Thursday, November 4, 2010

9 Things to Do on Lake Como

The Lake Como region has been a popular tourist destination in Italy, thanks to its cultural and artistic attractions. It is also a popular retreat for the wealthy and famous people, simply because its beauty is enhanced only by its peaceful and natural glory. There are plenty of things to do in this place. Here are nine great tips for you to have the time of your life:

1. Explore Isola di Comacino, which is the only island in the lakes area. This is one of the more popular things to do for those that wish to explore the historical culture of the area. If you find yourself here around the last week of June, you may even be able to take part in the festival of San Giovanni, which is the oldest festival of the area.

2. Como is one of the major producers of silk in all of Europe, so visiting the Silk Museum, called the Museo Didattico della Seta, is a fun and educational activity. Here you can learn all about the history of the silk industry of Como.

3. The Risorgimento and Resistance museum are also popular things to do for all the history fanatics. Aside from having a wide variety of paraphernalia, it is also most known for being the place where Mussolini was captured.

4. Although quite pricey, a lot of people still love to make use of planes for hire and take a trip above the lake and Como itself. This is your chance to have a peek at this popular tourist destination from a whole new and exhilarating angle.

5. A trip to Italy is not complete without having tasted their amazing selection of wine, so visiting a popular winery like Cava turacciolo ranks high in lists of things to do in Lake Como. Not only will you have your pick from 300 different labels of wine, you will also experience drinking it in an 18th century cave/wine cellar that has been completely restored and made into a rather interesting place to just relax and enjoy.

6. Lake Como is also a great place for parks and gardens, so if you want to see a rather spectacular example of these places, you must definitely make a visit to Villa del Balbianello. You can enjoy the sight of the lake and walk around the many gardens, or you can purchase a tour of the villa or just a simple photo pass so that you can freely take photos inside.

7. One of the advantages of being in Italy is being able to buy designer Italian brands without having to go broke. Visit the Armani factory store and feast your eyes on designs that the world has not even seen just yet.

8. Play 18 holes over at the Menaggio & Cadenabbia, one of the best golf courses in Como, where there are lush greens and spectacular views.

9. And if you ever feel like you've done all the things to do in Lake Como, you can always plan a day trip to Milan, the fashion capital of the world, and enjoy a day of luxury eating, shopping and living.

This place has something for everybody, so whether you wish to experience the best in shopping and dining, or enjoy the pristine backdrop of Lake Como in its finest, you will not be disappointed!

Some interesting Lake Como information:

Around Italy in 2 Minutes - Como

Friday, September 24, 2010

Paris The City That Has It All

Situated on the Seine River, Paris is the city of lights and grand monuments. The earliest inhabitants of Paris was around 4200 BC, as evidenced by archeological data. Paris received its name from the Parissi tribe that lived in the area around 250 BC. The summer is full of warm days perfect for sightseeing around the beautiful city and with so many things to see and do the warmth will really inspire you to get around and see everything you can.

Paris has some of the best known landmarks in the world, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. While these monuments are must see monuments there are so many more historical sites to see all around the city. Many of the districts within the city hold important historically significant sites and should be experienced. The incredible architecture of each district will inspire you and leave you wanting even more.

Then there are the incredible parks to wander through and leave you breathless. Only in this magnificent city can you sit under a tree or sniff flowers from a display exhibiting fauna from countries all around the globe. From there you can enjoy the neatly manicured gardens and pathways as you stroll through on your way to the zoo or even the life size maze.

Don't forget to stop and check out the theater while you are in town. See plays, the opera, or ballet at one of the many well known theaters found throughout Paris. Choose from a classical or modern style, whatever you pick you are sure to enjoy it. Finding a great film to watch is easy too, with all the movie theaters found in the city the only hard part will be deciding what to see. After all that catch a concert to hear some catchy music or head to one of the festivals that are held in Paris throughout the year.

Cuisine in Paris is almost an art form in itself, with so many fabulous restaurants to choose from your mouth will be watering from the smell alone. Enjoy food from regions all over the world made in traditional fashion from the region it came from. As great as the food is take your time and savor every bite of the authentic cuisine prepared by some of the finest chefs in the world.

