3 Top Museums in Geneva

When you are travelling to the Geneva, airport transfers are the best way to get into the city to see all that the second largest city in Switzerland has to offer. Situated in the French speaking part of Switzerland, Geneva is a global hub of finance, culture, history, business, and education. Previously, it was a simple border town when the Romans took control of it in 121 B.C. From there, it grew and became a mostly self-governing city in the last part of the fourteenth century, and, during the sixteenth century, John Calvin famously founded the Protestant sect of Calvinism. In 1815, Geneva joined the Swiss Confederation and throughout the next centuries, the city and its arts flourished. With such a rich array of choices for furthering your knowledge of the city's art and history, be sure to see the Art and History Museum, Les Délices, and the Olympic Museum.

The Art and History Museum

After you fly into the Geneva airport, transfers to the city will make it quick and easy to get to the centre, where the large and impressive Art and History Museum is located in Les Tranchées. Built between 1903 and 1910, the museum has a huge exhibition space of 75,000 square feet. As an institution, the museum opened as the Musée des Beaux-Arts in 1826 in the building that the Rath Museum now occupies. The collection itself stretches over a large period, from the Middle Ages to the twentieth century, and boasts a variety of French, Italian, Dutch, Genevan and Swiss schools. As you wander around, be sure to look for the works by Rembrandt, Paul Cézanne and Rodin, before exploring the applied arts sections which boasts Byzantine arts, weapons, icons and household items. The section for archaeology showcases findings from European prehistory, Egypt, and a variety of Middle Eastern finds.

Les Délices

As you arrive in Geneva, airport transfers will take you into the city where you can visit the home of Voltaire, which is known as Les Délices. Voltaire is the famous French philosopher and writer and he occupied the house from 1755 to 1760. Due to the ways the laws worked in those days, Voltaire, as a foreigner, couldn't buy the house so he, instead, purchased a life interest in the estate. Les Délices now houses the Voltaire Institute and Museum with a library that has more than 25,000 books.

The Olympic Museum

As you head back to the Geneva airport, transfers can give you a bit of extra time to allow you to visit the Olympic Museum to explore the history of some of the greatest games in the world. On the shores of the famous lake, the museum is located in a modern facility that explores the heritage of the games and their importance in history. Currently the museum is closed for renovations, but it will be back on track before the next games in Rio.

Singapore Packages: Singapore Is a Foodie's Paradise

If you happen to be a foodie, then you have got one more reason to buy a Singapore package. Singapore is a country which surely needs no description! It is a widely popular tourist spot pulling in thousands of backpackers every year as they get lured towards its verdant beaches, temples, markets, marvels and restaurants. However, the country is also a foodie's paradise known for serving your belly with a plethora of cuisines.

Singapore is a cosmopolitan country which also houses the Indian community, Chinese community and local Muslims. Hence, it is no surprise that cuisines of India and China are widely available. Moreover, all these cuisines retain that local Singapore flavor and have something unique to offer.

Singapore packages will pamper you up by helping you explore the various delicious corners of the country. Be it the Raffles hotel or food joints at Bugis Street, there is no limit to the quantity of cuisines & delicacies available in this part of the world. If you love your seafood, then East Coast Parkway will be your number one destination where you can sink your teeth into all kinds of sea food like oysters, squids, crabs and even octopuses. These special cuisines not just bring the most fearful creatures from the sea right into your plate but also leave a pleasant taste to your mouth.

Singapore packages also include visit to the Sentosa Island where there are a hoard of restaurants lined up to serve you with their exotic meals. The month of July also witnesses a special Singapore Food Festival. If you can make it during that time, then you can even taste some of the yummiest and most experimental foods that you have ever seen.

If you're a shopaholic, Singapore serves you with an experience like never before. Shopping is, in fact, the national time pass in Singapore, and a rewarding experience for travelers related to any lifestyle and budget. Orchard Road is the most famous and the largest shopping spot at the island brimming with a range of shopping arcades. Mustafa Center, spanning two complexes in the middle of Little India, is also a great place to shop anything ranging from garments to jewelry and cosmetics to artifacts. The Newly opened Parco Marina Bay is one more popular shopping spot in Singapore. Nestled in the sleepy Millennia Walk, it offers a quality range of goods at lucrative rates. Apart from that, Chinatown, Little India and Ann Siang Road market make you full your shopping bags when in Singapore.

A budget-friendly Singapore package is your ultimate passport to a land not just known for its food but also for its beaches, extraordinary man-made structures and its wildlife. You just need to choose among the customized Singapore packages to ensure a delightful vacation at this wonderful land. Professional support from a reliable travel agency also comes in handy to plan your journey perfectly.

Visit Lake Nakuru on Kenya Safari Holidays

Experience the Beautiful Lake Nakuru National Park on a Kenya Safari

One place that simply must be visited on a Kenya safari is the magnificent Lake Nakuru. Providing an awe inspiring introduction to Africa's diverse wildlife, the varying terrain around Lake Nakuru enables vacationers to see large pythons coil and dangle from branches in the dense forests, waterbucks drinking from waterholes on the savannahs, Rothschild giraffes plucking leaves from lofty trees and black and white rhinos plodding over the wetlands. The Lake Nakuru National Park stretches over 188 km², containing myriad animal and bird species to watch, photograph and video. Situated on the southern border of the town of Nakuru, the Lake is an alkaline one which varies in size from 5 to 45 km² depending on the rainfall. One of the Rift Valley soda Lakes, the abundant algae sustains a huge population of birdlife and troops of baboons socialise on its banks and under the canopies of the tropical forests. No Kenya safari is complete without a trip to this stunning Lake.

