Australia Rough And Tough History

Aussies are famous for the laid back attitude and their fun loving spirits however, did you ever think about why it is that they have this type of reputation? Well, honestly you may very well uncover that the roots of this spirit lie deep with in the history of the region its self.

Certainly, it seems that when you think of Australia, from any other country across the world you think about the regions of Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, which are in fact the three biggest cities in the country. Looking at a map, however, the capital of Australia is situated somewhere in between Sydney and Melbourne due to the fact that both wanted to be the capital city yet it was determined that neither was suitable, in the eyes of the government, simply because both cities had an association with the criminal population.

As a matter of fact, even though Sydney was Australia's very first and largest city it was also often known as Sin City on account of its associations with convicts and since Melbourne was established by a son of a criminal neither was take into consideration as an option for the capital of Australia. Canberra was agreed upon on account of its convict free reputation as well as for its location in the middle of these two much larger cities.

The island state of Tasmania is not bettering the reputation of Australia as it is known as the world's biggest supplier of opium associated goods. The government maintains intense control over the processing and harvesting of opiates and because this is an island state, it is kept away from the general population.

Of course, it is easy to see how the majority of this region has received a reputation for their partying and relaxed way of life. Beaches, alcohol, drugs and convicts make for a very free lifestyle, although these are just a few fun and fascinating things to learn about the region. It is in actuality the perfect vacation destination if you are searching for a great time and if you feel badly about the adverse influences in this region you can always pay a visit to Adelaide, which is a much more family oriented city. This city has never accepted convicts and is well known for its elaborate churches, so you can always stop in and say a prayer if you feel the need for balance on your Aussie vacation. Although, enjoying the beach, the sun and the fun does not mean that you need to join in anything illegal or against your morals.

About the Author

Whether you're searching for accommodation sydney cbd, what to do or spots to visit, you will find it all by logging onto www.sydneyinformationcentre.com.au. You can book most sydney accommodation here, making finding a suitable place easy as 1,2,3!

Night Life in Downtown Singapore

It is ten o'clock at night. Time for bed? Not here in downtown Singapore where the night is still young and the fun has just begun! Night life in Singapore is ever-vibrant as crowds are drawn towards sophisticated clubs and swing bars. As a haven of luxurious shopping and dining, these establishments also stay open for longer hours happily serving the owl in you.

Bar culture

Those who need a stiff one after hours to unwind will love the bar culture in Central Business District of Singapore. Most expatriates working in Raffles Place and City Hall patronize their favorite bars at the end of the day for a beautiful cocktail and friendly chit-chat with friends. Mandarin Hotel is a popular hangout; it is luxurious yet utterly relaxing as it overlooks the beautiful night scene of Orchard Road. This fancy joints serves up cocktail classics with a spin - lychee martini in Japanese teapot, anyone? Sit back and take in the atmosphere as the jazz performers croon the night away.

Club culture

Dance the night away while world-renowned DJs spin out their magic at downtown Singapore! We have a lot of luxurious clubs worthy of international standards, such as Zouk where club, lounge and bar come together under one roof. You could party to trance and house music in Zouk the club, listen to funk while admiring their genuine Warhols in Velvet Underground or just sip expensive cocktails in their Wine Bar. Bouncers stand guard on themed nights to ensure only the well dressed and wealthy looking gets in. Oh well, it's play time for the rich and elite.

Supper culture

Tired and hungry after a night of dancing? Fret not because supper culture is very prominent in Singapore and you can never go hungry even after midnight. Carousel at Royal Plaza offers scrumptious supper buffet from 11pm to 3am and attracts nocturnes in town who crave for dim sum and nasi lemak. As the hallmark of luxurious buffets, this posh restaurant prepares exquisite 5-star cuisine and service is impeccable. Priced steeply, supper buffets like this one is not normal fare for the common folk.

Safety

Staying out late in downtown Singapore is safe and convenient. Our dependable law enforcement makes us one of the safest cities to live in the world. As such, crime levels are minimal and most expatriates feel assured even when they are out partying at 4 o'clock in the morning. Apart from that, late night taxis are wide available especially in downtown Singapore so you could reach home safely after a night of luxurious fun.

Night life in Singapore is luxurious, unwinding yet absolutely safe! To know more about clubs and bars in downtown Singapore, please contact us!

Keith is a highly experience and motivated real estate agent in Singapore. His analytical nature and a sharp sense of market trend in the Singapore prime districts have consistently help his clients profit from their Singapore prime investments.

To find out more about the available investment opportunities in Singapore property investment, drop Keith an enquiry and he will be glad to assist you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Keith_K._M_Lau

The Mayan Palace Acapulco is the Sumptuous Slice of Golfing Paradise

The Mayan Palace Acapulco is an oasis of utter relaxation where getting pampered is not an option and where most everything fun that may cross your mind are well catered to. The Mayan Palace not only boasts of superb service and amenities, but these indulgences also come enveloped with the tropical cool that nature brings with its verdant gardens of exotic blooms, azure seas that meet with crisp skies, and sparkling water lapping at the sun-kissed sandy beaches.

Golf is among the most popular activities that guests enjoy at the Mayan Palace. The resort's Golf Course, conveniently nestled at a lush area just ten minutes away from the airport, is considered to be among the most impressive courses on the sunny Mexican Pacific. The very sight alone of the Mayan Palace golf course is sure to make you think of paradise with its generous offerings of swaying palms, tree-lined fairways, powdery white sands and lovely lakes.

The golf course of the Mayan Palace Acapulco has been magnificently designed by architect Pedro Guereca to delight not only the pros but beginners as well. The 6156 yard extent of the 18-hole par 72 championship tee features well-manicured Bermuda fairways, and beautiful but challenging greens covered with Tifdwarf grass strategically dotted with dunes, water holes and bunkers. And just as gorgeous in layout with less of the hazards are the Regular and Ladies Tee.

At the Mayan Palace Acapulco, you are ready to enjoy some hours of golfing under the glorious sun just by getting into a proper golf attire. For guests who have not brought with them gears, you can browse through the well-equipped pro shop and enjoy great finds. Another handy and readily available option are the spike and club rental shops that lets you play like a pro without troubling you with the bulk of the gears throughout your vacation.

Not only is the course of the Mayan Palace Acapulco designed to be friendly for golfers of all skill levels, it also offers various amenities that can be enjoyed by both golfers and enthusiasts content at just watching the games. For starters, you can avail of the golf lessons conducted by qualified golf trainers. The course also includes services such as the Club House, friendly caddies, driving range, and golf carts. The onsite restaurant/ bar serve sumptuous meals and refreshing beverages to fill your appetite. And what better way to end the golfing day at the Mayan Palace Acapulco than having some drinks at the bar that superbly goes with the ambiance.

Aweng Moral-Basco is a freelance writer. For more of her articles, visit:

bizarre-by-aweng.blogspot.com/

aweng-writes.blogspot.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Aweng_Moral-Basco

The Hotspots for Whale Watching Tours?

Whale watching tours offer glimpses of the largest mammals to inhabit the Earth. Whether it's a humpback's tail or a fin slapping on the surface of the water, a gray's big solemn eye gazing up at you or an orca breaching out of the water like an acrobat, you won't soon forget your first encounter with a whale.

A whale-watching cruise can depart from nearly any ocean in the world, but there are some places that are better than others. You also have to know when the "whale watching season" begins and ends in certain regions, as whales are largely migratory opportunists. In this article, you will learn more about how to plan the best whale watching excursion.

Visit Iceland, Britain, Norway or the Arctic Circle to take whale watching tours based out of Europe. Grays, humpbacks, orcas and minkes are the most common varieties found regionally, but you will also see puffins, harbor porpoises, white-beaked dolphins, Arctic terns and giant fish as well. Hvalalf based out of Reykjavik, Iceland is one of the more popular operators of whale watching cruises in European waters, with a 100-person restaurant boat renowned for its fresh-grilled cod.

Hawaii is the most popular playground for more than 6,000 humpbacks from November through May, so check out operators like the Pacific Whale Foundation, Aloha Hawaii Vacations or Hawaiian Discount for more cruise information.

The Eastern United States is world-renowned for their whale watching tours off the coast of Massachusetts, New York, Maine, Rhode Island and New Jersey. Here you can see humpbacks, blues, rights, seis, grays, minkes and pilot whales.