Paris also has many museums and galleries to visit and enjoy too. Some museums have exhibitions from every era of art history, while others showcase paintings for specific areas around the world, still others are all about individual artists. If that isn't enough check out some of the other museums that dedicate themselves to everything from textiles, science, medicine, and more.

When you are planning your trip to Paris, consider booking a holiday apartment online. By booking a holiday apartment, you can spend less on a apartment versus renting a hotel room and still get all the amenities that you would normally get from a hotel. Plus you have the comfort of being in an apartment to give you an at home feeling and since you saved so much money you can take an even longer trip to Paris.

Paris is the most visited city in the world. Do not miss anything from this beautiful city book now your holiday accommodation and enjoy your vacation
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Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Exploring the Denver Art Museum

The Denver Art Museum is located in the Civic Center. It is known for its collection of Native American artifacts and has over 68,000 pieces from all across the globe.

It has nine different departments, including architecture, design and graphics, Asian, modern, contemporary, native arts, New World, painting and sculpture, photography, Western, and textiles. Its first permanent galleries were established in 1993, and now it has a great deal of rotating exhibits, as well.

Even the outside of the structure is something to behold. One building resembles a fortress and was built by the Italian architect, Gio Ponti.

The other building is very close to what one would imagine a titanium crystal to look like, including peaks and pointed shards and edges. This building was designed by the architect Daniel Libeskind.

Until January 9th, 2011, the King Tutankhamun: The Golden King and the Great Pharaohs exhibit will call the museum home. This features a great deal of Egyptian artifacts, paintings, a video, and a mummy unearthed from a tomb.

To get to the site, take your car or some form of public transportation to Thirteenth Avenue, between Broadway and Bannock, in downtown Denver. There is a gift shop inside where you can buy a plethora of different gifts, puzzles, games, and clothing.

When you visit, make sure to take care of and watch your children closely. All of the items in the galleries are very fragile and irreplaceable.

Whatever you do, please do not touch any of the paintings, sculptures, or other items on display. You could risk damaging or ruining them, and making it impossible for others to enjoy in the future.

Photographing of the things on display is only acceptable in permanent galleries. Any pieces of art that are visiting from another exhibit or museum are off -limits.

If you wish to take pictures, but are unsure about whether you are allowed, ask help from a security guard beforehand. If at all possible, refrain from using the flash on your camera.

It is best if you stow your bags and belongings while you browse the museum. There are free lockers available, so take advantage of them; you will be glad when you do not have to carry around your items.

Also, be aware that eating and drinking is not allowed in the gallery areas. If you do get hungry or thirsty, you can visit the cafeteria.

There are so many different interesting works for you to view, depending on what you are interested in. The Native American art collection here is the most substantial and interesting in the world.

If you are interested in this type of culture, be sure to spend extra time in the areas that house these works. There is also an interesting area showcasing the works of African artists, like paintings and masks.

You can also view textiles, architecture, photography, and a number of different beautiful creations. It is also very kid-friendly, and has a number of free programs available to keep youngsters entertained.

Children can learn to draw, explore the themes of different exhibits, or take guided tours. Most of these do not cost a dime; be sure to check the calendar ahead of time for fun events.

It is also a great place to take field trips and exploration trips. If you are the leader of a Boy or Girl Scout troupe, church group, or other youth program, there are great deals on group prices. You can also have an expert on the works of art guide you around to see them and learn about them.

Those that wish to take classes can find all kinds of instruction and workshops, especially during the summer months. If you wish to increase your artistic talent, look no further than the DAM.

You can learn to paint, draw with pastels, and draw with charcoal. Most of the classes are beginner oriented, so you should not feel inadequate or like you have too little talent to learn.

There are also a number of teen and child summer programs. Consult the website or calendar and learn more about the dates and prices of these workshops.

The DAM is one part of Denver that visitors and natives, alike, should not forgo visiting. You will be able to expand your artistic horizons and learn more about the creative process.

Terry Daniels has worked in the travel business for 10 years. He recommends (www.thingstodo.com) for things to do in your area.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Visit Olympia Greece: The Home Of The Olympics

While many cruise ships passengers visit Olympia, Greece, these passengers really do not have the time to properly explore this wondrous place and delve deeply into its ancient heritage. This was the birthplace of the original Olympic games, where it was held every four years from 776 BC until they were banned by the Catholic Roman emperor Theodosius in 394 AD. The idolisation of the Greek gods was frowned upon, as was the fact that the Olympian competitors wore nothing but a smile.

