Best Beach Hotels In Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in the world for tourists. The Hawaii beach hotels abound in positive energy and are one of the best to rejuvenate the tired souls of city dwellers. Maui hotel deals are the best and the Maui beach remains true to its word. The Maui hotel deals are set amidst beautiful scenery that showcases nature at its best. There are rainforests that one can choose from and there are also beaches that are equally enticing. In the wildlife around the Hawaii beach hotels one can also see the humpback whales in their natural habitat. This makes the Maui hotel deals more interesting. Everybody swears by the fact these waters are one of their natural environs where they come during the winters in the 'Au'au Channel. Another flavour added the Hawaii hotels is the sun that shines brightly all the time.
This makes it a cheerful place devoid of worries that ail many people who live in gloomy dark conditions all throughout the year. It is possible to look for the best hotel deal in Maui because of the various options that are there to choose from. The Hawaii hotels are always booked because people are always satisfied with their service. If one needs to get a clear picture of the Hawaii hotels then one needs to visit some of the websites of these hotels. The Westin Waikiki beach resort is one such place which is famed for its service. But the Maui hotel deals are the best because of their unique location among the best of nature's treasures in the Hawaiian Islands.
But one visit might not be enough to take in all the beauty that the Hawaii beach hotels offer. It is almost like one has to be receptive to the environment around the Hawaii beach hotels always. There are other Hawaii beach hotels like the Royal Hawaiian. The essential feature of these Hawaii beach hotels is that other than the hospitality they also offer excellent food that has a lot of variety. One might choose from the restaurants that are on offer at the hotels in there. Some Hawaii beach hotels also have a lot of bars that offer a lot of choice when it comes to their favourite beverage. It is popularly called paradise because there is just so much to choose from. The Maui hotel deal comes with transport facilities as well.
That should not pose a problem for anyone wanting to go to any place in Hawaii because car rentals are available as a part of the Maui hotel deal itself. Some of the Maui hotel deals also have an airport pick up and drop off facility. The only way to book rooms in these Hawaii beach hotels is to book in advance. Because of their popularity they are sought after by all the family vacation tourists and also the honeymooners who want to go to a beautiful and secluded place like Hawaii.

Visit Hawaiian Hotels for information on Hawaii beach hotels and Maui hotel deals.

Where to Eat in Kuala Lumpur

Anyone hopping off planes in Kuala Lumpur will certainly be concerned with where to go to get a bite to eat, so doing a bit of research before entering the city could be a good idea.
By doing some planning before you go, you will be able to make sure you find a restaurant that suits your tastes quickly and easily - not a bad idea in a city where there are so many restaurants and bars that making a decision about where to dine could be rather tricky.
If you're eager to sample some of the local Malayan produce, then you really should head to the Bukit Bintang district first. Once here, you will be faced with a vast array of gastronomic delights to suit all palates, with market stalls situated alongside luxury restaurants - perfect for both those who have cash to splash and travellers on a strict budget.
The most famous part of this particular quarter of Kuala Lumpur is perhaps Bintang Walk, home to a huge number of open-air cafes, restaurants, clubs and specialist shops. If you're lucky and in the area at the right time of year, you could also come across concerts and street parties, as well as fashion shows, so keep your camera at the ready.
You might want to give the Bon Ton Restaurant a try while on the Walk. This is one of Kuala Lumpur's local landmarks and has an al fresco dining area surrounded by lots of lovely green trees. You might prefer to book a table for the evening, as the venue is illuminated by a number of colourful neon lights as the sun goes down.
If you're eager to sidestep any restaurants similar to those back in the UK, a trip to Jalan Alor could be a good idea. In this district, people eat outside with the tables lining the town's streets on both sides and hawker stalls dotted here, there and everywhere, selling local delicacies at very reasonable prices.
Of course, some will prefer to stay on the beaten track and the KLCC Mall could be a good choice if this sounds like you. You could find what you're looking for at the Poppy Garden, which has an extensive menu of Thai food, including Pra Sum and tom yam.
Alternatively, you may prefer the delights of Hakka Republic Wine Bar & Bistro, which has a wine list that is generally acknowledged to be one of the best Kuala Lumpur has to offer.

Book cheap hotels in Kuala Lumpur and you could save plenty of money to spend on eating out. Find the perfect budget accommodation by reserving your room with HostelBookers today.

Travel On A Budget Without Making These Mistakes

Budget travelers are increasing by the minute. More and more people are getting into the bandwagon of shoestring traveling because of all the perks that come with it. The best perk is of course to enjoy a vacation without having to spend a lot. Of course, like with any other good thing, this one has some drawbacks too that you need to keep an eye on if you don't want to end up having a disastrous vacation. Here are some tips on how to keep things right during your budget travel.
Trading safety or cleanliness for a cheap hotel price
When looking for a hotel, it's okay to sacrifice small things to cut down the price. For example, you might opt to get a smaller room or a room without a flat screen TV just to pay less. That's all right. But never sacrifice safety or cleanliness for this. If you're reading online reviews and you find out that the hotel is plagued with bed bugs or the rooms are unbearably smelly, don't take the risk and go find something better. If you find out that the overly cheap hotel you're thinking of booking is located in a shady part of the city, don't endanger your safety to save cash. You might end up losing even more money when you get mugged or get hospitalized after catching a disease.
Under packing to travel light
Some airline tickets that are of discounted rates don't allow as much baggage weight as regular plane tickets. This is why, many tourists make the mistake of under packing and then ending up buying clothes or things in the vacation destination, which costs them more in the long run. There's nothing wrong with packing light but you must not under pack. There's a big difference between the two. With the former, you are able to bring all the things that you need by employing some creative tactics such as packing multi-purpose items or including clothes that are easy to wash. The latter, meanwhile, means packing insufficiently for the trip.
Going during off peak season
It's a common advice for budget travelers to go travel during the off-peak season. And that's actually a very good way to save money. But what some people do wrong is that they go to the place at the wrong time. For example, if you're planning to have a beach vacation, it's not a good idea to book your flight during the winter just so you can save money. How can you expect to have fun at the beach when you're shivering cold? It's all right to avoid the peak season like the summer or spring break, but at least schedule your vacation during a time when the sun is out to shine on you.
Getting the cheapest travel insurance
Visitor medical insurance or visitors health insurance is essential to any trip. While it would be smart to shop around to find good rates, it's a bad idea to get the cheapest in the market that doesn't have sufficient coverage. Be sure to get a plan that has everything you need to be covered for your trip.

For more tips and information about visitor medical insurance please visit visitors health insurance

What Do All-Inclusive Vacations Offer?

All-inclusive vacation packages offered by tour and travel companies include a wide range of facilities and services that remove the burden of worrying about overspending your travel budget or searching for convenient solutions in an unknown territory. The package may vary with respect to the price and chosen destination.
If you are planning a family vacation, then all-inclusive vacations can present a feasible option for a budget holiday. Your travel agent or the preferred travel agency will make the necessary bookings and reservations for transport and accommodation. You will be informed well in advance the name of the airline that you will board, the hotels where you will stay or the type of food that you can expect in the package. There are many activities and amenities included in an all-inclusive vacation package. You can choose your pick of activities from the list as per your interest and convenience.
Room amenities can include options such as a bottle of wine or flowers on arrival. Some resorts also include refined facilities like scented body oils and special aromatic teas. You can expect a Jacuzzi, private pool and patios at most of the luxury resorts. If you book a suite with private pool, you may also get facilities of a personal sauna and lounge area. Some packages also offer complimentary room service. These packages are inclusive of taxes and service charges. Car rentals and massage parlors are other amenities that you can avail in all-inclusive vacation package.
If you are interested in outdoor activities, then all-inclusive vacations package have a bunch of fun activities that you or your entire family entertained. You can choose from a wide range of activities such as trekking, water sports, cruises, and even safaris in specific destinations. If you visit the Caribbean Islands, you can stay at luxury resorts that offer non-motorized water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, wind surfing and sailing. Some resorts also offer sports like golf, volleyball, and tennis. Alternatively, you can participate in yoga classes or work out in a well-equipped gym. If you are travelling with kids, there are many all-inclusive resorts that offer fun activities and facilities for children. They include kid clubs in the resort as well as passes to nearby theme parks. Kids can have fun in theme parties, games and events organized in the kid clubs of the resort. Some resorts allow free stay for kids aged less than 12 years and also provide free coupons for food.
Some travel agencies also offer special or customized packages to suit the traveler's interest and expectations. For example, engaged couples can choose suitable wedding packages that include legal fees, organizing the event, marriage license, champagne, wedding cake, bouquet and gifts for the bride and groom.
In this manner, booking an all-inclusive vacation is ideal if you do not want to worry about car rentals and reserving accommodation. It also helps in trying out various local activities and participating in fun events. This policy can help you save considerably if you consider booking separate accommodation and spending on individual activities.

From cheap last minute flights to discounts on last minute vacations, FlightNetwork is the answer for travellers on the go!

