Best of Vacations

Most popular tourist experience in South East Asia

2015-04-14T15:19:00.004+02:00

With two amazing yachts in its fleet, Silolona Sojourns cruises are a very popular tourist experience from Indonesia. With them, you can discover new places in this archipelago and experience the unique traditions and culture of this part of the planet, while enjoying the most beautiful yachts you've ever seen. The two main ship of the company are called Silolona and Si Datu Bua, and both have beautiful design inspired by traditional Indonesian boats, known as Phinisi. Vintage design of these yachts is beautiful and brilliantly paired with uncompromising luxury that awaits you in the interior, modern comforts and all the amenities that guests could expect.

During these cruises, you can engage in a great number of fun activities, such as diving or swimming near some of the most beautiful reefs in the world, and there are sea kayaking, water skiing and fishing in the middle of the ocean. If sailing is your thing, you can relax in the shade of majestic sails of yachts and enjoy excellent meals prepared by professional chefs.

All in all, if you engage in this type of adventure, you will not regret it for one second and you will remember every part of this journey.

Silolona and Si Datu Bua are modern incarnations of those glorious traditional Indonesian sailing ships originally bred for trade along the historic Spice routes. Luxuriously melding all the safety and amenities of the 21st century with the style and grace of ages long past each was meticulously designed and hand crafted, specifically for the highly acclaimed Silolona Sojourns of Discovery.

info@silolona.com
phone +62 (0) 361 286 682

The most beautiful spring destinations in the world

2015-04-13T10:34:00.001+02:00

Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands

Come celebrate the breathtaking awakening of daffodils, tulips and hyacinths in the picturesque town of Lisse, just an hour by train from Amsterdam.

Known as one of the world's most beautiful gardens, the local Keukenhof boasts seven million blooms, stunning waterways, windmills and even a petting zoo for children.

Kanazawa, Japan

It's hard to know just when the cherry blossoms will bloom in Japan each year, but in Kanazawa in the Ishikawa region of Japan, it's traditionally during the first half of the month of April.

Because the winter is generally cooler in the area, compared to Tokyo and Kyoto, it takes a bit longer for the blooms to thaw.

The nearby Kenrokuen Garden, designated as a National Site of Historical Significance, is part of the Kanazawa Castle grounds and open the public free of charge for the two weeks surrounding the cherry blossom season.

Hallerbos, Belgium

For those looking to walk among the Belgian bluebells, it's a race against the clock.

Admirers flock to the Hallerbos, a forest in Flemish Brabant, Belgium, in hopes of spotting the flowers during their short stay each spring.

Making a sighting all the more tricky is that the flowers actually bloom at different times each year due to weather variations, although the website recommends a visit during the second half of April.

Caceres, Spain

Described as the 'most unspoiled medieval town' in Europe, the rolling plains of Caceres is never more beautiful than when in full springtime bloom.

Head to the province in Extremadura, which has recently been given World Heritage status, to take in the local cherry blossoms and wander among the fields of lavender.

And don't miss out on a visit to the Jerte valley, which is famed for its two million cherry trees.

Central Park, New York City

If you fancy a trip to the Big Apple, there's no better time than during the glorious springtime months.

In the summer, Manhattanites ditch the sweaty concrete jungle for reprieve in the Hamptons, but from April to June, bustling Central Park is the place to be for locals and newcomers alike.

Since first opening in the 1857, the park now sees more than 40 million visitors yearly, and while firmly entrenched on the tourist trail, there are plenty of places to explore off the beaten path.

Northumberland, England

Following a winter, rainy winter, the rolling hills of Northumberland begin to light up with the help of millions of vibrant, red poppies.

One of the most popular places to spot the flower is at the 'Poison Garden' exhibit at the Alnwick Gardens, the stunning outdoor complex adjacent to Alnwick Castle.

Generally, poppies reach full bloom in late spring and early summer, meaning there's plenty of time to book your escape to the countryside.

Savannah, Georgia

The American south provides the backdrop of every Nicholas Sparks film for a reason.

