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Planning your First Ski Holiday

January 26th, 2012

Whilst the thought of spending a week on a snow capped mountain bound to a pair of planks which send you whizzing down a hill sends a chill down some people’s spines, for many winter sports holidays are the ultimate getaway for those longer months of the year. With breath-taking views and pisted runs for skiers of all abilities, ranging from the absolute beginner to the seasoned pro, ski resorts can be a great deal of fun.

In order to have the snow sports holiday of a lifetime you need to ensure you’re thoroughly prepared, both mentally and physically, so you can tackle the testing terrain.

Fitness

Although skiing is an enjoyable sport for people of all shapes and sizes, you’re more likely to enjoy yourself if you’re physically prepped to tackle those moguls. If you’re thinking of taking on the black runs or challenging the off-piste powder it’s advisable to ease your body into some level of physical activity to prevent injury on the slopes. Focus on your thighs and calves, which will feel the burn when making your sweet turns, to make sure you’re physically prepared. Focus on increasing your energy levels too, you don’t want to burn out before après ski!

Resort

One major factor which will effect which resort you choose to holiday in is your level of ski ability. Whilst most resorts have a mixture of blue (beginner), red (intermediate) and black (advanced) runs, some resorts are more tailored to a certain ability level. Before diving in head-first and booking a holiday create a list of resorts to choose from which are voted best for your skill level. Many travel websites provide their opinion on which ski ability the resort is best tailored to so you can use them to assemble a rough list of possible holiday destinations.

Finance

Yet another factor that will affect your choice of destination is your budget range. Whilst the most popular resorts in the alps will have the highest price tags you may find that ski packages make your dream holiday more affordable. Packages which include the essentials of a skiing holiday such as; lift pass, ski hire, transfers and even ski tuition can help you to get a good deal in a top resort.

If you’re really struggling to finance a week’s holiday and want to visit one of the ski giants, you could opt for a ski weekend so you can still get your fix of powder. You’ll need to be a first lift until last lift skier on a weekend break so you can make the most of your limited skiing time.

If you’re looking for a tranquil ski holiday then one of the quieter resorts could be the perfect destination for you. Generally speaking, the less tourist-based a resort is the lower the prices of accommodation, lift passes and food will be. In addition to that, you’ll benefit from quieter slopes, allowing you to have the run of the piste and make those beautiful wide turns.

Your first trip to mountains can be an incredibly magical one, the mountain air and exercise can be incredibly exhilarating. Being well prepared can help you to make the most of your time spent in the snow and of course, during après ski!

This post was written by skiing enthusiast and avid blogger Stephanie Staszko who writes on behalf of Golf 247 who retail the 2012 cobra amp driver and would choose a sports holiday over lying on the beach any day of the week!

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2 Strong Reasons to Visit Portugal in 2012

January 25th, 2012
Calling out to the Young, the Cultured, and everyone in between: if you’ve never been to Portugal (the westernmost European country), this is arguably the perfect time. For the year of 2012, two nearby cities in the North of this country have been chosen to represent the entire continent as paragons of Youth and Culture.
Throughout this year, there will be a particularly strong offering of events in both these cities (Braga and Guimaraes), additionally to their natural charms and traditional delights. Since the two cities are located at 20 minutes’ drive from one another, this provides visitors with a great opportunity for catching two cultural rabbits with the same proverbial stone.  And if you’re wondering, yes – you can easily find low cost flights to Portugal from most European countries.

Guimaraes, European Culture Capital 2012

Widely regarded as the “Cradle of the Nation”, since it was home to D. Afonso Henriques (the first Portuguese king), Guimaraes has always been known as a place of historical significance. To those familiar with this city, the title of European Culture Capital 2012 came as no surprise: it was not long ago that the New York Times wove praises about Guimaraes as one of the most recommendable places to visit in Europe.
here.

Braga, European Youth Capital 2012

Also a city of great historical significance – with over 2,000 years old – Braga is widely regarded as the city of archbishops, and a mandatory stop for anyone adept to religious tourism. But Braga has also been long known as one of the most youthful cities in Europe, and this year it was chosen as one of the European Youth Capitals. Which means there will be a significantly investment in activities, events and organizations geared to the promotion of younger-minded culture, from street art and performances to musical shows.
The festivities will be grouped in three areas: Y.World (aimed towards the internationalization of regional creatives, through conferences, musical performances and gastronomic events); Y. You (focusing issues related with education, qualification and entrepreneurism of younger citizens); and Y.Life(dealing with the urban life and its new challenges, proposing ways of experiencing the city with intensity and well-being). For a detailed program of events, refer to this website.