Don't Know Where to Travel? On Your Travels Beware

Most people associate traveling with escaping to a nice exotic place: sleeping in, walking down a remote beach, and enjoying cocktails while watching a sunset.
That may be a part of traveling, but there is one quality of traveling that many people don't think about until they come home: the return.
I want to go into specific detail on two feelings you may feel after "coming home." Arrogance, and later, Discontent.
Travel always broadens the mind. That, I think, is unavoidable. The degree to which it broadens your mind, however, is actually the question. The issue is that once you return home, you may start realizing there are some things about "home" you don't like or downright hate.
You may realize that you suddenly perceive your fellow countrymen as well mannered, poor mannered, civilized, or uncivilized. You may think they are well dressed or poorly dressed compared to the rest of the world.
You may think you are wealthy and have more than you should. Or you may think that you deserve more.
The first time I came back from my first set of travels, the strongest part of my trip was... the absolute downright dislike of America/Americans I felt when I came home:
I thought Americans had god-awful manners. You mean you don't eat meals with a knife and fork?
I thought Americans dressed badly. Clothes that hardly fit their bodies, tshirts on all occasions, and no sense of style.
I thought Americans were naive and unworldly. Really? You don't know what country Prague is in?
I thought the American government and political systems were awful. Where most Europeans had incredible life benefits most Americans were far behind the curve.
And then it hit me.
I had encountered one of the worst bugs of traveling. Arrogance.
Arrogance can sometimes be extremely difficult to spot by yourself.
A very predictable phase most travelers go through first is feeling like they know the entire world. I thought that I knew more than my friends, but once I realized how ridiculous my assumptions were I felt awful.
Traveling can bring you to a more evolved state of mind. Or you can end up as a character that few people want to associate with.
Coming home from a long trip can evoke a variety of feelings: nostalgia, happiness, sadness, discontent, arrogance, and so on.
It always feels weird for me to come back to where I live. People around me are particularly concerned about whose lawn is greener, whose kid went to Harvard, and who got a new beamer.
Sometimes when you travel and come back to such clear materialism you just get exhausted from all of the monotony; you want pure life, you want passion, you want experiences that give you goose bumps again.
Sometimes life just doesn't cut it anymore and you need to escape to somewhere else.
Everyone's complaints just seem so trivial. You wonder how people can be so myopic to care about such unimportant things in life.
It's okay.
The phase will pass.
But for now, just remember that travel is well worth your time, and if it teaches you any lesson that will be humility. It will teach you lessons whether you like it or not. So you had better sit back and prepare for the ride.

For more information about planning your travels or more information on seizing life while you're young, please check out milkthepigeon.com

Top Attractions in Soho

If you're keen to spend some time in one of London's most bustling areas, Soho is hard to beat.
Situated within the West End, you'll find this district offers something for everybody and with several high-quality hotels in Soho to choose from, this is certainly somewhere you should consider as both a place to visit and somewhere to stay in the capital.
For this reason, looking at 3* hotels in London in the area could be a good choice. Not only will you get a comfortable room that offers lots of extra amenities, but you'll also pay a reasonable price so that your entire budget won't be taken up by your accommodation costs.
However, it's a good idea to sort out somewhere to stay before you head down to the capital and by booking hotels in the West End you will be in a convenient position to visit one of the many nearby theatres.
Dozens of performing arts venues are situated in the vicinity but perhaps one of the best to visit is the Palace Theatre. This cultural institution has put on several top-quality productions over the years, including Monty Python's Spamalot and Les Miserables, and its ornate redbrick exterior makes it easy to spot.
You can be certain that you'll be able to watch top-class shows here, although you may also want to check to see what's on at the likes of the Criterion Theatre and the Prince Edward Theatre.
But if you'd prefer to take in some live music instead, why not head to Ronnie Scott's?
This venue mainly plays hosts to jazz acts, but singers and musicians across all genres have appeared here over the years. Jamie Cullum, Ella Fitzgerald and Jeff Beck are just some of the big names that have taken to the stage here, although Ronnie Scott's is perhaps best known for being the site of Jimi Hendrix's last show before his death in 1970.
Perhaps one of Soho's most popular attractions is Carnaby Street. Despite its name, this shopping complex spreads out across 12 streets and not only will you find a selection of well-known outlets but also several independent boutiques.
Everything from homewares and beauty products to men's fashion and shoes can be purchased here, but if you need to take a breather from hitting the shops head to one of Carnaby Street's cafes and restaurants for something to eat.
You'll also find a selection of bars and nightclubs here, so Carnaby Street can also be the location for a night out on the town and when you consider that it was at the epicentre of London's swinging 60s it should be of little surprise that this is a place where you can let your hair down and have fun! Soho is also the centre of London's gay scene, so there should a pub or club to suit most tastes.
But if you want something a little more laidback, the nearby Trocadero complex could make for a relaxing, yet no less fun, evening. Located near Piccadilly Circus, the building has a cinema and crazy golf course, not to mention several floors of arcade games.
Whatever you get up to in Soho, there's a good chance you'll work up an appetite. However, you needn't venture out of the district in order to sample high-end cuisine, as there are several award-winning eateries where you can dine.
These include Gauthier Soho, which serves modern French fare and has secured a Michelin star as well as a whole host of prestigious accolades.
No matter whether you're searching for a great night out, keen to spend an evening at the theatre or simply want to enjoy fabulous shopping before tucking into dinner at a top-quality restaurant, Soho offers everything you could possibly want.

If you are searching for hotels in Soho, come to AboutRooms.com.
Visit us and you can check out a range of 3* hotels in London - including hotels in the West End - so you can be sure you'll be close to this vibrant, bustling district.

Enjoy Your Journey From High Wycombe to Heathrow

If you are visiting England, you may feel upset at home if you don't have the chance to visit High Wycombe before you go home. The city is located in the middle of the loveliest countryside in the southern part of the Great Britain. As a result, it has often become one of the most attractive destinations for tourists visiting the country. It is the largest city, deep in the valley, that tourists can find within the Buckinghamshire. The city was once known as England's furniture capital as well thanks to the furniture industry that grew so huge between the years of 1700s to the 1800s.
When tourists visit the High Wycombe, they may as well visit 'The Pepperpot'. This is the Little Market House which was built by Robert Adam a long time ago. It is located at the western end of the wide and typical Georgian High Street in High Wycombe.
Then, just in front of 'The Pepperpot', there is the Guildhall. This is where local citizens annually celebrate a ceremony which seems to have dated from the medieval age. During this ceremony, the local citizens will usually examine the Mayor as well as the Charter Trustees. This is intended to find out whether or not they have used people's tax money to make themselves fat.
The High Wycombe Museum is also quite an attraction for everyone visiting England. Built with the style of the 18th century, the museum will take visitors through the history of the city. As it turned out, High Wycombe mainly grew up depending on the chair industries. The museum is also quite unique thanks to its interactive displays. These displays will become a shop at one time and an exhibition at another time.
Another place you will have to visit while you are in Britain is the artificial lake known by the local people as 'The Rye'. There are hanging beach woods binding the lake, giving the impression of a natural and lively lake. When it is summer, you will be able to see a lot of people boating as well as fishing at this lake.
Now, when you have finished your journey to the High Wycombe, the next thing you know is that you need to go back to your home country. In this case, it is recommended that you take the impeccable services offered by the Heathrow airport.
Situated at the Compass Centre, Nelson Road, the airport is just 15 miles away from the western part of the Central London. If you are going by car, a taxi for example, there are quite a few convenient parking options available. These options are valet parking, business, long, and short stay. However, if you are a tourist, it is recommended that you simply take a taxi to the London Heathrow Airport.
When you have finally made your way to the airport, there is still another thing you may need to do. It is to choose which airline you want to use. Fortunately, there are lots of options available, such as the Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Qantas, and a lot more.

Neales Taxis is the largest taxi company in High Wycombe. They have very competitive fares for High Wycombe to Heathrow Airport and Heathrow to High Wycombe

Best Tourist Attractions in Greenland

Greenland is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit on an Arctic cruise, making it a popular choice for many tourists looking to try something a little different on their holidays.
Offering you the chance to see wonderful sights, enjoy local hospitality and learn about the country's history, there is something to cater for every taste.
Before you disembark from your cruise liner, it is likely you will be treated to a number of the natural wonders for which Greenland is famous, including its amazing icebergs and glaciers.
In the north of the country, these can reach up to 100 metres high, although they are slightly smaller - but no less stunning - towards the south.
Furthermore, you might catch a glimpse of some of the local wildlife, particularly if you are visiting Nanortalik, which is where a number of the endemic animals in the region reside.
Polar bears, Arctic foxes, seals, reindeer and musk oxen are just a few of the creatures you may be lucky to see while touring the country.
For those who stop off at Qaqortoq, the most populous town in southern Greenland, there is no better place to start a sightseeing adventure, with the settlement having numerous attractions to keep you occupied for the day.
This includes Qaqortoq Museum, which is based in one of the country's oldest buildings - a 200-year-old former blacksmith's shop.
The structure now holds many historically significant exhibits, such as Norse artefacts, national dresses, hunting equipment and old Inuit boats.
Art lovers can also see the Stone & Man project in Qaqortoq - a collection of more than 40 sculptures carved into rock faces and boulders around the town.
First started in 1993, the initiative saw artists from all around Greenland and Scandinavia attempt to turn the settlement into an open-air gallery over the space of a year.
However, if you are more interested in testing out authentic Greenland cuisine, you may want to take a day trip to the country's capital, Nuuk.
Here, you can select from a range of excellent restaurants serving up local cuisine or food from all around the world, including France, Japan and Thailand.
If you do decide to go for traditional Greenland fare, you can rest assured that the ingredients will all be sourced from the surrounding natural landscape, including a wide variety of fresh meats such as whale, musk ox, seal and reindeer.

