Europe Route Planner - Plan Your Trip Conveniently

Europe is a beautiful continent ranked as second largest continent of the world. With its beautiful and magnetic charm it attracts various visitors every year from all around the world. The number of tourists has definitely increased by manifolds which makes it a popular tourist destination. Europe comprises of many countries of historical importance and having rich cultural values such as Greece, France, Italy, Denmark, UK and London. These destinations should not be missed at any cost at all. An unplanned trip to such a continent can be a total mess up so to avoid any problems its better to carry a Europe tour planner with you.

Europe has numerous countries and destinations that are worth visiting. Without proper information or knowledge about the routes you may find it difficult to navigate and end up wasting a lot of your precious time. So if you really don't want your trip to be waste of time money and efforts then get European route planner

With the help of a route planner you can systematically travel to all the places in a convenient manner. You can plan your trip according to your priority and preferences as per your time. Most importantly your budget is also taken into consideration while preparing the itinerary. Then accordingly your rooms and ticket etc. are reserved by the agents so that you don't encounter any problem while on your trip. You can hire a guide, book hotel or taxis with the help of this guide.

With the route planner the navigation becomes very easy and you can easily travel through places. Now days these route planners can also be accessed online. The online way to access the planner is very simple and convenient. You can access it from anywhere and at any point of time.

If you don't want your trip to a nightmare for you then the Europe route planner will be a good choice to trust. You can avoid inconvenience while on your trip to Europe and enjoy your holiday completely.

Jason Born is offering advice for quite some time. He provides useful advice through his articles that have been found very useful. Our keywords are Europe travel, European route planner, Europe travel planning, Europe vacation, Europe map, cheap travel package.

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A Look the fascinating Medieval Castles of Japan

When we think of Medieval castles we seldom think about Japan. But Japan went through a very long period of feudal warfare and as a result hundreds of fortress like castles were built. They look significantly different than their European counterparts but functionally they are much they same. They were meant to protect the people inside from all sorts of dangers. This article reviews some of the medieval castles in Japan and talks about their tricks and techniques for fortification.

There are some interesting aspects that you will notice among most of the castles in Japan. Most of them have a shrine at the very top of the hold. And all of them use stealth as another tool in their arsenal of protection. A good example of this is the trick of making the castle look like it has five floors while in reality it has six floors. This missing floor was a perfect place to hide materials and troops from the enemy.

As in any culture that has a long history you can visit many of the sites that pepper the whole of Japan and you can see castles in various stages ranging from pristine and still in the condition they were built, to rebuilt, to just remnants and walls.

There are three major castles in Japan that are considered to be the best examples of castle building throughout the centuries. They are Himeji Castle, Matsumoto Castle, and Kumamoto Castle. If you are visiting Japan and want to experience the best castles you should visit at least one of these three.

Himeji Castle

This is the number one castle in Japan and a must see even if you are not a castle enthusiast. It sits perched upon a hill and because of its dramatic look and white color it is often referred to as the White Heron Castle. It has a very long history and the first fort was built on the site in 1333. The structure, as it currently stands was completed in 1618.

There are a number of unique things about this castle including a complex series of gates and mazes which made it very difficult for attackers to gain entrance to the main fortress. There are also several ghost stories that have grown up around it; the most famous of which is the story of the serving girl named Okiku who was betrayed, tortured, and thrown into the castles well.

Himeji is open to the public and people are given the freedom to roam the grounds both inside and out as they wish. There are also a limited number of English speaking tour guides available. This is a wonderful experience of Japan and about an hour by train from Kyoto.

Matsumoto Castle

This castle is located a short distance from Tokyo so it is a good place to visit if you are not going to be spending a lot of time in the country or if you have budgeted your time very tightly. The keep of this castle was completed in 1504 so it has a very long history. It also is quite dramatic in appearance because it is a flatland castle that is perched right alongside the water, and even juts out into the water. Matsumoto is a great example of stealth in castle building because it is one of the castles that looks like it has five floors but really has a sixth floor that is a secret.

Kumamoto Castle

This is a castle that has a remarkable history. It was originally built in 1607 and in 1877 it was the site for the last remnants of the Samurai revolt and civil war in Japan. Much of the structure was destroyed by fire during the revolt. It spent almost a hundred years in ruins but has recently been rebuilt to its original beauty and opened to the public. The interior of the castle towers is now a museum and it is filled with many of the splendors of architecture and design of the period it was built in. Kumamoto was also used by the famous director Akira Kurosawa in his 1985 film “Ran”.

The whole of Japan is peppered with many castles and you don’t have to stay on the mainland to see them. If you take a trip to the island of Okinawa you can visit some fine examples that are a bit different than those on the mainland.

Shuri Castle

This is a fine example of the development of a structure over centuries. Shuri was the capital of the island of Okinawa and the castle was the seat of government. So it retains not only its massive fortifications but it also has a certain opulence and beauty that one would expect of the home of a ruler of a kingdom. It was almost completely destroyed during World War 2 but since has been totally reconstructed and sites in the middle of a complex site called Shuri Castle Park. If you are traveling to the island of Okinawa this is the one castle you should visit.

Don’t overlook the many Ruins

One of the most interesting things about the castles of Japan is the plethora of ruins that are still in reasonably good shape.

