The UK’s popular East Midlands Airport has set out its stall for UK travellers looking for an easy start to their holiday this autumn and winter. Like other UK regional airports in recent years, East Midlands Airport has seen substantial growth and development. This is in a great degree due to the development of new routes by low cost carriers to new destinations. But it is also due to the demands of discerning travellers, who realise increasingly that no package holiday should begin with an exhausting and expensive trip to the so-called “hub” airports in the south or north-west of England.

As the credit crunch begins to bite, such considerations of cost as well as convenience will intensify the need for travellers to look at all aspects of their budget. Hence they will be selecting destinations based on available routes from their local airport to save fuel on driving to a far-away airport, or hotels costs for an overnight stay before departure.

Additionally, the price of fuel is already causing airlines such as Ryanair (who have seen exponential growth in the past decade) to cut back on selected routes. How this will affect customer choice and the ability of some destinations to continue to attract UK visitors is yet to be seen, but experience shows that destinations without a traditional following will be hard-pressed to keep customer loyalty when low-cost travel facilities start to dry up in coming seasons.

Thus in the case of East Midlands Airport, popular but less mainstream locations are being heavily promoted, alongside traditional summer and winter holiday destinations. These include Ryanair routes such as Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands and Faro in Portugal – both popular for traveller traditionally seeking extended summer sun where the weather tends to stay good through to early October. And in the case of Faro in particular – where days of less favourable weather can be compensated by excellent cultural attractions.

Also promoted heavily are trips to Prague from October. The Czech Republic’s capital city has been enjoying a massive boost in UK travel – not necessarily simply due to the growth in stag weekends, but also due to the easy accessibility from regional airports at prices which allow travellers to afford to grab several weekend breaks each year in addition to their main holidays. Destinations such as Prague are likely to continue to attract business for this reason.

Another destination which has always attracted a big UK following is Bulgaria. Again, hardly mainstream like Spain or Greece for Summer holidays, or Austria and France for ski breaks, the destination nevertheless has a loyalty amongst the discerning, who have long since discovered the excellent value for money to be had in this destination in the South East of Europe, with its blue flag beaches, sunny weather and high quality hotels. For the winter, of course, Bulgaria also features its three skiing resorts of Bansko, Borovets and Pamporovo. These are perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers, with Bansko and Borovets being most suitable for advanced skiers. All three resorts have a wide choice of excellent hotels and apartments and excellent apres ski including restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Hence, travellers looking for a ski destination served locally at East Midlands Airport are well served.

Thus East Midlands, along with other UK regional airports, are pushing hard to keep variety, value and choice alive at times when the challenges for holidaymakers and businesses alike are plain to see.

By AYCA KURTBOGAN

The Egyptian pyramids are ancient pyramid shaped masonry structures located in Egypt.

There are 118 pyramids discovered in Egypt as of 2008. Most were built as tombs for the country’s Pharaohs and their consorts during the old and Middle Kingdom periods. The earliest known Egyptian pyramid is the Pyramid of Djoser which was built during the third dynasty. This pyramid and its surrounding complex were designed by the architect Imhotep, and are generally considered to be the world’s oldest monumental structures constructed of dressed masonry.

The best known Egyptian pyramids are those found at Giza, on the outskirts of Cairo. Several of the Giza pyramids are counted among the largest structures ever built.

Egypt Pyramids

The Pyramid of Khufu at Giza is the largest Egyptian pyramid. It is the only one of the Seven Wonders of The Ancient World which is still in existence. All of Egypt’s pyramids, except the small Third Dynasty pyramid of Zawyet el-Amwat (or Zawyet el-Mayitin), are sited on the west bank of the Nile, and most are grouped together in a number of pyramid fields. The most important of these are; Abu Rawash, Giza, Zawyet El-Aryan, Abu Sir, Saqqara, Dahshur, Mazghuna, Lisht, Meidum.

The pyramids have been attracting most people’s attention for ages. They add mystic atmosphere to Egypt which makes the country even more charming.

The Newcastle University Graduate Skills Framework was developed and tested with employers of Newcastle University graduates to determine how important they consider specific skills to be to the future of their business. The results from the 131 organisations that took part show that over 80% of employers consider personal enterprise, the ability to respond to opportunities and initiate change in order to drive continuous improvement, very important or important. In addition 75% of respondents thought the same about commercial acumen, the ability to recognise, utilise and create opportunities in order to contribute to achieving organisational goals.

These results are supported by the recent CBI report ‘ Preparing graduates for the world of work’ (2009). “ Newcastle University Graduate Skills Framework 2007 .

On the 15th December hear how current postgraduate research students, staff and graduates are developing and using enterprising and entrepreneurial skills to progress their career ranging from the application of bespoke training and experiential learning to the start-up of commercial and social enterprises from their research.’