There is much to see and do when stopping in Greenland as part of a cruise - so why not check out the range of Arctic Iceland and Greenland cruises provided by Fred.Olsen today?

A Tourist's Guide to Milan

Milan is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Italy and is known the world over for its fashion and its football, of course. Although many designers are no longer based in Milan, it remains the inspiration capital for fashion and the twice yearly fashion shows means there is an influx of designers, buyers and of course super models from the world over.
Best Time to Travel to Milan
The best time to travel to Milan has to be during the fashions shows that are held twice a year. However, the weather in Milan is pleasant all year long, so if you want to enjoy the pleasure of shopping (or window shopping) and all the arts, history and culture that Milan has on offer, without the business of the paparazzi and fashionistas, you could visit Milan at any other time of year and have a very enjoyable experience.
Attractions to See in Milan
The main attractions in Milan are:
• The Basilica Sant' Ambrogio, built by and dedicated to the patron saint of Milan. The remains of three different saints can be viewed in this Basilica.
• The Monumental Cemetery, where many famous people have been buried. However, the cemetery is better known for its fabulous design and the chapel that remembers the 800 inhabitants of Milan who were killed in the concentration camps during World War II.
There are, of course, many other museums and churches to visit in Milan, each with beautiful architecture and fascinating history.
Restaurants and Bars in Milan
Milan offers restaurants that cater for all tastes and budgets. Some of the cheaper restaurants include Brek, a self-service restaurant and Anema e Cozze a pizzeria. If you are happy to spend a little bit more, you should not miss El Brellin, with its candlelit outside courtyard and wonderful fresh Italian food, or the Chandelier, one of Milan's more glamorous restaurants. For higher budget dining, you could try Cracco, the restaurant owned by Italy's master chef Carlo Gracco, or Armani Nobu, where you can sip sake with gold leaf!
As far as nightlife is concerned, there are more bars and clubs in Milan than any single person can now. Bars range from the comfortable and cosy to the stylish and modern. Knowing which clubs are the best is very difficult, as the status of a pub or club can change overnight due to word of mouth advertising from those who matter.
Transport in Milan
If you are planning a visit to Milan, hiring a car could be a great and cost effective way to allow you to not only see Milan but also the surrounding areas. Some of the companies offering car hire in Milan include Car Hire 3000, Auto Europe, Maggiore, Avis, National Car, Europcar, Nova Car Hire and Noleggio.
Whether you are interested in art, architecture and culture, food and wine or fashion and want to be seen with the crème de la crème of the fashion world, Milan is the place for you. It offers everything that makes a city trip enjoyable and you are sure to have a very memorable experience.

If you do decide to opt for car hire Italy, it is a good idea to check out the rates and car hire companies before you travel. AnyCarHire can help to organize a car hire Milan Airport to be waiting for you when you arrive, leaving you to have a stress free journey in complete relaxation.

Seek Adventure on a Seattle Holiday

If you're looking for an active vacation, Seattle would be the perfect choice for a holiday because of how close the destination is to the Canadian Rockies - one of the best places in the world to go if you're a fan of the great outdoors.
Should you decide to head to Seattle, you will find that there are various ways in which you can get to know the metropolis.
If you're staying for a while, there's no reason for you not to try them all - and you will probably want to, since they will all give you a very different experience of this part of the US.
You might want to hire a bike or two and familiarise yourself with the metropolis using a bit of pedal power. An urban cycling tour is one of the best ways to see Seattle's city landscapes, picturesque waterways and stunning mountain views.
Why not start your bike trip at the world-famous Olympic Sculpture Park and head on past the waterfront and ship canal, seeing some of the famed neighbourhoods as you go?
You'll come across a lot of art in the Sculpture Park, watch ships as they navigate their way around the Ballard Locks and stop in awe when faced with the amazing views of the Olympic Mountains.
If you're particularly lucky, you could even watch salmon making their journey along a fish ladder - not a sight you're likely to come across every day. Then cycle through the hip Fremont district and keep your camera at the ready to snap a few pictures of the floating homes on Lake Union.
Should you decide you want to see a bit more of this lake, you might be taken with another way of seeing Seattle - by kayak.
This particular lake is a very important habitat for lots of wildlife and flowers, with a wide variety of birds waiting to be spotted in the Washington Park Arboretum. You'll also come face to face with some wonderful views of the Seattle skyline and can spend time exploring the coves around the lake.
However, the best way to get to know Seattle is by foot, since you can wander around at your own pace and spend a lot of time doing as you please.
If you do decide to walk around, you should check out the Pike Place Market and stop there to have a rest and listen to a few buskers before heading off for some refreshments at one of the famous clubs, bars and restaurants in the area. On foot, you are sure to learn all about Seattle's local grunge scene and discover the impact the city had on global music.
Should you plan to carry on your active holiday, head to the Canadian Rockies - which are located on the very doorstep of Seattle.
Here, you will be able to enjoy adventurous pastimes such as canoeing, golfing, backpacking, skiing, biking, fishing and hiking - all of which can be signed up for in the Banff National Park.
This part of the world is well known for its hiking opportunities and you will find some of the most beautiful icefields, glaciers, lakes and peaks in the country at this site.
Head for Sunshine Meadows if you don't want to exert yourself too much - you can find some great views of Mount Assiniboine here - while Lake Louise would also be a good choice if you're new to area and don't want to tire yourself out excessively.
Should you wish to exert yourself a little, give Cory Pass - one of the hardest routes to be found in the national park - a go.
This 13 km loop should take you around six hours to complete and you might want to keep your camera in your hand, as this is bear country and you will find lots of great photo opportunities will arise.
As you can see, there is much to consider adding to your itinerary while on an activity holiday in this part of the world, so consider making it an extended break that will offer you enough time to see Seattle and indulge in the many pursuits available in the nearby Canadian Rockies.

Looking for an activity holiday that incorporates a spell of traveling to Canada? Book Canadian Rockies tours with Trek America and you can do just that.

Frankfurt Christmas Market

The Frankfurt Christmas Market has been around for over 600 years and is steeped in history and tradition. By far one of Germany's oldest and most popular markets in terms of the number of visitors and sheer size makes it one of the most important markets in Germany.
A testament to the popularity of the Market can be seen in the 'tribute festivals' that have sprouted all over the UK. There are similarly named Markets in Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester and Edinburgh.
The Market is situated across the Romerberg square, Paulsplatz and Mainkai quay surrounded by the stunning architecture and scenery of Frankfurt itself. The market features over 200 stalls selling arts, crafts and Christmas foods and drinks. There is also a variety of entertainment centred around a 30-metre high Christmas tree at the market's centre.
Food at Frankfurt Christmas Market
The first thing to greet you as you enter the market is the cacophony of seasonal scents from the traditional German food on offer: baked apples, roasted nuts and gingerbread among others. The culinary delights on offer in the market are quintessentially German and unashamedly Christmas in nature. Accompanying the ever present German sausage offering is German Christmas goose as well as "Brenten", "Bethmaennchen" and "Quetschemaennchen" which are miniature marzipan-filled treats and a staple in Frankfurt at Christmas. One mustn't forget to mention the famous German mulled wine, to warm the cockles of your heart, which is available everywhere.
Main attractions at the Frankfurt Christmas Market
Without a doubt the chief attraction of the market is the 30m high Swiss Christmas tree around which the market is based, an easy meeting point should you lose your companions because it's visible from nearly every part of the market and everyone knows where it is. Another must see site is the Alte Nikolaikirche, The Old Nikolai Church, which is one of Frankfurt's oldest churches - first mentioned back in 1264 although it is thought to be even older. The church is famous for its carillon of more than 40 bells that sounds daily so you're sure not to miss it.
Christmas Markets in Germany
With so many stellar German Christmas Markets the most difficult choice is which to visit. A good idea is to attend a major city market, get your shopping out of the way, and then visit one of the smaller examples nearby to experience a real romantic charm. This way you get to experience the awe inspiring larger markets in Germany as well as the allure of a more intimate venue. Frankfurt is therefore an ideal choice as the charming Wiesbaden Christmas Market is not far away.

DERTOUR is a UK based travel agency with 50 years of experience specialising in German Christmas Markets including the popular Frankfurt Christmas Market, taking travellers to the heart of Europe. DERTOUR caters for a large range of budgets, ensuring that anyone can experience the true culture of Germany and other popular destinations within Europe.

