There are many reasons why holidays in Turkey are proving ever more popular. Turkey has so much to offer visitors from outstanding natural beauty, unique heritage and archaeological interest to overhauled hotel and tourist infrastructure in a variety of gorgeous Turkish resorts, competitive prices, fun and excitement for couples, friends and families of all ages.
For all of these reasons and more, holidays in Turkey are among the most popular available. Thanks to the country’s amazingly diverse topography it is possible to experience four climates in one day of your
Turkey holidays; exploring Turkish holiday resorts and beaches and then skiing or simply staring in awe at majestic mountains within a couple of hours journey.
The rectangular shape of the country faces water on three sides, from three different oceans and Turkey’s entire coastline is lined with beaches, bays, coves, ports, islands and peninsulas. But that’s not all: move inland and holidays in Turkey can be just as filled with mountainsides, forests, valleys, lakes, rivers, waterfalls and grottoes.
Whether you prefer idly catching rays in one of the gorgeous Turkey resorts, or making every second count with epic action packed activities, your Turkey holiday will not disappoint. Turkey is a thrill seekers paradise whether you’re looking for land based thrills like skiing, mountain climbing, trekking or hiking, sea faring thrills like jet-skiing, scuba diving, speed boating and more or gravity defying air thrills like hang-gliding.
Summer in Turkey can last as long as 8 months, giving you plenty of opportunities to plan a Turkey holiday around you, when you need it most. But this fantastic country is more than just a holiday destination; it is an open air museum of cultural history, documenting multiple bygone civilizations in its relics and ancient landmarks.
Holidays in Turkey can encompass several holidays in one, because the country is a whole continent in one place.
If your wedding wish had been to get away from the bustles of city life and get married in a calm and exotic location Igloo village could be your best pick. Located in those icy and snowy areas in the Northern hemisphere, these places give you the best views you’d get just once in your lifetime. And to start your marital life in the presence of those special northern lights is a beautiful dream turning into reality.
Travelbee, the leading white wedding specialist offers you wedding packages to one of the most popular wedding destination – the Kakslauttanen Igloo Village that lies amidst the Lapland scenic beauty. The package includes wedding ceremony, travel arrangements, stay in the glass Igloo, photography, reindeer or snowmobiling, champagne and a lot more, ever for your guests. This makes a perfect wedding destination where you could extend your stay for honeymoon as well.
At Travelbee you not only find these great wedding packages but you could also get them tailor made so that your wedding remains the way you’ve always wanted it to be. Whichever venue you choose for the wedding we ensure that the paperwork done would be considered legal in the UK. So what’s stopping you? Check out Travelbee and make your dreams come true.
Known as Bombay during British colonial rule, Mumbai is India’s largest city, and the capital of the state of Maharashtra. The city is home to around 21 million people, making it the sixth most populous city in the world.
Without doubt, Mumbai is also India’s commercial capital, and one of the country’s most important ports. It is renowned as a city of diversity and contrast – as well as Bollywood, the fashion industry and a thriving gem trade, the city is home to the largest slum population in India, with abject poverty defining the lives of many people. Dharavi, the second-largest slum on the entire continent, is located in central Mumbai and is home to 800,000 people. Incredibly, there is a literacy rate of 69% in Mumbai’s slums.
The inequality isn’t a reason not to visit Mumbai, but is something that you should understand before travelling there, and is something you may find quite troubling to witness.
The city’s bustling streets are crammed full of impressive colonial buildings, as well as all manner of temples, mosques and bazaars dating back to India’s ancient past. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus offers a cornucopia of imperial history, whilst the Dhobi Ghat offers a more contemporary experience where you can eat, drink and dance in a fascinating mixture of restaurants, bars and clubs.
Other famous sites include the Taj Mahal and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (Prince of Wales Museum). Many people also don’t realise that Miami is only city in the world with more Art Deco architecture than Mumbai.
The city also has various zoos, parks and gardens, as well as opportunities for camping and a range of other outdoor activities. There are also various cultural and religious festivals throughout the year such as Mumbai Festival and Diwali.
There are hotels in Mumbai to suit every budget, so be sure to have a look at what’s available.
One of the world’s most historic and fascinating cities, Rome is famous for its rich heritage and important buildings. Many magnificent monuments and truly ancient ruins reside in Rome, together with numerous vibrant shopping areas, restaurants and sightseeing opportunities. The city has much to offer tourists and also offers a selection of nearby beaches.
