Monday, February 28, 2011

The Most Romantic Hotels in the World

Whatever your background, as long as it is to do a holiday with a romantic atmosphere and issue the appropriate fee, you will find the most romantic hotels in the world. Because you certainly know how to express and appreciate the love, here is a list of the most romantic hotels in the world:

Turtle Beach Bungalows, Christophe Harbour, St. Kitts
Four pavilions with a variety of original sculptures ornaments hand built along tranquil dunes in St Kitts. In the bungalow is also designed a golf course, equipped swimming pool with terrace directly to the sea. In this place you will feel very "private", as was in the safest hiding place.

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris
At first Shangri-La hotels are built for "Prince Roland Bonaparte, grandson" Napoleon ", who resides at the hotel from 1896 to the end, 1924. Since then, around the 1930′s has carved a form of luxury apartments by an American decorator Elsie de Wolfe named.

Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, Montana
By driving a few moments from Missoula International Airport, you will be served fresh views that spoil the eye. Overlay area and mountain village ranch with extensive reach 6600 hectares.

Tswalu, Northern Cape Province, South Africa
Being in the Kalahari region, southern Africa, the sun goes down and a small fire that burns it's enough to make you fall asleep.

Cigarral el de las Mercedes, Toledo, Spain
The hotel is relatively unique because the idea of making his hotel blaze accidentally. It intentionally provides 21 rooms for its guests a place to sleep. Interior hotel is also derived from the antique stores in France, Kenya and some original furnishings handmade Soledan artists. Around the hotel there are two centuries old oak trees overlooking the historic gardens and located on the banks of the river Tagus, is very romantic to spend time here with your partner.

GoldenEye, Oracabessa, Jamaica
Since the mid-20th century, the jet-set Bohemia had gathered in GoldenEye, which is touched by the hands of the owner for two years and successfully metamorphosed from a private villa rental to the hotel with 22 rooms.

Cas'almare, Favignana, Italy
A simple cottage built of stone "tuff" gold recently converted into a hotel building. Located right on Favignana, known by the natural beauty of sea and became a major destination during the summer vacation in Italy.

new Romantic Hotels from best Hotel Reviews site.

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


Top 5 Luxury Hotels in Dubai

During your Dubai tours, it is pretty sure that you will come across plenty of wonderful hotels in which you can spend your holiday lavishly! Those sky scraping buildings with mind boggling architectures is sure to give you a jaw-dropping experience. Certainly, when it comes to luxury hotels in Dubai - it is the one that has more than any other city in the world. So, deciding which of these to stay in can prove quite challenging. But in order to help you make a more informed decision take a look at the top 5 luxury hotels in Dubai:

1) Burj Dubai Al Arab - This hotel is one with a shimmering opulence which combines the latest technology and the ultimate Arabian hospitality! This marvelous architecture is located at a short distance from the shores of the stunning Jumeirah beach. Guests can enjoy stunning views, elegantly designed lobbies, sumptuously appointed duplex suites with private business facilities and the latest in technology.

2) Atlantis - The Palm - This is a very imposing building that rises above Dubai and its coastline on what is now the largest manmade island in the world. The building comprises enough rooms to offer accommodation to over 1,500 guests with varied attractions like 16 restaurants, bistros, cafes, lounges and bars. Plus there are numerous salt and fresh water attractions that the guests can enjoy with their families and loved ones.

3) Ritz Carlton - It is located in the heart of Dubai Marina and included amongst the top 5 luxury hotels in Dubai. It's truly a lavish accommodation with elegantly furnished suits, private beach and the various treatments available in its spa. Further, for more entertainment there are also many wonderful shops a for those who are looking for a little more excitement not far away are some great outdoor adventures.

4) Oasis Beach Tower - This hotel is situated on Jumeirah Beach and as a result it has some of the best views of the surrounding area. It is made up of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom apartments with the latest technology. Hence, it ensures you a relaxing & comfortable stay. Every one of these apartments can be booked for a long or short term stays.

5) Jumeirah Emirates Towers - This hotel is situated in the centre of Dubai's commercial and business district on Sheikh Zayed Road. It has 400 spacious rooms and suites, paired with creative meeting and business facilities. The hotel also possess open sky swimming pools with inviting terraces, world class restaurants and bars, spas, private beaches and much more.

Visit http://www.dubaitourcompany.com to view the gorgeous selection of luxury hotels in Dubai at best areas. They also provide discounted Dubai tours for the experience of a lifetime!

Gary Cairns is a Travel Consultant with one of the UAE's best travel companies - One World.Safari Tours Dubai, Holiday in Dubai, Desert Tour, Dubai tour - Gary has experienced them all in Dubai and in the neighboring states. Through his writings and travels, he creates awareness for the different aspects of Dubai that people far and wide come to enjoy.

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

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Exploring Cebu Island - From the Birthplace of Catholicism to the Stunning Coastal Escapes

In the centre and a bit towards the south of Philippines sprawls a long strip of island called Cebu Island, the capital of Cebu Province set in the Central Visayas Region. Cebu City, the capital of the Cebu Island, is a commercial hub and houses a bustling international port. The Cebu Island is packed with scores of tourist attractions including great beach resorts, historical sites and diving spots.

The earliest Spanish settlement in Philippines is recorded in the Cebu City, which is also considered the oldest city of the country. Cebu City is also called the Queen City of the South, as it used to be a prosperous commercial and trade hub even in the past. A sightseeing tour in Cebu is certain to take you back to the 16th century, the time when Spanish seafarers first settled here.

Cebu City nestles many colonial buildings and religious venues influenced by the Spanish. One of the most famous religious and historical attractions here is the Magellan's Cross. It was installed under the direction of Ferdinand Magellan, following his advent to Cebu Island. Presently a new cross is exhibited at the chapel called the Kiosk, in the vicinity of the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino. The original cross is secured within another wooden cross and rests on a concrete pedestal in the heart of the Kiosk. The interior of the Kiosk's conical dome display some striking murals depicting stories of the baptism.

The next door Basilica of Santo Nino, also called Basilica Minore del Santo Nino, is considered as the oldest church in the country, with a baroque facade built in the 16th century. The Santo Nino, a statue of the Child Jesus, is enshrined here. The basilica houses a fine museum displaying antiques, statues, large rosary, Santo Nino's cloak, gifts and vestments. Cebu boasts of one of the oldest and smallest Spanish ports known as Fort San Pedro. The city is also home to Asia's birthplace of Catholicism, the Cebu Cathedral.

Mactan Island sits only a few kilometres from Cebu Island and serves as a great tourist attraction in Philippines. In Mactan you will come across a lifelike statue of Datu Lapu-Lapu holding a tribal shield and a sword. He was a daring chieftain of Mactan Island who fought with his fellowmen against the Magellan's army and suppressed them during the Battle of Mactan. The monuments Magellan Shrine and Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Mactan were built to commemorate this battle.

Mactan Aquarium in the Lapu-Lapu City in Mactan Island is an excellent place to explore a wide variety of fish and learn more about them. You will see sharks, star fish, corals, jelly fish, urchins and numerous exotic fish representing marine life from the Filipino portion of the Coral Triangle. This triangle is a territory in the Pacific Ocean and is recognized as a global hub for marine diversity.

Mactan hosts more than 70 diving spots to view thriving coral reefs. You can take a glass boat ride, scuba dive or snorkel to explore the vibrant corals, the home of myriads of elusive beings. Mactan and many islands near Cebu Island provide great beaches to sunbathe and simply relax.

