There is so much on offer in this vibrant city that you probably will not have time to take in everything; fortunately though, a lot of the most popular sights are located quite near to each other. The Tower of London, the Houses Of Parliament, and Westminter Abbey are all not to be missed. You might want to consider taking them as part of a guided tour, as learning a little about their histories will give you an even better appreciation of them.

Also, be sure to find time for the House of Lords, the House of Commons, and the accompanying clock tower. You have probably seen the clock tower, called Big Ben, on TV, and it is even more impressive when you see it in person. It has four 23-foot faces that light up at night. The minute hands alone are 14 feet long. It is not open for public tours, but standing back far enough to see it is a rewarding view.

There are various palaces and historical buildings spread around the city. The Queen of England lives in the most famous of all them, which is called Buckingham Palace. The changing of the guard outside is a sight to see. Tourists will gather long before the appointed time just to see the grand guards in their world famous red and black uniforms. The hat itself is legendary.

Depending on the time of year, catch a sporting event. London has some of best stadiums in the whole world, and five Premier League football (or soccer if you prefer) teams, including Arsenal and Chelsea, who have genuine football superstars in their teams. If English football is not your scene not to worry, check out a rugby game or world class tennis at Queens and Wimbledon during June and July.

As for getting around, remember, they drive on the left side of the road In England. If you rent a car, ask the agency for a map. If you are only going to be in London for a day or so, it might be easier to go by way of taxi. One thing that always stands out in pictures of London is the double-decker bus. They tower over traffic and are as reliable as public transportation can be. Take a ride just for the heck of it. Using the underground train system is probably the quickest way to get about though; it is so extensive that you can literally use it to get to anywhere in the whole of London.

No matter where you go and what you do in London, take plenty of photos. It’s only your first time once!

This article is sponsored by ‘Cheap London Hostels‘.

Jaws

Jaws certainly has an awful lot to answer for in terms of shark conservation. Okay, so it might have helped in making people aware of what dangers lurk in the deep, dark ocean, but it also scared a lot of people off sharks. The shark was portrayed as a blood-thirsty killer, when in actual fact shark attacks are a rare occurrence; so rare in fact that you’re more likely to die from a coconut then you are a great white shark attack. However, something good did come out of the movie, the author of ‘Jaws’ was so surprised at the commotion that his book caused, that he now works hard to ensure the safety of sharks in the ocean.

Sharky and George

Sharky and his flounder friend, George were the original crime-busters of the sea, but unlike Jaws, Sharky was a huge pink shark and not really very scary at all. His main job was fighting the various gangs that hung around Seacago and his main villain was Dr. Jelly, the self-proclaimed master of the sea. According to the lyrics, Sharky’s pink nose is what helped to make him such a great detective and the producers certainly got that right. A shark can detect a single drop of blood from over two miles away, so it is any wonder then that Sharky and George were never defeated?

Bruce the Shark

In the ‘Finding Nemo’ movie, Bruce is a great white shark who speaks with Australian accent and wants to give up fish forever. He attends weekly meetings with his friends, Anchor and Chum, where the motto is ‘Fish Are Friends, Not Food’. However, like someone with an addiction he occasionally slips up and eats a fish, although he really doesn’t mean to. In real life, great white sharks rarely eat fish as they see them as a low energy prey. They are more likely to attempt to hunt sea lions, seals and dolphins which are fattier and more energy rich. Shark conservation volunteers have studied the sharks hunting techniques and found that, when given the choice between a square target and a seal-shaped target, the great white shark will always go for the seal-shaped target, which is what they believe causes the majority of shark-attacks on surfers.

Don Lino

Don Lino is another fearsome shark and in ‘Shark Tale’ he is head of a mob of criminally-inclined sharks. Don Lino wants his sons to take over ‘the business’, which further adds to the stereotype that all sharks are ruthless killers. However, after a tragic accident kills his son, Frankie, it emerges that his surviving son Lenny, who likes dressing as a dolphin and is a vegetarian, isn’t going to be much use.

