Travels and Leisure For You
- Last build:
- Sat, 12 May 2007 14:42:32 +0000
- Language:
- Feed URL:
- http://travels-4u.blogspot.com/rss.xml
RSS FEED IDEMS: Travels and Leisure For You
- Exmouth and the Coral Coast
By Jenny Brewer
This region of Western Australia, from Exmouth down to past Geraldton, encompasses some of the bluest, most beautiful national parks in the world. It is known not only for the natural attractions on the land but the aquatic under water world drawing visitors from all over the globe.
The wildlife is diverse and awe inspiring, with giant whale sharks, friendly dolphins, turtles, whales and manta rays some of the more common residents. It is perfect for your driving adventure, with plenty of camping spots and ideal hideaways to stop and enjoy the views.
Exploring Exmouth is a dream coming true for marine lovers. There is fantastic snorkelling and diving here, with brilliant coral colours, and every type of fish imaginable. It is the crystal clear waters that attract so many visitors. Although this region is remote, it is well worth the effort to stay and enjoy the attractions.
There is so much to see close to town. Drive to the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse for some incredible views. The Muiron Islands are fantastic for a day trip with plenty of birdlife and diving spots. South from town is the Charles Knife Canyon, which rewards you with amazing views of the Exmouth Gulf and surrounding gorges. If you head to the Thomas Carter Lookout you can see the endless stretches of the great marine park. Further down is brilliant Turquoise Bay, an ideal destination for a day trip and picnic lunch.
The Cape Range National Park is only thirty minutes drive inland, with amazing gorges, an abundance of wildflowers and incredible scenery. It is worth a day trip at least to see this unique part of the state, and enjoy some of the bushwalking trails. There are wilderness tours that leave from Exmouth, which will take you to places only accessible by four wheel drive. This is some of the most incredible landscapes you could see in Australia, and being so close to the coast it is an ideal holiday spot.
Another attraction is the Ningaloo Reef which basically is right in front of you as you step off the beach. There are glass bottom boat tours for those who want to see the reef in style. For the more adventurous you can't miss the chance to scuba dive, or why not join a special tour swimming with the local whale shark? Although this is the world's biggest fish it is still safe enough to get up close and personal. This reef is a fisherman's paradise, with plenty of game fishing available, or enough isolated spots along the coastline to set up for the day.
With all the activity it is nice to return to civilization for some comfort, and there are plenty of restaurants, shops and cafés to choose from in the heart of Exmouth. There is a wide range of accommodation available, with the Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort a popular choice. It has a massive pool, play gym, and even an aquarium.
Further down the coast, Monkey Mia is known for its friendly bottle nosed dolphins, which swim to the shallows of Shark Bay to play with the families that come to visit, an experience you could never forget. This is a pristine, beautiful part of world heritage coastline, with so much wildlife, picnic spots and bays to visit and enjoy.
There is plenty of accommodation here, with The Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort a great base for exploring the surrounding natural attractions. For the water lover, travel north to nearby Denham for some great fishing, boating, beach activities and water skiing.
Geraldton is one of the last main stops, which is also an excellent base to see attractions such as the Abrolhos Islands, Chapman Valley and the Live Lobster Factory. With panoramic ocean views, miles of beach, wineries and delicate wildflowers at your doorstep it is worth a longer stay.
This entire region is magnificent, with the shimmering blue waters of the Ningaloo Reef a wonderful contrast to the neighbouring national parks. If you opt for driving from Perth to Exmouth you will be enriched by the incredible coastlines, friendly locals and stunning scenery. This is an ideal location for a driving holiday, with everything you need at your doorstep, and nothing but open space and natural beauty before you.
Thu, 10 May 2007 16:39:00 +0000 - The Top 5 Beaches in the World
By William Brister
The lure of the bronze sun, vast azure skies and the endless blue-green oceans on a tropical paradise beach resort make for a perfect holiday destination. With hundreds of beautiful beaches to choose from, some have been given the distinction of being the best beaches in the world. Some of these resorts are listed below.
1) Ka’anapali, Hawaii
One of the most populated, popular best beaches in Maui, Hawaii, Ka’napali is a paradise on earth. It is located in West Maui, two miles north of the historic whaling town of Lahaina and is surrounded by numerous elegant hotels and condominiums. The beach is three miles long and is full of fun-filled activities where you can snorkel, windsurf, jet-ski, parasail and even kayak. It is divided into two separate long stretches by a massive 300 foot cinder cone Pu’u Keka’ known as the Black Rock. The rock divides the sand into two and swimmers find themselves bathing in deep water. The rugged lava coastline around the Rock is also an outstanding snorkeling spot, one of the best on the island. Swimming in the crystal clear waters is safe throughout the year but best outside the season of high winter surfs.
2) Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, USA
With 60 miles of pristine beach, Myrtle Beach water sports and Myrtle Beach fishing are the finest among the different beaches in America. Besides lazing and tanning in the tropical sun, the soft wide beach provides ample opportunities for swimming, surfing, parasailing, shell collecting and volleyball.
Although your fun begins at the beach, the best attraction always, there is plenty more to do at Myrtle Beach. Besides beautiful beaches, it has delectable food, amusement parks, variety of shopping malls, lively nightlife and adventure sports. With hundreds of attractions, both indoors and outdoors, Myrtle Beach offers fun and excitement for all ages to enjoy.
This beautiful beach resort has more than 100 professional golf courses, a NASCAR sanctioned track, minor league baseball as well as tennis. You can take a deep sea fishing adventure from eight different piers or fish the backwaters and creeks all the way from Little River to Pawley’s Island on the South Carolina coast. Moreover, there is a wildlife sanctuary where you are likely to spot alligators and deer combined with several boat tours to give you a real feel of the place.
3) Cancun, Mexico
Cancun is truly known as the vacation haven of the 21st century with gorgeous beaches of white sands and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Having started off as a fishing village of only 120 people, Cancun is now a bustling beach resort with a population of half a million and a tourist onslaught of more than two million a year. One of Mexico’s popular and best beaches it features world class resorts, hotels, clubs and malls. It offers something for people of all ages whether it an all-day fun at the beach or an isolated, tranquil island. It is close to Miami and has a number of activities to choose from like parachuting, jet-skiing, scuba-diving and golf. Topless bathing is an accepted activity in and around the surrounding areas of Cancun.
With striking modern hotels along the beach front and a lively nightlife, it is a fantastic getaway for the weary traveler. It encloses a huge lagoon, with water on both sides. Also, much of the Yucatan is easily accessible from here. There are two quite separate parts to Cancún: the zona commercial downtown which houses the shopping and residential centre and the zona hotelera - a string of hotels and tourist amenities around the Cancún Island. This is a narrow strip of sandy beach connected to the mainland at each end by causeways.
