Wednesday, December 30, 2009

How To Organize A Great Vacation In Italy - Tips On Sicily Island

Author: enrico

Source: articledashboard.com



A tour around Sicily offers you different types of experiences and emotions: beaches, volcanoes, natural parks and a trip across its millenary history made by ancient Romans and Greeks.

Where is the Sicily island?
Sicily is the biggest island in the Mediterranean sea, at the south of Italy.

How to arrive in Sicily?
There 3 possible way to arrive in Sicily: By plane, there are 2 main airports in the cities of Catania and Palermo; By Boat through the strait of Messina; By train, using the trains that starts from Rome, Milan and Naples (Eurostar)

How to get around the island?
You can get around by train, that connect the main cities (Messina, Palermo, Catania, Syracuse); By car, using the freeways, A18 Catania-Messina, A19 Catania-Palermo, A20 Messina-Palermo; By bus, the have departure centers in the main airports and the railways stations

What are the best places to visit?
The best tourist attractions are: * Agrigento, on the southwest coast, with its Greek temples * Cefalu, seaside town at the east of Palermo * Enna, 1000 meters high city...the highest of Europe * Erice, a little medieval town * Etna, the tallest active volcano in Europe * Marsala, the heart of wine-production * Palermo, the capital of Sicily * Segesta with some excellent Greek ruins. * Syracuse, on the southeast coast, with its Greek theatre. * Taormina, with a beautiful Roman-Greek theatre * The Alcantara Gorges, a natural park in a volcanic river * The Nebrodi Park, a natural reserve full of forests * The Aeolian islands, 7 little island of Volcanic origin * Catania, a mix of historical evidences, churches and museums

What are the top beaches to choose?
* Mondello Lido (Mondello), near Palermo
* Mortelle, the best sands in northeast Sicily, near Messina
* Spiaggia Sabbie Nere (Vulcano), a "Black Sands Beach" in the Aeolian islands
* Lido Mazzar๒ (Taormina), the best summer resort of Sicily
* Giardini Naxos beach, near Taormina
* Marina di Ragusa, on the southeasters Sicily

What are the best activities to practice?
You can practice different activities like Trekking, Wine tours, Bicycle trips, Sight-seeing, Winter sports on the Etna mountain, horseback ridings, scuba diving and much more...It depends on your budget and the period you choose. i.e. in the summer months the best things to do are swimming the in the waters of the coast; in the autumn months the best activities are trekking on the Sicilian natural parks and in the winter the queen is Mount Etna where practice Skiing, alpine skiing and much more...

How to find trusted accommodations?
There are different kind of lodging services to choose, it depends on your budget, the period and the activity you want to practice. You can choose between a great selection of like Hotels, Bed and Breakfast, Camping, Farm, Villas, Apartments and Resorts. The best ones are situated in the cities of Catania, Palermo and Taormina








Monday, December 28, 2009

Orlando - The Perfect Vacation Destination!

Author: Joe A Laing

Source: ezinearticles.com



M-I-C-K-E-Y...is that what comes to mind when you think of Orlando? You're right, Disney's theme parks are a great part of our vacation appeal, but there are dozens of other adventures waiting in Orlando!

Orlando Family Fun Ideas

The first time you come to Orlando, it may be for Disney-with six Disney parks to experience, there's something for every member of your family. But did you know Orlando boasts plenty of family fun outside Walt Disney World? For example, the kids will love Wonder Works, a crazy upside-down lab packed with interactive science exhibits.

For up-close encounters with alligators, visit Gator Land on the edge of the Everglades. This nature preserve, theme and water park hosts one of the largest collections of alligators in the world.

At Sea World Orlando, deep-sea creatures and fantastic rides will vie for your kid's imaginations. Here's one more thrilling way to get back to nature-take the family on an air boat ride through the Everglades. Imagine the excitement of watching wildlife just a few feet away!

Families with teens are sure to find boredom-proof attractions here, too. Why not let them experience skydiving, without the risk, at Sky Venture? An actual (safe) two-minute freefall is sure to get their attention!

Orlando's Romantic Side

We recommend all couples take the time to visit Orlando. The romance of the tropics strikes a spark all by itself, but there's also a marvelous array of intimate excursions for two. The Kraft Azalea Gardens, for starters, provide a lush backdrop for romantic strolls. Don't miss thousands of late winter azaleas in this gem along Lake Maitland.

For duos who love to dance, Orlando's the perfect nightspot! From salsa clubs to The Roxy, you'll find plenty of dance floor action while you're here. Head for International Drive to find just the right rhythm, and don't forget the seven dance clubs right on the Disney properties!

Here's another idea; candlelit dinners beckon from many of Orlando's restaurants. You can even take an evening trip on the Rivership Romance. This cruise winds for more than three hours along the St. John's River. Enjoy their great cuisine, entertainment and dancing as well as scenic views by moonlight.

One last tip for Orlando romance-check out the city's numerous day spas, including the Disney venues. Many offer luxurious packages for couples; the perfect way to relax with someone special.

Orlando for "Seasoned" Travelers

There's one more group that's going to love Orlando. Seasoned "senior" vacationers will find plenty to enjoy in Central Florida. Definitely explore the beaches-you'll find some great ones within an hour's drive, including Cocoa Beach, Siesta Key and Clearwater.

And why not enjoy Disney as adults? Imagine getting to choose what you'd like to do, all day long, without having to humor the kids! The shows, including Cirque du Soleil's La Nouba, are just part of the multi-sensory experience.

You'll find plenty of fascinating shops, restaurants and entertainment in Orlando and its suburbs, too. Uptown Altamonte in Altamonte Springs features street entertainers and lots of shopping possibilities. Here's another hint: Old Town in Kissimmee is a great place to take the grand kids. Whether it's fine dining, people watching or outdoor adventure, older travelers can enjoy it all in Orlando.

The Orlando experience can be unique for every traveler. Don't settle for a cookie cutter vacation! Plan the trip you want, then head for the pleasures of Central Florida.





This article was written by Joe Laing of El Monte RV, your source for RV rentals. An RV is an excellent way to start off on your next vacation in the Orlando area. Be sure to check out the El Monte RV website for more information about Orlando RV Vacations and Orlando RV Rentals.




Sunday, December 27, 2009

Central America Travel Vacations

Author: bestworldtravel

Source: articledashboard.com



We have numerous other articles written on this very subject. Each one tackles a different aspect of this complex topic.

inner America is a great travel position. With its combination of strong record and great lovely views, inner America will surely charm any voyager that books a voyage.

Guatemala starts off the tilt of travel acne in inner America. The Maya ruins in Tikal, Guatemala surely helps in this countrys mounting tourism. Considered as one of the worlds prime Maya ceremonial nucleuss, the Tikal Maya ruins are the position for many excavation and archaeological discoveries that would fascinate any voyager to inner America. It has been supposed to house a population of 50,000 people pending it was abandoned by the Mayans for reasons no one knows sometime in the 10th century. The positions trait temple pyramids that are elaborately worked and intended. Other impessive Mayan ceremonial positions can be found in Uaxact?n, Quirigu?, and Mirador. vivid Mayan fabrics can be bought as souvenirs for their travels in inner America.