Vegetarian sharks seem to a popular concept in animated movies, but in reality there are no vegetarian shark species. Some sharks, such as tiger sharks have been known to eat absolutely anything. Shark conservation volunteers have found rubber tyres, sea snakes, wine bottles and license plates inside carcasses of this creature, earning it the nickname ‘dustbin of the sea’.

Mark Bottell is the General Manager for Worldwide Experience, an online tour operator offering extended breaks on shark conservation holidays and various adventurous gap years for adults.

Patara Beach

People from all over the world come to Kalkan, Turkey to visit the beautiful Patara Beach. The secluded beach is ideal for those that want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and simply relax and unwind in the calm surroundings. The azure waters are the perfect temperature for taking a dip, although be careful to watch out for the loggerhead turtles that make their home in this national park. The beach is closed after sunset to give the turtles peace in which to lay their eggs, so make sure you get there early. Although Patara is the second most important turtle nesting beach in Turkey, its slightly more unusual claim to fame is the fact that it is the original home of St. Nicholas, better known as Santa Claus.

Tlos Ruins

Tlos is located a short drive away from Kalkan, Turkey and was considered to be one of the most important religious centres during the Lycian period. It was home to the winged horse, Pegasus and the mythological hero, Bellerophon. Tlos dates back to 2000 BC and wandering around the remains you’ll see a spectacular amphitheatre and remains of an old Ottoman Castle. However, the rock tombs are considered to be the region’s best preserved remains. The largest tomb is dedicated to Bellerophon, the greatest hero and slayer of monsters. Greek mythology tells how Bellerophon slayed the Chimera, a monster with a lion’s head, a goat’s body and a serpent’s tail. You can visit the eternal fires of the Chimera in Kalkan, Turkey and see the very place where the myth of the Chimera started.

Kastellorizo

Be the envy of all your friends and spend one day in Kalkan Greek-island hopping. The tiny island of Kastellorizo, or Meis, is Greece’s easternmost island and can easily be visited on a boat-trip from Kalkan, Turkey. The small island has a population of just over 200, but this doesn’t stop it being serviced by Olympic Airways. The harbour area has a charming collection of waterfront shops and restaurants and we recommend stopping for a traditional Greek meal. As you can well imagine, seafood is very much the menu du jour.

The Castle of the Knights offers stunning views out across the Mediterranean to the Turkish town of Kas, and its well worth the short climb that the view entails.Kastellorizo is also known for its beautiful churches and many of them are named after St George. You may want to spend a lazy afternoon strolling around them and admiring the neatly painted frescoes. However, before you head back to Kalkan, you may want to stop off at the duty-free store, where alcohol and perfume is much cheaper than on the mainland.

Nick Wrightman is the founder and M.D. of The Tapestry Collection, specialist holiday tour operators who can arrange a stay in Kalkan Turkey as well as packages for Crete, Kefalonia and Morocco. The Tapestry Collection includes boutique hotels, villas, exclusive apartments, gulet holidays and riads in a selection of delightful resorts.

Villas in Turkey are perfect for the whole family

Let’s face it, very few families have exactly 2 children and if you’ve ever tried to book a hotel holiday for a family of 5, then you’ll be aware of the horrors of hotel room logistics. Booking a hotel for anything more (or less) than 2 adults and 2 children is quite simply a complete nightmare. Hotels are perfect for couples without children and families with two children, but if you have more offspring than this and want to avoid hefty single supplements, the answer lies in villas in Turkey.

From the two-bedroom Akinci Evi, in the heart of the Kaya Valley, to the four-bedroom Mediterranean House, in Kalkan, there are villas in Turkey available for families of all sizes, which means that you can even bring granny along.

Villas in Turkey are great for fussy eaters

In a country as beguiling and exotic as Turkey, you have to brace yourself for the possibility that your child might not take to the local cuisine. Hotels are great at catering for fussy eaters, but more often than not the children’s menu consists of three different dishes with chips. If you’re on a two week holiday, forcing your child to eat chips for a fortnight solid is a less than attractive prospect. It’s great for families that villas in Turkey are self-catering as you can cook your family the meals that they want, when you want to – which also means no sitting around waiting for the hotel restaurant to open.

