Tips to Visit Poland During Euro Cup 2012

If you are a football fan having tickets for Euro Cup 2012 matches and visiting Poland these days, this post will help you get some information on Poland. The country has many more things to offer visitors than just the football.

The weather in Poland becomes most enjoyable during this part of the year, and food and beer are available at an extremely reasonable price. The local people too give warm reception to the visitors. That is why the country is well capable of hosting the tournament.

Places to eat

If you want to enjoy Polish food at a fantastic price and location, visit the Pierrogeria restaurant in the old town. Here, you can taste some fabulous signature dishes of Poland like pierogi, enjoying a view of some of the best creations of socialist architecture in the city.

You will find more foreigner friendly cafeterias now, than in the past, but most of them still offer Polish-only menu.

The Mleczarnia Jerozolimska is famous for excellent food at a reasonable price and authentic service. Oberza Pod Czerwonym Wieprzem is another place, where staffs dressed like communist-era serve excellent traditional Polish food like sour rye soup and pork knuckle.

At Restauracja Polska Rozana, you will feel the ambience of a lovely country manor house setting where Polish food is served in a different and unique manner.

Things to see and do

Warsaw is undergoing a revival stage and choosing the city for hosting Euro 2012 was truly significant for the city.

You can spend a few pleasant hours learning about the city's traumatic history by visiting the excellent Warsaw Uprising Museum.

Places to stay in Poland

There has been a significant increase in the number and quality of hotel rooms since Poland won the right to host Euro 2012.

Most of the hotel rooms, even some of the hotels have been entirely booked out by the organisers of the event. Cost of accommodation here is almost at par with western Europe, though it has increased significantly during the match days due to nonavailability of rooms to meet the massive demand.

Apart from building the new hotel rooms in the recent times, temporary accommodation like the Carlsberg Fan Camps are available in the four host cities, in Poland. Again in Gdansk, there is Polferries ferry crossing between Poland and Sweden during the match days, which has now taken the form of a floating hotel.

Best bars

You can spend some relaxing time in a city centre bar before crossing the river Wisla by a comfortable transport or even on foot and reach the Warsaw stadium sitting on the east bank of the river.

A couple of popular places where the football fans can enjoy drinks are the Warsaw Tortilla Factory or the Bierhalle restaurant and bar, known to serve its own beers on-site.

The outdoor bar Lolek in Pole Mokotowskie Park has a Munich beer-hall atmosphere where you can also taste sausages and grilled food round the clock.

The Warsaw Fan Zone

The location, once dominated by the armies during the wartime is now a centre of attraction for the 100,000 football fans with giant screens, lots of food and drink along with live music.

These are some information that you may find beneficial during your Euro Cup trip to Poland.

Author-bio: About Author:

Julei Helen, from the UK, has been writing informative travel blogs and articles for the last few years. Travellers can get useful tips in those articles, based on which they can plan their trip in a better way. You can get more info on ferries to France at http://www.norfolkline.com.

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The Honeymoon Getaway

And they lived happily ever after…

Every marriage is considered a fantasy tale, where love exudes from every nook and corner, and where excitement is always around. Newlyweds declaim their bows, and take each other as husband and wife. Then a kiss is made to seal the sanctity of the rite. This is the perfect time for the love birds to celebrate their matrimony, and what more remarkable way to substantiate the idea is by looking for the absolute haven where you get to enjoy the countryside together and unwind from the stressful week cause by the wedding preparation. It is also the moment in which the marriage has to set down its roots; the only vacation where the relationship becomes much meaningful and significant; and the time of shutting the world for a while, and be utterly distant to other people, as symbolically implied by the “Do Not Disturb” sign.

Honeymoon Travel Tips

• Avoid taking a trip the next day of your wedding. After a serious and frantic marriage planning and exercise timetable, you surely both need to take a rest to restore that energy needed for the romantic tour.

Note: Your honeymoon can get off to a rough start if you suffer the effects of jet lag: distress over and confusion, as well as dehydration caused by flight conditions.

• Choose a destination you both like. While most guys decide on taking this job on themselves to achieve that surprise element, sometimes, it becomes such a letdown. Women have a say on this too, as both of you are on a getaway together. While picking out for a destination, you must always keep in mind the kind of activities and environment that both of you will enjoy as a team.
• Search for an ideal honeymoon tour operator. This tip is crucial as hiring a travel agent provides you a lot of benefits, which includes not only your agent’s globetrotting expertise but also accesses to insider discounts such as honeymoon package and hotel accommodation deals.
• Use a travel guide. For outdoor activities and site seeing, it is always better to bring a leader map, so you may be able to wander around the neighborhood with an outstanding choice of international dining alternatives, stylish boutiques, and home ware galleries without worrying of getting lost
• Choose a romantic place to check in. Make sure the accommodation you are planning for few days in any destination is situated in one of its most charming locales. The milieu of your hotel/ villas should be in such a way where you both will be able to feel the elements of romance and love.

These are just few of the many honeymoon travel tips out there that are really effective. However, make sure that you both get time for your own selves too. This shall give a fair share of space and privacy. Also, remember that a honeymoon is more than a just vacation. It is a symbol of how you both recover your old lives and begin a new one.