Nakagusuku Ruins

This is a world heritage site on the island of Okinawa that is well preserved. It is approximately 400 years old and while it is in ruins much of the stone structures are still intact and the layout of the castle is clearly seen, particularly in the concentric walls that defended the hold. It sits on the top of a hill and it has a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. This ruin is well worth a visit. And nearby is an authentic Japanese home that is now kept as a museum. It is called the Nakamura house. If you visit Nakagusuku it is well worth it to also visit the Nakamura house which is only five minutes away. It was the home of several generations and is a good example of how the Japanese lived centuries ago.

There are literally hundreds of castles in Japan built over the course of several centuries and in various states of repair. You can visit any part of the country and find a castle or a ruin not too far away. These structures are a remarkable testament to the history of the country. And while they look quite different than their European counterparts they still did the same job in the same ways.

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Where to Get the Best Sticky Rice in Myanmar

Where to get the Best Sticky Rice in Myanmar

Myanmar is famous for its native delicacies. One of the most popular food that Burmese offer to their visitors is sticky rice, also called "kao hnyin". The kai hnyin is a form of sweet and waxy rice that is cultivated in Asian countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Japan, Bangladesh, Thailand, Taiwan, Cambodia and Myanmar. It is probably more popular in Myanmar, and they even celebrate their own Htamane festival or the Sticky Rice festival. The celebration is held throughout the country between February and March of each year.

Cooking Myanmar rice is not that easy. It has to be soaked overnight and then the small pieces of coconuts are fried the next day together with the other ingredients. The rice is then cooked by two strong men who will stir the sticky rice until cooked. It is not a delicacy that the local women can do, especially if they are going to cook in large quantities. However despite its complicated cooking, the sticky rice is still loved not only by the locals, but the tourists as well.

Sticky rice can be found all over Myanmar. Restaurants serving native dishes have the kao hnyin in their menu. The rice is cooked in many varieties, mostly for desserts.

Here are some of the best restaurants in Myanmar that serve sticky rice:

Green Elephant Restaurant- This restaurant is found along Augustine Road in Yangon. It is a classy restaurant that serves an array of all-Burmese delicacies from beef, fish, and duck, as well as chicken and pork recipes. They also serve the rice with mangoes as a delicious dessert. They also have another branch in Mandalay.

Feel Myanmar Food- This restaurant serves mostly Burmese cuisine. They also have different types of sticky rice dishes in their menu.

Yar Pyi Vegetarian Restaurant- This is a family run restaurant located in Bagan, Myanmar. They serve vegetarian delicacies as well as rice meals.

The Strand Grill- Another restaurant found in Yangon, the Strand Grill has excellent food selections including sticky rice desserts. Tourists love this place because of its classy setting.

Aung Thukha- If you are looking for a restaurant that serves entirely Burmese cuisine, then you should try the Aung Thukha restaurant. It is located in Yangon where you can try the real Burmese dishes.

Mr. Bar BQ- If you happen to visit Mandalay, you can try out the Mr. Bar BQ restaurant which serves all-Burmese cuisines.

All of the local restaurants in Myanmar serve sticky rice dishes. Western, European and Italian restaurants may not serve sticky rice, but all the others found in the country will have something that is made from kao hnyin.

Tag : leisure,travel,Myanmar,travel in,travel agency

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Top 5 Easter Holidays For 2009

Avoiding the summer holidays peak season, Easter is a great time to get away and enjoy the best of the top destinations around the globe.

With the Easter holidays just around the corner it's not too late to book a last minute break for you and the family. The recession is hurting the travel industry as well as the consumers which means, if you can afford to be a little flexible, there are some sensational deals to be found.

Below is our pick of the best Easter holidays out there, here's the top 5 countdown:

5. Majorca, Spain
If you like holidays in Spain with sun, sangria and tapas then Majorca offers all of that, plus a little bit extra on the beautiful Balearic island. The island is usually rammed by the time it hits peak summer season, so a spring break is the perfect chance to see some of the hidden treasures of Majorca.

Take a walk in the hills and explore the rugged landscape outside of the hotels and beaches for which the island is famous. Of course, you can spend time on the beach too, and because its low season there's even a chance of getting a sun lounger!

Palma de Majorca cathedral is well worth a visit for the culture vultures.

4. Cervinia, Italy
If you think you've "done" European skiing but can't afford to get over to the States, then take a look at Cervinia. Often overlooked as skiing country, the Italian Dolomites have some sensational undiscovered resorts which are easily the equal of their French and Austrian counterparts.

Cervinia is hooked on to the back of one of Switzerland's most famous resorts, but is considerably cheaper for skiing. Fancy skiing down the other side of the Olympic Matterhorn? Cervinia holds a 2-kilometre run down the other side of the famous Olympic downhill piste. Skiing holidays are rarely this good value for money, and you get all the bonuses of the sumptuous Italian cuisine as well.

3. Larnaca, Cyprus
Most tourists who take holidays to Cyprus will only know Larnaca for its airport before moving on to other parts of the island. However, Larnaca itself has much to offer, with gorgeous stretches of beach and the wonderful Cypriot weather. Treat yourself to a few KEO beers brewed at nearby Limassol, or an authentic brandy sour as the sun sets in paradise.