Things to see and do in Cebu Island are countless, and range from sightseeing historical sites with Spanish influences to exploring the rich underwater habitats. You can easily find accommodation at an exclusive Cebu resort spa like Shangri-La's Mactan Resort and Spa Cebu. Enjoy this resort's sumptuous comforts while indulging in the warm tropical sun, turquoise sea and the dazzling white beaches in Cebu.

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.

Mactan Island Philippines - Make it Your Next Tourist Destination

History, culture, and religion, you will not find a shortage on Mactan Island. Mactan Island's legendary battle involving the renowned Portuguese conquering explorer Ferdinand Magellan and the Philippine's proclaimed hero Lapu-Lapu is but a small part of what this island truly offers. Written history started during Magellan's exploration of the Philippines. It is said that in the year 1200 A.D. that Filipinos started migrating south and inhabiting most of its islands, but of this we cannot be certain. Most of the history before 1521 A.D. is from oral and/or archaeological data, therefore unreliable at best.
Magellan found the Philippines while looking for a westward route to the Moluccus Islands, where he then ordered his ships to anchor on the shores of Homonhon Island. Magellan was then guided to Cebu where he claimed the Philippines as Spanish territory and ordered that the Philippines pay tribute to Spain's ruler Infante Carlos, Count of Molina, or Charles V. Lapu-Lapu one of two Mactan Island tribal chiefs, opposed Spanish rule and refused to pay tribute to her king. Magellan took 49 men to Mactan Island. Unfortunately Mactan Island's beautiful coral reefs which extended some 50 meters from shore would not allow Magellan to use their superior firepower on the estimated 1500 opposition. Magellan perished in the battle, and there is now a monument both celebrating Lapu-Lapu's victory, and remembering Ferdinand Magellan demise.


Attractions:

Lapu-Lapu Shrine

was built to honor Mactan Chieftain Lapu-Lapu's Heroic efforts in resisting foreign oppression. Today he is considered one of the Philippine's first national heroes. Others may call this the liberty shrine, and can be viewed for free as this is one of Mactan Island's top tourist attractions.

Magellan's Marker


is believed by some historians to be the exact location of Magellan's death. It is located near Lapu-Lapu Shrine and can also be viewed at no cost. This landmark was built in 1866 to memorialize the Portuguese explorer.

Philippine Culture Shows

are regularly performed at many of the 12 resorts spanning the island. These shows depict tribal dancing and sometimes historical reenactments of the islands history. You can easily get information on this quality entertainment from most all establishments on the island.

Open water diving and snorkeling

is the islands main focus with a dozen or more ocean sanctuaries, 30-50 meter reef walls, and beautiful white sands make this past time very appealing. Every resort specializes in diving, and can offer you a quality experience. It is recommended if you plan to scuba dive that you acquire your basic water certification before you make the trip.

Getting To Mactan Island:

Once you arrive in Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines you would need to make it to the fast ferry. All drivers in Cebu City know where this is. You can take traditional travel or hail a cab to the ferry. Prices are very reasonable, but I do suggest you barter; foreigners seem to get an abnormally high starter price. Once you arrive in Mactan you can take a cab or traditional travel to any of the 12 resorts spanning the island.


Lodging:

Cebu Beach Club

Cebu Hilton Resort and Spa

Cebu White Sands

Cordova Reef Village Resort

Costabella Tropical Beach Resort

Days Hotel Cebu

EGI Resort and Hotel

Maribago Bluewater Resort

Plantation Bay Mactan

Shangri-la's Mactan Island Resort

Tambuli Beach Club East Wing

Tambuli Beach Club West Wing

Waterfront Hotel Mactan

Food and Beverage:

Food is one of the biggest disappointments, there is not much for traditional flavors, and most of the establishments reside in your resort. When the resort gets you they plan to keep you there. I would suggest heading to Cebu if you want to see a larger selection of restaurants and bars, it's a ferry ride away, and some great fun and entertainment. Most of the time I would say trust your driver on where to go, he usually knows the best spots for your money and stomach.

About the Author

World Travel Destinations dedicated to sharing useful information on world travel spots, travel tips, vacation ideas for a single traveler or family vacations, romantic getaways and whole lot more for the online community. Check out other information on Asia Travel GuideHoneymoon Hotel In Thailand. and

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

4 Helpful Pointers to Find the Best La Union Resorts

Major activities are regularly carried out in the province like the La Union Surf Break event. If you intend to witness this kind of event, it pays to plan early and make an early hotel and resort booking.

At first glance, it appears that locating the best La Union resort for your place to stay can be a daunting task. This is specially true if you are not familiar with the place. More so, if you heavily rely on search engine results for your decision. However, locating good resorts in La Union can be rather easy. These 5 tips can justify why such a claim.

1) Get the list of accredited La Union Hotel and Resorts from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1

The DOT as part of its mandate provides accreditation to hotels and resorts. This means that a DOT accredited resort has complied with the standards set by this agency for tourism. Just search online for its official website using the keyword Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1. Remember though to check other La Union resorts outside the accredited list. There could be deserving resorts whose accreditation is not yet in force.

2) Get suggestions through social network sites and popular online forums and portals

Social network sites like Facebook and Twitter can help you find a lead for your desired La Union resort. You can make a post and/or use the built in search facility of these sites. Alternatively, look for popular Filipino or Ilocos based community forums online or portal and create threads and post your La Union resort inquiry.

3) Use search engines properly

Using the keyword "best La Union resort or resorts" may not yield the best search engine results. This is because only those optimized sites for that long tail keywork will appear in the top list. Vary your keyword search so that you can generate a more reliable list. La Union resort reviews from bloggers can be a good source of information.

4) Browse La Union's website or contact the Tourism Officer of the province

Definitely, tourism promotion is one of the main thrusts of the province of La Union. Its website alone can already provide you with relevant information (Just search online for its official website using the keyword La Union Philippines). It has also its tourism designated desk officer who can competently respond to tourism related inquiries and concerns.

The above tips should be helpful in ensuring your search for the best resorts to stay in La Union. Now you can expect an exciting trip to the province and catch a major event like the La Union Surf Break without much hassles in tow.

About the Author

For your travel guide to La Union and other areas in Ilocos, visit the site Ilocos Philippines. You will also come across other relevant information about Ilocos

Iloilo, Philippines - Top Must Visiting Tourist Attractions

Situated in the Western Visayas region, Iloilo is a province of Philippines.The localites of this province are called Ilonggos, who speak two local languages one is Hiligaynon and the other one is Kinaray-a.Fiesta is a major festival of Iloilo celebrated annually in every town of this province.It is a colorful event.As far as tourism is concerned, it is one of the major sources of its economy.

This part of Philippines offers something for the people of all ages, right from spectacular beaches to great museums, majestic churches, beautiful gardens, theme parks, shopping areas and more.Thousands of people from across the globe come to Philippines for beach vacations, as it is bursting with numerous stunning beaches.One of the sites that houses huge number of beautiful beaches in this country is Iloilo.So, make your tour to this site and enjoy the best that Philippines beaches have to offer.The top five beaches of this province are Tambaliza, Agho, Antonia and Puerto del Mar.These are the best picnicking spots offering wonderful sightseeing and many adventurous activities to enjoy.The most exciting activities, which you will surely love are snorkeling, kayaking, diving, combing and sun bathing etc.

After beaches, churches are most visited attractions in this area.People looking for divine peace mostly visit these sacred houses.You will find a lot of Spanish architecture influences over these holy buildings, which make them more attractive.