Adventure of Surfing: The Top Three Best Surf Spots in The World

Surfing is a very challenging and exciting water sport that a lot of people enjoy. Many people enjoy riding big waves, watching the sunset, and feeling the adrenalin rush when a big wave comes. Surfers from all over the world travel thousand miles to the best surf spots in the world. The adventure of surfing does not only give them the enjoyment of sport itself, but also new cultural experiences. They easily make friends with other surfers from other countries, blend with the local culture, learn a little bit of the local language from the locals, and sample the local cuisine. Through the adventure, surfers can expand their network and share their exciting experiences with others. Some of the best surf spots in the world become their main travel destinations, although sometimes they find hidden treasures around the main spots that are also great.
The first surf destination that is also known as a surfers' paradise is Gold Coast, Australia. Located in the southeast corner of Queensland, Gold Coast offers the sunny subtropical climate and several perfect beaches for surfing. The waves are one the most consistent in the world and therefore it is very easy to get a good wave. The number two surf destination is Mentawai Islands, Indonesia. Located in the western coast of the island of Sumatra, the archipelago consists of four main islands that block waves from reaching the mainland Sumatra. Hence, you will always find big waves around the islands. Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, is number three on this list. Located in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, the bay consists of several beaches with good waves, but the waves are especially great during winter time. Super Tubes, which is one of the popular beaches in Jeffreys Bay, plays host to the annual Billabong Pro World Championship Tournament. Your adventure of surfing in those three paradises is guaranteed to be amazing.
Besides the three surf destinations above, there are several other locations which are equally interesting, such as Fuerteventura (Spain), El Salvador, Costa Rica, California (United States), Bali (Indonesia), Santa Catarina (Brazil) and Samoa. These places offer great waves and beaches that are worth visiting. Your adventure of surfing is a never ending adventure as there are just so many great places for surfing around the globe. Just make sure you go those places in the right time as the waves are also better during certain times of the year.

Pack your travel bag and surfboard and quickly head to the best surfing destinations in the world. Your adventure of surfing will never be the same if you have not been to any of those paradises.

Best Areas To Stay In Rome

If you're planning a trip to Rome, you will quickly find that there are many areas within the city that offer their own uniqueness. When picking a place to stay in the city, consider your options carefully so you can live out your personal Roman holiday to its fullest.
Navona and Trevi
Serving as Rome's historic centre, Navona and Trevi is filled with Renaissance era palaces and churches. Numerous museums are scattered amongst the century old buildings. Cafes line the quintessentially Italian city squares. Navona and Trevi is a major tourist attraction as it provides easy access to some of the world's most famous and beautiful fountains including the Tortoise Fountain and Trevi Fountain as well as the famed Spanish Steps. The area is full of hotel options for all types of travelers.
Via Veneto
If you're looking for a little more glamour on your vacation in Rome, consider staying in Via Veneto. Famous for its cafe culture of sophisticated ease, the region is also filled with some of the most decadent shopping in the world. Prada, Gucci and Armani all have boutique stores in Via Veneto. Even those whose style and pocketbook don't fit the high fashion lifestyle find themselves window shopping in the uniquely glamorous Roman neighborhood.
Central Station
When looking for something a little more reasonably priced than what one may find in parts of Rome like Via Veneto, Central Station offers several good options for the more moderate of tourists. It is easily accessible from the Leonardo da Vinci Airport and is easy to navigate by car. The remains of the Baths of Diocletian and the world famous Santa Maria Basilica can be easily accessed from the Central Station area.
Colosseum and Roman Forum
For the romantics out there, the Colosseum and Roman Forum sector of Rome is home to some of the most famous ancient ruins in the world. The area boasts of the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, Capitoline Hill, Circus Maximus and the Via del Fori Imperiali, amongst others.
The Vatican
You cannot mention Rome without considering the Vatican. Though you cannot stay within the Vatican walls, just outside there is a plethora of options. Fine hotels are mixed in the largely residential area that is quaint and quiet yet offers a variety of small shops. If your main stop is the Vatican, staying in this area would be ideal. The Vatican museums quickly amass huge lines and staying nearby could be a huge advantage.
Rome has so much to offer from its ruins to its modern day wonders to its deeply spiritual communities. Picking just one place to stay can be a challenge but knowing what side of Rome you most want to experience will make that decision a little bit easier.

Book an apartment Rome for your short stay. Rome holiday apartments are located in the best areas of the city.

Retrospectively Travelling to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris, previously dubbed Euro Disney, has been a mecca for many European families since it opened in the mid 90's. Disney had a well established reputation in Florida and California so it was with great anticipation that the new park should be announced to open in France. Albeit the park suffered some setbacks for the first few years, Disneyland Paris has now secured its future as one of the best tourist destinations in Europe.
The opening of the park was more exciting for us Brits, as Disney epitomised the Western culture by which we had a closer relationship with than our European neighbours. With the completion of the Channel Tunnel, getting to France was easier than ever, but that's not to say we weren't already very efficient at crossing that moat. With ferries and the golden age of the hovercraft, families could visit France for a long weekend and return the next day with a boot full of wine and cheese.
Now, I've crossed the Channel many times, growing up alongside my brother, set on another family trip around the French countryside. We travelled by various methods each time either by ferry, air or train, but the one method of travel which stuck in my mind the most was the hovercraft. Seeing that awesome feat of engineering speed across the water and mount the concrete right in front of the car was something to behold. The sound of the propellers and the size of the vessel were huge and I wish it were still around today.
In a way I felt like the hovercraft was superseded by the Catamaran. At the time this vessel was a futuristic, tri-bowed ferry which seemed like a sleeker and quieted alternative to the hovercraft, almost more civilised in its character. The SeaCat was a popular company to travel with and the awe struck me as a child just as the hovercraft did.
The procedure for boarding was the same; park up and wait to drive onto the vessel. The only thing which was different was how the catamaran opened its hull seamlessly from the front as if it was its own party piece. The ride was a lot more comfortable as well with an open deck, an arcade and a café to keep us entertained.
This was all part of the fun in getting to France and for a few times it was how we got to visit Disneyland Paris. Of course you can still go for this option with the countless ferries that cross the Channel every day and you will be able to relax on board before disembarking for the drive to the park. However, an element of that childlike awe has vanished with the disappearance of the hovercraft and, to a lesser extent, the catamaran.
Now the most popular method of transport is by train through the tunnel. As with all old leisurely vehicle's, new faster and sleeker innovations make them obsolete as people prefer to save time and money rather than treating the journey as part of the trip. I travelled on the tunnel as part of a trip with the school to Disneyland Paris and although there is not much to see and do, this is obscured by the fact that it is a very quick way to get there, practically dropping you off at the parks entrance.
In a way, we could look at the Channel Tunnel as being the saviour of Disneyland Paris whilst it rode those first few turbulent years after it opened. Would the huge number of visitors be willing to travel there if there wasn't this sort of transport? The Channel Tunnel was a monumental feat of engineering when it was conceived, but now it is almost a way of life, with people practically commuting to France for their short stays.

Richard Skidmore - Online Marketing Manager
Attractiontix.co.uk - AttractionTix is the UKs leading supplier of tickets to attractions and theme parks from around the world including Disneyland Paris tickets, Siam Park tickets, Loro Parque and PortAventura tickets.

Florida's Best Animal Hotspots

If your family is looking for a bit of adventure, then you need look no further. With Florida's abundance in wildlife there's guaranteed to be something for everyone. This article takes a look at some of the best wildlife attractions the area has to offer.
Brevard Zoo
It might not be the biggest or best known of Florida's attractions, but Brevard Zoo still offers the animal experience you'll never forget. The Zoo has now built ziplines in a number of their attractions for an added authentic jungle exploration. With a staggering 750 feet of moving logs and ziplines, the 'Treetop Trek Aerial Adventures' gives the opportunity for visitors (at their peril) to soar through trees, over water and marshland whilst getting little bit closer to natures greatest rarities.
BuschGardens
BuschGardens brings something completely different to Florida, the wonders of the African Safari. Take a breathtaking Serengheti Safari in the free roaming safari park, or explore the depths of the jungle; getting close to orangutans and many more. With it being home to nearly 3,000 animals, Busch gardens has become regarded as one of America's premier Zoological parks. This is an opportunity you really don't want to miss.
Seaworld
Seaworld is sure to be on every tourists mind when visiting Orlando. If the offer of world greatest aquatic giants such as killer whales doesn't draw you in, the chance to get up, close and personal with sharks, turtles, stingrays and of course dolphins might just twist your arm. The underwater shark walk is sure to give a bit of a fright. The tunnel spanning 60 feet cuts straight through the shark tank, with just a piece of glass separating you from these ocean predators.
Discovery Cove
Discovery Cove (the sister park to Seaworld), reverts to opposite parallel of marine life. The sea life sensation gives visitors the ultimate experience with some of our oceans most gracious creatures, in particular the bottlenose dolphin. Whether it's a 30 minute swim with bottlenose dolphins, swimming with stingrays or even participating in an underwater walk along the seafloor, Discovery Cove ensures to offer a break of peace and tranquility.
These are some of the most exciting and most well known places to visit, but this guide just scratches the surface. Why not come and explore the fantastic Florida wildlife experiences available. The only problem you might have is deciding where to visit next?

Attraction Tickets Direct offer a great range of Florida park tickets for all sorts of wildlife experiences, including the fantastic Discovery Cove Orlando.