Turkey is known for its bustling souks, and looking around the markets for local ingredients is all part of the traditional holiday experience. With succulent olives, crusty bread and delicious baklava you’re bound to find something that takes your fancy in the local markets. Most villas in Turkey also include a barbecue alongside a swimming pool, which creates for a fantastic holiday eating experience.

Villa Holidays are quieter

Hotels have to cater to everyone; from the 18-30 year olds on their clubbing holidays to families looking for a relaxing break away from the stresses and strains of modern life. This means that they are often located in bustling neighbourhoods that are close to the beach for families, and near to the clubs for the party-animals. Whilst this in-town location can seem great, do you really want to be nursing your two-year-old back to bed when the drunks start arriving back from their bars and clubs at 3 in the morning? Thought not.

Villas in Turkey differ in that they can be found in secluded locations, overlooking beautiful beaches and nestled amongst greenery. They offer your family the privacy that you require, whilst overlooking scenic landscapes and views unspoiled by clusters of resort hotels. Many villas in Turkey also include their own swimming pool, so there’s no need to share with other families. And if you are a party animal? Well, there are also villas in Turkey located close to bars and clubs in many resorts. But with your own barbecue and swimming pool you could find that you’re the one hosting the party.

Nick Wrightman is the founder and M.D. of The Tapestry Collection, specialist holiday tour operators who can arrange a stay in villas in Turkey as well as packages for Crete, Kefalonia and Morocco. The Tapestry Collection includes boutique hotels, villas, exclusive apartments, gulet holidays and riads in a selection of delightful resorts.

The Pelion is known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, but the resort has more to offer visitors than just sea and sand. The scenic villages of Tsagarada, Portaria and Makrinitsa are all located on the peninsula and a visit, whilst walking in Greece, will take you back to a more traditional way of life. Tsagarada is known locally as the village of the flowers, but it is a 1,000 year old plane tree that visitors from all over regard as the village’s most famous attraction. The trunk is 14 inches in diameter and, contrary to the common law of botany, is joined by two other branches to form a seamless arm. In fact, some people believe that the tree bears more than a passing resemblance to a cuttlefish.

The village of the flowers is nestled underneath a giant mountain and the contrast of the region is further highlighted when you discover that this mountain is a popular ski resort in the winter. In the summer season you’re more likely to find ornithologists gathered around the mountain than skiers. This is because the resort is home to some rare birds, such as Booted Eagles, White-backed Woodpeckers and Golden Eagles.

You’ll come across some truly spectacular sights whilst walking in Greece’s Pelion Peninsula, but the most famous attraction in the area is the church of Agia Marina, in the mountain town of Kissos. Every village in Pelion is framed by its local church, but the Agia Marina is unique. Inside you can see the stunning frescoes and spectacular works of art that adorn both the ceiling and walls. If religious art is a particular interest of yours, then you can’t afford to miss the town of Zagora. Although, none of Zagora’s churches are as spectacular as the Agia Marina, the Byzantine icons and sacred vessels make them popular with pilgrims.

Zagora is the largest village in the Pelion and, walking in Greece, you’re certain to pass through here at some point. One of the first things that you may notice about Zagora is the fragrant smell of apple blossom. The town is Greece’s largest apple-producing region, so make sure you stop off en-route at one of the local tavernas and treat yourself to succulent Milopita; an apple and pear spiced cake cooked with cinnamon, metaxa brandy and Granny Smith apples. In true local style, this desert is best sampled with a cup of thick Greek coffee.

According to Greek legends, the Pelion Peninsula was the land of the Centaurs and the holiday resort of the Gods. After visiting the Peninsula, we’re certain that you’ll agree the ancient Gods choose the ideal location to take their holidays.

Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Worldwide Holidays. Operating since 1946, they now offer over 250 guided group walking holidays in more than 90 different countries. While walking in Greece with Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, you can walk the most scenic locations & landscapes at the best value prices.