Keep in mind that the tour operator you choose should be a member of the Whale Watch Operators Association Northwest (WWOANW), which means the company adheres to the guidelines mandated by the whale watching industry.

About the Author

Whale watching cruises offer travelers the opportunity to observe whales in their natural environment. Click here to discover some of the best places to go on a whale watch cruise.

10 Precautionary Points For Your Next Getaway

Traveling is bound to be exciting and the liberating feeling it brings is invaluable, particularly if the destination that you choose is far away from your comfort zone. Then again, there are times you forget that there are sudden problems that might occur in the course of your holiday. It is a dismal thing that tourists who get captivated with the beauty of a foreign land draw in people who take advantage of their lack of knowledge in a country.

Vacationers, especially foreigners, are the frequent victims of pick-pocketing and big-time scams in the streets. Although they are widespread, these troubles can easily be prevented with proper education and preparedness in case such scenarios arise.

Let us try to look at some practical and sensible things you can do, or not do, to keep yourself from falling victim to these perpetuators.

DON'T TALK TO STRANGERS: When we were young, our parents and guardians taught us not to talk to strangers. Would you imagine it's still useful until we get old? Yes, giving personal information to strangers is not advisable when travelling, especially to a different country. Some scammers would get to know you in the streets, acting like really neighborhood-friendly folks, and in due course they will get all your personal information and steal your identity. To keep it safe, if you want to get to know local folk, you should only present your first name/ nickname and the state where you live in (For example. John from Florida); in this manner, you don't sound too chilly, but nor did you give too much information to the person.

Maintain A LOW PROFILE: Try to mix in with the crowd and don't show them that you're a first-time tourist in their land. Most criminals can spot fast a fat target in a large ocean so be careful. Try to research before you leave your place on the lifestyle of the location. It's wise not to bring expensive jewelry that will only get the lustful eyes of the perpetuators. Take only enough money when going around the town and be dressed in appropriate clothes okay by the locals.

Maintain A WATCHFUL EYE: The best sights and destinations might be seen in third world countries, yet these places also suffer numerous cases of theft and fraud due to the never-ending issue of poverty. Some scams would include kids begging in the streets, and while you're busy finding cash to give to poor-hearted beggars, others will immediately take your bag. To prevent this, keep a watchful eye while in town and engage only in limited talks with strangers.

Keep YOUR KIDS ON THE LOOP: If you plan to travel with kids, it's a good idea to educate them ahead of time on what to do in case they get lost. Instruct them on how to get back to your hotel or residence, and write in a card all your information necessary to get in touch with you right away. Mobile phones are also nifty in this type of situation. If you can manage to give your kids phones then it will be a lot of convenience to both sides. Note: Program your name and contact on the speed dial of your kid's phone to make it a lot easier for them to get in touch with you in case anything happens.

Keep under the radar and comply with the law- Some countries and areas have distinctive sets of laws that are only applicable in that specific region. Try to acquaint yourself with these 'special laws' before you go touring an area. Example, there are places in Palawan, Philippines where you can't go fishing because the marine life there are guarded by law. In Singapore, it is not allowed for anyone to chew gum while on the streets. Do not give police authorities a reason to detain (and perhaps abuse) you. If detained for whatever reason by an official, ask for identification. If in doubt, tell them that you want to see their superior. Keep your thoughts intact and never let them get to you. Always, be on the side of the law.

Enjoy public transport but be cautious- Using the public commute in an area you are unfamiliar with can be such an eye-opening and rewarding experience. You get to experience how the locals get from one place to another every day. While this can be a lot of fun, take note that these public transports are also avenues of crime. When riding trains and buses, make sure all your belongings are secured and complete. And whatever you do, never ride an unmarked cab or one that tries to discuss prices. Taxis have meters and therefore should be used for that purpose.

KNOW SELF-DEFENSE: It's not considered violence when you're defending yourself from someone who has intentions to hurt you, it's called SELF-DEFENSE. You don't need to be a black-belt Karate master to look after yourself from mischievous individuals who try to grab your bag. Just make sure you have the right protection tools, such as stun-gun or pepper spray, and the proper knowledge on how to use it. In case you don't have those defensive items, I suggest you bring a flashlight at night and an umbrella during day time. Apparently, a perpetrator sees these items as a sign that the person is aware of his or her surroundings and would rather pick out another prey to victimize.

KEEP EMERGENCY HOTLINE NUMBERS: Be informed of the emergency numbers in the area. Jot down the local police hotline numbers, hospitals, and clinics in your mobile phone or a piece of paper, and carry it when going around the area. If in case you find it hard to find, hotels and other accommodations provide directories or phone directory assistance to their guests. Take advantage of these services, you'll never know when you'll require them.

SEARCH FOR A LOYAL COMPANION: Despite the crucial truth that many people would only make friends with you to con you, there are still some trusted people that you shouldn't take for granted. Although it's not nice to talk to strangers, it's impossible not to befriend few warm-hearted local people from the place where you'll spend your relaxing vacation. It's okay to be friendly and encounter someone who knows the whereabouts of the place, in this way; you have a personal tourist guide and additional friend from a wonderful destination.

Secure your important items- Take time to have your travel documents and identifications photocopied before traveling. Keep these documents secure, just in case an untoward incident occurs, like robbery wherein eve the necessary travel files were taken. Arming yourselves with copies of these valuable records will save you from further inconveniences.

These might just be bits of precautionary steps to enjoy a safe vacation trip. The best part about this is that you and your family are secured from harm while taking pleasure in the paradise right at your doorstep.

If you are interested in learning more about the travel or timeshare industry come check out travel industry news.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maryann_Ga

Phuket Is a World Class Destination in Thailand

Phuket, apart form Pattaya, in Thailand is another world class destination. This serene place is known for its beautiful beaches and blue sea. It is also one of the top ten diving destinations in the world. There are sight seeing options around Phuket, the main attraction being James Bond Island. This island has provided the perfect backdrop for many Hollywood as well as regional films. The popular Hollywood film, The Beach was shot here, though it failed to make a hit at the box office.

For many people Phuket is a paradise and they return to this place as they want to relax and delve in the fun. The people are warm and hospitable and apart from the delectable Thai cuisine you get to taste other types of cuisines as well. The markets are abuzz with people as you can expect to get some good deals for any commodities you buy. You can also carry Thai souvenirs for your loved ones back home. There are all budget hotels in Phuket and you will not be spending much time in finding a hotel of your choice. Do indulge in diving and other types of water activities as they surely will leave you spellbound.

The visuals of the breathtaking natural reefs will pleasantly surprise you. The whole region is isolated from pollution of the other cities and hence you can take in the fresh air at the beach day in and day out. You can also go for a short diving course and get a diver's certificate in return. And if you want to go to destinations via sea then do not forget to visit Similan Islands as well as Hin Muang and Hin Daeng. The boat rides to reach these beautiful spots don't cost much. And the water temperature is just perfect, hovering around 82 degrees. The marine life under the sea will leave you breathless. It is so exotic and peaceful that you will surely have a fantastic time.

In the sea, you also get to see the bigger fishes such as the manta rays and the whale sharks. The island destinations around Phuket make for wonderful one day trips. You can start early in the morning, enjoy your day at the island and then return home in the evening. The sea is safe and the water is calm. The sea is good for diving throughout the year. If you have a good taste for food then don't forget to visit the food stalls near the beach for piping non veg as well as veg food. For a few bahts you get to experience fantastic Thai cuisine. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags in your next vacation and head to Phuket. Who knows, you may have the best time of your life, even better than Leonardo De Caprio in the movie, The Beach.

Kunal Vahalia who stays in Mumbai, India has written hundreds of travel articles as his passion and has shared his experiences on article directories and online travel websites. He is a travel agent living in Mumbai and he specializes in doing Mumbai sightseeing tours. He offers many Mumbai tours such as full day Mumbai city tour, kanheri caves tour, elephant caves tour, half day Mumbai tour, etc.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kunal_A_Vahalia

Cebu City in Philippines is Enchanting

Philippines is a beautiful Asian country and the people are warm and gracious. One of the most beautiful vacation spots in Philippines and is known for its Mactan islands where most of the resorts are located. Here you can just relax by the sea, take in the fresh and take long walks. In case you are one of those adventurous types then you can splurge your money in the myriad diving activities such as snorkeling and underwater submarine. The waters are crystal clear and you can easily see the floor a few feet below. The resorts are excellent and the prices are quite reasonable. And transportation in Cebu is not a problem at all. There are buses that take you from one point to the other and you can also hire bikes which you can drive. You will off course need an international license for the same.

