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.

Heathrow Airport Hotel Guide For The Leisure Traveller

Heathrow Airport London is the busiest international airport in the world. Around 35% of its passengers are transit passengers, i.e. passengers that are just using London to make connections.
Just one reason why there are nearly 40 airport hotels at Heathrow serving the local demand for overnight stopovers.

For many of these hotels the businessman with an expense account is their bread and butter. This article seeks to address the leisure traveller, providing a guide to getting value for money locating a bed at Heathrow.

We’ll start off by dividing the hotels into three categories.
There are the large 4 and 5 star chain hotels like Hilton, Radisson and Sheraton aimed at the businessmen, typically charging $US200 during the week, half that at weekends.
Then there are the 2 and 3 star hotels, again mostly chains, like Comfort Inn, Ibis and Premier Travel Inn, aimed at the leisure traveller and the businessmen on a budget. These will typically charge just over $US100 during the week, about $US75 at weekends.
Lastly, there are the small independent local hotels, mostly family owned who offer cheap ‘bed and breakfast’ style rooms. These have the cheapest accommodation.

Room rates can seem good value, especially at weekends when the businessmen are away and everyone deep discounts to fill beds. However, beware, what the hotel doesn’t get in room rates they’ll try and get out of you in other ways.

There are no hotels in the central passenger area where Terminals 1, 2 and 3 are located, though there is a hotel linked to Terminal 4 on the south side of the airport – the expensive Hilton Hotel, not for most leisure travellers.
This means a bus transfer, and unlike most international airports there are no complimentary hotel transfer buses. The airport authority provides ‘Hoppa Buses’, mid-size buses that run every 10-20 minutes on fixed routes to Heathrow Hotels. At 3 GBP per person per journey, thats an extra $US20 for a couple staying at a Heathrow Hotel.

Most hotels will charge anything from $US10-$US30 for breakfast, and at most hotels there isn’t viable competition outside the front door. Dinner is similarly expensive and entertainment is largely limited to an expensive bar.

So, tips for the leisure traveller trying to economise.
Look for a hotel on the Bath Road, this is the northern perimeter road of Heathrow Airport and the main hotel strip.
Public buses run more frequently than the Hoppa Buses along the Bath Road into Heathrow Terminals, and they’re free. (The fees from the Hoppa Buses are part used to subsidise the free local buses).
The Bath Road is the only location where you can escape your hotel. There is a pub serving meals, 2 McDonalds, a bowling alley, a small supermarket and an Italian Restaurant that can provide breakfasts, snacks and meals on the Bath Road. There are also 24 hour public buses running to local towns Kingston and Hounslow for entertainment.
Taking the above together, the benchmark for the leisure traveller is the Ibis and Premier Travel Inn hotels.

The other local option is to consider local Bed & Breakfast hotels. These do not provide an airport transfer but many are on the periphery of the airport on a bus or underground route. Their room rates are similar to the budget hotels but this includes a hearty breakfast and the transfer is still cheaper than the Hoppa Bus.

One other option is to forget Heathrow altogether and overnight in Central London. The Heathrow Express takes just 15 minutes to London’s Paddington Station and there is lots of cheap accommodation around the station. You’ll certainly have a more entertaining evening in London than at an airport hotel, and at a similar overall price.

To find out more detail about the topic of this article:

Heathrow Hotels

Hotels Near Paddington Station London

Bob Handford is an expert about his city, London and is the owner of the website London Hotels Toolkitthat aims to provide practical information for independent visitors to London. You can contact Bob direct at the web site

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

12 Things to Do on Your Next Visit to the UK

The Changing of the Guards at BuckinghamPalace
On your visit to the UK a must stop is Buckingham Palace to witness the changing of the guard. The soldiers that guard the palace and other locations perform a traditional drill to change the guards that dates back to 1485. To be considered for guard duty at the palace you have to be one of Britain's finest soldiers. The guards protect the grounds of the palace and other locations as well as guarding the Sovereign. The Household division of the guard division is responsible for guarding Buckingham Palace. If you god to St. James Palace you can have your picture taken with one of the guards to show all your friends.