2. Crete, Greece
Easter Holidays are all about chocolate. Not so in Crete. If you want to spice your holidays with Greek culture, why not celebrate Easter with the locals? Take advantage of the delicious festive biscuits and lose yourself in the spiritually fulfilling candle-lit processions through the many Orthodox Greek churches.

The summer sun in Crete can be quite strong but an Easter break will be pleasantly warm with refreshing breezes coming in from the sea. For those slightly paler travellers this is an ideal place to enjoy your holidays without worrying about sunburn every 5 minutes.

1. Florida, United States
It's still the best place you can go year-round, but especially if you have young kids then spending the Easter holidays with Mickey Mouse and Co. is a magical dream come true. The Walt Disney World resort is the largest and most successful theme park in the world with very good reason - they know their business and can sprinkle fairy dust on to any family holiday.

Easter is a good time to go to Florida it's less crowded than the peak summer season and the weather is more comfortable for children, especially in the long ride queues. Outside of Disney, the rest of Florida offers some fantastic breaks, with no language barrier and a reasonable exchange rate against the dollar, Florida is the number one place to go for your Easter holidays.

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Famous Places in China Throughout History

A whole panoply of attractions span the entirety of this enormous, ancient and diverse nation. China is packed with monuments and artefacts that predate those in most of Europe, Australia and the USA. Despite political upheavals like the Cultural Revolution, such iconic structures as the Great Wall and Potala Palace remain.

More than 2,000 years old, the Great Wall is the best-known and most awe-inspiring sight. It stretches 6,400 km (4,000 miles) across large parts of the country, with its most popular section in Badaling County, Beijing, amidst a beautiful mountain range. It is a myth that the Wall can be seen from the moon, as no astronaut has ever reported this as being possible.

One of the other more famous places in China is the Forbidden City in Beijing, an assemblage of grand palaces where 24 emperors previously lived. The casual visitor would need days if not weeks to visit every room in the Forbidden City, so best to concentrate on the throne room of the magnificent Hall of Supreme Harmony and the 120,000 square metre Imperial Garden.

Shanghai's Bund is a chic, art deco district that was once home to the concessions of the European imperial powers. To its east is the Huangpu River and the Oriental Pearl TV Tower, while on its main drag are the Huifeng Bank and the Shanghai Customs House. JG Ballard immortalized the city in his novel 'Empire of the Sun'.

One of the more bizarre yet also one of the most famous places in China is the Museum of Emperor Qin Shihuang's Terra Cotta Warriors & Horses. As the name suggests, this is a tomb containing hundreds of ceramic models dating back to 210 BC.

For sheer aesthetic beauty alone, Potala Palace is unrivaled anywhere in the world. This 1,000-room complex in Lhasa, Tibet, was originally the home of the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama, currently exiled by the Chinese occupying forces. The palace's architecture merges wonderfully with the natural features of the Red Mountain, which it is built into.

On the Yungui Plateau, the Dian Chi Lake is another of the more famous places in China. Rising almost 2,000 metres in altitude, the lake can sometimes appear to be joining with the sky above it, a curiously wondrous effect that many visitors have commented upon. At dawn and dusk, the sunlight refracts the sunlight in such a way that it embles many silver fishes. Arguably the best view of the Dian Chi Lake is from the West Mountain.

3 of Yellow Mountain's 72 peaks are all above 1,800 metres tall. Its four most appealing spots are the Pine Forest, the Strange Stone, the Cloud Sea and the Hot Spring. It is located in the bucolic Anhui Province.

These are just some of the many famous places in China, with many more located around this unique country.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about famous places in china, please visit China and Tourism for current articles and discussions.

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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.

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.

Holidays to Turkey

As it is very well known, holidays are special times in our lives that help us relax and get away from the stress that our busy lifestyles bring upon us. We sometimes feel the need to get away from everything. Going abroad is a great way to escape. This is why many people in United Kingdom and European goes holidays to Turkey summer months. Turkey is one of the most popular holiday destinations around the world. If you have experienced a holiday in Turkey, you probably know why it is so popular but if you have not, I shall let you know a bit about this paradise on earth which is only a flight away.

Turkey is an extremely beautiful country thanks to its natural resources. It is surrounded by the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Due to this, there are numerous beaches and when they are met with the beautiful sunshine, they create a wonderful spot for a relaxing holiday. Of course there is more than the sea and the sun. There is history in Turkey.

Turkey has been a home to the glorious Ottoman Empire. Even by the traces that are left, you can still feel its glory thanks to all the cultural richness. The city of Istanbul with its amazing location works as a bridge uniting Europe and Asia. It is an amazing city as it preserves the old whilst welcoming all that is new and modern. It is one peculiar place where you can find both the West and the East.

The Turquoise Turkish coasts attract many tourist every year from all around the world. Antalya, Bodrum, Kalkan, Marmaris and Fethiye are listed amongst the most popular family and summer Turkish Holidays destinations. There is too much to see and do in Turkey. You can be filled with the sunshine, experiencing the beauty of the nature, the amazing beaches, countless activities that make the time fly, tastes of the Turkish cuisine which is one of the richest in the world and the amazing culture and the history.