There are many churches in the province of Philippines but the most famous ones are - Santa Barbara Church, Jaro Cathedral and Miagao Church.These holy buildings are the national landmarks of the country.So, while on vacation here, must visit these historic sites of the Province.

Although Beaches and Old Churches are the most popular tourist attractions, there are many other places of interest too to visit in this region. Some of the most popular tourist spots except beaches, & churches that you must visit here include - The Bulabog Puti-an National Park, Concepcion Island, Isla de Higantes, and Old Downtown Iloilo etc.

Besides incredible sightseeing, this part of Philippines also provides many adventurous activities to its visitors.One of the best activities that draw thousands of enthusiasts here is diving. Iloilo houses numerous world famous dive sites, where visitors can have an exciting diving experience as well as can enjoy watching incredible marine life at its best.The top ranked dive sites here include - Iyang, Danao-Danao, Balbagon, Anhawan Island and Igbon Island.

So, make your vacation to this nature lover's paradise and find all that certainly make an ideal holiday.You can easily reach this part of Philippines by air, road, rails and sea ways.And for those bothering for lodging, there are many cheap to luxury hotels, motels, inns, resorts in Iloilo, which offer top class accommodation and services at best affordable price. Some of the most popular lodging options of this area include - Century 21 Hotel, Sarabia Manor and Convention Center, Highway 21 Hotel, Hotel Del Rio and Amigo Terrace etc.

About the Author

For more information on Iloilo and Accommodation please visit our website.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Whitewater Rafting in the Philippines

A Philippine whitewater rafting experience is all at once thrilling, exhilarating, exciting, and relaxing. This sport is one of the newest extreme adventures to hit the country, and one that suits its features entirely. For many years, adventure seekers bypassed the Philippines in favor of other places such as Nepal and Borneo, and the raging Philippine rivers remained untouched. But it wasn't for long. Once whitewater rafting was established, Filipinos have grown to love the sport and the places that offer it have found themselves to be new tourist spots.

Whitewater rafting in the Philippines started in 1997 when three Americans (Ned Sickles, Gary Fondren, and Dr. Bob Anderson) found the Chico River via satellite mapping and thought it could be a whitewater rafting location. They then travelled to the Cordilleras to have their first exploratory run. And from there, the rest is history.

Whitewater Rafting Locations

Several enterprising and adventurous Filipinos have realized the potential for having whitewater rafting and/or adventure packages available in their travel offerings and have thus included them in their vacation packages. The following are the locations that many people and travel adventurers go to when whitewater rafting in the Philippines:

Cagayan de Oro

It is known pretty much to the rest of the country that Cagayan de Oro is the whitewater rafting destination. There really is nothing quite like a rafting trip on the Cagayan de Oro River. Breathtaking rapids that provide adventurous thrills coupled with strikingly beautiful panoramic views of the river's rocky walls, untouched vegetation, and the sight of the resting haven of monkeys. The Cagayan de Oro River has everything that makes for a memorable experience with the awesome roar and power of water cascading over rocks and boulders.

Best Times to Go (CDO)

June to December are peak rafting seasons, but rafting season is year round.

Davao

Whitewater rafting in Davao happens in Davao River, which ranks seventh among the largest river basins I the Philippines. This river is the main natural reservoir of the aquifer in the city's jurisdiction.

The river has a total length of 143 kilometers, stretching through a good number of streams. Suawan River and Tamugan River are its main tributaries, the waters of which flow with that of the waters of the streams to which the river passes through. The minimum age for whitewater rafting in Davao is 6 years old.

Best Times to Go (Davao)

Rafting season here is all year round.

Antique

With its numerous rivers, Antique is an ideal whitewater kayaking and rafting location. Whitewater rafting happens on the Tibiao River, a river that rises on the slopes of Mt. Madja and plunges over 1,000 meters on its short run to the ocean.There is about 23 kilometers of navigable water on the river but access to upper section is difficult.

Quezon Province

Its location (only two hours away from the noise and smog of Metro Manila) make it an attractive location for rafters who want to fill their whitewater cravings. The river goes by the non-descript name Kaliwa, meaning "left" in Tagalog. It is part of the Agus river system, whose other branch is called Kanan, "right." The recent commencement of regular rafting tours on this river has allowed interested rafters or kayakers to enjoy a true wilderness experience without having to travel very far from Manila.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and LocalPhilippines will most likely feature it.

About the Author

Liee Lozano works for LocalPhilippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions. The aim of LocalPhilippines is to take you to over 7,107 destinations, which will give you that WOW experience only the Philippines and Filipinos can give.

Davao Philippines: A Place That Straddles Two Worlds

Endowed with a variety of picturesque landscapes, Davao's topography dazzles: Fruit plantations and orchid farms mantle volcano-fed hills and valleys. Virgin forests nurture rare wildlife. Coral islands lie on mirror flat water. And the country's highest peak magnificently lords over the hinterland.

Just as enchanting is its brilliant tapestry of harmony, woven from the diverse cultural threads of its people. In Davao, the contemporary fuses with the traditional as migrant settlers from all over the country co-exist in peace with a fairly large expatriate community and numerous ethnic tribes who continue to live as they did centuries ago.

It is the hub of commerce and industry in the Southern Mindanao region. Yet, to this day, Davao City continues to straddle two worlds - the new and the old.

Part of it is a flourishing metropolis of business districts, mechanized farms and cosmopolitan villages where "instant millionaires" live. And the other part is a rural landscape of hills that roll down into fertile valleys, dominated by the 2,954-meter-high Mount Apo, the grandfather of all Philippine mountains, and peopled by the Bagobo, Manobo, Mandaya, Bilaan and other ancestral tribes.

LAND OF PLENTY

"Kadayawan sa Dabaw" is Davao City's premier festival and showcases the natural and cultural bounty of the land.

A movable feast in August, the week-long merrymaking highlights the manifold tribal cultures of the region which are vividly expressed in traditional songs, dances, games and crafts. It is also on this occasion when a lively trade fair, capped by a flower-and-fruit float parade, takes place. Street dancing and popular entertainment complete the celebration.

Agriculture-based industries thrive in the Davao region. A major exporter of bananas, citrus, mangosteen and other tropical fruits, it is also the biggest producer of cultured flowers in the country. Its surrounding waters are rich sources for commercial fishing. The world's largest city in terms of land area, Davao covers all of 244,000 hectares.

KING OF THE HEAVENS

The Philippine Eagle has the countenance of regal majesty - snowy white plumes dappled with gray, a distinct crested head matched with a pair of sharp eyes and strong curved beak, a powerful eight-foot wingspan, and lethal preying claws. An endangered species, the world's largest eagle has found refuge at the Philippine Eagle Research and Nature Center in the Malagos rainforest in Calinan, 45 minutes away from downtown Davao.

It was here where the first ever Philippine Eagle was born in captivity. Aptly named Pag-asa (Hope), she is testament to how seriously Davao protects its environmental heritage. To this day, more eaglets are bred and nurtured at the sanctuary.

Only too soon, the Philippine Eagle will take its rightful place in the sky. Soaring proud and unafraid as King of the Heavens.

QUEEN OF THE RAINFOREST

On the slopes of Mount Apo was discovered the waling-waling, an orchid of exceptional attributes - with full, velvety petals tinged in royal colors of purple, red and yellow.

So delicate is this stunning bloom that it can only thrive on fresh and balmy air. The waling-waling (Vanda sanderiana) has since been successfully transplanted from its natural environment and cultivated in many of Davao's flower farms. Retailing at several hundred dollars a plant, the Queen of the Rainforest has become an attractive business proposition.