The JewelleryMuseum in Birmingham
In 1981 the owners of the Smith and Pepper manufacturing company decided to cease operations and closed their doors. Inside the factory everything remained at is was the last day of business leaving the remnants of a museum in the making. Today guided tours are given in the museum for those fortunate enough to visit this piece of history. When you visit the Jewellery you can see live demonstrations, first hand jewelry making techniques, workshops and exhibits. The museum offers a rare glimpse into a piece of UK history.

The London Eye
The London Eye is an observation wheel that offers riders a 20-mile panorama of the surrounding area. Soaring 196 feet above the city the eye has 43 climate controlled capsules suitable for 8 riders. 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 London Eye guarantees to excite and thrill you at the same time.

Barber Institute of Fine Arts
If you would like to see the great works of art produced by some of Europe's greatest artists then a visit to Barber will be a pleasure for you. The Institute, a Robert Atkinson design, was built by Queen Mary in 1939 and is located at the University of Birmingham has features an impressive collection of art and coins. The Barber Institute has received many honors over the years including a Bronze Medal by British Architects. Visitors can listen to lectures, browse galleries and participate in workshops. A visit here can be both pleasing and educational for the fortunate traveler.

The Tower of London
Prized as on of London's oldest palaces, the tower has served also as a fort and prison. Created by William the Conqueror in 1078 it was known as the White Tower. In the 12^th century a moat surrounding the tower was constructed by Richard the Lionhearted. The tower has functioned as a living quarter, fortification and prison for many royal members. The architecture is fabulous to see and will provide a great exhibit for those who visit.

York Minster Gothic Cathedral
A visit to York Minster is to experience a moment in the history of northern Europe's greatest gothic cathedral. The Minster is an active Christian community of worshippers where choral music has enriched the souls of visitors for centuries. 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. On your visit to the Minster you'll be both surprised and awed by its beauty and architecture.

Stonehenge
A visit to mysterious Stonehenge will prove to be a delight for all. Dating back to 3000 B.C. the stone structure was used for religious and burial purposes. Although the monument dates back to the 3^rd millennium stones used to construct the circular wonder. Recent discoveries have shown that the monument underwent various design changes and additions throughout the centuries. A visit to Stonehenge promises to be thought provoking and intriguing for explorers.

Glastonbury Festival
For those rock and rollers at heart a trip to the Glastonbury Festival may be a flashback to another time. With its beginnings September 19, 1970, day after Jimi Hendrix moved on to rock n' roll heaven, the festival continues to carry on the tradition. If you want to meet all kinds of people, of all ages, backgrounds, nationalities, lifestyles, faiths and musical taste a visit to the festival is a must. You'll never be the same again!

The Birthplace of Shakespeare
William Shakespeare was born at Stratford-upon-Avon and his home is available for visitors to tour. In a house owned by his father William spent his beginning years. Today the many homes where Shakespeare lived out his life are preserved and are also available to visitors. The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust maintains the homes to promote the appreciation for who they see as one of the world's greatest dramatist. A visit to the homes and museums of this great historic figure will be enriching for all.

The TateArtGallery
The Tate Gallery actually comprises four galleries; Tate Modern, Tate Britain, Tate Liverpool and Tate St. Ives. The collection is so large they have to spread it out over four galleries! Take a trip through these galleries and you'll be indulging in everything from painting and sculpture to surrealism and beyond. The Tate Art Galleries have some of London's finest art treasures on display. Plan a visit here on your next trip to the UK and enjoy some of the finest art exhibitions the UK has to offer.

The Home of the Beatles
Liverpool is the home of the Beatles and a visit here can have you walking in the footsteps of one of the most successful and influential bands of all time. You can visit the Institute where both Paul and George went to school or the College of the Arts where John Lennon went. An array of nightlife where you can retrace the steps of the stars is available. Don't miss out on this opportunity to visit some of the stomping grounds of the Beatles.

The Royal Festival Hall
A fantastic venue where you will sample some of London's finest music is The Royal Festival Hall. The Hall is located on the South Bank Center in London and has everything a sophisticated visitor could desire. Ongoing performances can satisfy your every entertainment craving. Whether you prefer classic opera or the Wizard of Oz the Royal Festival can accommodate you. There is a wealth of performance and visual art and artists at the Festival for your enjoyment.