Costa Rica is another travel spot in inner America that no one should taunt forget. plentiful in nation, Costa Ricans frequently celebrate festivals in tribute of their client saints. This is one occasion that voyagers to inner America should put in their must listen tilt. Travelers in inner America will have a lot of climbing to do as one-third of the countrys land part is sheltered by reforest. One of those that are open to tourists is the Braulio Carillo citizen square. The Velvetworm is another spot of fascination in Costa Rica and a scientific marvel that will fascinate voyagers in inner America. Found in the countrys enormous fall forests, it has the characteristics of both the place-legged animals and the segmented worms.

As you continue to read this article, pay special attention to how parts 1 and 2 relate to one another.

The boater passage is another noteworthy inner America travel acne. union the Atlantic and the relaxing heap and connecting the Caribbean Sea with relaxing, the vessel is about 82 kilometers long. A impel that was happening by the French but was later abandoned, the US government unbroken the impel when it gained construction rights in 1903. It was opened for transfer on 1914 and it was only in 1999 that boater gained sovereignty over the vessel. In addition to boater City, boaters prime cities are Col?n, David, Santiago, Penonom?, and Chitr?.

El Salvador has also a lot to agreement the inner America voyager. One travel destination is San Salvador, its assets, which is striking with a strong nation and architectural elegance. ruined mainly by earthquakes, lovely parks, present buildings, and plazas have now been erected in place. El Salvador is also home to the Santa Ana Volcano, which is the record spot in the country.

Honduras, another inner America travel country, boasts of great beaches and resorts. Like Guatemala, it also has its Mayan ruins located in the northwester part. Copan, another ceremonial nucleus of this obsolete civilization is one of the record archaeological positions in this part of the world. People in Honduras are also fully artistic and one of the accepted spaces that voyagers in inner America should stay is the teach of thin Arts in Comayagua.

Definitely not the last on the tilt is Nicaragua, whose accepted inner America travel spot would be the tick Coast. These interior parts are sheltered with fall forests. The part, in detail, receives the record fall of all in the county.

Knowing the ins and outs of this topic will help you to fully understand the importance of this entire subject.








Saturday, December 26, 2009

Choosing The Best Hotel

Author: David Brights

Source: articledashboard.com



You can check some of these issues if they are important to you. * Ask around and consider their customer service record. What ratings have they received from independent rating organizations? * Evaluate their franchise for consistency. Many Hotel's are franchised so you'll want to see how the particular location fits into the Hotel's chain. Find out how the chain rates this particular property within their organization. * Consider their Hotel policies, are they favorable to you or do they penalize you in some way. * Find out what partnerships they have that could save you money in other areas. Many Hotels have agreements with airlines, rental car or credit card companies. * See if they credit your frequent flyer or frequent guest programs with points. * Check the Hotel Chain's locations. Does their Hotel chain have locations where you travel? Do they have international locations? * Check the individual hotel's location. Is their airport hotel really close to the airport? * Evaluate their facility. When were the rooms last remodeled? Does it have the types of features you need? How well does it suit your need for the quick overnight stay or the weeklong resort vacation? Do they have business suites or meeting rooms available if you need them? Does the particular Hotel you want to stay in located in a safe part of town? Is any major construction going on in the area around your Hotel's location? Will there be any large groups staying at the Hotel that could negatively impact your stay? * Do they offer the types of extra services you need? Do they have a concierge, shuttle or laundry service? * Can they honor your special requests? * See if they offer a Premium or Loyalty Club that feature the services you need. * Check to see if you belong to any groups that entitle you to a special deal with a particular Hotel. * Consider their rates and the availability of any coupons or discounts. See who offers the best overall deal for your budget.

Tips For A Safe Vacation

It is summer, time for the annual vacation trip. If you will be driving somewhere for your vacation this year there are some precautions you can take to make your journey safer.

Whatever the season it is a good idea to keep an emergency car kit in your vehicle. These items can be packed in an old diaper bag or duffle bag. The following items are recommended to have available:

# An old towel ท
# Pair of working gloves ท
# Bottle of fix a flat ท
# Large screwdriver ท
# Pair of pliers ท
# Can of WD40 ท
# Jumper cables ท
# Wheel chock ท
# Emergency road flares ท
# Flashlight and extra batteries ท
# Rubber hammer ท
# Short-handled shovel or spade ท
# Old scarf or piece of rope ท
# Small bag of cat litter or rock salt ท
# Fluorescent safety vest ท
# Some type of nonperishable food and bottled water ท
# Cigarette lighter ท
# Basic first aid kit ท
# Bottled water for the car ท
# Two bread bags and four rubber bands (to keep your sleeves clean ท
# If you live in an area prone to cold or blizzards keep a warm blanket in your car ท
# Cell phone so you can call for help

Before you leave there are several things to check to ensure a more hassle free vacation trip. ท
# Check wiper blades and replace if they are worn. Clean them with glass cleaner or windshield wiper solvent to remove accumulated oily road film. Check the windshield washers and fill the reservoir with solvent. ท
# Check all lights. Signal lights, brake lights and emergency flashers are important means of communication with other drivers. Make sure both high and low beam headlights work and are properly aimed. ท
# Check the radiator and cowl (area on your hood just ahead of the windshield) for leaves and other debris. ท
# Check antifreeze and cooling system. Inadequate antifreeze can cause the car to overheat in the summer. Is the radiator pressure cap in good condition? ท
# Belts and hoses should be checked for cracking and wear. ท
# If your brakes make excessive grinding, squealing, screeching or chattering noises it is a warning they need attention. Inspect your brakes to see that they are free of corrosion and operating properly. ท
# Have your air conditioning evaluated before you have an expensive break down far away from home. ท
# Check tires for proper pressure. Temperature changes can affect air pressure. Proper inflation will maximize your gas mileage and save wear and tear on the tires. ท
# Windows need to be clean and in good repair. If the windshield is cracked or chipped have it repaired. Keep it cleaned of bugs and road film by cleaning it regularly with windshield wiper solvent and a clean paper towel or cloth. Keep the rear window clear of luggage, toys, camping gear, etc. Reduced vision can cause an accident.
Keep a good pair of sunglasses available. When the sun visor isn't enough you will need sunglasses that provide ultraviolet protection and do not distort vision.