Since the city of Cebu is just 20 minutes away from the island you can frequent the city whenever you want. You can check out the large malls that stock everything from Prada to Louis Vuitton. However there are bargain shops as well and you can really get good deals if you are an expert at bargaining. A good place to find some bargain deals is the Colon street, this street is dotted with small shops having everything from dresses to boots. Here you can also buy souvenirs for your loved ones back home. The street is also popular for buying guitars and many of them are hand made.

The island is quite big and you will need a couple of days in case you also want to see the most beautiful parts of the island. The countryside is very beautiful and it is quite clean and green. Hence you are sure to have a good time when you go to Cebu. The nightlife is also very enjoyable as most of the resorts have restaurants open throughout the night. You can head off to a pub or disco and dance till the wee hours of the morning. Transportation is not so expensive and hence if you want to explore the different parts of the island then you can simply hire a car and a driver. This way you can travel to the best places without the worries of getting lost in foreign land.

And this is not all. You can exchange your dollars or any other currency at any of the money changers without a hitch. There are money changers ate every corner including the airport. Do not carry too much jewelry with you though. There have not been many incidents of theft but why take chances anyways. Since the waters are clean you can go for a nice swim at the beach. There is a life guard or tow at the beach but it is recommended not to go too far in the sea.

Kunal Vahalia is a travel agent based in Mumbai and he loves to do different types of Mumbai City tours for his clients. You can visit his website at: namastecity.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kunal_A_Vahalia

The Royal Palm Reserve in Jamaica

It goes without saying that Jamaica is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Away from the sun, sand, and sea, the beautiful Caribbean island offers immense opportunities for the lovers of nature. So if you are planning a visit to Jamaica, you must include Eco-attractions in your itinerary and if you don't have time to explore all of them, you can at least visit the Royal Palm Reserve. Also, as a special mention, you can make your trip to Jamaica all the more memorable by staying away from the crowds in the privacy and comfort of your own space offered by the beautiful Jamaica accommodation rentals. Comprising Jamaica villas, cottages, studios and apartments, these rentals combine the services and comforts of a hotel with a personal environment that only a home can provide. If you are want to be close to the attractions, you can check out the Silver Sands villas, conveniently located from airport in Montego Bay and within driving distance of the best of what Jamaica has to offer.

Coming back to the Royal Palm Reserve, it is spread over 300 acres and is home to over 300 species of animals, reptiles, birds and butterflies and over 114 species of flowers.

Its also a great place to visit especially if you are interested in bird watching. There is a half mile beautiful walk that leads you to a 30 foot tower from where you can enjoy some of the best views of all of Negril.

The park is also home to some rare species. Check out the stocked fish ponds and you will be able to spot the rare West Indian Whistling Ducks floating around in the stocked fish ponds. They are scared of people so keep quiet while observing or they may just fly off.

The ponds are also stocked with a type of fish that goes by the name of Tilapia. During the peak months the ponds are overstocked and visitors are allowed to fish in them. Fishing equipment is available upon request but bring a loaf of bread for bait and to feed the Whistling Ducks with.

There is also an alligator that lives within the confines of a caged pond but either because of the heat or because it is too shy, it is mostly hiding in the swampy waters so you may have to wait patiently for a glimpse.

The park also has great picnic areas and if you let the staff know in advance they will have the meal prepared for you. Otherwise you can take along your own picnic basket. Besides, there is also an interactive museum that offers educational opportunity for kids to learn about the wildlife, flora and fauna.

And if all that activity leaves you tired but satisfied there is no better place to relax, put your feet up and recollect the joys of the day with your family or friends in the comfort of your own Jamaica villas

About the Author

Karen Thompson is a travel writer for Mysilversands, a company dedicated to providing quality self-catering accommodation in Jamaica Accommodation Rentals, Jamaica villas, cottages and Jamaica apartments by the sea.

Interesting Facts & Trivia About Thousand Islands

If you are planning a tour to Canada this summer, it's important to know that there is much more to experience in Canada besides the stunning Niagara Falls. There are several beautiful sites that add to the charm of Ontario, Canada in addition to the famous Niagara Falls. One such breathtaking site is Thousand Islands, a cluster of over 1000 breathtaking islands that straddle across the US and Canada border along the St. Lawrence River. Wouldn't it be a dream to cruise through these spectacular islands and wonder in amazement about the history of their formation? Your dream can come true if you take The Thousand Islands cruise during your Niagara Falls Tour that takes you on a journey amidst this amazing archipelago. Here are some interesting facts about these islands that will increase your excitement about discovering them when you tour Niagara Falls!

* Thousand Islands were formed during the retreat of the last ice age, which exposed the hard granite and gneiss characteristic of the Canadian Shield. Covered with vegetation, the islands often appear to pop out of the water, resembling mushroom caps.

* Although the region is called Thousand Islands, in reality they are 1,864 islands.

* Boldt Castle located on one of the islands called Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region, was built in the 1890's by millionaire George Boldt for his beloved wife Louise. It is a popular landmark and a tourist attraction. George Boldt altered the shape of the island into a 'heart-shape', and changed its name from 'Hart Island' to 'Heart Island'.

* Louise passed away at a young age. Boldt was heartbroken and stopped the construction of the partly erected castle. It stands to this day unfinished, although in recent years some of its rooms have been improved.

* Heart Island has been host to some spectacular fireworks displays over the years. In August of 1938, almost 20,000 people gathered to witness the $2,500 display of fireworks celebrating the dedication of the Thousand Island Bridge. Almost a year later, on August 6, 1939 another fireworks display.

* The male deer, or stags, which can be seen throughout the Heart Island known as 'harts'.

* The Thousand Islands Bridge is an international bridge over the Saint Lawrence River connecting northern New York in the United States with southeastern Ontario in Canada.

* The famous "Shortest International Bridge" that joins two equally tiny islands lies is in reality entirely within Canada, contrary to the popular belief that one of the islands is situated in Canada and the other in United States. However, local tour guides for decades touted the bridge as the shortest span between Canada and United States and that's why it got its name as "Shortest International Bridge".

* The popular Thousand Island dressing originated in the Thousand Island Region. It's made from ketchup, mayonnaise and pickle relish.

Articles by Tia Jones, a freelance writer who contributes for affordable travel tours for tours4fun.com.For more information about how Tours4fun can help you plan a trip to your next travel destination visit: tours4fun.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tia_A_Jones

Sydney's Secret Beaches

Shhhh - it's certainly no secret that Sydney is infamous for its prolific beach culture. Tourists from all over the world flock to Sydney hotels to check out the surf and sand at Bondi, Manly or Palm Beach - one of the best known playgrounds for Australia's rich and famous. You can surf, swim, snorkel or just be seen with the beautiful people.

However, for those who are looking to get away from the crowds - there are plenty of lesser known shores throughout the area that are perfect for a more quiet and relaxing beach time. If you're a Sydney local or a traveller that's after something a little bit off the beaten path - or you're looking to get a little sun down there, consider heading to one of these more tranquil destinations:

Tamarama Beach
Just down the road from iconic Bondi Beach, Tamarama Beach is a smaller and cosier beach boasting some great waves. This hidden gem has been building its name so it can get a little crowded during peak travel season, as it is often considered to be a great place for “celebrity spotting”. For those who are looking to keep a lower profile while staying at luxurious Bondi hotels, this spot is a must visit.

Shelley Beach

Just a kilometre south of Manly and Sydney's northern beaches, is the little protected area of Shelley Beach. Shelley makes a great swimming beach as it's well shielded from the winds and the rough surf conditions that Manly is known for. Shelley has long been considered one of the easiest to find and popular “secret spots” of Sydney and close to breathtaking Manly accommodation.

Milk Beach

This little gem of a beach is well tucked away amongst the shrubbery of Nielsen Park in Vaucluse and is great for swimming. It’s also a lesser known picture perfect viewing spot for Sydney's iconic harbour fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

Obelisk Beach

If you're looking to experience something a little different, Obelisk beach is the place to be "seen" sun bathing au natural. There are actually a number of nudist beaches dotting the Sydney Harbour. You can access Obelisk via Middle Head, and a path takes you partway through the Sydney Harbour National Park. Definitely a great beach for those who aren’t shy about showing off what God has given them.