Bill Whitmire is a freelance writer living in Portland, Maine and can be contacted: billwhitmire@live.com

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

Paris With A View

The Paris underground system resembles London’s ‘fine’ service and provides transport that can show you the sights of romance in a rush. But why miss the charming bits in-between for the crazy, crammed rush of underground transport, when you can see all the same places on a hop on hop off bus with a more pleasant view as you travel and without the ruckus of asking directions with only what you remember from your high school French class. After all, we don’t arrive at a holiday destination to slip back into our home discomforts. The Parisian streets offer a tranquil sense of culture that London often fast forwards in its constant state of rush and with the audio commentary of the Paris hop on hop off bus Paris hop on hop off bus you won't miss a minute of anything and wont be caught in the wave of commuters, far under the ground that carpets the splendor of the city.

Paris proves to be the classier version of our beloved London. In Paris, Oxford Street transforms into the upscale Champs Elysees, Big Ben becomes the spectacular Eiffel Tower and St. Paul’s Cathedral turns into the mystical Cathedral of Notre Dame. All of which, and more, Paris’s hop on hop off bus tours can take you to, with a one or two day tour plan and all of which you can book before you leave London, leaving you with peace of mind while you travel.

The sights and sounds of Paris should not be missed by underground transport around the city. Apart from missing the atmosphere you would be missing a culture that the tour bus would not let you miss. Paris offers pleasantness wherever you go. You are more likely to breath in the scent of freshly baked bread and hear a poetic native tongue, compared to the polluting fumes of London and aggressive tone that strangers often take to one another. The Paris public transport service does not compare to the comfort and surety of a hop on hop off Paris bus tour for the real French experience.

By: M Rippy

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

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.

Eurostar Vs Low Cost Airlines

Eurostar trains operate on a high speed line between London and mainland Europe, stopping at destination in France and Belgium. Figures for the beginning of the year indicate that more and more travellers are becoming attracted to this mode of transport with figures up twenty five percent.

A major advantage of travelling with Eurostar is that they run on time, with punctuality figure reaching almost ninety-four percent. A report in the Telegraph newspaper earlier this month demonstrates that this is nowhere near the case with British airways, who ranked 22nd out of 29 as one of Europe's poorest performers for punctual arrivals and even worse at 23rd for departures. This is not the story of every airline and Flybe has outperformed many of it rivals with a punctuality record on its London to Belfast route, but the figure of eight seven percent is still a long way short of Eurostar's record.

London St Pancras International is a very convenient station to arrive at with no less than six underground links and seven mainline links connecting directly to it. Ebbsfleet International is situated just off junction two of the M25 and therefore convenient for those living in South East England, and there is also a free to this station and Ashford International on connecting Fasttrack buses and South Eastern trains. However it is not always as easy to find an airport close to home that is flying to the destination of your choice.

Booking is fast and easy with Eurostar who initiated Railteam, which is a joint venture between Europe's top high-speed train operators, and Railteam network is fast expanding which can only lead further improvements.

Today, many people have concerns for the well-being of the environment and many are starting to base their travel choices based on environmental concern. Additionally the new green rules, which demand planes to burn less fuel, are being viewed suspiciously because they might cause planes to crash.

All in all, Eurostar has a number of clear advantages over travel by low cost airlines, especially having partnered with Friends of the Earth to work together on the development of the Friends of the Earths, The Big Ask campaign and Eurostar's, Tread Lightly scheme.

Eurostar have made good progress in their initiative to reduce its environmental impact and ticket sales increased twenty five percent in the first three month period. An independent survey by "YouGov" shows that our views about travelling are changing, that we are starting to take action and expect others to do so as well.

Copyright (c) 2009 directline-holidays.co.uk

Combine quality hotels and low cost flights for unforgettable Eurostar city breaks. Search directline-citybreaks.co.uk for all the latst prices & offers.

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

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

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

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

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

How to Choose a Ski Chalet For Your Ski Holiday

Resort

When you pick your resort - you should take your group's skiing experience into consideration: do you have lots of beginners? Intermediates? Experts? If you have a mixed ability group, then you need a resort with lots of options - something for everyone. Les Houches, for example, is a little known resort in itself - ideal for mixed groups as it is predominantly blues and red, with great beginners areas - however, it is also ideal placed in the Chamonix valley for experts to experience the blacks of Grands Montets and some of the best off-piste in Europe! If you are all expert, think about La Grave or Chamonix.