Get your car a complete tune up several weeks before you are due to leave on vacation. If any necessary maintenance turns up you will have time to get it taken care of. Tell them you are planning a trip and want everything checked; tires, belts, fluids, etc. Have a comprehensive inspection done. Many conditions do not show up in a cursory checkup. You and your family's lives will depend on this vehicle performing well. Don't take chances or skimp on their safety








Thursday, December 24, 2009

Family Vacation - Some Useful Tips For You and Your Family Members

Author: Derek Leroy

Source: ezinearticles.com



The family vacation is a great time for almost all families around the world, because there will be a different atmosphere they will obtain in the time of togetherness with the lovely people in a different place than just a home. The vacation will be unforgettable and will be the perfect way to be closer to each other, especially if we know about what to do along the vacation.

That will be the most valuable thing in every people life, as family is everything for us. Thus, the vacation will be the best time of joy and togetherness.

The vacation will ask your good consideration before really going for it. So, you can ensure the safety of your family. And the following explanation will be dealing with the tips for your family's health as well as safety in your vacation.

The Health Tips

You must plan a vacation far in advance. Parents are mostly preparing anything to ensure that the family is safe during the vacation. One of the matters that need a lot of preparation is the family's health. As the example, you can bring the complete medications to treat your family disorder.

Prepare the medical records as well as health insurance cards for every member of your family will be the most important thing as well. If you are ready enough for this, you may be able to avoid any health troubles during your vacation.

The Safety Tips

The family vacation that is perfectly prepared will bring you a guarantee that there will be a great and safety trip. Several examples you can do are: activating your cellular phones to keep contact with everyone you know when you are away from home. Besides, don't forget to leave an itinerary to your reliable friends as well as neighbors. Be sure that you will be safe and can avoid the harm during your traveling. When everything is prepared excellently, you will get fun, exciting and memorable family vacation.





For further information of vacation and family visit the links on family vacation.




Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Gay Travel to Italy

Author: Howie Holben

Source: articlesbase.com



Italy is a land of art, history, architecture, romance and Vespas. Italy’s exceptional scenery, rich history and deeply entrenched culture have made this enticing country a popular destination for both straight and gay holidays, as well as a popular setting for books, movies and plays. Singles, couples, families and groups of friends flock to Italy throughout the year for the fashion, the food and some of the most famous art and architecture in the world. Whether your ideal gay vacation includes meandering narrow, ancient roads in Rome or Venice, languid drives through the countryside searching for lesser known historical sites and visiting wineries, wiling away an afternoon in a museum in Florence or experiencing Milan’s enticing nightlife, Italy is an ideal destination for gay vacations. While Rome and Milan have the widest selection of LGBT bars and clubs, gay travel participants will find that Geneva, Florence, Bologna, Venice, Padua and many other tourist hotspots also have gay-owned and LGBT-friendly establishments offering a welcoming atmosphere for a night on the town during your gay vacation to Italy. LGBT-owned and LGBT-friendly hotels can be found throughout Italy, such as the Hotel Porta Rossa â€" which is the second oldest hotel in Italy and just a short walk from numerous world-famous attractions, such as Michelangelo’s David in the Galleria dell’Accademia â€" or the LGBT-owned La Quircia Rosa and Villa le Masse in Tuscany. There is a large LGBT presence in each of Italy’s larger urban areas providing many options for your gay tours to Italy, particularly Rome, Florence, Bologna and Milan, with Milan being generally accepted as the most gay-friendly Italian City and among the most popular destinations for gay vacations. Gay pride events take place throughout the country and there are a few large gay and lesbian film festivals, including the Turin International Gay and Lesbian Film Festival, the Festival del Cinema Gay Lesbico e della Cultura Queer in Milan and the Florence Queer Festival. If one of the goals of your gay holiday to Italy is to experience as much of the history, art and culture as possible during your stay, tours are an absolute necessity. Participating in organized gay travel toursÂor working with a travel agency to schedule tours for your private travel group will help you make the most out of your time in Italy. Whether you go to Italy for the food, the art, the wine, the history or the legends, there is bound to be a tour related to your interests and this really is the best way to take in all that Italy has to offer. Another tip for utilizing your time in Italy well is to book museum reservations ahead of time whenever possible. Italy is well-known for its remarkable museums and this will save you from standing in some very long lines.



Howie Holben has traveled throughout the world for more than 30 years. He owns and runs Spirit Journeys, a spiritual gay travel organization. Spirit Journeys has offered unique gay tours with a difference since 1992. You can learn more at www.spiritjourneys.com.




Monday, December 21, 2009

Information and Tips About the Holiday Rentals in France

Author: Sachin Kumar Airan

Source: ezinearticles.com



One of the bigger draw backs of demography a vacation, no amount area you go, is that you never accept abundant money to see all the things you wish to. There are so abounding agitative things to do and see in Paris, Eiffel Tower, the museums and art galleries, and so abundant more, that you can't acquaintance all of these in one day. The botheration is that you absorb so abundant money just blockage there, you just can't account it all in.

Want to save you a truckload of money that can be spent accomplishing these things? You wish to not accept to anguish about accepting to go out to eat all the time? Wish to accept the day-tripper acquaintance and still accept all the comforts of home? Again hire a anniversary accommodation instead of a hotel.

Hotels are awash bedfast spaces, even in a suite. If you are travelling with accompany or family, there isn't any privacy. No absolutely time abroad from the kids, and no intimacy. You accept to action over the bathroom. If you are travelling alone, again you will either be answerable a singles fee, or you will end up rooming with a stranger. While that's abundant if it's some hot babe, but how acceptable is that?

A anniversary accommodation has afar bedrooms, and all the comforts of home. Large beds, and abounding added conveniences. It's like a vacation rental in France, after all the added BS. Affluence anniversary rentals may complete absolutely expensive, but in absoluteness are comparable, and in some cases even beneath big-ticket than a accepted auberge stay.

What abroad makes anniversary apartments in France bigger than a hotel? Fully abounding kitchens and dining facilities, that the alone affair you accept to accommodate is the food. What bigger way to absolutely acquaintance Paris, than to analyze their bazaar places. You accommodated the absolute humans of the city, get into the action and adore their cultures aboriginal hand.

Many of these affluence anniversary rentals accept maid services, and the tours and added attractions are abutting at hand. Usually they will be abutting to accessible transportation, or accept clandestine garages to esplanade you rental at night. They accept all the aforementioned amenities you would acquisition in a hotel, after all the hassles and abstract experiences. They are accessible the best accommodations, if you still wish to accept money in your account for bigger things.

It's absolutely not harder to acquisition a vacation rental in France, there are absolutely a amount of web sites available. It is a acceptable abstraction to analysis for the best prices back anniversary aggregation is a little different. If acrimonious affluence vacation rentals, you would chase the aforementioned accomplish and precautions you would chase if renting accepted accommodations.

So if you wish to get the best accord for your money, renting a affluence anniversary accommodation is one of your best choices. Make abiding you assets your apartments early, abnormally during the summer months, if appeal is high. It ability be a acceptable abstraction to book your vacation in the winter, abounding of the credibility of absorption are still just as acceptable in the winter and you may save even added money.





Rent Property Direct provides advertising space to property owners/managers to promote their properties. People searching for luxury holiday apartment, luxury holiday villa or holiday rentals in France can find various properties to choose from.