Standing alongside the scenic River Tiber, Rome has a population of almost 3 million and experiences hot summer weather and particularly mild, pleasant winters. With year-round attractions, many people choose to visit Rome between November to February, when the city is at its quietest.
Rome Hotels:
Being one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations, it is hardly surprising that Rome is full of hotels, catering for all tastes and budgets. Ranging from impressive hotels in the Centro Storico (historic centre), to more modern accommodation around the Campo dei Fiori, hotels in Rome quickly become fully booked, and so be sure to reserve your room in advance. Bed and breakfasts in Rome are known as ‘pensioni’ and often provide particularly good value for money, with a number being located close to the ‘Stazione Termini’ railway station and Trastevere area.
Rome Tourism:
Rome has long been a major tourist destination and its historical attractions and important ruins are known throughout the world. However, the city is also an exciting and vibrant place to visit, with many impressive shops, restaurants, entertainment venues and seasonal festivals. Some of the most popular places to visit in Rome include the Circus Maximus, the Coliseum, the Forum, the Pantheon, Janiculum Hill, the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the vast Vatican City, the official residence of the Pope, head of the Roman Catholic faith. The Sistine Chapel at the Vatican City is particularly awe-inspiring, together with the city’s numerous art galleries and museums.
Popular events in the city include many operas, ballets and concerts at Rome’s numerous theatres. Other seasonal highlights include regular football matches at the Stadio Olimpico, the Rome Marathon each March, religious events throughout Easter, concerts at the Teatro Olimpico, June’s Pesaro Film Festival, and also the Festa della Madonna della Neve, held every August.
Rome Transport:
With good rail connections to a number of major cities, including Florence and Venice, Rome is well-connected by highways, which provide easy access to nearby towns. Rome’s Metro subway network, public buses and trams all provide inexpensive ways to travel throughout the city. Car rental is one of the most popular ways to travel out of the city and is perfect for day trips and excursions.
Located around 18 miles / 29 km from the city centre, Leonardo da Vinci Airport, also known as Fiumicino, is an important air transport hub. Dealing with large numbers of domestic and international flights each day, ground transportation at the airport includes buses, trains and car hire.
Rome Shopping:
Known for its chic fashion boutiques and expensive department stores, shopping in Rome is a major attraction. With many bustling shops clustered around the Piazza Di Spagna, other popular stores can be found around the city’s Via Del Governo Vecchio area, close to the Spanish Steps, along the Via Sistina, and on Via Borgognona. Also, the pedestrianized Via Frattina is the perfect place for some serious window shopping.
Rome Restaurants:
Home to one of the greatest cuisines in the world, Italian restaurants are known for their superb local specialities, which include freshly made pizzas, pasta dishes, paninis, salads, a selection of cheeses and many other types of food. Al fresco dining is particularly popular in Rome, with an array of cafes, bars and superb ice cream shops clustered around the piazzas.
Next time you are visiting the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, instead of just concentrating your trip around the metro area and it’s surrounding historical places, take a trip around Puerto Rico’s country side and discover it’s beauty and culture. You can start by staying at a Parador.
A Parador in Puerto Rico is a small country inn participating in a government program. This program certifies the quality and hospitality of the inn. The inns in this program that also have restaurants serve traditional Puerto Rican food. These Paradores are usually located close to historic areas or popular attractions.
Some of the most popular paradores include:
In the hearth of downtown Mayaguez, the town with the only zoo on the island, The main place of the west side of the island and home to one of the biggest universities in Puerto Rico.
In between a coffee and a sugar plantation on the south east coast of the island, at the start of a panoramic road with some of the most interesting views on the island.
At the shore, just minutes away from the Bioluminescence Bay, with tours and local attractions, one of the most attractive Paradores in the island.
These are some of the locations of The Paradores in Puerto Rico, explore your options for an unforgettable adventure, sightseeing beautiful places in the tropical island of Puerto Rico.
The old goat herder stands before his flock. Stick in hand, he bears the look of experience. His beaten old hat keeps the sun off his unshaven face.
His weathered trousers have seen better days and wear a belt, crudely tied around his waist. His braces are actually two of the elastic straps you use to tie your luggage to the car’s roof rack.
As the sun beats down on the plains of Agia Marina he herds his goats to pastures new and another day of contentment.
When your country has suffered 9000 years of constant invasion, any break in hostilities is greeted with appreciation.
Cyprus is a blend of many influences. Turkish, Greek, Muslim and Christian invaders have all set foot upon this hallowed land and made their mark.
Mosques and Christian churches stand side by side as a reminder of the often turbulent and violent past of Cyprus.