ISLAND FLAVORS

Davao's claim to culinary fame is grilled "bariles" (tuna) jaw dipped in soy sauce and "kalamansi" (native lemon). The marketplace, abundant with seafoods, meats and fresh tropical fruits, is the best place to savor local flavors.

At the Sta. Ana Wharf, Luz Kinilaw Place is famous for its local version of the Japanese sashimi - bite-size chunks of raw fish marinated in vinegar, chili pepper and other spices. For more gustatory experiences, drop by the restaurant row along F. Torres St. and Magsaysay Park. Also check out Fiesta Dabaw and Zugba Restaurant at Apo View Hotel and Yellow Fin Restaurant at Ecoland.

ISLAND ADVENTURE

One simply does not get bored in Davao. There are just so many options for a pleasurable stay. Try cultural immersion. Or farm visit. Or golf. Or trek. Or scuba dive. Or shop. Or simply laze around the islands and watch the world go by. The possibilities just go on and on! At the T'boli Weaving Center, watch the colorful tribe of bola women as they handloom the intricate tinalak fabric. More tribal art and material culture can be gleaned at the nearby Davao Museum.

Brassware, ethnic trinkets and shellcraft make great souvenirs. Splurge and indulge at the Aldevinco Shopping Center on CM Recto Street, Nieva's Arts and Crafts in Lanang, Precy's Creation and Handicrafts in Bajada, and Handmade Treasures at Gaisano Mall.

Orchids, whether cut or potted, are also good buys. Check out the Mindanao Flower Market (Minflo Mart) in Barangay Pampanga. For more farm visits, go to the Bago Oshiro Experimental Station in Mintal, Derling Worldwide Orchid Corporation in Buhangin, Greenhills Orchid Farm in Catalunan Pequeo, Puentespina Orchid Garden in Agdao, or the Malagos Garden Resort (Orchid Farm) at the Baguio district in Calinan. At the Gap Fruit Farm, one can gorge on Davao's famous sweet pomelos and oranges.

Two of the country's most popular 18-hole golf courses are found in Davao. Lanang Golf and Country Club has its fairways laid out in an estate lush with tropical fruits while Apo Golf and Country Club in Dumoy is set on a vast coconut plantation with natural hazards. For those with less time to fore, the 9-hole New Davao City Golf Club in Matina fits the tee. Nightlife entertainment is provided by music bars, discotheques and the casino, which also serves good food and offers live musical performances.

Filipinos do not simply provide the guest with a place to rest or park their luggage, they also share the best of what they have. This warm, effusive brand of hospitality is what distinguishes Philippine hotels from the others (Philippine Department of Tourism).

About the Author

Did you find this article about Davao Philippines useful? If you want to know more about Philippines travel locations , please visit http://philippinestravelassistant.blogspot.com

Friday, February 18, 2011

3 Basic Guidelines For Property Hunting in Thailand

Here I will be giving my thoughts on where to start looking once you have decided to buy property in Pattaya, Thailand. There are so many condominium complexes, apartment building and housing projects being built, proposed and planned in Pattaya today that it can become somewhat over whelming, and at times a job to know where to start looking.

Firstly I'll give my insights on how to make finding the right property in Pattaya as easy as possible. Now before embarking on the property hunt, you should have a clear set of goals of what you want your future home or investment property to consist of, make sure you know at least the three main essentials:

  • Budget
  • Location
  • Property Type

I know this may sound obvious in the extreme but after working in the Pattaya real estate market for many years it is surprising how many people start contacting estate agents before they have a clear idea of what they actually want and where they want it! What makes the task even harder here in Pattaya is that fact that Pattaya has such a broad range of properties on offer with an even broader range of prices.

You can find a one bedroom condo for 1 million Baht or one for 10 million. Houses range from under 1 million and climb all the way to 100 million Baht and beyond! And although Pattaya feels relatively small once you know your way around, it is still large and diverse enough to have dramatically reflecting price differences. A three bedroom house with a pool and large garden might cost around 11 million Baht in the Huy Yai Area, but would cost close to 30 million on Pratumnak Hill.

Another thing I find interesting with potential property investors or holiday home buyers is the lack of research they put into location, and even as I cringe when I hear agents say it:

'Location Location Location' truly is key!

I would first advise anyone seriously looking to buy property in Pattaya or the surrounding areas is to have a real good look around and try to get a good feel for the different areas. Go and spend a day on Jomtien Beach and then return again in the evening to see how it compares. If it's a rental investment your thinking about ask yourself if you'd be happy holidaying or renting in this area? Take time to explore the different areas and see what's going on and all times of the day and night!

What to buy? Again this will depend on what you want from and your reasons for buying a property in Pattaya. There are also legal issues to take into account when buying property in Thailand for example:

You can own an apartment in your own name as a foreigner but a house or land must be bought and owned in a Thai name or a Thai company name. This is something any decent estate agent will be able to advise you on and I intend to cover this subject in greater detail in my next article.

Obviously agents want to make a sale and help you find the right property, just make sure before hand you know what that is. I would even suggest going to an agent with the three boxes to be ticked and see what they have on offer.

For example;

Max Budget? 5 Million Baht.

Location? As close to the beach as possible!

Property Type? At least a one bedroom apartment.

Above all else, buying a home or investing in property in Pattaya is an exciting experience and should always be fun! It needn't be a chore or headache but be prepared to do a little homework and a lot of legwork and finding your dream home will become a reality.

I really hoped you liked this short article please visit
PattayaPropertyforsale!

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


Phuket Favorite Spot for Holiday Villa

There are one saying that the one place that you must visit before you die is the Phuket island. The island lying down on the Andaman sea of the coast of Thailand. Phuket island has been hailed for many years as the interesting tourism destination of the world. Fantastic view of the beach combine with spectacular scenery of the sunset and also the warm feeling of the blue sea will awaits you in one of the Phuket popular beach. The island is the perfect way to have a good time for you, your family or love ones in the combination of perfect silky soft white palm lined beaches, kind hospitality and valued accommodation!

This is no coincident since Phuket has so much potential as a great tourism destination. Phuket has among the most beautiful beaches in the world surrounded with lavish tropical landscapes that surely would attract many tourists. There are so many beautiful beaches such as the Hat Patong. The beach located only around 15 kilometers from the city town. This is one of the most developed beaches in this island. It has so many excellent places to have some fun such as the sport courts, shopping stores, and many other recreational options for the tourists.

From the beginning this area has the tourism as their main source of income and has transpormed the island into one of the wealthiest province in Thailand. The west coast of Phuket was hit severely by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, but almost no evidence of the damage now remains. The island enjoy the popularity as the most sought after travel destination. Most beaches are on the west coast, with Phuket Town to the south-east and the airport in the north enjoy the benefit.

Phuket also has living cultural life and off course, dynamic nightlife. To support the tourism the island provides many kind of accommodation for all guests. From accommodation for backpacker's, a hotels and resort even a Phuket villa are available. But the Phuket villas are the advisable accommodation if you want to have vacation in Phuket with your family or if you are on a honeymoon trips. Phuket has many different Villas to rent, most of them are beachfront Villas with some of them even have private beach.

The location of these Phuket villas are around the top beaches. They vary in size and features. From luxurious villas to small one or two bedrooms villas are available. You can also find intimate Villas perfect for honeymoon retreat. Do you want to get close to the nature? How about a small tree house villa? There are many back to nature Villas around Phuket. The villas are equipped with highest standard facilities which matched to a five star resorts and off course an internet connection on every room. Each Villa offering many different features and activities to allow you enjoys the best side of Phuket. You can learn more information about Phuket Villas on Tourism Thailand website. Come and experience Phuket your selves.