A Turkish holiday can leave you with many great memories. As many people choose to visit again, it is perfect due to various types of accommodations and affordable prices it offers. Let your escape be to the land of beauty; Turkey, a paradise on the face of the earth is only a flight away.

Tag : travel,holidays,turkey

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Leisure Bicycle Tours Are The Way To Travel

any companies offer leisure cycling tours to locations around the world. This article summarizes how you should prepare for your trip.

There are many ways to enjoy travel in a foreign country. Most people think of renting cars, or taking buses or trains everywhere. But because people are following a different routine and are on vacation - they do tend to pack on the pounds. The way to ensure that you will not need to go on a diet after you return from your vacation is to go on a cycling tour. You'll be able to sample the local cuisine all you like, because you'll work off all those calories on your bike!

Cycling tours are offered for every level of bicyclist - from the beginner who might need a "pick up ride" after a while, to the experienced cyclist who can zoom up the hills as if they were weren't there.

Most European countries are extremely bike friendly. Bikes are expected to be on the roads, drivers are familiar with them and give them a wide berth. So it's very safe to bike in Europe. A lot of places in the United States seem to resent the very existence of bicycles, which is why it's always best to go on a cycling tour with like-minded people. You'll be biking through areas that are used to seeing cyclists.

Leisure cycling tours are designed for all different kinds of terrain - from flat and peaceful rides through the beauties of nature to the fitness challenging of the steepest of mountains.

If you'd like to go on a leisure cycling tour, the place to do your research is on the web.

When you're looking for a particular tour, you'll want to compare all the available amenities for each tour.

1) Accommodations. Are you going to be staying in hotels, or in campgrounds?

2) Are meals included? If so, which ones?

3) Will there be free refreshment stops each day?

4) If the tour passes by anything of historical interest, are riders given an opportunity to go look at any sites of interest?

5) Baggage transport. Who handles the luggage?

6) Is their a sag wagon? (This is a car or other vehicle which will come and "rescue" a tired rider or one who has had an accident of any kind.)

7) Do riders receive daily maps and cue sheets that are easy to read and follow?

8) In the evenings, is there someone around to clean your bikes, or is it up to each cyclist?

Depending on the state or country through which you're riding, most of these amenities are offered, unless you're on a budget tour. If you're going budget, it's best to be a very experienced cyclist and already know what you're doing.

Bicycling is a very popular way to see Europe. There are self-guided bike tours as well as the tours offered by companies. It's important to check out what kind of bikes they offer to ride, however. You'll want the best quality available.

Types of Tours

WomanTours is a company that focuses solely on offering bike tours for women. Most of the tours offered by this company take place in the United States, but at least once a year they do offer a tour overseas. You can go on an economy cycle tours of Hawaii, cycle through the Outer Banks of North Carolina, experience the majesty of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and much more. Their website even has a tour blog so you can see the fun that past cyclists have had on their tours.

Some of the major bicycle manufactures have a travel and adventure arm for their customers. For example, Trek Bikes has "Trek Travel." They offer six trip types: classic, explorer, family, family explorer, specialty and weekend tours, in destinations such as Asia-Pacific, Central America, Europe, and North America.

The "classic" tours are designed for riders of all abilities. The "explorer" trips put less of an emphasis on luxury - you'll be camping out in national parks, for example. Family trips are designed to have activities available for people of all ages. And Trek's specialty trips include being escorted by professional cyclists - for example "Classic Climbs of France with Kevin Livingston," or "Texas with Lance Armstrong."

If you're planning on taking a leisure-cycling tour, you must do your research. Find out how long the tour company has been in business, and try to contact some people who've been on those tours so you can find out if anyone had any bad experiences. It's always a good idea to contact the Better Business Bureau to see if anyone has lodged any complaints against them

A leisure-cycling tour is one of the best ways to see a particular region. The more you know and the more preparations you make, the more fun you'll have on your trip.

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Thailand's Top Beaches

Since it became much cheaper to travel by air over the last decade, people have seen Thailand as more of a two-week break holiday destination, rather than merely as a luxury location or a country to travel in the long term. If you're looking for a holiday to Thailand, then take a look at Dialaflight.

Few countries have a coastline as naturally stunning as Thailand's. Both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand boast some incredible tropical waters, rolling onto some of the world's top beaches. Here are some of the top locations:

Patong Beach, Phuket

Phuket has long been held as a luxury escape, and there are some serious property developments and exceedingly expensive pampering retreats if you've got top dollar. For those of us who aren't seriously rich, then it's also home to Patong Beach ? one of Thailand's most sinful bar resorts.

Apart from the vast majority of people being Thai rather than European, Patong Beach wouldn't look too out of place in the Mediterranean. It's got the same sort of bar scene, with Irish pubs and other expat bars, along with a long stretch of beach. If you're visiting, make sure you go to the colossal Tiger complex ? it's possibly the craziest watering hole in Thailand!

Ko Phi Phi Don, Krabi Province

Huge limestone cliffs soar out of the sea and are adjoined by a lowland of beaches that create the living space of Ko Phi Phi Don. Beach resorts really don't get more idyllic than this sea paradise, and the surrounding area is so perfect that one of the islands was used as the setting of The Beach, starring Leonardo Di Caprio.