4) Montego Bay, Jamaica
Montego Bay is known for its long sandy stretch of bay with miles of coral reef and some of the most beautiful and best beaches in the world. Montego Bay is Jamaica’s second largest city and rests between the gently sloping hills of Bogue, Kempshot and Salem. It extends approximately ten miles from the suburban rich area of Reading at its western edge to the plush villas and resort hotels of Ironshore and Rose Hall to the east.
Montego Bay is made up of two distinct parts – The Gloucester Avenue now called the Hip Strip and the city proper or the downtown.
All along the coastline are beautiful luxury hotels with three main public beaches which offer all amenities and several water sports. For a quieter and tranquil atmosphere you can head to the white sandy beaches of the Caribbean Beach Park, east of the town of Ironshore.
Montego Bay offers a wide variety of entertainment and sporting activities. From fun on the beach to the delicious food served at the waterfront, white water rafting and adventure sports, catamaran rides and fishing charters, it has it all.
5) Phuket, Thailand
Sand between your toes, stunning tropical sunsets, cold drink in your hand and warm blue inviting seas – this is picture perfect Phuket. This island is known for its silky soft beaches, superb oriental hospitality and great value accommodation. You can go diving in the Andaman Sea, golfing at championship courses or indulge in exciting eco-adventures in the tropical forest of Phuket. Take an exhilarating speedboat trip to surrounding islands or a serene cruise around mystical Phang Nga Bay, or simply enjoy Phuket’s vibrant nightlife in Patong Beach.
Known as the Pearl of the Andaman, Phuket is a large island in the Indian Ocean. The surrounding waters contain much varied marine life and the town is known for its quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture. It is a very attractive island for sightseeing with lovely seashores and forested hillsides.
Mon, 07 May 2007 14:25:00 +0000 - Top 10 things to do and see in Krabi Thailand
By Andy Burrows
With so many activities that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy, Krabi has framed itself as a laid-back resort destination where the emphasis falls on comfort and relaxation instead of on high-energy parties. The natural landscape is accentuated by limestone outcroppings known as karsts that pop up all over the countryside. With abundant plant life and beautiful coral reefs, there's plenty to explore while you're staying here.
Exploring the archipelago
One of the most remarkable ways to experience the limestone rock formations and spectacular beaches is to take a daytrip from one island to another. Many tour guides offer organised daytrips to the highlights of the archipelago, which are worth it and a chance to break away from the crowds of the mainland resort. For the more independent explorer, sea kayaks can be rented for trips out to some of the nearest small islands. A boat day trip to Phi Phi is a must too!
Than Bok Khorani National Park
If you have a tent and would like a place to set up camp, consider heading out to Than Bok Khorani National Park, a secluded place with no concrete accommodation but an abundance of plant species culminating in a very picturesque pond surrounded by gardenias and apocynaceae. The park also boasts several limestone caves and some lovely mangrove forests. Many visit on a day trip from Phuket.
Rock climbing
Many rock climbing outfitters in Krabi also give lessons at various skill levels to help you improve your rock climbing abilities. The limestone cliffs and unique stone formations have helped Krabi carve out a global reputation among rock climbing circles. Ton Sai is the first stop for most climbers, as it’s the most frequented climbed spot in the area. Other climbing outings to more secluded areas are easily arranged with the help of climbing outfitters.
Koh Lanta Marine National Park
The sea gypsies, or Chai Leh, still live and work on the island of Koh Lanta—now a marine national park. For centuries they have practiced their own form of spirit worship and spoken their own distinct language. This island also has the region's standard fare of beautiful beaches, unique rock formations and stunning coral reefs for exploration. Some of the rainforest on this island is virtually untouched and remains protected. Visitors can rent bungalows and stay a while. It’s also connected to Phi Phi island by ferry.
Shell Fossil Cemetery
Thirty five million years ago, the site of Ban Laem Pho Cape was an enormous freshwater swamp that hosted millions of small snails. The remains of these creatures formed a fossilised composite that has grown almost 16 inches thick. This huge slab has become one of Krabi's most popular attractions and can be reached via a 10-mile drive from the town of Krabi.
Krabi nightlife
Ao Nang Beach resort area is the primary tourist hub of Krabi, with Krabi Town itself not offering a whole lot to out-of-towners except for a glimpse of everyday life for the locals. While not quite as exciting as Phuket, in the resort area you'll find bars and restaurants whose doors remain open past midnight, though you'll be hard-pressed to find any exhilarating parties or discotheques. Instead, this is a more family-oriented holiday spot with some nice restaurants and a relaxed, quiet atmosphere.
Scuba diving
The official diving season in Krabi is from November to Mach, though the conditions are hospitable all year round and divers are here at every time of the year. Snorkelling is also a great way to get a view of the coral reefs. Diving companies on the mainland can get you certified as a diver and will also arrange diving trips out to all of the best reefs in the surrounding area. The diving at Phi Phi is especially good.
Biking
Bikes can be rented in the Ao Nang resort area, and a cycling loop that heads out of town guides cyclist through the limestone rock formations that dot the landscape. The road curves through old villages and groves of coconut trees, and riders can stretch this spectacular route into as much as 15 or 20 miles of biking.
Railay Beach
Railay Beach may be the region's most unique coastal area, with its crescent shaped coastline that's cut off from the mainland by huge outcroppings of rock. Only accessible by boat, you can charter a vessel to drop you off for a daytrip to Phra Nang, a sacred enshrined cave, or for an overnight stay in one of the resorts that lay claim to these peaceful beaches. Even the beaches at Phuket don’t even compete!
Daytrip to Wat Tham Seua
Wat Tham Seua is the largest temple in Krabi, and its name means Tiger Cave Temple. It's literally tucked into the limestone cliffs of Ao Luk Thanu mountain range, and the Buddhist monks that live and worship here do so in the caves themselves. The highlight of this temple is 'Buddha's footprint', located at the summit of a 1,272-step climb, a point that affords wonderful views of the countryside spreading in every direction.
Wed, 02 May 2007 15:19:00 +0000 - Alicante An Amazing City In The Costa Blanca Region Of Spain
By Lee Smith
SUMMARY: Uniquely located between the sea and the mountains, Alicante is a beautiful port city and a commercial town in Valencia, Spain. It is also the second largest Valencian city and is the headquarters of the province of Alicante. Home to over 0.3 million people, Alicante is also a popular tourist destination in Europe.