About the Author

Want to find out more about Phuket Villas, then visit Michael Bintaro's site on how to choose the best Vacation Villas in Phuket for your needs.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Best Family All Inclusive Vacations

Are you a typical family with hard working parents and a couple of kids?

If your idea of a perfect holiday doesn't involve cooking or cleaning an all inclusive family vacation resort is the way to go!

All inclusive family vacations come in many shapes and sizes -- there is one to suit the most discerning among us!

1) Take a cruise. This is perhaps top on my list of best all inclusive family vacations. On most cruises, you can eat to your hearts content. Many cruise ships even sell postcards to mail back to your friends featuring pics of gourmet meals! Kid friendly cruises such as Disney and Carnival also have pizza, hot dogs and milkshakes galore!

2) All inclusive beach resorts are also a hit with my family. Lots of fun activities for the kids on the beach while mom and dad relax or join in. Swim, snorkel, learn to dive, water-ski, or sail a sailboat.

Afterwards, there's no need for mom to cook! The family can enjoy a variety of beautifully presented meals pool side or in the hotel dining room. My favourite all inclusive family vacation resorts include premium drinks for mom and dad too!

Consider Mexico or Dominican Republic for choices that are very kind to your budget.

3) Family all inclusive ski vacations are rare but do exist and can include airfare or other transportation, meals, ski lessons, lift tickets and entertainment. If you like outdoor winter sports this kind of vacation can't be beat!

Can't ski but want to learn how? Don't worry, it is fun to learn and every ski resort has qualified instructors for group or private lessons.

Non skiers can enjoy the steaming outdoor hot tubs, restaurants overlooking the ski hill and roaring fireplaces by which you can enjoy the view while the kids ski!

4) Family focussed educational or adventure tours are another great all inclusive family vacation option. Friends of ours went on a week long discovery tour of the Galapagos Islands, and haven't stopped talking about it.

Other possibilities include farm vacations, cruise and learn sailboat trips for families, and all inclusive trips to big league sport games or car races.

If you don't see something that catches your fancy, check with your travel agent. Many travel agents are aware of all inclusive trip for you to the destination of your choice.

Sri Lanka Top Beaches - Iconic Attractions of Sri Lanka Tour Packages

Sri Lanka the word brings the images of lashing waterfalls, enchanting beaches, exotic wildlife parks and sanctuaries, captivating culture and more of all pleasant climatic conditions that make Sri Lanka truly a tropical paradise on earth. It is amazingly beautiful and due to its diverse attractions this country is visited by tourists in great number from across the world.

Well there are great many attractions in Sri Lanka whose enigmatic charm and splendor never fail to impress the heart of the visitors. It astounding beauty is beyond the scope of words to describe and cast the perfect picture on the mind of the readers. So it is advisable if you want to see the true beauty of Sri Lanka, plan for tour availing one from the many best Sri Lanka Holiday Packages.

But apart from all, most of the tourists who come for Sri Lanka tour lose themselves in the pristine surrounding of the natural splendor where they have lots of fun and enjoyment with families, friends and dear ones. Well beside all the wonderment lets see the below listed beaches which are said to be the most out standing beaches of Sri Lanka and the iconic attractions of tourists and beach lovers.

Hikkaduwa
Located a few hours drive from Colombo, Hikkaduwa is one of the most favored and most beautiful beach in Sri Lanka that's never fail to impressed the heart of the visitors. The gleaming beaches dotted with coastal palm trees, exotic beach resort and the scintillating surrounding truly make it a paradise for beach lovers. It is the ideal place for tourists to enjoy fun-filled water sports and activities as well for nature lovers it is not less than a paradise as they can enjoy view of the abundant corals and tropical fishes.

Trincomalee
Trincomalee beach is beyond words to describe and so it the reason that visitors who come here takes back home remarkable memories to relish in forever. The 18th Century Naval Hero of Great Britain describes Trincomalee as the finest harbour in the world. It is ideal place for tourists who love to enjoy fun-filled beach activities, sun bath and beach vacations in Sri Lanka.

Weligama
It is one of the most interesting and picturesque beach in Sri Lanka. Weligama which means Sandy Sweep bay is a quite fishing town, which offers vacationers to enjoy memorable time away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. It is amazingly beautiful and so tourists never fail to spend maximum time here at Weligama basking in the sun and enjoying the panoramic view of the surrounding.

Apart from all these, there are many other picturesque beaches in Sri Lanka which are worth to visit and explore. Bentota, Mount Lavinia, Unawatuna, Weligama, Tangalle, Nilaveli, Arugam Bay, Casuarina Beach, Trincomalee, etc are other picturesqaue beaches in Sri Lanka which are also an incredible part of Sri Lanka Tour Packages. So what are you waiting for too? Book one best travel package and enjoy vacations in this picturesque Sri Lanka and take back home remarkable memories to relish in forever.

Angelina Sharma is an eminent analyst and writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. She has authored may books on tour guide Srilanka Travel Packages and Tour Package Sri Lanka.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Cleveland and the Emerald Necklace

In the past, Cleveland, Ohio was the deemed "the mistake by the lake," but this is no longer the case. Over the last few decades, the city of Cleveland has worked really hard to turn around the city's image. While the city may still be the butt of many jokes around the country, there is actually a lot the city has to offer. For those who are into budget travel, the city with the Emerald Necklace may be a good idea.

The Emerald Necklace

If you haven't looked closely at a map, you may not have realized that the city of Cleveland, Ohio is surrounded by a pretty spectacular parks system. This "ring of green" around the city is commonly referred to as the "Emerald Necklace," one of the wonders of the city. The Cleveland Metroparks system is actually one of the largest continuous parks throughout a city in all of America. This little known "gem" in Cleveland is just one of the reasons to travel here.

Cleveland for Budget Travel

Here are some other reasons to consider Cleveland for your next vacation.

  • Sports - From the Cleveland Browns to the Indians to the Cavs, there are many sports events in the city. Known by some as "Believeland," the city is well known for rooting for their sports teams.
  • Inexpensive - Some may call it "cheap," but any way you look at it, you are going to spend less money when traveling to Cleveland than if you went to someplace like Chicago or New York City. Even though the price is low, there is still a lot to do.
  • Theaters and Art - There are many theaters and art museums throughout the city, meaning there is something for you to do no matter what you're into.
  • The Lake - Whether it's swimming, boating, fishing or other water activities, Lake Erie provides fun and adventure for those who travel to Cleveland.
  • Rock and Roll - Last but certainly not least, there's the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Some would say this is the highlight of the city, but if you love Rock and Roll, you're going to want to spend at least a day or two here.

As you can see from this very short list, there are quite a few things to do once you're in Cleveland. When you add in the fact that it's so inexpensive to get there (and stay there), you can see why so many people are heading there for vacation.

K. Paul Mallasch is the publisher of Cleveland Free Press and Ohio Jobs Info where you can find out more about the wonderful city of Cleveland, Ohio.

Guangdong Provincial Museum – Showcase of Antiquity in Guangzhou

With a history that can rival the splendours of Egypt, China is a timeless land with a colourful tale of many millenia and many ancient sites that can kindle your curiosity. But it would be nigh impossible to cover all that in one tour as China is not exactly a small place; and stretches the definition of a big place quite so much. For to make up for that, every city in China boasts a museum with a vast collection which brings together artefacts from the far reaches of the land to one place. The widely known port city of Guangzhou with its own intriguing past is home to one of the best historic collections of the country, housed at the Guangdong Provincial Museum.

