Faraway Vacation Blog

Best Time To Visit Tuscany

During my visits to Africa I began taking an interest in the languages that are spoken across the continent and picked up ones that most appealed to me. These include Swahili and Yoruba that are spoken primarily in Kenya and Nigeria respectively.

Delectable Cuisine

African cuisine is differently flavored yet wholesome and delicious. Ingredients used in African cooking are a special blend of what is locally available. The dishes are unimaginably delicious and novel because they cannot be found at a neighborhood joint. I particularly enjoy Kenyan cuisine and my favorite dishes are Ugali stew, Egusi soup and pounded yam.

Wonderful People

While in Africa I mingled mainly with people from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Egypt and South Africa. I found them all to be modern, yet rooted to their customs and way of life.

They are a happy lot who celebrate life. Music and dance is part of their life. They are excellent dancers; light on their feet with a characteristic rhythm in their bodies. Try as hard as I did I could not master the flexibility, rhythm and ease with which they move to music. To my astonishment toddlers who can barely walk know how to dance. Is that not wonderful!

What I love most about the people of Africa is that I see no discrimination and they accepted me as one of their own. They welcomed me into their homes and lives without fearing how I would react to their lifestyle. Most people across Africa will go out of their way to flaunt their culture, help you out and show that they care.

Melting Pot of Diversity

Another thing that got my attention and remains part of my unforgettable memories of Africa is the vibrant culture. The world has become a melting pot of many races, religions and communities. Visitors to Africa may not notice this immediately, but while living there cultural diversities become obvious.

Among native population, there are people with immense wealth and people living below poverty line, people who have adapted to modern times and people who still haven't progressed, people with a lot of historical heritage and those who have recently emerged. Irrespective of the country Africans hail from, the diversity they bring along and their unconditional acceptance of each other is a far cry from what I have seen in other parts of the world.

Paradise for Animal Lovers

Any travel to Africa is incomplete without experiencing its amazing wildlife. I am a wildlife enthusiast and of course that is one of the major reasons why I love Africa. The continent boasts of unending stretches of open plains, rain-forests and waterfalls, and a plethora of animals and birds. It is amazing to see how closely wildlife is linked to the everyday life of the common people.

Appealing Art

I love African music and art as well, because they are unlike anything I have witnessed. African war and tribal masks, casts and sculptures are now commercialized and popular in the west but in Africa they have been around for centuries. Over the years I acquired a fondness for the traditional prints, clothing and accessories distinctive to Africa. The vivid colors they use are vibrant and add a touch of glamour to any outfit.

Synopsis

Agreed, it can be a challenge to live in some parts of Africa, but I like these challenges. I look at them as learning experiences that actually draw me closer to the lovely continent.

Top Ten Vacation Destinations In Italy Part 2

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 15:36:52 -0600

Welcome back to Part 2 in this two part series on the Top Ten Vacation Destinations In Italy

In Part 1 we visited Rome--the capital of Italy,Florence, Venice,Positano and Naples today we continue to explore other great spots in Italy.

6) Siena is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a city in Tuscany, Italy. It is one of the country's most visited tourist locations but is most famous for the Palio. Palio is a horseback race that is held twice a year--in July and August. It is considered to be infamous and dangerous with bareback riders racing on cobblestones. Aside from the Palio, Siena is also famous for its art, museums, and cuisine. Its main sights, the Sienna Cathedral and the Piazza del Campo will make visitors feel like they were transported to the Middle Ages.

7) San Gimignano is a small town in the province of Siena that is famous for its well kept towers. Perfect for vacationers who value history and architecture, it is also called The Town of the Towers. The town is also enclosed by a wall that makes visitors feel like they're inside an enclosed city. The location boasts of fine examples of Roman and Gothic architecture and is also known for its famous white wine. The wine is derived from the Vernaccia grape which grows on the hillsides of San Gimignano.

8) Taormina is a popular vacation location on the east coast of Sicily. It is perched on a cliff and overlooks the Ionian Sea. It boasts of many old churches, popular beaches, fine restaurants, and countless antique shops. Its main sights include the Corvaja Palace and the Ancient Theater that still holds performances and concerts today.

Top Destinations In Italy | Tour Italy

9) Riccione is said to have beaches that are a beautiful as the people who sunbathe on its shores. A popular main summer destination in Italy, it attracts droves of young people due to its active and lively nightlife. The Riviera Romagnola boasts of many discos catering to this market. But Riccione is also ideal for families with children since this municipality in Northern Italy also has several theme parks. The Playa del Sol is a top destination for it being one of the best beach villages. Many aqua parks, beach resorts, and aquatic shows are available for the entire family.

10) And the last on the list is Selva di Val Gardena--a luxurious ski vacation destination in Italy. It is located on the foot of two mountains--the Sella Group and the Langkofel and they loom over luxurious ski resorts, hotels and bed and breakfasts. The location is perfect for mountain and ski enthusiasts. Aside from these, the location also boasts of ruined castles, churches and bars. It's the perfect destination for a luxurious and activity filled vacation.

There are many other worthwhile vacation destinations in Italy and you can choose from a wide variety of themes--from the Alps, to historical sites, to art museums, and beaches--the nation definitely has everything you need to have that luxurious and indulgent vacation.

Go have a fantastic time in Italy and return home with many great holiday memories.

Tropical Wedding

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 23:55:21 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Andrew Prince Come discover the Island of St Lucia.

Affordable Beach Weddings

Best Destination Weddings

Weddings in the Caribbean

Top Ten Vacation Destinations In Italy

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 06:11:01 -0600

In this two Part series on Top Ten Vacation Destinations in Italy, we will discover some of the places and attractions of this country along with a few things you must add on your list of ‘unique’ Itlian experiences.

Italy is a luxury vacation destination for the individual, couple, group or family that values history, architecture, the arts, music, theatre, and cuisine. Aside from many Hollywood movies portraying the country in its magnificent splendour, it boasts of the most number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the entire world. Italy is beautiful, versatile, full of passion, and inspires the soul and stirs the mind. Here are the top ten vacation destinations in Italy for those memorable vacation holidays.

1) First on the list is definitely Rome--the capital of Italy. Rome is the most popular tourist location in Italy, with million of visitors each year. It has mind blowing art, incredible historical sites, fantastic food, and is an important musical centre in the country. The main sights of the city include the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon. The Colosseum is the historical site of the famous gladiator fights and is a great testament of Roman engineering. The Trevi Fountain is Rome's most famous fountain and is a great focal point for people watching. It is said that whoever throws a coin into the fountain will eventually come back and visit Rome.

Italian Vacations | Top Vacation Destinations

Southern Italy Tours

2) The second top vacation location in Italy is Florence. It is the capital of the Italian region of Tuscany and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Forbes named the city as the most beautiful city in the world. It serves as a great inspiration to artists and poets who've made their works of art by being inspired by the city. It is also believed to have the greatest concentration of art in the entire world. Famous sights of Florence include Michaelangelo's Statue of David, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, and the Basilica di San Miniato al Monte--a religious site on a hill just outside of Florence with magnificent overlooking views of the city.

3) A great place for honeymooners and couples, Venice is one of the most alluring cities in the world. The city is separated by canals and bridges and is one of the most important tourists destinations, not only in Italy but in the world, attested by its more than 50,000 visitors each day. Couples will find gondola rides on the canals as absolutely romantic, with its perfect line of Renaissance architecture. Famous sights include the Palazzo Ducale, a perfect example of Gothic masterpiece, and the Musica A Palazzo, with nightly Opera shows. Each year, Hollywood stars light the city during the Venice Film Festival.

Vacation Destinations | Italian Vacations

4) For those who want a peaceful and relaxing vacation, Positano is the perfect Italian destination. It is located in Campania, Italy, and is most famous for it being a sophisticated resort at the center of the Amalfi coast. During the 1950's, famous author John Steinbeck wrote an article about the location, praising it for its beauty. Soon after, Positano attracted droves of tourists and many poets and songwriters have written their works of art in cafes that overlooked the sea waters. Famous sights include the Footpaths of the Gods, with breathtaking picturesque views of the village, and the Spiaggia del Fornillo-a fashionable beach resort area. Positano also has charming boutiques that cater to the tourist who love collecting local artistry and fashion.

5) Amalfi is a municipality in the province of Salerno, just southeast of Naples, whose trademark is its popular lemon stands along the coast. British upper class in the twenties and thirties made Amalfi a popular holiday destination and it has remained such ever since. Its must see sights include the Museum of Handmade Paper and the Gothic architecture of St. Andrews Cathedral.

Best Places To Travel In Greece

Join us in part two (2) as we conclude our ten Vacation Destinations In Italy

St Lucia Holidays

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 05:57:36 -0600

St Lucia Holidays - Villa Capri one of best holiday home is St Lucia equip with nine-air-conditioned,sea view guest rooms,
all with en-suite facilities and cable TV.

Check out our YouTube Video Series on the best spots when planning your St Lucia Trip

St Lucia
Trip

Vacation In
St Lucia

Weddings in the Caribbean

Hockey Hall of Fame

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 13:26:11 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The Famous Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame. A national treasure
in the heart of downtown Toronto, Canada.A must see destination for any sports enthusiast.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Discover
Toronto

St Lucia Villas

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 10:20:04 -0600

Check out our YouTube Video Series on the best spots when planning your St Lucia Trip

St Lucia
Trip

Vacation In
St Lucia

Weddings in the Caribbean

Museum of Civilization Ottawa

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 04:39:47 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Museum of Civilization Ottawa Canada.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

What to do in Toronto

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 08:48:26 -0600

What to do in Toronto - A dance crew performs in Dundas square hyping up the Grey Cup. Dundas square,
in the heart of downtown Toronto, is a popular location for events, promotions, and a variety of seasonal displays.

Discover
Toronto

Canada Wonderland

Travel to
Toronto

Peek-A-Boo

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 10:25:16 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A curious chipmunk played peek-a-boo with a me as I snapped photos
of him. Taken near Ottawa,Ontario Canada.

Vacation In
Ottawa

Lansdowne Park Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

St Lucia Honeymoon

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 17:00:47 -0600

Check out our YouTube Video Series on the best spots when planning your St LuciaTrip

Affordable Beach Weddings

Vacation In
St Lucia

Weddings in the Caribbean

Best Tropical Vacation Spots

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:38:01 -0600

Check out our YouTube Video Series on the best spots when planning your St LuciaTrip

Affordable Beach Weddings

Vacation In
St Lucia

Weddings in the Caribbean

Firemans Prayer

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 10:47:22 -0600

Firefighters
Prayer

Lest We
Forget

Remembrance
Day Poems

Colours of Christmas

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 01:32:17 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell -Colours of Christmas - The vivid colours and detail of the Christmas
displays capture the attention of almost every person who passes by. Photo taken in Toronto, Canada.

Cavalcade of Lights
Toronto

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Christmas In The City

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 01:41:26 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Christmas In The City - Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted
Police (RCMP) take part in Toronto Canada's Santa Clause Parade.

Toronto Santa
Parade

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Toronto Santa Parade

Sun, 16 Dec 2012 03:04:44 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Mrs. Clause makes an appearance on a float in Toronto's
Santa Clause Parade in Canada.

Cavalcade of Lights
Toronto

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Holidays in Laganas: Our Top 3 Activities

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 03:30:19 -0600

Holidays in Laganas: Our Top 3 Activities

Laganas is a beautiful resort located on the island of Zakynthos in the Ionian Islands of Greece. This busy tourist spot has loads to offer anyone coming for a visit with a great selection of bars, restaurants and beaches. It’s a holiday hotspot for Club 18-30 party goers, but there’s also some great family fun to be had. We have here for you the top three things do to on your visit.

1) Laganas Beach

Located about 6km from the airport Laganas beach is the top attraction for visiting holidaymakers. It’s easy to get to on the roads; though we’d recommend leaving the car at your hotel as parking is limited. You can walk easily from the adjoining beach resorts of Kalamaki and Aghios Sostis.

There are thousands of sunbeds so no one has to do without and the water is safe for kids, staying shallow for a long wade off the shore. You can hire canoes and pedalos at the marine park, though other water sports are not permitted. If you’re lucky enough, you may be treated to an appearance from some of the local wildlife in the shape of the world famous Caretta turtles, who live on the neighbouring island of Marathonisi, which is, ironically, shaped like a turtle.

Greek Holidays | Laganas Holidays

2) Top Clubs

The main draw of Laganas for British tourists comes from the thrilling nightlife on offer. There are hundreds of bars and clubs with almost non-stop entertainment on offer. For example Rescue bar in the heart of the resort, which plays host to up to 1500 people on any given night. Voted as the number 1 club by visitors for the past seven years, there are some great drinks deals on offer and music to keep you dancing all night long. Alternatively you might like to try Wakiki club, situated just off the main strip of Laganas beach. If you’re into urban music and R’n’B you’ll fit right in here. There are some fantastic drinks offers and it’s open every night ‘til the early hours.

Check out our YouTube Video Series on Greek Holidays .

3) Shopping

If you’re looking for a break from partying and sunbathing, Laganas has plenty of shops to keep you busy. With everything from big supermarkets to souvenir shops, you can certainly make a day of searching for a special something to take home. If you’re a fan of the turtles mentioned above, you’ll be hard pressed not to find a commemorative trinket adorned with a turtle of some sort!

Make a Holidays in Laganas your next dream location,sure to fill your heart's desire.

Santa Clause Parade

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 03:30:07 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) take
part in Toronto Canada's Santa Clause Parade.

Toronto Santa
Parade

Christmas In
The City

Travel to
Toronto

Romantic Walk

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 05:48:24 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Romantic Walk - Flowing streams create a sense of calmness
and offer great opportunities for reflections both photographically and personally.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

Top 5 Wedding Venues In Singapore

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 04:37:25 -0600

Top 5 Wedding Venues In Singapore

Everyone aspires to have an extravagant wedding filled with lights, flowers, music and colors. Singapore can literally make your dream come. It provides ample number of venue options ranging from Museums, gardens, hotels to even beaches where you can organize a wedding of your choice.

Singapore Wedding Venues

Wedding Planning Tips

Though this Lion city has limited area but it has been fully utilized by the Singaporeans in the form of well managed parks, beautiful beaches and lush greenery. So, if you are planning to get married in Singapore then you have made a brilliant choice. Here is a list of the top 5 venues that would totally stand up and make your dream wedding come true:

Jurong Bird Park : If you aspire to get married amidst the natural beauty and scenic Landscapes then this is a perfect venue for you. Located on the top of Jurong Hill, this place has 11 indoor and outdoor venues which can be hired to host a Wedding, engagement party, get-together etc. The indoor halls are covered with beautiful glass windows which give a beautiful view of the city. If you are planning to get married in summers then it is recommended to opt for indoor venue as the sun would be in its full prime and excessive heat might make you uncomfortable while if you are planning to get married in winters then outdoors is the best choice.

Marina Bay Sands: It might be an expensive option but when compared with the number of facilities that are provided, it’s worth every penny. Being one of the most famous and largest hotels in Singapore, it has 12 venues overlooking the Beautiful Singapore city. In addition, this hotel has one of the best caterers in Singapore and so you do not have to worry about hiring and managing them separately.

Villa Halia(Botanical Garden): A wedding amidst different kind of beautiful flowers is a dream of every girl. And the botanical garden in Singapore provides many such beautiful wedding venues. You can select any suitable location within the Garden and get married.

Singapore Wedding | Getting Married In Singapore

Weddings in the Caribbean

Amara Sanctuary Resort: This place provides with multiple number of weddings Packages which include venue, catering, decoration etc. All you need to do is select a package and the professional wedding planner will take care of every detail to bring your dream wedding alive. Located on the Sentosa Island, this Place has a multiple number of parks, beaches, etc which can keep your guests entertained pre-wedding.

The Jewel Park: This destination will provide you with 6 different wedding packages comprising of modern, contemporary, outdoor romantic etc. Being a lone hill top Wedding destination, it give a mesmerizing sky view of the Singapore city and make you feel like you are getting married in Heaven. This is one the most sought after wedding venue in Singapore and so you need to make the bookings at least 6 Months in advance.

In addition to all the above mentioned venues, you can also get married on the beach which might prove to be a lot cheaper and exotic. You need to get a Singapore Holiday Pass from Singapore visa embassy in order to travel or marry in Singapore. All the guests that you plan to invite would also need one. So make sure to complete all such paper works well in advance.

Singapore Wedding | Getting Married In Singapore

Weddings In The Caribbean

Author Bio : Peter Lee is a consultant associated with one-visa.com. He is a travel buff and an avid blogger, who likes to study the work and business cultures of different places.

Top European Destinations

Ottawa Landmarks

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 02:00:24 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The Fairmont Chateau Laurier is a landmark hotel located beside
the Parliament buildings. It is said to be haunted by the ghost of Charles Melville Hays who commissioned the
building. Hays drowned in the wreck of the Titanic.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

Lansdowne Park Ottawa

Sun, 02 Dec 2012 05:46:25 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Ottawa's Lansdowne park is currently undergoing
redevelopment, scheduled for completion in 2015.