Whether it's the city's signature live oak trees draped with Spanish moss or the beautiful spring blooms popping up in Forsyth Park, visitors are never far from a lush springtime treat.

In fact, Savannah's gorgeous greenery has even earned it the nickname, 'the Forest City,' thanks in large part to the many species of oak trees in the area.

Washington, D.C.

For those who appreciate a bit of political commentary with their beautiful views, Washington D.C. is a must-visit this spring.

Take in the sights of the Smithsonian, the White House and the Washington Monument, all while experiencing the stunning cherry blossom trees lining the Potomac River.

And don't miss the city's famed National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo.

This year, the festival runs through April 12.

Hill Country, Texas

There's far more to the Lone Star State than simply delicious barbecue - though we do recommend a visit to The Salt Lick restaurant in nearby Driftwood - such as these impossibly beautiful springtime blooms.

They say that everything is bigger in Texas and the state's bluebonnets are no exception.

The Texas Hill Country is a 25 county region in the Central and Southern part of the state, encompassing the capital city of Austin, and is known for its limestone and granite rocks.

Cotswolds, England

Head to south central England in the spring for sightings of adorable baby lambs and vibrant wild daffodils, primroses and magnolias.

For those looking for the area's signature snowdrops, consider a trip to the Painswick Rococo Garden, set in a hidden Cotswold valley with stunning countryside views.

If you prefer bluebells, there are plenty of wooded areas blanketed with the popular flower in the region.

Largest Suites in Hawaii

2015-04-12T22:35:00.001+02:00

Guests staying in the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea’s 16 residential and oceanfront suites can now enjoy the new Complete Suite Experience. For the ultimate experience, guests can opt for either of the property’s two three-bedroom suites, Lokelani and Maile ($17,500 per night). The two largest suites in Hawaii, both were gutted last year and completely renovated. Among Maui’s most magnificent accommodations, the Lokelani presidential suite offers 6,800 square feet of indoor and outdoor living space; and the penthouse-level Maile offers 4,750 square feet of space overlooking Wailea Beach.

The three-bedroom Maile Suite is sophisticated and stylish, accented by dashes of bright colour, allowing the azure Pacific Ocean to take the lead. Guests enter into large and spacious living and dining rooms with a panoramic 180 degree view of the ocean. Framing the entry is a floor-to-ceiling screen of colourful geodes reflecting warm hues onto the stunning teak wood floors. “Fast becoming a signature element of the Maile, the interplay of refracted light against buttery wood tones changes the look and feel of the suite throughout the day,” notes Wietzel. Understated grass cloth wall coverings complete the island ambiance. But the understatedness stops here. Soft goods are fresh and introduce a sophisticated tropical palette. In addition to the bespoke furnishings, there is a service kitchen, fully integrated Sonos sound system, and a sauna and dressing room adjacent to the opulent master bedroom.

The three-bedroom Lokelani suite, deriving its name from the Hawaiian word for “heavenly rose,” features a large private outdoor living space, furnished with sunning, lounging, exercising and dining areas and by two fire pit lounges with seating for up to 16 persons. The BraytonHughes team has skillfully arranged spaces to be enjoyed according to the time of the day – open air, under the night sky, and beneath an extensive hand-crafted pergola. A completely new private garden entry invites guests into the Lokelani. The suite décor is a fresh take on mid-century, with turquoise and orange splashes of colour dancing off white furnishings. A dramatic circular tub is the centrepiece of the luxurious master bathroom. All in all, the suite achieves a refreshing feel of indoor/outdoor elegance with vivid art juxtaposed with creative and selected armoires, tables, lighting fixtures and other one-of-a-kind pieces. A game room and kitchenette are also included.

Luxury Bahamas golf resort

2015-04-10T22:38:00.002+02:00

Golfers have a new reason to visit the Bahamas, when the much-anticipated TPC at Baha Mar golf course offers its inaugural tee time. The 7,189-yard Jack Nicklaus–designed course is the centerpiece of the new Baha Mar luxury resort, occupying 1,000 acres of enviable real estate along Nassau’s Cable Beach.
The par-72 course not only provides splendid scenery and exciting game play—with a front nine punctuated by dramatic ocean vistas and creative water features and a back nine that meanders through native inland forest— it also serves as a nature preserve, with habitats for terrapins, bats, and more than 70 bird species.