About the Author

Find cheap accommodation at quickbeds.com. At Quickbeds you can book your hotel or accommodation up to a year in advance in Australia or International. Never again will you miss out on a great deal because you had to take your chances and hope that you could book the property of your choice at the last minute.

The White Snake in Hangzhou

If you go to China one of the places you must visit is Hangzhou and its West Lake. Let me bore you with some quick short history facts of this old and important city in China.

+ During the 1127-1279 (southern song Dynasty) Hangzhou became the capital city of the southern Song Dynasty.

+Over 2,200 years ago Hangzhou was founded by the Qin Dynasty labeling one of the Seven ancient cities of China.

+When Marco Polo visited Hangzhou in 1290 his breath was taken away after he saw the west lake and made a popular Chinese Saying "Shang you tiantang, xia you Hangzhou" = In Heaven there is paradise, on earth there is Hangzhou"

Hangzhou is the starting point of the tale "The White Snake".

The first tale of this story was found during the Tang Dynasty (618 AD). This is a love story filled with loss and romance. There are many versions as it has been re written many times in many types of media.

It starts with a little white snake and a little green snake that gets trapped by Fa Hai, this man tries to kill both the little white and green snake. However Xu Xian (another man) intervenes and saves both the snakes.

1000 years go past and both snakes take human form and become very powerful and very beautiful women. The white lady (formerly the white snake) wants to find Xu Xian and marry him to reward him for saving her during her time of need but Xu Xian has died and had been re-born more than 14 times. Using her special power which enables her to look into people's past lives, she looks high and low but can not find him. Until one day she is by the west lake in Hangzhou and its starts to rain, a man runs up to her and gives her his umbrella.

Bai shen (Lady White ) looks into this man's eyes and falls in love with him but she can't make herself look into his past, for the fear of finding out that this man is not the same man she promised to marry.

After a week Lady White gets the courage and looks at the man's past and it turns out he is the one she wanted all time. They marry and live quite happily with the Lady green (formerly the green snake) until the monk Fa hai returns into their lives. They set up an Herbalist shop and White Snake uses her magical powers to make the medicines especially potent. All is well and soon Lady White becomes pregnant

While Lady White is out Fa Hai, now a monk comes in and tells Xu Xian that is wife is a giant white snake.Xu xian laughs in disbelief and tells the monk to leave, however fa hai tells him to make his wife drink one cup of realgar wine

During Dragon Boat Festival, Chinese families drink a kind of yellow (realgar) wine. However this drink is dangerous to the lady white as it returns her to her snake form. She drinks the wine to please her husband not knowing what wine she was drinking. During the night Xu Xian pulls the covers away on their bed and sees a huge white snake and dies of sheer terror.

When Lady White regains form she is distraught, filled with pain and anger she go to steal the resurrection plant on the Kunlun Mountain. Battling untold numbers she gets the plant and brings her husband back to life. Lady White tricks her husband into believing that the white snake was not her but another different snake.

When Xu Xian is out walking he meets Fa hai, Fai hai convinces Xu Xian that his wife is actually a white snake and takes him away. The Lady White and her sister goes to beg the monk for her husband and he refuses, so she raises the lake and summons water creatures to do battle against the monk and beings from the heavens, that the monk calls.

Lady White and fa hai are in a stale mate, neither of the sides can defeat the other. However because Lady White is pregnant she can not continue the battle and flees. Xu Xian finds out that his wife want to see him after the battle and sneaks away realizing how much his wife loves him and his mistake for trusting Fa hai.

When Xu xian finds his wife, lady green is furious at his betrayal and tries to attack him but Lady White intervenes and after many tears the truth is told from the very beginning, Xu xian realize why he loved her in the first place and they begin their life, once again happy in their love.

Fa hai goes and asks heaven for help to defeat Lady White and save Xu xian from her; he receives a power to revert Lady White back to her snake form and so allowing him to imprison her. After getting this new power he chases after her and confronts her but the power doesn't work, due to the baby inside her womb. Fai hai warns that when the baby is born, he will claim her and take her away.Lady White knows that she is unable to fight this power and goes into a depressed mood. The husband becomes aware of what will happen when he sees his wife making many different sizes of clothing, so the child can wear them as he grows.

He pleads with the monk but he refuses saying that one day she will turn on him. When the baby is born, the monk comes and traps Lady White and imprisons her under the pagoda in HangZhou, declaring she can only escape once the pagoda has crumbled and the lake drained.

There are many different ending to this story, below are two of the ending;

+ That lady green flees and trains to become even more powerful and after fa hai, xu xian and lady white's son is dead; attacks the pagoda with an army, destroying it and freeing lady white.

+ That the son and lady green unites.The son goes on a mission, which ends up in releasing lady white from her prison, reuniting the family and sending the monk,the son, the husband and both the snakes to heaven, where they are immortal.

My Blog- Giving you Information on learning Mandarin, living and working in china

Chinese Blossom- Offering Cheap Mandarin lessons and Chinese classes in Shanghai

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nathan_Gajewski

Mount Meru in Tanzania Africa

This is one of the highest and most beautiful volcanoes in Africa. On its floor, you will find over 450 bird species and animals that have made this there home. The most common animals are the rhino, elephant, buffalo, baboon, warthog, black and white Columbus monkey and duiker. You will pass through the parkland montane forest on your way to the summit. This is a giant moorland and heather zone. a narrow, barren ridge which provides stunning views of the Ash Cone lying several thousand feet below in the crater and Kilimanjaro in the background is the way to the summit.

You will also find flamingos and other wildlife in the Ngundoto crater and Momella lakes. This is a very beautiful scenery. A park guide and a porter will accompany you on to the summit. On the mountain, dormitory like hut are used for accommodation. Sleeping bags and mats are a requirement for these huts. You can also choose to spend the night at Momella Lodge which is in Arusha Park. The program starts with you arriving at a hotel near Moshi town where you will have an overnight stay and breakfast in the morning.

The following day in the morning, drive to the park gate to Miriakamba Hut through game filled surroundings. This Hut is 2470m up. You will see the Kilimanjaro from this Hut. You will continue to the Saddle Hut which is 350m up and 3 hrs away. On the following day, an early start will take you first to a superb viewpoint on the crater rim. You will then go up an airy ridge that will lead you up the summit. You will later return to Miriakamba then out the park gate to a hotel in Moshi. You will spend the night there and leave in the morning.

Icerock, a Kenyan tour company, is managed by Joseph Muthui Gathu, a pioneer mountaineer and graduate of the American National Outdoor Leadership School. He is a former member of Kenya's Mountain Rescue Team and spent 13 years working in the mountains before setting up Ice Rock in 1998. For more info on Icerock Tour Company, reach Joseph at http://www.icerockclimbing.com/index.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joseph_Muthui

Hikkaduwa Surfer's paradise in Sri Lanka

Along the busy smooth road from Colombo to Galle lies a town called Hikkaduwa. The town is centred alongside the main road; however, its main attraction lies in the sparkling seas alongside it.

Not a particularly historic or religious site, Hikkaduwa gained popularity only since the 1960's. Originally the town was acclaimed for its intricate lace-making and drum frames. But what really draws in crowds from all over the island, as well as the world, is the spectacular waves that make Hikkaduwa the second best surf paradise in Sri Lanka. Surfing is so popular here that the National Championship of the Japanese Pro Surfers Association has been held here for over 5 years. A typical day during the ideal November - March board surf season will see countless number of locals and foreigners enjoying the waves the whole day through.

Apart from surfing, Hikkaduwa is also ideal for other water activities such as diving and snorkelling. The amazing coral diversity in the area has led to the creation of the coral gardens boat tours, which make it easier for the non diver to enjoy the reefs. These glass-bottomed tour boats provide glimpses of the underwater beauty deep beneath the waves.

All this activity is sure to make the visitor ravenous. Hikkaduwa is well known for the diverse range of food options, be it in a little hut on the beach, a cafe, or a home-turned-hotel. Delicious hot and spicy sea food, normal rice and curry and the ever famous rottis with their mouth watering array of fillings are sure to tempt your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Night-time sees the transformation of the town into one big beach party. Good music, warm sand, a crowd of interesting people and good food is sure to keep you on your feet and on the beach until the wee hours.