Alicante is a stunning harbour city and also a business town in the Valencia region of Costa Blanca, Spain. Located in the middle of the sea and the mountains, it is the second biggest city in the Valencian region. Alicante houses 0.3 million inhabitants and is also a very popular place for tourists.
Alicante has a small city centre, which means you can visit most of the tourist locations by foot. The city is pre-historical and hence there are lots of historical places of interests in Alicante that are worth a visit. Iglesia de Santa Maria - the 15th century church – is one such edifice, also the oldest in Alicante. The interesting aspect with Iglesia de Santa Maria is that it was a mosque during the Moorish times. The MUBAG and Town Hall are situated quite nearby. Located 5km from the city centre is the Monastery de la Santa Faz, which is a great tourist attraction worth visiting.
However, the most prominent attraction of Alicante is the Castle of Santa Barbara, which overlooks the sea and the city itself, from the top of Mount Benacantil. For tourists, the castle can be reached by road or by means of a lift that ascends from Paseo Maritimo. Another historic palace in the city is the Gavina Palace. The edifice now houses the Provincial Gallery, and its collection of 19th century paintings.
Alicante is also famous for its many museums and the stunning artifacts it houses. You must visit the museums of Alicante if you want to gain an insight into it's history. The Archeology Museum is one such repository that has some invaluable collections of artifacts from the medieval Spanish era. The Nativity Scene Museum at San Augustin Street that houses various scenes and figures from across the globe is one of its kinds and is worth
paying a visit. The entry is free of cost. The Cathedral of San Nicolas de Bari is located just around the corner from the museum.
The biggest of attractions of Alicante, however, is its beautiful beaches and thrilling nightlife that is one of the best in the whole Spain. The Beach of San Juan is a beautiful loclation and is a popular place for clubbers. Almadraba and Albufereta - famous for water sports activities – the city beach Playa del Postiguet - and Urbanova are other top beaches in the city.
Regarding nightlife, the thick of the activities is centered on El Barrio. This area is crammed with pizza joints and bars and beer cellars. Between Alfonso El Sabio Street and Explanada you will find some great restaurants and pubs in one of Alicante's best promenades. Some beer and a walk along the promenade – a lazy vacation evening cannot get any better than this.
Alicante airport is a popular and growing airport with links all across Spain and Europe. Alicante also has a bus station and a central train station that offers daily connections to Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona and Seville. Buses run to almost every destination in Spain.
Mon, 23 Apr 2007 16:09:00 +0000 - Key West - the island in the ocean
The Spaniards, who saw these places, shouted: "Oh, Florida!" Legend has it that that is what the state takes its name. Once in Florida, very often I exclaim after pioneers : Oh, what beaches! Oh, the parks! Oh the museums! Here, as many sites that cover everything in a single article is impossible. Therefore, we will talk only about Key West, one of the islands of the archipelago Florida Keys, the southern state of Florida.
Islands Florida Keys linked to the peninsula of Florida highway unique Overseas Highway. Its length is 113 miles (about 180 kilometers), and is one of the longest highway in the world, connecting the island with a large land.
It built on the spot an old railway, which was built in 1912, millionaire Henry Morrison Flaglerom. Its length is 160 kilometers, a figure unprecedented in those times, especially if one considers that most of the roads had been built over the water. Iron road built seven years; It claimed the lives of 700 people and costing 50 million dollars. But it has only 23 years, the terrible hurricane of Labor Day in 1935 virtually destroyed its ...
Then instead of the railroad car paved road with 42 bridges, one of which is local dostoprimechatelnost correction. Its length - 7 miles (about 11 kilometres), it is called "Seven Mile Bridge", and his picture can be seen in virtually any tourist guide.
The road lies on the island Key West. This is the
ultimate, the most southern point of the United States, zero mile Overseas Highway. There was even a special krasno-cherno-jelty buoy, which is written : "The southernmost point of the mainland United States. 90 miles to Cuba."
The island Key West is very small - just 3.2 by 6.4 kilometres, but the island rich history here lived and created many famous people of America, came here to relax Presidents Truman, Eisenhower and Kennedy (by the way, the presidential residence here called "Little White House"), on the island even has its own airport. Another said that there is always a good weather, the most beautiful eyes, and that the site is the dream of every tourist ... But everything in order.
City artists, writers and ... catsKey West is often referred to as paradise on earth, and, of course, the place could not attract many famous Americans. Here at different times lived and worked John Odabon James, Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, John Dos Passos, Tennessee Williams and many others, known and not, writers, poets and artists. There is an enormous amount of art galleries and small exhibition halls, where you can buy not only these works of art, and cheap paintings by local artists.The city is divided into two parts, Old Town and New Town. Of course, for tourists greatest interest is the Old Town. And it is easy to get around on foot in just a few hours. Generally, I would advice is always walking, as in the search space for the machine, you may lose more than one hour. In an extreme case, you can always find a taxi-cost, it would not be very expensive, and where else in the world you will be able to ride in a taxi pink?!There are many museums, and literary, and memorials, and historic ... Eyes just jawbone. And we must not forget the beaches, fishing. Time here as a slowing down, and will not want to rush. It should be noted that local residents will not hurry, and do not be surprised if in a restaurant you will long serve, it is simply not a rush.So, if you are limited in time and do not want to run from one museum to another, I would advise myself just a few.
Of course, one can not visit the famous Aquarium. It was built in 1934 and has been called the world's first aquarium in the open. Maybe of course it is not the largest in America, but attracts thousands of tourists to its unusual show feeding sharks, and huge sea turtles. Plus, you can touch the hands of underwater creatures, see barrakud, bass, sea bass, yes all, and not pereczyslishy. Sharks and turtles are fed four times a day, feeding time is written in numerous references, so it is easy to podgadati to Aquarium and see and observe the akulim or tortoise lunch. 
After radio can go fishing, the choice is almost unlimited, and to try to catch or raboumec barrakudu. Local fishermen argue that caught even sharks, but this is a great rarity. If you poimaete some unusual fish, the additional fee you can make it stuffed.
Further our path lies in the museum of shipwrecks. The actors, dressed in costumes nineteenth century, the play scenes visitors death shuttle Isaac Allerton, which sank off the coast of Key West in 1856.
And then you can go up to the viewing platform, which since its 20m height was fantastic view of the Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. And who knows, maybe you are lucky, and you will see on the bottom of the sea a ship sunk?Overall it must be said that the Key West house and can have fun. Every month there are various competitions and festivals, so the chance to go to any celebration of a very high, it is a festival of Robert Frost, and the Theatre Festival, and all sorts of music festivals ... In short, it would be to celebrate and reason can always be found.