‘Enterprising skills and entrepreneurial behaviour are widely recognised as important elements of success in a wide range of sectors and professions including research. What does this mean for you? How might you take advantage of the ‘culture of enterprise’ and the opportunities it offers to enhance your career prospects?

To answer one question – no, there wasn’t any ships in the port while I was there. (ding dang!) I would have loved it and definitely would have taken pictures and posted them.

I was also asked about how much a person can see during a port stop in Boston. I think it all depends upon how much a person would like to see and how long you’re in port. If you want to do everything — well you can’t. But you can certainly see A LOT with proper planning and a good port-of-attack plan with a minimum of eight hours to do it. If you do your research and know what you want to see and do (and stick to your plan) then I believe that you can see all the major attractions that Boston has to over in a single port stop.

I was also asked to post more photos, so they are below. Enjoy and thanks for the questions!

A sidewalk marker for the Freedom Trail

Downtown Boston near the waterfront

On the Freedom Trail near Quincy Market

Historic old City Hall downtown (see Ben Franklin statue)

Historic neighborhood near Copley Place

Historic Harvard University

More historic Harvard University

Dr Kruz Nutty

Previously, Zest Air would send promos and airline updates via email. I noticed that they haven’t sent me one for the past few months. You would really have to visit their website for promo updates. Fortunately I was able to see some of their refreshing new ideas. They have posted the selling and travel dates for their promos. Moreover, they now offer packages for travelers like me! Check out some of the latest happenings from Zest Air!

Important Zest Air promo sell and travel dates to remember for 2010:

Zest Air New Year Sale

Selling period is from January 3 to 5, 2010

Travel period is from June 15 to November 15, 2010

The Love Seats Sale

Selling period is from February 12 to 14, 2010

Travel period is from June 15 to November 15, 2010

Summer Madness Sale

Selling period is April 1 to 7, 2010

Travel period is from June 15 to November 15, 2010

Mid-year Sale

Selling period is from June 1 to 7, 2010

Travel period is from July 1 to November 15, 2010

Zest Air Annual Sale

Selling Period is August 1 to 3, 2010

Travel Period is September 1 to 30, 2010

Halloween Sale

Selling period is  October 27 to November 2, 2010

Travel period is from November 1 to December 10, 2010

Early Christmas Sale

Selling Period is  November 23 to 30, 2010

Travel Period is from January 15 to March 15, 2011

IMPORTANT NOTICE: For all booking made and finalized before October 16, 2009, kindly click the image for the new flight numbers. It is important that you reconfirm your flight bookings through their hotline or ticket offices within 24 hours prior to the day of your flight to avoid inconveniences.

For those who want to travel stress-free, you simply have to book the package offerings from Zest Air. I believe the package rates are valid until March 30, 2010 and it already includes round-trip airfares, 3 days and 2 nights accommodations, daily set breakfasts and the 12% VAT.  It resembles the packages of PAL called PALakbayan and I guess that’s how Zest Air came up with their new product. So check them out!!!

To book your flights or for more details you may log-on to Zest Air’s website at anytime. You may also call their hotline at +632-855-3333 or email through leadagent@zestair.com.ph.

For inquiries and feedbacks you may email Customer Service Center at customerrelations@zestair.com.ph.

Biyahe na!!!

sursa imagini : 2krota

Frumos  …

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center was the biggest centre and contains the great attractions of the aquarium and marine science centre. This is a very beautiful and nice aquarium. There are also 800,000 gallons of one of the best aquariums and live animal habitats in the country at the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center which is check out our hundreds of hands-on exhibits, outdoor aviary, nature trail, and marshlands. Virginia Beach is very good travel city in the state of Virginia which is the most popular destination, nightlife, sightseeing, restaurant, cheap hotels in virginia beach and one of the most attraction cities for tourists which are beach, the state parks and Back Bay national wildlife refuge beckon, hiking, kayaking, and biking adventures. Virginia Beach is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Chesapeake Bay and North Carolina, and provides miles of beachfront for activities in the Virginia sun.

Australia is a very nice place to test how far you can go. Each states have landscapes or spots that can fulfill everyone’s dream of adventure. Once you start exploring the country, you can tell yourself that the Australian immigration service you paid for are all worth it. There are many ways to enjoy all the privileges of your Australia visas. Australia is a shelter of all kinds of people when it comes to activities. From peaceful to outgoing, simple and ordinary or daredevil.

Sports is one of the main pastime in Australia. And if you want to experience something extraordinary, you should try motor sports. You can be a participant or just a spectator. This includes car racing, motocross, drifting and cart racing. Experience the thrill by watching the games live. V8 Supercars is the most watched motorsport. Australia is also a usual host for Formula One and annually conducts Australian Grand Prix.