But when free of the shackles of conflict, Cyprus is a place of beauty and discovery. The Byzantine churches amongst the Troodos Mountains are an essential experience.
The sense of history and culture is overwhelming as you journey through mountain passes and wonder at the ancient architecture.
For a genuine sense of solitude try cycling through the barren land of the Karpas Peninsula or hiking the well-trodden trails of Mount Olympus.
The blue crystal waters of Cape Greco provide a wealth of opportunity for swimming and diving.
When the sun goes down, the Cypriot nightlife will have you dancing into the early hours. Youngsters tend to make their way towards the large contingent of British pubs in Agia Napa.
The more cultured make their way to the traditional Cypriot cafes and bars. Here you can drink raki, the local firewater made from distilled grapes.
If you’re peckish, try the baked lamb dish of kleftiko, or another local favourite mezedes.
Rome is a city that requires no introduction. The name alone invokes images of leaf-crowned emperors, mythical gods and majestic architecture. Travel in Rome is an enveloping task as Rome is one of the largest and oldest cities in Western Europe, with every corner marked in meticulous detail. Italy’s capital city is largely a sightseeing extravaganza geared almost solely toward the tourist; consequently, you may want to venture to the outskirts of town to experience local life and hospitality (and cheaper prices).
Rome’s Vatican City: See the Holy See
Many are confused by the autonomous status of the Vatican; however, Vatican City is an enclave within Rome that functions independently as an ecclesiastic state with the Pope as head. It is comprised of Saint Peter’s Basilica, Saint Peter’s Square and the Vatican Museums. Saint Peter’s Basilica is the largest and arguably the most awe-inspiring church in Christianity’s history, covering 5.7 acres with a capacity of over 60,000. The famous dome (cupola) was constructed by Michelangelo, who remained the main architect for many years. To get an idea of the total magnificence, the Statue of Liberty can fit neatly inside the dome where the main altar sits. While inside the Vatican City walls, be sure to visit the Vatican Museums, which house an incredible collection from ancient Egypt to Ethnology.
From the Imperial Age to the Renaissance Era
The Eternal City, as Rome is appropriately known, stands fixed and timeless within history’s ever-moving corridors. Ancient Rome still stands proud in the form of the Coliseum, the ultimate symbol of gladiator-like prowess and community gathering. The Sistine Chapel, named after Pope Sixtus IV, speaks of the enlightened Renaissance era with the most famous ceiling in the world 1000 square meters painted by Michelangelo alone. For a comprehensive and detailed history of Rome, be sure not to miss the Capitoline Museum and the Galleria Borghese, a collection started by the Borghese family in 1600. For a look into government, visit the Palazzo Montecitorio. This grandiose palace built by Bernini around 1600 housed the courts of Rome until 1870, when it became the Lower House of Parliament. Nearby, the 15th century Palazzo Madama was once the powerful De Medici family’s residence and in 1871 became the House of the Italian Senate.
Rome is not all monuments and architecture. The city is dotted with splendid and elaborate parks, gardens and villas that are open to the public. The residences of many of Rome’s celebrated families, including the monstrous Villa Borghese, are wonderful escapes from Rome’s – of course beautiful – marble surroundings. Travel to Rome in the mild spring and autumn months but be prepared for the busloads of tourists, which make it almost more desirable to brave the hotter but quieter months of the summer. Centrally located on the Italian peninsula, Rome is also an excellent jumping point to explore the rest of this convivial country.
For more information on international travel and discount airfare to Rome, visit www.cfares.com.
Virginia Is For Lovers With Plenty Of Bed And Breakfasts
The state slogan for Virginia is “Virginia is for lovers” and there are plenty of bed and breakfast locations to help lovers spend some quality time together in a peaceful, relaxing and special atmosphere that simply cannot be found in a hotel. As a result, if you live in Virginia or are simply passing through, consider a Virginia bed and breakfast for your accommodations and you will certainly enjoy your stay even more.
Virginia is a very diversified state in the fact that there are mountains, city, the beach, and everything in between. And, no matter where you find yourself in Virginia there will be a bed and breakfast to meet your needs. Of course, there are more bed and breakfast locations in the cities especially closer to Washington D.C., but there are so many bed and breakfast locations that you can truly find just what you are looking for no matter where you find yourself. It might be difficult to just happen across a bed and breakfast in Virginia however because they are generally houses with signs, but nothing to compete with the big lit signs of hotels. As a result, you should plan ahead and look for Virginia bed and breakfasts in one of the many bed and breakfast directories available. Doing this will allow you to find all the bed and breakfasts listed in Virginia and you can check out rates, amenities, and then contact the b and b to make a reservation. Having your stay planned in advance will make you rest easy.