Phi Phi is a small island, and although you will be amazed by the cliffs and surrounding islands, you probably won't want to spend longer than three or so days here. Just make sure you take a boat tour and check out the beaches, along with partying hard at night at one of the many beach bars.

Ko Phangan, Surat Thani Province

Ko Phangan is the hedonists dream, and home to the world famous Full Moon Party. The island itself is actually pretty big, with 10,000 inhabitants, so if you want to go to the party, you'll need to head down to the southern tip of the island at Haad Rin Beach.

Unless you book in advance, it can often be difficult to get accommodation in Haad Rin around the Full Moon Party date. However, as the island is quite big, there are plenty of idyllic resorts dotted around, many of which are actually more picturesque than tourist focused Haad Rin.

Get on the phone to DialAFlight to secure your flight to Thailand today. Travel to Thailand with confidence and luxury with an award winning flight service.

Tag : leisure,travel,travel agents,travel inn

9 Good Ideas For Enjoying a Romantic Getaway to the UK

The Dragon House Hotel

The Dragon House is situated on the outskirts of the market town of Dunster. It is a short drive to the coastal resorts of Porlock, Lynton and Lynmouth. Depending on whether the two of you wish to explore Exmoor or you choose to simply relax in its peaceful surroundings, The Dragon House Hotel is the perfect alternative for couples. Situated on Dragon Cross, the hotel was built between 1660 and 1704 on this ancient crossroads,. The Dragon House prides itself on their beautiful manicured lawns, fruit trees and arromatic herb gardens. Couples can relax amid the traditional cobble stoned courtyard with a refreshing drink in the summer months or enjoy the comfort of the roaring log fires and leather couches during the winter months. Either way as you step into The Dragon House Hotel you will be warmly greeted and happy you chose to stay here.

The Horn of Plenty

This beautiful and warm country house will have you enchantment as it is nestled in five acres of gardens and orchards. You can enjoy its elegantly furnished rooms in the main house which are decorated in pastel shades that create an aire of luxury. The superbly converted rooms in the adjacent Coach House all have balconies for you and that someone special to enjoy as you overlook the walled garden and beautiful wooded valley. The gardens themselves will delight both of you with their trees, shrubs and quiet sunny nooks. The Horn of Plenty offers couples a tantalising choice of traditional and imaginative cuisine which provide a harmony of taste that graces the palate and adds to the romantic atmosphere.

Three Ways House

The two of you will enjoy this house which was established in 1985 but originally built in 1871. The Three Ways House is privately owned with friendly and attentive service for the couple wanting a romantic getaway. The Three Ways House is fortunate enough to be on the northern edge of the Cotwolds. This very beautiful area is officially designated an area of outstanding natural beauty and is only a few minutes drive from the London's famous West End theatres and Shakespeare Centre. You and yours will especially enjoy a romantic getaway to this destination.

Beechfield House

The Beechfield House provides a uniques getaway opportunity for couples. Its location provides a perfect base from which to explore the region. When you stay at the Beechfield house you can choose a classic automobile in which to tour the region. With one of their classic cars the two of you can cruise the countryside or stay in and simply relax in their delightful surroundings . The Beechfield House boasts of an excellent restaurant; well stocked wine cellar, outdoors swimming pool and a professional beauty and treatment spa to help you rejuvenate. A beautiful four-poster bedroom with views of the garden and woodland views awaits your romantic vacation getaway.

York Minster

A visit to York Minster is to experience a moment in the history of northern Europe's greatest gothic cathedral. You'll see evidence of every age from the Roman occupation of York and onwards to the future of this active and engaging church. York Minster provides a wealth of history to be discovered by the curious visitor. It is an architectural masterpiece as well as a treasure house of stained glass. It is an active Christian community of worshippers where choral music has enriched the souls of visitors for centuries.

Cafe Concerto

This small but quant café in the shadow of York Minster is popular with locals and visitors alike. Its appeal lies in its easy reach to some of York's finest attractions. The dining area has a continental feel and an atmosphere that is lively and talkative. To find jazz music playing in the background is also common at the café. The English and European menu is a mixture of different dishes with international appeal.

The Yorkshire Eye

The Yorkshire Eye s a London-eye style observation wheel soaring 196 feet above the city and offers riders a 20-mile panorama of the surrounding area. The eye has 43 climate controlled capsules for 8 people. The big wheel is one of the tallest structure in York second only to the highest standing structure; York Minster's famous Lantern Tower, which is an additional 40 feet higher. Expect to pay a small charge to board the eye but the views will be enjoy of the city will make it worth it.

The Black Swan

This pub screams with authenticity and history. As soon as you step through the solid oak front door you can see the master craftsmanship and you know you are entering an original and distinguished medieval house. The large stairway constructed in original oak leads off the main hallway to another room with a roasting pit and a giant open fireplace. The house was originally built in the 1400's with the gables being added in the 1600's and the remaining alterations being completed in 1711. They can offer visitors pub style lunches, folk music and limited accommodations.

The National Railway Museum

York has one of the finest railway museums in Europe which has free admission for the public. The National Railway Museum has one of the finest collections of steam trains, diesel trains and electric locomotives. The museum also houses one of the fastest steam locomotives ever made. All of these models are on display for visitors to enjoy.