Vacation In
Ottawa

Attractions Near Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

African Holiday

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 11:30:01 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski

Rwanda Travel

Vacation to Africa

I Left My Heart ..

10 Things You Have To Do In Prague Before You Leave

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 09:14:16 -0600

10 Things You have to do in Prague Before You Leave

Ever since the velvet revolution, Prague has become one of the chicest cities in the world. From hip cafés to Gothic cathedrals, this cosmopolitan city has built up its reputation over the years as an unconventional area that tourists absolutely adore. If you’re planning a weekend away in Prague, you’re going to want to pack in as much as possible. Before you get back on that plane, make sure you’ve checked out the following:

La Degustation Boheme Bourgeoise

Prague food may be delicious, but it can be pretty heavy-going. For a six course meal with a lighter touch, book a table at La Degustation Boheme Bourgeoise. Foodies will love the recipes which date back to an 1880 cookbook.

Things to do in Prague | What to see in Prague

What To See In Prague

Charles Bridge

Under the auspices of King Charles IV, this stunning bridge was built in 1357, complete with 16 arches, and 30 Baroque statues. Get here at dawn, and you can really soak in the beautiful views, but by the afternoon, the cobblestones are full of painters and vendors.

Bunkr Parukarka

Ever been to a nightclub in a 1950s nuclear bunker? Take up this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to party hard to electro-pop underground. And hey, it can’t hurt to do some bootie-shaking in a nigh-on indestructible venue, can it?

U Medvidku Beer Hall and Restaurant

Established in 1466, U Medvidku has stood the test of time. You really need to go here if you like your ale and try out their X-Beer 33. Fermented for six months in an oak barrel, this pint has a whopping alcohol percentage of 11.8%. Before you take on this monster of a brew, line your stomach with the in-house dishes. True to Czech tradition the menu is packed full of wholesome nommies like larded roast beef.

Museum of Communism

Take a walk through communist Prague. The Museum of Communism depicts the lives of the Czech people under the hard rule of a one party system. Culminating in the velvet revolution that ended it all, this trip is both fascinating and engaging.

Zizkov

Can you believe that 300 bars are concentrated into two square miles of Prague? This past industrial suburb has an insane nightlife for those who are looking to party away an evening. Don’t come in your best suit. This area is a ‘beers served in plastic cups’ kind of place. You won’t want your air fare to eat into your booze money so visit cheapflights for flights to Prague.

Petrin Hill

If you’re tired of the city and are looking for a green place to relax, take a train to Petrin Hill. Here you can enjoy the Church of St Michael, which is a 17^th century wooden place of worship that was transported from a village in Ukraine to the top of this 1,000 foot hill.

David Cerny’s Public Sculptures

Cerny has certainly got a knack for making people laugh and offending them in equal parts. Check out some of his most famous works, like ‘Babies’ – ten massive crawling infants – and ‘Brownnosers,’ where visitors climb a ladder to look up the backside of a giant statue. Inside there is a video of an actor (a President Vaclav Klaus lookalike) eating baby food.

Things to do in Prague | Prague Castle

Prague Castle

The largest ancient castle in the world, Prague Castle can’t be left off your list off ‘things to see.’ Decorated beautifully, the interior will take more than one day to see in its entirety.

Lloyd Greenall is a Blogger and Copywriter at Cheap Flights.

Caribbean All Inclusive Trips

Shore Excursions In Barbados

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 08:51:21 -0600

Barbados is a delightful island and one of the Caribbean's most popular tourist destinations. It is easy to see why as it has plenty to offer visitors, including those who arrive by cruise ship. Barbados was a British colony for around three hundred years and though it is now independent, it retains the British monarch as head of state. As such, it has good relations with the UK and is very welcoming to visitors from across the world. There is a lot to do on the island, though the great weather and gorgeous landscapes are enough to satisfy many visitors.

Coast to Coast

Perhaps one of the best ways to get an overview of the island, this great excursion really takes in all that Barbados has to offer. Starting with the gothic structure of St John's Church perched on the cliffs overlooking the island's east coast, the trip then moves on to the Highland Centre, situated at the highest point and thus offering spectacular views in all directions.

Beach Break | Discover Barbados

Island Hop

This is also a great place to enjoy the local speciality of rum punch before heading out to see other key sights such as Heroes' Square, Gun Hill Signal Station, Holetown (where the first settlers arrived in the 1600s) and Sandy Lane and then returning to the capital, Bridgetown.

Beach Break

One of the main attractions of Barbados is its sweeping coastline and the beaches that can be found along it. From the main mooring spot for cruise ships a transfer will take you through historic Bridgetown, past the parliament buildings and out to Carlisle Bay one of the widest and longest beaches on the island. A refreshing drink and a deckchair are all included and you will be left to spend the day in peace, relaxing and enjoying all the delights offered by the classic combination of sun, sea and sand. As the day draws to a close, the transfer will be ready to return you to the ship for the evening.

Beach Break | Places To Visit In Barbados

Hurricane Tips Safety

Caribbean Sunset

After a busy day exploring all that Barbados to offer or a relaxing day on the beach, a sunset cruise at dusk is the perfect way to spend the evening. The yacht will cruise along the western coast, offering the spectacle of a tropical sunset combined with the beauty of the shimmering sea and the pleasure of a warm evening breeze. The crew are there to meet your every need and you will be able to sample traditional Caribbean hors d'oeuvres and sip Champagne as you sail to truly complete the sense of luxury on this excursion.

Discover Atlantis

If an adventure on land or above the waves isn't enough, why not try an excursion on the Atlantis submarine one of the Caribbean's most popular attractions. A short boat trip takes you out to the submarine's mooring spot and once you dive below sea level you will encounter a fascinating world of wildlife, all identified and explained by expert guides that form a part of your crew. From your porthole, you will be able to see myriad species of brightly coloured fish, remarkable sponge gardens and spectacular coral formations, all part of this incredible aquarium in reverse. For your comfort, the interior of Atlantis is kept at sea-level pressure and air-conditioned temperature.

Places To Visit In Barbados | Discover Barbados

Cool Runnings

Cool Runnings offer catamaran trips around the coast of the island, stopping off to swim with turtles, go snorkelling around a ship wreck and sample the local speciality; flying fish. There are cruises every Wednesday; one in the morning and one in the afternoon allowing you to watch the sunset from the Caribbean Sea.

Check out our YouTube Video Series on Beach Break .

Barbados has plenty to offer every visitor, especially those who arrive by cruise ship. Having moored up in and explored, historic Bridgetown, the rest of the island is your oyster, whether you choose to drive across it, sample the beaches or take to the sea.

Post by Tony, a British travel blogger writing for http://www.cruise.co.uk.

Best Places For Destination Weddings

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 03:41:48 -0600

Check out our YouTube Video Series on Best Places For Destination Weddings.

Travel photo of the day by Andrew Prince - The beauty of a destination wedding is that you can combine the
marriage with a honeymoon so you're getting two things for the price of one. Come discover the Island of St Lucia.

Affordable Beach Weddings

Best Destination Weddings

Weddings in the Caribbean

Discover Toronto

Sat, 24 Nov 2012 11:40:54 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A rooftop view of the C.N. Tower in Toronto, Ontario.
With constant traffic and lit up buildings, the city never seems to sleep.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Travel to
Toronto

Christmas In Toronto

Sat, 24 Nov 2012 11:40:41 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The street lights in Toronto Canada welcome the holiday season. Toronto's
downtown core is always buzzling with activity.

Toronto Santa
Parade

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Fun UK Travel Ideas To Try With A New Love

Fri, 23 Nov 2012 07:42:37 -0600

Fun UK travel ideas to try with a new love

If you’re embarking on a new relationship it’s never been more important to put a bit of time aside to get to know each other properly. This will be crucial for how the rest of the relationship develops. And I don’t just mean squeezing in some hours after work – I’m talking about a trip away to spend just with each other.

However, planning the perfect romantic getaway can be difficult. You could opt for the easy, unimaginative route and rent a cottage in some distant, picturesque corner of the country. But will this really help you and your partner develop a closer bond at this crucial stage? Here are a few suggestions for fun getaways in the UK which are sure to bring you closer to your new partner, whether you met on a dating site or through friends.

Best Romantic Getaways | UK Travel

Getaway Weekend

Let’s get messy

Why not find your inner-soldier together and opt for a paint balling weekend with your partner? These are organized across the country – you could go for a day or for a whole weekend of running around with paint guns and getting mud-splattered together. Combine this with a romantic hotel, delicious pub grub and maybe a blazing fire and you’ve got a great weekend. The teamwork involved in paint balling could also have a surprisingly beneficial effect on the way you relate.

Put your apron on

It’s time to tackle that daily chore and become an impressive chef. A cooking course would be a great idea for a weekend away together – you’ll be learning a new skill you can use for a lifetime, plus you will share a fun and diverse experience, as well as learning a lot about each other.

Live the country life

Best Romantic Getaways | UK Travel

Best Girlfriend Getaways

If you're looking for something even more unique, did you know there are a lot of places in the UK offering accommodation in return for farm labour? Why not see what life on the farm is like? Spend a week together doing honest work, learn a lot and get to know each other intimately.

Pack your skis

You don't have to leave the UK for a skiing mini break. Up in Scotland you'll find several ski locations, including Glencoe and the Nevis range. Not far from home, here is a gorgeous landscape and days of great fun with snow from halfway through December.

Romantic Getaways UK | UK Travel

Embark on a spiritual journey with your partner by going on a retreat – there are lots of these all over the country designed to take you away from the hubbub of daily life and relax you. On the lighter end are yoga retreats, or meditation if you want to try something more intense. You'll find yourselves opening up to each other and being more yourselves in a newfound relaxed state.

Don't go on an unimaginative holiday. Think outside the box for an experience that will make you really bond and get to know each other. This is especially important if you haven't known each other long, for example if you met recently on an online dating website in the UK. The above trips away are great for finding out more about each other and cementing your relationship, so book now and take your relationship to the next stage.

Author Bio

Tracey Chandler is a freelance, travel writer and regular contributor to a variety of online female-interest publications. At present she is busy discovering all that Latin America has to offer.

Top European Destinations

Gobble This.. Happy Thanksgiving

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:55:51 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - We wanted to reach out to our friends, partners and associates to wish you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Rideau Canal Skateway

Cavalcade of Lights Toronto

Thu, 22 Nov 2012 10:54:00 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Cavalcade of Lights Toronto - A crowd slowly dissipates from Nathan
Philip Square as Toronto's annual Cavalcade of Lights comes to a close. During the winter months the area below
the arches is converted into a public skating rink.

Toronto Santa
Parade

Santa Clause
Parade

The Cavalcade
of Lights

Which City Break is For You Quiz: New York, London or Hong Kong

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 13:24:11 -0600

Best City Breaks

With a long list of cities to choose from around the world, it is sometimes hard to decide where to select, when choosing an idea holiday destination. New York, London and Hong Kong are amongst some of the best cities in the world to take a city break; but the question is which would you enjoy the most?

Would it a Cantonese style holiday in Hong Kong, going shopping in NY or being a guest to London?

Answer each question on this quiz A, B or C and find out which city fit your style

1. You’re walking through a city and you are feeling hungry. Do you head off to find a:

What To See In Prague

A. A Hot Dog

B. Some Dim Sum and bubble tea

C. Fish & Chips

2. Would you class yourself as a:

A. Bit of a busy-body; enjoying the hustle and bustle of life.

B. A traveller; sometimes out of their depth but always loving it.

C. An all-rounder – trying to experience a bit of everything.

3. Do you like learning about history on factual tours?

A. It’s ok. I suppose I’m partial to a fact or two.

B. Very passionate.

C. I like learning about history; but it has to be fun and slightly cheesy.

4. Your ideal partner is in to:

A. Sports.

B. Frozen Yoghurt.

C. Music.

5. If you got dragged along to the theatre, what would you like to see?

Helsinki Attractions

A. Jersey Boys

B. Something you have never heard of before

C. We Will Rock You

6. What architecture do you prefer?

7. You fancy a drink. What is your alcoholic beverage of choice?

A. Anything as long as it takes the edge off my busy day.

B. A cup of saki.

C. A locally brewed pint.

8. If you had a quiet night, where would you spend it?

A. Quiet night? Are you crazy! Where’s the nearest bar?

B. Going for a walk in a beautiful public garden.

C. Watching a gig in a pub with friends.

9. Do you prefer cities that:

A. Never sleep.

B. Have lots of secrets tucked away in them.

C. Are completely multi-cultural.

10. And last but not least. Have a watch of these videos in their entirety. Be honest to yourself; Which would you prefer to visit?

New York city - 10 best places of the BIG apple

Hong Kong - Destination Report from Cruise Today

London - 10 Things You Need To Know

Count up your ‘A’s, ‘B’s, and ‘C’s now:

If you answered mostly ‘A’s – You should travel to New York.

If you answered mostly ‘B’s – You should travel to Hong Kong.

If you answered mostly ‘C’s – You should travel to London.

At the end of the day, you could easily pick any of these cities and get lost in them and find your own adventures. Go to the cities, explore, and enjoy yourself for a few days... you might end up staying there for longer than you planned!

Attached Images:

License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source
License: Creative Commons image source

If Hong Kong was your perfect destination, a great place to check out is the Harbour Plaza Metropolis Hotel Hong Kong?

Falls in Niagara

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 05:05:33 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A view of both the Canadian and American falls in Niagara, Ontario.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Travel to
Toronto

Toronto Tourist Attractions

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 05:04:37 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Dundas Square in Toronto, Canada is converted into a public recreation area to
support the Grey Cup..

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Discover
Toronto

The Cavalcade of Lights

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 15:55:23 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The Cavalcade of Lights - A crowd gathers at Nathan Philips
Square on Nov 17th at The Cavalcade of Lights. Cavalcade kicks off the holidays by lighting Toronto's
official Christmas tree followed by fireworks and a free concert.

Toronto Santa
Parade

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Where to Take the Kids in Bermuda

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 06:58:27 -0600

Bermuda may not strike you as the family vacation destination of choice, but more and more families are taking their children on cruises with them, and Bermuda is often the destination they visit. If you are taking in the sights of Bermuda with your kids in tow, here are some locations to visit to ensure everyone has a great time.

Snorkel Park

What kid on an island is not going to be attracted to the beach? Enjoy the fun of water safely at Snorkel Park. Located in Sandy’s Parish, this little cove has a white sand beach that was laid out with children in mind. You can snorkel in shallow waters and see sunken cannons and other underwater features teeming with colorful marine life, without fear of waves. A couple of water slides make swimming even more fun for the kids at this destination.

Family Friendly Vacations | Family Vacation Destination

Island Hopping Caribbean

Maritime Museum

If you take the kids to the Maritime Museum, they can see artifacts from ancient shipwrecks, exhibits showcasing the history of the islands and the culture of the people of Bermuda, but what is the biggest attraction here is the adjacent Dolphin Quest exhibit. Admission to the Maritime Museum gets your kids a glimpse of the dolphins, and if you want to pay an additional fee, you can actually swim with the friendly marine mammals. While the fee for this experience is quite high, it is definitely something your children will never forget.

Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute

The Maritime Museum may not be the most kid-friendly attraction, outside of the dolphins, but the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute is! The exhibits here focus on the relationship between people and the ocean. Here kids can experience a virtual dive, see extensive shell collections, learn what SCUBA diving is like and even see artifacts from the Titanic. Many of the exhibits are hands-on, so kids feel welcome throughout their visit.

Grotto Bay Hotel Caves

The Grotto Bay Hotel has caves that you can explore without paying any admission fee. These are small and just about the right size for kids, without the fear factor of deeper, darker caves. Kids will enjoy exploring the world underground, and the cool recesses of the cave provide a respite on particularly warm days.

Shelley Bay

Your kids will want to swim when you visit Bermuda, but you need to be sure they can do so safely. The waters at Shelley Bay are particularly calm, and the area is shallow as well. This makes it an ideal swimming beach for families traveling with children.

Whether you spend most of your time on the beach or head into the island to explore, you will find plenty to do to keep your kids busy and engaged when visiting Bermuda. So book a kid-friendly cruise and set sail for the pink sands of this popular island destination.

Attached Images:

License: Creative Commons image source

Karolina Shenton works with The Cruise Web. Whether your family wants to take a summer vacation to Bermuda or you are trying to find Charleston cruise deals, the consultants at The Cruise Web can help you find and book the perfect trip.

Spectacular Beaches and Superb Food: A Recipe for a Perfect Holiday

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 05:00:26 -0600

Spectacular Beaches and Superb Food: A Recipe for a Perfect Holiday

Ibiza is a beautiful island, right in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea and off the coast of Spain. The night life, the electronic music and the sights of this island are incomparable and renowned world over. This island is one of the fifty western Balearic archipelagos called Pine islands, some of them completely untouched and uninhabited. Warmth and sunlight transforms this island into a vibrant flowering paradise that is simply gorgeous to witness.