The highlight of any game here is the signature 16th hole. The approach to the island green along Lake Cunningham will be a challenge for even the most experienced golfers, but players of all levels can find tees to match their skills. The course also features a practice range, putting areas, and a golf academy with lessons from PGA professionals, allowing guests to hone their technique. After a rousing game, guests can take refreshments in the colonial-style Royal Blue Golf Clubhouse, which offers a bar and grill, changing areas, and a pro shop. (bahamar.com)

New, exclusive residential project in Florida

2015-04-09T23:01:00.001+02:00

Fendi Chateau residences

And now, we have information that half of the apartments in this luxury building are already sold out. But if you want to live at this apartment in a building with 58 residential units and the best possible view of the Pacific Ocean, you still have time.

1 penthouse has four bedrooms, eight bathrooms, roof terrace and private pool. This corner residence with almost 800 m2 has about 200 m2 terrace that runs the length of the entire penthouse with unobstructed views of the ocean. In addition to the high ceilings, separate quarters for staff and outdoors kitchen, this penthouse has a private elevator and a marble bathroom. It can be yours for the price of 25 million dollars.

If you think it's too expensive, we’ll remind you one more time of communities’ luxurious amenities of the building - a private restaurant, lodge with gourmet kitchen, library, business center, ballroom, private cinema and a gym. The tenants of this building have access to a five-star services, such as 24-hour concierge service and parking service.

Picturesque Destination in Vietnam

2015-04-08T19:05:00.001+02:00

Magnificent Salinda Phu Quoc Island Resort & Spa is what you get as a result of investments of $ 35 million in a picturesque destination in Vietnam. The natural setting of the site imposes you an objective - creating the environment for a memorable, very luxurious experience for visitors around the world. This resort is located on the banks of Qouc Phu, Vietnam's largest island, which is certainly in the top of the list of the most beautiful. The ideal nature of this place is reflected in the amazing beaches, surrounded by crystal clear water, refined natural landscapes in which passengers enjoy.

The resort consists of 121 richly decorated rooms and villas, where each space is maximally comfortable and well equipped. It is an ideal location where guests can enjoy a sophisticated natural environment, including the beach. All of this is interwoven with a bit rustic and peaceful ambience vibration environment.

And then, there is Salinda Spa - a true oasis of relaxation, where guests can enjoy a wide range of holistic treatments and traditional techniques and rejuvenating treatment, which originate from the famous Thai and Vietnamese history. Finally, a little different, but equally enjoyable experience, guests can enjoy Salinda restaurant, where the finest Vietnamese and international cuisine is served.

Beautiful natural wonder of our planet

2015-04-07T21:58:00.000+02:00

We have confirmed the fact that the beauty of nature can be magnificent several times already. This time we present you a beautiful natural wonder of our planet, which is located in Slovenia. It is Lake Bohinj. It is the largest permanent natural lake in Slovenia and from 1981 was incorporated into the Triglav National Park.

Its natural beauty is truly mesmerizing - landscapes that surround take the breath away even from those most stringent critics of art and works of art with ease. Here we can see that the nature is the most powerful force which exists. The main tributary of the lake is the river Savica, and its length is 4,350 m. The width of the lakes at its widest point is 1,250 m, while it is 45 m deep.

Coast which is the ideal place to enjoy the beauty of this scene is long 10,900 meters, so we do not doubt that you will be able to find the perfect location for relaxing, introspection and romantic moments. On the shore of the lake, everything is possible.

The origin of this lake is ice-tectonic. It is a lot less popular than the famous Lake Bled which means that its coast is less crowded. Therefore, you have more opportunities to enjoy your thoughts and fantasies. Daydreaming on the shores of this lake is a phenomenal experience - a beauty that is interwoven into this space will carry you into a whole new world of your imagination with ease.