Ready to Visit Portugal Yet?

For anyone who’s been looking for the right time to visit Portugal, this is it. Throughout the year of 2012, there will be a particularly rich cultural program that is sure to please visitors of all ages – younger visitors in particular. If you want to get to know this country and explore its unique charms available in the Northern region, this will be the perfect opportunity.
This guest post was brought to you by the low cost airline guides, a website where you can conveniently search for low cost flights throughout Europe, including of course Portugal.

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Where to head for a great night out in Tenerife

January 25th, 2012
We’ve all craved a wild holiday of drinking and dancing at night and sleeping off the consequences on the beach the morning after, and there is no better place to indulge than on holidays to Tenerife.

From the moment the wheels of the plane touch the tarmac, Tenerife will enthrall you with its warm weather and friendly atmosphere, and this isn’t more apparent than in Playa de las Americas, on the south of the island. However, how do you know where is good for a night out? After all, holiday time is precious and you don’t want to waste your time having a few disastrous after dark experiences before you find the best places.

First off, head to Starco’s for a shopping centre layout of bars, where you can dance from door to door, getting the best drinks offers on your way. This is where most revelers begin their nights, meeting people and enjoying the cheerful atmosphere in places such as Lineker’s Bar with its outdoor terrace, and Brannigans, where you can get involved in drinking games. Later on, with a few cocktails swigged back and some itchy feet under the table, Veronica’s strip is the place to head to. It begins to get very popular in the early hours of the morning, providing wall-to-wall clubs with enough dance floor space to keep the most determined clubbers happy. The Patch is an area more popular with older holidaymakers, and is where you can find comedy shows, karaoke, singers and impersonators. The Full Monty is a great place to watch cabaret and The Sax Bar is great for those who want to get in touch with their inner rock god whilst on holiday in Tenerife.

Los Cristianos is home to some of the best in karaoke fun, including Shakespeare’s bar, where bad singers are welcome and therefore entertainment is in the masses. Enjoy a meal and a drink here whilst cringing at the performances, as they become more drink fuelled by the hour. For something a bit less ‘strangled cat’, head to The Merry Monk, for live acts seven nights a week, cocktails and a laid back vibe.

San Eugenio is a little less hectic than its frantic neighbour Playa de las Americas, and is a great place for families and couples, who can sit back and enjoy a few drinks and a traditional meal. Manhattans bar offers a night with a difference, being the only place on the island where you can listen to live soul and Motown. For some unique entertainment, order one of 130 cocktails at Harleys American Restaurant and Bar, and witness its creation with impressive, stylish flaring from the award winning bartenders. The Irish Rover has got to be the only place where you can see Elvis, Freddie Mercury, Shirley Bassey and the Blues Brothers all in one place… impersonators of course, but who’s to differentiate once they’ve got a few cocktails down the hatch?

Although a lot of the best nightlife on a Tenerife holiday is centered around Playa de las Americas, there are other smaller pockets to discover, such as the Golf del Sur where you can catch country music at Jimmy’s or the Costa del Silencio where you can watch some cabaret in Flicks Bar on the seafront. Los Gigantes is home to The Wine Bar at The Harbour Club, where you can enjoy a meal and some Rat Pack style entertainment, and Puerto Santiago is where you discover a little gem called Route 66. Here people of all ages come together in some relaxed performances of music spanning all eras, it is also a great place to spy the somewhat un-rhythmical dance to their own tune!

A holiday in Tenerife is a great place to find your own style of nightlife, whether it’s hectic, wild and chaotic, or chilled, calm and pleasurable, once the sun goes down, there’s a perfect spot by a bar for anyone.

Author Bio:
L Feasey is a travel writer and writes about Tenerife holidays for the easyJet holidays website after staying in the Costa Adeje Gran Hotel on the south of the island.