Besides the seashore, however, Sydney offers visitors a great selection of fun activities and unique experiences that can take up more than just one day. With the Great Barrier Reef nearby, people can do any number of adventure activities within the surrounding waters of the city. At the same time, trips to the Sydney Opera House as well as the centers for the 2000 Summer Olympic Games are at the top of most people’s travel plans.

Additionally, Darling Harbour has been at the top of every Sydney “to-do” list since its redevelopment from an old dock area. With museums, aquariums, zoos and a slew of restaurants, the area is a great place to see some of the wild side of Australia. Yet, when it comes to really seeing the city, seeing beyond the natural wonders and exotic wildlife that inhabit the land, there is no better way to spend a day than with a city view 134 meters above the sea, followed by a trip down memory lane.

As the must-do attraction in the city, the Sydney BridgeClimb is unlike any tourist activity in the world. With a selection of different climbing options, from the traditional 3.5-hour route to the shorter express adventure, guests take part in a fun filled and educational day scaling the Sydney Harbour Bridge while learning about its history and construction. Plus, with the stunning view of the area at the top, visitors are able to get that one specific picture that really captures all of the beauty and wonder that is Australia.

After ascending one of the most well known modern structures in the world, there is no better way to enhance the day than with a trip to Luna Park, a 1930s style amusement park that has been completely restored. With a great selection of rides, attractions, carnival food and a huge Ferris wheel, offering more breathtaking views of the harbour, the park is a great way to preview the historical side of Sydney. Also, with free entry into the park on a daily basis, there is really no reason not to take some time out of the afternoon or evening to check out more of the cultural and historical side of the city.

As a worldwide destination, Sydney really does have it all. Whether backpacking or vacationing with the family, valuable beach time and daily adventures are readily available. For a real taste of what makes Australia unique, however, it is necessary to get off the main tourist itinerary and check out all of the other opportunities to be had.

If you are planning to visit Sydney, visit us to find some great Sydney Accommodation. Find more information and pictures about Sydney here to help plan your trip.

1) Chamonix

A champion ski resort famed for its fresh powder and even fresher air. The drive to the resort is beautiful as you pass Mont Blanc on your way to this picturesque town. Chamonix has a death defying vertical drop which is passed over by the ski lift. The skiing here is good for all levels and there are 14 black runs for expert skiers to enjoy.

2) Morzine

Morzine may not be as big as Chamonix but it has an equally thriving pres ski scene and all sorts of restaurants and shops to keep skiers entertained. 27 ski lifts are in operation and with even green runs and a lot of intermediate ski runs this is a good place for those who are starting out to learn.

3) Morbier

In terms of convenience you can’t beat Morbier. Only a short drive away from Geneva international airport, it is perfectly possible to have a ski weekend at Morbier. With car hire Geneva it is usually a two hour transfer from the terminal to the ski slopes. Make sure you check the weather conditions before making it though. Morbier has variable snow.

4) La Clusaz

La Clusaz is possibly the most beautiful ski resort in Switzerland. Not only can you enjoy going off piste here but the region is famous for fine wines and cheeses so good food awaits at the end of each day.

5) Courmayeur

Although Courmayer is actually in Italy, it is close enough to Geneva that you can get there with car hire Geneva airport. One of the best ski resorts in the whole of Europe with varied runs and great facilities. Courmayeur is an impressive resort which has a ski lift at 2760 metres.

6) Flumet

Flumet combines the charm of small town Switzerland with amazing skiing. Flumet is better for beginners and intermediates than it is for experts but if you snowboard you will love it here. There are 32 green runs, 58 blue runs, 47 red runs and nine black runs.

7) Saint Jean de Sixt

As long as the driving conditions are passable you can be at Saint Jean de Sixt within an hour of arriving at Geneva airport. Buying a ski pass for this excellent resort will also allow you entry to La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand. The latter is a large resort which has plenty of nightclubs and good restaurants.

Combloux

Combloux has a huge variety of different of skiing opportunities available with more than 300 pistes there. There is no skiing prejudice here with a special snow park built for snowborders to enjoy too. In case the natural snow runs out there are also 82 snow cannons.