Clear star-filled skies, stunning blue seas, and the secret coves of this island are just breath-taking and well worth a look.

Perfect Holiday | Holiday Travel Deals

Package Holiday To Spain

Must Do’s on this Island:

The island offers a 360-degree vista of more than twenty different beaches. Many of these calm beaches are perfect for families, who just want to relax and take pleasure in the scenic splendour.
The weather is pleasant throughout the year, with the temperatures varying from mildly chilly in winter to extremely hot in summer. Therefore, pack your beach wear and shorts, and enjoy the summer parties of this island where it is said that the parties never stop.
There are many activities in this place that will keep you occupied at any time of the year. Their open air operas held in Dalt Vila and fireworks add colour and spark to your holiday. This island is popular for its jazz festival, where anyone could just melt in the smooth harmonious over tones of saxophone and other instruments.
Being completely surrounded by water comes with plenty of other perks. Boating is extremely popular here and tourists can simply lie back on a yacht in the middle of the sea for some quiet and leisure time. You could also hold private parties on chartered boats.

Perfect Holiday | Ibiza Holidays

Vacation Spots in Spain
It is a haven for water sports and diving, water skiing; while parasailing and banana rides are accessible at every corner of the island. In addition to these activities, cycling, hiking, mountain biking and golf are some of the other popular activities here.
The island celebrates its carnival with pomp and grandeur. The parades are colourful and provide a stupendous extravaganza of fun and festivities.
The Ibiza jewellery is an art in itself, as many parts of the ancient Roman collaboration is still seen in the traditions of this island.
There are numerous caves, castles and markets, with the choice of self-drive island tours that are tantalising, and where one can truly experience and appreciate the beauty of this island as a perfect holiday destination.
Of course, do not forget to try their diverse healing detox spas that are truly relaxing and work wonders on your body and mind.

Eclectic and Delicious Food

Ibiza Trips are spicy, varied and tasteful just like their food. Every flavour of Mediterranean cuisine is available on this island, whether it is a simple lunch or a romantic candle light dinner that is being planned. The essence of Spain is captured in every mouthful of their traditional Ibiza recipes cooked with rabbits, fish, lamb or chicken.

There are plenty of offers for those interested in Ibiza Holidays. The ideal mix of hotels, entertainment, food and their personal brand of hospitality makes for an exclusive holiday on this panoramic and fairly unexplored island.

Jay Carter makes a point of going travelling at least 4 times a year and has so far covered 46 different countries. Taking his family with him gives him an amusing insight into travel in every situation.

Toronto Canada Attractions

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 05:00:21 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - An Elvis impersonator performs on the streets of Toronto,Canada.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Travel to
Toronto

6 Signs You Should Not Scuba Dive

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 11:39:52 -0600

Scuba diving can be a great way to experience sights that most people will only see in pictures. You can swim among sea creatures and learn how animals act in their own natural habitat, and you can see the brilliant colors and life that lives below the surface.

But just because you’re interested or certified in scuba diving does not mean that it’s meant for everyone at every time. There are certain times that scuba diving should not be done, and the following are a few of those scenarios.

1. You’re not certified.

In order to scuba dive, you need to have received the proper training and the proper certification that proves you know how to handle your equipment and that you know what you’re doing. If you have never received an ounce of training or if you’re not yet certified to dive, then don’t do it. While fun, scuba diving can be a very dangerous activity, and the training is required to ensure that you’re safe.

Scuba Dive | Diving Tips

Shipwrecks Great Lakes

2. You’re alone.

It doesn’t matter how seasoned of a scuba diver you are, you should never scuba dive alone. There are too many things that can go wrong, and if you’re alone, nobody will be around to help you in case an unfortunate situation arises, and nobody may even know if you’ve gone missing. If you want to scuba dive, make sure that you’re always accompanied by at least one other person.

3. You’re intoxicated.

Scuba diving is not something you should attempt after you’ve consumed a handful of cocktails. Alcohol greatly impairs your vision and judgment, and it may cause you to attempt to dive further than you physically can, which can results in severe injury or even death.

4. The weather is bad.

The weather plays an important role in the safety of your dive, and you need to make sure that you’re not attempting to dive in inclement weather conditions. Big storms or windy conditions can make the water more dangerous, and trying to dive during inclement weather can be extremely dangerous.

5. You suffer from certain illnesses or disorders.

A medical exam is required for you to become certified in scuba diving, and if you suffer from illnesses like asthma, claustrophobia, epilepsy, back injury, lung disease, heart disease or a number of other illnesses, you may not be deemed fit and healthy enough to scuba dive. Diving can be rough and it requires you to be in very good health. Trying to scuba dive when you suffer from pre-existing conditions or illnesses can make it very dangerous for you and can result in injury or death.

Scuba Dive | Diving Tips

Island Hopping Fiji

6. You don’t have a plan.

Before you dive, you need to make sure that you have a plan in place. And then when you start to dive, you need to make sure that you stick to that plan. Planning out a dive will ensure that you don’t try to travel further than you can handle and that you know what to do or where to go in case of an emergency. Planning is meant to be a major safety precaution, and if you don’t have one before you dive, you can find yourself in a very dangerous situation.

Caroline Jones is a travel agent and avid blogger. She recently wrote details about the various Bahamas excursions that she enjoyed while traveling.

Destination Weddings In Caribbean

Museums in Ottawa

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 11:39:46 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A display at one of Canada's landmark museum - The Museum of Civilization
Ottawa Canada.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

The Ultimate Wedding Plan

Sat, 17 Nov 2012 11:39:41 -0600

Anyone who is planning a wedding wants to find the "ultimate wedding plan." There are so many things to think about when planning your wedding. Sometimes you just want someone to step in and help you figure out what is important. Or where to start. Or how to go about all of this planning business.

So, to help you out, I have created The Ultimate Wedding Plan. This will help you plan your wedding, at least to help you get started. This may not help you find the perfect spouse, or the perfect honeymoon destination. This is meant to serve as a guide to help you with planning your wedding and reception.

1. Set your budget.

When planning your wedding, you should start by setting your budget. You need to know exactly what you have to work with when planning your wedding. This will help you to know how basic or extravagant you will be able to go, and what type of cuts or compromises you may have to make. So start by figuring out what type of a budget you will be working with.

2. Do your research.

Next up, do some research. Read bridal magazines. Check out bridal websites and blogs. Go to bridal shows. Think about things that you've enjoyed (and not liked as much) at other friends' and family members' weddings and receptions. Talk to friends of yours that have gotten married and ask them what they enjoyed most and what they would have done differently.

From your research, decide what types of things you want to do for your wedding. Where do you want to have it? What type of event do you want it to be? What colors do you want? Etc etc.

Wedding Tips | Wedding Planning Tips

3. Find your perfect dress.

Before moving forward, you will want to find your perfect dress. First off, this is the most exciting part of planning a wedding, so let's get to it! On top of that, your dress will give you a good idea of how you want to move forward. As you picture yourself in your dress, you will be able to picture how you want to wear your hair, the type of bridesmaid dresses you will want, and the type of look and feel of your entire wedding. It will help you to know if you are planning a cool, casual, laid back wedding, or a wedding that is high class and formal.

4. Find the perfect venue.

From there, you will want to decide where you want to have your wedding. Do you want a very formal feeling wedding held in a classy reception center? Or have you always wanted a comfortable backyard wedding? You may have pictured your wedding in a more unique location like an art gallery. Either way, decide what type of venue you want to hold your wedding/reception in, and then go out and find the perfect fit.

All Inclusive Destination Weddings

5. Decorate.

Once you have the perfect venue, you will want to start thinking about decorations. Your decorations will really put that perfect touch on your wedding. It is what will really drive the theme and feel home that you wanted for your wedding. So, find decorations that will match your personality and your desired theme for your wedding. Make sure that you use nice tablecloths and linens. No decorating theme can be ruined quicker than by using paper tablecloths. If you want to save money on your linens, buy them used instead of brand new.

Wedding Tips | Wedding Planning Ideas

Best Places For Destination Weddings

6. Plan your dream menu.

On to the food! This is another really fun aspect of planning your wedding. When it comes to food, don't plan food that you feel you're "supposed" to have. If your family is advising you to have a sit down menu, and an elaborate cake, understand that you don't have to listen. These are your choices to make, and that includes what type of food you will have. Think of the types of food you enjoy. And have those foods served at your wedding. And know that it's ok if you'd rather have cupcakes or cookies than a big wedding cake. Or a buffet of desserts instead of a full dinner. Or an appetizer fest or taco bar or cotton candy and corn dogs instead of prime rib. This is your wedding, do what you want to do.

Conclusion

So there you have it, The Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide. Just remember that this doesn't need to be a stressful thing. Your wedding is supposed to be one of the best days of your life. And it will be difficult for it to feel that way if your planning is filled with stress and confusion. So remember to have fun with this! This is meant to be a fun, enjoyable part of your life. So have fun with it, don't get too caught up in the details, and remember to enjoy yourself!

Nicole writes for bbjlinenstore.com. They sell used inexpensive, high quality linens and dinnerware. View their table linens for sale.

Christmas Time Again

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 02:16:43 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Christmas Time Again - A creative street vendor sells his handcrafted
animals in Toronto, Canada. The streets of Toronto host a variety of street performers, artists, and craftsmen of all kinds.

Cavalcade of Lights
Toronto

Santa Clause
Parade

Travel to
Toronto

Travel to Toronto

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 02:16:23 -0600

Canada Wonderland

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - At night the Toronto cityscape presents excellent opportunities
for great photos.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Canada Wonderland

Discover
Toronto

Firefighters Prayer

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 03:10:28 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The placard reads - A Fire Fighters Prayer. The memorial is located
on College St. in Toronto, Canada. It serves to commemorate the service of fire fighters.

Canada Day
in Ottawa

Lest We
Forget

Remembrance
Day Poems

I Dream Of Africa

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 15:50:25 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski

Rwanda Travel

Vacation to Africa

I Left My Heart ..

Top Five Family Destinations in Queensland

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 04:17:15 -0600

Queensland is home to some of Australia’s most exciting and popular tourist destinations. From surfers looking for the best waves- and parties- in the world to nature lovers looking to explore the ancient rainforests, Queensland attracts a wide range of visitors from across the world. Due to the huge array of different attractions it is also the perfect destination for a family holiday-offering a little something for everyone. At over four times the size of California deciding which part of Queensland to explore can be a daunting task. To help you here are our top five family friendly destinations:

Holiday Destination | Vacation To Australia

Yacht Rental

The Great Barrier Reef

is one of the natural wonders of the world- and the perfect place for any nature loving family to take a vacation. Stretching for over 2000 kilometres, it is one of Planet Earth’s most impressive natural structures and fulfils a vital role in our fragile ecosystem. There are many beautiful locations which are perfect for a family holiday along the reef, but perhaps our favourite is Lizard Island. Some of Queensland’s most respected diving schools are located here and family discounts are often available on enquiry. Do bear in mind that the equipment you need is often cheaper to rent in Brisbane or other large towns if you happen to be travelling.

Best Holiday Destination | Vacation To Australia

How Much You Should Tip

The Sunshine Coast

Perhaps slightly less popular than the better known Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast is nonetheless the number one destination for many families visiting Queensland. It offers a combination of stunning scenery, incredible wildlife, faultless beaches and world class attractions. For adults there is the romance of some of Australia’s best wineries and most lauded restaurants. For the kids there is the excitement of the Aussie World theme park and the internationally renowned, Australia Zoo.

Daintree Rainforest

If being home to the Great Barrier Reef is not enough, large areas of Queensland are also covered in lush ancient rainforest. Children will love the sheer size of trees which seem to reach up to the sky and the large colonies of giant fruit bats which hang upside down in the trees are sure to fire the imagination. A great way to learn more about the rainforest is to visit one of the world class visitor centres which punctuate Queensland’s forests- and there is none better than the Daintree Discovery Centre. Not only can you learn about the unusual wildlife, such as the blue-headed Cassowary, but thrill seekers can take the aerial walkway built high amongst the tree tops.

Cairns

Cairns, the largest town in Far North Queensland, is not only a great base from which to start your exploration but also a great family destination in its own right. For culture vulture’s there are several art galleries and museums, including the brilliant Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Cairns offers a fantastic choice of reasonably priced hotels and some of the best self-catering apartments which there are to rent in Queensland.

Best Holiday Destination | Vacation To Australia

Best Travel Destinations

Surfer’s Paradise

Located along the idyllic Gold Coast, Surfer’s Paradise has to be one of the best family holiday destinations in the world. It combines a world class, pristine beach with a huge array of fun attractions. The streets of Surfer’s Paradise are lined with shops, cafes and family friendly restaurants - not to mention a world class market selling everything from shark tooth necklaces to handmade skateboards. When the kids get bored of the beach,Surfer’s Paradise is also only a stone’s throw away from Warner Brothers Movie World theme park, Sea World- and the somewhat more unusual (but no less exciting) Tropical Fruit World!

Lest We Forget

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 13:17:13 -0600

Remembrance Day Poems

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The tomb of the unknown soldier honours all Canadians who sacrificed their lives in the cause of peace and freedom in the heart of downtown Ottawa In Canada.

Canada Day
in Ottawa

November 11
Remembrance Day

Remembrance
Day Poems

November 11 Remembrance Day

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 13:17:06 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The National War Memorial is located in
Confederation Square in the heart of downtown Ottawa In Canada.

Canada Day
in Ottawa

Lest We
Forget

Remembrance
Day Poems

Hottest Travel Destinations of 2012

Sat, 10 Nov 2012 02:43:33 -0600

Hottest Travel Destinations of 2012

The year 2012 saw a remarkable growth in tourism compared to all previous years. People loved places that had full scope for adventure. They preferred to visit such places that were not popular in the travel map and considered second best in comparison to the otherwise known places. Hence, exploration and discovery were the main themes of trips conducted by tour operators and they did their best to highlight such places in the list of preferred locations that were beyond the knowledge of the people.

The tourists also displayed their zeal to remain close to the nature and considered their vacations to be a means to take break from their busy routines. They loved to visit such sites that brought them to the world much different from what they actually inhabited. Instead of getting imposed about a new destination, you should be flexible and on the lookout for a change every time.

Adventure Travel | Best Travel Destinations

Tropical Vacation Spots

This is the best way to discover new holidaying destinations and discover your taste as well. This change in the outlook of the tourists brought following destinations to everybody’s attention.

1. City of Panama : This city came into the limelight when the famous couple Brangelina was spotted enjoying themselves. The city is an interesting mix of rustic and modern locations. Even hotels and rest houses take the tourists to the realities of the past and they are able to get the taste of ancient city life while enjoying the comforts of the modern world.

Adventure Travel | Best Travel Destinations

Planning a Trip

To keep pace with the fast modern world, the city is also undergoing a lot of changes and is proving to be the ultimate destination for people loving quiet and a serene city life. The beaches in the city are the main attractions and people can be found basking under sun with their loved ones.

2. Xishuangbanna: It is located in the Southern Younnan province of China. Those people who want to explore locations other than Tibet or Lijiang can now extend their trips to this place which is located at the foot of Himalayan peak. Much close to the nature and full of scenic beauties, the place is nothing less than heaven for the people who want to explore and enjoy the pastoral city life. People interested in knowing about the age-old customs and traditions can satiate their curiosity by paying a visit to this place.

3. Corumbau: This is a remote place located in southern Bahia region of Brazil. Those who are already done with much talked about Brazilian coffee and Salsa can now divert their attention to this far from pomp and show location. The main essence of this location is remoteness, closeness to nature and adventure. On landing at Brazilian airport, one requires to take a four hour long road journey to reach this awesome location giving good value for the money spent in search of finding an exotic location.

4. Sri Lanka : This country is hiding a lot inside its periphery and is proving to be an eye-brow raiser to the people who are fond of discovering unexplored world. The resorts and beaches, since less visited, have an earthy feel. From Luxurious 5-star Bentota resorts to small but beautiful Maya hotel, the city has something or the other for everybody. The government is also contributing by converting historic locations into boutique hotels to give an idea to the tourists about the country’s history and culture.

Adventure Travel | Top Vacation Destinations

Maleleo Bed & Breakfast Brazil

Be it for a purpose of holidaying or adventure, the unvisited lands in your list always add charm to the efforts made and experience as well. So, if you are readying yourself for a recent tour, do not forget to give a memorable touch to your chosen destination.

Author Box:

Yanna is a true wanderer who loves to explore different destinations in the map of natural collections. Besides, he is more inclined towards locating those places that do not easily find their presence on maps. For more information, you can visit his blogs which discuss wonderful holidaying places along with superior packages that come with north Conway hotels and others.

Museum of Civilization

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 04:51:17 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The Canadian Museum of Civilization Ottawa (Gatineau) Canada.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

iPad VPN First Time Buyers Guide: Subscribing to the Right

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 04:51:06 -0600

iPad VPN First Time Buyers Guide: Subscribing to the Right VPN

Virtual private networks, or VPNs, are becoming increasingly popular with iPad users. Users recognize VPNs to be a superior tool when it comes to accessing the Internet securely and without restrictions. Though there are some free VPN services available, most iPad users will agree that paid services offer more reliability, better security and faster connections.