Witness the Vibrant Pink Flamingos

Climb the 100 meter nature trail that winds its way to the top of Baboon Cliff to enjoy a picnic among the acacia, euphorbia and olive trees which provide shelter for inquisitive baboons. Baboon Cliff is the ideal vantage point to take in a sweeping view of Lake Nakuru. An unforgettable visual spectacle is provided by the shifting pink carpet created by flocks of lesser and greater flamingos that descend to gorge themselves on the rich algae. The sight of these elegant birds will become a cherished experience for every tourist on a Kenya safari vacation. Keen birdwatchers will be spoiled for choice and photographers will relish snapping a colorful gallery featuring goliath herons, African fishing eagles, pelicans, verreaux eagles, cormorants and pied kingfishers. An ornithologist's dream, this Lake brims with winged wonders that dazzle enraptured safarists.

Lake Nakuru Provides Many Memorable Moments during a Kenya Safari

After a visit here, tourists will have many tales to tell. One minute they will staring into the eyes of a rock hyrax, the next they may see an elusive bat eared fox dart between some tree trunks. The high quality hotels and lodges in the area allow holidaymakers to relax in sumptuous comfort while they gather their thoughts and check the pictures and videos they took throughout the day. Anyone who makes the right choice of embarking on a luxury Kenya safari must make sure a visit to Lake Nakuru is on their itinerary.

Travel in Burma to Meet the Northern Hill Tribes

Burma's northernmost province, Kachin State, is also one of the least-frequented by western visitors who travel in Burma. Those adventurous souls who do venture into the northern mountains will be rewarded with incredible views of peaks and valleys, spread with lush jungle - some of the most abundant and biodiverse landscapes in the region, with rich seams of rare jade underneath.

They will also have the honour of being able to meet some of Kachin State's diverse peoples. The province is home to many ethnic groups, some of whom have very little contact with the rest of the country. The people of the state are sometimes referred to collectively as the Kachin, but they are in fact made up of very distinct groups. The largest, in terms of population, are the Lisu and Rawang so you are most likely to meet these groups as you travel in Burma. As you will be guests in their lands, you may want to learn something of their cultures before embarking - so read on for a short introduction on the wonderful Lisu and Rawang people of the country.

The Lisu

The Lisu people are an ethnic group with populations in several modern nations, including China and Burma; they trace their thousands-of-years-old ancestry to Tibet. They are one of the peoples you are most likely to meet as you travel in Burma, passing through their villages and lands where they work in rice fields. Some villages are Christian, others Animist - look out for spirit shrines in the latter. Like many other Lisu tribes, those in Burma keep their historical records in song form, and these songs can take all night to sing.

The Rawang

The Rawang nation is made up of over 70 tribes, inhabiting Kachin State as well as Arunachal Pradesh in India and nearby parts of China. They have traditionally been a hunter-gatherer society, but may have settled in this fertile region of Burma in order to cultivate rice; they also mine the jade and gold that the region is known for. They have their own language, Rawang, and distinct clothing with red and blue/black patterns on white.

Manau Festivals

As you travel in Burma, you will see that there are many differences between the peoples of Kachin State, but traditionally they share the Manau Festival on National Day in January. This is marked with music and dancing in honour of the creator spirit, Lamu Madai.

Rome's Ancient Circus Maximus

History students interested in ancient Rome often find a visit to the Circus Maximus to be particularly rewarding on their study tours. Initially a stadium for chariot races, it was the first and largest stadium of its kind in the Roman Empire, and provided the template for many other imitations and stadium constructions. With a capacity of over 150,000 spectators it was the city's largest venue for 'ludi' - days or half-days of sporting events connected to the Roman religious dates, sponsored by leading political figures or the state itself for the benefit of the population. Today, the site of the Circus Maximus is a public park, open for students and history buffs to enjoy delving into the history of the ancient Roman Empire.

The Ludi

Despite the reputation of the Circus Maximus as an arena for chariot races, history and classics students on their study tours are often surprised to find that there was a bewildering array of entertainments on offer - athletic competitions, plays, poetry recitals, beast-hunts and even the type of gladiator contests that you might have expected to find at the Colosseum! Most of the entertainments began with a flamboyant parade, specially crafted to present a sense of wealth and abundance to the people; the complexity of staging the ludi became a way to demonstrate the generosity and fitness for office of the organisers. One notable event was recorded to have included 63 leopards and 43 bears and elephants - surely a sign of incredible competency to arrange!

The Phenomenon Expanding

As the Roman Empire grew in stature and political power, the Circus Maximum didn't lose any of its splendour or relevance - far from it! Ludi were held at the Circus Maximus on 57 days of the year, and the venue would have been a hubbub of activity even on days when no official event was scheduled, as charioteers practised on the track. Students on study tours will be amazed at the versatility of the entertainments on offer; even at the height of its popularity for chariot-races, the wide space of the Circus Maximus was also one of the most suitable in Rome for religious processions on a massive scale. The other shows it hosted were no less spectacular; in one, it is reported, the emperor Probus organised a spectacular event in which beasts were hunted through a forest of artificial trees, on a specially built stage. Now that's an interesting spectacle for imaginative students on their study tours to contemplate!