Lake Bohinj is oriented in an east-west direction, which means that at any time you have the perfect lighting that contributes to the charm and beauty of the whole environment. The mountains that surround it are very powerful and grandiose, and create the most amazing reflections in its crystal clear water. In the vicinity of the lake, there is a church that dates from the 14th century, which exudes sophistication and mysticism. The beauty of simplicity in this region of the planet is something that adorns the soul of all visitors. In any case, check it for yourself...

Photo: Gregor Skoberne

Abaco Islands - The Sailing Capital of the World

2012-01-08T14:21:00.000+01:00

The little known Abaco Islands in the Bahamas are simply a dream come true, passed, by the ravages of time and progress. Known as "The Sailing Capital of the World," The Abacos' number one activity is boating and sailing. Marinas here see the height of activity spring and autumn. But don't rule out the excellent fishing, diving, snorkeling, water sports, and, of course, cultural attractions that round out The Abacos holiday experience all year long. The 18th century saw the first settlers to the Abaco islands by pro-British colonists fleeing the US after the War of Independence ended in 1776. The first settlement was at Carleton, near what is now the major centre of Treasure Cay. Today the Abacos are vibrant. With excellent boating, fishing and scuba diving, The Abacos rank high among the tourist destinations in the Out Islands.

Abaco is the third most populous island in The Bahamas and bears a resemblance to New England from which it attracts so many of its visitors and winter residents. Marsh Harbour is the commercial centre located on Great Abaco. The first settlement on Abaco Was Carleton Point, located at the northern end of Treasure Cay a luxury resort development. Carleton was settled in 1783 by 600 Loyalists refugees from New York, fleeing the newly independent United States.

France - Saint Martin de Re

2012-01-08T10:27:00.000+01:00

England - Once upon a time

2012-01-06T14:49:00.000+01:00

Getaway to the Aloha state!

2012-01-05T19:25:00.000+01:00

The fresh, floral air energizes you. The warm, tranquil waters refresh you. The breathtaking, natural beauty renews you. Look around. There’s no place on earth like Hawaii. Whether you're a new visitor or returning, Hawaii's six unique islands offer distinct experiences that will entice any traveler.

Lanikai Beach

Love Sugar Beach

Kaanapali Beach!

Wailea Beach

Kamole sunset

Sheraton Bugambilias of Puerto Vallarta

2012-01-03T22:06:00.000+01:00

Natural Beauty, Sandy Beaches, Friendliest people in the World, Jungle and Waterfalls. This and so much more is Puerto Vallarta. Puerto Vallarta is wandering in the downtown neighborhood and the seaside walk "Malecon" in the downtown neighborhood, cobblestone streets, friendly people and world-class galleries, brand name shops, clubs and international fine cuisine restaurants; The Guadalupe church, a cathedral topped by a filigreed crown is a trade mark of our town, that rises across the street from the main square, The Cuale river which retains its virgin and lush touch and invites you to scout the Zona Romantica neighborhood with local businesses and cafes in the sidewalks, beach restaurants, cocktail bars, and breathtaking sunsets just walking distance from the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort & Convention Center.

With just over 8 restaurants and bars to choose from on site.

Exclusive ambiance, an atmosphere of leisure and entertainment. Contemporary Mexican setting - perfect to enjoy cocktails and great food in an indoor air-conditioned soft lighted atmosphere – guests can dance the night away to the sounds of Cuban Salsa, Reggae, Jazz, and Rock as they sample specialty dishes from all over the world and generous drinks. Tequila lovers will be able to choose from over 50 brands of the renowned spirit.

Activities
• Yoga morning class
• Beach walking
• Stretching classes
• Jogging at the stadium (across from the hotel)
• Aqua aerobics
• Beach volley ball
• Wáter volley ball
• Pool contests
• Mini Olympics games
• Spanish lessons
• Dancing classes
• Backgammon
• Domino
• Tennis tournament
• Ping pong
• Botanic tour thru our lush gardens
• Spa therapy
• Gym work out

On the Moon, Please.