There are a superabundance of sites and sights to explore in this historic town. One of the most famous and important in all of Greece is the Olympia museum, this houses a spectacular array of sculptures from antiquity, of which the bronze collection is the one of most extensive and important of its type in the world. It also boasts a unique collection of terracotta works and, although, it is not the most imposing structure in the world, it has faithfully reproduced a Grecian columned portico to greet its patrons.

If you plan to visit Olympia Greece, then a site you should add to your itinerary is Altis, the sanctuary. This contains a variety of structures, two of the most significant being the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera. These are located in the sacred enclosure known as the Temonos. It is here that you will also find the area of the altar; this is something that will appeal to the more macabre taste, since it is where sacrifices were made to the gods of old. Off to the east is the site of the Hippodrome and the stadium where the Olympiads sought to prove their mettle and endurance.

After a day of exploring the past, there is nothing better than to sit down to a great meal with local wine, and of course, the obligatory glass of ouzo, a strong anise flavoured alcohol. You are in exactly in the right place for this, since here you can dine on the freshest of seafood and sample the other dishes for which Greece is renowned for, Moussaka and a bewildering selection of lamb dishes. After your main course you can sample the delights of the traditional Greek cheeses, Anthotiros (made from sheep or goats milk, or a blend of both) and, of course, the world famous Feta cheese. All that is required now, to round off a perfect visit to Olympia, Greece is to call in to one of the Greek Taverna's, where you can mingle with the locals and enjoy a merry night of traditional entertainment.

To learn more about Olympia Greece visit http://www.katakolon.gr/Olympia_Greece/index.en.html. On the site among other tourist information you can find all available Katakolon tours http://www.katakolon.gr/Katakolon_Tours/index.en.html.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Valencia Spain - History and Beauty

The backside of Valencia provides a stunning view of a group of medium to high mountains and plains that seem to roll over the horizon.

Of the towns in the area, Valencia is the most densely populated. There are several districts that are medium sized that surround it. There are many things to see and do. To ensure that you have the time and resources necessary to take in all of the sights and sounds, it is a good idea to check into the holiday apartments that can be found online. These apartments provide the amenities that you are accustomed to at home and can often be found for lower prices then what are charged at the major hotels in the area.

As you take off on your sightseeing adventure in Valencia be sure to begin in the old quarter. The wall that defended this town until the mid nineteenth century is still in place and you will get a real sense of history and pride from the locals in the area. To view the artistic heritage that can be found in Valencia you should visit the districts of Xerea and Seu. The Arab ruins that are there as a sign of the effects of the Romans. There are beautiful churches and palaces to view as you move across the area on your sightseeing adventure.

Spend some time resting and taking in the scenery by the Valencia Plaza de la Virgen. This fountain provides the relaxation and beauty as you gaze on the intricately sculpted sculptures that can be found on each side and the top of the fountain. The Palau del la Musica in Valencia offers a wonderful experience as well for the music lovers that visit the area.

The local people of Valencia are known for trading their goods in one of the local buildings that are designated for trading. These buildings, like the Gothic building of La Lonja are used to this day for trading by locals and visitors alike. One the other side of the now destroyed wall you will find the Valencia of the bourgeoisie.

This area is filled with beautifully landscaped greenery and wide walking paths. The architecture that can be found in the buildings in the area is more modern. This area is close to the nursery gardens and the Fine Arts Museum. This area is the most modern of the city and it provides a course to the surrounding areas. Valencia offers many great sights and experiences that will surely leave a lasting impression in your mind and that will leave you wanting to return soon.

Valencia is a city full of beauty and history come and enjoy it!
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Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Exploring the Arts in Salt Lake City

There are many things to see and do in Salt Lake City. Specifically, the arts and entertainment scene is full of hits for you and your family.

Ballet West's annual schedule includes 100 performances in Salt Lake City and Utah, and a rigorous out of state touring program. Their 2010 through 2011 performances include Carmina Burana, 2010 Ballet West Gala, The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty, Bolero and Innovations.