Hiking in Rio De Janeiro - 3 Easy Hikes to Do on Your Own

One of the things that make Rio special is its proximity to nature. There are numerous national parks, hills and mountains within easy reach which are well suited for hiking. This article will introduce you to 3 short hikes that you easily can do on your own and that will only take between 20 and 30 minutes one way.

1. Parque da Catacumba
Next to the lagoon (Lagoa Rodrigo De Freitas) there is a park called Parque da Catacumba. Until the 1970's this area was a favela but it was removed by the government. InsiDe the park there is a trail leading to two lookout points with great views of the lagoon. One faces the Leblon direction and the other faces Corcovado. The trail is at times a bit steep but the short distance still makes it relatively easy and you will probably make it in about 20 minutes. InsiDe the park just follow a sign that says "Mirante" which means lookout point. The entrance to the park is at Avenida Epitácio Pessoa, 3000 opposite a Petrobras gas station and the park is open from Tuesday to Sunday.

2. Morro da Urca
Morro da Urca is the first hump leading to Sugarloaf and where the cable car makes its first stop. The name means Hill of Urca, Urca being the name of the neighborhood in which Sugarloaf is located. If you don't want to take the cable car you can hike to the top of Morro da Urca for free. And if you wish to continue to the top of Sugarloaf you can pay for the second part of the cable car at a reduced price.

This trail is easy both in difficulty and in length, it is common to see children doing this hike. The trail starts between Sugarloaf and the little beach Praia Vermelha. You follow a paved path along the coast for about 1 km until there is an opening on your left. This is where the hike starts. Once you have found the entrance the trail is quite straight forward. You only need to choose direction once, which is when you reach a kind of plateau where you need to go to the left (after going to the right a few minutes you will notice that you are wrong). On this hike you will be likely to see Marmosets (small monkeys), birds and colorful butterflies.

3. Morro do Leme
Morro do Leme is the hill at the end of Leme which is the end piece of Copacabana. It is a military area housing the Forte Duque De Caxias on top of the hill. (Not to be confused with the Forte De Copacabana, if you ask people about the Forte they may send you to the wrong siDe of Copacabana). There is a relatively easy trail following a cobble stone road to the top which gives you a great view of Copacabana. The trail starts at the bottom of the hill insiDe the military area, soldiers in the area will point you in the right direction. The trail is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 to 16:30. On Tuesdays entrance is free and on other days it is cheap (at time of writing 4 Reais).

Incredible Sights on Your China Tour

China is a fascinating country to visit, brimming with historical sights dating back thousands of years. It's also one of the fastest developing countries in the world, with its city skyline dominated by skyscrapers. Here is just a selection of the fantastic sights you can see while on your China tour.

West Lake

The west lake is set in the centre Hangzhou, an influential city in Eastern China. This mammoth water body covers over 2.2 miles, it offers a place for tranquillity and the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the inner city. It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site this year and has been an inspiration for many Chinese garden designers. West lake is brimming with small islands connected by bridges and passageways, among the highlights is the abundance of lotus flowers within the Crooked Courtyard

Yangtze River

At nearly 4,000 metres long, the Yangtze is the longest waterway in the country, and the third longest river in the world. The Yangtze rampages from the glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau, penetrating through the middle of steep rocky valleys all the way to the East China Sea in Shanghai. It offers some breathtaking landscapes with steep gorges, rainforests and mountain ranges all offered on the way. It is often a hugely popular destination for river cruises, there couldn't be a better way to view the river than via a vessel.

Terra cotta warriors

First buried in 210BC, this incredible work of ancient art wasn't discovered until 1974 when local farmers recognised a life size terracotta figure. Little did they know that there would be around 8,000 more warriors buried under ground, along with 130 chariots and 520 horses This collection depicts the armies of China's first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. The collection was buried along with him as a method to protect him in the afterlife. The collection still stands as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries ever made.

The Great Wall of China

No guide on China could be complete without its most famous landmark. The Great Wall of China is a collection of fortification walls which, some dating back to the 5th century BC. It has been estimated to be over 5,500 miles long and stretches from the Far East to the West. It has become intrinsic with the country, becoming a national symbol and easily the most visited attraction of all.

Sunny Winter Holidays at a Jamaica Villa

If, like many people, you begin counting down the months to summer when the winter's just begun, perhaps you need to start planning a warm weather holiday away from the cold in a Jamaica Villa. Heading to this charming island (where the average temperature tends to be around 30 degrees Celsius) will chase your winter blues away, and you will be spoilt for choice with all the fun things you can enjoy under the warmth of the Caribbean sun. Here are a couple of the key activities to consider taking part in once you leave the chilly winter behind and arrive on the joyous 'Jamrock'.

Watersports at Aquasol Theme Park

A definite antidote for the winter blues equals going to the Aquasol Water Theme Park! Conveniently located at the Walter Fletcher Beach, in the heart of Montego Bay, Aquasol is probably no more than a stone's throw from your gorgeous Jamaica Villa. So slip on those flip flops and head down to the beach. At Aquasol you can sunbathe (of course) on the white sands, go snorkelling in the clear, warm waters, or opt for one of many other water activities available. Try the water trampolines, go jet skiing, wave running, kayaking or take either a banana boat or a glass-bottom boat ride. If you don't fancy any of these (for some strange reason) you can always go for tennis or beach volley ball. If you're on holiday with the kids, don't worry! There's a well-equipped children's playground to keep them happy.