2012-01-03T00:38:00.000+01:00

Night Mood, Because the night

Prangins - Switzerland

Marisa D.L.

Prangins - Switzerland

Top 5 disappearing places

2012-01-02T16:43:00.000+01:00

The U.S. landscape is home to many unique natural formations that took thousands and thousands of years to develop, but as our population -- and need for more space -- grows, there's a risk some may be lost to future generations. For your next trip, consider these Top 5 disappearing places and enjoy them before they disappear.

1) The Glaciers of Glacier National Park, Montana: In addition to namesake glaciers, the park is also home to bears, gray wolves, golden eagles and lynx. It also features more than 740 miles of trails, so don't forget your hiking boats. In 1850, this national park boasted 150 giant glaciers; today, only 27 remain. By 2030, even those may be gone.

2) Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings, Colorado: Pueblo Indians built these 600 cliff dwellings hundreds of years ago, carving them into the sheer sandstone walls. The well-preserved structures range from one-room dwellings to a 150-room "palace." Despite its remote location, pollution, invasive plant species and runoff are just a few of the environmental issues that the park is battling.

3) Coral Reefs of Biscayne National Park, South Florida: These delicate reefs, the only living coral feel in the U.S., are must for avid divers, snorkelers and boaters; the park also features an underwater "trail" that allows visitors to explore various shipwrecks within the park. However, the reef's popularity is also contributing to its disappearance: Some of the coral has declined by 90%, partly due to overfishing.

4) Sunset Cliffs, San Diego, California: These rugged cliffs run along the Southern California coast, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It's popular area with surfers, whale watchers and weddings. The sandstone bluffs, which feature arches and sea caves, are slowly being eaten away by runoff from developments and irrigation.

5) The Everglades, Florida: The Everglades is the "largest subtropical wilderness" in the country, but because of human encroachment, rare animals are losing their homes. The national park covers about 1.5 million acres and provides all sorts of outdoorsy adventures: camping, kayaking, boating, hiking and bird watching, to name a few.

Happy New Years from London

2012-01-01T20:59:00.000+01:00

Happy New Years

2012-01-01T10:48:00.000+01:00

Best ski resorts - Madonna di campiglio

2011-12-31T00:11:00.000+01:00

Find the Best ski resorts - Kopaonik

2011-12-30T00:38:00.000+01:00

Best picture reflections

2011-12-29T22:59:00.001+01:00

Celebrate New Year's in Belgrade

2011-12-28T17:57:00.002+01:00

31 December: New Year's Celebration

Organised celebration on the main city squares and streets, with live music and fireworks. All restaurants and discos prepare special programmes. Due to a great number of foreign visitors, it is best to book a hotel room at least one month before the holidays.

Belgrade has a great heart which is open every year to those who are the most in need of love, attention, but also money. This year money will be raised for the city of Kraljevo, which was damaged by earthquake this year. On January 1st, from noon to early evening, in Makedonska and Svetogorska streets, actors and musicians, acrobats and singers offer a rich humanitarian programme. The manifestation "Street of Open Hearts" has been organised since 1988, when actors from nearby Atelje 212 Theatre wanted to cook food at the Serbian Café and to serve it to all those who had served them during the other days of the year.

Halkidiki, Kassandra Bay - Toronaeos

2011-12-27T18:31:00.000+01:00

TGV, the Train a Grande Vitesse

2011-12-26T23:02:00.000+01:00

TGV, the ‘Train à Grande Vitesse’ is the fastest way to travel to more than 1400 destinations in Europe. With record-breaking speeds of up to 320 km/h, whether your destination is on the other side of France or beyond the borders you’ll reach it in just a few hours, and with magnificent views of the French countryside.
The electric, high-speed TGV, operated by SNCF, transports over 130 million passengers to their destinations every year. The total number since the service began in 1981 is expected to reach 2 billion in 2010, second only to Japan’s Shinkansen train. France is, quite rightly, very proud of its bullet train service!