Budget

The country you choose to visit may depend upon your budget. The "newer" ski resorts in Bulgaria will be cheaper for accommodation, food, lift passes, etc. Though 37% of all skier still choose France. Switzerland and Austria hold some of the most expensive options - the price reflecting how well known the resort is: Davos, Gstadd, Klosters, Kitzbuhel.

Your budget will also affect the quality of the chalet available to you. Put simply: the more luxurious chalets cost more. If you find an amazing deal with flights and transfers included, in a chalet whose photos look amazing - be sure to check the photos were actually taken in that chalet, and are representative of it! Wide angle lens can make rooms look bigger than they are. Professional lighting may have been used to disguise the pokey room in the attic. Ask how big the actual rooms are! If food is photographed, ask whether it was a "stock" photo? - or did they take it themselves?

Self-catered chalets often cost less than being catered - but be careful about false economies. Ask the following questions: how far is the local supermarket? Is it within walking distance? If not, you may need a car or bus.

Owner-run vs managed chalets

Owner-run chalets tend to differ from managed chalets in that the chalet hosts will most probably care more for the chalet as it is their home and business. They may also care that you enjoy yourself on your holiday - as repeat clientele are very desirable - much more than some ski-bum just-out from college fancying one more year of the easy life before having to join the "real world".

The days of spag bol are long gone - these days, catered chalets can rival restaurants in terms of quality and diversity of food.

If the chalet offers a "professional chef", ask about their experience and qualifications. Did they run a top-notch restaurant in London or did they used to work as a sous-chef in the "White Horse" working mens club? Also, especially with the managed chalets, chefs work to a very closely-controlled budget. You also run the risk of them quitting immediately before you arrive having decided chalet-work was not the endless days of powder snow they imagined, but harder work than as a full-time chef in the UK!

If it is owner-run, ask about their cooking experience - how many years have they cooked for their guests? What is their favourite dish? Owner-run chalets may be more willing to alter menus to suit your groups dietary preferences. So, just because a chalet is owner-run does not mean the food will not be as good. Many owners have years of experience cooking 4 course meals for 10 people every night, or take courses to improve their culinary skills.

Facilities

For the best holidays, chalets where you can both ski in and ski out provide you with the most time on the piste, and the minimal amount of fuss and time wasted. You save time because you don't have to wait for transport to the lifts at the start of your day, nor hanging around for transport back to your chalet when you've finished. This is especially useful if you are a beginner or you get tired early

With ski in, ski out chalets, you also get to avoid those "short walk to the pistes" which in fact may turn out to be a much longer walk than you anticipated... Even a short five minute walk can be difficult when you are wearing ski boots, trying to drag the kids complaining about their ski boots being uncomfortable , whilst simultaneously trying to carry both their skis, poles and your own!

All in all it leads to much more stress-less holiday if you have the ability to ski in and out of the chalet. Plus it means if you forget anything - suncream, gloves, etc - you always have the option to easily return to fetch them.

Does the chalet have a hot-tub? For a little luxury, it is very pleasant to sit out under the stars sipping a glass of champers or a beer. If you are looking for a chalet in summer, don't forget to ask whether the hot tub is on and available? Some chalets empty their hot-tubs in the summer months.

Don't forget the log fire! Is the firewood included in the price? What entertainment is provided? Is there a television? Can you receive English tv? Is there a selection of DVD's? If so, how many? Can you plug your ipod in?

Are all the bedrooms ensuite? If not, how many bathrooms are there? How many showers? How is the water heated? Is there endless hot water? Do the bedrooms have views? If so, of what? Do all the rooms have a view, or only a few of them? These are the types of questions to ensure that you don't have any unpleasant surprises when you actually arrive. There is nothing worse than looking forward to your holiday only to be disappointed because your travel company neglects to tell you that it is a ten-person chalet with only enough hot water for six showers - and three of the five bedrooms are three times smaller than they appear in the photos and face the construction site next door!

Leighton Ellis runs a luxury ski chalet in Chamonix Valley and hopes you have a fantastic ski holiday.