Advantages of a VPN

Firewalls and anti-virus software are important but they cannot prevent personal data from being intercepted during transmission.

The primary reason most people use a VPN service is for online security. Many people use the Internet to bank, work and shop online. At times, they may be accessing the Internet through an unsecure connection such as a Wi-Fi hotspot. This is particularly true for people who are traveling and accessing their accounts from hotels, airports or Internet cafés. In these cases, it is imperative they use an iPad VPN provider to protect their personal and financial information. A VPN will encrypt all communications and transmit them through secure tunnels to prevent data theft.

Online Security | Computer Protection

Airport Experience

Another advantage to a VPN is that is allows users who are travelling abroad to enjoy the Internet freedom they are used to while at home. Many sites have geo-location restrictions and some governments censor certain websites to their citizens. A VPN will make a user appear to be accessing the Internet through any country in which they have servers. This will allow users to bypass these restrictions.

When shopping for a VPN providers, users should consider the following factors:

Factor 1: Compatibility

VPN services will usually offer a variety of protocol choices. Because not all protocols are compatible with all devices, users should ensure that the VPN service they select offers protocol choices for any device they will be using. For example, iPads can connect with PPTP and L2TP. iPad users should look for a VPN provider who offers at least those two protocols.

Online Security | Internet Safety

Plan Your Trip

Factor 2: Reliability

Users should look for a service with a history of proven reliability. Some VPN providers do not own or maintain their own servers and software. These providers can offer no uptime or service guarantees and their users are frequently unable to connect. A quality VPN provider will maintain all their equipment in-house and will provide 24-hour technical support to ensure that all systems are always up and running.

Users should also be sure that their provider offers multiple servers to prevent slow connections due to high traffic volume. For users who travel abroad, globally located servers are ideal. Quality providers will usually have unlimited IP address availability. Users of services with limited IPs will often find themselves unable to connect when all IPs are in use. Services where users suffer from slow connections or the inability to connect at all do not provide the reliability that most users require.

Factor 3 – Cost

Cost is an important factor, but it should not be the only factor considered when looking for a VPN provider. Low-cost providers often offer these lower prices by omitting some key elements. This can lead to lower security and reliability for the user.

Once a user has created a list of three or more potential iPad VPN providers, they should look into cost comparisons. Users should look at packages offered by the VPN provider and read through the package options.

C.N. Tower in Toronto

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 02:45:00 -0600

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A sunset view of the C.N. Tower in Toronto,Canada.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Discover
Toronto

Travel to
Toronto

Top 10 South America Adventures

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 02:44:52 -0600

Top 10 South America Adventures

South America is a fantastic destination for adventure travelling and you can find several options in any country you visit. Here are just ten of the many that should make it on your short list if you plan on travelling there.

Inca Trail, Peru

There’s no question that the best way to visit Machu Picchu is by hiking into this ancient citadel. And the only way to do that is by taking the 4 day Inca Trail. If you want a route less travelled that will take you to Aguas Calientes, or if no permits are available, try the Salkantay Nature Trail. Both depart from Cusco.

Bolivia’s Death Road

Although a change in the road has made this a bit less dangerous, it is still a hair-raising mountain biking feat and definitely not for the faint of heart. It takes you about 64 km between La Paz and Coroico in the rainforest. It takes you along an unpaved road with plunging drop-offs and no guardrails.

South America Tours | Backpacking South America

Popular Peruvian Dishes

Torres del Paine, Chile

Trekking is a particularly popular activity in South America and one of the best places to do it is Torres del Paine in Chile. You’ll find kilometre after kilometre of trails going through some of the most amazing landscapes anywhere including mountains, turquoise lakes, rivers, glaciers, meadows and more. Plenty of campgrounds available.

Mendoza River Rafting, Argentina

There’s some great river rafting all over South America and the Mendoza River in Argentina is no exception. You can raft there any time of year but during the summer the rapids are up to Class IV and V. A great activity to combine with the more leisurely paced wine tasting that can be done in the area.

Amazon Jungle Kayaking, Brazil

There are many ways to experience the Amazon Jungle but one of the best is going by kayak. The slow pace allows you to really appreciate the nature around you. Along the way, you can get out and hike around the rainforest or head up into the canopy above.

South American Holidays | South America Tours

Places To Visit In Argentina

Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) Trek, Columbia

It’s not so much the city at the end of the trek that makes this one worthwhile as the stunning vistas that you will have along the way. You’ll hike up mountains, through jungle, across rivers and encounter indigenous people as you make the five or six day journey to the ancient site. Starts from Santa Marta on the Caribbean coast.

Scuba Diving in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

If wildlife is your thing, then you have to be interested in a place where there are species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. To get the best view of all that is to be found here, you can beat diving down to see what lies below the surface. Some cruise ships specialize in diving so those are the ones to look for.

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

In a continent that is renowned for its unusual landscapes, the salt flat of Uyuni has to be one of the most unique. It is the world’s largest and is found at an altitude of 3500 meters above sea level and covers about 12,500 km. Take a bus and then a train from La Paz.

Monte Verde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica

An ecosystem with a biodiversity reminiscent of the Amazon, this rainforest is located more than 1400 meters above sea level. It is home to more than 100 species of mammals, hundreds of bird species and, of course, a multitude of insects. Of the more than 2500 plant varieties, over 400 are orchids.

South American Holidays | Backpacking South America

Adventures in South America

Mount Fitz Roy, Argentina

If climbing is your thing, you won’t want to miss Mount Fitz Roy, the highest peak in Los Glacieres National Park in the Patagonia region of Argentina. For serious climbers only; others can find numerous trails to hike with gorgeous views.

Guest Blog post by Maureen Santucci - for more inspiration take a look at these South America adventure ideas.

The UK Top 5 Beaches

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 02:44:37 -0600

The UK’s Top 5 Beaches

As an island nation with a long and intense association with the sea, it’s no surprise that the United Kingdom boasts an excellent assortment of beaches. From the bustling resorts beloved of seaside holidaymakers, to remote, windswept coasts where seabirds are your only companions, there is a beach to suit every taste along Britain’s lengthy coasts.

With this variety in mind, we’ve put together a list of our top five beaches in the UK – so which are your favourites?

Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

One of the best examples of Britain’s dramatic coastline, Bamburgh’s crescent of sand is overlooked by the atmospheric, turreted ruins of Bamburgh Castle. Wander the three miles of shoreline between Bamburgh Village and Seahouses, and if you can, take a trip across the causeway (only accessible at low tide) to the even more peaceful Holy Island. This wild coastal setting is perfect for walkers, birdwatchers, and especially those looking to get away from the bustle of modern life.

Top Beaches in the UK | Beaches in Great Britain

London On A Budget

West Wittering, West Sussex

A perennial family favourite, West Wittering draws crowds during the summer but luckily has enough space so that you never feel overcrowded. Travel by bus or car through rolling green countryside until you reach the sea, where there is ample space for parking and picnics. Low tide offers superb opportunities for children, with wet expanses of clean sand perfect for castle building and warm pools for paddling and exploring. The brisk breezes coming off the coast also make the beach a popular destination for kite and windsurfing enthusiasts.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

Adventurous sorts will love the peaceful remoteness of this hidden gem, reached via a narrow and at times steep path over the wooded cliffs. Barafundle’s golden stretch of sand is worth the trek, however – sheltered from the Atlantic winds by limestone cliffs, it is a balmy, peaceful place to swim, doze, and contemplate the brilliant blue sea. It’s recommended to take a picnic to enjoy the grand seclusion, as there are no catering facilities.

Bournemouth, Dorset

Bournemouth is not a beach for those in search of solitude. But for those looking for a family friendly seaside holiday within easy reach of urban amenities, it’s hard to beat. Clean and spacious, with seven miles of soft golden sand, it’s a perfect setting for children; while active sorts will enjoy the range of water sports on offer. And there’s a historic link - did you know that the iconic beach hut was invented in Bournemouth, and that some of huts you can hire there are amongst the oldest in the world?

Top Beaches in the UK | Best Beaches in the Great Britain

London Travel Guide

Sinclair’s Bay, Caithness

Another contender for the title of Britain’s most atmospheric beach, this remote stretch of startlingly white sand stretches between two dramatic 16 ^th-century castles. The sparkling blue waters off its shores seem to belie its location on Scotland’s far northern coast, but its scenic solitude does not. Frequented by whales, porpoises and an array of seabirds, it’s a wonderful place for nature lovers or those looking for an escape far from the bustling holidaying crowds.

Auto Bio: Written by Jonathan Gordon, an enthusiastic discount travel blogger from Edinburgh.

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Attractions Near Ottawa

Sat, 03 Nov 2012 09:24:22 -0500

Places To Visit In Ottawa

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A photo of two white-tailed deer grazing, while their Mother keeps
watch, near Ottawa, Ontario,Canada.

Vacation In
Ottawa

Lansdowne Park Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

Travel Tips To Help Plan An Awesome Euro Trip

Sat, 03 Nov 2012 09:09:50 -0500

If you are planning a trip to Europe, you have made a great choice as you are about to have a wonderful experience. Europe offers visitors an abundant of wonderful countries with many incredible destinations.

Whether it is cruising the Mediterranean, exploring London, or traveling such countries as Germany, France, or another exciting European country, you will experience beautiful cultures, delicious food, fascinating historical sights, magnificent scenery, as well as lots of shopping, entertainment, festivals, and other unique activities and attractions.

When taking a Euro trip, it is important to properly plan so that you have an incredible experience and make many wonderful memories.

European Travel Guide | Top European Destinations

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

Choosing European Destinations

Because Europe is very large and diverse full of such incredible delights, it is helpful to create a list of all of the places you would like to visit. By doing so, you will be able to narrow your selection to the places you really love and will fit in your trip time-frame. The internet is a great place to start, or you could acquire a European travel guide. Paris is always a popular choice and Switzerland and Amsterdam offers tourists many things to see and do. Many travel experts suggest spending a day or two in each place, particularly if you are planning to visit many different places across Europe.

Locating European Travel Deals

If you are like most travelers, it is important to try to save money when traveling. A great resource to locating cheap flights and European vacation packages is on an online travel retailer. On a travel booking site, you can review and compare a wide range of cheap flights to Europe as well as all inclusive vacation packages. You can then search and compare to find the right travel deal that meets your travel criteria and budget.

Euro Trip | Top European Destinations

Where Too Stay In London On A Budget

Many of these online travel booking sites offer lowest-price guarantees, and others offer price-drop protection.

You can start checking airfares a couple of months before the time you want to travel as you can often get a discount for booking early. However, last minute deals are available for those who can travel on short notice. In addition, there are often special promotion travel deals offered on these sites.

Obtain Your Passport

If you don’t have a passport, it is important to get one well in advance of your trip. If you have a passport, make sure it has not expired. If it has expired, get it renewed. As well, you should make photocopies of your itinerary, your passport, and your credit cards. Give a copy to a family member and keep a copy of your passport and credit card info with you but in another place such as a hotel safe.

European Travel Guide | Top European Destinations

Holiday Villa

Obtain Travel Insurance

When traveling out of the country, it is essential to make sure you are protected in the event of an emergency. When buying travel insurance, make sure you have enough medical coverage and that you are protected against theft and loss of luggage.

Contact Credit Card Companies

A few days before you embark on your trip to Europe, contact your credit card company to inform them that you will be using it in different countries so the charges you make will not be denied.

Transportation and Accommodation Considerations

Europe offers a wide range of Hotels, Motels, and Inns. If you are looking for a good deal on quality accommodations, check out travel discount websites. You will find a wide range of various types of accommodations in Europe at great prices. If you want to reduce the amount of planning for your trip, consider an all-inclusive vacation package which can include such travel items as flight, accommodations, car rental, etc, for one lump sum. You can save a lot of money. If you are going to travel to many places in Europe and do not want to rent a car, it is easy to travel by rail. There are many benefits to getting a European rail pass. Check to see if a Eurail pass will make things easier and cheaper as you travel.

When you board the plane for your trip to Europe, you should make sure that you have your important documents such as passport, airline tickets, car rental agreements, hotel reservation information, credit cards, and other essential items such as any medications. Then, go have a fantastic time in Europe and return home with many great memories.

Author Bio: This guest post was written by Riley Gladstone, a freelancer writer and an avid traveller who recommends finding vacation deals before committing to a trip.

Top 10 Restaurants in Peru

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 15:15:30 -0500

Top 10 Restaurants in Peru

By Maureen Santucci

More and more, Peru is becoming known as one of the best places to go for gastronomy in South America. While most of the finest restaurants can be found in Lima, there are some great choices elsewhere, such as the Incan capital city of Cusco. Even in tiny Aguas Calientes, at the base of Machu Picchu, you can find at least one place that is well worth splurging a bit.

Best Restaurant In Peru | Places to eat in Peru

Volunteering In Peru

Rafael in Lima is considered to be one of the best restaurants in a city known for its cuisine. So popular, you will want to make your reservation well in advance possibly before even leaving your home country. One of the highlights is the fish, brought in fresh daily. It’s located at San Martin 300 in Miraflores. Lunch is Monday through Friday from 1 to 3:30 pm; dinner Monday through Saturday 8 pm – 12 am. Expensive but worth it.

Another in the expensive but worth it category in Lima is Central, located at Calle Santa Isabel 376 in Miraflores. The menu is fusion highlighting fresh Peruvian products. Lunch is served Monday through Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Dinner is from 8 to 11 pm on Monday through Wednesday; until midnight from Thursday to Saturday.

Given that Gaston Acurio is the most famous chef in Peru, there can be no list of top restaurants in the country without mentioning him. Although he does have other restaurants in Lima, try the original, Astrid y Gaston at Calle Cantuarias 175, Miraflores. It’s open Monday through Saturday. Lunch hours are 12:30 to 3:30 pm while dinner is served from 7:45 to 11:45 pm. As with most of the top restaurants in the country, this one is expensive by Peruvian standards.

Best Restaurant In Peru | Popular Peruvian Dishes

How Much To Tip Waitresses

Also by Gaston in Lima is Panchita, located at Av. Dos de Mayo 298 in Miraflores. The pricing is mid-range so a bit easier to swallow if you’re trying to budget. What Gaston has done here is bring traditional Criollo street food inside where you can sit down and enjoy it. Hours are 12:30-9pm Mon-Sat; 12:30-5pm Sun.

If you’re in Lima and after seafood, try Punto Azul at Av. Primavera 2235 in Surco. The dishes are reasonably priced and the portions are huge. It’s open for lunch only so make sure you get there early, even a little before 1, as there will already be a line.

There are some great restaurants in Cusco but the quality is often inconsistent, offering a fantastic meal one time and something substandard the next. Not so at Divina Comedia, located at Pumacurco 406. Always delicious, the food is Peruvian with French influences and the prices reasonable. The restaurant is open for dinner only and features live piano and opera, with songs in Italian and Quechua.

Places to eat in Peru | Popular Peruvian Dishes

South America Tours

Not cheap but also never disappointing is Cicciolina on the 2^nd floor at Calle Triunfo 39 in Cusco. Although there is plenty to enjoy on the regular menu, the highlight here are the tapas... perfect for enjoying in the bar with a selection from one of the better wine menus in town. Also has some yummy baked goods for breakfast. Hours are breakfast from 8 to 11 am, lunch from 12 to 3 pm and dinner from 6 to 10 pm.

Pachapapa is a great place to go to tasty traditional Peruvian food in a manner that is safe for foreign tummies. Located right in San Blas Plaza in Cusco, the restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm. Good place to try guinea pig but you should stop by the day before to reserve it.

If you’re in Cusco and tired of Peruvian food and expensive bills, go to Justina’s on Calle Palacio. They only serve pizza but it’s great quality at a great price and the wine is inexpensive as well. It’s open for dinner only, from 7pm to 10 or 11, depending on how busy it is. Closed on Sundays.

Aguas Calientes, now often referred to as Machu Picchu Pueblo, has a huge number of restaurants for the size of the town, mostly serving the same food at inflated prices. A much better option is Indio Feliz at Lloque Yupanqui 4-12, just off the pedestrian street that heads up to the hot baths. It’s not cheap but if you go for the menu, it’s a great deal for the amount and quality of the food you get. French-Peruvian fusion; open for lunch and dinner.

Maureen Santucci lives in Cusco, Peru where she practices acupuncture and writes on the country’s charms and hidden wonders on behalf of Aracari Peru Travel, specialists in luxury tours to Peru.

Five Unique Argentina Hotels

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 15:15:23 -0500

Five Unique Argentina Hotels

Argentina is, of course, home to many hotels of all sizes and budgets. It can be difficult to make a choice but here are a few that offer something that make them stand out from the competition.