One such activity is the "Festival sunset passing on Mallory Square. Local residents say it, "accidentally" forgetting to mention that the festival daily. And we are afraid to move enough, someone behind ... And only then found that it is zakat-to every day!
Every day hundreds of people come to the river to watch the sun. Here are the various street musicians, clowns, artists, traders souvenirs, then you can try the local exotic dishes and drinks. But looking eyes, shodite in a small restaurant or cafe, or simply poguleite City.
Our short trip to Key West is coming to an end. But visit here at least once, I would like to come back again. People in Key West and look good, the ocean-warm and everything, beaches, excellent, very fine tasty and varied. And what will you to the happiness? One is tempted to say : Key West tourist-back!
Tue, 17 Apr 2007 19:35:00 +0000 - The Maldives - Water Wonderworld
By Eric Hartwell
SUMMARY: What some people call a "thousand Robinson Crusoe islands" could be your next travel destination. The Maldives are ideal for a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a private getaway.
The Maldives are a perfect destination for a holiday, especially if you enjoy the water and all it has to offer. What some people call a "thousand Robinson Crusoe islands" could be your next travel destination. The Maldives are ideal for a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a private getaway. They are the destination of choice for those that enjoy scuba diving and snorkelling.
Warm temperatures all year round, picturesque scenery, and deep-sea underwater diving are just a few of the great reasons to book a trip to this beautiful Maldivian wonderland. Each of the 86 tourist resorts comprising the Maldives caters for scuba diving, and every one has scuba instructors, equipment, and easy set-up for underwater expeditions.
Special courses cover night diving, rescue diving, underwater photography, simple naturalism, and sharks. The growing interest in marine biology amongst students and laymen has influenced the Maldives' instructional courses. All the dive schools instruct in English, at least. It's not uncommon to have German, Italian, French, and Japanese instruction availability.
Some dive schools are instructor development centers, yet others cater to a large variety of advanced and specialized dive courses. All are concerned for safety and security so you will always be in good hands.
These are the ideal islands to get your introduction into scuba diving because all the islands have the basic equipment of compressors, tanks, BCDs, wetsuits, weight belts, etc. Some islands even rent out underwater cameras and video cameras. Snorkeling is better for those afraid of deep sea diving, and surfing is better for those that want to stay above the waves.
Fri, 13 Apr 2007 11:03:00 +0000 - Travel Central America
Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Central America offers travelers the opportunity to visit one of the world’s most amazing ecological and cultural destinations. Central America is home to beautiful jungles, sandy beaches, waterspouts like surfing and SCUBA diving, and some of the western hemispheres most hospitable resort destinations.
While Central America has experienced a tumultuous past that includes colonial exploitation and violent uprisings, travelers who visit today will experience relative safety. For those visitors who choose to travel South America, each country offers a unique experience that will engage and entertain them.
Check out the following countries and attractions when you travel South America:
Belize:
By far, the most stable country in Central America, Belize was created for travelers seeking a Caribbean flavor with a mainland location. In fact, most visitors agree that Belize has more in common with islands of the Caribbean than with its more volatile Central American neighbors. Home to a 180 mile long barrier reef, Belize is a SCUBA and snorkeling enthusiasts dream.
Guatemala:
Despite its reputation for social and political repression, travelers flock to the Central American country of Guatemala in an effort to see its natural wonders. Huge volcanoes and the regions highest concentration of Mayan ruins draw visitors to this turbulent nation.
El Salvador:
With the civil war of the 1980’s long over, El Salvador is now transformed into a traveler-friendly destination with huge natural volcanoes. Travelers should certainly visit places like the Montecristo Cloud Forest, which receives over 80 inches of rain annually, and the capital city of San Salvador.
Honduras:
Honduras may appear to be a true banana republic, but travel there is easy, enjoyable and inexpensive. The slow pace, natural beauty and low-profile tourism make it particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy getting off the beaten track.
Nicaragua:
This troubled Central American nation is rebuilding after years of war. Travelers are drawn there by its wondrous natural landscapes and vast natural treasures.
Costa Rica:
Known as the most stable and ecologically stunning nation in Central America, Costa Rica is the most successful tourist destination in the region. By embracing a very progressive attitude towards the preservation of the environment, visitors who travel Costa Rica can experience the amazing natural wonders of the Central American region. With miles of beautiful coastline on both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica provides surfing and snorkeling for its guests. The rain forest of inland Costa Rica is home to monkeys, sloths, crocodiles and exotic birds as well as some rare and endangered plant species, as well.
Panama:
Except for the world famous Canal that bears the country’s name, Panama is largely overshadowed by its neighbors as a popular destination for Central American travelers. Those who do choose to visit Panama will be enthralled by numerous natural and cultural wonders that should not be overlooked. Visitors should be sure to experience the nation’s native birds and the thrill of off-shore deep-sea fishing.
Tue, 10 Apr 2007 18:52:00 +0000 - Romantic Vienna - City Of High Culture And Old World Charm
By Andrew Regan
SUMMARY: Spring is here, love is in the air and if you're thinking about whisking your partner away for a romantic weekend then Vienna - with its high culture and old world charm - makes a great getaway for two.
Less well known as a romantic destination than the somewhat clichéd Paris – the Austrian capital of Vienna is one of the most beautiful, sophisticated and vibrant cities of the world. Its blend of historical and cultural heritage mixed with majestic boulevards, medieval streets and ornate courtyards, radiates old world charm and magic.
But it’s not just architecture that makes Vienna a prime spot for a romantic getaway; the cobbled streets are lined with superb Viennese coffee houses, from where you can try an Austrian fruit tea and the city’s famous pastries. Wander onwards and you’ll find cosmopolitan shops, museums and fantastic restaurants to wine and dine in. Try the traditional Wiener schnitzel or beef goulash, both staple dishes in Vienna, or perhaps grab a Wiener from a Wustelstand as you walk past.
For the evenings, why not sample an opera, ballet or concert? Vienna boasts a proud musical heritage and has produced a number of renowned artistic geniuses, such as Schubert, Brahms and Mozart. There are hundreds of bars, clubs and music venues across the city offering countless opportunities to enjoy classical concerts - but make sure you book in advance, as performances at major venues sell out fast!
Vienna is great to visit in winter when the streets are covered in soft snow: the city becomes a glorious Yuletide parade of colour and music in which you can enjoy Gluwein from the Christmas markets stalls and take in the festive street spirit. And if you get cold, step into the Schmetterlinghaus (Butterfly house) - a dreamy enclave containing more than 150 different species of butterflies, which maintains a cosy temperature of 26C throughout the year.