A bed and breakfast in Virginia is really a great option because it is almost as if you are staying at home, but with someone preparing a full breakfast for you and willing to meet your every need and even whim. As a result, a bed and breakfast can be an enjoyable and very romantic place to stay. If you are planning a trip to Virginia, check out the bed and breakfast options and you will more than likely choose to stay in a bed and breakfast on your next trip to Virginia.
The amazing country of Costa Rica is full of so many natural treasures, that choosing what to see with the limited time you have while visiting, can be quite challenging. I have had the good fortune of exploring the entire country of Costa Rica, and have come up with the top three must-sees while you are visiting this paradise. Each one is unique in its own way, and all are sure to provide an unforgettable experience that you will always remember.
1. Nauyaca Falls and the Don Lulu Tour – This amazing set of waterfalls are located in between the surfing village of Dominical on the central Pacific coast and the bustling little city of San Isidro de General. The falls are privately owned and the best way to tour them is by taking the Don Lulu tour, which consists of a horseback ride to the falls and includes breakfast and lunch. The tour costs only $40 per person making it a great value. The tour begins on the highway where you mount your horse, and begin the 3 mile trek to the falls, stopping at the quaint tico-style home of Don Lulu for a typical Costa Rican breakfast of fresh fruit and gallo pinto(beans and rice). After breakfast, its back on the horse for the short trip to the entrance to the falls. After a fairly steep descent down a hand cut stairway, you arrive at one of the most amazing natural attractions in all of Costa Rica. The falls consist of two levels with the upper falls towering over 500 feet and the lower falls consisting of a wide cascade of over 100 feet that plummets into an idyllic 30 foot deep pool. Your guides on the tour will be more than happy to help you climb up into the lower falls for a once in a lifetime leap of faith into the refreshing pool below. After a few hours swimming and relaxing next to this Costa Rican treasure, its a short but strenuous climb back up the staircase to your waiting mount. A wonderful lunch is served at Don Lulus and then the tour concludes back at the highway. The rest of the day is spent reflecting on the wonderful experience had by all.
2. Volcano and Lake Arenal – Volcano Arenal towers over Lake Arenal in the north central region of Costa Rica. It is the most active volcano in Costa Rica with daily eruptions, and vibrant glowing lava shows that can be enjoyed at night. The volcano last had a major eruption in 1968 when it buried the old town of Arenal in ash and soot. The Costa Rican government has since flooded the area where Arenal used to be to create Costa Ricas largest lake, and submerging this once lively village in hundreds of feet of water. The lake is home to some of the best rainbow bass fishing in the entire world, and there are many local guides that will take you to the best spots. In addition to the world class fishing on the lake, Lake Arenal is also internationally known for its windsurfing. There are many types of accommodations in the Arenal area ranging from five star resorts like the upscale Tabacon Hot Springs Resort to small rooms for the budget minded traveler. There are some wonderful canopy tours in the area in which you can spend a day zipping down a cable over the rainforest canopy below. The Arenal area is truly an amazing piece of paradise where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of an active volcano looming over a picturesque lake. Truly a must-see in this spectacular country.
3. Manuel Antonio National Park – The crown jewel of Costa Ricas national parks, Manuel Antonio is without a doubt a must-see on your visit to Costa Rica. Located just south of Quepos on the central Pacific coastline, the park is only a few hours from San Jose making it very accessible. Manuel Antonio is a very small park in relation to the other parks in the country, but it attracts more visitors per year than any other park. The park has pristine powder sand beaches back dropped by lush emerald green mountains that plunge into the deep blue Pacific. Manuel Antonio has become so popular that the park director has had to limit the number of people allowed into the park to 600 on weekdays and 800 on weekends. Its no wonder that people are lining up to get in to this amazing place, as on any given day you can spot 3 different species of monkeys, sloths, marmosets, ocelots, river otters, pacas, and speckeled caimans as well as, 200 species of birds. The beaches at Manuel Antonio are often considered the most beautiful in all of Costa Rica. Manuel Antonio was actually discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1519 on his quest for the fountain of youth, and while he may have never located that particular fountain, it appears he had stumbled upon the garden of Eden. This place will leave you breathless and with unforgettable memories about the beauty of Costa Rica. A definite must-see on your visit to paradise.