The Capitol Theatre is home to the Utah Opera Company, Ballet West and Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company. Many other touring live performances and Broadway plays are also performed here at this magnificent theatre.

Check out their upcoming performances which include La Boheme, Hansel and Gretel and Little Women. You can buy tickets online or at the ticket stand in Salt Lake City; just make sure you do not miss your chance to enjoy some of these fabulous shows.

The Cultural Celebration Center was newly opened in 2003 by West Valley City, the Utah Cultural Celebration Center is a unique facility. The Center is dedicated to enriching and strengthening communities by promoting the expression of the arts, education, opportunities for economic development and the celebration of human diversity; you can learn more about their special activities online.

The Desert Star Playhouse specializes in family friendly entertainment with original musical melodramas that are characterized by audience interaction. Come and cheer the hero or boo the villain; either way, you are sure to laugh up a storm.

The Grand Theatre is located at the Salt Lake Community College and is another great venue which hosts a slew of artistic performances throughout the year. The Theatre offers various musicals, comedies and plays throughout the year.

You can currently buy tickets for Oliver, The Messiah, The Class Menagerie, The Marvelous Wonderettes and Urine Town the musical. You can purchase tickets online or at the establishment; either way, you will not want to miss out on the entertainment.

The Hale Centre Theatre is another venue on the expression scene. This place is also committed to producing family oriented comedies and musicals.

The Jordan Commons offers world class establishments, the unprecedented Cricket Super Screen in 70 mm, arcade and kid's theatre. Jordan Commons is also home to the gorgeous Mayan restaurant.

This 40,000 square foot theme restaurant will take you to undiscovered Mayan ruins with talking animals, daring cliff divers and tree top dining. This is more than just a meal; it is an adventure through the jungle with great food to accompany.

The Off Broadway Theater (OBT) is Salt Lake's downtown hot spot for comedy. From great Broadway style shows to wild and wacky spoofs and parodies to amazing improve comedy, there is one thing you can count on with OBT- something funny is always happening.

Their 2010 season includes The Wicked Wizard of Ahhs, Star Ward, Robin Hood- Boyz in the Hood, H.M.S. Pinafore, Y-Light, Miracle on Third and Main and Laughing Stock. Be sure to check out the scheduling and ticket availability of these shows while you are making your plans in the Salt Lake City area.

The Pioneer Theatre Company produces a seven play season running from September through May, including a mixture of classics, large scale musicals and contemporary dramas and comedies. You will not want to miss the performances they put on.

Also, the Repertory Dance Theatre is dedicated to the creation, performance, perpetuation and appreciation of American modern dance. If this is a type of art form you enjoy, you will not want to miss the world class skills of those who perform with Repertory Dance.

The Utah Symphony is another group you will not want to miss in the Salt Lake City area. Founded in 1940, the Utah Symphony has become a vital presence on the American music scene through its distinctive, international performances and its well known recording legacy.

The Symphony performs in the gorgeous Abravanel Hall. They are constantly holding new, special performances for holidays and such.

They have the Deer Valley Music Festival, the Patriotic Celebration at Scera Park and Peter and the Wolf and other Familiy Frolics playing in the near future. Be sure to check their schedule and ticket availability while you are planning your trip to Salt Lake City.

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends (www.thingstodo.com) for things to do in your area.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Save A Ton Of Money When You Travel

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Thursday, July 22, 2010

Top 5 Scottish Castles & Manors

Can there be anything more evocative than staying in a luxury hotel set amid the annals of history? Combine your stay in Scotland with accommodation in one of the many luxury castles or manors.

Dalhousie Castle, just a half hour from the centre of Edinburgh, is a thirteenth century fortress which played a strategic role in the protection of the surrounding land. It is ironic that it now welcomes guests from afar to relax in its authentic rooms furnished with Scottish woods and tartans. Of the 36 rooms there are fifteen historically themed with period furniture to enjoy. This, combined with every modern luxury, makes for a comfortable stay with a twist.

For a gourmet dinner of local venison, salmon or grouse descend to The Dungeon. With its vaulted ceilings, worn stone stairway and roughly hewn stone walls, it is hard to imagine that it was once used for more sinister purposes. For a lighter meal visit the Orangery with its wonderful views of the lazy River Esk. Whether you enjoy the falconry displays in the extensive grounds or have a hydrotherapy session in the Spa you will always find something different to do at Dalhousie Castle.