Bill Whitmire is a freelance writer available for assignments and can be contacted: billwhitmire@live.com

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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.

Apply For a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa and Get the Benefits of Both Worlds

Located 2,000 kilometers southeast of Australia, the island-nation of New Zealand is famous for its unique isolation, lovely and scenic landscapes, diverse population and a thriving free-market economy. Straddling across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand is composed of two major islands, North Island and South Island, along with a number of other smaller islands. Going on a vacation here would be great, however there's also a way for you to go visit and work at the same time. Getting a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa helps you to achieve both objectives.

The island-nation has a population of around 4.3 million people, with 70% of the population here mostly of European descent, along with a large Maori population, which is the nation's biggest minority group. Asians and non-Maori Polynesians constitute the other significant minority groups here. New Zealand's closest neighbors include Fiji, New Caledonia, and Tonga.

New Zealand is notable for being a thriving free market economy. The country's Gross Domestic Product as of 2007 was pegged at $128.1 billion, and it has a significantly high living standard index that is estimated at a GDP per capita of US$30,234. This figure is comparable to the per capita GDP's of Spain and other nations in Southern Europe, but is quite lower than that of the United States. This nation has historically been blessed with a high living standard, owing to its steadfast relationship with the United Kingdom, as well as having a constant and secure market for its commodity exports. Agriculture continues to be the major export industry here, and dairy products account for as much as 21% of total exports. New Zealand's largest dairy firm, Fonterra, accounts for almost 1/3 of the global dairy trade. The country's other major agricultural exports include meat (13.2%) fruit (3.5) wood, fishing, along with a booming wine industry.

For those wishing to avail of a working holiday visa here, it would be nice to know that the service sector accounts for being the largest sector in the economy, followed by the manufacturing and construction sector, as well as the farming/raw materials extraction industry. For starters, a New Zealand working holiday visa serves as a travel permit that allows visitors to undertake employment here, with the purpose of helping supplement the visitor's travel funds. Generally, a number of nations offer these types of working holiday visas, usually under reciprocal arrangements between certain countries. The main purpose of the issuance of these types of travel visas is that it allows for an increase in travel and cultural exchanges between their citizens. Among the countries that participated in the working holiday visa program were Australia, Japan, New Zealand and Canada. The program's initial objectives were to enable young adults to experience living in a foreign country, and do away with the hassles related to finding work sponsorship arrangements or undergoing the otherwise lengthy process of applying for expensive university exchange programs.

There are a number of restrictions for getting a New Zealand working holiday visa. Most of these are age-related restrictions, which bar entry to those below 18 years old, as well as limits on the type of employment opportunities available for travelers, and the length of time that a visitor can be employed. Those who apply for this type of visa also need to know that they should hold sufficient amounts of funding, to enable them to live well while looking for a job.

In availing a New Zealand Working holiday visa, first applicants need to obtain an NZIS form 1085, which refers to the Application for a New Zealand Working Holiday. You may get this through calling the offices of your local New Zealand Immigration office or by requesting for an application pack, as well as by downloading the forms from the official New Zealand Immigration Web site. Once you get the form, complete the necessary requirements, answer the given questions and then provide legal proof of adequate funding at the time of your application.

Jo is a content writer for 'Australian Travel Visas Ltd' (http://www.australiantravelvisas.co.uk), one of the world's leading visa specialist that has a committed sub group that arranges New Zealand working holiday visa. If you are going to travel and apply for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa or if you wish to go through the joy and thrill of living in Australia then you should check out Australian Travel Visas Ltd.

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Bormio Ski Resort - Europe's Snowy Garden

Bormio is indeed a microcosm of Europe. This new ski resort is Europe's snowy garden. Nestled in the midst of the Stelvio National Park, which is adjacent to the Swiss National Park, the new ski resort in Bormio provides the most breathtaking picturesque natural setting. There is a possibility that tourists will forget their skis and cling to their cameras because of the numerous photo opportunities.

However, the beautiful setting is not the only reason why the new ski resort in Bormio is considered a micro-universe of Europe. The place is steeped in culture and traditions. At the old town, the zigzagging streets are lined with genuine trattorias, the Italian taverns that serve food that equal the quality of gourmet restaurants but the atmosphere is more casual and less snooty. Trattorias are usually run by families and printed menus are rarely found. But the best local wines are always available.

The new ski resort in Bormio also reflects Europe's leadership in the hotel industry. The hotels in the area offer luxurious accommodations and impeccable service. These perks are rarely expected from an almost hidden quaint Italian village. The best part for people who are planning to take a vacation in this new ski resort is that the hotel rates are affordable.

Similar to Europe's collage of the old and new, the new ski resort in Bormio has its "old town" adjacent to the "new town." The new town offers state-of-the-art skiing facilities as well as numerous and conveniently located lifts. For beginners, the new town has several ski schools. The Italian instructors are patient and knowledgeable. And there are numerous ski runs that are especially constructed for beginners.