J-J-Jerk Chicken

Now, it may seem like a given, but, just in case you didn't know, jerk chicken is so popular in Jamaica, it's almost like a staple (really). In all seriousness, no holiday staying in a Jamaica Villa would be complete without trying this fabulous local delicacy. If you aren't a fan of chicken, they 'jerk' just about everything else too - pork, goat, shrimp, beef, sausage, tofu (yes tofu) you name it! The key ingredient is the hot, spice laden rub in which the meat is marinated. The meat is then smoked using different techniques to produce a number of distinctive tastes. Now popularised across the globe, thanks to the Jamaican Diaspora, jerk chicken is believed to have come about in Jamaica when the Maroons introduced African meat cooking techniques, which later evolved in conjunction with unique local ingredients and spices.

Even if your eating habits aren't that adventurous, believe us when we tell you that sampling some Jamaican jerk chicken will add some extra heat to your holiday! Wash it down with some coconut water straight from the nut and you'll start to understand why a holiday in a Jamaica Villa is top of everyone's list when it comes to an idyllic getaway.

Why A Leisure Resort Is Perfect For Your Family

Fortunately, this is why choosing to stay at a leisure resort may be the solution to planning a perfect getaway.

Leisure resorts are designed with the purpose of promoting leisure and relaxation. The people that manage these resorts have spent much time and effort into making sure that all bases are covered. That leaves the only thing left for the guests to do is enjoy.

Many leisure resorts cater to the special needs of families. Families are composed of all different ages of people so the opportunity for fun and relaxation has to be available to meet the different needs. Many people will find that these resorts have thought this out so well, that there is not even a need to leave and go elsewhere for entertainment.

Guests at this type of establishment will find that there are many options for fun for an entire family to enjoy. Many have different activities throughout the day based on different age groups. Activities can be found for the youngest in your group and all the way up to the oldest. Some are activities that require a parent to participate while others encourage independent play. These activities are also designed with safety in mind so there is not the need to stress about your child getting lost or hurt.

Many of these resorts also have options for childcare which allows the grownups to enjoy a quiet dinner or time to participate in some of the activities slated for adults. The childcare centers are generally well staffed with competent caregivers that love children. This also provides your little one with a chance to mingle and socialize with others in their age group.

Since there is usually eating areas on the premises of the resorts, there is no need to travel outside of the place looking for places to eat. There may be a variety of different restaurants or eating areas specializing in different atmospheres. Some can be more catered to children, while others may be more formal. Live entertainment is also an added benefit that is commonly available to guests. Entertainment has also been planned out with options that are suitable for everyone.

One of the nicest benefits is that the vacation can be purchased as a package deal. These packages can include such things as meals being included, special events and entertainment options. That leaves you free to just kick back and enjoy without constantly taking your wallet out to pay.

Leisure resorts can offer a family a much needed break and time to relax. Having everything all in one place makes things convenient and easy. Easy access to entertainment, food, accommodations and activities all in one location can take the stress out of planning. What is left after that is nothing but pure relaxation.

Bhutan Treks – The Brokpa People And Their Legends

Eastern Bhutan is arguably one of the world's most beautiful regions - and it is home to the culturally unique Brokpa people, who live in Merak and Sakten. For almost two decades, Bhutan treks in that part of the country were not permitted by the government for undisclosed reasons - rumours alleged the desire to protect the Yeti - but the regions of Merak and Sakten are now open again. Bhutan treks there offer the truly memorable opportunity to meet these wonderful people.

Ethnically Unique

The Brokpas speak Sharchop, a different language to that spoken elsewhere in Bhutan - more noticeable to visitors on Bhutan treks, they dress uniquely. Brokpa people are easily recognised by their woven red jackets, often detailed with stitched animals, and curious black yak hats. These hats have five spidery legs, designed to channel rainwater away from the wearer's head and body. As befitting the name Brokpa, which can be translated to mean 'nomad' or 'herder', the people remain semi-nomadic yak herders, relying on the animal for clothing, food and transport. For anyone with an interest in minority ethnic groups and the preservation of traditional ways of living in an increasingly modern, homogenous world, Bhutan treks in Merak and Sakten are a must.

Aum Jono and the King's Demand

Like many Himalayan peoples, the Brokpa have a story of their origin. They moved to Bhutan many hundreds of years ago - according to them, this is because they once lived in Tibet, until a conflict with a ruler. This king demanded that his people remove the top of a mountain because it blocked the sun, covering his palace in shadow. One woman, Aum Jono, who did not think this ridiculous order should be obeyed, told her people that it was far easier to remove a head than a mountain-top. The Brokpas agreed. After killing the king, Aum Jono led them to safety and prosperity in eastern Bhutan. She is now revered as a protecting deity, with a festival held in her honour.

Brokpas and the Yeti

Anyone planning to go on Bhutan treks will surely have heard of the Yeti. To the Brokpas this creature is called Megay, and yak herders to this day report encountering Megay in high, thickly forested altitudes, typically when they have pursued a straying yak. According to their remarkable tales, the Megay consumes bamboo shrubs, is white or light red in colour, and smells of garlic. The Megay is not a curiosity, as it is to Westerners, but a guardian deity of remote mountainous regions - and the Brokpas accordingly treat it with respect.