Home Hotel, Buenos Aires

You’ll feel like you’re staying with your newfound millionaire friend at Home Hotel which is no surprise as the place was made to house guests of the owner. There are just 14 rooms and 4 suites which helps to make the place feel chill. Located on a quiet street in Palermo Soho, the amenities here will make you feel like you are a rock star. They include a heated pool, a tapas bar, cocktail lounge, garden, outdoor barbecue and a spa.

Travel to Argentina | Hotels in Argentina

When To Visit Argentina

Complejo Tango Hotel Boutique, Balvanera, Buenos Aires

This mansion dates from 1895 and has been restored with both the epoch and the tango in mind. You will feel like you have stepped into the past from the moment you enter. As the name would indicate, this hotel specializes in the signature dance of Buenos Aires with shows and classes right on the premises. If you want to immerse yourself in the dance, this is a great place to consider staying. There are just 8 rooms so reserve early.

The Yacutinga Lodge and Wildlife Reserve, Missiones Iguazú

The complete opposite of being pampered is the Yacutinga Lodge. This is a different type of getting away from it all. Located about 60km from Iguazu Falls, you will need a boat to arrive there. Sacrificing your creature comforts will be well worth the unforgettable experience of being in the midst of the jungle and the teeming life within this naturalist’s paradise.

Travel to Argentina | Hotels in Argentina

Destinations In Argentina

Design Suites, Barriloche

Close to town but in a gorgeous natural setting, this boutique hotel combines indigenous materials with a modern design for a stunning result. All rooms feature panoramic views of Lake Nahuel Huapi. Other amenities include a wine bar, sauna/spa, heated swimming pool and health center. You can relax by the fireside or in your suite with stunning views and a glass of fine Argentine red. During the day, nature is outside your door and waiting to be explored.

Entre Cielos, Mendoza

You’re going to Mendoza to sample the wines, why not stay at a hotel overlooking vineyards? Ultra contemporary in appearance, this hotel has just 15 luxurious rooms and one loft with a futuristic design and a terrace bathtub. The first-class spa features the first ever Hamam (traditional Turkish baths) in Latin America. You can even book a wine bath. The onsite restaurant features international cuisine as well as asados and an outstanding wine cellar. Tours can be booked right from the hotel.

If you’re looking for unique, boutique travel experiences to Argentina and other South American destinations, take a look at Vaya Adventures, specialists in customized Argentina tour packages .

Rideau Canal Skateway

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:02:28 -0500

Vacation in Canada

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The Rideau Canal Skateway is a 7.8km stretch of water
converted into a public skating rink during the winter months.

Shimmy to Calypso All the Way to the Bahamas

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 12:00:01 -0500

Shimmy to Calypso All the Way to the Bahamas!

Imagine this: white, powdery sands, clear turquoise waters, cool breeze, swaying palm trees, warm smiles and Jazzy, relaxing Calypso music. Makes you want to jump on the next plane and go on a self-proclaimed holiday, right?

The beautiful Bahamas, with its two thousand islands, rolling hills and mountains coupled with friendly locals and then delectable local dishes from the freshest seafood plus subtropical climate; it’s hard not to fall in love with this country.

Exploring the Bahamas

The Seas

When you think of the Bahamas, you immediately think of its beautiful stretches of beaches. Therefore, upon arriving in the country, one’s first instinct is to hit the beaches right away.

The Grand Bahama Island is without a doubt the most popular island destination in the Bahamas because of its caves and cays, reefs and white-sands beaches.

If you wish to see the country’s best example of its ecosystems, then the Grand Bahama Island is where you should certainly go.

Bahamas Vacation Getaway | Holiday To The Bahamas

Dominican Republic Travel Tips

The Lucayan National Park in the Grand Bahama Island showcases all of the archipelago’s 6 types of ecosystems.

You can go inside the island’s famous limestone cave – considered as among the longest underwater caves of its type in the world, or you can loll by the beach and enjoy the view.

For water sports, you can go diving, snorkeling or sailing.

If you wish to swim with dolphins, head to Nassau where you will find Paradise Island. Within Paradise Island is Blue Lagoon Island, a private island that offers close encounters with dolphins in their natural habitat.

You and the kids will definitely enjoy swimming with the dolphins and playing with the sea lions.

Top Island Destinations | Holiday To The Bahamas

Caribbean All Inclusive Trips

Land Adventures

After your encounter with the dolphins and the sea lions, why not get to meet some more animals but this time, on land?

In Nassau, there is the Ardastra Gardens, Zoo and Conservation Centre. Located in Western New Providence, this tourist hotspot is home to the island’s famous marching flamingos. The flamingos are trained and “march” to the orders of their trainer during a show.

After your close-up with the flamingos, explore the zoo where you will see various animals, reptiles and birds.

Museums, landmarks and shops are also worth a visit in Nassau.

The Grand Bahama Island meanwhile is the perfect spot for bird watching. Bird enthusiasts will have a field day watching both resident and migratory birds. Among the resident birds are barn owl, great blue heron, mangrove cuckoo and blue-gray gnatcatcher.

Migratory birds include a variety of warblers and orioles plus Eastern kingbird and Pectoral sandpiper. You may also come across some of Bahamas’ endemic birds such as the Bahama swallow, Bahama yellowthroat and the Bahama woodstar.

Junkanoo Festival

Junkanoo is the most popular festival in the archipelago. It’s a parade of sorts where locals and tourists shimmy to the beat of the bongos of Calypso music, with good helpings of Soca and Rake & Scrape music for good measure.

The festival takes place twice per year, in most towns in the Bahamas. Junkanoo is enjoyed every Boxing Day which is the day after Christmas Day and New Year’s.

Bahamas Vacation Getaway | Holiday To The Bahamas

Island Hopping Caribbean

In the Grand Bahama Island however, Junkanoo is also celebrated during summer.

Colorful and elaborate costumes and dances that tell a story are only some of the highlights of the festival. The start of the festival is signaled by lively street dancing that starts at about two in the morning and lasts up to ten of the same morning.

Charlie is a free lancer writer and content builder of http://www.everydayguide.com/ and has written many articles for travel blogs.

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Five Best National Parks in Costa Rica

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:59:55 -0500

Five Best National Parks in Costa Rica

With over a quarter of its land dedicated to parks and ecological reserves, Costa Rica has more parkland than any other nation. In 1970 this small national began a rigorous program to set aside its special places. For the visitor it comes down to deciding on the type of nature you want to experience, and then finding the closest park.

#1 Parque Nacional Volcán Poás – A volcano conveniently near the city.

Parque Nacional Volcán Poás is only a couple of hours from San Juan, but seems like a another planet. In the 8,900-foot high, mile-wide crater, a green sulfuric lake bubbles and sprays lava, creating geyers up to 590 feet high.

Caribbean Costa Rica | Where To Visit In Costa Rica

My Vacation to Costa Rica

On my visit the summit was obscured by fog, but the unworldly landscapes, cloud forest, the hummingbirds and rare Poás Squirrels made it worthwhile.

Tours from San Jose are easily arranged at any hotel.

#2 Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio – A compact jungle teeming with life.

Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast is a concentrated coastal jungle, home to 109 species of mammals, 184 species of birds, and dozens of reptiles. Also there are whales, porpoises, seals and tropical fish off the beautiful beaches.

The best way to see it is with a guide who knows where the creatures are and carries a telescope to view and photograph them. You’ll see Howler, Whiteface, and Squirrel Monkeys, Sloths, Green and Black Spiny Iguanas, Basilisks, Agoutis (giant rodents), Toucans and a wide variety of tropical birds.

#3 Parque Nacional Cahuta – Caribbean coral reef and jungle.

A tropical jungle, alive with pacas, armadillos, sloths, iguanas, and monkeys, plays second banana to Cahuta’s main attraction: 240 hectares of coral reef. You can scuba or snorkel among brain coral and sea fan coral that is home to 500 species of fish, including Parrotfish, Striped Zebra Fish, Puffers, and Groupers.

Cahuta Park is 40 minutes from Limon, and three hours from San Jose. You can stay at Cahuta village outside the park gate, or in nearby Puerto Viejo.

Costa Rica Adventure | Where To Visit In Costa Rica

Vacation Tips

#4 Parque Nacional Tortuguergo – Sea turtles, mangrove swamp, and jungle.

This section of Caribbean Costa Rica is reserved for nesting sea turtles along a coastline inundated with waterways through mangrove swamp and jungle. Giant Leatherback Turtles, Green Sea and Hawksbill Turtles find this these beaches ideal for egg laying. You can also see manatees, caiman, crocodiles, frogs, monkeys, and a myriad of birds. The best way is from a boat, and tour boats are based in Tortuguera Village which is accessible by sea from Limon or by small plane from San Jose.

Caribbean Costa Rica | Costa Rica Adventure

Volunteer Vacations

#5 Reserva Biologica Bosque Nubosso Monteverde – Cloud forest bird watcher’s heaven.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is ideal habitat to 2,500 species of flora and fauna. There are over 400 types of orchids alone. Only 160 people are permitted into the park at any time. You may see dozens of types of hummingbirds and maybe even the rare Resplendent Quetazal.

Hiring a naturalist guide will guarantee you won’t miss a thing, not matter how elusive or well camouflaged.

To arrange a visit to any of these national parks, contact South American Vacations , a specialist in trips to Costa Rica .

Haunted Prague City Breaks

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 11:59:49 -0500

Haunted Prague City Breaks

From Medieval Bohemia and the prosperous reign of Charles IV in the 14^th Century, to the fall of the communist regime during the Velvet Revolution, Prague has a rich and complex history. The capital of the Czech Republic is famous for its historical bridges, the massive Prague Castle and its wealth of museums and galleries. The winding cobbled streets of Prague are popular with tourists looking for a city steeped in a culture that goes back to 9^th Century. So it’s unsurprising that a city with so much history has so many ghost stories and legends.

Turk of Ungelt

Next to the Church of Our Lady Tyn in Old Town, there are a number of buildings surrounding a space known as Ungelt Courtyard. Back in the 12^th Century this square was where the merchants from other countries sold their foreign wares to the people of Prague. It is said that a young Turkish merchant haunts this area. The legend goes that he was betrothed to the daughter of an inn-keeper, but she loved someone else. In a jealous rage, the Turk cut off her head, and people say that the Turk of Ungelt can be seen haunting the courtyard, holding his fiancée’s head in his hands.

The 27 Noblemen

A true and rather gruesome story of Prague is the execution of the 27 Noblemen that took part in the Uprising of the Estates. The noblemen were all public ally executed in 1621; 24 were beheaded and three were hung until they died. Of the 24 decapitated men, 12 heads were hung from the Charles Bridge in iron baskets. One of the heads was returned to the widow of the noblemen after a year on public display, but the other heads remained swinging on the bridge for two decades! The ghosts of the noblemen are said to rise from their graves to visit Old Town Square and check that all is well in the city of Prague.

Haunted Prague | What To See In Prague

Halloween Holidays

Skeleton of Jansk ý Vr š ek

One of the favourite ghost legends of Prague is the Skeleton of Janský Vršek Street. A spooky black coach is said to ride down the street, pulled by snorting black horses. The occupant of the coach is a headless skeleton covered in flames. Legend says that once the coach reaches the end of the street, the whole thing disappears into the ground. If you don’t spot the skeleton in real life, you can see a re-enactment of the ghostly visit in Prague’s very own Ghost Museum.

Haunted Prague | Prague City Break

City Breaks

Find Out More

Prague has a dedicated Ghost Museum with scary models of the city’s most famous ghost legends, and companies run ghost tours of the city. But if you’re strapped for cash, print off a free map of Prague from lowcostholidays.com. The map shows the route to take to see the famous ghost sights and a free guide to the stories, too. Find and print the Prague Ghost maps here.

Tuscany’s Heritage: The Legacy of the Medici Family

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 03:14:31 -0500

Tuscany’s Heritage: The Legacy of the Medici Family

Visiting Tuscany is a treat for travellers. You get to experience natural beauty, the highest concentration of renaissance art in the world which is still protected in its place of birth, as well as stunning architecture, and the amazing wine and food for the region. What you might not realise is just how much of this is thanks to one Italian ruling family: the Medici family.

They shaped what we know as Tuscany and changed the landscape of Florence. Following their arrival on the stage of Florence over five hundred years ago, they brought forth a massive output of fine art, architecture and even science, thanks to their support and patronage.

Visiting Tuscany | Best Time To Visit Tuscany

Southern Italy Tours

The Family Held Art in Highest Regard

The family rose to power in Florence in the 15th century. Giovanni Medici set up the famous Medici Bank in the heart of the city, bringing with it the double ledger system that’s the basis of all modern business, and the advocacy of proportional taxes depending on earnings. The great success and popularity of the family lead them to become basically the heads of the city, and then the region of Tuscany, in the same century.

From this position the family began to devote money to architectural restoration in the city, and the patronage of individual artists. These conditions, which suddenly meant talented artists were of great worth and had time and freedom to devote to their best possible efforts, lead directly to the Florentine Renaissance. From there the renaissance spread across Europe. It’s hard to emphasise just how important this was to the development of Europe and European ideas.

The whole culture up until this point was trapped in the shadow of Classical achievements. The common feeling was that true civilisation had passed, and that what was left was meagre survival and waiting for the apocalypse. The Medici’s investment in art and progress meant that suddenly there was a symbol of things being done better than ever, right in the heart of the continent. This feeling of optimism and ambition fed directly into the modern age.

Visiting Tuscany | Places To Visit In Tuscany

Tips For Traveling to Italy

Medici Patronage Included Some of the Greatest Artists of the Era

Medici patronage at one time or another included Donatello, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, which speaks for itself. Without a rich patron artists couldn’t make much of a living in these times. It’s also remarkable that Galileo, one of the most important scientists of the early modern age, was employed by the Medici family as a home tutor, and was protected from execution by their influence when he proposed that Earth was not the centre of the universe.

Not everyone welcomed the wealth and lavish investment of the Medici family, and in fact a lot of the work they patronised was destroyed by puritans in the famous bonfire of the vanities, or decried by critics later as too grotesque in its splendour, but it’s undeniable that the central attractions of Florence today – the Uffizi and the Belvedere to name two – would not have been possible without them. And many of the greatest works that they contain owe tribute to that family too.

Thanks to Eddie Reason for this post. Eddie loves to visit Tuscany and blogs regularly about his visits to the various Tuscany villas.

10 of the Most Unusual Amazonian Species

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 15:24:56 -0500

10 of the Most Unusual Amazonian Species

The Amazon rainforest is maybe the most famous ecosystem in the world. It covers 1.4 billion acres of South America and represents over half of all the tropical rainforest left on Earth. One tenth of all living species call the Amazon home which makes it the most biodiverse region in the world. The dense jungle is accessible to visitors in many countries including Peru, Brazil and Colombia and even a brief visit may yield an unforgettable encounter. Here are ten unusual species very lucky travelers may see when they visit the region.

Capybara

This chubby, sweet-faced mammal is the size of a small dog and is most often found keeping cool on riverbanks or taking a swim in the water. The capybara is the largest rodent in the world and often hangs out in groups, grazing and relaxing.

Animals of the Amazon | Animals in the Amazon Forest

South American Holidays

Cinchona

Long used by native people for a variety of medicinal purposes, the cinchona tree became famous around the world when Spanish Jesuit missionaries learned of it's anti-malarial properties and began exporting it to Europe. Quinine, the active compound, became indispensable for Europeans building empires in malarial climates and, infused in a tincture, was the predecessor to modern tonic water.

Leaf Cutter Ants

These insects live in large colonies and gather bits of plants and leaves which they don't consume but instead use to cultivate a nutritious fungus on the decomposing vegetation. It is fairly common to witness parades of ants traveling long distances, up and down trees and across trails, each insect carrying a bright scrap of leaf.

Volunteering In Peru

Andean Cock of the Rock

This stunning and exceedingly rare creature is the national bird of Peru. Known for distinctive red and black plummage, the feathers on it's head sweep forward in a pompadour so large the beak is almost completely hidden.

Sloth

The sloth may be fairly well-known but they are rarely seen due to their remarkable camouflage. In the humidity of the forest, algae growing on their fur helps them blend even more with their green surroundings. The aptly-named, slow-moving mammal spends most of it's life in the treetops and travels to the forest floor as little as once a week.

Giant River Otter

The largest member of the weasel family, these playful otters range from 3 to 5.5 feet in length. Notoriously shy, you may hear them hunting and swimming in gregarious family groups in the early morning or later afternoon on the quiet oxbow lakes of the Amazon region.

Destinations In Argentina

The Triplaria tree and Pseudomyrmex ants

These are two species which go by many different local names and have formed a unique symbiotic relationship. Sometimes called the ant tree or novice tree in Spanish or Portuguese, these trees are inhabited and fiercely protected by colonies of venomous ants who feed harmlessly on substances the tree produces. Traveling up and down the trunk and the surrounding forest floor, the ants will swarm and mercilessly bite any insect, animal or even human which touches the tree. There are old stories of wrongdoers being tied to the trees as punishment.