Hanging out with crocodiles is probably the most absurd, but satisfying stunt that an adventurer can do. This is where the legendary Steve Irwin became famous. There are so many crocodile farms in the country, following the death of the Crocodile Hunter. You can get as close as you can to the bulky beast of the water. Most of them are found in Queensland where the Australia Zoo, owned by Steve’s family, resides. You can also visit Irwin family’s very own Queensland Reptile and Fauna Park. It is where Steve grew up together with numbers of crocodiles and other reptiles.

You can also go scuba diving to the reef that Australia is very proud of. See the beauty of the underworld by diving at the Great Barrier Reef, Australia’s entry to the New Natural Seven Wonders. Other worthy visits are on the Byron Bay, Abrolhos Islands and many beaches in West Australia and Queensland.

Backpacking is one reason why many Europeans travel down south. In fact, they are the biggest spender in Australia’s tourism industry. We can’t blame them because the country really has an admirable nature. Mountains and forests are worth the long walks and expenses. Backpacking in Australia is great because on your way, you’ll get to see some animals that are exclusive in Australia like Kangaroo, koala and platypus.

A roadtrip to the Australian outback is also a great idea. This is for group of people who want to spend quality time with their family or friends. With just your van or 4WD, you can drive on the unexplored places in Australia and see how unique the nature and life there. You can do it throughout the day and camp just alongside the road. Bring enough food, drinks and other essentials. And of course, bring tents so you can have a safer and warmer place to sleep in.

Other activities that you can try in Australia is water rafting, skydiving, bungee jumping, rock climbing and so forth. These adventures are more than enough to satisfy your body looking for some thrill.

I’ve truly been blessed that my parents are such jetsetters. From Paris to Maui, I have seen a lot. Yet, there is always a longing in me to keep traveling and keep exploring. It also doesn’t help when one of my favorite books is 1,000 Places to see Before You Die (which also now has a blog you can check out here ). So for a couple of years I have been developing my list of places I am dying to go to, and here are my top 5.

1. Tahiti – I am a total beach person. It is my ultimate go-to destination and my happy place. Ever since I was 13, I’ve been begging and pleading with my parents to take me to Tahiti. Something about Tahiti has always appealed to me as so serene, exotic, and soothing. When I make it over there, my dream is to stay in a bungalow over  the water and never leave. Ah… serenity now.

2. Australia- In elementary school, our mascot was a koala, and my third grade teacher was from Australia. Hence, this is where my interest in Australia partly comes from. There is just so much to do and see in Australia. I dream of the day that I get to see the Sydney Opera House in person. I imagine it just kinda takes your breath away kind of like the first time you see the Eiffel Tower or your first time in New York. I’d love to visit the Australia Zoo and perhaps get to pet a real koala or hug a kangaroo (yea… I know that’s probably dangerous). I’d also be totally down for scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef and perhaps see a shark or two.

3. Kenya and Tanzania- Who doesn’t have a wild fantasy to go to Africa? I’m a huge animal lover so one of my dreams has always been to go on an African safari. And, because I watch too many movies I also think it’d be really cool to spend the night with an African tribe. Maybe I’d hike Kilimanjaro or maybe see it from afar and wave to it. In undergrad, one of my best friends went on a medical mission trip to Tanzania, and her stories and pictures just make me want to go even more. So, mark my words, because one day I will go to Africa.

4. Spain- Dude… I’m half Spanish, and I’ve never been to the motherland. Everything about Spain intrigues me. From Madrid to Granada to Toledo to Barcelona, I want to see everything. I want to experience my roots and my culture first-hand. And, not gonna lie… my Spanish grandmother is an amazing cook so I’m sure the food is magic. I’d love to go to Pamplona for the Festival of San Fermin and watch the running of the bulls (from a safe distance), or go to La Tomatina in Bruñol for the huge tomato food fight. Maybe, spend a night in Sevilla and watch some Flamenco. Oh Spain… one day we’ll finally meet.

5. Brazil- So, even though I lived in South America for eight years, I never visited any other countries. I’ve always felt some type of pull towards Brazil for some reason though. Not only am I a big fan of soccer and beaches but the culture looks so fun-loving and welcoming. Sure I’d love to go and experience the madness that is Carnival but I’d also be down for bringing in the New Year on a Brazilian beach decked in all white with other locals. I’d also love to go trek into the rainforest… as long as it’s not spider season.

So there’s my list. What are some of your dream destinations?

 Oh hello, didn’t see you there. Anyway, this is my first video:) Whooooo mee:) Prague, Czech Republic and a neighbouring city, Pardubice. I was there this past August with my dear friend, and photographer Christine Novak. Some of the photography is done by her, and some by your’s truly. It’s a bit blurry at first but the ending is perfect so if you have any tips of how to fix it, I WILL GLADLY ACCEPT THEM. Otherwise, not saying this video is very informative, but if you wanted to get to know me a little bit better, to understand the beautiful culture of the Czech Republic, and to get a small taste of what I would say is perhaps one of the craziest party cities in Europe… Then this video is for you:) Enjoy!