Saturday, December 19, 2009

Three tips to make your overseas travel safe and enjoyable

Author: Raj Krishnaswamy

Source: articlesbase.com



Overseas travel, whether it be for business or amusement can sometimes be overpowering. Without accurate planning and considerations, you could end up with a lot of surprises. The acceptable surprises are abundant but it is the bad ones you wish to avoid. Here are some tips to abstain the bad surprises and authoritative your biking across a adequate and memorable one. Aboriginal of all, accept a acclaimed airline that has had years of acquaintance aerial to the destination of your choice. Nowadays, several airlines accept accomplice airlines that they do business with and so your cruise across may comprise of aerial one leg of the adventure in one airline and a additional leg with addition airline. In cases like these, accomplish abiding BOTH airlines are reputable. Additionally, you wish to ensure that there is acceptable time amid the accession time of the aboriginal airline and the abandonment time of the additional airline. Consult with the airline appointment advanced of time apropos their action on apartment in case the additional airline takes off afore the aboriginal lands. Many acclaimed companies will pay for a auberge allowance and commons while you delay for the next connection. Missed access are by far the better headaches of across travelers and you do not wish to be arguing with the airline offices in the bosom of the crisis. Pre-planning is consistently helpful. Secondly, acquisition out the actual bulk of bill barter above-mentioned to your biking and see if you can get a baby bulk of bill exchanged for assorted costs as anon as you acreage at your destination. Get to apperceive advanced apropos almost taxicab fares and ante for commons and such at your destination so you are allotment appropriately for your cruise and at the aforementioned time do not get overcharged at every footfall of the way just because the locals apperceive that you are a tourist. Keep a account of acclaim agenda numbers for the acclaim cards that you plan to backpack and accomplish aswell a characters of the blast amount to alarm and abolish and get backup cards just in case your wallet or purse gets stolen. Travelers checks are a acceptable and safe way to backpack money and there are several sources to get these from. Thirdly, apprentice some of the basics of the bounded accent of the abode you are planning to go to. You do not charge to become an expert, but alive the basics of the language, abnormally the emergency agreement such as affection pain, abdomen pain, charge a doctor, calling the police, defective an ambulance, etc can be of abundant advice abnormally beneath acute circumstances. Try to see if you can accord your abode and bounded acquaintance abstracts to accompany and ancestors aback home accustomed so they apperceive about your assurance and any appropriate needs that you may end up having. These tips are acceptable to accomplish your across biking safe and enjoyable. Â



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Friday, December 18, 2009

10 Great Places To Visit In Italy

Author: james@holiday-velvet.com

Source: articledashboard.com



You needn't travel anywhere, but Italy, if you look to explore the land of poets, painters, palazzos, piazzas, pizzerias, and popes. Italy is the destination that really offers you wonderful vacation stuff - rich history & culture, art & architectural treasure, roman ruins, renaissance palaces & basilicas, romantic landscapes, beautiful beaches, luscious lakes, captivating coasts, majestic mountains, fashion, luxury sports cars, motorcycles, delectable olive oil cuisine - typically Mediterranean in flavor, and of course opulent wines.

Italy, the jewel of south Europe comprised of Italian Peninsula and the islands of Sicily and Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea, is full of great places; in fact, it is the country with the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Italy has numerous tourist attractions and great sites. It's really tough to pick top 10 of "all great" Italian sites, yet here are universally accepted top rated 10 great sites for you.

Rome, the Italian capital, is the greatest of Italian sites, located in the central-western Italy. The capital of the ancient Roman Empire, Rome is known for its Roman Empire structures, historical buildings, museums, churches, public squares, and fountains. Top attractions of Rome, just to name a few, are - the Colosseum, Roman Forum, the Pantheon, Tabularium, and Fori Imperiali,

Venice, located northern Italy, is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Venice is known for its magnificent churches, palazzos, museums, outdoor sights, piazzas, bridges, canals, and gondolas. Attractions of Venice include Saint Mark's Basilica, Piazza San Marco, Doge's Palace, Palazzo Grassi, Galleria dell'Accademia, Grand Canal, and Rialto Bridge.

Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, is a Tuscan city known for its magnificent art and architecture. The city is the site of numerous renaissancial edifices, churches & cathedrals, museums, palazzos, piazzas, and gardens. Top attractions of Florence include Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Tower, Galleria degli Uffizi, Bargello, Pitti Palace, and Boboli Gardens.

Pisa, a city in Tuscany region of the central Italy, is a great tourist site. The beautiful city is home to numerous artistic and architectural marvels, such as the world famous Leaning Tower. Top attractions of Pisa are Piazza dei Miracoli or Field of Miracles, Leaning Tower, Duomo di Pisa (Splendid Cathedral), Baptistry, and Campo Santo (huge cemetery building).

Milan, a Paris reminiscent lively city in the plains of Lombardy, is one of the most flourishing urban centers in Europe. Milan is known for its museums, churches, historic monuments, fashion activities, shopping centers, opera venues, and night life sites. Top attractions of the city include Cenacolo Vinciano, Pinacoteca di Brera, The Duomo (Milan's main cathedral), Saint Mary of the Graces, Castello Sforzesco, La Scala Theatre, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.

Naples, the capital of the Campania region of Italy, is one of the finest cities of Italy. It is known for its powerful symbolic images, and rich historical, artistic, cultural, and gastronomic traditions. Top attractions of Naples are - Castel dell'Ovo - Porto Santa Lucia, Castelnuovo (Maschio Angioino), Napolitan National Gallery, and Naples Archeological Museum.

Amalfi Coast, a lovely stretch of coastline on the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula, is a great tourist trap. Amalfi Coast is a World Heritage Site. The coast is famous for its scenic beauty, mesmeric sites, churches, culture, and cuisine. Top attractions of Amalfi Coast are - the Duomo (cathedral) & its cloister (Chiostro del Paradiso), and Santa Maria Assunta church in Positano.

Positano, a beautiful small town on the Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy, is one of the top rated vacation sites of Italy. Famous for its scenic beauty and captivating landscapes, Positano is a great tourist attraction. Top attractions of Positano include - scenic beauty of the town, the church of Santa Maria Assunta, the harbor, and the shops near the harbor.

Sorrento, a fascinating small city in Campania, in Southern Italy, is a popular tourist destination. The city has rich treasure of natural beauty. It is a perfect site for vacationing in the company of picturesque nature. Top attractions of Sorrento include - Villa Pollio (Roman ruins), Small Port (Marina Piccola), Museo Correale di Terranova, Archeological Museum, and Duomo (Cathedral).

Sicily, a rugged and attractive island on the southern tip of Italy, is a pleasant vacation site. It's one of the popular vacation destinations in the Mediterranean. The beautiful island is perfect photography stuff. Top attractions of Sicily are Agrigento, Palermo, Syracuse, Taormina, Trapani, Aeolian Islands, Egadi Islands, Ustica, and Pantelleria.