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The Top 5 Things to do in York

January 24th, 2012
York is one of those rare holiday destinations – a city which has it all. History, adventure and a lively culture await any lucky visitors. From active days out for kids to ghostly evening tours and a spot of history and world-famous architecture in between, York offers something for everyone.

Shopping and Ghosts

5. SNICKELWAYS
Wandering around the narrow shopping lanes and cobbled streets of Snickelways, the old centre of York, is a great way to get a taste of this historic city while enjoying a range of shops. By day, visitors can enjoy boutique stores and deli-cafes. By night, the narrow roads become the setting for a number of eerie ghost tours and walks that are not for the faint hearted.

For the Kids

4. YORK MAZE
If you are visiting York with the family and need to do something a bit more active, then the York Maze offers hours of fun. This multi-award-winning attraction is considered to be one of the largest mazes in the world and it’s actually made out of maize! York Maze is a big hit with parents who may need to get away from the four walls of their York hotels and get out and about with the kids.

3. NATIONAL RAILWAY MUSEUM
Popular with a huge range of people from pre-schoolers to adults, the Railway Museum provides a great day out. This interactive museum even includes an outdoor play area and a chance to ride the miniature railway. From Japanese bullet trains to the splendour of Royal Trains, the huge exhibition spaces are filled with a surprising number of fascinating displays. It is one of the UK’s National Museums, which means that entry is free.

History and Intrigue

2. YORK MINSTER
An essential attraction for anyone with even a passing interest in either history or architecture, York Minster is the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe and is an essential part of the York itinerary. The views from the tower, the exquisite stained-glass windows and the mysterious crypt all combine to give the visitor an enthralling day out.

1. JORVIK VIKING CENTRE
York owes so much of its history to the Vikings and even its name, that it would be wrong to visit the city without stopping at this fascinating attraction. The centre has been developed on the same site that the excavations of the Viking city of Jorvik were discovered. This attraction is a big hit with kids as it offers a unique and exciting way to learn about the past. Every detail has been recreated, including the sights, sounds and even smells that would have been experienced in this city. You can travel back 1000 years in time to discover everyday life for the citizens of Jorvik.

From peaceful shopping afternoons to getting lost in the world’s largest maze, stunning architecture and a taste of its rich and thrilling past, York is a city which entertains, educates and delights every visitor.

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Tips for Taking Your Children to the Museum Without The Stress

January 23rd, 2012
If your pre-baby dreams of parenthood included leisurely strolls through museums, sharing the wonders of the world with your child, and watching his impressionable young mind eagerly soak in knowledge, you may have been sorely disappointed the first time you attempted to take your child to a museum. Or, you may not have even tried it yet, out of fear of the potential chaos and mayhem that could ensue.

Relax. For the vast majority of kids, a museum visit is not only entirely possible, but can actually be an enjoyable experience for all parties involved. Like anything else with kids, it just takes preparation and more than a little bit of patience.

Preparation is Key

The first thing you must do is prepare your child for the museum trip. Begin doing this in a positive manner; don’t jump straight into a lengthy recitation of rules. Getting your child excited about the trip first is absolutely crucial to the success of your mission. A child who is eagerly anticipating an event is a cooperative child.  Pick a museum that has some exhibits that tie into his specific interests, such as transportation or dinosaurs, and tell him about all of the interesting things he will see ahead of time. Rick Steves has some great travel guides where you can give a little background on a particular painting which makes it even more exciting when you finally see the work in person.

After your child is excited about the trip and eager to go, remind him that there are certain rules in a museum. Stick to the obvious ones, like no running and keeping his voice low, and remember that you can always throw out quick reminders of smaller rules along the museum tour. A child should always have these rules in mind, yet not feel so overwhelmed by them that the whole experience sounds like a depressing nightmare. You want him to look forward to the trip, not dread it.

The most important part of preparing your child for a museum visit is giving him a schedule, so that he knows what to expect. Remind him that there will be some exhibits that are more interesting than others, and that if the trip goes smoothly you will surely have time to get to everything he wants to see.

Timing is Everything

Another very important aspect of planning is to choose a time that will work best for your child. Many children are overwhelmed by large crowds, so visiting the museum on a weekday, if possible, might be helpful. If you have a very young child who still needs an afternoon nap, obviously you will not want to schedule your museum visit during this time, and you will want to be out of the museum before the usual time he begins to feel cranky.