P.S. BEWARE OF OBSCENE BRITISH BOYS… Ladies you will enjoy this more than the men:)

I will answer any questions regarding the touristic attractions, the history, the nightlife- touristy and locally, as well as where to find the best beer:) Even Toronto Star agree’s on that one!

Happy Travels

Train Travel in Canada is the Rocky Mountaineer. Family Travel in Canada is Train Travel in Canada.

Train travel on the Rocky Mountaineer starts in British Columbia, one of North America’s queen cities.
The Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tour is a two-day train trip in a glass bubble train making train travel through the Canadian Rockies a close and personal experience with beauty and nature.

Train Travel in Canada on Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer is very much luxury travel.

Gourmet meals are served on the train. Drinks and elegant deserts on this train travel trip winding through the dramatic the Rocky Mountains.

The Train travels through the Canadian Rockies and overnights in Kamloops, a cowboy town and a rather memorable adventure travel experience.

The Train Travel ends in Calgary, one of the the best Family Travel destination in Canada. Some say, Family Travel in Canada is Calgary.

It’s a two-day spectacular train ride from Vancouver in British Columbia through the Canadian Rockies in a glassed-in train is a first class experience with elegant cuisine and unforgettable vistas of the grand Canadian Rockies.

Ocean city is beach great attraction and more entertainment city. Here the every kind of amenities is available. Skyscrapers, restaurants, amusement parks, beaches, inns and hotels cause the big attractions of the city.

The city is recognizing for its attractions and more entertaining places. Every year many of visitors visit in the city. In city the there were many of cheap hotels and other lodging amenities were available.

The city looks so amusing and more entertaining. The city was full of recreations and other adventure activities. And transport facilities also so admirable. The other separates walking path also to get walking enjoyment. The city the peace and no hustle and bustle there. The boardwalk the attraction and more restaurants, shops and other places at the beach front and there enjoyed the water recreations. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum that was in the boardwalk there contain the big shark embedded on the outer wall. And represent the big attractions.

The ocean city was such so most vacations days entertaining city. And night life of was city also to enhance the attractions of the city. The look so youth full and more magnetized to every one. In ocean city the vacations lodging ocean city boardwalk hotels

The visitors can best attractions lodging amenities in the ocean city and this is become the most recreational area.

Ocean City Invite Tourists with New Lifestyle

Maryland which is known for sea and mountain activities in United States. In this state visitors meet with a lot of opportunities to meet with life adventures. But the interesting thing of this state is that to enjoy all these life adventures hotels can be reserved that provides great facilities to enjoy them from very closest to us. Ocean city is a popular oceanfront alternative city on the shoreline of Maryland. This city attracts so many visitors for many things like clean beaches, boardwalk, convention centers, amusement parks, and cheap hotels in ocean city that can get from best travel sites. But to get them at exciting offers, desired locations to meet with favorite places from closer will be grateful for trip. We get them such type of hotels from any lodging that give a list of ocean city hotels and from same we also reserved our hotels at previous destination. Entering to this city skyscraper cheap hotels attract us very much.

New attractions and entertainment beckon around almost every corner. The hottest thrill attractions. Treats for kids of all ages. A romantic dinner for two. Beloved classics, Disney Characters, dining, parades and fireworks galore are just waiting your visit.Give you a list of places in and around Orlando, which can be labelled as tourist attractions.he ordinary tourist is the beneficiary of this fierce competition, and this year is no exception with many attractive tickets online and  parks adding new sections , rides.

You can get more information about this attraction by discountsdwtickets.com  SeaWorld is one of the big attractions of Orlando and they opened a new roller coaster that takes the rider from the heights of the sky right to the surface of the sea and below.

Darayonan Lodge

Darayonan is a Cuyonon word that means a place to stay. The lodge is situated in a residential part of Coron town, strategically located along the National Highway. Darayonan Lodge aims to provide its guests with clean and comfortable rooms, good food and quality service. Aside from that, one has options on choosing the rooms to stay at: in the native bamboo, sawali and banig set-up or in the modern concrete and tile two-story building.

Darayonan Lodge is an accredited tourist inn by the Philippine Department of Tourism. It has played host to a number of VIP’s and celebrities, the most notable of whom are Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and then U.S. Ambassador Francis Ricciardone.  In fact, Congressman Baham Mitra was amongst the guests of the lodge during our stay from October 21-24, 2009.