Located at the original site of the Zhongshan University, the Guangdong Provincial Museum is today a tourist favourite in Guangzhou. Even if it is named as a provincial museum, the museum of Guangdong is today a leading cultural and historical showcase that relates to the heritage of China, and also happens to be a good place to learn about the history of this wonderful land in vivid detail. The museum houses a collection of more than 100,000 artefacts of pottery, bronze, and stone along with ancient art, manuscripts and fossils.

Originally the exhibit spaces of the Guangdong Provincial Museum were made up of four exhibits relating to Guangdong history, rare animals, rare coins and woodcarvings. However the museum was expanded later with many more interesting exhibits to captivate the visitor. The exhibition gallery that relates to Guangdong history is a must-visit to any history buff as this gallery has a rich collection of exhibits relating to the ancient human settlements of Guangdong, artefacts from the Bronze Age settlements, and many relics from the Han dynastic period of imperial China's infancy. There is also a vast collection of exquisite porcelain figurines and objects, as well as a collection of documents, manuscripts, paintings and other objects of interest dating back to the semi-colonial days of Guandong, when it was known as Canton in the west.

If you're staying at any Guangzhou hotel you can just take the metro to visit the museum. Guangzhou suites which offer great value for money like the Shangri-La Hotel, Guangzhou is available all through the year, so it's just a matter of checking in early and planning your visit to observe, enjoy and learn at the Guangdong Provincial Museum.

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.

Friday, February 11, 2011

Philippine Road Trip Destinations

One way to discover the beauty of the Philippines is by road-tripping, either by driving your own car or using public transport to take you to one tourist attraction to another. Hitting the road is ideal on weekends, when traffic is light. There are lots of destinations to choose from in the archipelago of 7,107 islands, all you need is a travel guide, comfortable clothing, a handy camera, and spare cash to buy souvenirs and trinkets.

In the island of Luzon alone, there are countless options on where to go and discover the Philippines. Here are some of the recommended road trip destinations in the country.

Manila
A simple road trip in the Philippines usually starts in Manila, the country's capital. The city is a favorite among travelers as it is rich in cultural heritage. Turn back the hands of time and discover Manila's Spanish influence with a trip to Intramuros (Walled City), wherein some of the oldest churches, including Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church are located. Other points of interest in Manila are the Rizal Park, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the Malacañang Palace.

Laguna
Located southeast of Metro Manila, Laguna is also a perfect road trip destination because it hosts numerous man-made and natural attractions. If you want to relive your childhood memories, a trip to the Enchanted Kingdom amusement theme park in Sta. Rosa is highly recommended. However, if you want to get closer to nature, head straight to Valesol Haven in Los Baños. Laguna is also famous for Pagsanjan Falls, Mt. Makiling, Taytay Falls, and wood carvings and papier mache of Paete.

Pampanga
The province of Pampanga is a haven for foodies. Known as the Culinary Capital of the Philippines, Pampanga is famous for various dishes from traditional to exotic ones. It is also an ideal place to rekindle your religious spirit, as the province is home to some of the country's beautiful churches such as Betis Church in Guagua. If you're lucky, you will witness some of Pampanga's colorful events such as the Philippine International Hot-Air Balloon Fiesta every February and the Giant Lantern Festival every December.

Ilocos Region
A notable travel destination in northern Philippines is Ilocos Sur, which is considered a treasure trove of history and culture. Its provincial capital, Vigan, was declared a World Heritage Site due to its carefully preserved Hispanic houses and cobble-stoned streets. Meanwhile, Ilocos Norte also deserves a visit. In Pagudpud, relax and enjoy its white-sand beaches while experience entering a different dimension in La Paz Sand Dunes.

Baguio
Another great weekend retreat destination is Baguio City, the summer capital of the Philippines. Founded by the Americans in 1900, Baguio depends on the tourism industry to boost its coffers. Among its renowned tourist attractions include the Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and the Mansion. The city is also popular for its strawberry farms and horseback riding sites. Bargain clothes and various sweets are also a hit in Baguio.

Road-tripping in the Philippines is not only confined in Luzon. There are also amazing tourist attractions in Visayas and Mindanao like Cebu, Leyte, Bohol, and Davao to name a few.

Local Philippines is your travel buddy. We have information about the destinations, how to get there, what to do while in the area and more! Destinations in the beaches or in the mountains, destinations under water, destinations right at the middle of the urban hub, name it and Local Philippines will most likely feature it.

About the Author

Allan Leandro Merin has been writing for a living since 2008. After leaving a career at a daily electronic crew newspaper, he joined a web development outsourcing company and linked up with Local Philippines, the most comprehensive online directory of Philippine destinations, events, and attractions.

Visit the Top Attractions in Manila Philippines - Museums and Churches

Manila, a capital city of Philippines is the world's eleventh largest metropolitan area located on the eastern shores of Manila Bay.It is also the chief seaport of the country.This city hosts everything right from incredible attractions to exciting nightlife, shopping, sports and more.With such amazing tourist attractions and activities, Manila ensures a lot of enjoyment and entertainment to its visitors.The major tourist attractions of this city are museums and churches.

If you are on vacation with your family in Manila then there is no other better option to visit than Museums.The list of Manila museums includes - the Cultural Center, the Financial Center of the CCP Complex, Ayala on Makati Avenue, the National Museum, the San Agustin Museum, Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Lopez Memorial and the University of Santo Tomas Museum. Out of these the most famous ones are National Museum, San Agustin Museum and University of Santo Tomas.

The National Museum was established in 1901 as the Insular Museum of Natural History, Ethnology, and Commerce. This mainly exhibits artworks of 19th-century that is related to the entire history of Manila city.San Agustin Museum features ecclesiastical art collection with old paintings of saints and colonial religious art.This is an old monastery attracting large number of people.While University of Santo Tomas exhibits many species of flora and fauna of entire Philippines.

Churches are the other major attractions of the city.People looking for divine peace mostly visit these holy sites.There are many famous churches in the city but the most popular and internationally known one is San Agustin Church. It was founded during the Spanish colonial period, hence this is considered as the oldest church and is also claimed to be the oldest building among all the surviving buildings in the Philippines.The Philippine government has declared it National Historical Landmark and the UNESCO has declared it the World Heritage Site.Therefore, people from across the world come to see this wonderful church.

After the sightseeing, the best activity that every visitor can enjoy here includes shopping.Manila hosts number of shopping malls and market streets that are mostly found in the areas of Malate and Ermita.Apart from shopping malls and shops, you can find the first-rate clubs and bars too in these areas that offer exotic nightlife.

The main part of any vacation is lodging.People first look for comfortable accommodation and then go for sightseeing.While on vacation here, you need not trouble much for appropriate accommodation as there are many hotels, motels, inns and resorts in the city ranging from cheap to luxury.If you are with tight budget then must choose to stay into one of the cheap hotels, this way you can reduce much of your expenditure.Unlike, if you can spend lavishly to enrich your vacation then lodging in one of the finest luxury hotels is the best option.The major luxury hotels of the city are mostly found in downtown area.

About the Author

For more information on Vacations to Manila and Filipino Tourist Attraction please visit our website.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Top Places to Visit in Taiwan

Taiwan was called Ilha Formosa which means Beautiful Island by the Portuguese when they landed there in 1544. Taiwan may be small in geographical size but there is a wide range of things to do and see while vacationing there. In this article you will discover some of the top places to visit in Taiwan.