Airth Castle and Spa Hotel dates back to the fourteenth century and nestles beside the River Forth. Each generous bedroom has all the modern conveniences and twelve are historically themed. Enjoy your private Jacuzzi, rest in your own lounge or laze on the king sized bed.

You can walk the extensive grounds taking in the views along the River or enjoy the open fire in the lounge. The Glasshouse Restaurant sits under a pyramid of glass and offers traditional fare with a touch of modern flair. For a light snack or a glass of wine the Stables Plasma Lounge is perfect.

Visit the Orkney Islands at the top of the world and stay at Balfour Castle on the island of Shapinsay. The log fires are very welcoming and the rooms are all different, offering a range of styles. The Brass Room has its own turret with island and sea views while The Lairds boasts a four posted bed with carvings of the Balfour Coat of Arms. All rooms are furnished with original Victorian furniture. This small family run hotel will allow you to relax and enjoy your stay.

The Castle has two private boats, just perfect for discovering and exploring uninhabited islands and geos, the delightful caves carved out of the soft sandstone by the sea. Delight in the diverse bird life, go fishing, play a round of golf - you are in Scotland the home of golf - or bicycle your way around the Island. Balfour Castle offers a set menu which changes every day and uses fresh locally produced foods.

You will be warmly welcomed with a bottle of champagne when you arrive at the luxurious Dornoch Castle. This family owned and run Castle is set in the village of Dornoch, an hour north of Inverness. The Cathedral Room with its spa bath is in the oldest wing of the castle. The garden rooms are sunny and bright, overlooking the walled gardens. Enjoy freshly prepared meals in the restaurant. With such delights as Scottish salmon and honey and Whiskey Creme Brulee, your palate will sizzle. Enjoy sitting by the roaring fire after a round of golf.

The Royal Dornoch is the third oldest course in Scotland and runs along the coast, overlooking the beaches below. Visit local icons such as John O Groats or take a rambling hike across the moors. Try your hand at clay-pigeon shooting or fish the local lochs. Dornoch Castle is a delight in summer and is transformed in the winter months to sheer beauty.

While not a castle but a Manor, Mar Hall sits majestically on the banks of the Clyde River, just a short trip from the city of Glasgow. This five star establishment was built in the mid eighteen hundreds and its Gothic architecture lends it authority and dignity. Upgraded in 2002, you now walk past two bronze stags in the car park and into the Lobby. After check-in, proceed to the heart of the hotel, the Grand Hall where the creamy walls are covered in tapestries. In fine juxtaposition, the rooms have a contemporary feel and a modern attention to detail.

The Cristal Room Restaurant, off the Grand Hall, includes such wonderfully appetizing foods as slow cooked pork belly and elderberry sorbet. You can also partake of a typical Scottish breakfast here, including porridge cooked the traditional way.

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Sunday, July 18, 2010

Check out Iran Tourist Attractions of Post-Islam Era Before You Travel to Iran

Being an ancient country with plenty of very old monuments to offer to its visitors, Iran stands among the top cultural tour destinations. Some of them are already enlisted at UNESCO's world human heritage and some other ones are documented and waiting for such recognition.

As the advent of Islam and Arabs' invasion is a landmark in Iranian history and as the architecture of the monuments has been largely influenced due to such a change, this article will introduce you only to the monuments remained from post-Islam period.

Nain Friday mosque

As one of the earliest mosques ever built in Iran before the concept of symmetry was entirely internalized in Islamic architecture, Nain Friday mosque has been inspired by the architecture of Sassanians. Iranian architects built structures with similar brick arrangements to decorate exterior and plaster-work embellishment to decorate inside the buildings.

Yazd Friday Mosque

With the tallest minarets in Iran, 53 meters, Yazd Friday mosque took 40 years to be constructed. The mosaic works applied to the southern ivan and portal of the mosque is one of the best examples of Ilkhanid period. The various shades of blue color applied to the facade of the portal is unique and striking.

Soltaniyeh

With a 50-meter tall domed chamber and largest Islamic dome in the world for several centuries, Soltanieh is a mausoluem built by Oljayto, the Ilkhanid king near Zanjan in Iran. Many scholars believe that he was finally buried at that structure although it was built for another purpose.