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

Puerto Vallarta: The City of Festivals

After Puerto Vallarta found its way onto the international tourism map following the release of “The Night of the Iguana,” the city became a meeting place for artists, musicians and anyone seeking a cosmopolitan destination amongst incredible natural beauty. As a result, numerous festivals have developed in Puerto Vallarta, celebrating everything from independent film to haute cuisine. Throughout the year, these events welcome awestruck visitors from throughout the world and add to Puerto Vallarta’s standing as one of Mexico’s premier destinations.

Inspired by the legacy of director John Huston and his film, “The Night of the Iguana,” the Puerto Vallarta Film Festival of the Americas brings together the best independent films and documentaries from North and South America each year. Similar to the Cannes and Sundance festivals, the Puerto Vallarta Film Festival of the Americas features more than a week full of screenings supported by lectures, workshops and parties. The festival takes place each year during the first or second week of November, immediately before the beginning of peak tourism season. Families visiting Puerto Vallarta on a strict budget should consider traveling during this period as travel costs are lower, the weather is great and there is certainly plenty to experience.

Families visiting Puerto Vallarta in the weeks before the beginning of high tourism season can also participate in the city’s acclaimed Gourmet Festival. For 14 years, the Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival has brought together some of the world’s best chefs and the finest fare Mexico has to offer. Often, Michelin-star chefs collaborate with local restaurants to create unique menus inspired by the culture and scenery of Puerto Vallarta. Most of these dinners, along with the cooking classes and tasting events, are open to the public. The Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival usually takes place during the second and third weeks of November, occasionally overlapping with the Puerto Vallarta Film Festival of the Americas.

The May Cultural Festival has become a prestigious tradition in Mexico’s Jalisco state, reaching towns such as Zapopan, La Barca, Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta. Though a number of the headline performances take place in Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta puts on a number of exhibits and performances by international artists. Each year, the festival honors a foreign country by welcoming the visual artists and musical performers that represent the finest each nation has to offer. This year’s festival was dedicated to Germany and featured concerts by the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra and gallery exhibits by up-and-coming German artists. Though the schedule for next year’s festival has not been announced, visitors will have a chance to experience the cultural sites of Puerto Vallarta, accompanied by the finest music and art from another unique culture. The May Cultural Festival takes place each year during the entire month of May with most major events scheduled during the final two weeks.

Puerto Vallarta is also home to the world’s newest contemporary art festival. Known officially as Puerto Vallarta: Arte Contemporaneo, the festival is designed to bring together the work of Mexican and international artists. This year, the festival focused on artists from the United States and Mexico and featured panel discussions on issues as diverse as globalization, extended borders and the cultural identities of Mexican artists working in the United States. Many of the artists featured in this year’s festival exhibited work at prestigious venues such as the Whitney Biennial and the Tate Modern in London. Puerto Vallarta: Arte Contemporaneo plans to return next year during the final weekend of May with larger exhibits and more special events.

The local art scene is celebrated each year in November during the Festival de las Artes. During the final week of the month, nearly all of Puerto Vallarta’s art galleries stage elaborate openings and events that welcome art aficionados and curious travelers alike. As much of the work on display belongs to Mexican artists, including many Puerto Vallarta residents, many of the artists are on hand at the events to discuss the trade with art lovers. Now entering its 12th season, the Festival de las Artes is one of the best ways for tourists to experience the vibrant art scene of Puerto Vallarta. Best of all, most of the events during the festival are free of charge.

Though all the events mentioned here take place in either November or May, there is no shortage of similar events throughout the year in Puerto Vallarta. When accounting for Puerto Vallarta’s incredible scenery and cosmopolitan flair, it is no wonder that the world’s best flock to the city each year. When you come to Puerto Vallarta, plan on visiting some of these festivals where you can interact with remarkable artists, chefs and filmmakers while enjoying the lush backdrop of one of Mexico’s premier destinations.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=282062&ca=Travel

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.

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

Paris Hideaways Presents Top 5 Tips on Booking a Vacation Apartment in Paris

Paris Hideaways offers top rental tips for choosing the right vacation apartment for your trip to the City of Lights.

The advantages of a vacation rental apartment in Paris over a hotel are countless: you will save hundreds if not thousands of Dollars, Pounds or Euros, you will have the opportunity to live like a local, and you have the privacy and freedom that are missing from the hotel experience.