What is striking about this place aside from its homey atmosphere is the owner’s love for the arts. It definitely is a reflection of the owner’s strive in achieving perfection in everything. From the lodge’s interior decorations to the food being served for each meal. He personally goes over every little details right before being served or handed over to the guests. We stayed here for 4 days and 3 nights; and it was a part of the overwhelming positive experiences that I have had during my stay in Coron, Palawan.

The place is clean all the time! They see to it that the rooms and private comfort rooms get cleaned everyday during your stay. They also make sure that the entire lodge is spic and span all throughout the day. I have never seen any litter at all in my entire stay.

The facilities in this lodge pass the normal standards of travellers: hot and cold shower, all air-conditioned rooms, centralized water system. It’s like you never left home at all. I’ve had a comfortable stay at this lodge.

It’s also probably the only lodge that includes breakfast for two along with the daily room charge. And what’s more, drinking water and coffee is unlimited, no extra charge. I should say that staying at Darayonan is really a value for your money.

Darayonan Lodge has facilities and amenities as follows:

Cafe which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner

Choice of fan or air-conditioned rooms

Queen-sized beds, single-sized beds plus two extra beds if necessary

21″  colored television sets on all their rooms

Refrigerator/Mini Bar

Closets

Writing desk cum dresser with mirror

Bigger rooms with higher ceiling

Bigger bathroom

Veranda

Darayonan Lodge not only offers bed and breakfast for travelers. In fact, they also  arrange tours/trips for you so you’d have a grand vacation for you or your family or even with your friends.  They have enticing packages which includes everything (accommodations/rooms, land transfers from and to Busuanga, food and tours) and you won’t have to worry a single thing about your vacation. Every single detail of your vacation will be taken cared of  at rates that would suit your budget. Group or barkada packages also await travelers who  wish to visit Coron in groups or together with their families and loved ones. Darayonan Lodge does not have a website at this point in time. So if you like to get price quotes for your stay with them, you may get in touch with the owners through these contact numbers:

Chin Fernandez owner of Darayonan Lodge

Location:  132 National Highway, Barangay Poblacion 1, Coron, Palawan

Cellphone: +639178811151

Landline: +6327443209

Email: dipulao@gmail.com

La Bella Vita, which translates to ‘a wonderful life’. Rome, Italy has forever held a soft spot in my heart, ofcourse it is nothing compared to my first love for the Italian city of Venice, but Rome has managed to rank 2nd place. Italy is my homeland, it is my native tongue, and I have been to Italy over 45 times, give or take a few. This past summer, I visited Rome with the family and this is the true city of love… (who ever said it was Paris, was seriously disturbed).

Now its time to pack your bags once more, but this time the only essential you’ll need for Rome is a nice glass of wine, some fancy shoes, a fragrance of perfume or cologne to make anyone die for and your set<3

On a Greek Island holiday, you will soon realise that there are numerous islands to choose from including Corfu, Crete, Kos, Cyclades, Dodecanese, Skiathos, Epirus, Euboea, Ionian Islands, Macedonia, North-East Aegean, Peloponnese, Saronic Islands, Zante, Sporades Islands, Sterea Greece, Thessaly, and Thrace.

Most of these destinations offer scuba diving, sailing and other water sports, as well wonderful beaches. Many British holidaymakers spend their holidays in Greece and in the Greek Islands and it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations. When you spend your holiday on the Greek Islands you can expect brilliant sunshine, family-run tavernas, friendly resorts, fine beaches, and interesting excursions, sparklingly clear water.

Everyone will find something that they are looking for during their Greek Holiday. You can stay in a small and tranquil fishing villa or one of the many busy resorts with more nightlife activities. Many that come to the Greek Islands are there for the charming tavernas, traditional food, and a relaxing atmosphere at the beach. Planning your trip to the Greek Islands is not only a great idea for the family but also the budget as well.

Deciding on which Greek Island to take a holiday on depends on the things you want to do whilst there. For a relaxing option, try the islands of Lesbos, Samos, Kefalonia or Syros. The charming unspoilt Meganissi and Ithaca, traditional Lefkas or small, scenic islands like Alonissos, Paros, Kalymnos, Thassos or Paxos are great for a quiet holiday at the beach.

However if you want a more continuous Greek island holiday then Rhodes could be your destination. For those who are looking for a little more excitement in their holiday vacation then they will want to hit Kos and Mykonos, whose nightlife is un-compared. For those wanting an pretty holiday destination, then Corfu and Crete are the destinations to suit. These destinations have a variety of holiday events and an encompassing choice of landscapes. For shopping fans there are bright white villages and landscapes in Santorini and Naxos that make a shopping excursion both unique and refreshing. Greek Island Holiday getaways are great for getting fresh air and much needed exercise while having a pleasant time. If you are planning a holiday in either late or early in the season then you will find that many of the islands will be covered with beautiful wild flowers. The countryside will be green and lush, with the mountain terrains breath taking and awe inspiring. You could also go for one of the many water sports available including scuba diving and sailing.