Thursday, December 17, 2009

Take In The Old World With Discount Airfare To Timisoara

Author:

Source: articledashboard.com



Europe is a dream destination for many people, it is a continent full of history, with quaint traditions and grand architecture. The countryside offers magnificent views, and the culture includes some of the best in art, fashions and music. It is not surprising that so many people love to visit Europe whenever they can.

Romania is believed to be one of the oldest inhabited countries in the world, and is believed by some to be one of the most haunted too. Human fossils dating back to thirty thousand years ago were recently uncovered in the country, and, in more recent history, 16th century letters have been found that describe the impending Ottoman invasion. Romania has a rich history just waiting to be explored.

Romania has been home to gypsy and Transylvania-inspired legends since before Bram Stoker even knew how to write. Her history is much like an intricately woven tapestry. But how do you get there? Whether to the capital Bucharest or the urban mistress Timisoara, discount airfare is still a possibility.

Finding a Discount Airfare To Timisoara

Timisoara is the jewel in the crown of Romania. It is one of the country's largest cities, being home to over 300,000 people. Timisoara is the hub of Romania's industrial and financial businesses, and holds an incredible blend of old and modern influences and culture.

Timisoara has seen an increasing number of tourist visits in recent years. Only a few years ago, the idea of discount airfares to Timisoara would have seemed rather silly, but as travelers become more adventurous, and seek an experience more interesting than a typical trip to Paris or London, Romania is becoming an increasingly popular choice. Discounts offered for those who fly to the country just increases the attraction.

There are many online travel companies that cater to international vacations; 1800FLYEUROPE promises special discounts on airfare to Romanian cities Timisoara and Bucharest. Trip Advisor searches multiple travel web sites to find the best price for you. Be sure to read any and all fine print.

If you are unsure of anything offered, then contact the customer service department - most will offer several ways, so you could pick up the phone if you need an immediate answer, or use their contact form or email address if that is more convenient for you.

While you are planning your trip, check out web sites such as Virtual Tourist, where you can talk to others who have been to Timisoara, as well as get advice from the locals. Virtual Tourist gives you real insights into the area, and will help you find the best hotels and restaurants, and give you an idea of which attractions are worth your time.

Another similar site is Trip Advisor, where you can keep track of places you have been, review, them, keep travel diaries, and swap tips with other tourists. Your fellow travelers will be more than willing to answer any questions you have about the area, and help you get the best deal for your trip.








Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Driving Tips For Australia

Author: Andrew Bond

Source: articledashboard.com



Australia is the third-largest country in the world and this makes a cross country tour a rather daunting proposal. The entire centre of the country is desert, so all of its major cities are along the coast. A popular route could take you from the southern coast's mountains and wineries, around the east coast taking in Sydney, Australia's cultural capital, and up the Gold Coast, where surfing and beach bumming is the order of the day.

For those with a penchant for adventure and roughing it, a trip across the continent through the rugged terrain of South Australia and the Northern Territory will keep outdoorsmen happy. Tasmania, an island just south of New South Wales, also offers a more off-the-beaten-track journey.

For coastal drives, you will find that Australia's road networks are for the most part excellent, with well-marked exits and signs. The well-maintained highways are straightforward and British drivers should have a pleasant driving experience being that Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road, saving you the trouble of adjusting to driving on the opposite side of the road.

The road system here also uses roundabouts, allowing junctions to flow smoothly, and outside major urban centres, congestion is rare. The large motorways are usually classified as 'A' routes where the speed limit is between 60 and 68mph (100 and 110kph), while 'B' routes are usually dual carriageways and the speed limit is 60mph (100 kph). A 'C' route will pass through a suburban or built-up area. The speed limit on these routes is 30 to 35mph (50 to 60kph).

Service stations are abundant along major routes and many of them are open 24 hours. If you're driving between major cities, it is a god idea to stop every few hours to take a break. It's not recommended that you drive for more than 3 hours at a time, and no more than 370 miles (600kms) a day. Even though the driving isn't very stressful, being behind the wheel for long periods of time can lead to silly mistakes and dangerous driving. It's also advisable to book an overnight stop before you set out on your day's journey.

The other side of driving in Australia is traversing the outback, which is quite a different story than negotiating its easy to use motorways. Once you are away from civilisation, you'll definitely need a four-wheel vehicle to ensure your safety on the dusty and unkempt roads. Service stations in the outback are sporadically found here and there, so there is a lot more planning to do for a trip like this. Aside from the potholes you'll encounter, other hazards include wildlife and breakdowns.

Always keep supplies of food and water with you, as you may have to wait a while until help arrives. Joining an auto club is also advisable and can give you peace of mind in such unpredictable conditions. For assistance in any state, call: 13 11 11. There is no speed limit in the outback of the Northern Territory, but this isn't the Autobahn and it's better to play it safe.

The minimum driving age in Australia varies from 16 to 18 years depending on the state. To rent a car is easy and if you're in the country for less than 6 months, you can use your licence from your home country. An international licence is not required.

Inside the car, you are required by law to wear a seatbelt at all times and it is illegal to talk on a mobile phone while driving. Drunk-driving laws are also strict with random checkpoints set up in all states. If your blood alcohol level is more than 0.5 mg/ml, you can receive a hefty fine.

Fuel prices vary from urban areas to outback petrol stations, but generally range from A$0.90 to A$1 per litre.








Monday, December 14, 2009

Disney World Discounts

Author: Kelly Jefferson

Source: ezinearticles.com



I have been visiting Disney World in Florida since the year it opened. I now take my son there every chance I can. I know how expensive it is, and Icertainly could not afford Disney without the help of the many discounts and tips that Ihave found online.

The first tip I would share is the park tickets.If you are a member of the military, or a civilian working at a military base (DOD employee) you can purchase the park tickets right on base and save quite a bit of money. Or, if you are already in Florida, you can purchase your tickets at Shades Of Green right on Disney Property. But remember you will need your ID to do so. Shades of Green also offers discount tickets to other area attractions as well which helps a lot when you are trying to save money.

Eating - Make your reservations early if you are doing a sit down meal. And if you have a child who is too old for the "children's"menu that is not a big eater-ask if they can order from the children's menu anyways, a lot of the restaurants do allow this, which saves you money. I myself have ordered from the children's menu because Ijust cannot eat a lot in the Florida heat. I have also split a meal because Ijust cannot eat all that food.

The dining plan works for alot of people, and it is cheaper for some. For myself and my son, it does not work out since Ibarely eat and would end up wasting food. But it really is a good option if you can do it.

I also bring small foods for Breakfast such as granola bars, little cereal boxes, etc. to eat in the room, and then have a later lunch, only eating one or two meals at the parks.Note: the sit down meal at lunch is always cheaper than the dinner sit down meal. Of course one breakfast we never miss is Chef Mickeys. That is a must do on one morning of our trip.

