Cardiff found fame exporting coal and steel from the South Wales valleys across the world, when these industries dried up it, Cardiff reinvented itself as the political and commercial heart of the Principality. Now the city is populated with iconic buildings, both modern and historic, a wide and diverse range of entertainment venues and a magnificent array of sporting facilities everywhere.

City Attractions

Not many cities have a square mile centre that is dominated by both a 74,000-seat stadium and a 2,000-year-old Castle but Cardiff does. It has always been famed for its shopping with the stylish Victorian Wyndham, Castle and Morgan arcades complemented by the new, modern St David’s developments. You will find everything from chic boutiques to internationally renowned department stores, designer labels to individual craft items.

Visitors will discover that the National Museum of Wales holds a wealth of interesting exhibits, paintings and shows. It has one of the best collections of Pre-Raphaelite pictures and a fabulous display of the paintings by Gwen John, the Welsh lover of the sculptor Rodin. The stately City Hall is also worth a peek to see the magnificent statues of Welsh heroes that stand on the first floor lobby.

Dining Out

Eating out in Cardiff is a joy, the Café Quarter on Mill Lane and the Old Brewery provide a massive selection of world restaurants. Diners can try everything from Japanese sushi, Indian curries, American burgers and traditional Welsh fayre. The city also has a great choice in independent snack bars and cafés, which offer something out of the ordinary for those looking for a quick bite between tours.

Once the sun goes down Cardiff continues its entertainment in its exciting bars and pubs, great diverse club scene and fantastic theatres and concert venues. Much of the city centre is pedestrianised and getting around comes at a premium, as you don’t have to worry about avoiding a constant precession of cars, taxis and buses.

Where to stay?

The centrally located Radisson Park Inn provides visitors with the security and knowledge of comfortable accommodation, first class restaurants on hand and being situated only minutes from the main attractions of Cardiff City centre. The 146-room city centre hotel, has ample underground parking, large function rooms and high speed internet access.

Whether you are coming to Cardiff for a special occasion, a weekend break or a business conference, the Park Inn offers great facilities and value. Staying in this central location you are free to explore the exciting Cardiff Bay area, take trips along the spectacular coastline of the Vale of Glamorgan or a quick drive to the marvellous wonders of Caerphilly Castle just up the road. 

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One of the most fascinating areas of Paris is Montmartre, where some of the city’s greatest artist’s once lived and culture still thrives. No trip to Paris (France) is complete without experiencing the unique atmosphere and history of the District of Montmartre.

The 18^th Arrondissement of Paris is known for being the epicenter of the flourishing artist community in the City of Light from 1907 until 1914. Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, Salvador Dali, Toulouse-Lautrec and many other incredibly influential artists lived here during the early modern period. The 18^th is also where you will find a vibrant ethnic community as well as the red-light district, adding an interesting flavour to this fascinating part of the city.

Le Moulin Rouge

Yes, the famous naughty "can-can dance" show at this iconic turn-of-the-century burlesque hall still exists, and you can watch the performance as well as comedians, jugglers and magicians.

You can even treat yourself to dinner while you watch the show, although with the prices this will certainly not be the cheapest night of your Paris holiday.

Savour the View from Sacre Coeur

The Sacre Coeur Basilica is an un-mistakable white domed church that perches high on a hill overlooking the city, the "Sacred Heart" of Montmartre. The sore calves that you will have from climbing up the many staircases and steep streets to the top of the hill will be absolutely worth it when you feast your eyes upon one of the best views in Paris. Up at the top of the hill, ignore the cheesy souvenir sellers and instead find yourself a place to sit on the steps. Almost every night there are buskers with guitars belting out beautiful ballads, which makes the perfect soundtrack to a peaceful moment spent gazing out at the rooftops of Paris.

Art and Culture

Montmartre is absolutely brimming with culture, and a list of previous residents in this neighborhood reads like a "Who’s Who" of Art History. If you look hard enough you will find the studios of Modigliani and Picasso, the apartment of Van Gogh, and a restaurant where a young starving Picasso exchanged his paintings for food. Bizarre Surrealist artist Salvador Dali lived here as well, and you can find the Espace Dali on Rue Poulbot which features a collection of his work.

To meet some of the current day artists of Montmartre, head to the Place Du Tertre where local artists sell their work and paint portraits of visitors.  

Beware of Place Pigalle!