Bullet Ant

This fearsome insect is bigger and meaner than your regular picnic intruder. Up to 1.2 inches long and jet black, these ants get their name because their bite supposedly hurts as much as a bullet wound. In some areas, locals refer to them as hormiga veinticuatro, or 24-hour ant, for the amount of time the excruciating pain will last.

Animals of the Amazon | Animals in the Amazon Forest

Uruguay Vacation

Harpy Eagle

Another rare bird, the harpy eagle is a striking black, white and gray raptor with an imposing beak and long talons. Named for a mythological Roman beast, these birds have a distinctive double crest and collar of feathers which it can ruffle majestically.

You can witness some of these species and many, many more during a tour of Manu at the Tambo Blanquillo Manu lodge .

Centennial Canada

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 07:15:08 -0500

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - The centennial flame has been perpetually burning since 1967
when it was created to commemorate Canadas 100th anniversary as a confederation.
The flame is surrounded by the shields of the Canadian provinces and territories.

The National Gallery

Parliament Hill
In Ottawa

Rideau Canal Skateway

Helsinki - A City of Architecture and Wide Open Spaces

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 07:53:28 -0500

When planning a city break, for many people it often seems that the focus is on Central Europe and the countries around the Mediterranean. However, don’t neglect Northern Europe, as it hides many gems, all waiting to be explored. A prime example is Helsinki. The capital of Finland, Helsinki was founded in 1550 as a competitor for Tallinn with regards to Baltic Sea trade. As you see the city for yourself, you will appreciate how the streets are steeped in centuries of history, which is reflected in the architecture.

Helsinki isn’t just about historic buildings though, contemporary buildings also nestle within the city and this year it won the title of World Design Capital.

Helsinki Attractions | City Guide Helsinki

Holiday Villa Portugal

A Mix Of Influences

While Nordic minimalism is typical of the city’s architecture, Uspenski Cathedral – Western Europe’s largest Orthodox Church – is a fine example of Byzantine-Russian architecture, which is a feature of Helsinki. The area around Senate Square displays examples of Neo-classical architecture, while elsewhere in the city you can enjoy buildings in the Art Nouveau style; Helsinki boasts the largest density of Art Nouveau in Northern Europe.

Newer buildings include the Museum of Contemporary Art Kiasma – located in the city centre - and the High Tech Centre, which can be found in the Ruoholahti district.

See The City By Tram

Although Helsinki’s compact size makes it very amenable to explore on foot, the city has a good tram network and this is an alternative way to see the city. For example taking tramline 4 allows visitors to experience the wide array of architectural styles that Helsinki has to offer.

Starting in the Katajanokka district, visit Uspenski Cathedral and take in the Art Nouveau buildings; a former prison here has also been converted into a hotel.

The nearby Senate Square is famous for its buildings designed by Carl Ludvig Engel in the mid 19th century. Here you can visit the 160 year old Helsinki Cathedral, which is probably Finland’s most famous building. Like the other buildings around the square, its design was based - with some modifications - on the Empire style of architecture seen in St Petersburg. While here also take time to look at the Government Palace, the main building of the University of Helsinki and the National Library of Finland; Sederholm House, the oldest stone building in the city, is also located on the square.

Helsinki Attractions | City Guide Helsinki

Weekend In Barcelona

Getting back on the tram, your onward journey takes you to Kiasma Contemporary Art Museum, where you can immerse yourself in art from the 1960’s; work by artists from Scandinavia, the Baltic and Russia can all be seen. Take the short walk to Parliament House, which was completed in 1931.

This granite building with its imposing columns is impressive from the outside, but visitors can also take a tour of its interior; of note are the entrance lobby, marble stair cases, the paternoster lifts, the Session Hall and the Hall of State.

Back on the tram again, you are taken to Finlandia Hall; completed in 1975, it is an impressive sight and is aside from its financial and political function, is also host to cultural events. One tram stop away is the National Opera House; situated close to a bay and completed in 1993, this is an example of modern Finnish architecture at its best.

Even if you are not there to see a performance, the building is still well worth a visit.

Other Attractions

This tram journey will only have given you a glimpse of what Helsinki has to offer. If your trip to Kiasma has whetted your appetite for further art, there are exhibits displayed in a further 27 museums and galleries around the city. There are also a range of other museums in Helsinki, where visitors can learn more about its past and the history of Finland as a whole; for nature lovers the Natural History Museum is a must.

Helsinki Attractions | What To do in Helsinki

If however you feel that you would prefer to spend some time outdoors, you are in luck, as a third of the city is devoted to green space. Kaivopuisto Park overlooks the sea and is an ideal place for a lunch stop. Meanwhile a visit to the Winter, Botanical or Tropical Gardens allows you to take in a diverse range of plants from around the globe.

Between November and March visitors can also enjoy ice skating at Railway Square. There are numerous other attractions geared towards younger members of the family – notably Helsinki’s zoo and aquarium – so everyone is catered for on a trip to Helsinki.

Lucy writes travel articles for a number of UK blogs and sites. Europe's historic cities are always her favourite destinations.

Kuala Lumpur - The Jewel in South East Asia Crown

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 01:17:57 -0500

In 2011 Kuala Lumpur became the world's sixth most popular tourist destination. When you consider this cities wonderfully diverse culture, its stunning architecture, delightful cuisine and the lead it takes in the regions technology and commerce, it is not difficult to understand why. It has developed from a small tin mining community into a city that reflects the achievements of its inhabitants and offers the visitor a wide range of activities and cultural experiences.

Enjoying 21st Century Kuala Lumpur

For those looking to enjoy all the sights and sounds of a modern 21st century city Kuala Lumpur has plenty to offer. The city has quickly gained a reputation as a shopper's paradise. Those seeking some retail therapy will find exactly what they need by visiting one of the cities impressive malls. They have been built on a grand scale and offer high end designer brands as well as the opportunity to pick up a bargain. You will also find that the colorful street markets offer a chance to find some unique souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Traveling In Malaysia | A Trip To Malaysia

Attractions In Hong Kong

Kuala Lumpur also offers some of the most modern and innovative architecture you will find anywhere on the planet. Indeed the Petronas towers are considered to be a wonder of the modern age. A trip to the top of the towers to visit the observation deck is a must for those interested in modern architecture. Even if architecture is not your thing, the trip allows you to take advantage of the telescopes provided, to enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the whole city.

A Food Lovers Paradise

Kula Lumpur has developed a fusion of eastern and western cultures in its delicious cuisine. This mixture has given the city a reputation as one of the great destinations for gastronomes everywhere. From the exotic food available in the cities night markets to some of the best restaurants found anywhere. From delightful dumplings, Roti Canai and the famous Nasi Lemak, to the wonderful array of tropical fruits such as the durian and dragon fruits. For those with more adventurous tastes a visit to the vibrant Chow Kit area is also a must. Indeed whatever your taste in food you are sure to find something to delight your taste buds in one of the world’s true food capitals.

A Spiritual Escape

Although Kuala Lumpur is a bustling metropolis, it also offers the opportunity to examine its more spiritual side. The many mosques, whose architecture is influenced by several different cultures, are a must see for those interested in religious buildings. The famous dome of the National Mosque is a truly stunning and unique feature. A visit here should definitely be on your to do list and you will be awe struck by both its size and wonderful design.

For those fascinated by temples then Batu Caves should be on your itinerary. The 42 meter statue of Murugan, a popular Hindu deity, stands outside the caves and is truly an amazing sight. You will also find drawings in the cave which depict the story of another Hindu god, Rama. Once you have taken in the wonderful sights to be found in and around the temple you can then make the long climb up to the temple caves themselves. The biggest and most impressive is the Cathedral Cave; here you will discover vast ceilings and ornate Hindu shrines.

Traveling In Malaysia | Discover Malaysia

Fiji Vacations

Get Back to Nature

Unlike many other destinations Kuala Lumpur has long since understood the importance of the natural world. This can be seen by paying a visit to the Forest Research nature reserve found just outside of the city itself. Established for around a hundred years it offers the visitor the opportunity to experience the natural flora and fauna of the region. Indeed the reserve contains as many as 15,000 different species of plants and animals.

One truly amazing experience when visiting the reserve is the famous canopy walk. This walk stands 30 meters high and weaves its way through 200 meters at tree top level. This gives an incredible opportunity to take in all the wonders of the nature reserve as well as affording magnificent views of the city of Kuala Lumpur itself.

So whether you are looking for the excitement of a modern city, the culture and diversity of an ancient civilization, the opportunity to experience amazing food, or have a desire to recharge you spiritual batteries and get back to nature, Kuala Lumpur offers it all to the discerning traveler. No wonder it is on its way to becoming the go to destination for millions of people all over the world. If you too are looking for the experience of a lifetime, then Kuala Lumpur just might offer exactly what you are looking for.

John Chen is a travel writer currently located in Bangkok, Thailand.

You can find lots of different accommodations in Kuala Lumpur online. Many people instead of hotels choose to stay in nice apartments in Kuala Lumpur instead of staying in hotels.

Traveling Around The World

How Should You Tip In Different Countries

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 15:44:23 -0500

Image: jm3

One of the main problems we all face when going abroad is how exactly to tip – not just how much, but how. It's easy enough to say 15% for a waiter – but what if that waiter is confused when you leave your money on the table, or feels insulted when you tell him to "keep the change"?

This guide is designed to help you circumvent all the pitfalls of tipping in some of the more exotic holiday destinations.

Japan

In general, in Japan you shouldn't tip.

There are cases where it is appropriate to leave a small gift or other token of appreciation, but leaving a tip will be considered at best amusing, usually vulgar, and at worst downright insulting (what, you think my job pays so little I need charity?).

Fortunately, being exposed to more than a few unaware parties of businessmen or stag do’s means that you are no longer risking quite so much confusion by offering a tip in Japan.

It's still to be avoided, though, and if you absolutely feel that the service was so good that you have to leave a tip – leave a gift instead.

How Much You Should Tip | How Much To Tip Waitresses

India

In India, you have a fair amount of discretion as to who to tip, what for, and when. In general, though, it is manual labour that is tipped, as a reward for exertion – which seems fair enough!

Tipping typically starts at a dollar or so, but should rise in accordance with the quality and quantity of service – how many bags have been carried, for instance.

At upscale bars and restaurants, though, you should expect to tip between ten and fifteen percent.

Brazil

It is almost unheard of to not leave a tip of about ten percent in Brazil. Perhaps if service is bad you might chop five percent or so off the figure, but you should seriously consider paying extra if the service is excellent.

Why?

Well, word on the street in Brazil is that it's the restaurant and hotel owners who pocket all the money, rather than the staff you wanted to reward! So make doubly sure that excellent waiter can at least snaffle some cash for his troubles, and be prepared to pay a touch more than standard for quality service.

How Much You Should Tip | Tip Your Server

Adventures in South America

Australia

Since the minimum wage is relatively high in Australia, waiting and serving staff don't rely on tips to the same extent as in other countries, tipping is rare.

Keep your tips back for exceptional service, or for upmarket places. Try tipping by allowing staff to keep the change, if you feel bad leaving no tip at all.

And be careful!

Tipping people in the wrong places, for instance casinos, can be considered bribery. You might be kicked out of a casino by the owners in some states, while in others it could become a matter for the law!

It just goes to show how important doing your research is when it comes to tipping.

Exotic?!

Of course, this being the internet, for many of you these places will not be exotic at all – they'll be home, or next-door neighbours!

But wherever you go you’ll now know without needing to take on the finest the town has to offer just to negotiate all the complicated etiquette.

So, would you like to know about a particular country's typical tips?

Ask me in the comments section and I'll do my best to get back to you!

James Duval writes blog posts for Choose Your Accountants, a way to find accountants in your area for free, online.

Why Now Is A Great Time To Visit Europe

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 00:49:55 -0500

Why now is a great time to visit Europe

If you've always wanted to visit Europe but worried about the expense, now is a great time to make that trip. Due to the economic downturn in Europe, especially in countries such as Greece, Spain, Italy and Ireland, the exchange rate is in Americans' favour and you can experience all the tourist attractions and local traditions for a very reasonable price.

Because less people are travelling to and within Europe, travel companies are offering much more competitive deals to tempt visitors to use their services. This means you can stay in luxury hotels and get first class travel for the amount of money you might normally spend on a budget holiday, especially in the more severely affected countries.

With less tourists around, you also won't have to fight against so many backpack-laden, camera-wielding foreigners to get a glimpse of the Acropolis or the Sistine Chapel!

Most Popular Tourist Destinations In Europe | Top European Destinations

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

According to research by The Huffington Post earlier this year tourist attractions in Greece, one of the countries which has been hit worst by economic problems, are still open and busy, but not as crowded as usual. Tickets for tours of Greece and Athens are selling out, and although the locals' troubles are evident they are still welcoming visitors warmly to ensure they keep their tourist trade alive and well. In fact, they are generally very thankful to visitors for supporting the Greek economy in its time of need.

Greece is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe due to its fantastic sights and fascinating history, in addition to its sunny weather and relaxed, friendly culture. Famous sights such as the Parthenon and the Delphi Theatre are must-sees during a visit to Greece, but holiday-makers should also take the opportunity to visit some of the beautiful Greek islands such as Crete and Corfu.

Most Popular Tourist Destinations | Top European Destinations

Avli Lounge Apartments Greece

Another country which has faced tough economic problems over the past few years is Ireland. Because fewer Irish people are travelling abroad or booking expensive hotels, more are going on holiday within Ireland which means that tourist attractions are able to open as usual. There are also more budget hotels and special offers available, to encourage Irish people and foreign visitors to holiday in Ireland.

Ireland offers a perfect holiday mixture of country and city. If you book a holiday in the Irish capital city, Dublin, you can also visit more traditional country villages and even spend a day at the beach during your trip. Ireland isn't too well known for its local cuisine, but you can't go home without trying a proper pint of Guinness at a traditional Irish pub. If you really want to experience the Irish spirit, book a holiday around St Patrick's Day, where the country comes alive with parades and street parties.

Ireland offers a perfect holiday mixture of country and city. If you book a holiday in the Irish capital city, Dublin, you can also visit more traditional country villages and even spend a day at the beach during your trip.

Despite the tense times depicted in the news, you shouldn't be put off travelling to countries suffering in the economic crisis. In fact, now is the most important time to show them your support and help inject some money back into their tourist trade.

Most Popular Tourist Destinations | Top European Destinations

Perfect Holiday

Written by Kat Kraetzer, a passionate traveller and experienced travel writer. If you want to make your trip even cheaper, have a look through the various European tour packages online – they’ll guarantee you a great deal wherever you decide to go!

Rwanda Travel

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 17:06:49 -0500

Caribbean Sailing Schooner

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski - Highlighting the African country of Rwanda

African Holiday

Vacation to Africa

I Left My Heart ..

The Best Destinations for Chartering a Yacht

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 17:06:02 -0500

As far as luxury vacations are concerned, few experiences can match the excitement and opulence of chartering a private yacht. Yachts are very expensive and a good model can cause a sizable dent in even the deepest pockets. As a result, yacht rentals are by far the most popular option for those seeking to escape out into the sea in extreme luxury. There are a number of destinations that you can choose from to rent a yacht at. However, only a few of these destinations are truly outstanding. Here are the top destinations in the world for chartering a yacht:

Hawaii, USA

Whenever people think of chartering a yacht in the Americas, the most obvious destination that first comes to mind is the Caribbean. However, it is a huge mistake to ignore the Hawaiian Islands as the perfect yacht charter destination. Hawaii is very popular as a hub for water sports and everything else good about the island often slips under the radar. This is actually good news for tourists.

Yacht rental and charter companies offer amazing discounts to lure tourists away from their Caribbean counterparts. However, do not think that you are getting any less of an experience simply because you are paying less. Hawaii is beautiful in its own right and offers something different for those who are tired of cruising around in the Caribbean.

Yacht Rental | Caribbean Yacht Charter

Hawaii is also acts as a great base from where you can set off to explore some of the uninhabited islands of the Pacific in your luxurious yacht.

New Zealand

Most people are shocked to learn that New Zealand has a very active and vibrant yachting scene. However, it is not so far-fetched for New Zealand to be a perfect destination to charter yachts from. During summer, when its winter in the Northern hemisphere, New Zealand experiences some of the best weather in the world and the conditions are perfect for a cruise around the South Pacific.

Just like Hawaii, New Zealand can be used as a base to go out and explore the Polynesian islands and indulge in a bit of scuba diving or snorkeling from the comfort of your own private yacht.

Yacht Rental | Caribbean Yacht Charter

Island Hopping Caribbean

With most of the yacht rentals in the area originating from Australia, renters can find amazing deals from New Zealand cities that will allow you to rent much bigger yachts for the same cost.

The Mediterranean Sea

Admittedly, including the Mediterranean Sea in this list is a bit f a cop-out. However, it cannot be denied that the list would be very incomplete without including this European jewel in it. The whole concept of luxury yachts being the ultimate display of power and wealth originated from the dockyards in the Mediterranean.

Chartering a yacht from anywhere on the coastlines not only lets you be a part of that lifestyle, it is one of the best ways to explore Europe as you yacht makes its way through the shores of various European counties, stopping at different ports.