The visitor looking at Sri Lanka travel may wish to explore the country and especially its beaches at their own pace. Malkey Rent A Car, will help such traveller to do just that, a Sri Lanka car rental facility boasting 30 years of experience in providing high quality transportation services.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Vacation Packages That Are All Inclusive

If you've never been on an all inclusive vacation before, you might be missing out on some of the best deals that can possibly be had when it comes to bargain vacations that give off a bang. With trips planned to Europe, Egypt, and Hawaii or somewhere in the Caribbean, all inclusive vacations can save you a bundle, not to mention the fact that they can save you on the time you spend worrying about how much things will cost.

For the weary traveler who loves to travel but doesn't really want to worry about bills while they're away, all-inclusive vacations certainly are appealing. Imagine paying for your trip in advance, meals and everything so that you don't have to worry about doing any of it when you finally get to your destination. This is the main draw for those who are interested in this kind of vacation package.

More often than not, all-inclusive vacations usually (though not always) center around river cruises, or oceanic voyages. Popular cruise lines such as Carnival offer all-inclusive package deals to couples, families and groups; and while some packages vary, they usually include the cost of the actual cruise plus the cost of meals and sometimes the cost of any alcohol that you consume. Once on board a cruise ship, there are plenty of things to see and do from shows to games to sports to lounging out by the pool- all while you are sailing around the ocean or on a river.

For some people, cruises offer the perfect escape as many can last as long as up to a week. Recently, one of my own family members took a cruise that left from New York and went to the Caribbean and back. It was the best time that they ever had, and they are already planning another cruise, this time to Alaska! Whatever you decide, you can certainly speak to a travel agent who will be able to help you make arrangements and give you advice on the best kinds of cruises to take as well as keep you within a specified budget.

When you are getting ready to leave for your cruise, make sure that you pack everything that you need. For instance, if you are planning a cruise in the middle of the summer to leave from New York to go to Florida, the weather may be different both while en route as well as once you finally arrive.

Egypt Vacation Agent AMA Waterway Vacations Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brenda_Williams

Cheapiest Boston Hotels

Widely known as the Cradle of Liberty, Boston is indeed a special place in the eyes of millions of visitors every year, transcending its reputation as a historic cultural and financial centre in New England and America. Combining the stately charm of its historical landmarks and iconic universities with the energy and dynamism of the sporting and arts scene here, Boston possesses an unrivalled allure for any visitor.

For those of you who are hoping to experience this wonderful city but only have a limited budget, you will be delighted to know that there are cheap Boston hotels available throughout the city that makes it accessible to budget travelers despite its prestigious reputation.

When you step into the budget hotels in Boston, do expect to feel a certain warmth and coziness embodied by old-school design and furnishings that could be absent in many luxury hotels. Your guest experience is not compromised either, as these hotels generally provide the basic amenities which are enough to make you comfortable and feel rejuvenated after a long day exploring the city. All at an affordable price, great value and mostly convenient location that can save you more money to enjoy all that the city has to offer.

A special consideration that you may have to take into account when booking your hotel in Boston is whether any major events, festivals and graduation ceremonies are in full swing during your visit. This is because hotels, especially the cheaper ones in the downtown area, tend to get filled up very quickly due to the influx of visitors to the city. For your information, some major festivals and events are Patriot's Day, the Boston Marathon and Independence Day while the main graduation weekend involving the many universities here usually takes place at the end of May.

To avoid the unwelcome dilemma of a lack of hotel rooms during these periods, it is thus prudent to place your hotel bookings as early as you can to get the hotel room of your choice at the best rates. That being said, you still have other budget accommodation options in the suburbs which are still highly accessible to the downtown area via the public transportation networks.

Boston, being a small city with an extensive public transport network, is very visitor-friendly as most of the attractions are easily accessible and the city's sights best enjoyed on foot. If you want to save on some travelling time and costs, though, it would be wise to choose your hotel in the downtown area or Back Bay to be situated near a wide array of shopping, entertainment, dining and sightseeing options that are more than enough to keep you occupied throughout your stay. Although both areas are in close proximity to the city centre, which boasts considerably more luxury accommodation, you would also be able to find cheaper options in the form of bed and breakfasts, motels and more regular budget to mid-ranged hotels.

Business travelers will discover the downtown area, which is also the financial district, to be their haven as there are hotels with attractive rates and excellent facilities tailored just for them. Leisure travelers will find the downtown and Back Bay easily accessible to all the historical attractions which they wish to see, as well as a host of dining, shopping and entertainment options.

On top of it, both downtown and Back Bay boast great connectivity as the subway and trolley lines are highly concentrated here, making it easier to get to any attraction that you choose.

About the Author

If you are unsure of where to search for cheap Boston hotels, Chan Brothers Hotel Portal would be a good choice. With a database of a comprehensive selection of hotels as well as instant confirmation of your booking, booking your hotel is now more hassle-free and convenient than ever before.

Disneyland - Amazing Site With Wonders

There is a range of Disneyland parks located at various locations in the world. These include the Disney resorts of California, Paris and Tokyo. These are the best theme parks of the world and offer a great opportunity to enjoy your vacations with entire your family.

Disneyland Park is one of the most fascinating tourist destinations in the world for its amazing and extraordinary activities. The park is located in Anaheim, California which is maintained by the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. Disneyland is the only theme park whose construction and renovation work had directly supervised by Walt Disney himself. This is one of the most visited theme parks in the world. According to estimation around six million visitors visited the park since July 1955.

The Walt Disney World of Orlando is another park which is located at the Florida. This is not just a theme park but is a vast resort complex which covers around 47 square miles of the area. The recreation activities involve hiking, biking, swimming and several other activities which will make you feel refresh and rejuvenating. The area of the park is divided into three parts such as shopping, dining and entertainment areas along with an area for nightclubs.

The Disney resort of Orlando, Florida is referred as the Disney World or Walt Disney World. No other theme park of the world has got such honor and they are generally known as Disneyland and not the world. This park is known for its huge size and diversity which make it a number one tourist destination in the world.

This place is considered as the one of the most wonderful and enchanting places of the world. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is meant for providing all means of facilities and amenities which will make your tour an extraordinary one.

Paris is one of the most historically and culturally significant cities of the world. The major attraction of the city of Paris includes the Disneyland Paris. This is the first theme park from the Disney Corporation outside the United States. This would be the best place you would like to take your children during their vacation in Paris. Here they will find an opportunity to meet their favorite Disney characters which will certainly make them amuse.

During your tour these exciting Disneyland theme parks, you need not have to worry about your accommodation. These parks offer some of the most exciting and magnificent hotels that keep you right in the middle of all the happenings all the time.

One can find a range of hotels around several Disneyland but there are only fifteen of them which are officially operated and maintained by Disney authorities. All of the Disney hotels are excellent and are theme oriented offering excellent designs and services.

Most of them are moderately priced and give best value for your money. They are generally located just half an hour away from the park and most of the hotels offer free transportation to and fro.

Some of the most fascinating and must stay hotels of Disneyland during your tour are The Marriott Residence Hotel, Marriott Orlando World Center, Universal's Portofino and many more.

For more information on Disneyland Hotels and Disneyland Hotel Maps please visit our website.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Urmann

3 Important Eurostar Destinations You Must Know About

Eurostar is the high speed train that connects many important destinations in Western Europe directly or in cooperation with other trains. In addition to providing direct services from London to Paris, Brussels, Lille and Disneyland; Eurostar connects more than 100 destinations with its complementary services. Here is a brief description of three most important Eurostar destinations that are very famous as a tourist destination.

1. Brussels:

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium and is an old city. Brussels has two official languages which are French and Dutch. French and Dutch speaking population is in equal volume in this city. Brussels is also known for its beautiful architectural buildings. Brussels is an administrative city with headquarters of many important organizations, but it is equally best for spending a peaceful holiday. Hotels are available at cheap rates in Brussels and you can see some famous museums and churches while in Brussels.

2. Lille:

Lille is another important destination where you can reach directly from London by Eurostar. Situated in Northern region of France, this is the 5th largest metropolitan city of France. Known for its beautiful architecture, Lille promises a vibrant and exotic nightlife with many excellent clubs and restaurants available to serve you. In addition to all this, Lille has many world class universities related to Business, Science and Arts. While in Lille you can visit some of the famous museums such as Museums of National History, Museum of Arts (Musee des Beaux-Arts) and some other.