You are better off missing the historic red-light district of Paris, as clubs often send girls out into the streets to drag men into the clubs and force them to buy drinks. After innocently having a drink or two and a private dance, you could be slapped with a bill for up to 700 Euros by an enormous threatening bouncer. Yikes!

Enjoy the art, culture, and history of this unique and fascinating corner of Paris.

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While you are visiting Mumbai, the largest city in India, one of the essential travel experiences that you can enjoy is the taste of a warm and spicy traditional Indian meal served by a local street vendor.

Although there are many fine restaurants in Mumbai where you can enjoy an upscale dining experience, the real flavor of the city can be found within the abundance of cheap food served by vendors on the streets. If you have never eaten street food before, you might have some questions about this type of cuisine:

Is it Expensive?

Absolutely not! In fact, food from a street vendor is likely to be one of the cheapest meals you will eat in India if not ever. You can fill your belly with scrumptious and flavorful cuisine for around 20 rupees which is approximately 25p.
 
Is it Hygenic?

Not necessarily. If you are one of those people who are squeamish about germs, you might feel uncomfortable eating at a street vendor in Mumbai. The water that the food stalls use is almost certainly not fit to drink, and many food vendors don’t seem to understand the concepts of hand-washing and food safety standards. The risk of disease is even higher during the monsoon season.

Take cues from the locals and frequent the food stalls that they trust, and make sure that the stall clearly states that it is using mineral water or Aquaguard and that the stall is clean overall. Try to avoid eating meat if you have a sensitive stomach, and choose hot snacks that come straight from the griddle or the deep fryer. Avoid sauces or chutneys that might have been sitting out for hours.

Where Can I Find It?

Khao Galli - The name of this street translates to “eat street”, and this should give you a clue as to how much wonderful variety of (mostly vegetarian) street food you can find here. Both sides of this street are lined with delicious food stalls. This street is found next to the Churchgate railway station.
Juhu Beach – This beautiful beach is home to many food stalls and snack carts, featuring many traditional Indian treats.

Mohammed Ali Road – This is a Muslim area in south Mumbai which has excellent meat dishes and sweets.
Another good idea is to head to any of the colleges in the city. Wherever the young students hang out you will find a good collection of food stalls.
 
What Should I Try?

This depends on what you like! There are many delicious dishes that you can sample while you are in Mumbai, including kebab rolls, Indian Chinese food, pattis, Bhelpuri, Pav Bhaji, and much more. Perhaps you might like some Vada pav, which is fried potato stuffed inside yeasty bread, or Chaat which is a mixture of potatoes, onions, chickpeas, yogurt and chutney. There are so many different varieties that you can try a different street food on every day of your travels!

Enjoy sampling the diverse flavors of Mumbai’s street food!

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If you are taking a long haul flight between Europe or North America and Africa or Asia, there is a good chance that you will have a stopover in Abu Dhabi somewhere in the middle. Located in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, this city is a gateway between the east and the west and a popular stopover location. If you are going to be travelling through on your next big flight, why not schedule your stopover so that you stay a night or two in Abu Dhabi and check out this exciting city? There is a lot to see here even if you are only visiting for a short time.

Here are a few ideas for getting a taste of Abu Dhabi culture in between flights:

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque

This is a popular tourist attraction in Abu Dhabi. It is the 6^th largest mosque in the world and the largest in the United Arab Emirates. It is the final resting place of Sheikh Zayad bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whoc is thought to be the father of the United Arab Emirates. Visiting the Sheikh Zayad Mosque is a great way to get a firsthand glance at the religious traditions of the local people here. The library contains a fascinating collection of artworks, rare coins, and books dating back over 200 years. Remember to dress modestly and cover your ankles and shoulders so that you will meet the religiously conservative dress code required to enter.

The Corniche

Take a stroll along the spectacular waterfront of Abu Dhabi, which stretches all the way from the Breakwater to the Mina Zayed port. It is a scenic waterfront promenade walkway, alongside sandy beaches and beautiful parks, and is a great place to stretch your legs between your long flights. There are many things to do along the Corniche, including go-karts, live music, and playgrounds. There is also an impressive view of the towering modern skyscrapers of the Abu Dhabi skyline.

The Mall

Shopping is a much loved pastime in Abu Dhabi, and to get a sense of the culture here you can take a trip to one of the many excellent malls here. If you want to pick up a few bargains during your stopover you can visit many popular chain stores as well as designer boutiques. Check out the three-story Abu Dhabi Mall, or the Marina Mall with its musical fountain.