Shiekh Lotfollah Mosque

This mosque is a private one constructed by Shah Abbas the first for his family members who could walk through a corridor from under the opposite structure, Aliqapu palace, to the basement of this palace.

Imam Khomeini Mosque

Shah Abbas the first has ordered this Friday mosque to be built at Naqsh-e-Jahan square. According to many experts in Iranian studies, this mosque is one of the masterpieces of Islamic architecture in Iran, which has been built in Isfahan.

Chehel Sotun Palace

The structure in the middle of a typical Persian garden is built by Shah Abbas the second as his administration edifice. The huge pool in front of it helps the reflection of portico columns and doubles the number of them from 20 to 40. That is why it is called forty-column palace.

AliQapu Palace

The high-rise of Safavid period in Isfahan, the capital city of Shah Abbas the first, Aliqapu palace was built overlooking Naqsh-e-Jahan square. From up there, ambassadors, governors, kings and any other officials visiting Persian capital city could see the flourishing economy of the country.

Gonbad e Qabus

This tomb tower is one thousand year old and totally built by baked bricks. Under Zyarids, this tower was ordered to be built 3 km north of the ancient city of Jorgan.

Sio-Se-Pol

This is the longest bridge on Zayandeh rood, which is the river snaking through Isfahan. It was built under Shah Abbas the first to connect Chahar Bagh Street on both sides of the river. There are 33 arches along this bridge that were built so solidly that the structure could also be used for blocking the water.

Khajou Bridge

Built under Shah Abbas the second, this bridge is meant to be used both as a bridge to connect Khajou street on northern bank of the river to the other side and as a water damn to raise the water level. The accessible water could then be used to irrigate royal gardens.

Golestan Palace Complex

As the best example of Qajar period architecture, there are several structures constructed during the reign of Qajar kings. The mirror works as well as tile works applied on these palaces are very spectacular. No other such compound can be found anywhere else in Iran as Tehran was the capital city of these kings.

Conclusions

Sometimes, a tomb decoration, a hunting mansion, etc could also be very eye-catching and beautiful to a visitor, but the list here refers to some of the most famous monuments that are in good condition and usually on the routes of the main towns and cities of Iran. To be able to visit lots of Iran tourist attractions, you need to travel to Iran yourself and spend some time on a well-planned tours so that you can make the most of your stay in this country.

Destination Iran provides Iran visa services for you to travel to Iran and visit the highlights of the country. Remember that you need a well-planned itinerary for your journey. Learn more at: http://www.destinationiran.com

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Booking Accommodations in Athens

When in Athens, one must have accommodations that match the elegance and style of the city itself. Decor and ambiance coupled with friendly helpful staff with guarantee that you hours at rest in this bustling city can renew and inspire you for the next day's adventures. Three such hotels are the Amalia Hotel Athens, the Herodion Hotel, and the Hera Hotel. At these choice venues, you will find a level of service and attention to detail that will put your worries at ease. Serving as your home base in the grand city of Athens, any one of these three would place you well within the prime tourist areas while at the same time give you respite from the hustle and bustle when and if you need it.

At the Amalia, the rooms are newly furnished, luxurious and spacious. Many of them feature a balcony as well. Soundproof windows eliminate street noise from below.

The hotel is located within walking distance of most major attractions, including the Parthenon, the Plaka (restaurants, bouzouki clubs & shopping), Syntagma Square (where you can watch the changing of the guard), and the new Acropolis Museum. There is free internet access in the rooms and free wi-fi in the lobby.

Herodion Hotel is on a quiet street just a block from the Acropolis. It features beautifully appointed lounge for the guests with comfy couches with an adjoining bar and restaurant as well as a two-level rooftop deck where you can enjoy astonishing views of the Parthenon especially when it is lit up in the evening. While gazing at the view, you can also enjoy the two hot-tubs that are well-positioned on both levels. Back on the ground floor, the restaurant features a sun-room where you can look out at the garden while you dine.