We always search online on the Disney forums (the dis board is my fav.) for any new things going on or information from those that just got back and find tons of freebies, or fun stuff to do that doesn't cost any extra. There are loads of tips and tricks, and information on discounts for everything from shopping to meals and hotel discounts.

But the best discount information by far has been found in a book written by an Ex Disney Cast Member who knows all the secrets, all the discounts, all the how to's, hidden entrances, and more. She has been there, she has saved hundreds if not over a thousand on her vacation and has helped countless others do the same. This includes a news anchor from NBCNews. She knows where to find all the best discounts, when to go, how to stay at the most expensive resorts for little money, how to shop for less, save on tickets, and anything to do with Disney. Not just discounts, she offers you tips and tricks to have the BESTDisney vacation ever.!





Proven to work, Tried by a member of NBC News. Read the Disney Insider Secrets to Help You Save Hundreds on your next trip to Disney World.

Read the testimonials, see the NBC news video and try it for yourself to see how much you can save on your next trip to Disney World!

Disney Discounts, Tips and More!




Sunday, December 13, 2009

Tips To Help Families Plan A Truly "magical" Vacation

Author: Stacey Moore

Source: articledashboard.com



Planning a family vacation may take some time, but it can be a fun experience for everyone involved. With a little expert advice and an early start, you and your family can plan a memorable vacation. And there's no better place to start than with some practical tips from MSNBC.com travel expert John Frenaye, on behalf of the Disney Rewardsฎ Visaฎ Card from Chase.

"As a father of three, I know how crazy planning a family vacation can be," said Frenaye. "Whether you have one child or five, there are proven ways to cut back on the stress of planning a great vacation, maximize your budget and ensure that your family time together is unforgettable."

Here are some of Frenaye's tips for planning a family vacation that pleases everybody:

• Involve the kids-Your ideal vacation may not be exactly what your children have in mind. It's a good idea to get their input at the very start of the planning process so they have a stake in making things go right.

• Take the time to research and think things through-The better the grasp you have on where you are going and what you want to do there, the more enjoyable the experience will be. The Web is a great place to get up-to-date information, as are travel guidebooks.

• Don't forget to build in some downtime-Flexibility is the key when traveling with kids. Everyone will have a better time if they have a chance to do their own thing, whether it is reading a book or hitting the beach.

• Watch your budget-It's easy to overspend while on vacation. But by keeping an eye out for incentives, discounts and other special deals, you can often have a great time for less.

• Book smarter-Traveling in the off-season or the almost off-season can go a long way towards reining in those costs. Plus, there are sure to be fewer crowds.

• Loyalty can pay-If a Disney trip is in the works for you and your family, a flexible rewards card such as Disney Rewards Visa Card from Chase can provide all kinds of benefits. The card offers interest-free financing towards trips to Walt Disney Worldฎ Resort and other great Disney destinations, as well as special benefits good inside and outside the parks.

• Crowd control-If you end up going at a busy time, there are some basic ways to avoid the worst of the crowds. A key one: When visiting a national park or museum, take the less-traveled route. Go left when you enter-most people will go right. And go deep-most visitors stop at the first thing they see.

"The family vacation is an incredible opportunity for parents and children to have fun and enjoy each other's company," said Jenny Cohen, vice president of consumer relationship marketing for The Walt Disney Company. "Disney Rewards Visa offers flexible rewards with no blackout dates and special cardmember benefits-like private character meet-and-greet events at both Walt Disney Worldฎ and Disneylandฎ-to make it even easier for families to create lasting vacation memories."








Friday, December 11, 2009

AIRLINE SEATING TIPS: BEST SEATS ON YOUR FLIGHT

Author: Peter

Source: articlesbase.com



Getting the best airline seat in your grade of tour requires some homework before time. Here are some crucial tips for securing your best array seats on your getaway... 1. Know Your Aircraft - Familiarize manually with the different types of aircraft and the configurations used by your airline. Most airlines have their chairs strategy unfilled online which will give you a vague overview. You should also consult one of the specialist airline places websites like Seat Guru and Seat Expert which offer interactive seat maps that illustrate plainly the pros and cons of each seat. 2. Allocate Your Seat Early- Try to pre-allocate your favoured seat as early as viable as some airlines tolerate you to pick your seat at the time of booking. Others permit you to pick a seat during online restrain-in - make sure you do this as quickly as this opens. 3. Aisle, Middle or Window - This is forever a dilemma in air travel spaces and remainder a private choice. Do you take the casement seat to like the position, have something to bony against, and remain undisturbed? Or doing you choose the walkway seat for more leg / nudge span and easy access receiving up... Nearly each agrees that session in the internal seat is the nastiest of both worlds and is only tolerable if you are in a group. 4. Front, Middle or Rear - Obviously this depends on the lecture of your label and most people would prefer to be riding up front. Sitting near the front means you will be one of the first people to renounce the aircraft at your destination - good if you are in a dash.Sitting over the wing in the internal does have some advantages. 5. Left or Right - Facing cheeky, seat is always on the left feature. Sitting left or right is not very a number excluding if you want to forestall straight sunlight or see a particular viewpoint of the ground. 6. Bulkhead Rowed - This is the (front) seat row behind the partitions that gash the bungalow from the galley and/or toilet areas. Legroom here is wavering - sometimes there is more; other time you will not be able to stretch your legs smarmy - this can be very uncomfortable. 7. Emergency Exit Rows - Probably the best seats in thrift group with trimming liberty, sometimes equivalent to topic taste legroom. Sitting in the exit row is a privilege and you should take the responsibility sincerely, something all passengers should familiarize themselves with. 8. Avoid Bad Seats - Be shrewd not to be assigned bad seats, such as those with narrow recline, or 'pane' seats which actually have no glass. Also ponder where the box for the entertainment scheme is located - it can degrade your legroom.



Author is an associate editor for Air Travel India. Get all possible informations about Air India and Tourism in India. We also provide information about online hotel reservation, Holiday Packages India Travel in India.




Thursday, December 10, 2009

Philippine Travel Tips

Author: Ruel Hinaloc

Source: articlesbase.com



The Philippines with its bags of islands, affable people, and superior Spanish and American influences is one of the added acceptable biking destinations in Asia. The after is a accumulating of tips if traveling to the Philippines: 1. The acclimate is close and the air can be humid. Rainy months are on May to October additonally dry cycles are from November to April. Bring adapted accoutrements depending on the ages you are visiting. 2. The humans are balmy and affable and English is announced by majority of the populace. Filipinos are commonly bourgeois in this angle and demeanor. 3. The appropriate accustomed places to appointment are alfresco of Metro Manila. Before travelling to the provinces, admeasure abundant appearance to get aback to the all-embracing airports area you will be aerial out. 4. Most day-tripper towns acquire guides, and it is recommended to bout with guides abnormally if visiting rural areas. 5. Keep backing in defended places. As in on added important populations in the world, big cities like Manila and Cebu abide their fair allotment of pickpockets. 6. Credit cards are accustomed principally in basic establishments. Most gift shops, decidedly in malls, are able to alone be able to acquire cash. 7. If exchanging currency, attending for accustomed money changers in malls and airports or go to the banks. If visiting rural areas, plan how abundant bill is bare back these places may not acquire just attainable money changers. 8. Tipping is agog for casework rendered at hotels and restaurants. Taxis apprehend tips of P20 for fares beneath than P300. 9. Insect repellants are a must. Malaria infested mosquitos are accepted in a lot of places. 10. Stick to bottled / canned drinks. Avoid affairs drinks and aliment from artery vendors. 11. The metric arrangement is used, and temperature is taken into annual in Centigrade. Electric outlets account 220V as input. This can accident electric accessories from countries area AC ascribe is 110V. 12. Day-tripper advice and abetment are readily accessible in Department of Tourism's offices or government halls beyond the country.