Copyright (c) 2008 directline-holidays.co.uk

For the climate, for the culture, for the golf or for the stunning natural beauty; it’s not hard to see why Portugal has long been one of the world’s favorite holiday destinations.

Blessed with stunning natural beauty and year-round sunshine, Portugal offers crystal clear seas and a wealth of activities to suit even the most discerning world traveller.

The Portuguese coastline is a holidaymaker’s dream. Frequently hailed as one of the best golf destinations in the world, high-end resorts and world class courses sit side by side with an abundance of health and wellness spas that make the most of the scenery and tranquillity on offer.

For the adventurous, Portugal offers some of Europe’s best deep-sea fishing as well as every kind of water sport an enthusiastic tourist could dream of. But it’s where the ‘rolling plains end in unspoilt beaches’ that’s the real attraction.

The Portuguese coastline boasts nearly 200 Blue Flag beaches, many hidden from the main tourist trails by sheltered coves or decorated by countless colourful boats in picturesque fishing villages like Sesimbra – which also doubles as the fashionable weekend retreat of ‘well to do’ Lisbon families.

Alongside all the sunshine, beaches and activities – not to mention the glorious climate – Portugal’s history and heritage can almost be overlooked. Almost. From its Moorish legacies to modern day Lisbon, Portugal combines the past and the present with a timeless elegance. Whether you’re a history buff or simply in need of some old world culture, you can choose from UNESCO World Heritage sites like the magical cliff top village of Sintra or simply take in the quiet charms of historic towns like Guimarães, Évora or Angra do Heroísmo.

More than anything, it’s the pull of a more sedate and relaxed pace of life that bewitches visitors and keeps bringing them back for more. Perhaps it’s no wonder that over a third of Portugal’s tourists hail from the UK with many choosing the laid back lifestyle of evening strolls on the promenade at Sesimbra or the café terraces of Porto as ideal holiday home destinations.

Given all that Portugal has to offer it’ll come as no surprise to know that tourist figures have risen dramatically over the last decade – extending well beyond the traditional Algarve destinations. So what now for the future?

The world wide economic woes of 2008 have hit tourist figures in Portugal as they have in many other destinations – although gross guest numbers for the first eight months of 2008 are actually up on the same period last year. It’s clear that the hey day of cheap flights and even cheaper properties has gone; but while hotel stays from international tourists have fallen by around 4%, the home grown market has blossomed – attracting almost 4% more overnight stays from Portuguese citizens in 2008. It seems that the Portuguese are increasingly discovering Portugal for themselves and helping to keep tourism as one of the country’s most important industries.

Portugal is almost uniquely blessed by the perfect climate and stunning natural beauty but it offers much more than just golf resorts and beach holidays. Even the government’s plans for the promotion of tourism in Portugal realise what makes ‘Europe’s west coast’ so special. They’re focusing on four factors: ‘climate and light,’ ‘history, culture and tradition,’ ‘hospitality’ and ‘diversity.’

Four great reasons to visit any country.

We traveled to southeastern Missouri the weekend before Halloween and were “treated” to great foliage. Our first stop was Hermann, Missouri.  We ate lunch and checked out the Gasconade Co. Courthouse, which sits high on the banks of the Missouri River, the only courthouse I’ve ever seen perched next to a river. 

Gasconade Co. Courthouse, Hermann, Missouri

We then toured the Stone Hill Winery and, of course, tasted a “few” samples of their award-winning wines. The tour was very interesting and informative. I had no idea that this winery was the second largest in the nation before Prohibition.  After Prohibition — well, they had to start growing mushrooms to make a living.  The cellars are apparently the perfect place to propogate ’shrooms.  Today, however, the cellars are again filled with barrels of wine aging to perfection.  The smell (and as we discovered later – the taste) was delicious!  We had never visited a winery and really enjoyed the tour.

We then traveled to Bass’ River Resort located near Steelville to check into our cabin. Upon our arrival, we discovered the Courtois Creek had swelled out of its banks and was practically up to our doorstep.  Well, we were pretty high up, but the water was just below us. 

The next morning started off foggy, a great opportunity to get some photos. I have to thank my husband for telling me it was foggy out – I hadn’t even looked outside! I experimented with different exposures and tried not to overexpose because of the sun shining through the bright fog.  Using my histogram was definitely the ticket to help me find the correct exposure in these conditions. I tried to capture a sunburst but even at F22 I just couldn’t get it pinched down enough to work successfully.

The flooded creek was also cause for some excitement when the tour riders for the Berryman Epic started out.  Because the creek was so far out of its banks and so deep, the riders couldn’t safely get across on their bikes, so they brought in flat-bed trailers to haul them across. 