To inject some real romance into your stay, why not take a room in one of Vienna’s grand hotels such as Hotel Sacher, with its blissfully romantic décor such as white and gold rococo furniture, pink marble bathrooms and views of the opera house? Or, how about a stay in Vienna’s first boutique hotel - the Hotel Das Treist - with its laid back élan, colourful interior and chic Italian restaurant?
Getting to this romantic Austrian paradise is quick and easy with cheap flights to Vienna from London taking just over two hours. So if you’re looking for a romantic destination to woo your partner, Vienna - the city of high culture and old world charm - is the perfect place to visit.
Wed, 04 Apr 2007 14:36:00 +0000 - Egypt - Haggling for Bargains
By Elizabeth Hutcheson
Bargaining for goods and services is customary in Egypt and many visitors relish negotiating for that elusive ‘best’ price. But for those unused to the concept, haggling can seem daunting. Securing the ‘right’ price, even for Egyptians, is an acquired skill that takes practice, patience and above all a sense of humour.
When hunting for gifts and souvenirs visitors should never feel pressurised to purchase quickly. Competition is stiff between traders and most shops and markets are open until midnight, seven days a week, affording the visitor plenty of time to browse the wealth of exotic goods available and compare prices.
But there are exceptions to this. Charges are not open to negotiation in coffee shops, restaurants and at fruit and vegetable stalls where profit margins are low. Goods in supermarkets and pharmacies are mostly computerised and prices there are fixed. Private taxi fares should be agreed before acceptance and getting an idea of the real cost of public transport is to be recommended before using.
The local bazaar (souq), where haggling is practically obligatory, can be especially intimidating for the novice shopper on a first visit. Having a drink at any one of the numerous coffee shops is a good way of adjusting to the cacophony of noise and overpowering aromas from spices and smoke. Vendors work extremely hard at enticing potential buyers to inspect their wares. Careful scrutiny of the pantomime of negotiations that follow a successful engagement is the best introduction to the art of Egyptian street trading.
Shopkeepers are more than happy to discuss prices, but most are reluctant to put a value on any item until they have an idea of how much money is likely to be spent. For the serious bargain hunter patience and use of some acting skills is vital. Hesitating, pretending lack of funds and walking away all help.
No trader worth his salt willingly lets a potential buyer go and will eventually name a figure. When he does, a counter offer of at least half is acceptable and from thereon a right good ‘haggling banter’ can be enjoyed by all.
Should a vendor stick at a price that seems too high then either remain persistent, and perhaps casually mention that you have seen the item cheaper elsewhere, or politely depart. A vendor will only let you go if your final offer really is too low.
One useful ploy is to discuss the price of an unwanted item and, when negotiations reach a stalemate, enquire about the item you really want. The vendor, anxious to make a sale, will almost certainly give you his lowest acceptable price for this one.
It can be difficult to prevent others joining in the bidding game, but try not to as it only causes confusion and generally works against you.
Window shopping alone is great fun and a valuable opportunity for tourists to learn about the local people, culture as well as checking out prices. No one is ever obliged to make a purchase, even when offered refreshments.
Should you subsequently find out that someone paid less for the same purchase, don’t worry about it if you think what you paid was fair, reasonable and affordable.
For many tourists the powerful purchasing power of the euro and dollar, combined with relatively cheaper prices for goods and services, is a major reason for choosing Egypt as a holiday destination. But it should be borne in mind, however, that wages are extremely low and for most traders profits are marginal as well as seasonal.
Visitors can generally afford to be a little generous and expect to pay slightly over the odds, especially when asking prices are put into perspective when converted.
However, some unfortunate visitors have been known to forget and squander precious holiday time arguing like crazy over what turned out to be mere pennies in their own currency!
Sun, 01 Apr 2007 18:05:00 +0000 - Adventure in Peru - Search for the Dead
By Vic Hanson
No, it wasn't a failed search and rescue mission; I was just out looking for ancient tombs. Coming back from the neighboring village Oyolo last week, Brad was telling me about talking with an archaeologist who was studying the ancient Inca and Wari cultures of the Cotahuasi valley. I am fascinated by the ruins that I often see on my hikes but I don't really know what I am looking at. Is it Inca or Wari, the remains of a house or just an enclosure for livestock, or what? Some are round, some square, some have the graves in holes in the ground, and other graves have stone structures build above the ground. I was hoping to be able to talk with the archaeologist about some of these questions, and maybe even visit a site with him. I found out that the team was still here and where they were staying, so I went to see them. Unfortunately, the team leader, Justin Jennings, from the University of California, Santa Barbara, had already returned to the United States. I did get to talk to Willy, his Peruvian associate, and some of the students, who were still finishing up the work here.
I also did some research on his website and read about a place called Arcopunko, where there are a bunch of tombs built into a stone arch on the side of a cliff. It was described as being above the current village of Yumasca. I had never heard of Yumasca but started looking on my map in the general area of where they are working now, and found it right away. It is above the hot springs at Luicho, which is where the team is staying. I had hoped my friend Max could go with me, but Monday morning when I went to pick him up, he said plans had changed and he had to work. I did get directions to the trailhead from him and found out that there are two trails, one a narrow shortcut called a pitipan, and the other a wider main trail. I always like the pitipans so headed up that, starting at 9:10 am. A lady at the base of the trail said it was 30 minutes to Yumasca but it took me 45, which was a preview of things to come. When I arrived in Yumasca there was almost no one around, they must have been out working in their fields. I finally found a woman at home with a couple of young children and asked her about the ruins. She said I was on the wrong side of the village, I had to go the other way, and that it was leeeeeeejos. Lejos means far and when they stretch out the vowel like that, it means it is REALLY far. I headed in the direction she indicated and but didn't see the trail so had to ask directions again. and was told there was a wide trail leading up to the top, where the ruins are.
The man I talked to wasn't very open and friendly at first, which is something that Justin had mentioned in his article. They seem to be very protective about the ruins and don't want outsiders, especially gringos, coming in and taking any artifacts. When I assured him that all I wanted to do was look at the ruins and take pictures, he was less suspicious and gave me directions. Ten minutes later, after the trail I had been following turned into a narrow path along an irrigation ditch, I knew I had gone too far. I backtracked a ways and asked again, and a young man pointed behind me and said that was the trail. It didn't look like much of a trail, I had to scramble up a large rock and then over a wall, but it soon turned into a nice trail. I followed that until it came to a grassy area and then I couldn't tell which way it went. An old man had been a few minutes behind me so when he caught up to me, I asked him. He said he had to do something first and then he would show me. I watched him as he plugged a drain hole in a water reservoir and opened another one to send water to a different canal. All of the farming here depends on irrigation and there is a vast system of reservoirs and canals, many of them date back to the Incas. Shortly, after the man had finished his work, he led me up to the correct trail. He said his father used to own all that land but now there wasn't enough water to farm it.