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Tuesday, December 8, 2009

India Travel Tourism

Author: RobertWilliams

Source: articledashboard.com



Tourism is traveling for the most part frivolous or vacation purposes or the stipulation of services to support this leisure time travel. The World Tourism Organization defines tourists as people who "travel to and reside in places outside their usual environment for not more than one uninterrupted year for relaxation, business and other purposes not related to the implement of an activity compensated from within the place visited. Tourism is the transitory, short-term interest group of people to objective outside the places where they normally live and work and their activities during the stay at each destination. The India Government Nations classified three forms of tourism in 1996 in its Recommendations on Tourism information: nationalized tourism, which involves residents of the given country traveling only within this country; Inbound tourism, concerning non-residents traveling in the given country; and Outbound tourism, concerning inhabitants traveling in another country.

A package holiday or package tour consists of convey and somewhere to live advertised and sold together by a vendor known as a tour machinist. Other services may be provided like a rental Taxi, Car activities or outings during the holiday. Transport can be via Train, airline to a country. Package holidays are a form of product bundling. Of course I can barely stay away from conversation about my intuition whether you can go ahead a meaningful life there. As often in existence, it depends. It depends on what you represent by a meaningful life. In case living a consequential life implies for you signpost as much money as probable, it may be a good idea to stay away from tour, unless you are self - employed and enormously successful. However, individuals whose lives gyrate only around making money and nothing else are usually quite a wretched bouquet. One of the things that I like best in New Zealand is that it is quite easy there to shelter your solitude








Sunday, December 6, 2009

Visiting Belize - A Panoramic View!

Author: Dustin Hart

Source: ezinearticles.com



Cocooned between Mexico and Guatemala lies Belize with all its natural splendor and unspoiled resources. Together with the remnants of numerous Maya temples and a fascinating mosaic of saltwater flats, mangroves and and Cayes -- Belize is unmistakably the most fascinating tourist destination for even the most discerning of travelers.

Belize -- A Glimpse!

Archaeologically grand Maya temples, longest Barrier reef in the hemisphere, the most winding and extensive cave system, a paradise for divers and anglers - and one small country at the gateway of Caribbean Sea - Belize has captured the imagination of the hospitality industry, real estate developers and tourists alike.

It's not only the geography and history of Belize that has transformed the tourism map of this Caribbean country, but a magical blend of its wonderful people, cultures and cuisines has also elevated the status of Belize as one of the most exotic tourist and vacation home destinations in the world. Some of the other glittering stars on the tourism map of Belize which are worth a mention are...



One of the few marine landmarks in the world that is visible from the outer space =- The Great Blue Hole.



A magical landscape that is teeming with pristine islands, snorkel and diving spots.



Dense forests with many ancient Maya sites.



Exotic species of flora and fauna exclusively found in the tropical rainforests of the country.



Belizean cuisine -- where in one tiny country you can experience tastes from all around the world.



Foot-tapping Caribbean music to the best arts and crafts replicas from Central America.



Bird-watching to kayaking to cave-tubing expeditions -- all within range.



Dazzling coral reefs opening gates to scuba divers.




For most, a trip to Belize is a life time memory and for others an annual pilgrimage -- to their favorite caves and diving spots.

A bit about the Weather Warm and humid all year round - that sums up the weather of Belize. The maximum temperature difference in a day is usually 10°C. Rainy season runs from June to November while the drier months are from December to May.

Tourists usually prefer the drier months -- December to May and expectantly the hotel rates are higher during these months.

Cuisines to Casinos...

Although no travel guide has vouched for the culinary uniqueness of Belize, the diversity in the Belizean cuisines is worth a visit -- Creole to continental breakfast, all under one roof. Homemade food served in very modest local restaurants can be surprisingly tasty. In contrast to other tourist destinations, meals can suit every pocket -- ranging from US$ 3 to US$ 25. Ambergis Caye boasts of some of the highest quality restaurants while local restaurants are known for delicious Creole dishes rich in meat and seafood.

Belize is not really visited for its casinos but a couple of casinos are worth a mention for those of you who love to socialize around dice. The biggest casino is 'The Princess Hotel Casino' which is located in Belize City. The only other casino in Belize is at the hotel 'The Palace'.

Bon Voyage!

A trip to Belize is often the most anticipated travel plans for most tourists -- because of its aura of quaintness and exotic natural surroundings. Belize is unlike any other Caribbean getaway -- because of its proximity to North, South and other Central American countries and not to forget the many expatriates who have made Belize their home. Because of the ease of immigration to Belize and the simplified rules for purchasing properties in Belize, the immigrant population has seen a steady climb in recent years.





Dustin Hart is not a quintessential writer -- rather he is a back-packer who lives off his ultra-light folding bike. He lives (or tries to live) in the state of Washington -- with his dog Toobs. He recently caught up with Larry Schneider of Eco Holdings Limited in relation to the eco-friendly tourism & real estate in Belize.




Saturday, December 5, 2009

Cayo Coco Hotels

Author: Yachi Sharma

Source: ezinearticles.com



Cayo Coco is well known and well endowed with many hotels and luxury resorts. The hotels present in here are known to cater to the necessities of a wide variety of people. This is equally mandatory because people from all parts of the globe flock in here. Hotels happen to be your only source of accommodation if you are visiting Cayo Coco. If you are opting for a Cayo Coco package, then you will never have to worry about these because the travel agency will help you in the ordeal. Any ways, some tips about the Cuba hotels are presented in this short review.

When you are searching for Cayo Coco hotels, then money should be your utmost concern - unless you carry excess of it to throw away for cheap services. A couple of luxury resorts and hotels are known to provide world-class service. The others are known to piggyback on the fame that is being originally created by the former. Naturally, the services that are being rendered by these Cuba hotels are shabby. It is tough to separate the best from the worst, and you will have to seek the services of the internet.