Another important thing to remember about timing is to restrict your visit to an appropriate time length, considering your child’s age. A three-year-old simply will not be able to tolerate a museum tour that lasts five hours, no matter how well you may plan the trip. Be reasonable in your expectations, so that the trip can end on a positive note and your child will be excited to visit another museum again in the future.

Utilize Technology

Many museums offer headphones for guided tours; if this is something your child would enjoy, then by all means use them. Others may have exhibits that interact with your smart phone, so remember to have your phone charged and ready to go. Most kids love any kind of technological gadget, and using these devices to interact with the exhibits will keep him engaged and ward off boredom.

If the particular museum you wish to visit doesn’t offer these types of options, then you could allow your child to be in charge of taking photos (where allowed) in order to keep him excited about the tour. Most kids like to feel as if they are in charge of something important, especially when it involves using some fun equipment.

Break it up

Many children will not be able to withstand a long museum tour of simply looking at one exhibit after another. Instead of attempting to tackle an entire museum all at once, break up your visit. Take frequent bathroom and water breaks, or schedule your visit to include lunch at the museum cafe halfway through your tour. If the museum is offering a hands-on activity, try to take part in this midway through your visit. If there are outdoor exhibits, work these into the middle of a long stretch of indoor ones, even if it entails a bit more walking back and forth. A brief change of scenery, as well as the opportunity to move around a bit, will help to refresh your child’s patience.

Choose Your Battles

As with anything else in parenting, you will not always get your way. Be realistic, and keep in mind that most children will not be able to keep their voices down and refrain from running an entire day. If the museum you plan to visit is a very large one, you probably will not get to see everything all in one trip. Remember those exhibits will be there again tomorrow, and you can always come back and see anything you missed on another visit. Make a list of the things you and your child most want to do, and consider the visit a success if you cover most of your list. This is a learning experience for your child, and it isn’t just about the exhibits. He is learning a new social situation, so be patient and remember that each museum trip will be easier than the last.

Reward Good Behavior

Finally, remember to reward good behavior. Being quiet and walking slowly is an enormous challenge for most children, so let him know how much you appreciate his effort. You want this to be a positive memory, so that he is willing to try it again in the future. A small souvenir from the gift shop may be in order, or even just a scoop of ice cream will suffice. After your museum tour has ended, take your child to a playground where he can run off his excess energy. He will need it by this time, and you can collapse onto a park bench and congratulate yourself on a job well done.

This article was written by Emily Hall Morag writes for withoutthestress.com. Without The Stress is a passport expediting service that specializes in same day US passport renewals and UK student visas.

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Saving on Your Holiday in Tuscany

January 23rd, 2012

A vacation in Tuscany is a hard-to-forget experience. Here wonderful natural surroundings are only matched by the importance of historical places and the fine cuisine. This land is very famous and visitors come from the four corners of the world to live it, even if for just a weekly vacation.

However, a holiday in this Italian region should not take up all your savings. Whenever you go on holiday, the most money is spent on your accommodation and your meals. Did you know that Tuscany villas are the most cost-effective type of holiday stay there is? Hotels bear a high cost per person, while villas lower that expense greatly, allowing you to put your money on something else that will make your holiday memorable.

Moreover, villas are much more comfortable and offer services that only luxury hotels offer. Your privacy is sacred. You will not need to cross public hotel halls to finally gain access to your room. By the way, the latter will be a tiny bit of all the space a villa offers, giving you no way of deeply cherishing your time with your family.

Since all of your family will stay in one accommodation, you will need less rooms to rent, reducing the overall cost. Indeed, if you can fill all the occupancy, the larger the property, the lower the cost per person. Then you should also add the full self-catering option Tuscany villas give you, further reducing the expense of dining out all the time. Always prepare your meals at home for much fresher and tastier food at a fraction of what you would pay for in a restaurant.
To take it even further, laundry is self service and included in the price, and finally, there is no need to spend money on movies during rainy days, as home entertainment amenities are a common feature in villas.

Perhaps the most important value added feature of all is that villas are able to give you the sensation of being at home from the first moment you step in. And yet, you know this will be a short stay of one or two weeks, giving you that irresistible lightheartedness feeling that makes every single moment worry-free and totally enjoyable.