It was quite a sight!  My husband said in all his years of mountain biking, he had never seen anything like it.  Fortunately, by the next morning when he raced, the water had gone down considerably and they placed a trailer across the deepest part of the creek to use as a bridge and had no need for the “ferry service.”

Back to Saturday… After the tour riders were ferried across the swollen creek, we took off on a back road to get to the Onondaga Cave near Leasburg. We got about 5 miles down the road and ran smack dab into a flooded creek crossing that had been barricaded. So much for the scenic back route! We re-traced our steps and took the main highway to the cave.

Suffice it to say, the Onondaga Cave was awesome! Our group consisted of probably around 30 people, ranging in age from about 10 up to around 90. The cave was cold – around 57 degrees – so we had to bundle up a little bit. The first thing we saw were tiny, delicate formations called soda straws that looked like – well, soda straws! Eventually soda straws turn into stalactites.  Some other formation types represented in the cave were flowstone, draperies, canopies, stalactites, stalagmites and columns.

The Twins

King's Canopy

 Some of the other named formations we saw were the Twins, King’s Canopy, Queen’s Canopy, and the Devil’s Shower.  There was a river running through the cave which is named “The Lost River” because apparently the experts cannot figure out where all the water sources come from.  The river was a blue-green color and didn’t appear to have much of a current, but once in a while you could see particles drifting along on the surface that contradicted that.

The best formation was saved for last. It was called the Lilly Pad Room, which was divided into two chambers.

Lilly Pad Room

Lilly Pad Room

It’s called the Lilly Pad Room because some of the formations look like lilly pads.  The water in one chamber was especially cool – very vibrantly colored.  The other chamber looked almost alien like with white “drip cups” abounding. I almost wondered if some being was going to pop out at us.  It was really amazing what Nature has created in this cave.

After the cave tour, we ate lunch and took a 3 mile hike on one of the trails at the park. The part that followed the Meramac River bluffs was very scenic; the sun was shining bright and the foliage was brilliant.  It was a great day to be outdoors and enjoying Nature at her finest.  The day wrapped up with a barbecue at the Resort for the bikers, complete with a roaring bonfire.

Vibrant foliage on the Berryman Trail

Zoom zoom!

 Unfortunately, it then started to sprinkle on and off. I did stay out for quite awhile and took some foliage shots near the trailhead, and even experimented with catching the riders with different shutter speeds as they zoomed by.

I finally went back to the Resort and the finish line, and just a few hundred yards away, found this wonderful little creek scene with foliage in the background and fallen leaves in the foreground. 

Small creek on grounds of Bass' River Resort near Steelville, Missouri

I started to walk up the trail to check it out, but then the skies finally opened up and the rain was too heavy to continue so had to pack away the camera.  My husband finished the 56 mile race in a little over 6 hours. He would have finished sooner but his chain broke a few miles from the finish line and repairing it cost him about 15 minutes.

All in all, we had an “epic” adventure in Missouri!

Am ajuns la Notre Dame in Ziua Armistitiului, 11 Noiembrie, care celebreaza armistitiul semnat de Fortele Aliate din WWI si Germania, incheiat la Compiègne, in Franta. Este zi libera si inca de dimineata mi s-a parut ciudata letargia de pe strazi … Chiar ma gandeam ca m-am cazat intr-un cartier extrem de linistit, insa ma aflat adevarul abia la receptie … Tipul de acolo m-a indemnat catre Champs-Élysées, spunandu-mi ca este o parada … N-am stiut ca este atat de importanta incat au fost prezenti si Sarkozy si Merkel, altfel m-as fi dus …

Am ajuns insa la Notre-Dame, si am avut surpriza placuta sa descoper ca intrarea era libera, si surpriza neplacuta sa descoper cersetori romani, inconfundabili … Catedrala este incredibila, iar acustica este exceptionala … AM asistat un pic la slujba tinuta cu ocazia comemorarii Primului Razboi Mondial … Erau acolo un cor si niste fete religioase din Anglia … A fost frumos, s-au cantat ceva cantece religioase de care nu aveam habar , dar mi-au placut … Am dat ocol, insa nu am urcat la etaj, salasul lui Quasimodo, am senzatia ca era inchis … Trebuia sa ocolesc si sa intru pe undeva prin lateral, dar nu era miscare deloc acolo sus …

Nu cer ei bani la intrare dar au grija sa nu te lase sa iti faci griji ca pleci cu buzunarele pline de acolo … Am aprins o lumanare din aceea mica de aluminiu si era 2 EUR … Nu te obligau sa dai bani , lasau la alegerea ta sa lasi suma ceruta … Mai grav erau la candelele de genul celor aprinse de romani de pasti si pe care le iei cu 4 RON … La ei erau brandate cu NDdP si erau 5 EUR … Daca te lasa constiinta sa dai … Iar la iesire am dat de niste popi cu cutii in mana … Pentru bani, bineinteles …