Author Bio: Based out of Pennsylvania, Mitchell Zavich Zunia, had graduated at Robert Morris University with a degree in International Studies. She is a field photographer for an esteemed magazine in Pittsburgh, and also, the online content coordinator for www.allseminyakvillas.com. You may follow her on Twitter @MitchellZunia.

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European City Breaks to Suit all Tastes

All over Europe there are some amazing locations offering visitors the ultimate city break options. Every major metropolis across the continent is home to a fascinating history that has left us with a legacy of impressive landmarks and intriguing tales of war and peace. And while each location may claim to be the best for visitors, it’s not easy to select just the one when the time comes to book a trip. Here are a few of the options that are open to you.

London

The UK’s capital has been a major world city for hundreds of years, and because of this a short break is never going to be long enough to do anything more than scratch the surface. Each of the most notable landmarks, such as Trafalgar Square, the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace are worth a visit in their own right, and packing everything into a long weekend, for example, could prove impossible.

Paris

For many people the most romantic city in the world, Paris welcomes millions of tourists every year. Many of the most famous landmarks are located close to each other, so if you enjoy walking you might like to explore the city on foot. And when the time comes to relax and put your feet up, a river cruise on the famous Seine provides you with the perfect opportunity to see the sights from a truly unique perspective.

Venice

And speaking of unique, there really is no city on Earth quite like Venice. Located in the north-east of Italy, it has no streets as such, just a series of canals criss-crossing a vast number of tiny islands. Many famous bridges give visitors a wonderful vista of the water-borne life that passes underneath, as well as perfect photo opportunities for camera users. For a true taste of Venetian tradition, be sure to enjoy a gondola ride during your stay.

Dublin

Ireland is a hugely popular holiday destination, thanks partly to the welcoming and friendly nature of the local people. Dublin has built up a deserved reputation as a bustling and intensely enjoyable party town, so be sure to leave your shyness behind and join in the fun. The city is home to a number of popular landmarks such as the Guinness Store House and Croke Park Museum, so there’s always plenty to do.

Amsterdam

There is so much to see in Amsterdam, from the famous Anne Frank Museum to several world-renowned art galleries. Getting around from one landmark to another is easy, thanks to an intricate public transport network, but many people prefer to walk in order to sample the sights, sounds and smells of Dutch city life. Because of its central location, Amsterdam is popular with visitors from all over Europe.

About Author: David Showell was born in London and has visited many of Europe’s most popular cities. His favourite is Venice.

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Top 10 Gardens Around the World

The lush beauty of a garden often brings a unique kind of peace to the human soul, reminding us how connected we are to nature’s splendor. From small private gardens to large scale garden developments, there are many to be discovered around the world. If your “bucket list” includes experiencing the serenity and inspiration of gardens, here is the top 10 list of the best gardens around the globe you will want to visit soon.

Sanssouci Palace and Gardens: Potsdam, Germany

Western Europe boasts some of the most stunning gardens in the world thanks to the temperate climate. Established over 400 years ago by Prussian royalty, Sanssouci features multiple palaces once inhabited by Frederick the Great and his lineage. This unique park style garden, with roman statues, fountains, and a Chinese teahouse has been voted as a “World cultural heritage site”.

Mirabell Garden : Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps one of the most splendid of places is the Mirabell, established in 1689 as the most beautiful Baroque style gardens in the world. Built along the axis of Hohensalzburg Fortress and the Salzburger Dom cathedral, Mirabell depicts life as it was in Motzart’s time, and is filled with artistic elements of the roman and French culture.

Singpore Botanic Garden: Singapore, China

Established in 1859, the massive 128-acre Singapore Botanic Garden has long been considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful oriental gardens. The garden features a wide variety of exotic and native plants, along with over 60,000 varieties of orchids on display in the National Orchid Garden.

Château de Versailles: Versailles, France

Just south of Paris, exists a 250-acre garden built by the famous landscape designer André Le Nôtre as commissioned by King Louis XIV in the 17th century. Multiple footpaths lead to flower beds, ornamental lakes, classical statue forms, and even a canal that the king enjoyed for gondola rides. You’ll want to spend a great deal of time experiencing the life of nobility here.

Villad'Este: Tivoli, Italy

The Renaissance age was a prime time for gardens and architecture, and the Villa d'Este is a prime example of this powerful combination. A Benedictine monastery was transformed into a paradise with the addition of plants, moss, and multiple fountains including the Avenue of the Hundred Fountains and Fontana del Bicchierone. This magical place is one of Italy's 31 major historical/artistic sites.

Butchart Gardens: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

As one of North America’s top spots, Butchart Gardens is a fairly new garden, established in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, the wife of Portland Cement's owner who decided to reclaim the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside by filling in an abandoned quarry. This 55-acre garden is filled with over 700 varieties of plants and flowers that bloom from spring to fall in the cool climate.

Magnolia Plantation andGardens: Charleston, South Carolina, USA

With over 325 years of history, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a magical place where southern belles and gentlemen can stroll along the waters of the Ashley River. The garden features a real working plantation with multiple gardens, foot bridges, and statues to enjoy. The best time to visit is in early spring when the Azaleas are in full bloom.

Descanso Gardens: La Canada Flintridge, California

A trip to Los Angeles is not complete until you visit DescansoGardens, this 160-acre Spanish garden boasts more than 100,000 plant varieties and the world’s largest collection of camellias. Included in the tour is the “Enchanted Railroad”, Japanese garden and the International Rosarium, which features a massive array of roses.