3. Amsterdam:

Amsterdam, the capital of Netherland is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe due to its pleasant weather and beautiful sightseeing. Amsterdam can be reached from London by Eurostar in cooperation with Thalys train. Although you can travel all year around, but winters are very cold with a average temperature of around 2-3 degree Celsius. Key feature of Amsterdam is its Canal system which is a major attraction for tourists. While in Amsterdam, you can visit marvelous museums and churches of Amsterdam. Various city tours are offered by tour operators which help you to cover all major places of this city at cheap rate.

There are many other great cities in Europe which are best for spending your holiday season. Train network in Europe is highly efficient and cheap. So plan your trip to Europe and enjoy some of the memorable moments of your life.

About the Author

Grab city break offers of Eurostar and enjoy your vacations to these destinations with Eurostar city breaks Lille, Eurostar city breaks Brussels and Eurostar city breaks Amsterdam.

Top 10 Attractions in and Around Derby

The city of Derby is steeped in history in its own right but also makes a great base for exploring the stunning surrounding countryside such as the Derbyshire Dales and the Peak District National Park. As a result there is a wide variety of attractions to be found in and around the Derby area, both for locals and visitors alike.

Below is a list of the top ten local attractions in Derby based on a combination of popularity and proximity to the city.

1. Derby Cathedral

The tower of Derby Cathedral is an iconic image within the city that dominates its skyline. A trip to the top of the tower will provide visitors breath-taking views of the city. The history of the Cathedral dates back to the tenth century and contains a wealth of treasures including The Bakewell Screen, Bess of Hardwick's Monument, St Katharine's Chapel, Joseph Wright's tombstone and Ceri Richards Stained Glass windows.

In 2006 a family of Peregrine Falcons nested in the cathedral tower and their progress can be followed online.

2. The Silk Mill - Derby Museum of History and Industry

The Silk Mill is situated on the site of one of the world's first ever factories and makes up Part of the UNESCO Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site. It now houses Derby's collection of industrial memorabilia including railways and a wide range of Rolls Royce aircraft engineering. This popular attraction is a great insight into Derby's industrial past.

3. Royal Crown Derby

The Royal Crown is the oldest surviving manufacturer of English fine bone china and dates back to 1750 in its origins at Nottingham road. Now based in Osmaston, the company is privately owned and is renowned for its quality and creativity. Visitors can tour the factory while in operation as well as the museum, factory shop and coffee shop which make up the visitor centre.

4. Derby QUAD

Situated in the heart of the city centre, QUAD comprises of a gallery, cinema, cafe bar and arts workshop all contained in the iconic new building that gives it its name. QUAD is the only place outside of London to host a British Film Institute's National Archive. Visitors can enjoy the cream of international, independent and Hollywood film on its two purpose built screens.

5. Derby Museum and Art Gallery

Derby Museum and Art Gallery is home to a large variety of prominent and interesting collections including porcelain, paintings, archaeology and wildlife. The museum also displays the largest collection of paintings in the world of the local artist Joseph Wright who was an Associate of the Royal Academy. His subjects include portraits, landscapes, literary subjects and scenes from industry and scientific equipment representing a very important and exciting era of pioneering discovery.

The Archaeology Gallery is where local material from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages can be found including a sarcophagus and a number of Anglo-Saxon crosses. In the gallery there are also a couple of Eqyptian mummies.

The museum's temporary exhibitions program ensures around 20 different varied and exciting displays each year.

6. Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site

The importance of the Derwent Valley is demonstrated by the fact that it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Derby is one of only five cities in the UK to have this. The Valley runs from Derby and follows the River Derwent past Darley Abbey and into Matlock. The scenery running throughout is some of the most picturesque in the country.

7. Derby Ghost Walks

As you would expect from the most haunted city in the UK, Derby offers a number of different ghost walks through the city as well as overnight vigils and one off events throughout the year with Halloween being one of the busiest.

8. Chatsworth House

A little further afield in Chatsworth, Bakewell in the Derbyshire Peak District is Chatsworth House. This stunning property, home to the Dukes of Devonshire and the Cavendish family since 1549, is open to the public from March to December and contains a unique collection of priceless paintings, furniture, Old Master drawings, neoclassical sculpture, books and other artefacts. As well as the house and it's contents, there are regular exhibitions, a farm shop and restaurant and 1000 acres of land to explore that make up the estate.

9. Pride Park Stadium

The stadium is home to Derby County FC, the city's number one football team, also known as The Rams. The stadium is a popular attraction within the city mainly amongst football fans as they can get a behind the scenes tour and a walkout onto the famous turf.

10. Heights of Abraham

Based in Matlock Bath, in the Derbyshire Peak District, is The Heights of Abraham opened as a regency style 'savage garden'. It is accessed by a cable car rising from the floor of the Derwent Valley that gives you fantastic 360 degree views along the valley as well as to the wider Peak District. Once at the top there are many things to do and explore including the network of caverns, fossil factory, a coffee shop, a gift shop and the summit bar. This remains one of the busiest attractions in the Peak District and a short stop away for those visiting Derby itself.

For more useful information about Derby and surrounding areas visit Activ Derby's online guide to the city at activderby.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rufus_Davis

East Coast Park- Sea, Sun and Sports Galore

Singapore is a group of islands whose vibrant entertainments attract visitors each year from all over the world, making tourism one of its most successful industries. From shopping and various parks, to diversified festivals; visitors to Lion City can be sure of non-stop entertainment. Located off East Coast Parkway, East Coast Park is one of the most popular places for recreation, especially water sports. Spanning 185 hectares, East Coast Park is the largest and most popular park in Singapore and is built on reclaimed land with a man-made beach where swimming is popular. The park has been in operation since the 1970s. Visitors to the park engage in a wide array of activities, from water sports to other recreational activities to dining. For families, some of the popular things to do at the park are barbequing and picnicking. There are 80 barbeque pits facilitated in the park for barbequing. The park is renowned for offering a multitude of sporting activities such as cycling, rollerblading, cable skiing and (more particularly) water sports. But if you've "been-there-done-that" and are looking for some extreme sports action, do not miss out on the Xtreme Skatepark.

The park, taking into mind the preferences of all kinds of visitors, also comes equipped with volleyball courts, bowling alleys, tennis courts, restaurants and a hawker centre. Fishing is something else that visitors to the park enjoy and you might even have the luck of catching a huge barammundi. Tents can be seen pitched all along the beach of the park but if you do have camping on your mind you will have to get a permit from the AXS machine.

Some more fun activities available at the park are kite flying and photography. It even has facilities to do tai-chi and other wellness activities such as yoga. There is also a reflexology footpath. Cycling is a great way to take in the picturesque coast; conveniently, the Park has a 12 km cycle track. Fitness fanatics can indulge in exercise and workouts in the areas where fitness equipment has been installed while joggers may look forward to the 15 km jogging track

A 10,000 square foot facility is available for indoor mini golf where miniatures of well-known Singapore landmarks sit in an 18-hole indoor mini golf course. There are plenty of seafood restaurants, cafes and F and B outlets to soothe famished appetites. The East Coast Hawker Food Centre is great to savor the local dishes of Singapore. There are also refreshment kiosks conveniently placed all around the park, as well as restrooms. For accommodation one may look to the holiday chalets and other accommodation facilities in and around the park but if you're looking for a luxury hotel Singapore presents the Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel which overlooks the Singapore river. This Singapore hotel in Central Business District is located close to Orchard road. The hotel has executive accommodation, business support services and wireless connectivity to keep not only the business traveler at ease, but also caters to the leisure traveler with its sense of luxury and delicious cuisine from its award-winning restaurants.

About the Author

Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

Safety Tips to Travel in the Philippines

As an Expat who is also a frequent traveler in and out of the Philippines there are a few things that make life so much easier especially if you are here for only a short time. Its a vast country and islands everywhere with sights to see and no doubt many your not even aware of due to poor publicity.

The Philippines itself has not been proactive in promoting the country externally which is why it has a tiny portion of the tourism market that it should have. Tie that with the problems of corruption and terrorism the country seems promoted more like a war zone than a holiday destination. But lets remember here NEWS generally sells bad news not the good news and definitely not tourism locations. Truth be known terrorism is primarily located far away from the tourist areas and corruption although it runs through the veins of the Philippines like blood as a tourist or retiree your unlikely to encounter the issues unless you encourage it. E.g. offering a bribe to get visas processed.