Choosing the right vacation apartment for you can be a time-intense task, so Paris Hideaways have created a list of top tips to help you choose the right apartment for your trip to Paris.

Top Tips for booking the right Paris vacation apartment rental

1. Do your homework

There are countless numbers of agencies in Paris renting out vacation apartments. Research the agency, and read reviews of each agency on Trip Advisor, Frommers, Lonely Planet, Virtual Tourist and other travel forums. Compare prices from various agencies, who often offer the same apartments at different rates, so you might be able to get the same apartment cheaper at an agency which charges less commission than another agency with the same apartment.

2. Book early

Paris is the world's number one tourist destination hands down, with over 30 million visitors every year. The Christmas/New Year season sees prices jump 20% due to sheer demand, and the months of May and September are very busy due to fashion fairs and exhibits in Paris, so be sure to book far in advance during these times.

There are possibilities for last minute discounted rates for vacation apartment rental bookings, so if you can be flexible and are traveling to Paris at short notice, it is worth checking with agencies to see if there might be discounted apartments available.

3. Trade romance for realism during your apartment search

During your accommodation search, trade your romantic visions of Paris for a realistic view of the city's accommodation options in order to ensure you find the right apartment for you, as many visitors' expectations of what it is like to live "à la Parisienne" in a French apartment may very different to what you are accustomed.

When choosing to go to Paris, it also means visiting a city several hundred years old. While the authenticity and history of the buildings and monuments give Paris its charm, if you are looking for comfortable North American style accommodation, you might consider a 4-star hotel chain that you know and trust.

Any trustworthy agency has checked out as many of the apartments it makes available as possible, and the best agencies will make sure only to work with reliable owners and only include apartments up to highly acceptable levels of cleanliness. Your apartment should feel like your own apartment, not like you are staying at stranger's home who happens to be out of town.

4. Decide on your deal-breakers

Are you after size, view, number of beds, amenities, location or budget? Is this a honeymoon? An anniversary? Tell the agency. They are likely to know what to advise for the perfect getaway according to your needs.

Some apartments will be top-notch and top-quality, but also top floor of a building. Parisian elevators can be small and almost claustrophobic, if there are any elevators at all. Are you willing to climb up flights of stairs? Ride in small lifts? Even the best vacation apartment rental agency might over look small intercultural differences like these if you don't ask, as they are used to the Paris way of life. So don't be afraid to ask.

Can you live without air conditioning in mid-summer Paris? Is there a washer in the apartment and can you live without one if not? For those on business, wireless internet access inside the apartment might be essential, so make sure to indicate that during your search.

5. Pay attention to payment method

The payment options might make or break your decision to book with a certain agency. Some agencies might require full rent and deposit up to 30 days in advance, while others might require full cash payment on arrival and a check for the deposit which would not be cashed unless actual damage was done to the apartment. Some agencies will have the owner of the apartment meet you at your vacation rental, while some might require full payment and then send keys in the mail. You should never make any payments by W estern U nion or to an unnamed recipient no matter how good the deal.

6. Prepare your arrival

Post-booking, contact the owner as soon as the agency provides contact details and make sure you get a response from the owner. Give the owner your contact details to reach you when you are at home, when you are traveling, especially if you will be elsewhere in the days before your arrival. Once in contact with the owner, as him or her if they have a welcome pack he can send you ahead of time, if they know a good place to eat nearby, the best way to arrive to the apartment via public transport or taxi, and any other questions you may have before your arrival. The owner should be happy to help you make the best of your stay.

If you consider all of your needs and your price range and research the vacation apartment agencies far in advance, you will find the right apartment in the location and price range that you most feel comfortable with. The best advice to give is just to ask - ask in travel forums, ask friends for advice, and ask the vacation apartment rental agencies themselves, who should be very happy to help you find the perfect place for your stay in Paris.

Notes to editors:
Paris Hideaways is an entity of Charming Hideaways Ltd, and is registered and based in London.

Katia Provencher is the Director of Charming Hideaways, and has several years' experience in the vacation rental and tourism business, including being vacation rental owner herself and also having been a long-term resident of Paris.

Photography is available on request.

For further details on Paris Hideaways vacation rentals, please call + 44 (0)208 144-5887, via Skype - Parisrental, email contact@paris-hideaways.com or visit http://www.paris-hideaways.com

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