The beautiful city of Vancouver is located in the Southwestern corner of British Columbia, Canada; on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. Being overlooked by the Coast Range Mountains and surrounded by water on three sides, the city has a landscape that truly takes your breath away.
The Greater Vancouver Regional District (GVRD) has everything from Beaches, mountains and 192 beautiful parks to a cosmopolitan downtown area, fabulous shopping and entertainment. Due to it’s location it has a mild climate, which means not too much snow in the winter and pleasant temperatures in the summer, but it does to tend to have a lot of rain. The average annual rain and snow fall is 1219mm.
As Canada’s third largest city, the downtown area has a population of 514,000 (1996 census) and the GVRD has a population of almost two million.
Vancouver is a city of newcomers, according to the 1996 census 45 percent of residents were immigrants. According to international surveys, Vancouver is one of the best cities in the world for quality of life. It is also ranked, along with four other Canadian cities, as one of the safest cities in North America.
The Greater Vancouver Regional District comprises 21 separate municipalities each is home to several hundred thousand people and many were once cities in their own right before being swallowed up by the urban sprawl. The actual city of Vancouver itself is made up of 23 different Neighborhoods – each having its own distinct character.
There are many wonderful places to visit, shop and eat in. This includes a vast number of galleries, sophisticated shopping and antique shops to choose from. Chinatown is one of the largest in North America and is a thriving commercial and residential district.
Gastown is the historical part of the city with cobblestone streets, heritage buildings, shops, restaurants and galleries. It’s located just south of the harbor and is a vibrant place.
Located just under the Granville Street Bridge is Granville Island Market which offers a mix of food, arts and crafts, shopping and theatres. Water taxis ferry shoppers to and from the market or you can stroll there.
Stanley Park, located close to downtown, has over 1000 acres of forest and is a firm favorite with both locals and tourists. The park has many kilometers of pathway, an aquarium, a pitch and putt golf course, a miniature railway, tennis, restaurants, beaches and on summer evenings live theatre. Robson Street is in the heart of downtown and offers boutiques, side walk cafes, shops and restaurants.
The city has many tree lined streets and no highway cutting through the city so walking is encouraged. It is illegal to cross the street anywhere but at a marked intersection crossing in the city.
There is an excellent public transport system which consists of buses, Seabus, Skytrain and a commuter rail service called the West Coast Express. This is an integrated system and you can use the same tickets for different modes of transport. There is also an extensive system of bikeways, so cycling is another good way to get around.
The Port of Vancouver rates number one in North America in total foreign exports and is the gateway for Asia-Pacific trade. It has a natural deep water harbor and covers 233 kilometers of coastline. In 2003 its total cargo traffic was 66.7 million tones. The Port is also home to the Vancouver – Alaska cruise, one of the worlds most popular cruises.
There are many attractions in and around the city offering a wide variety of activities.
Grouse Mountain – located just 15 minutes from downtown, also known as the Peak of Vancouver. Riding the Gondola to the mountain top is an absolute must, in the winter you can experience the skiing, snowboarding, snow-shoeing, ice skating and sleigh rides and in the summer mountain bike tours, helicopter tours, tandem paragliding or maybe just enjoy the magnificent views at one of the restaurants.
Science World – located on Quebec Street offers hundreds of interactive exhibits, wrap around movies in a giant theatre and year round special events. There are always new exhibits arriving so it never gets boring.
Capilano Suspension bridge and Park – located 10 minutes from downtown is the city’s most popular visitor attraction. The swaying footbridge bridge is 230 feet above the Capilano River and spans 450 feet. There is also a colorful Totem park, trails through the West Coast rain forest and much more.
Vancouver Zoo is located in Aldergrove just off the Trans Canada Highway. They are open all year round and offer either daily admission rates or season passes. There is a miniature safari train and a safari bus tour, you can also hire quadra cycles or bring your own bikes, in-line skates or any motor-less transportation to get you around.
The city Aquarium is situated 5 minutes from downtown in Stanley Park. They are a self supporting and not for profit group and are Canada’s leading aquatic conservation organization. Open year round they have many different types of marine life to learn about and a daily schedule of shows.
The Vancouver Canucks are one of the strongest teams in the NHL (Ice Hockey) and with the BC lions always very competitive, there is a good supply of sports choices.
Vancouver is without doubt the most impressive city I have ever stayed in and is a must to visit if you are in Canada. Undoubtedly one of the most expensive places to buy property in Canada but with the amount the city has to offer I can understand why. For more detailed information including full descriptions of each municipality, visit http://www.onestopimmigration-canada.com/vancouver.html