These are just a few of the attractions that you can visit during a short stay in Abu Dhabi. While you are on a stopover in Abu Dhabi, it is a good idea to rent a car so that you can get around quickly to all of the attractions that you want to see. It will also help you get back to the airport as efficiently as possible so that you can catch your connecting flight.

Also, if you are staying on a short stopover in Abu Dhabi it is most convenient to book a hotel located right next to the airport, such as the Park Inn by Radisson Abu Dhabi Yas Island. It has a health club, a pool and tennis courts and it located right next to the airport so that travelling on will be easy and convenient. Alternatively there is also the Radisson Blu Hotel in Yas Island that is owned by the same group and offers 4 star accomodation and access to some of Abu Dhabi's best golf courses.

With so much to see and do, you will enjoy your stopover in Abu Dhabi so much that you will want to stay for longer next time!

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Etihad Airways is once again leading the way in environmental best practice by successfully reducing carbon emissions by nine tonnes on two flights from Australia to Abu Dhabi, reports Breaking Travel News:-

The savings were made as a result of cooperation between Etihad Airways and various air traffic control centres on the ground that enabled the aircraft, two Airbus A340s, to fly routes that took advantage of prevailing jet streams.

As a result, a combined total of 2.8 tonnes of fuel was saved on the flights, one of which departed from Melbourne, the other from Sydney.

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive officer, said: “The fuel savings and reduced carbon emissions made by these flights are potentially hugely beneficial for both the aviation industry and the environment. 

Etihad also upgrated its jet engines recently to make them more fuel efficient and environmentally friendly.

James Hogan continued by saying:-

“If similar savings were possible just once each week for flights between Abu Dhabi and Australia, we conservatively estimate an annual reduction in carbon emissions of some 1,100 tonnes and a saving of 350 tonnes of fuel. 

“This would represent a reduction of more than four tonnes of carbon on every flight.”

Taking advantage of favourable jet streams is part of an initiative set up by the Indian Ocean Strategic Partnership to Reduce Emissions (INSPIRE). This initiative also included measures such as using terminal gates as close to runways as possible and nominating secondary landing airports which are close to primary ones.

Standards for environmentally air travel are bound to come into effect sooner or later, so other airlines are bound to follow where Etihad is leading.

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The opening up of Eastern Europe has seen many more destinations becoming popular haunts on the tourist trail. Bratislava in Slovakia is one such place but what is there to see and do in this European city?

Sited on the Danube with views across the Slovakian border to Hungary and Austria, Bratislava is situated in some of Central Europe’s most picturesque landscape. It has, for decades been overshadowed by competition from Vienna and Prague but today presents a more local tourist site, not swamped with the usual trappings of popular locations.

Bratislava’s Attractions

Bratislava Castle looks down across the city from its lofty heights and has been the main defensive site of the city for decades. It is now where the government meet and also the location of the Slovak National Museum.

While much of Bratislava’s suburbs have the stark, bland architecture typical of the Soviet era, its town centre is brimming with historically significant architecture. Churches, palatial homes and guildhalls still stand and the main square is surrounded with interesting buildings with a Renaissance fountain in its centre. 

St Michaels Gate - Michalska Brana is the last remaining part of the old town walls defences, much of its present appearance is due to a 17^th century revamp and visitors today can appreciate the remarkable views from its upper floors and wander around the military museum located inside. 

Another popular tourist attraction in Bratislava is St Martin’s Cathedral; despite its stark Gothic appearance numerous brightly coloured stained glass windows light its interior. There is a large statue of St Martin by Georg Raphael Donner and several gothic and baroque chapels too. The narrow cobbled streets and courtyard that surround the cathedral are as much of interest as the building itself and makes an ideal place for exploring the old towns layout. 

Bratislava’s Palatial Museums

Primatial Palace is the former Bishops residence and is now open to the public.  It is here you can view the historically significant Hall of Mirrors where the peace treaty with Napoleon was signed and the 17^th century English manufactured tapestries telling the love story of Hero and Leander. It also houses an excellent collection of 16^th – 17^th century Dutch, Flemish and Italian paintings.

House of the Good Shepherd – Rococo building still very much in its original state that now houses the watch and clock museum.  The exhibits chart the history of watch making in Bratislava from the 17^th century and include many excellent examples, along with a collection of sundials.