I was soon up on top of a plateau and lost the trail again among various animal trails. I spend over an hour struggling up a hill, feeling very lethargic and sleepy. I'm not sure if it was from lack of sleep due to the workmen starting early upstairs above my bedroom, the bad cold I just got or the medicine I am taking for it. After a miserable time of bushwhacking on various animal trails, I finally found the main trail. I set a goal of getting to 13,000 feet and then I would decide if I should continue or turn around. Reaching that point, I realized that I would not be able to make it to the cliffs where I hoped the tombs would be, before 3:00 pm, which I had set as my turn around time. However, I was feeling a bit better and it was easier going now that I was on the trail again, so decided to try for 14,000 feet. I reached a large bump on the side of the mountain at about 3:10, hoping it would be 14,000 feet, but it was only 13,800 feet. Knowing that my 3:00 turn around time was conservative, I picked out a large rock farther up and headed for that.
At 3:30 I reached the rock, it was at 14,100 feet; at least I had reached that goal. It was tempting to continue, as I was only about 30 minutes from the cliffs, but I had forgotten my headlight so I knew I had to turn around and go down. I was making real good time going down so I took the pruning shears out of my pack and cleared some of the worst of the thorny branches along the trail. Many of the trails are not used regularly and are overgrown with wicked thorns, so I usually carry a pair of pruning shears to make the trails a little more passable. At 5:45 I got down to the junction of the shortcut and the main trail, and decided to take the main trail. It turned out that it went down a very steep and narrow canyon and was of course longer. I was glad to reach the bottom of that before dark, and then had a road to follow back to where my car, was parked at the hot springs. I arrived there at 6:30 and by this time it was dark so the timing worked out perfectly. Next time, I will need to leave earlier, make sure I have my light, and hopefully will find the tombs.
Fri, 23 Mar 2007 16:34:00 +0000 - Kazakhstan - NOT Borat Land
By Chris Merriman
SUMMARY: An article on how life really is in Kazakhstan, from the point of view of a Westerner who moved here in 2006. Ideal for those wanting to learn more, for either an upcoming holiday/vacation or purely for educational purposes.
I have written this article to help people who want to learn more about Kazakhstan. Whilst the film Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan was funny, it did not paint anything like an accurate picture of this country. Some people want to learn more about Kazakhstan purely for their own education, others may be thinking of taking a vacation here. I moved to from Britain to Kazakhstan in April 2006, to Astana, where my wife's parents live. Since then, I've learnt a lot, and seen many of my mis-conceptions blown away.
Things that may grab your attention whilst you’re over here:
Men nearly always shake hands upon meeting one another, even more so if it is the first time you’ve met. Women don’t. If they are family, there may be a peck on the cheek, or a quick embrace. This area is still a little fuzzy to me, so I just stand back and accept whatever comes my way :>
If someone thinks you look a little different to the accepted norm for a Russian or Kazakh person, they will simply stare at you. This shouldn’t be taken as an insult (or an invitation to get to know one another ;>). It is just if they want to get a good look, they won’t be subtle.
People have different coping mechanisms for this behavioural trait. Some avert their eyes, others pretend not to notice. Still others will decide to turn it into a juvenile game. Whoever breaks the stare first loses, and you can keep a tally through the whole day you are out. Once you are up at the end of a day (18-3 for example), you can assume you’re no longer feeling like such a wimpy foreigner. Ummm, or so my friends tell me ;>
Whilst we may all joke about British manners and overly polite social standards, standing in line for something over here is an experience you’re not likely to forget very quickly. You’ll also be likely to quickly re-appraise your understanding of the term 'line' or 'queue'. People will have no shame, nor should you, about pushing their way to the front of what could have been a perfectly civil and organized wait for the bus/ticket desk/shop assistant/train.
I still draw the line at elderly/young people, other than that, its every queue jumper for themselves, ultimately. (This does tend to mean most elderly/young people get served/on the bus before me, but I have this thing against trampling over brittle bones/people smaller than me.)
Upon arrival/exiting the country, be it 8.30pm, 3.45am or 3pm, you’ll likely find yourselves being greeted with a small (OK, more likely a table laden with more stuff than you’d normally see for a ‘light’ meal) snack and some drinks, to celebrate your arrival/time in the country, if you are staying with people, rather than a hotel.
You might not feel exactly like wolfing the whole lot down, but if you take your time, with the food and the drink, you should do fine. DON’T feel obliged to down shots of Cognac/Vodka each toast. Unless that’s your adjusting mechanism to the flights & time difference ;>
Bureaucracy - if you are on holiday, rather than emigrating, coming into and out of the country is the most likely area you’ll possibly encounter any problems. To be fair, we’ve not been stopped in a couple of years, but if they decide you look like a likely person to have violated a rule, there isn’t a great deal you can do about it. Coming into the country, they can decide not to let you in at all, and worse, leaving the country, they are only too well aware that you need to be available to get on a plane pretty soon.
Once you arrive in the country, you will need to register your presence, within 3 or 4 business days. There is nothing to worry about regarding this procedure; it is just so they can know who is officially registered where. Whilst this country is a lot ‘freer’ than it may have seemed to Westerners 15 or 20 years ago, you will have to remember that the approach taken by the government over here to maintain control of the population is not how we view ‘best practice’ in the West. Tough luck, their country, their rules, which, all in all, seems fair, if the roles were reversed, we’d not expect people to complain too excessively about our customs/social rules/laws.
Re. CDs/DVDs vs. portable hard drive. I’ve read around, and people have less difficulty taking hard drives out of the country than lots of discs, apparently. I couldn’t find any info on importing. Personally, I’ve never had a problem in either direction. There is apparently a rule, on your way out of the country, that if Customs discover discs in your luggage, they must have been previously inspected and sealed by a dept. elsewhere in Astana. You’ll need to do this four or five days before the flight. Some people stock up on cheap Software, Music and other media, though don't forget your home country may not allow you to keep these items if they search your luggage on your return.
When in the country, you will see some people walking around in army camo fatigues, most of these people are manual labourers, who use them as hard-wearing clothes to work in. If, however, you see a group of 2-6 young men wandering in ‘urban’ colour camos (blue/purple), these are some sort of street patrollers. No idea on their legal/military/civilian status, I just make sure I’m not littering/jay-walking when I see them around :>
Then you have the regular police force, who you will see in cars (often using their PA systems as public education systems (’Drivers! Do not park here’ or ‘Move out the way NOW’)), on foot, or in little kiosks at key strategic civic points. The worst you can expect from them is a request to see your ID and/or passport.