No matter where you are, chartering a yacht is always a very special occasion. However you can make that moment extra special by renting the yacht from one of these beautiful destinations.

Toni Dee is a travel blogger and gives holiday tips on his website www.mega.co.uk/eurocamp/. You can visit his website for disounts coupons and much more.

Peru Volunteer Opportunities

Sat, 20 Oct 2012 17:05:49 -0500

Anybody who has ever volunteered anywhere can tell you that this can be a deeply rewarding experience – without expectation of compensation, one can be driven purely by the pleasure of completing daily tasks, while helping to empower others, often living in disadvantaged and poor countries, such as Peru.

The types of volunteering work with most community impact are those where you can teach the locals skills applicable in their daily lives, which they can then pass on to others. So a good way to start your search for volunteer positions in Peru, would be to look at the skill-set you’ve already got and would like to share, against the skills needed in the region you are planning to visit.

Volunteering In Peru | Volunteer Peru

Volunteer Vacations

When it comes to Peru, the hardest part is probably deciding just where you would like to have your volunteering experience: the lush rainforests of the awe-inspiring Amazon basin, the magnificent mountaintop villages of the Andes, the amazing Lake Titicaca or by the beach.

Project-based Volunteering

Many communities, in conjunction with volunteer organisations, will start a particular project, and send out a call for volunteers with a particular skill set. For example, many rural communities with limited access to resources are now opting for sustainable food growing methods, such as holistic and organic permaculture gardening.

If this is part of your skill-set, the possibilities for travel and passing your in-demand skills on are growing every day! There are also many conservation, building and infrastructure as well as social service projects going on, so there is bound to be an area that suits both your interests and skills.

There are organisations who charge you to volunteer in Peru as well, which is another way to funnel resources into the region, however I would recommend a thorough research of them before you commit. There are plenty of local organisations that offer the volunteering experience for free or at a much lower cost to choose from.

Volunteering In Peru | Volunteer Opportunities in Peru

Best Restaurant In Peru

WWOOFing

Another option to ease yourself into volunteer work is to consider WWOOFing. Willing Workers on Organic Farms is a membership-based organisation allowing you to stay with a farming family on a short or longer term basis and help out for a few hours a day with gardening and assorted tasks in exchange for food and board.

This allows you the free time and flexibility to take in the sights, while also getting to know the local customs and way of life in a more in-depth manner. Sometimes this can be a good way to get to know a particular region and check out any local volunteer organisations and how they work before committing yourself to working with them long term.

It’s an extremely rewarding (and a little addictive) way to travel while giving back to the local communities along the way. And if you can’t speak Spanish yet, this is guaranteed to change!

Citations:

cc licence flickr photo by amazoncares

Patricia Bieszk+ is a freelance writer who loves to travel and contribute where she can as an avid wwoofer.Whatever you decide to do, you are unlikely to regret your decision to travel to Peru and volunteer.

The National Gallery of Canada

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 04:37:33 -0500

Canada Wonderland

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - is a must see when visiting the nations Capital. The giant
spider sculpture titled Maman, for mother in french, was created by Louise Bourgeois.

Top 3 Halloween Holidays

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 04:37:27 -0500

Halloween is a time for scary costumes and frightening shocks, mounds of sweets and spooky stories. And while you can find all of these things at home, there are selections of places abroad that go crazy for Halloween and really take the festivities to another level around this time of year. So if you feel like getting involved in these frightening festivities, here is a list of the top three places to holiday for Halloween.

Mexico – Day of the Dead

The Mexican Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is actually a 3 day holiday. The true Day of the Dead is on November the 2nd, but the tradition has evolved to include November the 1st and October the 31st. October the 31st is the best day to go if you’re looking for some Halloween holiday fun, as it is all about fun and games, whereas the next two days are more sombre, and used to respect the dead. Traditions of this day include building private alters, decorated with sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favourite food and beverages of the deceased. The sight of all of these colourful and tasty offerings is truly amazing. The best thing about this holiday though, is the festivals. The celebratory, part atmosphere is mainly found in the south of Mexico, in places like Michoacan, Oaxaca and Chiapas. These states become bright, colourful homes of Halloween spirit, with hundreds of people walking around wearing peculiar masks and costumes.

Transylvania – The Home Of Dracula

What better place to celebrate Halloween abroad than in the Draculas hometown? Due to the massive interest in Dracula, several Halloween tours have become available that show you around the area and all things Dracula related. My personal favourite is the ‘Halloween in Transylvania with Vlad the Impaler’ tour, which is packed with spooky highlights to give you a real all-round Halloween experience. You will find yourself taking an interesting exploration of Dracula’s birthplace, the Saxon Citadel of Sighisoara, learning plenty of interesting facts in the best preserved citadel in Europe.

At the same time, you will also have the opportunity to have a Halloween party at the citadel, where you will consume a delicious Romanian festive dinner, try fiery spirits, drink excellent wine and take in a special Halloween programme. Transylvania truly has the full range of opportunity on offer for a top quality Halloween break.

U.S.A – Salem haunted Happenings

Salem is probably the spookiest town in America and it takes Halloween deadly serious. ‘Salem Haunted Happenings’ is their celebration annual celebration of Halloween and it lasts all throughout October. If you want to truly experience the best though, I would recommend going on the actual day of Halloween, where all of the preparations and events come to a climax. There are 25 events going on throughout the day of Halloween, with something for all the family; from parades to psychic fares and costume balls to haunted houses. One of my personal favourites is the Haunted Harbour Cruise, which is a one and a half hour tour with spooky stories about the haunted happenings of Salem Sound. Another favourite, is the Devilish Night at Rockafellas, where can party the night away surrounded by some ghoulish costumes; but don’t forget to wear yours, the best ones get a $300 prize. I like to finish off the night in Salem by going to fireworks finale, where you can celebrate the end of another great Halloween with some truly spectacular fireworks, over the North River.

These are just my top selection of some of the best Halloween holiday destinations, there are loads out there. But remember, if you do decide to go take a short break for Halloween, remember to pack some extra pants; it can be scarier than you think!

This guest blog was brought to you by Halloween enthusiast and travel writing globetrotter Kevin Burns. He writes on behalf of SkyParkSecure, who provide great deals on href="http://www.skyparksecure.com/airport-parking/manchester">cheap airport parking at airports all over the UK!

City of Water - How to Navigate Your Way Around Venice.

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 13:57:57 -0500

Venice, a city in Northern Italy, is thought to be one of the most elegant and romantic cities in the world. It spans several small islands in a marshy lagoon within the Adriatic Sea. It was an important centre of spice trade commerce and art during the Renaissance.

The city is a tangled maze of islets, canals and 435 bridges, but it is not as difficult to navigate as you might think. If you are going to be visiting Venice on your , here are some tips for finding your way around the city.

Southern Italy Travel

Walking

There are no cars in Venice as it is the world’s only pedestrian city. This makes it an ideal place to walk around as there are no traffic jams and no smog. The city is not very big and it is possible to walk from one end to the other in approximately one hour. One of the pleasures of visiting Venice on your Italian adventure will be strolling alongside the canals through the traffic-free streets and narrow medieval alleyways. This city has changed very little in the last 600 years and it has so much wonderful romantic architecture to get lost in.

Venice Canals | Italian Adventure

In order to truly experience Venice, it is recommended to simply start wandering in whatever direction suits your fancy and get completely lost in the winding streets. You are on an island so you won’t be able to get too far, but you will find yourself discovering the most beautiful hidden architecture, canals and artwork. When you have had your fill, you can ask for directions back to the main attractions such as San Marco or Rialto.

Sicily Tours

Public Transport

However, if you get tired of walking there are also some other options. The public transportation system in Venice is based on the water and it is very easy to use. Unfortunately, tickets for public transport can be expensive so it is important to know what you are doing so that you get the most for your money.

Vaporetto

The main form of public transport is the vaporetti or the water taxis. They are one of the best ways to get around and the typical fare for one journey is around 7 Euro. This can get expensive so if you are trying to save money you should try to walk to your destinations as much as possible. Taking a vaporetto every now and then can be a convenient way to get around and save time.

You can get a discount card which will save you money if you plan on being in Venice for more than a few days. These days, it is possible to book online for public transport which can make things cheaper than the on-site prices.

If you want to take a “cruise” down the Grand Canal to get the best overview of the city, the main vaporetto line is #1. It runs the length of the Grand Canal and stops between the train station and the Piazza San Marco, taking about an hour to go the entire way. This is a lovely way to see the sights and experience a ride on the canal.

Venice Canals | Italian Holiday

Traghetto

These boats are used to enable people to cross the Grand Canal at points where there isn’t a bridge spanning the water. They are a short crossing which simply takes you from one side of the canal to the other and most people stand up along the way. This can be very convenient, as sometimes you will want to get to the other side of the water without having to make your way to the nearest bridge. A traghetto crossing usually costs around 1-2 Euro. There is no need to book a ticket in advance, simply walk up to the gondolier and hand them the coins. The boats will not follow a set schedule; they will simply go back and forth across the river whenever they are full.

Gondola

Venice Travel Guide

When you imagine Venice, you probably picture these long and elegant boats being steered by a mustachioed man with a striped shirt who is serenading you in Italian. The truth is that this cliché experience will cost you a fortune. If your perfect Italian holiday really won’t be complete without going on a Gondola ride you can hire one, but this is definitely not a budget experience. You can expect to pay at least 80 Euros for a 40 minute ride, plus tip. Beware of gondola drivers who might attempt to charge you more.

These are just a few tips to keep in mind when you are making your way around Venice. Enjoy the timeless elegance of this beautiful city and the romantic atmosphere of its medieval buildings and canals.

Katie Latchford is an experienced travel writer blogging on behalf of Citalia.com who currently have some great savings on Italy Holidays 2013.

Best of Kenya In One Week

Wildlife Volunteering – There Is A Project For Everyone

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 15:45:33 -0500

Wildlife volunteering – there is a project for everyone

There are many different wildlife volunteering projects that you can take part in all over the world.

Lending your time to these projects means that there are more people recording data, taking pictures that can be compared and analyzed as well as helping to place trackers on the animals in question in order to understand how they live better. This is all essential to ensure that the species will be around for future generations and that the animals will live long and healthy lives.

When choosing a wildlife volunteering expedition you can pick based on two criteria; what animals you are interested in or where you want to travel. This article focuses on the latter.

Africa

The obvious choice for many when considering a wildlife volunteering holiday is going to Africa. Projects here most commonly focus on leopards, African elephants, cheetah and caracal. A popular country to go to is Namibia, where 45 % of the land is under some sort of protection. However, the country is also experiencing the burden of the human-wildlife conflict. The growing human population is continuously infringing on the habitat of the diverse wildlife which leads to predators praying on livestock.

Elephants are also being hunted for their destruction of human property. By volunteering in the area you can help gather data that is used to educate local populations about how they can live with the wildlife, as well as it being used to compare how the wildlife’s conditions are changing and how we can help preserve them.

Wildlife Volunteering | Volunteer Vacations

Europe

If you would like to take part in projects a bit closer to home, you might want to consider travelling to Slovakia. Here you can help with the conservation work taking place to help species such as the grey wolf, lunch, red deer, wildcat and wild boar. There is little research done involving the larger carnivores in the country and a lot of care is taken to solve the problems between an expanding population and the regions wildlife.

While being in the Slovakian forest you might also encounter brown bear and see golden eagles and ravens fly across the sky.

America

In South-America you can take part in the conservation work of jaguars, pumas, primates and other exotic features of the Amazon rainforest. Over 2000 species call the Amazon their home, including 300 species of mammals. This is almost a quarter of the world’s species. Much of the volunteer work in the area is based around tagging the wildcats such as the jaguar and the puma.

These are captured in human traps and quickly tagged before released. The data is used to get an image of their lives and habits. Another reason why these expeditions are so popular is the primates in the area, including the red uakari monkey, black spider monkey and pygmy marmoset.

Wildlife Volunteer Africa | Volunteer Vacations

Holiday in Montevideo

Australia

Australia is a diverse country and about 84 % of mammals are endemic. If you are looking to take part in a wildlife volunteering project in Australia you are most likely to head out to the Walpole Wilderness. This area has some interesting endangered species that desperately needs help.

The main species to study in the area are the quokka, the Western quoll or chuditch, quenda or Southern brown bandicoot. The animals you would study here are threatened by the introduction of foxes, cats and pigs. The loss of habitat as well as climate change is also reducing their numbers.

Asia

There are a number of popular destinations in Asia that offer wildlife volunteering opportunities. Whether you choose the Maldives or the Musandam Peninsula, this region is a diver’s paradise.

Wildlife Volunteering | Volunteer Vacations

Fiji Vacations

If you are a fully certified diver you have the qualifications necessary to take part in underwater wildlife conservation projects. These are often focused on species such as parrotfish, whale sharks and butterfly fish. Measurements of the coral reefs and close up pictures of the gorgeous fish will be important additions to the work performed by marine biologists. Diving into the water you might also encounter spinner dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles and black-tip reef sharks.

BIO: Ingunn writes about wildlife volunteering and other adventures around the world.

A Stress-Free Airport Experience

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 08:21:19 -0500

According to a recent survey, one in ten Britons avoids holidaying abroad because of the stress of airports and flying. Those of us who do brave the airport to get to that sunny holiday resort or indeed for business trips will be familiar with the stock airport worries: Do I have my boarding pass? My passport? Will I have enough time to get to the gate? What if my flight’s delayed? But flying doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. Here are a few things you can do to reduce stress levels when jetting off.

Before Your Flight Date

A few days before your flight, verify your flight details. There’s nothing worse than discovering at the airport that your flight was an hour earlier than you thought or that it leaves from a different terminal. Most airlines will allow you to check in online, so consider doing this in order to lower stress levels on the day.

Airport Experience | Airport Travel Tips

Summer Travel Tips

If you pack lightly, only bringing carry-on luggage, you can avoid queuing at desks in the airport altogether as well as not having to wait for your luggage when you arrive at your destination. Many people fret about forgetting things, so spend some time compiling a list of essential items a few days before your flight. You can then run through this list quickly before you leave your house to ensure that you have everything you need.

Getting There

How have you arranged to get to the airport? Don’t leave this decision to the last minute. Driving yourself to the airport will mean finding and paying for parking, as well as traffic considerations, so allow for this in your schedule on the day. If you opt for public transport, you will avoid expensive parking fees, but if you don’t want to be stuck waiting at a bus stop as your flight leaves without you, allow a lot of time to get the airport – anyone who takes public transport regularly will know how unreliable it can be.

Another more reliable option is a private airport transfer, which gives you all the comfort of driving without the hassle and expense of parking. Plus, as a passenger rather than the driver, you can relax in the back and ready yourself for your flight.

At The Airport

When you get to the airport, breathe. If you have followed the above advice, you will have everything you need and you won’t be stuck for time. Don’t let yourself get stressed out by the flurry of activity that you’ll be met with once you walk in the door. Remember that other people will probably be stressed out but their stress doesn’t have to affect you. Check your flight details, proceed through security and get to your gate.

Airport Experience | Airport Tips

Packing For a Trip

If you have access to an airline’s lounge, these can be havens of tranquillity, so consider whiling away the time before your flight there. If not, find a seat, sit back and read, listen to some music or simply watch people go by. What could be more relaxing?

This article was written by psychologist Thomas Conway on behalf of a lead provider of private airport transfers.

Easy Day Trips From Zadar Croatia

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:35:04 -0500

Easy day trips from Zadar

Zadar encapsulates the very best elements of Croatia’s sterling cities. It enjoys a beautiful coastal location, boasts a stunningly well preserved Old Town, all manner of entertainment at affordable prices and without the same influx of tourists as many of the other coastal cities. Impressive architecture and history abound and the lifestyle here celebrates some of the best things in life; good food and good company.

Whilst a trip to Zadar has more than enough to keep you occupied, it’s sometimes nice to escape the city limits and explore a bit further afield. With that in mind, here are some easy day trips from Zadar that are well worth considering…

Biograd

Located in northern Dalmatia and once the capital of medieval Croatia, the slight but attractive city of Biograd makes for an alternative and interesting day trip. Nestled on a small peninsula, the crystal clear waters are easily accessible making it an ideal location for secluded swimming, whilst the core of the city attests to the rich historical heritage with a variety of ancient buildings to discover.

At just a little over 30 minutes away by car straight up the coast, you can spend as much time as like exploring Biograd’s delights.

Travel To Croatia | Croatia Vacation

Kornati Islands National Park

A total of 147 uninhabited islands collaboratively create the Kornati Islands National Park, which floats in an area just over 220sq km in size in the Adriatic Sea. Best explored by boat of course, a trip to the islands is both exciting and relaxing. There are no ferries between the mainland and the islands however, so you would need to book a tour to visit them, of which there are plenty of options.

Kornat is the largest island and thus one of the most visited but all of them boast beautiful natural scenery with excellent diving in the surrounding waters.