Old Town Hall - Star Radnica in the historic centre between the main square and Primate’s square. It served for many centuries as the town councils meeting place but also functioned as a jail and royal mint. It now houses the Bratislava Town Museum detailing the history, dungeons and ancient weapons of the town. During the summer month’s regular concerts are put on in the courtyard outside.

Town’s Parks and Woodlands

Grassalkovich Palace is now the Presidential home but it once entertained the Habsburg Royal Court with glittering balls and operatic performances. The palace’s ground is now a beautifully manicured public park, where there are trees, borders and benches and a statue of the Bratislava composer, Hummel.

Bratislava provides an intriguing place to stroll around and enjoy. The old town centre provides a host of small interesting galleries, shops and café bars to grab a snack, while more adventurous travellers can take a cruise on the Danube or a trip to Devin Castle just outside of town. Bratislava is also famous for its city forest and wandering through this wooded piece of Horsky Park.

Places To Stay

Embodying the grace, charm and elegance of centuries past, the Radisson Blu Carlton Hotel, Bratislava welcomes guests to one of the city's most prestigious buildings.

The Park Inn Danube, Bratislava hotel in Slovakia's capital city affords guests a central location within walking distance of the Danube River, Bratislava Castle and the business district

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Long weekend breaks in Scandinavia With the Bank Holiday looming, comes the tricky task of having to choose from a wide selection of holiday destinations if you are thinking of going away.

How about taking a Scandinavian break? Whether it’s Norway, Sweden, Denmark or all three, you will not be left disappointed. Enjoy good weather along with the extended hours of sunlight this region enjoys this time of the year!

Here are some suggestions for this Nordic region.

Norway

Gourmets and food enthusiasts should not miss the annual Norwegian Food festival in the town of Ålesund. From the 24th to the 28th of August visitors can experience a whole week of Scandinavian cuisine in all its variations, concerts, food and drink seminars, and you can watch chefs competing for the King’s Trophy! If you want some family fun with the kids instead, check out the Tusenfryd amusement park, just outside Oslo. And you don’t want to miss a 3Gs, 100kph ride on the ThunderCoaster, a world famous wooden rollercoaster!

Top tip: During the summer months, parts of northern Norway (such as Svalbard) don’t get dark (ever heard of a weather forecast where ‘it will be sunny throughout the night?’). Experience the magnificent midnight sun on a cruise ship or fishing trip! What better reason to stay up all night?

Sweden

If you want to avoid the hustle and bustle of tourist places, try the northern village of Harads and, in particular, the unique Tree Hotel this town is famous for. For great views, unique rooms built around tree trunks and complete harmony, this spot is perfect. Make the most of the long hours of summer daylight to explore the countryside; try cycling, hiking, horse riding or even a cattle safari! And if you prefer water sports, try canoeing, kayaking or fishing in the Lule River for an invigorating time!

Denmark

If you want to visit one of the world’s greenest cities, Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is the place for you! The relaxed atmosphere and the ‘slow living’ of the local people are sure to make your bank holiday a relaxing one. Visit Bakken, the oldest amusement park in the world, enjoy rides, games, pantomime shows, dances and live music all day long. Bakken is also home to the fabulous Jægersborg Deer Park. Visitors are attracted to the many activities that are available here as well as the excitement of seeing some of its 2000 deer. Try one of the horse-drawn carriages, a great way to see the park in its full glory! Or visit Strøget, the largest shopping area in the heart of Copenhagen. With the world’s longest pedestrian street at 1.1km, it’s a Mecca for shopaholics! As for nightlife, there is a Rock Night every Friday during Summer at 10pm with a concert on Plænen in the centre of Tivoli complete with Danish and international artists. Join in the fun!

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...Luxury packages for the Formula One Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi – scheduled for November 13th – are attracting prices of up to $12,000 per person as expectation mounts...

According to the latest news from Etihad Airways owned tour operator Hala Abu Dhabi, packages including stays as the YAS Hotel, which bridges the track, are selling fast.

• a four-night stay in the hotel,
• a limo pick up at the airport,
• a three-day “Paddock Club” ticket,
• access to the post-race Amber Lounge Party - according to Etihad Airways.

Despite of Etihad being the official Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix Sponsor  - the packages don't necessarily include flights to Dubai & Abu Dhabi.