There is also a traffic police force, who occasionally turn off the traffic lights, and get out their little wands to manually direct the traffic. Unless you intend to drive over here (don’t forget to apply for an International Driving License in the UK, if so), you can safely ignore them.
Finally, you’ll occasionally see the Army guys marching round in unison, but they seem to stay off the streets for the majority of the time.
“So how much money should I bring?”
Well, not sure on total, but if I give you an idea of how much stuff costs here, you’ll be better informed to guess a holiday total I suppose... (All prices are approximate and sampled in Early 2007)
20 fags (Parliament) - $1.50
20 fags (Marlboro) - $1.00
20 fags (Russian smokable stuff) - $0.40
Bottle of coke in a shop - $0.50
Bottle of vodka in a shop - $1.60 to $8, depending on the brand (from drinkable to nice & smooth), whilst you can pay more, what’s the point?
Bottle of beer in a shop - $0.45 to $1.60 (Russian to European brands)
In a restaurant/cafe, fags, coke and beer maybe double the price, or there abouts, vodka costs approximately $4 for 200ml
PC Games/Applications/MP3 collections - $4 to $10, depending on the amount of discs in the box, and how obvious the copy is! Music CDs - About the same as American prices, normally
Taxi ride (real taxi) - $3 to $6 pounds for a 15 minute ride
Taxi ride (flagging down a random car off the street) - haggle on the price, normally around 30% to 60% cheaper than a real taxi
Meal in a cafe (salad, meat dish, french fries, coke, vodka) - Between $8 and $15 per person, depending on the type of place you go to
Meal in a restaurant (same menu as above) - Between $12 and $30 pounds tops, per person. Again, you can spend more if you go high class
Obviously, if you want to get drunk, rather than merely relaxed, add more money for the extra vodka/soft drink/beer in the prices quoted above
Entrance fee to a club - $5 to $20 - basically, the more ‘exclusive’ an activity or brand is, the higher the price soars, prices for drinks in clubs are a little higher than elsewhere.
Kazakhstan is next door to China, so disposable electronic trinkets, that might last 5 years, or 5 days, are to be found in plenty of shops.
If you want any ‘Kazakh’ souvenirs - cultural stuff, definitely bring along a little bit extra cash.
Re. Money - bring at least 100 euros or a little more in dollars, the rest is up to you - there are ATMs over here (don’t forget to budget for bank's commission/charges for this service), and there are at least two places that we know of that will exchange English pounds sterling for Kazakh Tenge, and all currency exchanges obviously accept dollars.
Mon, 19 Mar 2007 13:42:00 +0000 - Diving Paradises On Four Continents
By Harish Kohli
SUMMARY: If you're looking for an adventure that is physically active yet relaxing, mentally stimulating and spiritually uplifting, diving amid the wonders of a coral reef may be the ultimate answer. But where should you go, especially if you have a taste for something and somewhere a bit out of the way?
Here are four corners of paradise for the discerning reef diver, which are teeming with wondrous wildlife but not yet with truckloads of tourists.
ERITREA
Eritrea has perfect coral reefs untouched by humans and teeming with aquatic life in all the colours of the rainbow. At the bottom of the sea you’ll find sunken wrecks, ships, tanks, rocket launchers and even a complete dry dock. In the Dahlak coral reefs you can find 250 species of fish, as well as sharks, dolphins, barracuda, tuna, caranx – narrow-bodied fish with widely forked tails – and dugong, the near extinct sea cow. Dugong are large enough not to have many predators; on the other hand, they have a long life span and are slow breeders, which make them vulnerable to threats. See them while you can. You need a visa to visit Eritrea. There are good hotels to stay in but sleeping on the beach is free and fun.
BELIZE
The Barrier Reef off Ambergris Caye (island) lies about a kilometre off the windward side of the island. At about 300 km, it is the longest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second longest in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef off Queensland.
Inside the reef the water is shallow and blue-tinged; outside the reef, the water is deep and seen from the air looks a dark royal blue. Near Ambergris Caye the reef almost touches land and here it is a magnificent, almost so!id wall of coral formations, broken only by narrow channels called "quebradas". The coral is astonishing in its endless variety of shapes and colours: rainbow-tinged tropical fish, delicate sea fans, sponges and gorgeous coral gardens.
Beyond the reef, the seabed drops sharply in a series of layers to enormous depths, where gamefish such as mackerel, tuna, sailfish and marlin.
To the east of the Barrier Reef there are three separate atoll reefs, which run northeast-southwest and are separated by deep marine trenches. Just to the north, in Mexican waters, is a fourth atoll reef, Banco Chinchorro, where there are abundant wrecks to explore. UK-based operator AwimAway.com (020 7430 1766, www.awimaway.com) an adventure specialist undertakes some interesting tours to the region.
SOUTH AFRICA
Tropical sunshine and the warm Aughlas current have allowed the formation of a unique coral reef at Sodwana, about 400 km north of Durban near the Mozambique border. The reef is home to over 1200 species of reef fish and also hosts visits from mantas, whale sharks, Zambezi sharks, humpback whales and dolphins.
Sodwana Bay – the name means “little one on its own” in Zulu - is one of the most popular of the dive sites, being easily accessible by road from Durban and enjoying temperatures averaging a pleasant 24°–28°C. There are many shallow coastal pools suitable for snorkelling, with interesting reef formations and fish life. Check out with www.awimaway.com for your customised tour to the region.
AUSTRALIA
Yes, of course there’s the Great Barrier Reef, but for something a bit different, think about Ningaloo Reef, which is off the town of Exmouth, pretty much as far west as you can go in Australia (flights from Perth daily).
Ningaloo Reef is a fringing, rather than a barrier reef, because it is quite close to the shore and only shallow water separates land and reef. This intricate reef system stretches over 260 km and, at some points, is only metres from the beach. It is home to myriad marine animals, including the largest fish in the world, the rare whale shark, some specimens of which grow to 18 metres in length. Whale shark visit the Ningaloo Reef between March and June looking for plankton to eat. Humpback whales, manta rays and green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles can also be seen in their season.
The little damselfish, which hide in the coral, the colourful and conspicuous wrasses, the exquisitely patterned and graceful butterflyfish and the similarly gorgeous angelfish, abundant cardinalfish and parrotfish all contribute to making this an environment of rare splendour, impressive as a diving destination all year round.