Alfresco barbecue dinners, nights swimming in the floodlit pool, laughing or singing altogether in total serenity without anyone complaining, or simply listening to the relaxing chant of crickets lulling you to sleep are the never-told ingredients that make a vacation with family and friends just perfect. In Tuscany villas this is all possible.

There are also other active ways you can use to save even more when renting in this splendid region, such as booking as early as possible. It is extremely important, and your chosen period should be off peak season (July and August).
In addition, take advantage of the increasingly available travel bundles offered. Airlines and car rental companies often partner up with accommodation providers lowering their prices when you chose specific villas or farmhouses.

Matt has spent several summers touring Italy, and what he enjoys most is staying in a Tuscany villa with pool with his family.

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Australia’s Quarantine System – Travelers Beware of What You Can and Cannot Bring Into the Country

January 22nd, 2012
Most travelers are well aware of the fact that they cannot take quantities of alcohol or tobacco into a country, and that there are different rules about prescription medications around the world. But did you know that taking an apple into Australia could land you with an on the spot fine of $200 US?
Why are the Australians so strict?
Australia is a remote location, and partly because it is so far from another large land mass, many of the agricultural diseases and animal pests which cause crop failures, plant diseases and illness in livestock simply do not exist in Australia. There has not been a case of foot and mouth disease in cattle or sheep in Australia for over 130 years. The Asian Gypsy Moth which could affect over 600 species of trees and is costing the US and Canadian governments vast quantities of money to eradicate, is not found in Australia. The Australian government has estimated that were Moko disease to get into the country, it would cost the banana industry US$250 million. The quarantine department employs 3,300 staff across the country and they screen over 13 million passengers each year, seizing 500,000 items.
How does this affect me as a traveler?
All passengers arriving in Australia by air or by sea have to complete an arrivals card. On this card, travelers are asked if they are carrying food. Anything edible must be declared to the quarantine team at the airport. In most cases, items will be inspected and returned to you. Things like pre-packed cookies, cereal, fruit and other snacks are absolutely fine. Anything not commercially prepared, such as home-made cakes, or sandwiches you’ve brought with you, will be confiscated, but you won’t be fined as long as you have declared them. There is a complete ban on certain items of food such as bananas, raw egg, seeds and raw meat. These items will be taken from you and destroyed.
So it’s just food I have to worry about?
There are other items, which are of concern to Australian quarantine too. In reality, anything which contains organic material has to be brought to the attention of the authorities. This would include muddy boots, souvenirs made from bark, any plants, animal skins, beeswax, golf clubs and anything made from straw. These strict regulations catch out many backpackers and holiday makers who are carrying souvenirs or muddy clothing.
How is this enforced?
All major airports in Australia have specially trained dogs who will sniff out any plant, food, or organic material in your bags. If you are found to be carrying something you haven’t declared, you are likely to get an immediate fine of $200 US. The maximum penalty is a fine of up to $50,000 US, 10 years in prison and a criminal record. Before you travel, check out the latest information and restrictions at http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis and if in doubt, declare it on arrival.
Our Guest Author Morag Peers for PassportGenius.com, a national passport and visa expediting service. The company issues sameday passport renewals, child passports and travel visas to any country in the world.

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5 Reasons to Ski the East Coast this Winter!

January 21st, 2012

When people begin planning their winter ski vacations, their thoughts invariably turn to Utah and Colorado, two of the biggest ski states in the nation. Unfortunately, many people don’t even pause to think about the east coast of the country. The east coast is a great place for your winter sports vacation destination; look to one of these top resorts when planning your holiday:

1. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe Vermont

A recently added lift has given this quaint little ski town a serious boost. Uphill capacity has increased by 60 percent thanks to the new lift and takes abuse from ice and wind with a smile. Visitors no longer have to hoof it to their favorite hill! Slope side amenities and the picturesque village lend a storybook feel to the resort and the rave reviews by guests don’t hurt either. A consistent front-runner when it comes to food, dining, activities and lodging, Stowe is the number one choice for east coast skiing.