Madison CT: Connecticut's Best Communities

Madison occupies a central location on Connecticut's scenic Long Island Sound shoreline in the southeastern corner of New Haven County. The combination of its beautiful oceanfront living, together with its close location to major metropolitan centers makes Madison one of Connecticut's best cities for your home and family.
First settled in 1641 and known throughout the 18th Century as East Guilford, it was named after President James Madison after it was incorporated as a town in 1826.
The heart of the town's historic district is The Madison Green which is bordered by immaculately maintained historic houses, some of which date back to more than 300 years. The Green is also a very popular location for summertime concerts, antique and art exhibits.
Madison's town center is the main business area and the location of the town library. The center has preserved its old village charm by keeping large franchise and chain stores out of the historic area.
The impressive natural setting of Madison provides plenty of outdoor fun. Summertime swimming, sunbathing and water sports are available at the private and public beaches, which includes Connecticut's largest state beach - Hammonasset Beach State Park. The park has picnic areas, campsites with a fishing pier which is extremely popular in the summer.
Surf Club Beach is the town's major public beach with lifeguards, recreational facilities for volleyball, baseball, softball, basketball and horseshoes. There are also playgrounds for children and picnic tables for families, as well as kayak racks and sailboat racks.
The City of Madison Parks and Recreation Department promote little league throughout the town with playgrounds, tennis courts and ball fields. Numerous private golf courses serve all of the player's needs.
Located in North Madison west of Route 79 is the Rockland Preserve which is an area of steep gray cliffs, rolling hills and lovely wooded areas. The centerpiece of Rockland Preserve is Coan Pond - which is a mixture of bog with black, damp soil and beautiful wildflowers as well as a pond with turtles, frogs and even beaver.
Madison's scenic coastal setting showcases some of Connecticut's finest oceanfront homes and summer cottages, as well as a collection of beautiful colonial and federal period homes. Also available are contemporary homes and inviting summer rentals.
Madison's school system provides a college preparatory program, as well as continuing education for adults and a specialized curriculum for disabled students. The town also offers private schooling.
The combination of its beautiful oceanfront living, together with its close location to major metropolitan centers makes Madison one of Connecticut's best cities for your home and family.

Steven Penny author of Hiring The Best People writes on the best places for your home and family in Connecticut. If you are looking for Madison CT Homes for Sale please visit http://www.Prudentialct.com

The Best Family Attractions in Cyprus

Cyprus is renowned for its hot weather, rich cultural background and diverse range of activities, making it the perfect place for a family-friendly holiday.
There is plenty to keep both adults and children occupied, including excellent beaches, a variety of sightseeing opportunities and many water parks and restaurants.
A trip to Cyprus would not be complete without spending a lot of time down by the beach topping up your tan - and the island does not disappoint in this area, with numerous sandy stretches of shoreline overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Coral Bay Beach is particularly popular, having obtained a Blue Flag certification in terms of quality, safety and conservation efforts.
Close to Coral Bay is perhaps Cyprus' most well-known seaside spot, Aphrodite's Beach.
Greek myth suggests that this is where the goddess of love rose from the foamy waters close to a stone named Aphrodite's Rock.
Whether you believe the legend or not, this is a fabulous place to sit by the shore and soak up the sun's rays while enjoying the stunning scenery, including the waves crashing against the large white rocks that stick out from the sea.
For an educational day trip, a visit to the Cyprus Museum is a great way of learning more about the island, with the institution boasting one of the best collections of archaeological finds in the region.
This includes three limestone lions and two sphinxes with distinct Egyptian features that were uncovered in the Tamassos necropolis.
Tourists can also see the statues of Emperor Septimus Severus and the famed Aphrodite of Soli, which is often used on promotional tourism posters for Cyprus.
One of the most impressive exhibits is a display of terracotta figures found in 1929, which depict a number of warriors and chariots, with references to fertility and the underworld.
For a more action-packed day out that will no doubt keep the children happy, try visiting one of Cyprus' amazing water parks.
The largest on the island is Fasouri Watermania, with the attraction boasting a massive selection of fun-filled rides and water-based activities.
Try out Europe's biggest wave pool or have a go on the Kamikaze Slide, paddle boats or the long lazy river ride, all of which will occupy the kids through the morning and afternoon.
If you are feeling hungry, Fasouri Watermania has a number of options, including Pirates' Cove Restaurant, with diners able to select from a menu of pizzas, burgers and gourmet cold sandwiches.
However, if you are looking for a place to eat out in the evening, there are several high-quality venues to explore in Cyprus.
St Georges Tavern in Paphos is excellent if you like fresh, organic food, with all dishes made from ingredients grown specifically in the owner's allotment and grounds.
You can enjoy the fruits of a large herb garden, wine produced from locally-sourced grapes and dishes prepared using a meat-smoking cabin, making this one eating experience you will remember for a long time.
The menu consists of a selection of authentic meals, including kleftico - oven-baked lamb - and a fantastic meze, which is a collection of small dishes served as a starter.
Paphos is also where the Windmill Restaurant is located, with this popular family-owned business being a favourite among tourists and locals alike.
With great hospitality, a wide choice of traditional Greek fare and a homely setting, it is a must for families hoping to enjoy an evening out.

Looking for Cyprus villa offers for your next family break? Visit Premier Holidays and take advantage of our wide range of villa holiday rentals in the country, including Cyprus private villas.

La Geria - Lanzarote's Wine-Growing Region

La Geria in Lanzarote is one of the island's most intriguing tourist attractions, with the unique agricultural landscape being used to grow wine.
When thinking about vineyards, most people will conjure up images of luscious fields and colourful foliage; however, the vineyards of La Geria utilise a cultivating technique that is used solely in Lanzarote.
During the 1730s, around one-third of the island was covered in ash following a series of volcanic eruptions that also destroyed most of the crops at the time, such as cereal.
This meant the farmers who stayed in Lanzarote instead of choosing to emigrate to America had to come up with a way of growing produce in the ash that was present on a large portion of the land.
Fortunately, this ashy substance had a number of features that enabled the workers to formulate a process for making wine that proved very successful.
The granules of volcanic rock, called picon, could be used as a porous mulch as it was able to absorb moisture from the surrounding air and distribute it in the ground.
This not only prevented evaporation, but also overcame a problem farmers in the region had suffered over the years with all crops - a lack of rainfall.
Known as 'enarenado', this form of dry cultivation is used solely in Lanzarote, making the landscape a fascinating stop on any tour of the island.
In order to protect the vines from strong winds, each one is planted individually, with a small semi-circular wall named a zoco built around them.
These walls are made from volcanic stone, forming an added layer of defence against adverse weather conditions.
Each vine is also planted at a depth of 1 to 1.5 metres in order to ensure they are fully grounded when winds are high.
This spectacular agricultural landscape is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Lanzarote and provides some excellent photo opportunities.
Due to the nature of this viniculture, it is fairly labour intensive, with each vine needing to be planted manually, while each grape is handpicked come harvest season.
Around three-quarters of the crop in La Geria is Malvasia grape, resulting in a sweet wine that was once a favoured tipple of European aristocracy. Nowadays, the island is still famous for its dessert wines.
The remaining 25 per cent of the vineyards cultivate Diego, Muscatel and Pedro Ximenez grapes.
If you are keen to actually taste some of the local wines, there are a number of bodegas - small grocery stores - that line the main bumpy road in La Geria.
Here, you can find a vast selection of red, white and rose variants, enabling you to plan your own mini sampling tour fairly easily.
Those keen to learn more about the history of wine-making in Lanzarote should visit the Canary Islands' oldest bodega, the El Grifo winery in Masdache.
Founded in 1775, it has a wine museum that extensively details the island's long tradition in vineyards and agricultural pursuits.
Tourists can view authentic old presses, alembics, laboratory instruments, bottling tools, pumps and filters, as well as other farming equipment used during the production process.
Looking for wine to take home with you? There is also a sales room in the museum where you can find a large choice of some of Lanzarote's best wines.

Villa holidays in Lanzarote are perfect for sampling the local wines - visit Premier Holidays today to choose from a wide range of holiday rental villas, including a variety of properties available through late offers.