Stourhead: Warminster, England

If you enjoy a bit of the English whimsy of the 18th century, then a trip to Stourhead should be on your agenda. Built by Henry the Magnificent to enhance his estate, the garden is a fantasy wonderland with replicas of Roman and Greek ruins and buildings, complete with the splendor of native flowering plants and bridges that entice visitors to explore.

Ryōan-ji Zen Garden: Kyoto, Japan

Looking for the ultimate in zen? A visit to Ryōan-ji Zen Garden is a must for the rock and minimalist garden enthusiast. Beginning in the 14th century this dry landscape garden was designed by Hosokawa Katsumoto as a special palace of serenity and natural beauty alongside the Tokudaiji Temple.

About the Author: Abi Turner is a dynamo in the Chicago landscaping scene – when she isn’t providing valuable tips, she is in her own backyard keeping up with her own lawn and elaboratevegetable garden.

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How to Get the Most of Melbourne

There is no denying that one of the most visited cities in Australia is Melbourne.  The proximity of this city to the Yarra Valley, without question, is one of the things that make it stand out from the rest of the Australian cities.  In fact, those people who visit Melbourne always make it a point to head to Yarra Valley for a series of activities that surely provide fun. After all, the Yarra Valley Region is only less than an hour’s drive from the city of Melbourne.  Beyond the shadow of doubt, Melbourne has just so many things that its people can boast of.

Without question, one of the things that people do when they visit Melbourne is to visit the Yarra Valley, where they marvel at the captivating view of the vineyards from which the wide variety of grapes are harvested and made into the world-famous Australian wines.  If a group avails itself of tour packages, more often than not, the day tour will include a visit to the vineyards and the different wineries located in this part of Australia. What makes these tours even more special is that they involve free wine-tasting. Apart from it, tourists are exposed to the processes involved in winemaking. Without question, these tours are not only fun but educational, too. If you want to find out what the best tour package you and your friends should go for, click here.

However, it can’t be denied that one of the most interesting things that people who visit Melbourne do when they go to Yarra Valley is riding a hot air balloon. Although this means that a tourist will have to unload more cash, there is no denying that this experience is all worth the money spent on it.  It gives one a good view of the gift of nature assembled in the Yarra Valley Region.  In some cases, depending on the tour package, the ride is launched just outside Melbourne. Hence, tourists can get a bird’s-eye view of how the city of Melbourne looks before it gets alive.  The best time for a hot air balloon ride is early in the morning. Thus, most tourists who wish to engage in this activity choose a tour package that involves an overnight stay in the

Yarra Valley.

But, of course, even if one chooses not to go to Yarra Valley and just decides to visit Melbourne, this doesn’t mean that his vacation will be an average one. Because Melbourne is known for many things, one can pick from an endless list of possibilities that he can do while in this Australian city.  Even with the mouth-watering cuisines in Melbourne alone, one will surely be enticed to visit this city again. To know more about Melbourne, click here.

Author’s Bio: 
Andrew Connor is a travel and leisure blogger. He is currently working as a freelance travel writer and studying photography for fun.

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5 Top European City Break Destinations

There are many different cities in Europe. Some cities are popular with tourists both in Europe as well as abroad. The top 5 European city break destinations include Athens, Venice, Brussels, London, and Paris.

London is more popular than ever before because the city was chosen to host the Olympic games. However, London has always ranked as one of the most popular cities in the world. While in this famous city, you can take a tour of the city on one of the famous double decker buses. There are many different sightseeing tours that will take you around the city and show you all the sites. If you choose to explore London on your own, you will definitely want to see Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and London Bridge.

Tourists from all over the world come to visit Paris. While in this romantic and beautiful city, you may want to visit the Louvre and see the Mona Lisa. Or, you can watch the locals play soccer in the city parks. You may want to take a stroll in the Montmartre district and purchase one of the lovely pieces of art for sale. Perhaps you like shopping and want to look for some fashionable clothing during your trip. If so, you will definitely want to shop at the Galeries Lafayette. Of course, no visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. If you will be traveling only within the city, you may want to look for an accommodation near the airport.

Brussels is a popular destination for food enthusiasts. Brussels is well known for its excellent cuisine including waffles, mussels, and chocolates. The city is also well known for its excellent beer served in pubs and restaurants across the cities. Brussels has been described as a cultural melting pot by some. Because of this, visitors to the city will experience cultures from all over the world in this distinctly unique city.

Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and is very popular with tourists. In fact, tourism has been a popular since the 1800's. In fact, many people visiting the city elect to purchase second homes in the city so that they can visit often. There are so many things to do and see in this popular city that it would be impossible to list them in a short article. However, you must take a water taxi or a tour of the city by gondola.

Athens is another popular European tourist destination. The financial crisis that has rocked Greece has meant that many Europeans are electing to take holidays elsewhere. This means that the city is less crowded for the tourists that do venture to the city. In addition, there is a good exchange rate for the Euro as well as the American dollar. This means that your trip will be cheaper than it normally would. If you do decide to take a holiday in this ancient city, it is best to be flexible. Cutbacks mean that some attractions may have limited hours. However, visiting Athens is well worth any of the inconveniences that you may experience during your trip.