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 09:57:00 +0000 - Croatia: Jewel of the Mediterranean
by Andrew Scherer
SUMMARY: World travelers, take note: there is no beauty superior to that which can be absorbed by witnessing the natural spenders and the cultural richness of Croatia.
World travelers, take note: there is no beauty superior to that which can be absorbed by witnessing the natural spenders and the cultural richness of Croatia. With a national history dating back to the seventh century a.d., Croatia has exhibited the wonders of, as the country’s national tourism board states: “The Mediterranean As It Once Was”.
Unending natural exquisiteness prevails in all of the varied and marvelous areas that compose Croatia – from the sparkling rivers that spawn from the Adriatic Sea and the Black Sea basin, to the semi-mountainous ranges that harbor wide-ranging magnificent wildlife. While visiting beautiful Croatia, you may be inclined to get in touch with Mother Earth by engaging in a bicycling tour. There are more than sixty active cycling clubs in the country, and you are always cordially invited to participate.
If cycling isn’t for you, then you might elect to go sailing on the Adriatic. Marine life flourishes in this wonderful region as does life in general. When traveling the diverse regions of Croatia, be sure to stop and dine at some of the many authentic and affordable Croatian restaurants. The local produce, spices, and genuine cooking will warm your soul and nourish your body for further exploration of this fabulous land.
You could travel some of the thousands of kilometers of coastline by sea kayak. You could backpack through thousands of square kilometers of unspoiled wilderness. You could simply lie back in the sand and enjoy the bountiful sunshine and crashing tides, soothing your troubles away like drifting sea foam.Whatever method of exploration you elect, enjoyment of a land so enticing is unavoidable. Croatia is a wonderful place to visit; a wonderful place to be enveloped by. The undeniable cultural heritage and pride of Croatia’s indigenous people shows through at every level. Travel to Croatia, and you will never forget the experience.
Fri, 09 Mar 2007 10:19:00 +0000 - Tips and advice for the Business Traveler
SUMMARY: Do you feel exhausted after every business travel? It is true that most of the business travels have tight schedules, and you get exhausted after that. Above that, sometimes you confront many unexpected obstacles that turn your trip completely miserable. Following are a few tips to help you complete your travel successfully. It would be a great help especially for the young executives.
Laptops
Laptops are the most vulnerable accessory for theft. Never leave your laptop away from you while traveling. If you are in the airport or onboard, carry your laptop in your lap or shoulder. Never check the laptop; always carry it as onboard luggage. You may use a leather bag that does not look like the laptop carry bag to avoid attracting the thieves.
Make sure the accommodation you are provided has got the facility to charge your laptop and use it appropriately. However, don?t forget to charge it fully before you start the trip and carry an extra set of battery.
Airport tips
Make sure that you reach the airport at least an hour before. Of course, everybody is aware of it, but problems may crop up if you plan your journey exactly keeping one hour in advance. Try to start your journey to the airport much before the planned time, especially if you are starting on a holiday, or a peak hour of the day, or if you are likely to encounter a bad traffic because of bad weather or other imminent obstacles.
Use the curbside baggage check service available for a minimum amount, and so you can avoid the long queue at the front desk, especially if you are in a hurry.
Flight delays are a common phenomenon, especially in poor weather conditions. While booking your ticket, make sure that you request for the next available flight booking if the flight gets cancelled or delayed. The airlines usually transfer you to their next flights, but are not likely to transfer to their competitor flight unless you make special request for it.
Preparing for a foreign travel
The following are the important tips that guide you prepare for an international tour.- Make a list of the travel documents required well in advance, and get them ready days before your travel.
- Plan your budget according to the travel plan. Even if the company takes care of your expenses, you need to make an estimate of the expenses that are likely to come up. You can avoid the confusion in the exchange rates if you get a clear idea of the exchange rates of the country you are traveling to and the amount that you are carrying. Always ensure that you carry sufficient fund, more than what is required.
- Lastly, buy travel insurance. This would be a security for you throughout your journey. Make sure that you opt for the important services such as the medical emergencies, lost baggage, missed flights, etc.
- Don?t exchange the money at the airport; the currency exchange rates are worse at the airports. Also there are more chances of getting robbed at these notorious places.
Tue, 06 Mar 2007 09:36:00 +0000 - Why Your Next Vacation Should Be A Jamaica VacationOne of the most popular tourist attractions almost anywhere in the world, if you ask almost any vacationer looking for rest and relaxation, would be a spot where the weather is nice and it is near the water or the ocean. It is for this reason that one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world has been Jamaica in the Caribbean islands.
Jamaica has been referred to by many travel authorities as being a tropical paradise. A Jamaica vacation at any of the major Jamaican locations includes beautiful temperate weather, white sandy beaches, beautiful mountain ranges which produce some of the most magnificent sunsets ever seen, as well as a huge variety of things to do, from shopping to casinos to world-class golfing to some of the friendliest and most active nightlife seen anywhere. What more could one ask for?
The lodging options for your Jamaica vacation run the gamut. You can go for the bed and breakfast option, where such opportunities are plentiful, and allow you to get to know the locals a bit better, as well as getting a better sense of what it is like to live in Jamaica and a flavor for the culture and customs. You can choose a mid range hotel, which is very similar to mid range hotels found throughout the US. And you can also opt for the all inclusive luxury resorts, of which Jamaica boasts several. In fact, Jamaica was the home of one of the very first all inclusive resorts, where one price includes virtually everything. At these resorts, just about everything you could want is all without the resort itself.
Many of the mid range hotels and almost all of the resort hotels are also very much geared towards families. You can get adjoining rooms, so that the parents can stay in one room and the kids are separate but still nearby in the room next door. Most of these resorts also have babysitting services and child activity services, which include beach trips, treasure hunting, and so many more things that your kids are sure to enjoy as a very memorable vacation, which allows the parents to go off and get re-acquainted with each other, knowing the kids are in good and qualified hands in their absence.
One tourist type that is usually attracted by thoughts of a Jamaica vacation would be honeymoon couples. Jamaica presents an ideal atmosphere for newlyweds. Even if you do not stay there, you should visit Treasure Beach, which is home to an ideal honeymoon resort known as Jake’s Place Hotel. If you are not relaxing at the beach, you may also want to include Strawberry Hill in your Jamaica vacation itinerary, which will treat you to Old World ambience, some of the best Jamaican native food to be found, as well as mountain hiking expeditions.
There are so many options for what to see, what to do, and where to stay on your Jamaica vacation that you would be best advised to do some planning before you start your trip. You may even find that you need to allocate more days on your vacation to be able to see and do everything you discover is possible as your plan your ideal Jamaica vacation.
Thu, 01 Mar 2007 09:10:00 +0000