Near Disasters - Traveling in Thailand

On my travels in Thailand, there have been times of near misses, dangerous near misses sometimes.
It started in Bangkok after a long time of getting lost in Chinatown and walking to the Indian area to buy fabric, while crippled with blisters and near fainting in the heat. By the time I reached the river to catch the boat back to my starting point, I was over it.
I bought my ticket for the boat and made my way towards the jetty, when suddenly people started shouting at me to hurry because it was about to leave. So I ran down the gangway and was about to step into the boat, when it started moving away. A man shouted "jump"- I jumped alright, straight into his arms, and the momentum nearly took us both hurtling out over the other side into the filthy sludge of a river.
Moral of the story: don't wear rubber thongs when jumping onto boats and don't run and jump when people tell you to.
Ko Mak threatened to crack my head open by way of coconuts. The deadly thud heard just as I had walked underneath an offending tree, was eerily frequent.
Moral of the story: wear a hard hat on tropical islands.
In Trat things were going well until I had a massage with a lady who had muscles of steel. My skin was recovering from insect bite attack, but after the session with iron woman, I was bruised and sore in several places. I didn't really think that was the idea of the massage!
Moral of the story: don't mess with ladies who have muscles of steel.
The tuk-tuk mafia met me at the bus stop in Sukathai and I managed to flick off all but one. This nasty little man persisted, and resorted to poking me on the arm and standing way too close. Well, that was his undoing, because, he may not have spoken much English, but he got the gist of my words pretty quickly. The problem was, he seemed to be the organizer of that band of desperados, and the others had melted away after his shenadigans. I was left without transport into town as no-one else would take me because they couldn't let him lose face, and eventually I was cajoled by another driver to go with the tormentor. On reaching my guest house he was reluctantly paid and the girl at reception was taking me to the accommodation, when he shouted at her for some commission because he had delivered me there! She did the quiet Thai thing of ignoring him; I did the loud Australian thing of telling him to piss off.
Moral of the story: do the quiet Thai thing if possible.
After hiring a pushbike to explore the incredible Sukathai World Heritage site, I meandered around the paths throughout the park. In the early morning it was peaceful and cool and I was lulled into carelessness. Going off road, so to speak, was my down fall. As I rounded a tight corner on a dirt track, the bike slipped from under me and I fell onto my side. Humiliation soon saw me jump up quickly and I glanced around for any witnesses. The park was near empty and I climbed back onto my twisted bike and headed back to the proper road. Then my knee and hip hurt and I noticed some grazing. It wasn't until that night that the bruises came out, and I would have to say they were substantial. Now they are fading to a violent puce yellow color.
Moral of the story: don't hire clunker bikes and watch what's around the corner!
Watching the Mekong flow (or rush) by reminds me of a time in Laos, when a German bloke, an Australian bloke and I tried to canoe across a river flowing just as fast as the Mekong is presently. We got about half way in the strong current, when the German spat the dummy and insisted we return to the jetty. We two Aussies thought he was wimp, so we decided to go by ourselves. The current swirled us in circles and we were pretty hopeless. Unfortunately, we started to go faster and as someone watched from the high cliff, I shouted at him to throw down our passports- I reckoned our next stop was Cambodia! Somehow we banged into the bottom of the cliff way down river, and then had to pull on trees and bamboo with our hands and use our paddles to push off the bottom of the river in order to creep back to the jetty. It wasn't easy. Another Australian with a worried look on his face, met us at the jetty, and said he was ashamed to call us Australians after out pathetic effort!
Moral of the story: don't go canoeing with wimpy Germans and hopeless Australians.
All this leads me to my next boat trip in the coming days on the Mekong and hopefully it will not be a near miss. This time it would be all over rover, as the river is flowing very quickly and full of debris- there would be no chance of surviving if tipped into it.

Sue Gibbins
Long time traveler in the Far East. For more traveling information goes to One-Travel
Travel-Agents-Ireland

How To Use A Taxi Service When You Are Abroad

Traveling abroad, whether for a short business trip or on holiday, often involves the use of local taxi services. Although in most cases taxi drivers are people who honestly do their job, there are some situations where the problem occurs. In this article we will try to give some tips how to conduct yourself when using a taxi abroad.
Although you may be experienced with a taxi service in your country, it is certain that you feel a bit differently when you do it in the foreign country. Your first encounter with a new environment is often made via taxi driver. This meeting may determine the first impression of staying in a country. Here we particularly underline that first meeting, because it usually takes place in a situation where you are "vulnerable" - tired, just emerging from the airport, loaded with luggage etc. Cultural and linguistic diversity, and ignorance of the terrain, creates uncertainty for passengers which feel that taxi drivers view them as potential victims. In the vast majority of cases, of course, it is not so, but it won't hurt to prepare yourself a bit in advance.
Before traveling (while your are still at home), check the Internet for usual prices of taxi services in the city in which you travel. Of course, you need not go into details but it is enough to gain some picture of the amount that you will pay. Since maps for many worldwide cities are now available on the Web, estimate the distance to the hotel from the airport (if you're traveling by the plane). Familiarize yourself with names of some taxi companies in the city (search for city name including name of the service, for example. "Belgrade Taxi") and try to remember some names, or at least logos and colors. Keep in mind that company that takes seriously its presence on the Web, probably also performs its services correctly.
When you come into a situation that you are looking for a taxi, you will most likely be with hands full of luggage, while taxi drivers will approach you, offering transportation. Do not rush with a choice. Look around and get in touch with the taxi driver whose appearance and vehicle gives the biggest confidence to you. Salute the man, and ask for the price of driving. You may agree to drive for a fixed price, or a metered one, but be sure to obtain information about the expected price and compare it with previous estimations you got from your research. Don't forget to specify the currency in which you will pay.
Driving for a fixed price is more expensive than driving on the meter, but most frequently ensures that your taxi driver uses the shortest route to your destination. Make the agreements and about any other costs (luggage fee, tolls, etc.) in advance. Do not give up of the agreed price later. Here is where the language barrier may play a role, so if you can not communicate otherwise - use a pen and paper or even- fingers.
As for the security during the ride, the rules are fairly standard for all parts of the world. Store the large luggage in the trunk of the vehicle, and keep smaller bags (with documents and valuables) with you. It would be useful to prepare money for the ride ahead and put it in your pocket in order to avoid having to subsequently search for the wallet. Prepare a small change too, since taxi drivers seem never to have it. Taxi drivers prefer you to sit in the back seat, so respect it (except, of course, if you have more). Remember the name of taxi driver and vehicle number- just in case. If you get in a conversation, stick to light themes - discussion of politics has no place in a cab.
Like we said, the vast majority of cabbies are correct people, and tips shown above should just help you to protect yourself from dishonorable minority, which, after all, exists in all areas of life, in all parts of the world.

Author is a provider of taxi services and an ex-journalist, living and working in Belgrade, Serbia. His company's taxi services focus on Belgrade Airport transfers, Mini van and Mini bus services and all kinds of private transfers and tours.

Top 5 Clubs In Barcelona

Of course, in order to do this, you are going to need to make sure that you are doing a little research ahead of time, before you leave for your trip, in order to put together a game plan for where you are going.
BeCool
You might think that all of the great clubs will always be found in the stretch where they all seem to thrive together, such as on a main strip. The thing is though, the club BeCool is tucked away from the large night scene and because of this, is generally only known by the locals. However, this doesn't mean that as a visitor you shouldn't check it out. With a revolving dance floor along with the impressive line up of DJs is sure to make your night out a night to remember.
La Macarena
The La Macarena is an underground club with all of the best sounds of the night. Even though La Macarena is a smaller club compared to others, the atmosphere is what keeps bringing people back. There is a ton of techno and bass pumping all through the club to keep everyone in the crowd very happy.
Moog
Then there is the club called Moog. Some might say that "small" wouldn't be the right word to describe it but many of the locals, and even those visiting from all around the world, know why this tiny little club has such a big reputation. With swathes of wood and also spots of iron, there is a gracefulness about this club that simply captivates the crowd. The sunken dance floor and an upstairs mirrored room aims to please.
Row 14
The party starts at Row 14 bright and early at 6:30am and it starts the party off right by blasting the sound system to its maximum ability. There is a separate bar, huge amounts of indoor space, a retractable roof and two terraces. Stop by Row 14 on a Sunday morning and you will be greeted with a large array of techno options such as Marco Carola and Richie Hawton.
City Hall
The club, City Hall, is situated right in the former town theatre, all while maintaining and preserving the beauty of the original structure. The DJ overlooks the dance floor from what used to be that of the stalls. There are disco balls and even a chandelier. Some might say that musically speaking, City Hall has lost some of its luster, but many more would disagree.
As you can see, there are plenty of great options out there when it comes to your choice of clubs in Barcelona. Make sure that you are setting aside a little bit of time to check a few of them out.

I truly recommend Holiday apartments for city breaks and short stay visits. Renting apartments in Barcelona its a great alternative to hotels when you are travelling with your family or a group of friends. apartment rental Barcelona

Find The Very Best Vacation Deals

Getting good vacation deals is way easier than you ever thought possible. For those lucky enough to be able to afford a holiday, the market is heavily skewed in favor of travellers thanks to the recession and current economic woes across the world. Those willing to take a gamble and wait with their holiday dealers until as near as possible to their desired departure date can capitalize even more on last minute vacation deals which see them jetting off for fun in the sun at an incredible price.
There are two schools of thought when it comes to getting affordable, fantastic holidays: get in early to take advantage of early bird offers, or leave it to the last minute to snap up unwanted seats and hotel beds. Getting the very best deals can be done either way with similarly effective results.
Travel companies know that they will sell at least a certain amount of seats on planes and will fill a certain number of rooms in hotels. Barring natural disasters, they can be sure of that fact. There is a specific base limit below which they're almost certain never to fall.
However they need to make sure that the ball gets rolling early and well when it comes to selling vacation packages, and so they price competitively when first opening up deals, allowing those customers who can commit a deposit early to snap up a super cheap vacation to some of the most exotic destinations. Traditionally, that has been the main source of good value holiday deals for tourists.
Recently, though, the tables have turned. With the catastrophic failure of the economy in 2009 came a severe loss of confidence in money as a whole and a reticence to spend cash on fripperies like vacations. Seats that tour operators once thought were dead certainties to sell out suddenly found themselves unpopular and with many spaces to fill.
Last minute bargains entered the travel industry, and have reshaped it beyond all belief. Today, it is often better to try and hold on until the very final moments before committing to the holiday you want to have to ensure the best bargain.
As travel companies panic that they will be left with empty rooms, they try their best to claw back any form of profit, no matter how small, drastically discounting their offerings to a tiny percentage of their actual market worth, leaving travellers with the opportunity to get a cut price, bona fide bargain on their getaways.
Vacation deals have become obscene as these companies try to fill spaces on tours, including trips to far away places. Cuba vacations, for example, have seen some of the most drastic price cuts as travel agents panic at the concept of having hotels empty in the busy summer periods. Five star holidays can be had for two or three star prices by the savvy traveller willing to bide their time. It is most definitely a buyers market out there, so get thinking where you want to go next.