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Ten Great Travel Destinations for Casino Lovers

If you like the occasional flutter, why not consider adding a little fun to your gambling experience by taking it on the road? There are ten great travel destinations that casino lovers can enjoy. Not only will you have a blast gambling in these casino locations, you’ll also enjoy discovering these beautiful destinations.

Thus, here are ten great travel destinations for casino lovers to enjoy:

1. Las Vegas, Nevada - There’s no argument about Las Vegas being the number one travel destination for casino lovers. Aside from the casinos, you can also catch a glitzy show or go on a roller coaster ride. You can even get married by an Elvis impersonator!
2. Atlantic City, New Jersey - If you don’t want to visit the warm temperature west coast, then take a road trip to the east coast’s casino destination, Atlantic City. While you’re in Atlantic City, take a breather from the casinos and check out the Boardwalk.
3. London, England - People tend to think of rain, Big Ben, and the queen when it comes to London. They never connect London as a travel destination for gambling. It is, however, and a good one, especially since it has lots of casinos; thus, giving you a variety of gaming options to choose from.
4. Lake Tahoe, Nevada - Surrounded by scenic mountains and a serene lake, you can enjoy indoor and outdoor activities; enjoy fabulous foods, and of course, gamble. Although it’s smaller than Las Vegas, this Nevada town is still capable of providing you with a good time.
5. The Caribbean - Whether it’s Aruba, Curacao, the Dominican Republic, or the Bahamas, gambling on the islands is amazingly fun. To add to your fun, enjoy the beautiful sunshine, sandy white beaches, and flavorful island cuisine.
6. Melbourne, Australia - The land down under has a good time to offer anyone willing to travel a long distance. Its casinos draw some of the top poker players from around the world. Beyond this, you can have a great time exploring this fabulous country with an awesome international cuisine.
7. Monte Carlo - A playground for the rich and famous, you can enjoy gambling here – just make sure you have lots of cash. This is, after all, a town filled with wealthy people with heaps of cash to burn. Even if you can’t afford to spend as much money as the wealthy in Monte Carlo’s casinos, you can still appreciate just being able to see this beautiful place.
8. Sun City - South Africa: People always think of poverty when Africa is mentioned. This isn’t the case, however, with South Africa. This region of the world is moving upwards. It’s booming with business, and it’s now a hot destination for casino lovers. In addition, Sun City also offers great weather and magnificent safari trips.
9. Eastern Connecticut - This casino destination isn’t as well known as the east coast’s Atlantic City. There aren’t much tourist attractions here either. Nonetheless, you can still enjoy this beautiful casino area, which has two Indian casinos. Just take a road trip over to Boston or Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
10. Gambling cruise - If you love cruises and casinos, then combine the two together to enjoy a gambling cruise. You can gamble on board as well as at the resorts you stop at while on land.

Traveling and gambling can both be fun. So treat yourself to a combination of the two and have the best time of your life. Just remember to act responsibly at all times during your double adventure.

This guest post was written by Nisha on behalf of http://www.jackpotparty.com, where you can play casino games and slots online (US players can play for fun!)

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Singapore: A Food-Lover's Paradise!

Singapore is undoubtedly a food-lover’s paradise with combination of multifarious cuisines that include the Chinese, Indian, Malaysian and Indonesian. It would definitely not be wrong to say that eating is one of the most popular entertainments in Singapore. There are plenty of mouth watering  Singaporean delicacies which appease diverse tastes. It  is in fact one interesting gourmet journey you will love to explore. 

In a country where people do not eat to live but live to eat, food is a national obsession and a common topic of discussion. The best part is that you wouldn’t get the same old jaded food items, but an assorted mixture of different delicacies. Read along to know more about this cuisine, so that you can enjoy the best pick.

Where Do You Get Good Food In Singapore?

Good food is available in abundance, at almost every place in Singapore. The variety in Singaporean cuisine sometimes makes it difficult to make a choice. You can however get a chance to eat good food, whether you wish to enjoy street-food or a lavish meal at any sophisticated place.

1. Hawker Centers: Though hawker centers in Singapore have a history of being dingy, dim and wet, these centers have now been spruced up and even moved indoors in some cases. These centers and food courts have now evolved to become the most imperative sources of good food in Singapore. Hawker centers symbolize the age-old street food of Singapore, which never lose its popularity.
2. Wine And Dine: If you thought that Singaporean culture is limited to street food only, you really need to get a reality check. Singapore is brimming with some of the most seasoned hotels in the world. You can go on to choose a very posh place for dining in Singapore, where you shall get best food in terms of local and international cuisines.

There are number of famous hotel chains in Singapore, which have now become hub for best eating joints in the world. Chefs from all across the world come over to apply for jobs in Singapore. Only very talented and expert chefs get a Singapore Work Permit to work in Singapore.

What To Look Out For In Singapore Cuisine?

You are sure to get a lot of variety when you go on to search for different food delicacies in Singapore. It includes the best of Indian, Indonesian, Malay and Chinese cuisine. Seafood is particularly popular in Singapore, and you can enjoy the local style of noisy eating while gorging on your favorite delicacies.

Major highlights of seafood in Singapore include chili crabs, chut chut (a cone-shaped sea-shell), deep-fried baby squids, drunken prawns or pepper crabs. Don’t forget to miss out on chicken rice, kaya toast, fish head curry, Laksa, Zi Char and dim sums, on your tour to Singapore.