But, this is maybe to leave the ticket holders the choice of their flights dates: turn-up earlier or stay longer to enjoy the climate of the UAE. There is then no restrictions for their trip/stay. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (أبوظبي سباق الجائزة الكبرى‎) sells about 50,000 tickets each year and is the biggest event on the calendar for the United Arab Emirates capital.

So, if you are a F1 fan, the dates to bookmark for the event are 11th to 13th November 2011.

...The Formula One Grand Prix sells about 50,000 tickets each year and is the biggest event on the calendar for the capital...

The race is promising; Lewis Hamilton said he will take some time for self-reflection during Formula One's summer holiday. A tight season between him and Jenson Button.

Something to look forward to, even if it is by watching it on the big screen.

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The Isle of Man Tourist Trophy is the greatest motorcycle road race in the world, the ultimate challenge for rider and machine.

...The International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) Race is a motorcycle racing event held on the Isle of Man and was for many years the most prestigious motor-cycle race in the world. The event was part of the FIM Motorcycle Grand Prix World Championship during the period 1949–1976 before being transferred to the United Kingdom after safety concerns and run by the FIM as the British Grand Prix for the 1977 season. The Isle of Man TT Races became part of the TT Formula 1 Championship during the period 1977–1990 to preserve the event's racing status. From 1989 the racing has been developed by the Isle of Man Department of Tourism as the Isle of Man TT Festival....(Source: wikipedia)

This race is now almost a cult...some bikers are going for the race of their life but sometimes it is their last.

Motorbike accidents are part of the tradition but unfortunately some crashes can involve spinal cord injuries or even be fatal for the pilot . The list is rather impressive.

Since 1911, there have been 234 deaths either during the TT race or the Manx Grand Prix.

On that special day, when all engines are turning to full speed, the roads are closed and the inhabitants are spectators. It is a celebration in most cases, but the danger is everywhere for the ones behind the handlebars. Full protection is compulsary!

...A story about freedom of choice, the strength of human spirit and the will to win. It's also an examination of what motivates those rare few, this elite band of brothers who risk everything to win....

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Hampton Court Flower Show

Check out one of the world’s largest annual flower shows set against the backdrop of one of the greatest royal palaces in the UK – Hampton Court. You’ll see fabulous show gardens, the ever-popular Rose Marquee and lots of other gadgets and gizmos to add a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your gardens at home. Many potential visitors to the Hampton Court Flower Show are put off driving there due to it's close proximity to London. An alternative way to travel to the show is by taking one of the various coach holidays offered by tour operators.  Find out more from Door2tour about where you can join a coach trip to visit the Hampton Court Flower Show.

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The Opera Gallery is located within the terminal buildings of Abu Dhabi Airport to enhance the experience of passengers using Etihad Lounges

Airport Art on Viddler

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By Elena Price

Toronto is a great city that offers a huge selection of activities and still remains cool. Summer is the best time to visit as it is a warm, however winters can be cold and snowy and limit possibilities.

Toronto is the largest city in Canada with a population of 2.5m and is situated in the province of Ontario.  So being the biggest and most populated city in wonderful Canada is all good and well, but what is really hot in Toronto?

Aside from the view, the tower also has a world famous glass floor to walk on and peer through – sometimes onto the top of clouds, which really brings home how high you’re actually up.

Other interesting things inside this magnificent structure are amusement rides and a 3D Movie downstairs. Overall though, it is certainly worth the trip and any queuing involved.

For something completely different, why not visit the Steam Whistle Brewery. The tour which is notably good value brings you around the Steam Whistle Brewery. The company, which got its name from the old locomotive house the building is based in, runs daily tours that involve a tour guide telling you a selection of interesting facts about the factory as well as the beer.

Aside from the tours, you also get a taster at the end as well as the possibility of a free glass. You can also select the tour you want and order as much drink beforehand as you feel will quench your thirst.

After a few beers there’s nothing like walking it off and where better to do so than in Toronto Island Park. Take the ferry across to one of the four islands and take part in walks, trails and also enjoy the beach. The island is ideal for a picnic and for the more adventurous activities like kayaking are at hand.

Hungry visitors who take a flight to Toronto can visit Kensington Market and Spadina Avenue, where you can choose from a huge choice of bakeries, bistros, restaurants and stalls to eat from. Every kind of food is available and even more important tasty in Kensington Market.