Europe has always been considered to be steeped in history. The same is true for Bormio. The new ski resort provides its visitor access to three thermal centers that were discovered during the Roman times. These thermal centers have a total of 10 hot springs. All around Bormio, there are wine vineyards that carried on the historic European pride of wine making. There are medieval houses, churches, and towers. In fact, many locals in Bormio claimed that the area was first inhabited during the Bronze Age.

All these are just side attractions in the new ski resort in Bormio. The main attraction, of course, is the network of ski runs. There are ski runs for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts. There is plenty of snow due to its geographical location. And this leads to a year-round skiing holiday. People can visit the new ski resort of Bormio at any time of the year to ski, to ride on mountain bikes, to snowboard, and to spend a fun holiday.

Will this new ski resort offer excitement to expert skiers? It is best to visit Bormio during the World Cup Downhill Ski Race.

O.B.S. company is currently working on Italian project, Bormio ski resort It represents Bormio cheap hotels and possible Bormio vacations activities.

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Top Travel Tips For 2009

Watch out for 'No Frills' Fees

Be aware of the latest schemes that 'no frills' airlines come up with to squeeze more money out of you. A new one is paying extra fees to sit next to each other; as well as the more established practices of leaving you miles from the resort, baggage allowances and high prices for a mid flight bite to eat.

Make Sure you're Insured Don't book with a travel operator unless they are ATOL/ABTA protected. Protect yourself further by booking with your credit card and having a sound travel insurance policy. If you really want to make sure your perfect holiday doesn't go up in smoke then book with a brand you trust... who knows which travel agents will still be around in July?

Go Somewhere Different With the pound plunging against the euro why not consider Egypt, Tunisia or Turkey? Then again if you are going to a traditional European resort, this year's prices should make up for any losses on the exchange rate. Leave the iPhone at Home Despite EU roaming legislation, it's easy to get carried away and spend a small fortune on mobile phone fees. Use an internet café to stay in touch or get a local SIM card.

Book Early In the current economic climate, travel operators are slashing prices to reward early bookers. Take advantage of these prices whilst there are bargains to be had. Then at least you can have the peace of mind that you are having a holiday... with the way things are looking for 2009, you're going to need one!

Find cheap holidays at Search Travel Online. http://www.searchtravelonline.co.uk/

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

Great European Museums to Visit

There are several great museums to visit when travelling in Europe. Here are just a few great suggestions if you are planning to be in the following cities:

Art Museums
While there are well over 60 museums in Paris, they focus mostly around the arts. The most popular ones are:

Paris - The Louvre Museum: This is the largest museum in the world. Established in 1793, the Louvre displays several works of western art and is divided by, Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Oriental Antiques, Islamic art, Paintings, Sculptures, Prints and Drawings. It also includes a whole section that is devoted to just the history of the Louvre. (See below to combine your visits with The Order of Liberation museum also located in Paris).

Paris - The Rodin Museum: To view the bronze and marble works of Auguste Rodin (1840-1917). Visitors can enjoy long walks through several large sculptures and gardens.

War Museums
Europe also has many museums that focus around War and Remembrance. Here are a few suggestions for some of the more popular ones:

Amsterdam - The Anne Frank House: Visit the site of the home where Anne Franks life led to her hiding out from the Nazis in a dim annex of her father's jam factory. While is Amsterdam, interested visitors can also look up the National War and Resistance Museum.

Berlin - The Holocaust Museum: Visit a villa in Wannsee, Berlin where the Wannsee Conference was held to discuss a "Final Solution" to the Nazi plan to exterminate the Jews.

Copenhagen - The Danish Resistance Museum: Visit this museum to see various apparatus that the determined resistance fighters used. It also features the long roll of toilet paper with notes about what it was like to live in a concentration camp. Without pens, the letters were formed by pricking holes with a pin. This was then discovered hidden in a vent.

Paris - The Order of Liberation: This is France's second National Order, following the Legion of Honor. Established by General De Gaulle, the Resistance Museum is entered through the Musee de l'Armee.

London - The Imperial War Museum: This museum is a great exhibit of England's military vehicles, weapons, and war memorabilia. It also includes an extensive library that is open Mondays through Saturdays and contains a massive photographic archive, a 20th century art collection and more. It used to occupy the former Bethlehem Hospital for the Insane ("Bedlam") and was originally founded in 1917.

London (Liverpool) - The Beatles Museum: A national museum dedicated to the Beatles. It included an exhibition of some of the Beatles related musical and personal items. Visitors may are welcome to shop at the museums gift shop where many treasures can be found.

Rome - Vatican City Museum: Visit the Vatican museum and see Michelangelo's masterpiece inside the Sistine Chapel. Visitors can also experience St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square. Enjoy watching guards and citizens wearing Renaissance-style uniforms in the bright colors of the Medici Popes. The tour includes boutique shopping and visits to the Castel S. Angelo, The Tapestry Gallery, The Raphael Rooms and the Vatican Library.

Robert has worked in the travel industry for the past 5 years and has been involved in flight holidays, escorted tours, group travel and cruising. Website involvement includes:
MyGroupTour
In Holidays Europe

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10 Marrakech Festivals

Marrakech holds a wide variety of international festivals of all genres as one of the many attractions of the Ochre City. Here is a list of 10 of the best and most interesting festivals celebrated in Marrakech:

1. Marrakech International University Music Festival (FIFUM)

The 6th edition of this cultural event, held in April 2009, showcases several international and Moroccan university musical ensembles from countries like Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, France, Syria, Portugal, Palestine, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Hungary, and Sweden. The FIMUM, with its educational, human and civilisational dimensions, aims at bringing an active contribution to the cultural boom of the Ochre City.