You could also enjoy some tropical fruits such as lychee, mangosteen, longan, mangoes and durian.

Author Bio: Priyanka Iyer is a content writer associated with one-visa.com. She is an avid reader who likes to travel and study the work and business cultures of different places. Priyanka has written about different topics related to travel tips, work and business opportunities in different countries and cost-effective strategies to start a business.

Image source by :- http://www.flickr.com/creativecommons/

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Clubbing Holidays in Malta

Malta holidays are proving themselves as the new, better and cheaper alternative to Ibiza holidays for a clubbing destination.

There are amazing clubs, stylish bars, restaurants and fun pubs to spend your evenings in, as well as huge events hosted by massive names such as Creamfields, Ministry of Sound and MTV’s Isle of MTV - a concert held every year near the capital city of Valetta in Malta.

Here are my top recommendations for places to go to find the best nightlife in Malta followed by the best places to recover and relax the following day.

The Night Before

Sliema

Sliema is a stylish resort on the east coast of Malta, perfect for couples and groups who want an unforgettable holiday together in the Mediterranean. Sliema has an attractive boulevard lined with elegant restaurants and trendy bars that look out on to the bright, azure ocean – the perfect place to start off your night. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the excellent Italian, Asian or traditional Maltese restaurants on the boulevard, before enjoy a refreshing cocktail or local beer and heading to the party capital, Paceville. Find out more info about Sliema.

Paceville

Located within the popular resort of St Julian’s, the suburb of Paceville is THE place to go out in Malta. There are a number of excellent bars with outdoor terraces and big TV screens (so you don’t miss the match!).  A great bar to try is Havana Bar which is actually six bars spread over two floors, or head to the Nordic Bar to relax on the plush sofas or dance to their retro hits playlist.

Numero Uno

Finish the night at Malta’s biggest open-air nightclub, Numero Uno. A short cab ride from St Julian’s in the town of Ta’Qali, Numero Uno is the perfect place to let your hair down. The al-fresco dance floor makes the most of the balmy Maltese evenings and the DJ guests who’ve played here are incredible. Past guests at Numero Uno include Hed Kandi, Basement Jaxx, Ministry of Sound and Creamfields.

The Day After

Valetta

The capital city of Malta is Valetta, located right next to the resorts of Sliema and St Julian’s on the east coast. The whole city is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the large number of chapels, forts, monuments and historic sites within the city, over 320 – which is pretty impressive when you consider Valetta is only 600m by 1000m! The sightseeing here and photo opportunities are a great way to make the most of Malta when the clubs are shut – be sure to visit to impressive harbour area with boat trips, shops and restaurants.

Ghajn Tuffieha Bay

If a day of sightseeing isn’t relaxing enough or too much effort after a night out, head instead to the gorgeous beach at Ghajn Tuffieha Bay. The beach was very recently awarded a Blue Flag for its cleanliness and environmental management. The long curve of gold-red sands backs onto impressive hills covered in natural, lush green vegetation and the waters are crystal-clear and bright blue. Ghajn Bay is easily reachable by car, bus or foot from the next door beach at Golden Bay.

Gozo

Take a water taxi from Sliema Bay or Valetta Harbour to the enchanting island of Gozo, just off the north coast of Malta. Gozo is much more rural and green than Malta – the perfect place to relax after a night out and soak up the tranquil Mediterranean atmosphere. Explore the harbour town of Mgarr or take a ramble around the north east coast to find the mysterious Calypso Cave or the beautiful sandy beach at Ramla Bay.

About the author: Steph is the local expert at lowcostholildays.com for holidays in Malta. She wants to show the world Malta offers so much more than just sunshine and beaches.

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A Weekend Trip to Melbourne

Having a high pay job is both good and bad. The money and the better lifestyle is the good part. The bad part is that you have way too much work now and no time.  When was the last time you went for a vacation?

Forget vacation- how about a trip? Can’t remember, eh?  Its time – we understand that with work load, you won’t be able to afford a nice long vacation but you sure can manage a weekend and go for a short trip instead!  We have Melbourne in mind – a perfect place for you to have a great time, wind out, relax, and get back to your busy life all charged up!

Melbourne is just one and half hour away by flight from Sydney and you can take any of the cheap flights that suit you the best. This neighboring city has a lot in store for you. There is an inspiring collection of museums depicting 1956 Olympics, fire fighting, maritime industry, immigration history and so on. Visit the famous historical buildings as you walk about town, Federation Square, Flinders Street Nation, Australian Centre for Moving Images and more.

That is not all- the Great Ocean Road, Queen Victoria Market, St. Kilda, Crown casino, Yarra River, Brighton Beach, Aquarium, Cook’s Cottage, Dandenong Ranges, explore Chinatown, and visit the Convention Centre. Take a train ride and get off at one of the many suburbs, explore the laneways and alleys of Melbourne.

Dig into some great food and in the pretty little eateries and restaurants. Chill at the cafes; enjoy the smooth wine and the lovely live music in a pub. Go on a shopping spree - the arcades retail stores, flagship stores, designer boutiques for some great clothes and shoes and bags to knickknacks in the souvenir shops.

If you have some time left, try the Phillip Island, visit the Zoo, the Rialto Tower, Sovereign Hill, Williamstown Southbank and Southgate, Carlton Garden and Royal Exhibition Building, and Healsvile Sanctuary. It now sounds like a lot, but trust me once you are there, you would not want to miss out anything.