Koh Samui Beach Villas Rental On Koh Samui Island, Thailand

Koh Samui Island lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the eastern coast Thailand's southern provinces. Surrounded by clear seas and golden beaches, Samui is a breathtaking holiday destination. The island has always been a pinnacle in SE Asia for contemporary, modern beach villa architecture and the design quality of recently built villas continues to build upon that reputation.

Luxury beach villas are dotted around the 60km coastline of Samui and the majority of these villas are in quieter, tranquil locations, away from the touristic centers of the island's north east. However, a good choice of beach villas is still found in the busy north east of the island.

Due to the high cost of beach land, most private Koh Samui beach villas are large properties with at least four bedrooms. Two and three bedroom villas are still available though most of these smaller villas are part of exclusive beach villa developments and resorts. Again, there are exceptions to this rule and if you book early enough you should be able to find a suitable two or three bedroom property.

The design of most Koh Samui beach villas is quite similar with a large pavilion towards the rear of the property and several smaller pavilions build between the beach and the rear pavilion.

Beach quality can vary around the island, so make sure you ask questions about quality of sand, depth of water and height of seasonal tides before you book.

Beach villa rental costs in Koh Samui are relatively low when compared to beach villas in other tropical SE Asian destinations. A luxurious 2-bedroom might cost you around $500 - $800 USD per night whereas a 5-bedroom would set you back about $800 - $1500 USD per night. For those on an unlimited budget, a truly luxurious seven or eight bedroom villa could cost upwards of $7000 USD per night.

The Great Debate: Picnic Baskets Vs. Picnic Totes

You’ve been on a picnic before, right? You may have taken a large spread with you, complete with all of your favorite picnic dishes, from ham and cheese sandwiches, to potato salad, and sweet tea. Do you remember what you carried your food and utensils in? You may have carried them in a picnic basket. Picnic baskets are a classic way to pack for your journey to your favorite outdoor dining spot. Nowadays, picnickers have a variety of picnic baskets that they can choose from. So, the next time you’re picnicking, will you choose a picnic basket or a picnic tote?

Picnic baskets and picnic totes both have the same general function. They keep your food safe and clean, they keep your utensils clean and organized, and they make transporting your meal easier. Just what is the difference between picnic baskets and picnic totes?

Picnic baskets come in two different styles. There is the classic picnic basket (Think “Wizard of Oz”), which is made of either rattan or bamboo. This type of basket is lightweight, while still managing to be durable. Unfortunately, it can be uncomfortable to carry a classic basket if you are walking a long distance to your picnic destination. There are also more modern picnic baskets, which are made of a polyester material. These baskets are often fully insulated so that they can keep your food and beverages cold. Best of all, these baskets usually zip, which helps to keep your utensils and your food germ-free.

Picnic totes are different from picnic baskets in that they look much more like a traditional tote bag that you might transport your books in. The placement of their straps makes totes much easier to carry. You can find picnic totes that offer enough accessories so that four people can enjoy a picnic together. Like picnic baskets, many of these totes will already include your silverware and cups, so that you never need to bring your dinnerware from home out into the wilderness.

Some totes are made exclusively for wine, or for wine and cheese. These totes keep your picnic completely insulated so you can relax and sip on a chilled glass of white wine. Wine and cheese totes aren’t the only totes that will keep your food cold, though. There are picnic totes available online that will keep your entire meal, as well as your beverages, at the perfect temperature.

Visit The Royal Mattancherry Dutch Palace

Cochin is an enchanting tourist destination of Kerala where tourists come from far and wide. Also known as Kochi, this city is well-known for its history, culture, traditions, tea, coffee and spice plantations, palace, beach and backwaters. There is so much to enjoy and experience on Cochin Tour.

This beautiful city is popularly known as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. It also serves as an important seaport of the country. Located in the Eravikulam district of the state it is a picturesque place where you can enjoy the glory of Mother Nature at its best. Its tea, coffee and spice gardens are among the famous attractions of Cochin which promise to leave you completely mesmerized.

On your tour to Cochin do visit the historic and beautiful Mattancherry Palace which is also known as Dutch Palace. Located at a distance of only 10 km from Cochin, this palace is a fascinating attraction. This splendid structure was built by the Portuguese in the year 1555 and was gifted to the erstwhile king of Kochi. Later the Dutch established their supremacy over the kingdom. At that time they renovated the palace and named it as the Dutch Palace in the year 1663. Today when you visit this royal structure you will be mesmerized to see its beautiful interiors, paintings and a variety of things reflecting Hindu art.

Visit the Coronation hall on the second floor to treat your eyes with the arresting paintings (frescoes) adorning the walls. These paintings display the scenes from the great Hindu epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata. Another attraction of the Dutch Palace is a special area dedicated to paintings based on the themes of Tretayug ( from Putra Kameshthi Yagya to Rama’s return to Ayodhya after Lanka’s war). These paintings reflect the finest examples of Kerala’s mural paintings having their own unique style. The palace also houses a variety of royal articles such as costumes, palanquin lined with ivory, turbans, etc. No wonder a visit to Dutch Palace will transport you back in time to the era of raja-maharajas.

Also visit the temple dedicated to ‘Pazhayannu Bhagavati (the Goddess of the Kochi Royal family) inside the palace complex. The shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna are also there in the palace complex.

Beautiful Egypt

With Egypt family holidays becoming increasingly popular there are many first time visitors to the country out there, this article looks at several top attractions of the country for those who know very little about this fantastic country and its ancient history.