English is a language unknown to the natives. They specialize in Spanish. Some hotels are known to follow suit and expect you to be proficient in the language. Some hotel administrations are more "cosmopolitan" and you will be able to find English-speaking staff over there. The hotel tariffs are naturally towards the higher side on all the months because of the regular flow of tourists in the region. Some Cayo Coco hotels have the strict policy of "no eating from outside". You will have to rely on their hotel food, which of course will be charged high. Sadly, you are left with no other feasible options in this small island.

Please ensure that you book a room or two prior to the journey. Else, you are going to be disappointed when you land in Cayo Coco. Many tourists do the same, and they will have a room waiting for them as soon as they are in Cuba hotels. Do not gamble on such situations and a vacation could easily turn into a nightmare when you do not find a room before the fall of night. This is one of the advantages of opting for vacation packages.

One will be able to find all the relevant details of all the Cuba hotels on the internet. Internet reservation is available with almost all the Cayo Coco hotels. Discounts are provided when you book the rooms in large numbers for teams or groups. You can contact someone who has already been to Cuba. They will list some of the very best Cuba hotels that they might have come across during their brief stay in Cayo Coco. All modern facilities like television, internet and air conditioning are provided in almost all the rooms found in Cayo Coco hotels.





Are you planning to visit Cayo Coco Cuba Beach Resort in coming holidays? Are you looking for info on Cayo Coco Hotels? If yes then simply click on the links.




Friday, December 4, 2009

Tips for Traveling to Brazil

Author: laqu7710a

Source: articlerich.com



If you¡¯re thinking about traveling to Brazil, there are a few things that you should check into to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible. First, with all of the different restrictions that exist for traveling to another country, you¡¯ll want to get all of your travel documentation is in order months in advance. If you¡¯re traveling from North America, you¡¯ll need to have a current passport and a tourist visa to visit Brazil, no matter how short your stay is going to be. One of the biggest problems that people run into when they look at traveling to a different country is that they wait until the last minute before they file their paperwork, putting all of their vacation plans on hold.

In addition, since Brazil has its own currency, you¡¯ll also want to make sure that you have some spending money on hand when you get there so that you won¡¯t have to worry about changing your money right away. Plus, in most cases, you¡¯ll actually be able to get a better exchange rate when you change your money at your own bank. When you first get into Brazil, you may find yourself overwhelmed by simply trying to find your way around in a new country. So save yourself the stress and get some money changed ahead of time.

Make sure that you do your research on the area you plan to visit ahead of time and set up a loose schedule so that you don¡¯t miss out on anything that¡¯s interesting to you. However, before you set solid plans, do some online searches to find user reviews of the experiences you¡¯re planning for yourself. You may find that some of the activities you¡¯re most looking forward to are nothing but major tourist traps ¨C doing your research will help to prevent some let-downs on your trip. But whatever you do, don¡¯t plan out every minute of your vacation ahead of time ¨C be sure to leave some time for hanging out and soaking in the Brazilian culture.

When you¡¯re in Brazil, you¡¯ll want to fully enjoy the experience, and one way to do this is to get away from the normal tourist destinations. There are actually a lot of things to see and do in Brazil besides those that are commonly visited by tourists. If you want to see more of the local areas, visit with people in the area to get a feel for what they like to do. If you take the time to travel a little off of the beaten path, you¡¯ll definitely get more out of your time in Brazil.

You should also make sure that you take the time to experience the local cuisine. There are a lot of different things that you can do to get the most out of your trip, but nothing compares with soaking up the culture by eating something you normally wouldn¡¯t. If you¡¯re worried about making sure that you don¡¯t eat anything bad for you, ask the hotel staff for suggestions. They live in the area, so they¡¯ll know how to get the best, safest food in the area without too many problems.



Visit SpanishCountryTravel.com for a complete guide to traveling to Central and South America. Read about experiencing Carnivale in Brazil and Amazon ecotourism.


Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Ten Top Tips For A Successful Villa Holiday

Author: Alan Liptrot

Source: articlerich.com



Renting a holiday villa that you've never seen can be worrying, but if you take a few simple steps beforehand, you'll find the property that suits your needs.

COUNTRY

If you're the type of person who doesn't take the sun very well, don't book a holiday in Spain in August. If Greek food doesn't agree with you, don't go to Greece. If you detest the sound of car horns, stay away from Italy. I know this is a little simplistic, but the point is; have a little think about which country suits your needs best.

SEASON

Don't be caught out by the seasons. Some hot countries can be pretty chilly in autumn and winter, especially if you're up in the hills. On the other hand, some hot countries can be just too hot in the summer. Inland is usually hotter than the coast in summer and cooler in winter. Study the climate before you book.

LOCATION

The countryside sounds so peaceful and appealing, but if you're stuck ten miles from the nearest grocery store, the novelty will soon wear off. Find out how many restaurants are nearby. Is the villa within walking distance of a bar, and if not, are you willing to go without alcohol or stump up for a taxi every time you fancy a couple of glasses of wine with your meal? Another thing to consider is the distance from the airport; do you really need a three hour journey after your flight, or doesn't it bother you?

DO YOU NEED TO HIRE A CAR?

If the villa you decide upon isn't on a bus route, then you're going to need to hire a car. Take this into account when working out your finances for the holiday. If the villa is in a built up area, say by the beach and you intend spending your entire holiday on the beach, do you really need to hire a car?

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY WITH A REPUTABLE INTERNET WEBSITE

By using a reputable company to source your villa, you are minimizing the chances of being let down. Good rental companies are keen to make sure that the properties on their books are what they say they are. Secure payment methods are another reason to use a good company.

AIR CONDITIONING

If you're going to a hot country in summer, it could be a wise move to make sure that the villa of your choice is equipped with air conditioning. Many a holiday has been ruined through the lack of sleep. Most air conditioning units provide heat as well as cool air. It can be chilly in winter, so ask the question before you book.

SWIMMING POOL

Do you need a swimming pool? If you have small children and intend to keep them away from the water, book a villa without a pool? If the villa is on the beach, do you really need the use of a pool? Even in hot countries, the water temperature in winter can be a little to cool for comfort, so take this into consideration when booking. On the other hand, in summer, there's nothing better than cooling down in the pool.

PETS

Not all property owners welcome pets, but some do. Check with the owner that the villa is pet friendly. A good website will have the facility to do this.

NUMBER OF HOLIDAYMAKERS

If you're going as part of a group, make sure that you book a property that's big enough to accommodate you all. It's OK being on top of each other for day or two, but tempers will soon start to fray if you can't spend a moment alone.

ASK THE OWNER

Before you commit yourself to a particular villa, contact the owner and ask questions. Most property owners will be delighted that you are showing an interest in their villa, and will help you all they can. A good website will make it easy for you to contact the owner, and clear up any uncertainties before you pay your deposit.

Once you have done your homework and found the answers to your questions, you can book your holiday with peace of mind, in the knowledge that you have done all you can to ensure a memorable family holiday.



Alan Liptrot writes for Your Holiday Rentals.com, providing worldwide holiday rentals and villa rentals