Before you arrive in the Philippines your trip should already have begun. What do you want to see? Where do you want to go? Are there things I haven't thought of? I will run through these with you in small chunks.

What do you want to see - It may not be as simple as it sounds prime reason like now is the wet season has just arrived so travelling to a beach for a couple of hours on a bus may sound great but catch it on a rainy day and your couple of hours could end up a couple of days if the road gets damaged or bridge washed away. Prime example of that is a friend of mine who lives in a fairly remote area which involved waiting three days for the river to go down enough to get his vehicle across. So if you're looking at things you want to see the weather is important but also planning for days that may not be advantageous to go and having other things to do which are easily within reach.

Where do you want to go - A current example of "where people want to go" is the Volcano on Luzon which is classed as a danger zone due to risk of eruption which may be a costly mistake if you try to go there. There are some people already been forced back by coast guard but the tour operators were still keen to encourage the trip. But on a positive side there are thousands of things to see the biggest problem is finding a lot of the less publicised ones. I would advise searching around on the forums and Google to get as many places and reviews you would want to visit as this will quickly build a big picture that should give you more to do than time you have to do it in. Also the bigger resorts often have things that aren't publicised well either so worth scouting around the resorts to see what is their latest developments to their resort. Currently on Mactan Cebu there is huge developments ongoing which means every month something new seems to appear. Planning ahead then double checking everything is the only way to go with "where you want to go".

Things I haven't thought of - The forums are a great source to find out where to go or things to be aware of e.g. Sinulog in Cebu is a great festival but at the same time it bogs down the whole city so travelling around on the days that the events are being run can become time consuming. Same goes for most towns and cities as there is pretty much at least several festivals in the Philippines every month so knowing where they are and when to go is a must if nearby if you want to experience some of the local culture and events. At the same time if your planning on going somewhere else you really need to know where to avoid. Also remember the hotel reception is also a good source of things you haven't thought of but i generally talk to barmen and receptionists personally as they know what is worth visiting. A few smiles and a general chat often go a long way.

A few quick travel tips that may save your life

Firstly make sure your health insurance covers for hospital access as often they want cash up front or a chargeable card. As most internal insurance companies repay after the event. So a good credit card is worth having even if you don't use it for medical emergencies.

Don't wear lots of jewellery or anything that isn't essential for your trip snatchers operate all over the Philippines and removing the temptation could also save ruining your holiday vacation.

When using taxis always make sure they put the meter on and text the registration to a friend. Make it very obvious to the driver as it will reduce your risk of robbery but also if something else happens in the evening it also creates a trail of where you last were.

Tourists are generally overcharged as they are seen as an easy target. Spend a bit of time on the forums and ask a few questions relating to your trips including prices as no doubt some people have been lately to where your looking. Also remember tour operators and hotels are also looking for their percentage so forums where advice is free could work to your advantage as well as the fact a lot of Expat's generally know people to get you discount or at the "local" price.

Market areas are always good to buy the souvenirs from as they are often one third of the price you will find at resorts and the airport. Another thing to talk to your hotel receptionist about. When visiting the markets though bring a minimal amount of money with you as its a high risk area for bag snatching.

Finally I would just like to say that the Philippines is not as bad as its seen in the world media although there are many frustrating things going on here generally its a great place to visit and the people are very friendly.

Matt Wilkie is an Expat who originally arrived in the Philippines nearly three years ago. An experienced engineer and surveyor specializing in project and asset management in the UK. Has adapted to the new environment in the Philippines offering consulting services for a wide range of topics and working towards building a strong Expat community in the Philippines. This led to the development of TropicalPenpals.com a website which has literally a constantly growing collection of useful insights and information on life in the Philippines from someone who is already living and experiencing life within the county of the Philippines. I welcome you to join me at:- tropicalpenpals.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Wilkie

Stag Weekends in Barcelona

Last call to feel free and independent, one last weekend of fun before growing up and settling down. Stag weekends have become more and more popular over the last few years. The recipe is pretty simple, but requires a few key ingredients: fellow blokes, lots of booze and a great location. The latter is undoubtedly crucial, as no party (let alone an entire weekend away from home) can pop without the perfect place and its surroundings.

There is a good motive if hundreds and hundreds of Britons opt to spend their holidays in Spain every year - sunny weather, great food and fantastic spots generate an Invincible Armada of fun. Let's face it, nobody parties like the Spanish! Thus, what are you waiting for? Grab your sunglasses and head off to Barcelona, the European capital of fun! When there, you can participate in all kinds of activities for stag weekends. It is the perfect position for a city, being on the coast with lots of beautiful beaches - sea, sand and sun all season long. On the other hand, there are a lot of museums and historic sights in Barcelona - The Foundation Joan Miro, the Picasso Museum and additionally the spectacular Sagrada Familia church are among the best, and let's not ignore the peculiar Erotic Museum, which might be exactly what you require for your stag weekend in Barcelona.

Also, a very good alternative is to just take a walk down one of the ramblas and see what is happening - it will not take you long to uncover something to do there! And if you are lucky enough to be able to get tickets, going to see one of FC Barcelona's football matches is always a great pick to hang out with the guys. At night, enjoy everything the city has to offer, from great restaurants (do not expect to have dinner before 11pm!) to bars and fancy nightclubs!

Check out some ideas for adventure stag weekends and take a look at some useful tips for organising stag weekends!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sammy_Jacks

Difference Between Touring Holidays and Resort Holidays?

When they go on holiday a large percentage of people will be looking to take time off away from the stresses of work and life back at home, and treat their partner or whole family to a welcome break away for a week or two. Some families may not mind where they go to as long as the resort is family-friendly, has a swimming pool for the kids and plenty of space on the beach to lounge on. Indeed, those few ingredients can make the perfect holiday for many people.

The trouble with staying in one place is that you may miss out on the many sights and activities that are available in your chosen destination. You can almost always get much more out of your holiday by exploring a little. Some people may do this by hiring a car, but not everyone has a valid driving license or fancies the idea of driving on a different side of the road and in an unfamiliar place. This is where touring holidays can help.

On a touring holiday you will be able to see all the sights and different destinations that you may not have seen on a traditional resort holiday. And because your travels will be organised by experienced tour guides you'll also be able to learn interesting facts whilst on the coach and at your destinations.

If you are planning a holiday to a large country that has many areas of interest a touring holiday offers you a chance to see them all without the stress of driving cross-country or arranging your own itinerary. Indeed a touring holiday can often be the most relaxing way to see the many different aspects of your chosen destination, and can be the best solution for people who are looking for more from their holiday than just sun-worshipping at the beach.

With many different countries available to choose from when considering a touring holiday you can easily find something that appeals to you, whether it is a touring holiday of an individual country, such as France, or perhaps a selection of countries, such as a tour all over Europe. Considering the value you can get from a touring holiday you could see and do so much more than a traditional resort holiday. So if you're after something a bit different and more varied this year make sure you consider touring holidays on a coach.

Escorted tours are proving to be very popular alternatives to the typical resort holiday, with Coach Breaks in a wide range of destinations you could easily find the perfect holiday for you this summer.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_S_Longworth

London Sights With a Remarkably Low Price

With tourism statistics on the decline in the British capital, foreign visitors are in a perfect position to capitalize on offers from numerous London sightseeing destinations this summer. A cash-strapped European economy and airline-industry fallout from the Volcanic Ash crisis of several months ago will result in fewer visitors, and less money, flowing into the capital during the summer holidays.

While this is nothing short of disastrous for hoteliers, restaurateurs and tourism development bureaucrats, it should provide a welcome break for everyday Londoners and the average foreign tourist. Less crowding in public parks and major shopping centres, an ebb in pedestrian traffic on Westminster bridge and, god willing, shorter queues down the pub during World Cup.

Major attractions such as Madame Tussaud's and the London Eye are offering significant price reductions and rock-bottom group admission rates in the coming months in a bid for tourist Pounds, Euros and Dollars, as the case may be. This may seem like yet another symptom of the unceasing power of worldwide economic recession, but it also provides an opportunity for Britons and international tourists alike to get out and enjoy London on their own terms, and without breaking what's left of the bank.