Browse a great selection of cheap vacations, and take the break that you have been waiting for.

Egypt Vacation Packages Offer Great Variety

There is a lot more to Egypt vacation packages than sand and pyramids. The Arab Republic of Egypt is located in North Africa. It has coastline on two seas, the Mediterranean and the Red Sea. The Sinai Peninsula offers miles and miles of quiet shoreline. The Gulf of Suez on the western side and the Gulf of Aqba to the east make the country an ideal holiday spot for honeymooners, families and seniors alike.
There is so much to see and do. Make friends with the locals and visit a Bedouin tent. Learn how to make unleavened bread in the morning and the art of weaving rugs on a loom in the afternoon. Dance with the natives late into the evening and peer at the night sky through a telescope with the aid of your very own star guide.
Cruise down the Nile River on a small yacht and laze in the sunshine enjoying delicious food. Talk your captain into letting you take the helm or hop in the water for a quick swim and snorkel. Back on shore, a camel ride is a definite must.
If you can tear yourself away from the seaside, take a tour to the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and the only one of them to remain mostly in one piece. It took twenty years to construct and was completed around the year 2560 BC. It is thought to be the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu of the Fourth Dynasty. Also in Giza is the Great Sphynx, a statue of a mythical creature with the body of a lion and the head of a man. It stands more than 66 feet high, 20 feet wide and nearly 250 feet long.
If ancient wonders are really your thing, save some time for the Lighthouse of Alexandria. The lighthouse was actually built on the island of Pharos in the year 280 BC. It was commissioned by King Ptolemy Soter, who succeeded Alexander the Great, who perished of a fever at the age of 32. Of course, you might also want to set aside some time to visit the Great Sphynx.
You may want to enjoy your regular hobby in a different setting. Egypt offers golf, fishing, horseback riding and many other activities. Choose a themed holiday built around something that interests you. Archaeology, walking, art and even Christmas are possibilities.
A fully inclusive holiday package might include all flights, including internal flights, airport taxes and other associated fees. It will also include your travel insurance, accommodation and possibly some meals. You can arrange to prepay for any tours (Nile cruise, Pyramids, Lighthouse, etc.). Also, if you sort out porterage of luggage at your hotel, this can save you fiddling with foreign currency and trying to figure out how much to tip.
Many inclusive Egypt vacation packages include the services of a company representative to assist with check-in at the airport. It is useful if your tour company has an office nearby your accommodation to provide assistance with any problems that crop up, especially if you are unfamiliar with the local language.

Punta Cana Resorts and Caribbean Vacation

Punta Cana is part of the eastern province of La Altagracia in the Dominican Republic. With an estimated 100,000,00 population and more than 60 miles of beautiful coastline, it has become one of the best and most popular resort destinations in the Caribbean.
Almost all resorts here are all inclusive resorts, most of them are family friendly and their main focus is to entertain their guests. When booking your Punta Cana vacation, accommodations and Punta Cana Resorts play a major role here.
There are many All-Inclusive Resorts, Adults Only, Spa, Casino, Family, Luxury, Golf and Honeymoon Resorts in Punta Cana. If you want to learn how to play pocker, enjoy some privat time without any children around, have a family or honeymoon getaway, you've come to the right place.
From budget to luxury, Punta Cana offers a lot of outstanding accommodations at prices everyone will appreciate. It has become a popular vacation trend among tourists. Punta Cana All Inclusive Resorts are known for their services, amenities, entertainment, dining options, they also offer many activities for all ages like exercise classes, karaoke contest, playing tennis,kids club and much more.... these activities are included in the price. All-Inclusive includes all three main meals and snacks between, drinks, even some alcoholic drinks. With so many options it's hard to tell which resort is the best. And if you are willing to explore around, book and purchase an excursion at your resort, rent a car and discover wonderful places you don't want to miss! Resorts are within walking distance of the beach.
Thirty miles of sparkling white sand and coconut trees, no wonder Punta Cana beaches are known to be as one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean and in the world. With clear, warm turquoise waters and beautiful weather throughout the year, this tropical Caribbean Island is a real paradise for many tourists and local people.
All Punta Cana beaches offer many water sports. Whether you like kayaking, parasailing, glass-bottom boat rides,banana rides, water skiing...or if you are willing to try scuba diving or snorkeling, which are the most popular activities among tourists, these beaches are the right place for you.
The largest place with more than 100 resorts and hotels is Bavaro, starting from Cabeza de Toro until Macao Beach.
Believe me, you'll simply never get bored here!
So let's go... and don't forget to put sunscreen on because sun here is very strong but it's true, winds do make the hottest days more bearable.

Spanish Immersion in Buenos Aires: Day Trip to Tigre

When you decide to attend a Spanish immersion course in Buenos Aires, it makes sense to take a variety of day trips to explore the region. There is no doubt that will be spending a lot of time in class and this is one of the reasons that you planned your trip. However, when you study Spanish in Argentina, there is a lot to see and do beyond the books.
You will find that Buenos Aires offers a seemingly endless list of activities. Clearly, you could spend months in the city and not see everything. Yet, it is also important to see some of the sites outside of Buenos Aires. In fact, it will help your studies to get out and relax a little. Don't miss exploring the beautiful and serene bucolic settings that the country offers.
One exciting trip that you can take when you study Spanish in Argentina is to visit the river El Tigre, which is actually quite near Buenos Aires. Simply proceed to the Retiro train station. You will find that this destination is just about a 30 minute ride by train from the city. Feel free to also consider the train ride to be part of your sightseeing excursion, as you will see a variety of different homes and architecture along the way.
The "Tigre" delta is named for the jaguar. This area has a variety of islands, inlets and water channels. But El Tigre is more than just a river. The town itself is a lot of fun with activities including kayaking, boat rides and an amusement park. There are also outdoor markets where you can buy a variety of interesting wares. You can purchase everything from food to clothing to household appliances for very decent prices. This is a good place to buy gifts for your loved ones back home.
If you decide to opt for a boat trip on El Tigre, keep in mind that it will take a good part of the day. There are both full days as well as overnight trips available. Also if you have a bit more money to spend, you can opt for a private boat tour. Most visitors find that they areas that they pass on this tour are extremely intriguing. For example, there are homes on stilts and so many residents need boats just to get around town. The people who live in the islands are called the "islenos."
You will find that as you travel north, the area becomes less populated. In this region, there are a variety of exclusive resorts. Madonna even traveled to a retreat in the Delta in 2008. There are gorgeous spas and private restaurants hidden amongst the islands.
Your Spanish immersion course in Buenos Aires has the opportunity to be one of the most memorable experiences in your lifetime. As a result, it is important to be proactive and make plans to see the surroundings. In fact, many students end up extending their stay in Argentina so that they can see more of what the country offers.

ECELA Buenos Aires provides Spanish immersion courses in Argentina year round. The standard course is 20 hours per week with many opportunities for activities and weekend excursions, including Tigre as well as crossing the Rio de la Plata to Uruguay, as you study Spanish in Buenos Aires.

Top Places for a Diving Trip in Wales

If you are planning an activity weekend in Wales, you may be considering the usual pursuits of walking, mountain biking and climbing - but have you thought about scuba diving?
Exploring beneath the waves is one of the most exciting and interesting pastimes out there, so if you are something of a water baby, you may want to start planning a trip to Wales and finding a school to learn with.
Who knows, if you really enjoy it you may discover that an increasing number of your UK holidays are focused on diving!
Before you rush off and book a course though, it is important to think about where you are going and when.
The waters around the UK can get quite cold during the winter, so it is advisable to carry out your training during the summer and autumn months. September is usually one of the warmest times of year in the sea, so a break just after the school holidays could be a good plan.
You may also want to enquire whether the centre you are doing your course with offers drysuits for hire. Wearing this kind of protective clothing, rather than a wetsuit, really can make a big difference to your enjoyment of the dives.
So, the next step to take is to decide where to go! With such long stretches of coastline, there are countless dive sites in Wales, but here is a guide to just a few of the top ones.
Starting in the north of the country, you could head to Anglesey. This small island is a great place for a weekend of scuba diving, with plenty of sites easily accessible by boat, as well as locations such as Trearddur Bay, which is ideal for a shore dive.
There are numerous wrecks around this part of the coast, many of which are in shallow enough water that novices can dive them without too much difficulty.
Meanwhile, Puffin Island might be a location on your list of places to visit, as the friendly seals that inhabit the area will often come and play with divers once they have got used to your presence underwater.
Heading slightly further south, you will reach the Llyn Peninsula where there are plenty more excellent diving opportunities.
While there are not many wrecks along this part of the coastline, there are lots of delightful scenic dives - and if you plan your visit for the end of the summer, so around August or September, you could catch sight of an elusive visitor.
Leatherback turtles migrate to the waters along the west coast of the UK - and particularly around Wales - to feed on a bloom of Rhysotoma jellyfish each year.
These giant marine reptiles are a spectacular sight and if you are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of one underwater, it is likely to be a memory you will cherish forever.
Continuing down the Welsh coastline, you come to Pembrokeshire, another popular spot among scuba divers.
In fact, this location could prove ideal for a multi activity weekend break, as the national park boasts lots of stunning vistas and secluded coves.
If you are hoping to get in some beach walks in the UK, this could be a good location to choose!
But you might find that the underwater spectacles here capture all your attention. If you dive around the Milford Sound region, you will find numerous wrecks just waiting to be discovered.
Meanwhile, the Skomer Marine Nature Reserve is a must for any wildlife lovers, as this conservation area is brimming with life, from crabs and lobsters to wrasse, blennies and nudibranchs.
Finally, you can go a little further south to the Gower Peninsula and the area around Swansea, where there are many good places for shore diving.
Beaches such as Limeslade Bay and Martin's Haven are relatively easy to access and you will be astounded by the wealth of creatures you find around the shoreline.
The latter is a particularly good location for spotting spider crabs and lobsters, while Limeslade Bay is home to many curious blennies that inhabit the cracks in the rocks.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into a break in Wales and discover a whole new world!