Topping the list, and the one that many people will recognise, are the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx. These impressive monuments have come to represent much of what the outside world sees when they think of Egypt, and for a good reason. The pyramids form some of the greatest tombs on the planet, their perfect peaks soaring up into the sky. The Sphinx is more of an enigma, with archaeologists arguing to this day over its purpose.

Next on the list, another ancient structure, are the magical temples dedicated to Ramsis II and his wife Nevertari. The temples were built in the belief they could grant immortality and they're some of the most beautiful examples of ancient structures in the country. The other truly remarkable story behind these structures is that they were moved in their entirety in the late 20th century to avoid flooding in the area they were originally located.

Moving on, and its another icon of Egypt, is the mighty river Nile. Not only is it one of the longest and largest rivers on the planet but it also makes for an excellent cruise experience! The Nile has been at the heart of Egypt for thousands of years, with ancient sites set all along the length of the river. The river also houses an abundance of life, along with its impressive history, and you can see everything from the fantastic bird life to sleek Nile crocodiles.

Next up, and one of the sites you can visit from the river, is the beautiful Valley of the Kings. This sacred valley houses the tombs of the Pharaohs and because of this has some of the most incredibly decorated structures in Egypt. Inside the tombs many fantastic treasures have been discovered including the famous mummy Tutankhamun.

Finally we have a more modern jewel and it's the countries capital, Cairo, a fantastic centre of culture. Cairo's a place you wouldn't want to miss and luckily most trips to Egypt will feature some time in the capital. The city is packed with fantastic markets, brilliant culture and amazing history. The city also features several fantastic museums that help enrich any trips you may be thinking of making to the ancient sites.

Thailand - Tailor-Made of Honeymooners

Thailand provides honeymooners with experience they cherish all their life. The place would leave the people thrilled and enchanted, they never feel like leaving the country. One of the favourite places of honeymooners, Thailand offers an unending line of attractions.

Thailand is a destination of enchanting sights. This beautiful land is favoured by honeymooners for its exotic landscapes, beaches, nature parks, temples, luxury hotels, restaurants etc. The country has its own unique culture and the rich history has endowed it with the monuments of significance. A place of unforgettable attractions, Thailand offers something for everyone, and for the honeymooners, it is just fantastic.

Some prominent Thai destinations are as under:

Bangkok: Bangkok, the capital city of Thailand, is the first destination of most honeymooners in the country. The city is perfect to begin your Thai experience. Some of the beautiful places in Bangkok are Dusit Zoo, Erawan Shrine, Ganesha Shrine, Temple of Dawn, Wat Phra Kaewa and Temple of Golden Buddha. Your Thailand trip is incomplete if you haven't visited these places.

Phuket: Phuket, known as 'pearl of the south' is among one of the most visited destinations in Thailand. The first thing which comes to one's mind while touring Phuket beaches. Patong, Karon and Kata are three most popular beaches in Phuket. The place is known for its fantastic nightlife, hair-raising adventures and fast-paced shopping.

Pattaya: Pattaya is considered as one of the best places in Thailand for honeymoon holidays. The place is acclaimed all across the world for its idyllic beaches, frenzied shopping, fun-filled nightlife and thrilling adventures. Some prominent Pattaya attractions are Crocodile Show, Exotic Plants, Strange Rocks, Pattaya Elephant Town, Sriracha Tiger Zoo etc.

Koh Samui: Koh Samui has a large number of beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels where the honeymooners can enjoy the amazing beauty of the white sand beaches along the coastlines. Travelers can play a range of watersports in Samui and interesting thing is that you won't find crowd. You can get good services over here at affordable rates.

Koh Chang: This is a marine national park which attracts thousands of visitors worldwide. Here, you can appreciate the pure gifts of nature. Koh Chang has everything nature has to offer and is tailor-made for families who want to have a quiet and peaceful holidays. At this particular place you can take a bunglow on rent in order to have a comfortable stay during your whole vacation.

Chiang Mai: Chiangmai is the place of temples. You can visit the oldest to the noblest ones, including the Wat Suan Dok, which holds the ashes of Chiang Mai's former Royal Family members. In another chapel lies one of Thailand's largest icons in metal, a 500-year old bronze Buddha. You can also visit the temple compound where the divine Lai Kham chapel is located.

Krabi: A tropical paradise, Krabi, is a must-visit for a visitor in Thailand. It is applauded for fantastically beautiful palm-fringed beaches, refreshing spas and strange looking limestone caves, studded with stalactites and stalagmites. There are several spa centers here providing refreshing, rejuvenating service.

Sydney: One Of The Most Beautiful Cities Under The Clouds

Sydney happens to be the most urbanized part of Australia. As it was noted to be the state capital of the New South Wales, it also is the largest and most inhabited city in Australia. It houses the Sydney opera house in the northeastern part, the Sydney town hall in the south, and the sky tower in the center. But we all know that Sydney is known as the home of fish and chips, the Ferries, Kylie Minogue, and that dentist from Nemo. Now, what to do when in Sydney? There's a lot actually.

Let's start with the sky tower. The sky tower is actually known in Australia as the AMP Tower or the AMP Centrepoint. Its construction started in the 70's and completed in 1981. As a member of the World Federation of Great Towers, it is fitting and proper that they have allocated a viewing deck in order to see a bird's eye view of the city among the clouds. Standing at 164 feet, the main observation deck houses 18 binoculars to get a 360 degree-view of Sydney. You'll be able to see Sydney Harbour Bridge, Botany Bay, the Blue Mountains, and yes, include in the list the Pacific Ocean. Amazing, isn't it?