Am iesit si am trecut Sena spre malul stang , stand cu saptele la catedrala, pe podul din dreptul intrarii … Acolo am gasit cateva magazine de souvenir-uri, unde preturile erau mai acceptabile decat la Turnul Eiffel … Adica nu faceai infarct instantaneu, ci dupa cateva minute, eventual dupa ce plateai …

Din pacate am sters filmul, pentru ca am pastrat memorie pentru poze, dar, la un moment dat, am filmat corul englez din catedrala cantand “God save the Queen” … SENZATIONAL !! … Insa NIMIC nu se compara cu corul suporterilor englezi de fotbal sau rugby … Nici un cor profesionist, nici Notre Dame de Paris, nu pot egala fenomenala voce colectiva a 50,000 de oameni cantand in acelasi timp imnul national … Nu se compara

Here are our additional photos taken during our Coron Island hopping. Enjoy!

]]> http://besttravelplaces.wordpress.com/2009/11/21/top-tourist-destinations-of-south-india/ Sat, 21 Nov 2009 07:28:17 +0000 samlinkexpert http://besttravelplaces.wordpress.com/2009/11/21/top-tourist-destinations-of-south-india/

South India is one of the top most tourist destinations of India, which is rich in cultural heritage in India. It is home to various dance forms, superb sculptures and Hindu temples that depict the rich cultural heritage of southern states of India. Tour packages of South India enable you to taste the spiritual aspect of the country along with experiencing the various places that are plentiful with scenic beauty. These include sun-kissed beaches, temples, monuments, hill stations, wild life and Ayurveda centers. There are several places to visit while you take the South India Tours in India.
Here are some of the important places of the South India tours:
Bangalore
Bangalore is known for its historical buildings as well as modern edificies. It is also called as the garden city of India. New architectures include State Legislature and the Secretariat. You can also visit the Tipu Sultan Palace, which showcases Mughal rule in South India. The palace has now been converted into a museum for the visitors. One of the most impressive architectures of the modern world in Bangalroe is the ISKON temple that is an amalgamation of modern architecture with Dravidian style. The Lal bagh Garden is yet another must-see tourist site that is very attractive in Bangalore.
Mysore
Mysore holds a treasure of impressive buildings, grand palaces, beautifully laid gardens, sacred temples and a rich heritage of South India that is uniquely charming. There are several tourist spots like the Amba Villas Palace, Maharaja Palace and Chamundi Hills that quite attractive. Brindavan Gardens in Mysore are surely to be visited that are rich and lush green gardens playing musical fountains that enthrall the onlookers.
Nagarhole
Nagarhole is yet another popular tourist destination that is visited by many tourists around the year. One of the major attractions is Kabini River. Take a leisure ride on boating on this river to have a great fun-filled ride on silent waters of the river. There is also a National Park at Nagarhole, which you can visit by booking a jeep.
Conoor
Conoor is a romatic hill stations and many tourists frequent this tourist spot all round the year. It is one of the most popular getaways for the international tourists and spells romance in the air on the hills of Nilgiris laden with tea plantations. You can also enjoy your time watching birds or visiting the botanical gardens.
Cochin
Cochin is the natural harbor city of South India and is included in all South India tours as an important tourist destination. You can enjoy the natural harbor as well as the rough seas and its scenic view that are surrounded by Hindu temples, Portuguese churches and also mosques. Chinese fishing nets are one of the major attractions of this place.
Kerala
You can enjoy the peacefulness and tranquility of backwaters in Kerala that encompasses scenic beauty and absolute serenity. Enjoy your trip in a houseboat floating on cool backwaters and enjoying swaying coconut trees. There are numerous Ayurveda resorts that should be visited at least once during your trip, as Kerala Ayurveda is one of the most important aspects of the place.
Madurai
You can visit Alagar Hills, Meenakshi temple and Tirupara Kundran Rock Temple in this historic city of Madurai.
Mahabalipuram
Mahabalipuram was established by Pallava rulers of South India as the city of 1000 temples. There are at least 124 existing shrines for different deities and their wall paintings tell tales of rich cultural past. Visit the temples of Kailasanatha, Ekambaswara, Varadarajaswamy and Sri Kamakshi. Enjoy the rock temples and pagodas in Mahabalipuram, which are major tourist attractions.
Other important tourist destinations of South India tour are Tanjore, Kanchipuram, and Periyar that are also worth visiting during your South India tour.

If you are planning your next vacation in South India, learn about more cultural richness of this part of the country to enjoy your visit to the maximum. Visit pragematravels.com for all required information and detailed history.

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