Travel To Croatia | Croatia Vacation

National Park Krka Cycling

Pag Island

Interestingly, you can actually drive onto Pag Island which is found approximately 65km from the city. It’s the fifth largest of the Croatian islands and boasts the longest coastline meaning some time spent relaxing on the beach is a must. There are also some great restaurants to enjoy and with more sheep than people inhabiting the island, you can enjoy some peace and relaxation.

Paklenica National Park

Located around 45 minutes from Zadar, Paklenica National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and hiking aficionados. The stunning mountain panoramas are the reward at the end of some gruelling climbs whilst the easier terrain is more suited to beginners and still offers great views. The beautiful flora and diverse fauna will make your time here all the more memorable. Climbing here is also extremely popular and it is the largest site in southeast Europe.

Sibenik

Head south down the coast and in around 1 hour you will arrive in the town of Sibenik, another historical beauty. Famous for its UNESCO World Heritage listed Cathedral which dates back to 1431 and other attractions such as St. Laurence's Medieval Monastery Garden, the city attracts a number of visitors looking to visit its historical gems along with the attractive harbour area.

Travel To Croatia | Vacation In Croatia

Island In Mediterranean

Be sure to visit some of the local shops and visit a local beach to finish off your visit in style.

Croatia is a truly beautiful country with many interesting towns, cities and areas of natural beauty to visit. These are just a selection of some of the day trips you can make from Zadar but with a little exploration, wherever you venture in northern Dalmatia won’t disappoint.

Bio: Kerri Ware writes for EconomyCarHire.com, a car hire broker offering great deals forcar hire in Croatia and beyond. Hire a car in Zadar and explore this fantastic country.Follow us on Twitter @economycarhire.

Escape To Africa

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:34:26 -0500

Travel East Africa

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski - Highlighting her trekking across the African country
of Rwanda in East Africa

Rwanda Travel

Vacation to Africa

I Left My Heart ..

Dive the Great Lakes

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 13:38:56 -0500

Dive the Great Lakes!

Although the Great Lakes are commonly known for sailing and fishing, the network of lakes also features many great locations for scuba diving. Hundreds of shipwrecks dot the maps, and the Great Lakes area is a perfect place to dive. Scuba diving is not just for reefs, and any diver worth his salt knows that the adventure and thrill that comes from diving fresh water lakes is second to none. In addition to being exciting and challenging, the sites are not typically as crowded as many other diving locations on the coasts or near the sea. The sites in the Great Lakes area also offer a look into the rich American past.

If you are an experienced diver, or an intrepid novice looking to improve your skill, these locations offer what you are looking for. Let us look at a few sites in the Great Lakes and remember to always research your dive, be prepared, and keep your equipment checked and ready.

Great Lake Shipwrecks | Shipwrecks Great Lakes

Island Hopping Fiji

Wreck of the “Islander”

The site

Scuba diving in and around underwater wreckage is a thrilling and fun adventure. The wreck of the “Islander” is accessible at Market Street in the quaint village of Alexandria Bay. The Islander comes from a long past era where steamboats reigned supreme.

The location is a basic and open area. Although there are no penetration opportunities, the visibility during the dive is typically good. There is something surreal about seeing the haunting visage of the side-wheel steamship in its final resting place.

Nearby

Alexandria Bay features a dive shop as well as ramp and gazebo for convenience. In addition to great fishing and diving, Alexandria Bay also has bed and breakfasts as well as fine dining very close to the Wreck site. Check out more information on Alexandria Bay’s amenities.

Eastern Lake Erie

Wreck of the “Success”

Eastern Lake Erie is a haven for scuba divers and adventure seekers. There are almost too many sites here to name. There are many sites here that require varying levels of skill and prowess, so make sure to look for travel signs. Being aware of safety issues while on dives of different skill is also important.

Perhaps the most accessible wreck in Eastern Lake Erie is the Sailing ship “Success.” Resting in a mere 16 ft. of water, the “Success" had a career that spanned 106 years. The fate and history of the Success is the stuff of legend and Hollywood motion pictures.

Nearby

Great Lakes Diving | Shipwrecks Great Lakes

Chartering a Yacht

Port Clinton, Ohio, is a wonderful little hamlet that features an African safari tour, an historical museum, a state park and even lighthouse tours. Lodging consists of mainly motels such as Holiday Inn and Best Western, and has campgrounds near the diving area. Check out more information on Port Clinton and the surrounding area.

Wreck of the “St. Peter”

Putneyville, New York

The Wreck of the “St. Peter” is one of the most compelling sites to see as a diver. Featuring 3 masts and 135ft long, this schooner was not found until 1971. Under 116ft of water in Lake Ontario, this wreck is a daunting but fulfilling dive. Conditions around the site can be hazardous and it is essential to obey all safety signs when visiting the area. Summer time is the best time to visit due to water and weather conditions.

Staying around the wreck of the St. Peter is as much an adventure as visiting the site. Although Putneyville, New York, has a historical society and a fine deli, there is not a great deal to do in the area. Your best bet would be to make the trek from nearby Rochester.

Fall Colours

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 13:36:54 -0500

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - Enjoying the fall colours in an ATV near Kingston, Ontario Canada.

Fall
Getaway

Falls in
Niagara

Rideau Canal
Skateway

Travel East Africa

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 16:57:15 -0500

Rwanda Travel

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski - Highlighting her travel around the African country of Rwanda in East Africa

Family Friendly Dining in NYC

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 08:46:45 -0500

Family Friendly Dining in NYC

If you are visiting New York with kids in tow then you may find yourself hard pressed to find a place that will not only accommodate your children, but also keep them as entertained as possible so you can rest your weary feet. Today we have collated a list of our top five family friendly dining spots in New York to help you and the children find some good food with great family friendly service and seating.

1.)Peanut Butter & Co, Madison Square

Peanut Butter & Co is a small sandwich shop that is dedicated to all things peanut butter which makes it a bit hit with children. Everything in this little café is sweet, and they offer peanut butter sandwiches, milkshakes, candy fluff and more.

Inside you are treated to the smells of an old style sweet shop, with eight different types of homemade peanut butter that will not only fill the kids up, but give them a good dose of entertainment too. Kids are commonplace here, and so the staff are more than friendly and ready to assist your visit. You may even spot regular visitor Jerry Seinfeld whilst you are there!

Family Friendly Dining | Kid Friendly Restaurants NYC

City Breaks Destinations

2.) Shake Shack, Madison Square Park

Shake Shack is a burger stand, which is great with a family as you don’t need any cutlery and you don’t have to stay clean! The inside is set out like a canteen, making it easy to fit in a family. Kids get their own menu, their own drinks, ice cream and even coloring pencils and paper to keep them entertained. Portions are huge and ingredients are fresh which is why you will see a lot of families at this busy, warm restaurant.

3.) Arties Deli, 2290 Broadway

Arties deli is decked out like a video arcade, which is why it is a great spot for families as the children have so much to look at and discover. Bright lights, bold colors and space-ship shaped bulbs hang from the ceiling, with booths ready and available for parties of four or more. The food is easy, easy to understand, easy to order and easy to eat: another plus for families, with burgers, sandwiches and platters all available in generous adult portions and smaller child sized portions.

Kid Friendly Restaurants | Kid Friendly Restaurants NYC

Family Friendly Vacation

4.) Landmarc, West Broadway

A very classy joint, and definitely one for evening dining the Landmarc is a high class, fine dining restaurant which has a health in mind. Everything on this menu is fresh, healthy and low fat. Classical music and excellent service await you in a format that children will recognize and enjoy. A great one for a family dinner.

5.) Big Daddy’s, Upper West Side

Big Daddy’s was made for children. Packed full of bright colors and traditional American classics, brightly colored salads, waffles with cream chocolate and strawberries and patterned table cloths Big Daddy’s is a stimulating and happy environment that young children will enjoy. High chairs abound in this place, so no matter how small or young your children are, there will definitely be a seat for them.

This guest post was by Ben from Where to Eat, he loves to travel and dine in local restaurants to explorer new cuisines.

Greenwich National Park

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 08:46:25 -0500

Holiday In PEI

Travel photo of the day by Mitchell Pennell highlighting the floating walkways at Greenwich National Park on Prince
Edward Island Canada.

Discover Rwanda

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 04:53:21 -0500

Beaches in the Middle East

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski - Highlighting the African country of Rwanda

African Holiday

Vacation to Africa

I Left My Heart ..

Why Your Next Summer Vacation Should be to Fiji

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 03:54:50 -0500

From the moment your eyes focus on the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of Fiji you know you are in for a treat. An archipelago of around 330 islands and easily accessible from Australia, the breathtakingly beautiful Fiji is a fantastic place to take the family for the holiday of a lifetime.

What makes a holiday in Fiji special

Fiji Vacations | Fiji Holiday

Mediterranean Islands

With plenty of great things to do and experiences to be had across the islands, Fiji is a place where you have time to relax and enjoy being with your family. Life feels slower in Fiji and everything is done on ‘Fiji time’ – so stop, breathe, and have fun.

Fun things to do with the kids

Fiji has plenty of family-friendly activities and fun things for your kids to do. Here are some ideas to help you plan your trip:

Snorkelling: What better place to teach the kids how to snorkel than in the clear waters of Fiji. With some of the best coral reefs in the world and more tropical fish than you have ever seen, this is an activity for the whole family to enjoy. The kids will be over the moon to spot their friends Nemo (a Clown Fish) and Dory (a Blue/Regal Tang) in person.

Go island hopping: Why spend all of your time on the one island? Take a day trip and see what some of the other stunning islands have to offer. Swim, dive, snorkel, walk along tropical jungle paths and explore.

Have fun on the water: Take the family sailing, travel in a glass bottom boat, go fishing, hire a jet ski, try parasailing or ride the banana boats.

Kids Club: Fijians love children and their warmth relaxes even the shyest child. The Kids Clubs offered by many of the resorts organise such fun activities it can be hard to convince your children to come back home! From Fijian storytelling, coconut painting, water activities and more, there is plenty to keep the kids happy.

Island Hopping Fiji | Fiji Holiday

Accommodation for families in Fiji

Fiji has plenty of family-friendly islands and resorts, many having special prices and deals for families with children. There are options to suit all budgets, with many also having great kids clubs with loads of free activities and fun things to keep the kids entertained – letting you have a break every now and then to enjoy the paradise right at your feet.

If you’d prefer to get away from it all, there is also accommodation available on some of the less populated, more peaceful islands where you can relax in your own offshore paradise.

Fiji is a popular choice for families wanting to relax and unwind. The smiling locals, laidback vibe, stunning landscapes and number of fun things to do, all make for a Fiji summer vacation you’ll never forget. Experience the traditional Fijian culture and warm welcome of the locals in this tropical paradise.

About the author: Lea Phillips+ has spent the past 6 years photographing the world and travelling extensively – very little is better than relaxing on a tropical island like Fiji.

My Vacation To Costa Rica

My Trip To Africa

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 09:25:20 -0500

Guided Vacations

Travel photo of the day by Eva Krakowski - Highlighting the African country of Rwanda

Family Adventure Vacation Ideas, Hints and Travel Tips

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:25:57 -0500

Family Adventure Vacation Ideas, Hints and Travel Tips

This is a guide to planning and going on a family friendly vacation with some adventure on the side. Family vacations don't have to be just outings to amusement parks anymore. With a little bit of research, you can have fun and some new experiences while on holiday with your family.

Finding the Right Place

You have two different planning choices for your trip. You can plan the trip yourself or use a tour service. Which avenue is the right one for you depends on many factors, including how much time you want to invest in the planning stage and what you are most comfortable with.

Family Adventure Holidays | Family Friendly Vacation

Family Vacation

If you're planning the trip yourself, you'll need to research destinations with family adventure holidays available. Many popular tourist areas have side adventures, such as hiking and kayaking, available for families. Note the locations of the activities you want to try as well as the contact and pricing information.

Create an activity schedule once you've picked your destination for your activity holidays. While you don't have to strictly adhere to the schedule, it will give you a guide and help to ensure you don't miss an activity you and your family were very interested in.

If you've decided to use a tour service, you'll find many different family adventure holidays on offer. The packages usually include scheduled activities, side activities and tour leader services. Review all the available packages to find the one that best fits your family's vacation goals.

Make sure the package you pick has everything you want if you're going with a tour service. Both the location and activities may be themed, such as water or outdoor adventure, so you'll want a holiday with a theme that suits your family.

Family Adventure Vacation | Family Friendly Vacation

Tropical Vacation Spots

Travel Tips

Whether you're planning your family holiday yourself or using a tour service, make sure your family is interested in the activities and location you're seriously considering. If you have a mix of ages to consider, such as a small child and teenager, look for activities that will appeal to the both of them. For older children, you may want to consider planning some activities just for them.

Plan for breaks in your schedule to allow your family some time to explore or rest. Planned breaks are also advisable if you have small children or a family member with special travel needs. However, avoid long breaks or lags in between activities to avoid boredom.

You should have back-up activities planned in case something falls through or you have unexpected time available. If you're using a tour agency, the agency should have optional activities available in the event you have time to spend or want to try something different.

Try to think of new activities when you're planning your family trip. You might be a little hesitant about trying something new or visiting an unfamiliar destination, but not giving the experience a chance may rob your family of a great time. Ask your family members for their opinions if you're having trouble committing to a new vacation destination. A group decision can help you feel more comfortable about your final choice.

AUTHOR BIO

Anna writes regularly on travel, activity holidays and vacation planning for a range of vacation websites and family adventure holidays blogs. She has traveled to family friendly destinations over the last decade.

Tips for Staying Safe in Costa Rica

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:14:23 -0500

In the last couple of years, Costa Rica has become one of the most popular tropical destinations for weddings, elopements, honeymoons, and vacations. There are many reasons for this. It is a pretty easy place to get to, especially for Americans who can be on the beach within six hours of leaving home. It is also a beautiful country. Costa Rica has been blessed with gorgeous beaches, rainforests filled with exotic animals, and mesmerizing volcanoes.

Costa Rica is also considered the Switzerland of Central America. While its neighboring countries have experienced political instability, violence and extreme poverty, Costa Rica has largely avoided these problems. Its stable, democratic government means that you are not likely to find yourself in the middle of a coup on your vacation.

Costa Rica is so committed to peace that the military was disbanded decades ago. And while there are still some problems with public services, with wealth comes state-of-the-art private hospitals. People come to Costa Rica because it is safe. But, just like in any other country, it is important to use commonsense.

Vacation Tips | Trip To Costa Rica

Here are some tips for how to make sure that your visit to Costa Rica isn’t ruined by any unfortunate mishaps.

Tips for Keeping Your Money in Your Pocket

While violent crime is almost unheard of in Costa Rica, petty theft is common in some places. If you are spending any time in San Jose, make sure that you keep a close eye on your wallet and bags. Pickpockets often target people who stand out, so while you can wear whatever you want on the beach, it is a good idea to try to blend in a little bit more in San Jose. Both men and women should wear jeans.

Men can wear a clean t-shit or a button down shirt, but should make sure that their appearance is tidy. Women should avoid revealing or tight clothing that will draw the attention of both pickpockets and unwanted admirers.

When walking around San Jose, be sure to keep your money in a secure place. Men should put their wallet in their front pocket instead of the back pocket. Better yet, keep it in a zippered pocket of a zipped bag. Women should either carry their belongings in a zippered purse or backpack.

Another place where pickpockets like to work is in bus stations and on public transportation. Always keep a hand on your bags. A good thief can take your bag in seconds, so even leaving it unattended for a little while isn’t smart. While traveling on a public bus, keep your bag in your lap or in the luggage compartment under the bus. Never put anything in the overhead areas.

Vacation Tips | Trip To Costa Rica

Holidays In Cuba

Tips for Keeping those Mosquitoes Away

Unlike traveling to Africa and Asia, you won’t have to get a whole much of vaccines before your trip to Costa Rica. Visitors should be aware, however, that the country has seen a lot of cases of dengue fever and malaria in recent years. Both of these diseases are carried by mosquitoes and have spread to most coastal areas in the world – even the United States.

The majority of the serious reported outbreaks in Costa Rica have been on the Caribbean Coast, but it is still a good idea to avoid being bitten by a mosquito anywhere in the country. The best way to do this is to wear good insect repellent and reapply it often; wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; and sleep with mosquito netting or in an air conditioned room.

While it is a good idea to follow these tips while on your trip, do not let fear get in the way of having a fun time. After all, the vast majority of visitors to Costa Rica do not get malaria or dengue fever. Most never even run into a single pickpocket.

Author: Tammy is a travel freelance writer and works as a part time yoga instructer at Shaka Surf Camp in Costa Rica.

Washington Monument Tour

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 05:03:22 -0500

Washington DC Walking Tours

Travel photo of the day by Mitchel Pennell - A great view of the Canadian
Embassy (on the left) and the United States Capital Building from the
Newseum in D.C.

Niagara Falls Vacation

Washington DC
Walking Tours

Happy
Independence Day

Gorilla Tours

Sun, 07 Oct 2012 05:03:10 -0500