The TGV network

Within France TGV trains connect 150 major cities and towns. Example train durations are given below:

Popular journeys
Journey	Travel time
Paris – Reims	0 h 45
Paris – Nantes	2 h 01
Paris – Strasbourg	2 h 20
Paris – Avignon	2 h 40
Lille – Lyon	2 h 55
Paris – Bordeaux	3 h 00
Paris CDG – Marseille	3 h 34

TGV trains also connect France with Belgium, Switzerland and Germany where you can continue your journey with other European high-speed services and rail networks.

The stations
Many of the TGV stations are architecturally outstanding; if you have time go outside and take a look at the exteriors. The Gare du Nord, Milano Centrale and Amsterdam Centraal are just a few of the network highlights.
Check-in & boarding
All TGV train journeys must be reserved beforehand, most tickets are available up to 60 days previously, or they can be reserved in the station before you board.
Make sure to validate your ticket using the yellow stamp machines, or composteurs, on the platforms before you board the train.
There are usually two steps up to the carriage so make sure you can lift your luggage, or find a friendly passenger to help.

Travel in style aboard TGV trains
Fashion king Christian Lacroix designed the interiors of the newest TGV trains, so expect to be impressed.
Suddenly you see!
On some routes, the double-decker TGV Duplex trains offer an even better view of the passing countryside whilst at high speed.
Aboard TGV trains, comfort is not a legend
With the TGV, only the train goes at high speed: you travel in peace and quiet with your family and benefit from the comfort of large seats and all of the services onboard. Upgrade to First class!

Paris CDG – Brussels	1h 14
Avignon – Geneva	2h 53
Paris – Stutgart	3h 40

Where to go - Majorca holidays

2011-12-25T21:15:00.001+01:00

Search for Majorca holidays and book online with confidence with The Co-operative Travel. Majorca is the largest of the Mediterranean Balearic Islands and one of the most popular destinations for all sorts of UK holidaymakers. Families, especially those with small children, are well catered for as are singles and couples of all ages on Majorca holidays.
Package holidays to Majorca have been around almost as long as the travel industry and the island has welcomed tourists for well over 50 years; its continuing popularity is testament to its universal appeal. The traditional triple attractions of sun, sand and sangria certainly help along with modern additions such as fantastic, well-equipped hotels and water parks.

Moving And Living In Spain

Everything You Need To Know About Moving And Living In Spain. From Property Buying, Health Care, Immigration,permits,tax,language,finding Work. Click Here!

Top Rated Hotels - Mauna Kea Beach

2011-12-25T12:24:00.000+01:00

Hawaii, Big Island, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

Founded by Laurance S. Rockefeller in 1965, The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is a landmark of luxury on the Big Island's sunny Kohala Coast. Following $150 million in recent repairs and renovation, The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel features exceptional restaurants, the legendary Mauna Kea championship golf course, gracious guestrooms, and a timeless tradition of aloha. Set along the natural white sand of beautiful Kauna'oa Beach, this is Hawaii at its finest.

62-100 Mauna Kea Kohala Coast, HI 96743

Directions:
Directions from Keahole-Kona International Airport (KOA) to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel:

As you leave the Airport, turn left onto Queen Kaahumanu Highway 19, heading toward Kawaihae. Drive north about 27 miles, approximately 30 minutes. Half-way point: after about 15 minutes you will come to a stoplight (near the Waikoloa Resort area), from this point you are half way there. 2-mile landmark: look for the signs for the small town of Puako (from this turn off you are about 2 miles from the hotel entrance). 1-mile landmark: You'll pass the state highway sign for Hapuna Beach State Park, go over the overpass and look for the entrance to Mauna Kea Beach Hotel approximately one mile past this mark. On the left side of the highway, you'll see a lava rock wall with "Mauna Kea" on the side. As you turn into the driveway, you'll approach our gatehouse and our staff will direct you to the hotel.

Transportation:
Airport Transfer
Car Rental
Taxi

Where To Go: Bulgaria - Bansko

2011-12-25T12:08:00.000+01:00

Where To Go: Bulgaria - Bansko: Bansko is Bulgaria's # 1 ski resort, having the best and most modern ski centre of all Bulgarian ski resorts. During the recent years a mult...