For the best experience, make reservations well ahead of time. That way you not only leave no room for the stress of hunting for the best hotels, but also save yourself time and energy to explore the city itself.  The flights can come real cheap if you book through one of many of the flight engines like flightsaustralia.com, webjet.com.au, jetstar.com, flightentre.com etc. Here you will find some of the best flight deals for your trip anywhere within the country and even abroad!

What’s the point in working so hard and taking home a good amount check if you cannot enjoy the benefits?  You deserve a break.

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Florida Has More to Offer Than Meets the Eye

Many prospective vacationers do not recognize exactly how much Florida has to offer. If you are like most people, then thoughts of Disney World, spring training and South Beach parties come to mind. However, some of the most beautiful and relaxing beaches in the world are on Florida's Gulf Coast. Along the panhandle of Florida are hundreds of miles of pristine, white-sand beaches that attract a full range of people, including young spring breakers, middle-class families and retirees. One of the best ways to explore this region of Florida is by staying in one of the many South Walton vacation rentals that are available for families or parties of any size.

Pensacola Beach
The primary tourist attraction in the panhandle region is Pensacola Beach. Pensacola is known for its Air Force base and as the home of the Blue Angels. The annual air show featuring the Blue Angels is the area's top attraction, but at other times of the year, visitors enjoy Pensacola Beach, which is known for having one of the longest piers on the Gulf of Mexico. The Pensacola Beach Pier extends 1,471 feet into the gulf and offers the best opportunity for fishing in the area without having to hire a boat.

South Walton
Just east of Pensacola is one of the most underrated areas of the Florida panhandle. Those who have already discovered South Walton would like to keep it that way, but local businesses and realtors would like to see more people find out what this area has to offer.

South Walton is comprised of 15 distinct beach neighborhoods, and each of these neighborhoods has its own unique features that make it special. With such a large choice of locations for beach rental property, you are sure to find something that suits your lifestyle and personal preferences. Following are a few of the more popular South Walton neighborhoods:

• Miramar Beach – This is one of the most scenic beach towns of South Walton, and visitors flock here for its retro style and ability to spark memories of childhood beach outings.
• Grayton Beach – Grayton Beach is the most laid-back and natural of the South Walton neighborhoods.
• Seascape – Seascape provides visitors with resort-style vacationing, natural beauty and plenty of exciting activities.

South Walton vacation rentals are available throughout the year but are most popular in the spring and autumn. Because the area's popularity is rising, it is advised to book rentals as early as possible.

Citations:

• Photo credit

To learn more about the Florida Panhandle, contact Jeana Olchowy. Follow her @jolchowy25.

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What Animals You Can Expect to See on an African Safari

 

Animal Encounters on Safari

With a landmass of more than 11 million square miles and a population of more than one billion, Africa is the second largest and second most-populous continent on the planet. Its climate and topography are diverse, which gives rise to its abundant and varied flora and fauna. Equally varied are Africa's safari opportunities, together with the wildlife you can expect to see while on safari. It is important to keep in mind that not all species of game are prevalent across this huge continent, and it will be necessary to safari in specific areas, if the point of the safari is to view particular animals. The term "Africa's Big Five" is often associated with safaris, since it relates to Africa's greatest animals; the lion, elephant, leopard, rhinoceros and Cape buffalo. 

Although the term was originally used by hunters, and refers to the difficulties in hunting these majestic beasts, it is now commonly used when describing these animals, and conjures up exotic and exciting images of the African landscape. While they were once found in many locations, those seeking to view the Big Five will have the best chance if they visit game reserves in countries such as Kenya, Botswana, Tanzania and South Africa.

A trip to any reserve or park is sure to be a rewarding game-viewing experience, and visitors get the chance to witness for themselves the importance of conservation in protecting Africa's magnificent wildlife heritage.

Central, East and Southern Africa

No matter which game reserves or parks safari enthusiasts visit in the Central or East African regions, they are sure to see more game than anywhere else on the continent. For example, visitors interested in observing the migration of wildebeest or zebras can observe this year-round in Tanzania and Kenya. From late July to September, the beasts can be seen in Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve, prior to them moving south to Tanzania's Serengeti plains where they will bear their young. Around late February the herd then returns to Kenya. Kenya's Masai Mara National Reserve and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park constitute the greatest wildlife habitat in the world.

Southern Africa also offers plenty of opportunities for awesome game-viewing experiences. The most popular animals that you are likely to see are featured in the following top ten list, in no particular order, since everyone has their personal favorites:

• Lions
• Elephants
• Leopards
• Rhinos
• Cape Buffalos
• Zebras
• Giraffes
• Mountain gorillas
• Cheetahs
• Hippos

Africa's conservation efforts got a huge boost in March, 2012 when the Heads of States of the Republics of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana and Angola signed the KAZA Treaty, which protects wildlife by establishing the world's largest transfrontier conservation area, spanning five countries. Safaris and ecotourism are becoming increasingly important to the African economy. Conservation of biological and cultural diversity and heritage empowers communities to fight poverty with economic development and to work towards sustainability.

This ensures that Africa's animals have a better chance of survivial than ever before, and that they will, hopefully, be around for safari goers to see for generations to come.