2. Whiteface Mountain, New York

Don’t let the fact that this resort doesn’t have as many runs as most deter you. The resort isn’t only for skiing but is known for its variety of winter sports. Bobsledding, anyone? The mountain boasts the east coast’s longest vertical ski trail at 3,430 feet and the scenery is worth the trip alone. Be sure to take a great camera as you’ll not want to leave these views behind.

3. Stratton, Vermont

What once was described as not challenging enough has been given a face lift with four new trails. The addition brings 25 new acres of terrain and should lessen the crowds on the mountain proper. Guests frequently report that Stratton Mountain is a great resort for families, with fine dining at one end and lively diners at the other. This resort may be the best place to get your east coast feet wet. No matter what you choose to do, on slope or off, your entire family will enjoy this fabulous resort.

4. Sunday River, Maine

No matter the level of ability your skiing party possesses, you’ll find something for everyone at Sunday River. White Cap, on the eastern edge of the resort, is challenging enough for the expert skier and the South Ridge has family-friendly runs to enjoy with the kids. Be sure to take advantage of the many lifts so you can get the lay of the land; walking it can get confusing to newbies.

5. Killington, Vermont

If you’ve never been to Killington, you’re in for a treat. The old Peak Lodge has been removed and a new lodge will be put in its place. The new lodge is 22,000 square feet and will offer incredible views of five separate states on a clear day.

Known for its nightlife and off-peak entertainment, Killington is a great place for friends to gather. For some serious skiing, choose from six peaks, meticulously cared for by the Killington crew. The amazing terrain provides a challenge no matter how many times you’ve skied it before. If you’re looking for variety, look no further than Killington.

Think outside of the box when it comes to your winter vacation. Traveling to the east coast will help you avoid some of the crowds of the west coast and give you ample trail time. Whether you’re traveling with friends or taking a family vacation, you’ll find what you’re looking for at any one of these top five resorts.

Tina Sanchez is a travel guide writer who also writes for the Aviva Directory, a website search advisor with lists of sites from hotels to marketing  guidance.  You can search by state, such as Wyoming or by categories, like online revenue.

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Best Safari Experiences in South Africa

January 20th, 2012
Many travelers are finding that their local zoos and recreational parks only gives them more of a curiosity to see various creatures in their native lands and natural habitats. South African safaris are quickly becoming the go-to destination for travelers.  It offers those who are seeking to see an array of exotic animals that dwell in their own environments without the physical barriers of metal cages and bars or with attendants peering at them to catch a glimpse. In this article, you will discover new information about some of South Africa’s best safaris that will help you book your trip of a lifetime.

The World’s Best Safaris

African safaris come in an assortment of packages for travelers. There are a few things to consider when choosing an African Safari. There are different types of safaris for you to choose from with a variety of accommodations. For example, there are lodges, self camping, mobile camping and tents.  There are even honeymoon safaris and safaris for the entire family. There are also safari groups available for travelers. There is no question; African safaris can be an adventurous and fun-filled affair. Most of all, African Safaris makes the perfect vacation for anyone who loves adventure.

Kruger National Park

South African Safaris provides travelers with a chance to see the land and its unique animals up close and personal, without the typical boundaries found at a traditional zoo. One of the most popular safaris found in South Africa is Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga, also known as “Paradise Country.” It is widely regarded as the world’s best Safari, which is home to hundreds of unique animals including the lion, elephant and rhino. Not to mention, the land is simply breathtaking, with incredible mountains, rivers and valleys which allow for tourists to experience taking part in bird watching, hiking, fishing and more.

Limpopo Safari

Another popular safari found in South Africa in Limpopo. This particular safari finds itself having a record number of repeat visitors because of the vast amount of activities available. Tourists can partake in game drives, which allow them to have an intimate tour of the land up close and personal. Visitors have the option of either joining the morning or afternoon drive, which occurs sometime after lunch. Bushwalks are another popular activity which allows tourists to wander on foot and check out the little inhabitants of Limpopo such as insects, birds and plant types that are unique to the area. The river cruise is also popular among visitors and allows them a chance to fish and catch many of the unique species of Limpopo. Many tourists find themselves catching fish such as tiger fish, carp and catfish.