Taipei: The Cosmopolitan Capital of Taiwan

Taiwan's capital, Taipei, is a "must stop" destination for all who travel there. Long ago, the "Taipei Basin" was inhabited by an Aboriginal tribe called the Ketagelan. Later, Taipei became an important port for the trading of tea under the occupation of the Han Chinese. Finally, the city became the island's capital.

No one can visit the Taiwan's capital without a visit to Taipei 101. According to the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, Taipei 101 is the world's tallest skyscraper. The building has a total of 106 floors, five being underground and 101 above ground. Thus, the name Taipei 101. Since Taiwan is located in an area that is subject to typhoons and earthquakes, the skyscraper was designed to withstand both of them.

The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is another popular attraction in Taipei. It is also known as the National Taiwan Democracy Memorial Hall although there has been controversy over the renaming. This great monument to China's former president Chiang Kai-Shek is located near the Gate of Great Centrality and Perfect Uprightness. The main structure has white walls with an octagonal roof of blue tiles that rises up to 70 meters above the ground. The Memorial Hall contains a library and museum. It is surrounded by a park where a beautiful pond is located..

Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan's largest lake with a surface area of nearly 8 km squared. It is the home of the Aboriginal tribe called the Thao. In the middle of the lake is an island that is considered to be sacred by the tribe. Because of this, the Aboriginal Cultural Village has been constructed near the lake. At the cultural village, visitors can learn about the history and development of the Thao tribe as well as enjoy the scenic beauty.

Taipei and Sun Moon Lake are just a couple of the wonderful tourist destinations that vacationers can find in Taiwan. Whether you visit the big city or head out to the countryside, you are sure to exclaim as the Portuguese did so many years ago that Taiwan is, in fact, the Beautiful Island.

About the Author

Visit U.S. Passport Service Guide for information on how to get a Taiwan visa and to watch Taipei Taiwan vacation videos.

Exotic Beach Vacations In Jamaica Villas

Jamaica villas in the Caribbean are quite well known these days for the exotic and luxurious beach vacations they offer. But it wasn't like this around 60 years ago, when most people used to stay at hotels. But once the villa concept caught on in the 1950s, it quickly turned into a popular trend and now it is an organized industry and a big part of the local economy.

There are Jamaica villas available for travelers of all stripes, from cheap ones for budget tour groups to massive palatial ones for those in need of a luxurious vacation. Some of these palace-like villas are often used by wealthy vacationers for extended stays or winter getaways. Such a villa may have everything from its own private beach to a helipad.

Every villa is well-staffed and will come with a butler, chef and a chauffeured vehicle. Housekeeping will naturally take care of all the household work. Families with children who need supervision will be provided a nanny, if required.

For breakfast, the chef can serve up everything from a full Southern breakfast with bacon, ham and eggs. Or a continental breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice, pancakes, muffins and Belgian waffles, or even mac & cheese for the kids. For lunch and dinner, have the chef prepare all kinds of exotic Caribbean fare using local produce and fresh seafood including jerk chicken, curry goat and coconut shrimps.

Guests can enjoy outdoor dinners in the evening with a great view and balmy weather. The entire day can be spent lazing around the pool or terrace and have the butler bring tall, cool drinks poolside. Enjoy the ocean views, the pristine white sand beaches and soak in the sun.

Those who would like to do a bit of sight seeing or enjoy the entertainment and activities nearby can head for the nearest resort towns. Speaking of which, travelers should choose a villa in one of the holiday resort towns. The most famous of them all is Montego Bay, which is Jamaica's second largest city and a port too, not to mention the biggest tourist hotspot.

There are a large number of villas available for rent within a half hour distance from Montego Bay. Guests can enjoy everything from water sports to golfing and visiting old Churches and art galleries. Other popular locations include Negril, Ocho Rios and Discovery Bay. Obviously, it's hard to recommend one over the other, but since most visitors end up coming back again for annual vacations, it's not really much of a problem.

Consider a villa on a hilltop overlooking Montego Bay and the mountains, with lush gardens and swaying palms providing cover for the outdoor pool. There'll be a sundeck and patio, along with a barbeque grill. Separate quarters are provided for staff.

4-6 guests can expect at least 2 bedroom suites with separate living areas and bathrooms. For big groups, Jamaica villas with 6-7 bedrooms spread over two to three floors are also widely available. Don't forget to ask for airport transfers, because these are usually included in the price.

Since their inception, they have created and sustained an exceptionally high level of expertise, experience, selection of luxury villa and attention to detail.

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

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

The Tsitsikamma Forest

Submerge yourself in the Tsitsikamma forest and experience an Africa that you may never have known existed. With a profusion of plant life and abundant water as well as scenic and adventure outings, this forest is a living splendour that has to be visited and experienced to be believed.

The Garden Route Wonderland is our exquisite coastal green belt, one which invites little forays inland to visit quaint towns like Oudtshoorn, dubbed the 'feather capital of the world'. Visit a prestigious ostrich farm there to watch these large birds strut their soft, glamorous stuff.
The Garden route wonderland is available to book online onbookmyroom-sa.com

The Tsitsikamma forest is home to plenty of adventurous activities... from the world's highest commercial bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge, to the Storms River Adventure centre, the Tsitsikamma canopy tour, The Tsitsikamma Waterfall Zipline adventure, scuba diving sites and the Woodcutters Journey, as well as plenty of hiking trails, of which the Otter Trail and Dolphin Trails are the most famous.

Nature-based activities abound and there is plenty of bird life. The coastline is home to a very delicately balanced marine eco-system and some of the finest whale and dolphin viewing sites.

BookMyRoom-SA now offers the new package Garden Route Splendour from the moment we depart the Friendly City of Port Elizabeth, you'll see and feel the changing landscape…and why we call it The Garden Route. Our leisurely journey takes us through the cool, calming Tsitsikamma National Park, the charming coastal town of Knysna with its well established fine arts and crafts centre.

The Tsitsikamma region of the eastern Cape stretches from the Bloukrans river in the west, to Eerste Rivier to the east and on the north from the Tsitsikamma mountains to the Indian ocean in the south.

The Tsitsikamma National Park forms part of the greater Garden Route National Park. The area is covered by large areas of indigenous forest as well as commercial plantations and fynbos. There are also many rivers in the area, which have carved deep gorges as they wind their way from the plateau to the sea. The climate is mild all year round making this a great destination with many adventure activities on offer.

This the largest marine reserve in South Africa and an indigenous rain forest that harbours 116 types of giant tree including the giant Outenique Yellowwood Trees. There is a special walk to the biggest of the these, The Big Tree which is a Yellowwood giant estimated to be ±800 years old, it stands 36.6 metres high and has a circumference of almost 9 metres.

With activities, shops, accommodation and tour operators all easily to hand, it's easy to try out at a variety of adventure activities, while experiencing the incredible beauty of the Tsitsikamma forest first-hand.

About the Author

Mark Johnson is a press release officer of BookMyRoom-SA

Visit Exotic Barra Grande Brazil, a Vacation Paradise

I don't know about you, but my favorite part of the year is vacation time. I look forward to it all year long. It's my reward for slaving away for countless hours at my boring job all year long.

Since it's so important for me to have an amazing vacation every year, I don't want to go to the same boring travel spots that everyone else goes to. Sure Disney World is fun, and Europe is Europe, and no one ever had a bad time on a cruise ship...but I want something more.