Article by Sense Africa

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Frankfurt's World Beating Festivals

A Grand History

Germany’s love affair with festivals has been around since the Medieval period, where these events were a prime time for residents to meet together and trade goods.

Nowadays, the setup is a little bit different, but these exact same festivals still persist.

Dippemess is the oldest folk festival in Frankfurt. It takes place twice a year, once around Easter and once at the end of September. Originally, the festival was set up as a bi-annual market; these days, it is set up more like an amusement park.

Seeing the City

Festivals are also a great way to see the city cheaply. For instance, during the Museumsuferfest (the Museum Riverbank Festival), 20 different museums in the district are open well into the late hours of the night.

The day also hosts live music and shows, so there’s plenty of things to do for families.

For visitors who prefer a different kind of scene, the Nacht der Clubs (Night of the Clubs) offers entry to around 20 clubs on a 12 euro ticket, making it the place to visit for university travellers. Also, the dress code is more relaxed to encourage new people to check out the scene.

Off the Beaten Path

The Wolkenkratzer Festival (or Skyscraper Festival) takes place irregularly with the next one scheduled for 2013. However, if you do manage to catch this festival on a year it’s being held, you’re in for one of the more unique festivals in Germany, if not Europe.

It celebrates the skyscrapers of Frankfurt, with entry to the buildings for visitors, sky-divers, base jumpers and more. Likewise, the Luminale festival is a “festival of light” that takes place once every two years.

The buildings of downtown Frankfurt celebrate by putting out special light installations; the 2008 festival alone featured 220 light installations.

The festivals are excellent times to get the most out of your trip to Germany; there’s likely to be one on offer that suits your interests exactly.

There's so much to do and such a wide variety, have a look at this comprehensive list with everything from world renowned trade shows to wine festivals.

The culture of Germany is very much about celebrating pretty much everything, so when you do go, because you must, you should try to find a hotel in Frankfurt that's right at the heart of the action, just to make sure you don't miss a thing and have the festival experience of a lifetime.

Catherine Halsey writes for a digital marketing agency on a range of subjects. This article links back to Frankfurt http://www.radissonblu.com/hotel-frankfurt

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Top 5 Landmarks In Singapore

Singapore represents one of the most luxurious, and one of the most diverse locations in South East Asia. The city state acts as a crossroads of sorts for different parts of Asia, and combines traditional Malay and Colonial culture with Chinese, Indian and other diasporas. As a result, Singapore is a city that is rich in history of visitors, while being generally more expensive than most other tourist destinations. If you’re travelling to Singapore for a short period of time, you might want to consider breaking down your destinations to a few standout landmarks. From the Sky Park in Marina Bay Sands to Sentosa Island, and the Singapore Flyer, it is possible to see some of the best of Singapore over a couple of days.

1 - Sky Park, Marina Bay Sands

One of the most luxurious examples of Singapore’s modern architecture, the Sky Park resort in the Marina Bay Sands area of the central city is defined by its three 55 story towers, and by its integrated resort features and amazing views over the bays. Visitors can pay to travel around the observation deck without taking on the cost of the rest of the resort, which includes a casino and performance spaces. Designer Moshe Safdie built the towers and the surrounding resort around a pack of cards theme, resulting in the Sky Park having multiple shopping and accommodation layers and viewpoints.

2 - National Museum of Singapore

First opened in 1849 as a library for the growing city state during Colonial occupation, the National Museum of Singapore has expanded in importance and the scope of its holdings. Designed to cover different stages of Singaporean and Asian civilization, the Museum covers zoological and ethnographical trends in Southeast Asia, and also features exhibits on local Malay culture. Art exhibitions, written and visual archives, and precious objects from around Asia also help to make the museum one of the standout examples of its type.

3 - Queen Elizabeth Walk

Renamed in 1953 for Queen Elizabeth, the Walk forms part of Singapore’s downtown Esplanade. Long a part of Singapore’s history the esplanade provides a scenic coastal route that also offers views and access to the Marina Bay. Walks around the Esplanade can also take in theatres, and extensive monuments to Singaporean history. These monuments include an Indian National Army Plaque, a Cenotaph, and guides to the changing shoreline.

4 - Sentosa Island

A favourite with families, the Sentosa Island resort is on the Southern tip of Singapore, and features a wide range of natural and man made attractions. As well as sandy beaches and views back over the city, Sentosa Island includes diving and marine life parks, as well as high quality accommodation, music events, and links to the nearby Universal Studios theme park. Sentosa Island can be easily reached from the mainland by boat and subway.

5 - Singapore Flyer

Similar to the London Eye, the Singapore Eye, or Observational Wheel, is 165m high, and 150m in diameter. The wheel’s capsules can take 28 passengers, who can enjoy a panoramic view over Singapore, the river and Marina Bay. Perhaps the best way to see the whole of the city state and neighbouring islands.

Sebastian is a full-time travel blogger. He's current working on an exciting brand exposure project for DirectAsia - a provider of travel insurance in Singapore.

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Five Extreme Sport Activities that are Perfect for a Holiday to Morocco

Many individuals taking a holiday do so to relax and enjoy the sun and silence.  They want to have a peaceful trip that involves less chaos and stress.  For others, like me, no vacation is complete without some adrenaline pumping activities that will entertain the mind and challenge the body.  If you enjoy the extreme on your trips around the world, try the following extreme sports when you take your holiday to beautiful Morocco.

