clock. There might be several situations in which you have waited until the last possible second to get your holiday planning and booking done, and you will find that if this is the case, you are often going to be flustered and not quite sure how to get the best deals.

You might even be kicking yourself for not doing it sooner. However, you shouldn't fear. You can get good deals on your holidays, even if you wait until the last possible moment to plan for them.

First of all, don't automatically take the highest bid because you feel you have run out of time to wait for a lower one. Even if you are planning your holiday for a time that is only several days away, you still might be able to find good deals but only if you are vigilant and are willing to search multiple places. You might be surprised at what you can figure out, and it just might be that you end up with a good deal after all.

Next, make sure that you are checking for local cancellations. This is one of the best ways to get great deals on your holiday, even if they are last minute deals.

Often if, you are looking to get a room somewhere or to do something that might be sold out, you will be able to purchase cancellation rooms or spots right before you intend to go. This means that even if you haven't planned very far in advance, you might still be able to get the most out of your holiday as well.

Another excellent secret to getting good deals is to stay local. Often, you will find it easier to get late deals on things if you can do them locally. You will find that you are able to get the most out of your holiday, even if you aren't going very far away from home. This might indeed be the best way that you can be a success when it comes to your holidays and to your destinations.

Remember, just because you haven't planned ahead doesn't mean that you aren't going to get a good deal on your holiday. If you are patient and follow through on your inquiries, and if you are willing to wait for cancellations, as well as if you plan a holiday for a place near to you, you will still be able to find lots of good deals, even at the last possible moment.

About: directline-holidays.co.uk searches all the major holiday companies to find you the best deals on last minute holidays.