Include an Oz-trek adventure to complete your adventurous spirit. The breathtaking view for the tower creates a relaxing aura amidst the laid-back country like Australia even in its busiest city. The Oz-trek adventure associated with your view at the tower is a virtual-reality ride across Australia where you'll be welcomed with its history and culture. Experience Australia with surround sound in a 180-degree cinema screen and heart pounding real motion seating and you'll live through 4D movies alternate reality. You'll be able to appreciate more of Australia with this adventure. You'll be able to go into a trance-inducing ride as you navigate the country virtually.

While you're at the most sought-after tourist attraction in Sydney, complete your adventure with the Sydney Tower Skywalk. The Skywalk is like literally walking on the roof of Sydney. You are to tread a glass-flooring with the skyguides commenting on the colorful view provides insights as you see Sydney at 268 metres above sea level. The tower itself is double the height of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, and yes, it is the same height as the Eiffel Tower! This experience is best for those height-fearful individuals as they feel liberation with the security of being among the clouds. This adventure is known for its safety. Those who take on the adventure are given safety-harnesses that is attached to external walkways at all times allowing full view with the comfort of assurance. So, it is safe and what a fun!

Sydney may be the busiest among the laid-back nature of the only country with its own continent. The attraction it offers is an experience of a lifetime. The internet is oozing with commentaries among those who have experienced it already. It never failed to meet expectations and the actual experience exceeds it. It is about time that you take on that experience as well.

The Pleasant Surprises Offered By A Europe Tour Package

A Europe tour package could be fun filled, thrilling, enthralling, exciting, serene and most importantly memorable. Whether you are someone who can splurge just at the mere mention of a luxury vacation or someone who wants to take a break with family but within the limitations of a budget, a Europe tour package can indeed be an ideal option for you. The 8 day, 7 night package is the most popular one but, there are tourists who opt for Europe tour package which extends over a fortnight. The beauty of Europe lies in its diversity. There is plenty of history to be explored, just as there is plenty of natural flora and fauna. You can soak in the sun and sand on the beautiful beaches and also roam the countryside. Here are some of the interesting things you can expect in the Europe tour package.

The Italian and French charm:

A lot of people dream about visiting the Eiffel Tower at least once in their lifetime. But France has got a lot more to offer. Whether it is the Glass Pyramid and the Louvre Museum or the Disneyland, the capital city of France is a wonderland in itself. You can visit the smaller villages like Eze and eastern cities like Monte Carlo, famous for the villas, casinos and the grand prix. In Italy you will love the views of Florence, the sculptures and the masterpieces, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and wonders of medieval architecture as well. The romantic city of Venice has been a favourite of couples since ages, with its canals, architecture and gondolas. The history of Rome doesn't need any introduction either and if you want to see the charm that has been transferred across centuries, this is surely the place.

Switzerland and the snow capped mountains:

It is called the playground of Europe. A Europe tour package wouldn't be complete without skiing on the Alps or the delightful scenic journeys of Switzerland. A visit to Zurich will rejuvenate you like never before with spectacular mountains, Ice Cave, Rhine falls and breathtaking glaciers.

United Kingdom and the surrounding wonders:

For a lot of people, a visit to London is more than just a vacation. Britain to many is still the mark of royalty and the beautiful streets, the richness of the ambience and the beautiful palaces will do nothing to harm the reputation which the country has earned over the centuries. While London will also offer you the buzz of a modern day city, the Trafalgar Square, Westminster Palace, Tower of London and St. Paul's Cathedral will ensure that you have a healthy dose of history as well. A Europe tour package however doesn't end there as you can enjoy pleasurable cruise dinners, shopping at Amsterdam and sightseeing at the beautiful quaint city of Brussels. Whether you love symphonies or opera, European cuisines or historic structures, your menu for the tour will have everything.

London To Dubai: A Complete Guide

London is one of the leading tourist attractions of the world. It has world famous parks, museums and palaces of architectural and historical significance. The world famous British museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, deal with subjects like science and history. There are many fascinating places to visit in London, witness to epic events down the pages of history. Westminster Abbey is one of the greatest architectural wonders in London. Many famous people like Sir Isaac Newton and King Henry III were buried here. Birmingham Palace and Kensington Palace have a great sense of history about them and are beautifully constructed.

Besides history, London is well known the world over for its theatres, which are the home of musicals, shows, ballet performances and opera. London was recognized as the "World's leading destination" at the 2010 World Travel Awards, beating the popular holiday destinations of New York and Sydney.

Dubai is another great tourist attraction. The kind of rapid development that Dubai has seen in recent years has made it one the major tourist attractions of the world. It is aptly called the 'City of Gold' due to its flourishing gold market. It has one of the biggest shopping extravaganzas in the world, the popular Annual Shopping Festival. Dubai's skyline is marked by huge sky scrapers, with the Burj Khalifa being the tallest building in the world. There are plenty of flights from London to Dubai to choose from. Here are a few options to choose from.

London to Dubai: A Look at Flight Options

You need the best deals when flying from London to Dubai, two of the most historic, adventurous and fun packed cities of the world. Travel experts can help with their knowledge of the culture and tourist attractions of the two cities. They can also help you get the best deals for airline tickets and hotel reservations.