The market also has a selection of other shops, including junk, charity and second hand shops. It is also close to the China Town area and is a real haven for the hip folk of the city.

For something less sensualist why not visit the Royal Ontario Museum and see some of the 6 million artefacts on show. The museum is a must see and is especially entertaining for children. It has a vast selection from many periods, including from the Greek and Roman civilisations as well as many artefacts and fossils found from dinosaurs during the time the dinosaurs ruled the earth.

Finally for sports fans and those with a love of the North American way, the Hockey Hall of Fame is something of interest. The museum holds everything hockey related you could imagine including life size statues and a full size dressing room. There is also a selection of hockey related games for the younger ones.

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One of the largest tourist complexes in Europe and located on the gorgeous Algarve coastline, Vilamoura is a fantastic holiday location in Portugal. Here are some ideas of what to do on your sunny getaway here.

Down in Portugal, nestled within the golden sand and turquoise water of the Algarve coast, lies a recreation and leisure resort where the sun is almost always shining and life is laid back and fun. Vilamoura is a great destination with beautiful beaches for relaxation, as well as many opportunities to pursue active pastimes and sports.

CLICK ON IMAGE FOR LARGER VERSION

Vilamoura covers an area of over 2000 hectares of land, making it one of the largest tourist beach resorts in Europe. The resort began in 1974 on the initiative of a wealthy banker from Porto, Cupertino de Mirana. At its heart is the marina, which has space for over 1,000 vessels, and impressive yachts, gather here from all over the world.

A holiday in Vilamoura means a great time filled with many sunny day activities. As well as lounging on the beach, here are a few of the best things to do in and around Vilamoura.

Go on a boat cruise to the Coastal Caves

If you walk up and down the Vilamoura Marina, you will see many companies offering boat trips down the coast. They will take you on a voyage where you will see beautiful views of the orange cliffs jutting dramatically out of the sea, the mysterious caves and rock formations, and the lovely villages that line the coast. Some of the full day cruise options offer a stop for a swim near the caves and a beach barbeque lunch! This is a great way to see the beauty of the Algarve coastline.

Soar above the waves

If you are a true daredevil, you will love parascending, otherwise known as parasailing. If you choose to participate in this exhilarating sport you will find yourself strapped to a parachute attached to the back of a speedboat. As the boat jets along the clear blue water, you will soar high in the sky behind it! What an amazing perspective on the scenery, and a true thrill for the adventurer.

Visit the roman remains of Cerro de Villa

The remains of a Roman Villa are located close to Vilamoura, making a great day trip for history lovers to explore. This area of Portugal has been occupied for thousands of years, and the Romans were the first to establish a settlement here. From the first century AD late Roman, Visigoth and Moorish colonies have occupied the site of Cerro de Vila, and traces from each period can be found there.

Hit a hole in one

The Algarve is famous for its world-class golf courses, and Vilamoura is nearby to plenty such facilities. Millennium is one of the newest choices, designed by UK architects Hawtree & Sons. Laguna, another recent addition, has three loops of nine holes each that offer a challenge for players of all skill levels. The Old Course, the most established of the Vilamoura courses, is close to fantastic beaches and located with a tranquil landscape.

Live it up at the Casino

If you fancy your luck, why not visit the glamorous Vilamoura Casino, where you can play Roulette, Portuguese Dice, slot machines or black jack. The casino also has nightly cabaret shows, a nightclub and a cinema.

Vilamoura is a great place to spend a relaxing beach holiday, and you will come back from your getaway here relaxed, sun-kissed, and buzzing with stories to tell about your adventures.

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This video - courtesy of Kuoni ("A world of difference") - is rather dreamy but real.

If you have been there, share your experience: what attracted you to go there and would you go back for another break?

It seems a real paradise on earth.

It is the world top diving destination: clear and warm water.

Ideally place to relax and enjoy your spare time in the sun or in the sea.

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If you have saved for a long time to go on a big travel adventure, don’t let your hard earned money be worth a lot less thanks to a poor exchange rate! Find out where to get the best rates when you change your currency.

If you have ever saved up a big chunk of money for a holiday, only to find yourself disappointed when your funds don’t go as far as you thought they would, you might benefit from knowing a bit more about currency exchange rates.

Although the difference between rates might seem like a small percentage, when you are changing over a large chunk of savings it can add up to a big difference. You have worked hard for your travel money, so make sure that you find a good rate so that you will get the most out of it when it changes currencies.