If you are looking for exciting UK holidays then come to Wales, where you can try a host of activities, including scuba diving. Heading underwater as part of an activity weekend is lots of fun - and if you want ideas for a multi activity weekend check out Visit Wales to find out about a range of other pursuits, including where to find some of the top beach walks in the UK.

Best Places to Eat Out in Bangkok

A trip to Bangkok would not be the same without exploring the city's wide range of excellent dining options.
Tourists can select from a number of restaurants for all budgets or simply wander Bangkok's streets tasting the wares to be found at various food stalls and from vendors who sell their fare from carts.
Those who prefer to sit down for a meal have a wealth of choice at their fingertips and a good place to start is in Bangkok's Chinatown. The area is always bustling with activity and you should be able to seek out some fabulous eateries while soaking up the fantastic atmosphere.
If you are looking to be a little bit adventurous, Scala Shark's Fin Restaurant has a number of local delicacies that you might not be able to buy at home. As its name would suggest, shark's fin dishes are included, as well as barbecued suckling pig. However, you can order more familiar meals, such as fried whole crab with black pepper.
A range of international food is also on offer, including at Himali Cha Cha, where you can find some of the best Indian cuisine in the region. One of the favourite items on the menu is the mutton chutniwalla, although tourists with a taste for spicy food are also said to favour the establishment's varieties of vindaloos.
For those who prefer something a bit more mild, the chicken Kashmiri - cooked with dried fruits, nuts and yoghurt - is recommended.
If you are looking for a special night out, there are a number of luxury restaurants in Bangkok that should make for a memorable experience.
High-end Thai food is available at Naj in the Bang Rak district, which has a sumptuous menu of authentic local specialties.
Stir-fried prawns in tamarind sauce and hot and sour soup, which is made from a blend of lemongrass broth, kaffir leaves, shallots and prawns, are both popular dishes.
Another favourite item on the menu is wing bean salad with minced pork and prawns.
Alternatively, there are several venues that provide western cuisine, should you be feeling a little homesick.
The Rib Room & Bar at the Landmark Bangkok hotel is one such restaurant, with an excellent selection of steaks and seafood. Signature dishes include sirloin Australian beef, sauteed sea scallops and foie gras terrine, making this high-end eatery a favourite with many tourists. The drinks menu is equally impressive, particularly the choice in cocktails, with many patrons selecting Martini cocktails to accompany their meals.
Italian food is on offer at the luxurious Mezzaluna, which has an exquisite selection of top-quality dishes to choose from. Beautifully marbled matsuzaka beef is popular, as is the carefully cooked veal, while the parmesan-laced eggshells filled with risotto are unforgettable. The food is just half of the fun though, with an intimate setting provided by soft lighting, stylish table settings and a fantastic view of Bangkok.
However, if you are just looking for a quick snack, you may instead wish to try one of the many food stalls dotted around the city.
Noodle carts are extremely common, offering a wide selection in noodle varieties and accompaniments. These include sen yai, sen mii, sen lak, bah mii and woon sen noodles, which come in all different shapes and sizes and are made from various types of flour. Once you have selected what noodles you want, you will be asked whether you want them 'haeng' or 'naam'. The former means they are left dry, while the latter means they come in a soup. Finish off your dish by choosing one of the many meats on display to add to your noodles, with most vendors charging approximately 20 baht to 50 baht. If you are not sure the portions will be enough for you, add another 5 baht or so and you can have your noodles 'pi sed' - with extra.
A quicker and more cost-effective option might be to choose one of the curry-on-rice stalls. Here you can simply point at the type of curry you want and it will be provided along with a portion of rice within seconds.
'Made to order' food stalls are available if you have more time on your hands, allowing you to ask for any dish you fancy and have it cooked in front of you.
Thai-style omelettes, stir-fried pork in garlic and pepper, and fried rice are all popular with tourists.

Sample the delicious food of Bangkok on your next holiday by booking Bangkok flights to Bangkok airport with Netflights.

Discovering Budapest on Holidays by Train

For those who enjoy luxury travel and a sense of the old-school, holidays by train are the perfect way to see Europe. The slower pace lets you take in more, and trains have a wonderful charm of their own - a fact that Budapest appears to embrace. While the city's attractions are too numerous to describe, here are some that will appeal directly to train lovers.
Hungarian Railway Museum
For those who were brought into Budapest on their holidays by train, checking out the rail transport of bygone eras is a fun way to feel connected to those travellers who came before, rolling into the city behind great puffing steam engines. This outdoor museum has an impressive array of locomotives. If you're travelling with children, this is a museum with plenty of child appeal - let them ride the child-sized train through the gardens, operate the model railway or have a go in the engine simulator. Adults can try driving a steam engine, and there are plenty of other curious methods of transport to try, including the Tchaika car - a car adapted to run on railway lines, once used by maintenance workers to check the lines and reach any faults quickly.
Nostalgia Café
If it's railway nostalgia you're after, you've come to the right city. Hungary's rail heritage organisation is the aptly-named MÁV Nosztalgia Ltd. This company runs the Railway Museum and this café, adjacent to the museum itself. With a terrace overlooking the museum's beautifully landscaped gardens, this is the perfect spot to relax after a day exploring to enjoy some old-style railway-style charm, daydreaming of holidays by train in times gone by.
Station to Station
Taking holidays by train gives travellers a new perspective on Europe's grandest rail stations. These are often noted in guidebooks for their architecture, and photographed from the outside by passing tourists, but for the train traveller they have special significance: they are portals, welcoming you to and leading you out into each new place. The character of a station can give you clues to the character of the city; they are also your portals for departure, the place where you bid a city farewell. Budapest's Nyugati Station, with its 1870s high arches and glass façade, offers an elegant greeting to new arrivals. It is also a pleasant place to spend time, and was recently used as a filming location for the new adaptation of John LeCarre's Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy. Two locomotives were borrowed from the Railway Museum for the scenes shot there, so if you do visit the museum remember that some of the trains you're looking at have found stardom on the big screen!

Anna Copeland is the Marketing Manager for The Danube Express, which specialises in holidays by train. The Danube Express has a range of exclusive train holidays to Europe, travelling across countries like Poland, Hungary and Turkey

Summer Camps With Positive Spirit

Holiday time is nearing and kids will be really interested in taking up many different activities other than the usual routine they are carrying on the regular basis. There are many activities that are organized by the people with the passage of time and you might be really surprised to see the response from the people as huge number of them are taking up the summer camps with positive spirit.
You will be able to get a very good experience in the taking part in the camps as you will get an insight on the type of activities you will have to carry on while dealing with the actual life with the passage of time. Also you are given the opportunity to develop various skills in the form of trekking or swimming or any other activity and these skills will definitely help you at some point of time in your life in the most perfect manner without facing any issues.
There are many organizations moving on with the summer camps and you should be very careful while selecting the camp as it should definitely remain within your interest to make the most effective usage of time without any issues. You will be getting the golden opportunity to mingle with many people in the camp as you might be staying as a single family for long time until the camp ends. In fact there would be people of different age groups with the time and considering these facts you should try your level best in moving on with the best company as per your taste in order to make out the most beautiful days out of it which you should cherish forever.
In fact you will be able to enjoy the most with the summer camps in the most effective manner wherein you will be really tempted to go for the camps even in the future without fail.In fact you will definitely turn out to a totally different person when you return to your house after enjoying your camp wherein majority of them will be really smart in carrying out different activities. It is true that parents will be really surprised to see the great transformation in you in a positive manner without having any concerns. You will be able to learn many new things in the best manner without facing any concern with the passage of time in the most effective manner.

If you are looking for a summer camp in Canada, Ontario or Toronto? An experience you will remember for the rest of your life, then Kandalore is the place for you. For more details on Toronto camp please visit our website.