9) Chatel

One and a half hours away from Geneva airport, Chatel has one of the worlds’ biggest ski areas which is all linked by lifts. Enjoy more than 400 pistes which are served by over 200 ski lifts. There are also more than 30 miles of cross country skiing.

10) Les Gets

A mere hour’s drive from Geneva, Les Gets was the site of the world’s first French skiing school – Ecole du Ski Fran?ais in 1940. Since then it has grown into one of the world’s premier ski resorts, known as much for its stunning appearance as the quality of the pistes and facilities.

Robert Frische is the editorial manager for http://www.anyairportcarhire.com/. He drew the information for this article from various different sources including locals and the ski resort managers. Car hire Geneva is easy to book and prices start from 100 Euros weekly.

Zurich airport

This one terminal airport is located ten miles to the north of Zurich making car hire Switzerland a good way to get around, especially if you plan to go skiing. There are cheap skiing packages where you can get a sports utility vehicle such as the Toyota Rav 4 with snow tires and snow chains included in low weekly rates of 15 Euros per day. The rental car companies are located at car park two and they include all the well known multi-nationals such as Sixt, Hertz, Avis, National, Budget, Europcar and Alamo. Once you have collected your vehicle you can leave the airport on the A20 which connects you to most of the main cities in the country including Zurich itself, Basel and Berne. Zurich airport has three covered car parks but you will not need to make use of these if you plan on hiring a car.

Geneva airport

All the major car rental companies are here including Avis, Alamo, Budget, Europcar, National, Sixt, Citer, and Hertz. Geneva airport is located two and a half miles to the northwest of Geneva city centre and so having a car is a fast and effective way to get from the airport to the city. When you have arrived into the Swiss half of the airport (it also has a French side) you can take the N1 motorway and that will take you to almost anywhere that you want to go. Geneva airport has the international airport code GVA. Geneva city is a major financial and diplomatic centre of Switzerland and so there are many people looking for executive car hire. You can get prestige vehicles there at low prices if you look around.

Basel airport

Serving Switzerland’s third city Basel airport is an important international terminal. Basel is the only airport is the world to serve three different countries and it has links to France and Germany as well as Switzerland. When you come out of arrivals make sure you head towards the right part of the terminal for Switzerland. You can hire cars at Basel airport with major companies such as Budget, Europcar, Avis, Sixt, Hertz, and National as well as Autop?le and Citer.

Bern Airport

Bern Airport is known as Bern Belp International Airport. The terminal is just under four miles south of the city centre and your car hire company can rent you a global positioning system if you need some help making that journey. Although there are regular bus services from Bern Airport having a car gives you the freedom to get going whenever you want and there are luggage racks available so you don’t have to deal with the inconvenience of lugging it about. Car hire will certainly work out a lot cheaper than taking a taxi in the long run.

Robert Frishe wrote this piece as part of a series of travel articles about car hire Switzerland for http://www.anyairportcarhire.com/. He found that low cost rental cars made the trip to Switzerland that much cheaper.

1) Skiing at Zermatt

Zermatt is one of the most prestigious ski resorts in the Swiss Alps. People also come here in droves for high quality mountaineering. Located in the south of Switzerland near to the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a beautiful resort which has picturesque old wooden buildings in typical Swiss style. Tourists pay a lot of money to go skiing here but you can get cheap car hire Switzerland skiing packages which include your winter tyres and equipment racks. You will need a four by four vehicle to attempt going up the steep Pennine Alps.

2) More skiing at Davos

Davos is Switzerland’s largest ski resort and also the highest city in Europe. There are more than enough chair lifts and ski facilities to keep everyone happy as well as a thriving apres ski scene.

3) Bar hopping in Zurich

Zurich is a surprisingly lively city for those who come here with preconceptions of the boring Swiss. You can find almost any type of music including hip hop, rock, dub and funk in an array of well decorated and stylish bars and nightclubs. Amazingly Zurich has more clubs than any other city of its size in Europe. The Zuritipp is an online event calendar which can fill you in on all the latest gigs and performances which are taking place. District five of Zurich West is the where most of the clubs can be found. If you want a light snack to keep you going while you drink then have some of the famous Swiss fondue in any of these bars.