Being smart about changing over your money to foreign currency can mean that you will have more cash to spend, whether it is Euros, Pounds, Dollars, Thai Bhat, or Japanese Yen.

Here are a few options for currency exchange and the difference between them:

The Airport

When you arrive at the airport, whether at your home country or in the destination, you will see booths or stations that offer to change currency.

This is the most convenient choice for currency exchange, because it means that you will not have to make a separate trip and you can change your money even if you leave it to the last minute. However, with convenience often comes cost, and it is no surprise that the airport currency exchange stalls have usually the highest fees out of all the options.

If you can avoid changing your money at the airport, do so because you won’t usually get a very good value. Taking the time to shop around for a better rate in advance will save your precious cash.

The Post Office

The Post Office exchanges many different currencies, and will often have one of the best rates. This is also a convenient choice, because you are likely to have a post office nearby no matter where you live. It is better to bring cash to the Post Office than pay for the foreign currency with your credit card or by transferring money from your regular savings account, as they will usually charge you an "administration fee".

Withdraw from Cash Machine abroad

This is a viable option that you could use if you get near to the end of your holiday and discover that you need more cash than you originally brought with you. However, many banks will charge international withdrawal fees which can add up quickly. Be sure to check with your bank before you leave to find out what their fees are.

If the fees are high enough to make withdrawing money from a cash machine not worth it, it is a good idea to take out a bit more than you think you might need before your trip while you are exchanging currency at the Post Office.

You will get it at a better rate, and you can always change it back if you end up not needing it.

Changing your money can be tricky, but it is worth taking the time to find a better rate so that your hard earned savings can take you further on your travel adventures.

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Diego Maradona took recently flight to Dubai.

This wasn't for a holiday break in the sun but more for business talks.

He was there to discuss an offer related to Al Wasl Football Club (نادي الوصل لكرة القدم).

The value of the contract has not been revealed, butMarwan bin Bayat (the chairman of Al Wasl) said it "is worthy of the stature and reputation of the great legend".

According to Ashraf Mohammed (Chief Executive of Al Wasl Football Club): it is a 2 year contract but has the option to be extended to 4 years.

...The arrival of Maradona will definitely push Wasl into the global spotlight and could lead to a boom in merchandising....

Surely, with such agreement the little ex-football player will be able to live a good life and certainly "commute" between Argentina and Dubai in business class without any restrictions....he will get the green light. Etihad Airways might be his choice and that would also push the image of the UAE airline.

So, a new start from "El Diego" as some people nicknamed him.

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Bruno Tanant and Jean Christophe Nani – Landscape designers TN PLUS, Aldric Beckmann and  Françoise N’Thépé – Architects Beckmann N’Thépé, win the international competition for the completion of the Primorskiy’s new zoological Park, Saint-Petersburg (Russia).

....global garden where people can learn about nature and get inspiration about the world around them....

Interesting though to see that such idea is going around the world to create more unusual/ clever and innovative attractions.

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AMMAN, JORDAN

As well as the chance to take a donkey trek to see the peaceful monastery on the hill above Petra, visiotors to Amman can see the 6th-century BC remains of Petra, once home of the Nabataeans. You can also see the Beduin camps of Wadi Rum, where T. E. Lawrence based his camp, and the Dead Sea.

Etihad operate sheduled flights flights to Amman from Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sydney

• http://www.etihadairways.com/sites/Etihad/global/en/home/Pages/flights-to-amman-from-abu-dhabi.aspx
• http://www.etihadairways.com/sites/Etihad/global/en/home/Pages/flights-to-amman-from-dubai.aspx
• http://www.etihadairways.com/sites/Etihad/global/en/home/Pages/flights-to-amman-from-sydney.aspx

Where to stay - the Kempinski Hotel Ishtar  kempinski.com is a slick Dead Sea resort with B&B doubles from £200.

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Enjoy England has announced the winners of its awards for excellence 2011 at a glittering ceremony in Birmingham.

Judged by a panel of industry experts, the winner of England’s best B&B is Number 43, in Arnside, Cumbria. Best small hotel is the Bay Tree in Burford, Oxfordshire, and the best large property is London’s Langham hotel. Caravan park of the year is Woodclose Park in Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria (still some summer availability) and the best large visitor attraction — presumably aimed specifically at large visitors — is Chatsworth House in the Peaks.

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