A recent Daily Mail article reports that many hoteliers have slashed their usually exorbitant summer rates by up to 75% in order to drum up business and remedy depleted cashflows. That being said, there will be no shortage of hotels in London offering luxury rooms at two-star prices: a welcome change from running the usual Leicester Square tourist gauntlet. Foreign visitors can expect to stay in central locales for below average rates, allowing them to leisurely saunter over to Trafalgar Square or Big Ben through streets pleasantly empty with wallets surprisingly full.

For the everyday Londoner, the grand benefit here is obvious: fewer tourists more evenly spread out across the capital and, thus, posing less of a disruption to the normal run of things. Pending the arrival of the great British summer, the postponement of yet another irksome election, and the success of the England squad in South Africa, 2010 may well end up being a year to remember, though not for all the doom and gloom we might have predicted back in January.

Dimitar Sivkov writes on a range of topics, including travel, travel destination and hotel reviews. If you are going to London and you haven't yet chosen a hotel you might want to check some of the luxurious hotels in London.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dimitar_Sivkov

Feel The Silence And Tranquility At The Land Of Halong Bay

The Halong Bay is the best and most visited spot of South East Asia. You can spend most of your time in standing at one part of the yacht. Of course in the mean time you can take the snaps of the most appealing and striking panoramas. These wooden yachts will directly take you on the land of the Halong bay. At the moment you keep your foot at the isle of Halong Bay, you can feel the sense of peace and calmness that will surround you all the way at your trip.

Halong bay

As soon as you are at this exotic and calm spot of China make sure that you have planned out to get around the caves. This is the most pretty and impressive spot on this bay. In spite of the fact that this place was knocked out by the neon lights and not the natural lightening, this place is able to create a center of attention the visitors at this part of nation. The main part of this bay is the haphazard rubbish bins that are placed at every corner of this bay. You can explore the entire land of this bay on a yacht.

There is a local discotheque at this bay which serves as the prime centre for recreation to the visitors. The Casinos of this bay have proved as the main centre for amusement to many celebrities. The superstars like Enrique Iglesias, Emma Watson, Hritik Roshan, John Abrahim, Angelina Jolie and many more in this list have paid a visit to this casino and tried their hands in gambling.

Apart from the nightclubs and the discotheques you can get the pleasure from the gorgeous panoramas at this seaside. The trippers who come at this bay experience the fun and cozy moments that are offered by the beauty of the natural world. If you are also one of those people who love to spend some cozy moments away from the hectic and busy routine life then I am sure that this is a perfect place for you.

You can spend the comfortable and leisure moments with your family members and friends in the lapse of some adventure related to the natural world. This is the best spot that can provide you with the relaxing and soothing environs to enjoy your vacations. It is a romantic, quixotic and passionate spot of South East Asia. So the next time when you make a tour at China, be sure that you visit the spot and take pleasure of every second at this spot.

Recommendation in Halong bay, Vietnam:Indochina Sails

About the Author

Indochina Sails

Add: 27, A6, Dam Trau Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: 84439842362 Website: indochinasails.com

Cape Town to Simon's Town by Train

A holiday to Cape Town will provide you with a mind-spinning array of activities and sometimes it can be hard fitting everything in. But if you do happen to find yourself with a spare day and want to experience something a little out of the ordinary, why not try a little train-travel to see some of the more out-of-the-way sights of this spectacular region.

The journey from Cape Town to Simon's Town can be taken using a hop-on hop-off ticket readily purchased from the city centre station. The Southern Line Train route snakes spectacularly along the sea down to Simon's Town, hugging the coast on what must be one of the most picturesque train trips in the world.

All Aboard
Your rail adventure begins in the historic Cape Town station and you set off from the city centre towards your first stop - Observatory Station. It is the perfect opportunity to visit one of Cape Town's best-loved tourist attractions, the South African Astronomical Observatory. Spend an hour or two exploring the exhibits or taking in a star show. You may also be interested to pay a visit to the Groote Schuur Hospital where the first heart transplant was carried out by Christiaan Barnard.

In the Shadow of the Mountain
Next stop is Newlands station where you alight under the shadow of Cape Town's most iconic ambassador, Table Mountain. If you're feeling energetic, you could cancel your ticket and climb the mountain instead, but it may be better to leave that for another day and settle for some amazing photo opportunities instead. Sports nuts could also be interested in paying a visit to the famous Newlands Cricket and Rugby Stadium, just a short distance away.

The Spectacular Seaside
The scenery begins to change by your next station and soon you are arriving at the oceanside Muizenberg Station, situated almost right on the beach. Cape Town is world-renowned for its stunning beaches and laidback coastal lifestyle and Muizenberg is a perfect example. It is one of Cape Town's most popular surf beaches, so hit the waves or, if you're not a water-babe, you can try a game of putt-putt. Round off your afternoon with an al-fresco lunch at one of the many beachside cafes and then hop back on the train for the next leg of your journey.

Boutiques, Bookshops and Beaches
Your next stopping off point is Kalk Bay, where you can spend a pleasant hour or so wandering the eclectic mix of boutiques, bookshops and antique and second-hand shops. Then back on the train to Fishhoek Station where you can alight for a wander along the beach.

Simon's Town
Your final destination, Simon's Town, offers a range of activities for your enjoyment but the absolute must-do is a visit to Boulder's Beach to spend some time with the delightful locals. The beach is home to a breeding colony of penguins and you'd be hard-pressed to find a cuter community. There are also water-sports, golfing and boating to enjoy, and an early supper of fresh seafood and some delicious South African wine will round off your day nicely before heading back to Cape Town on the evening train.

Rachel Hill is a Southern Africa Travel specialist, a company specializing in luxury, tailor-made Cape Town holidays, as well as holidays to other destinations in Southern Africa. Our experienced consultants will help you design your very own luxury holiday, and will be happy to provide you with a free quote.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Hill

Cultural Places in Manila Philippines

Going around Manila is like having a glimpse of the past 500 years of Filipino history. Up to present day, there exists everyday relics of pre-Hispanic era and each of the colonization eras the Philippines have gone through in the past centuries - Spanish, American, and Japanese.

The best way to go around Manila is by jeepney, the most common mode of transportation in the entire nation. The jeepneys have very convenient stops - anywhere. Just tell the driver anytime to drop you off along his route.

Intramuros

The walled city of Intramuros is by far Manila's richest location when it comes to culture and history. Inside the walls, you can experience pre-Hispanic era, all the way through Spanish colonization and revolt and Japanese occupation. Fort Santiago and the Jose Rizal Shrine tell the story of the national hero's life through relics and artifacts. San Agustin Church and Museum features the life of the Filipino and how it evolved through the centuries.

Ride the kalesa, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, to see all the sights of Intramuros. There are also many restaurants serving traditional Filipino food. Being popular with tourists, there are also many little trinket shops so you can bring home a slice of Filipino culture.

Quiapo

Quiapo's center is the Quiapo Church, where devout people from all over the nation go. Religion is a big part of Filipino culture, and you can see in Quiapo Church the many interesting marks that make Filipino Catholicism unique. In the streets of Quiapo, see also the old houses defining mid-20th century architecture. Some houses are open for viewing, so that you can experience living in a traditional Filipino home. Check out also the flea markets and boutiques lining Rizal Avenue. They have everything from amulets dating from the pre-Hispanic era, to traditional medicinal herbs, to discounted fashion items.

The Cultural Center of the Philippines Complex

The CCP complex is one of the more modernist buildings in Manila, originally commissioned by the former Philippine First Lady Imelda Marcos, to promote and preserve Filipino art and culture.

There are galleries showing Filipino artworks, with the ultimate goal of promoting Filipino art and making it accessible to all sectors of the society. It also houses the Theatre of Performing Arts where artists both local and foreign perform. If you can catch a traditional performance, you can be acquainted with traditional forms of theatre mostly centered on Filipino songs. There is also a little theater for drama, solo recitals, and film screenings.

Manila Bay

End the evening with a leisurely walk along Manila Bay, starting from the CCP complex to Luneta Park. Manila Bay is picturesque all throughout the day, but especially stunning during sunset. Photographers, both amateur and professional, can be found along Manila Bay as the afternoon turns to night in a dramatic burst of deep reds and oranges.

As soon as night falls, you can find a variety of restaurants and bars around the area, with choices to fit every palate. You can even venture to the nearby Malate red light district for a more interesting Manila experience.

About the Author

The author manages the websites at Albuquerque Salons and Bananagrams.