2. Marrakech National Festival of Popular Arts (FNAP)

This oldest of Morocco's festivals celebrates its 44th edition in July 2009 and gathers over 700 artists and 40 troupes from all over the country. Alongside the Amazigh dances and Gnaoua musicians in the spectacular setting of the Badi Palace, the festival also displays other traditional dances and music representative of each region of the country in a wider range of settings throughout the city.

The audience will enjoy duos among great popular modern and renowned Moroccan artists as well as artists and ensembles of the new generations. The best bands are selected from all regions of the kingdom in order to display the richness and the cultural and heritage diversity of each region and, thus, of the whole country.

3. Marrakech International Magic Festival

A wide range of Moroccan and international hugely renowned magicians, coming from Italy, Spain, France, and China participate in the 6th edition of this festival in March 2009. Picked carefully from the four corners of the world, the talented artists that will take part have already been awarded in the most important international magic festivals, like in Las Vegas, Monte-Carlo, Beijing, Paris or Rome.

4. Festival of Dakka Marrakchia

Marrakech's inhabitants still stand up to Western rhythms and celebrate their own rhythm in this 3rd edition of the Festival of Dakka Marrakchia in January 2009. The Moroccan Association of Friends of the Palm Tree (AMAN) has taken charge of the conservation of this Ochre City's musical heritage that reminds us of the city's African roots. This 3rd edition will enjoy the opening-up to the other similar Moroccan rhythms, such as the Dakka from Demnat or that of Taroudant.

5. Marrakech International Laughter Festival

The creators of this festival wish to revive in its December 2009 4th edition the dynamic of laughter and humour and offer young unknown stars the chance to shine. Thus, comedians, actors and singers, as well as TV directors and producers, scriptwriters and mere onlookers, come from all corners of the world, will have a chance to share their interest for humour, laughter and comedy for three days.

Over twenty comedians from France, Belgium and Morocco will participate in this event, which will also hold a competition for young talents. A wide range of shows will be showcased, including one-man-shows and stand-up comedy, animation, burlesque, dance, concerts, games, gags and even shows for kids.

6. SUN Festival - National Youth and Music Festival (FNDJEM)

This 2nd edition of the Sun Festival in June 2009 is an invaluable stepping stone for young talents via competitions, workshops and prize giving. This original, unique and eclectic festival gathers together some 250 young artists and about a hundred top musicians from the alternative Moroccan scene, and will welcome all sorts of styles and musical influences: traditional gnawa musicians, Moroccan and French rap and hip hop, rock music, electro, folk music, pop music, Rn'B, house, fusion, etc.

7. International Contemporary Dance Festival in Marrakech « On Marche »

The 4th edition of this cultural event, held in January 2008, gathered dancers and choreographers from various countries including Spain, Japan, the USA, South Korea, Greece, Ivory Coast, Norway, Iran, Burkina Faso, and France. Besides the actual performances and shows, the festival will offer workshops, round tables and the showing of films and videos on different styles of dance in order to respond to an interest in bringing dance closer to a wider audience and allowing a larger diffusion of the different artistic genres included in the programme.

8. Marrakech International Theatre Festival

The menu of the 5th edition of this festival, usually held in May, includes an international conference animated by eminent Moroccan and foreign professors, round tables and workshops. The event consistently welcomes troupes from all over the world, including countries such as Palestine, Iraq, Tunisia, France, Belgium, Serbia, Sudan, Monaco or Italy. Each edition of this festival is dedicated to a prominent figure of Moroccan theatre to celebrate lives devoted to the progress and diffusion of dramaturgy.

9. Marrakech International University Theatre Festival

The programme of this festival is quite varied and original. Held in November 2008, the 2nd edition of this university cultural event included dance, comedy and drama performed by French, Belgian, German, Egyptian, Russian, and Swiss professional and university troupes, as well as several local and national Moroccan young theatrical companies. Round tables, conferences and workshops complete this festival's attractive offer.

10. Marrakech International Film Festival

The FIFM is the main event devoted to the 7th art in Morocco and quite possibly in the whole African continent, as well as the main and most glamorous international cultural event in the Ochre City. The festival is usually held in November or December and will celebrate its 9th edition in 2009. It gathers together film celebrities from all over the world, and its jury hosts filmmakers, comedians, producers, film personalities and writers. The FIFM is chaired by Prince Moulay Rachid and screens and awards with the Golden Star all sorts of films and short films from all over the world.

So, as you can see, Marrakech's festival scene is varied and of the highest quality, and is one of the many attractions of the city. In order to enjoy thoroughly your festival experience, choose among the best hotels in Marrakech or one of the many charming riads Marrakech has to offer and you will certainly have an unforgettable festival stay in the Ochre City.

David Gonzalez-Company, is a writer, journalist, educator and translator who has traveled extensively and has lived in several European, North American and African countries.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Gonzalez-Murillo