4) Get a great view at Lake Geneva.

Take the T?l?ph?rique du Saléve for simply stunning views across Lake Geneva and the mountains beyond. This cable cars leads to miles of walking trails and a local association, the association Genevoise des Amis du Saléve, organises hikes for anyone who is interested.

5) Go to carnival in Switzerland’s third city, Basel.

Basel is not only a gorgeous medieval town but it has a fantastic carnival. Why not rent a costume and join the locals as they celebrate? For those who want more moderate pastimes there are several fine art museums in Basel which is a highly cultured city.

6) Visit the capital Berne for a meal out.

Few people know that Berne is the capital of Switzerland and even fewer know how many good restaurants it has. Although it is expensive you can get fantastic Swiss as well as international cuisine.

7) Swim in Lake Zurich

One of Europe’s purest and freshest lakes, this is an ideal place to swim or go sailing during the summer. You will be among hundreds of Swiss families who take the time to enjoy the alpine delights. Coupled with a picnic or barbecue the experience is truly unforgettable.

Head for the world famous ski slopes in Valais by visiting Lausanne.

Knowing a little French in Lausanne will get you a long way and as long as you book your ski passes and car hire ahead of time you are sure to enjoy yourself. Lausanne has a large student population and an accordingly thriving nightlife.

9) Practice your Italian for a visit to Lugano

Lugano is the main Italian speaking part of Switzerland and is as pretty as anywhere else in the country. Set around a dazzling lake there are magnificent buildings and even palm trees to marvel at. Lugano is also close to Lake Como.

10) And finally more skiing at St Moritz

Experience the charm of Switzerland’s oldest ski resort. St Moritz is popular with skiers from all over Europe, not least because it has sunshine on almost every day of the year coupled with great powder.

Robert Frishe was asked to write this article for http://www.anyairportcarhire.com. Car hire Switzerland . need not cost a bomb and is a great way to see all the above attractions in this clean living and beautiful country.

About Geneva Airport Car Hire

Geneva airport is a very busy airport which has more than 11 million passengers. That makes it all the more necessary to prebook car hire so you don’t have to queue with everyone else who is waiting for a vehicle. Look out for the car hire offices of all the major companies such as Hertz, Avis and Sixt. Geneva airport has the longest airport runway in Switzerland. The airport serves both Switzerland and France so you want to make sure that you are disembarking on the right side. That way you do not have to waste time going through the wrong set of customs.As the airport is four kilometres to the North West of the city centre you will need some form of transportation. Tourists who are coming in tour groups will also find a large array of coaches waiting to collect them outside of the main terminal building. If you plan to take the bus in Geneva city centre there are free tickets which are valid for eighty minutes worth of travel. You can find them at a machine on your way out of customs. Geneva is a city built around a beautiful lake and a scenic travel option there is to take the intercity lake boats. The boats depart every 10 minutes to half and hour and are inexpensive. To be found on either the right or left bank of the city these boats operate all year around.

Geneva International Airport is situated at CH -1215 Geneva 15. Half of Geneva airport is located in the commune of Grand Saconnex and other half is in the commune of Meyrin. Add the area code 022 if you are outside of Switzerland. The main airlines to have hubs here are Flybaboo and Easyjet. Swiss International Airlines is one of the other forty airlines based there and you can fly to any of the major European cities including Paris, Rome and London. There are also some cargo flights with Farnair Switzerland to Cologne and Bonn as well as DHL Aviation to Brussels.

If you get stuck in Geneva airport due to bad weather or a delayed flight fear not. Geneva airport has some excellent shopping opportunities. To find Geneva airport on an international airport flight board look out for the airport code GVA. You can contact the airport ahead of time by phoning 717 7111.

Ronnie Seifert is a freelance writer who contributes to http://www.anyairportcarhire.com/. During his day job he works in the Swiss aviation industry. The car hire Geneva airport article is one of two pieces he has written about travel in Switzerland.