The Hera Hotel is just a ten minute walk to the Acropolis and a five minute walk to the New Acropolis Museum which is a definite bonus as the collections therein are fascinating. The metro is nearby as well as the Plaka for great shopping and dining options. Some of the rooms have balconies with views of the Parthenon. There is a rooftop restaurant with great views that serves elegant meals in-season. The breakfast buffet, however, is available all year long and it is delicious with quite an array of choices. With such a plethora of activities at your doorstep, a hearty breakfast for strength and endurance is a definite must.

For more information about hotels and travel related services in Athens Greece visit hotelsathens.travel. To find all Hotels on the Map of Athens visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/map, to find Athens luxury hotels visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/luxury-hotel.

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

If you are headed to Salt Lake City, you are in for a treat. This beautiful city is full of exciting things to do.

From outdoor adventures to historical sites, there is plenty for you to enjoy. Whether you are visiting for a few days or you are a local, this article will give you plenty of ideas of things to keep you entertained.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Salt Lake City is Temple Square. This 10-acre block is located in the middle of downtown Salt Lake City and is home to the temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Also located at Temple Square are two visitor centers, the Tabernacle, and the Assembly Hall. The Square is also home to beautiful gardens and pathways to walk along.

Free forty-five minute tours are offered daily. During the Christmas season Temple Square is filled with hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights.

It is quite the site and should not be missed. Just outside of Temple Square are more gardens and a reflecting pool.

Also located outside of Temple Square is the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. In this building visitors will find the Legacy Theater which shows a featured premier film daily.

Tickets are free but should be reserved in advance. Also located at the Joseph Smith Memorial Building are two restaurants on the top floor.

Not only do they serve a nice meal, but they also provide views of the Square. Also located in close proximity to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building is the Church Office Building.

Which is the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. One interesting thing to do at this building is to head to the observation deck on the 26th floor.

The views are magnificent and will surely add to your visit. Another building to visit while in Salt Lake City is the Utah State Capitol.

The main floor of the Capitol offers unique exhibits and provides free guided tours Monday through Friday. If you have children they may enjoy visiting the Museum of Church History and Art.

There are interesting exhibits and activities for children including puppet shows and films. A few other great places to take children are the Hogle Zoo and Wheeler Historic Farm.

The Hogle Zoo has plenty of animals, gift shops, a train and a carousel. Wheeler Historic Farm also has farm animals, wagon rides, special events and picnic areas.

Both attractions will definitely be fun for the whole family. Located across the street from the zoo is This is the Place State Park, which is a historic pioneer village.

Live the life of a pioneer as you visit the houses, shops, schools and churches. If you love shopping, one of the best places to shop in Salt Lake is the Gateway Mall.

This outdoor mall has plenty of shops and restaurants. Also located in the mall is a large fountain where plenty of families gather during the summer to play and cool off.

The mall is also home to the Clark Planetarium, a large movie theater, and Discovery Gateway Children's Museum. Some other places to shop are Gardner Village (which is especially enjoyable during October when the whole village is decorated for Halloween), Trolley Square, and the Tanger Outlet Mall in Park City.

A few other enjoyable sites for children are the Living Planet Aquarium and Tracy Aviary, which is home to 500 different birds. Salt Lake also has many unique museums.

A few to check out are the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, the Utah Museum of Natural History, the Pioneer Memorial Museum, Utah's Historic Governor's Mansion, and the Museum of Utah Art & History. During the summer a few fun places to visit are Lagoon theme park and water park, Raging Waters, Red Butte Gardens, and Boondocks Family Fun Center.

During the winter it is always fun to visit the many ski resorts and the Gallivan Center which has an outdoor ice skating rink. For those sports fans, Utah has plenty of sports games to watch.

Visitors can enjoy a Utah Jazz basketball game, a Salt Lake Bees baseball game, a Real Salt Lake soccer game, a Utah Blaze football game, or a Utah Grizzlies hockey game. With plenty of sports teams, you are sure to find one you will like.

There are so many great things to do in this diverse city. You will have a great time whether just visiting or living in Salt Lake City!

Terry Daniels has been writing about things to do in cities across America. He recommends (www.thingstodo.com) for things to do in your area.