If you're like me, then you've come to the right article today because I'm going to share one of my best kept secret vacation spots with you today. This is the type of place that will knock your socks off! And I promise you one thing, none of your friends will have ever gone there before!

So where is this mysterious place? I'm talking about Barra Grande Brazil!

Where is it? Basically it's located along the southern coast of Bahia which is located in the northern and eastern part of Brazil in South America.

If you're having a hard time placing it mentally, think tropical paradise and you won't be far off the mark.

Barra Grande is a stunningly beautiful land of amazing beaches. But this isn't just another beach vacation, it also has it's share of exotic tropical forests and waterfalls that will take your breath away!

The area is called the Marau peninsula and it's known for its gorgeous beaches. Barra Grande is the name of a small town that's located on a bay called Camamu Bay.

Camamu is famous for being one of the largest bays in all of Brazil, in fact it's the 3rd largest; but who's counting. The point is, this is a great place to make a base if you want to explore around the entire area.

This isn't really a tourist spot. It's more a fishing village. I don't even think the streets are paved! But let's face it, you don't really WANT a tourist vacation do you? Anyone can have that, this is unique and laid back.
If you're looking to relax and recharge during your vacation, then this is the place for you! That's not to say it's boring, there's a ton of things to do like snorkeling, canoeing, exploring tropical forests, the works. But if you are looking to unwind, then the beaches here are perfect.

The area is also known for it's awesome cliff diving...if you're braver than I am you should give that a shot!

Whatever your pleasure, Barra Grande is a vacation you won't soon forget. I highly recommend it.

Jason has been writing articles online for nearly 14 years. When not writing about travel, he runs a very helpful Espresso Coffee Machines web site where he has a helpful guide on Saeco Vs Gaggia Espresso for all you home espresso needs.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Popular Vacation Spots in Texas

A holiday in Texas can make you glad. Nice weather, residents and a variety of cultures makes it popular. Although it is impossible to travel all the sites in a single day, some spots should be covered as follows:

Houston

This city is popular and has many types of attractions like family, education and friendly. Some are:

* Water Wall: It is a u-shaped fountain, which is 64 foot tall, surrounded by oak trees and spread across 3 acres and is the photographic site. It is a nice place for family picnic, children's enjoyment or a nap.

* The Buffalo Bayou: This is a popular attraction in Houston, which is not so photographic one, but is striking place for outdoorsman. It has a channel with bridges, walkways, skyline view, canoeing, hiking, biking and kayaking trails and parks.

* Holocaust Museum: It honors Holocaust survivors of Houston. Their stories are displayed through their belongings, photos and writings. Lately, a rail car built by German in 1942, similar to the one, which is used for carrying Jews from their dwelling places to the camps, have been added to the museum. A visitor could gaze into the 26.5-feet-long car and imagine about it with many people going towards the unimaginable thing.

San Antonio

It has historical and contemporary entertainment places. It has Alamo mission, which was once the battle place of an important battle of Texas Revolution. It has daily tours free of cost and has preserved the building of 19th century. It has River Walk featuring restaurants, shops and hotels along the river, San Antonio. Gondolas and flatbed boats take passengers to various sites across the Paseo del Rio.

Austin

Austin is a capital of Texas and has live music. Large music festivals like City Limits and South by Southwest festivals take place here. It also has historical places and geological surprises like Barton spring, which is a sequence of natural springs flowing into pools made by humans.

Tickets comprises of the major cost in a trip. If we can get cheap tickets it will help us to make a trip in budget. You can read more about budget travel in my articles.

Turks and Caicos Holidays: Public and Religious Observances

You may find yourself visiting the best kept secret in the Caribbean during a national or Christian holiday, so take a look at these Turks and Caicos holidays.

Commonwealth Day: Second Monday of March. The second Monday of March marks Commonwealth Day, a holiday celebrated in the United Kingdom and its sovereign territories. In Turks and Caicos, festivities include several patriotic events throughout the islands, including flag-raising and reading the Commonwealth message from the Queen.

Good Friday and Easter: Late March to Early April. Since many citizens are Christians, predominantly Baptists, Methodists, Anglicans, Church of God congregants, and Catholics, most people celebrate Good Friday, when Jesus Christ was crucified, and Easter, when according to Christian scriptures he was raised from the dead.

National Heroes' Day: Last Monday of May. This day marks "National Heroes' Day" on which citizens celebrate the patriots of Turks and Caicos, both known and unknown. Falling on the last Monday of every May, the holiday corresponds to the United States' Memorial Day.

The nation's capitol, Grand Turks, houses two ceremonies for the holiday, one at JAGS McCartney Mausoleum and the other at Lester Williams Park. The ceremonies include a wreath-laying in honor of first Chief Minister of Turks and Caicos, James Alexander George Smith McCartney, along with special rites and speeches to honor unsung heroes of the islands.

The Birthday of the Queen: June 13, 2010. As subjects of the British Commonwealth, citizens of Turks and Caicos follow the law and celebrate the Queen's birthday as a national holiday. Though the Queen's actual birthday is April 21, the holiday is on June 13.

Emancipation Day: August 1, 2010. On August 1, 1834, the English Parliament passed the Slavery Abolishment Act of 1833, outlawing serfdom and servitude in the British Empire. As a result, Turks and Caicos recognizes the first day of August as "Emancipation Day."

National Youth Day: Last Friday of September. On the last Friday of September, the islands honor of the nation's youth. Commonly called "National Youth Day," the holiday includes parades, festivals, and special events across the islands to stir up patriotism, appreciation for cultural ancestry, and hope for the nation's future.

Columbus Day: Monday Closest to October 10. On the Monday that falls closest to October 10, the Turks and Caicos citizens celebrate Columbus Day. Although some argue that Ponce de Leon found the islands first, tradition holds that Columbus landed on the islands in 1492.

International Human Rights Day: October 24. In light of the events of World War II, the United Nations General Assembly adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. The declaration outlines the basic human rights to which all humans around the globe are entitled. In 1950, the United Nations encouraged the nations of the world to recognize this holiday. The Turks and Caicos Islands chose to move it to the earlier date.

Christmas: December 25. Because of the strong Christian presence in Turks and Caicos, the nation recognizes Christmas, and like most other countries in the world, the citizens celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on December 25.

Boxing Day: December 26. Boxing Day is a banking holiday celebrated in the Commonwealth nations. This secular holiday means a day off work for bank employees.

Many debate the origin of the holiday. Some people think it is related to the "alms boxes" the Church puts out on the Feast of St. Stephen, also on December 26, to provide for the poor. Others claim that it began during the Victorian era when tradesmen were given "Christmas boxes" or gifts for exceptional services throughout the year. A third contingent attributes the holiday to an Old English tradition, in which wealthy landowners would give their servants the 26th off to visit their families. The servants would receive supplies, food, and other items for the trip.

New Year's Day: January 1. Many restaurants, resorts, and bars will throw parties and shoot fireworks on December 31, 2010, in anticipation for the New Year. If you manage to stay awake, you can catch the Junkanoo rush in Providenciales, a street parade with Caribbean music. Junkanoo festivals also occur on Boxing Day.

Now that you know the major Turks and Caicos holidays, you can better plan your vacation.

Just fifteen minutes from Providenciales International Airport, the Tuscany, http://www.thetuscanyresort.com, sits a secluded stretch of Grace Bay Beach on the northeastern coast of Providenciales. Come visit the Tuscany and celebrate the holidays at a luxurious, beachfront retreat.