Aer Lingus connects Dubai directly from the UK and ranks among the best options. EasyJet and RyanAir are the two major airlines that also connect Dubai to the European countries. British Airways offers not stop flights to and from Dubai. The Emirates is another airline with flights from London to Dubai and back. Virgin Atlantic flies from Heathrow, London to various destinations in the Middle East.

Travel experts can help you not only choose the best destinations and the best time to visit them, but can also help with discounts and special offers for flights.

Cheap Flights from London to Dubai

Flying from London to Dubai, the two famous cities can be quite a challenge for a tourist. Get in touch with a trusted travel expert for air tickets and hotel reservations. Here are a few tips to help you with your travel plans.

1.Airline coupons and vouchers are essential for getting cheap tickets

2.Book tickets when there is less density of passengers travelling. You are more likely to qualify for cheap tickets during the off-season.

3.Airlines do not advertise immediately after updating their prices. Buying ticket at this time can help you save on costs immensely.

Disney World Ticket Prices and Options

For you to experience the wondrous magic of Disney; you will need tickets. These serve as your passes in order to get into the theme parks and other attractions. The tickets can be bought online and you must be sure that the sellers are authorized. Disney World ticket prices are basically similar. They are non-transferable and are encrypted with the owner's fingerprints and so they cannot easily sell their own.

There are different ticket options that you can choose from if you want to visit Disney World. Each ticket type offers various options that have to do on how and how long you want to stay and have fun in Disney. Here is a Disney World ticket prices overview which details how each ticket option is different from the other.

Base ticket- this ticket type allows guests to be able to visit and explore one theme park a day. From a one day visit to a ten day escapade in Disney World, buyers are sure to be able to choose a ticket based on their preference as to their desired length of visit. However, this ticket does not allow access to water parks, Disney quest and Disney Wide World of Sports Complex. Prices of base tickets usually range from $80 to $250, depending on the length of visit. One useful tip is that you can save a lot more if you buy tickets good for more than a day; instead of buying tickets singly for each time you want to go to a certain theme park.

Hopper ticket- this ticket serves as an additional perk for the base ticket. It is valid for all the four theme parks on the same day. It costs $52 more than your base ticket whether for children or adults. It is quite costly; but if you really want to visit other theme parks in a day; then a hopper ticket is the way to go.

Water Park Fun ticket- this allows guests to visit a certain theme park for about three to six times plus an option for other entertainment or recreation venue. Again, you have to add another $52 for this option.

No Expiration- this ticket has to be bought together with the base ticket. It allows guests to utilize their unused days since it will not expire. As a rule, all tickets expire if not used within 14 days unless it has been tagged with no expiration.

Annual Passes- these tickets entitle the guests more privileges and perks. They can visit all four theme parks in one day. They can have free parking or can make use of the transport system. These tickets sold for about $500-$600.

Before buying a tickets, make sure that you have reviewed well all Disney World ticket prices. Moreover, read the coverage of each ticket and choose which suits your preferences the most. Buying a ticket with privileges that does not fit your wants can possibly ruin your visit. Lastly, see to it that the ticket prices are inclusive of tax since you do not want to be tricked into buying a falsely cheap ticket.

Choosing the Finest Walt Disney World Vacation Packages

Are you and your family planning to go on a trip to Disneyland? Are you searching for Walt Disney world vacation packages which will guarantee that you will have the best Disneyland experience? If you are, then it is highly imperative that you choose a particular vacation deal that will certainly make your trip pleasurable and worth-remembering. Then again, with all the deals and package being offered out there, how will you know that you are picking the finest package deal? This article offers some helpful pieces of advice that will assist you in selecting the best Disney vacation package.

First of all, when planning a tour in Walt Disney, it is highly advisable that you choose a certain time which is considered to be off the peak season. Remember that it is during peak season that prices of vacation packages tend to be sky high. Also, you cannot expect package prices to be very cheap. Therefore, you must have a planned, estimated budget that you are willing to shell out before you go looking for a certain package deal.

Once you already have your budget in mind, then you can now go searching for Walt Disney world vacation packages that will suit your finances. You can visit online sources for a variety of vacation package deals that you can choose from. There are also travel agencies that will arrange every single detail of the trip for you. All you have to do is to book your chosen package.

In choosing a certain vacation package online or from travel agencies, you have to take into consideration the coverage of such deal. Will it include comfortable accommodation, transfer and tours of other Disney theme parks? Is it inclusive of meals and rides? Before you settle for a particular package, make sure that you have understood the coverage of your deal. Sometimes, trying to go overly cheap can compromise the quality of your stay. That's why the package you choose has to be reasonable and perfectly suited to your desired budget.

Another useful tip is to settle for package deals that will offer stay to hotels that are quite close to a particular theme park. Why? This is because you would not want to spend too much time travelling to and from your hotel to your theme park destination. Be wary of hotels offering temptingly cheap package deals since there might be a trade-off. It can either be that the hotel is too far from the theme park or the accommodation, if not excellent, is not comfortable enough for you and your family.

Planning a trip to Disneyland entails a lot of considerations. If you want your tour to be amazing for the whole family then select a fine vacation deal. Choosing Walt Disney world vacation packages plays a vital role in ensuring that you have the best once in a lifetime experience. Therefore, it is very important that you carefully pick a package deal that is sure to make your trip worthwhile and definitely the best.

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