Monday, January 25, 2010

5 Beautiful Holiday Destinations In Australia

By Jo Archibald

Byron Bay
A seaside town in Northern New South Wales, it was known as Cavvanbah in Australian history's "dream period". It was a place for trading goods, finding marriage partners and congregating to swap stories by the Aborigines. It is now however a magnet for tourists. For those looking for small beach town type holidays, it is the place to be at. Home to some of the best music festivals of Australia, it includes Splendor In The Grass and East Coast Blues & Roots Music Festival and it is also a very famous whale watching destination, especially during the humpback whale's winter migration.

Mount Tamborine
High above the Gold Coast, on a plateau, Mount Tamborine is a destination for those who love nature or hiking. The restaurants, hotels, and spa retreats as well as multifarious rainforest trails, waterfalls and streams provide plentiful reason to be there. No doubt it is undergoing a boom in tourism industry as it has something for every tourist. There is a local produce market held on the 2nd Sunday of each month.

Airlie Beach
Situated in the Whitsunday region of Queensland, the town of Airlie Beach is very near to the Great Barrier Reef, and is most definitely a hotspot for tourists. This place has great deal of things to do and see. However, it has a reputation for jellyfish at certain times of the year, like the Box Jellyfish, so swimming is not advisable at these times. To overcome this limitation, the local council has made a lagoon which has the added benefit of being patrolled by lifeguards. Blessing of the Feet Festival is the one of the best times to visit the town. This fest was started by father Keith Felgate on Whit Sunday.

Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains at 1,190 meters high, is a spectacular place, with its strange and beautiful blue haze, 7 designated conservation reserves and national parks, waterfalls, and sandstone cliffs. It covers an area of about 10,000 sq km. It has been declared as a World Heritage Area by UNESCO as recently as 2009.

Yamba
Australian Traveller Magazine voted this region as No. 1 Australian town in 2009. It is a magnificent seaside holiday destination. The accommodation is handy for every tourist, from luxury hotels and resorts to economical and discounted but comfortable residences.

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Friday, January 1, 2010

Adventure Travel - An Active Way to Spend Your Vacation

By Sophia Bell

People these days want interactive vacations that go beyond their comfort zone and that is just what adventure travel is all about. People who vacation this way open themselves up to experiencing traveling that challenges their physical capabilities. Travelers seek out adventure travel because it is not difficult to customize according to the fitness level and needs of someone. If thinking about an adventure trip for your next outing then consider the tips mentioned in this article.

With adventure travel you do not stand still for long periods. It deals with activities that are perfect for direct integration with nature while keeping your energy up. Trips like these should be done somewhere that can be further examined. Mountain climbing along with kayaking and scuba diving as well as skiing are the usual activities on such vacations. A number of them are geared toward transforming the needy into people who can depend on themselves. The adventure travel you seek is available in far off locations as well as within your backyard.

Adventure travel comes in shapes and sizes as well as age groups. Activities on these trips are open to adjustment by travelers so they turn into those suitable to their capabilities. With an Antarctic tour activities range from scuba diving to camping ashore to hiking. Less risky activities that can be done while in Antarctica include walking around on deck and just taking in the scene from there. If your body is not built for rigorous activities this is probably the safest way to enjoy Antarctica wildlife and scenes.

With adventure travel there is lots to learn. The experience will teach you a variety of things both while attending classes on the ship and taking part in unfamiliar environments. Adventure travel will at times encourage you to take risks and overcome fears. People who leave themselves open to new experiences are likely to enjoy their adventure travel even more. You might return from the trip totally exhilarated and wanting more.

It would be incorrect to view adventure travel as something purely physical. It has to do with experiencing new sights and sounds as well as bumping into people of different nationalities too. A person who likes to venture into the unknown to learn new things is a prime candidate for adventure travel. Individuals eager to know what it is like to climb tall mountain ranges or live in deserts are perfect for this kind of trip. This is ideal for someone who occasionally wants to go do something risky. These people have no problems getting down and dirty just to directly experience and learn new things in the world.

These days the situation does need to be excessively uncomfortable or bumpy to be considered adventure travel. You can spend your day scaling a mountain and then relax in ultimate luxury and convenience in the evenings. This is where cruise vacations particularly lend themselves well to the cruise traveler. You can go out exploring unfamiliar lands as well as uncover cultural wonders. There are elegant banquets at night along with some other amusements. It truly is the best of both vacation worlds.

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