Visitors have an array of options in accommodations where they can be intimate with the land’s environment and its animals or stay in a typical hotel where all of their needs will be met. The rooms found in the Limpopo safari provide travelers with a fully-functional shower and toilet, air conditioning, bar fridge and more. There’s also a dam provided in the rear of the room so that travelers have the option of taking a trip on a boat. Kruger National park provides a vast selection of options suited to fit your needs and experience expectations. They provide over seven different “rest” camps for visitors with each providing a different experience to visitors.

Kenya Safari

Another popular safari tour is a Kenya safari.  There is a good reason why it is on the world’s best safari list. Kenya offers hot air balloon safaris, bird watching, game viewing, Masai Mara Wildebeest migration and beautiful beach destinations.  It is known for its panoramic views of the bush country and picturesque grasslands of the savannah. For the best safari experience, make sure you consult with reliable tour operators or reputable travel agents.  They will provide you with everything you need to know to help make your Kenya safari a memorable experience.

Tanzania

Another exciting safari destination is Tanzania. It is known as one of the best game viewing destinations and it is situated in central East Africa. You’ll find amazing wildlife, beautiful open spaces, turquoise seas and untouched beaches.

Tanzania is home to one of the highest African mountain known as Mount Kilimanjaro. It is also home to national parks like Lake Victoria (the largest lake in Africa), Serengeti, the annual wildebeest migration and many other tour sites.

Finally, take the plunge and experience wildlife from a unique, intimate perspective that will allow you to become one with nature. With all of the various options travelers have available to them such as fishing, horse riding and more, they can make their “dream” trip create memories that will last a lifetime. Experience the wonderful world of South African safaris and see for yourself what everyone has been raving about.

Our guest author, Danielle Brown-Davis works for Allstar Passports & Visas, a Los Angeles passport and visa service specializing in expedited passport renewals, uk student visas, and tourist and business visas to China, among other services.

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Discover the Cotswolds for a Luxurious Holiday in England

January 20th, 2012

When it comes to seeing the English countryside, the best place to start is the Cotswolds. This lovely area of gentle rolling hills (“wolds” in Old English), quaint villages and breathtaking views is the perfect place to get away.

Some of the cities in Cotswolds are well known, such as Bath, others have enchanting names you have likely never heard before, such as Chipping Campden, or Moreton-in Marsh. These little cities, villages and hamlets are known for being “typically English.” They move at a gentle pace, in keeping with the nature that surrounds them. These are the places where tea and scones are the daily expectation, and where their English will sound nothing like your English.
Nearly every structure in the Cotswolds is made from the local limestone. Because of this there is a lovely uniformity in the architecture, and a beautiful pallet of green and golden honey limestone. The area is truly picturesque.

Enjoy the Cotswolds on Foot

One of the best ways to fully appreciate the Cotswolds is a walking tour. The area is ideal for hiking, even for those who aren’t looking for too much physical exertion. With the hills being a maximum altitude of one thousand feet, it does not take too ambitious a hiker to traverse them. Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking views of expansive valleys lined with limestone walls, little lakes, cottages and villages, all against the striking backdrop of the lush green countryside, and the brilliant sky.

Walking tours can be done in a group, or you can opt for the self-guided experience. There are plenty of maps, footpaths and known trails that can provide easy navigation of the area. And, of course, there is always the option of deviating for a friendly chat with a local, or exploration of something that catches your eye.

Cycling Tours-Another Cotswold Favorite

Another popular way to enjoy the Cotswold is to take a cycling tour. Again, these can be in a group or self-guided. There is great variety in the terrain, for those who seek out the challenging there is the steep slope along the north western edge, and for those who appreciate more gentle terrain there is one rolling hill after the other. Cyclers will find an extensive network of paths guiding them to villages, market places, railway stations, and other interesting spots.

The Cotswolds make a perfect destination for families wanting to “unplug” for a bit, and experience the wonders of nature. It is Britain’s largest Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a perfect place to replenish and renew. There are activities to suit nearly every interest; history, culture, food, literature, music, traditional crafts, and even industrial heritage. Cotswolds gardens are some of the finest in Europe, so botanical enthusiasts, and those who just love beauty, should be sure to include a visit on their itinerary.

Albeit the countryside, accommodations tend to be what you would expect for luxury holidays in England. You can choose from Bed and Breakfast options, a self catering cottage, or a luxurious country house hotel. The Cotswolds offers accommodation and activity options for every budget.

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