Extreme Cycling

Take bicycle riding to the next level while in Morocco with extreme cycling.  It is not the mode of transportation that makes this activity extreme but the lands upon which you will travel.  There are several steep routes that are considered to be some of the toughest cycling courses in the whole world.  The ground is rocky and the hills are steep.  However, the adventure is well worth it as you get to take a new approach to viewing the beautiful Moroccan countryside.  By the way, the course is on a hill side that is so steep it has frightened even the most seasoned of cyclists.  Be aware of safety, but take this approach to seeing Morocco and the adventure you have will far outweigh the moments of fear.

Rock Climbing

Todra Gorge in Morocco offers a great landscape for extreme activity as well.  At this location, you can climb the steep landscape of the country and get your workout in while testing your strength and might.  The climbing path can be dangerous so be sure that you are prepared and safely completing this activity.  Guides are available to help you to climb Todra Gorge with safety and supervision that will ensure that you have the safest rock climbing experience possible in the extreme conditions.  This is a must do activity for anyone who loves the extreme and wants to experience excitement, Moroccan style.

Rafting

The term rafting almost seems like a relaxing activity.  In Morocco, however, this could not be further from the truth.  One of the most fun rafting experiences in Morocco happens at the Ali Mohammed Gorge.  Here, the watery adventure course starts out slow for rafters but the tranquillity is only short-lived.  The waters shift and change into a choppy course that will have rafters tossing and turning with the power of the water.  It is a must see adventure for many when they come to Morocco and one of the most popular activities on the waters.  Try it out the next time you are in Morocco and enjoy the wild, and bumpy, ride.

Surfing

Surfing is a great extreme sport to take part in in Morocco.  Ride the waters and choppy waves as you cruise.  The waters can be wild at times so be prepared for an exhilarating adventure if this is your choice for an extreme sport while on vacation.  Who knows, you may even get to see some wonderful wildlife and aquatic friends as you make your journey on the waters.  Located on the sea, Morocco offers many great surfing spots from which to choose.  Ask the locals for some advice or take a look around.  The waters can be your playground for extreme fun on your next trip to Morocco.

Kite Surfing

If regular surfing is just not enough, there is another great, and extreme, sports activity that involves the Moroccan waters.  Kite surfing takes surfing and elevates it to a whole new level.  Instead of using a board alone to catch some killer waves, a kite like device is installed on the board.  More appropriately described as attached, this allows for wind propulsion across the service of the water.  This will give you the ride of your life across gorgeous Moroccan waters and a view of the country amidst an adrenaline rush.

If extreme sports are your kind of thing check out Explora Morocco and see just what awaits you in this amazing country.

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Google Maps: Your Advanced Travel Guide

If you’re an adventurous person who likes to travel a lot, you might have experienced your fair share of getting lost at one time or the other. If you hate the idea of being lost but find it difficult to properly use a map, try out Google Maps! Google Maps is a modern, open source innovation developed by Google to help with the issue of navigation.

Mobility of Google MapsGoogle Maps is literally an interactive map that you can access through your personal computer or laptop to help point out where you exactly are in the world. Google Maps is the most detailed mapping tool that has ever been invented so far, employing accurate satellite-based mapping that allows you to pinpoint the exact place, location and area of anything or anybody.

Google Maps is useful for travelers who want to find the nearest B&B or the nearest gas-station in the middle of nowhere. Trekkers will find Google Map useful as it allows them to get the lay of the land even before they set foot in a specific area. People can now readily know where hospitals, hospices, and cafés are even without the help of a tour guide or a guidebook.

Google Maps can even be employed as a means to guide you to a certain place. If your vehicle or phone possesses a GPS system, this can readily be synchronized with Google Maps to help point you into a specific spot with just a few clicks.

Accessibility and user-friendlyGoogle Maps is not only relegated to PC or laptop use as it can also be accessed through the use of your mobile phone, Android, or what-have-you. This makes Google Maps readily accessible and convenient. 

Googel Maps can also be a great way to track things or to simply enable you to navigate where you want to go without the risk of being lost. Google Maps is user-friendly and most of all, it’s free for all!

If you’re new to a place or area, Google Maps can help you become acquainted with the ins and outs of the whole place. If you want to know about the specifics of a certain area when you’re planning for a visit, you can use Google Maps to plan the specific areas you’d want to visit. Find that guidebooks are too unspecific?
Try to use Google Maps to pinpoint the where-exactly of a certain place, monument, structure, or building. 

Because it is easily accessible via a variety of different mediums, Google Maps is a reliable field buddy when you’re out exploring. If you’re in a new area, you can immediately access Google maps to get the lowdown on the sights and sounds of the place, so you’ll never have to ask for directions again!

If getting lost is becoming more and more of a problem for you in your home town, in the city, or anywhere else for that matter, Google Maps should be in your handy set of digital tools to help see you through and guide you wherever you may want to go!

About The Author:Norris Lemuel Lasay has been working as an online article writer for quite some time, covering different topics such as gadget reviews, social media marketing, wireless internet and other technology related topics.

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Beach holidays in Gran Canaria: A blissful experience

 When it comes to beach holidays in summer, the Canary Islands are one of the top choices among travellers, and among them luxury resort of Anfi Del Mar is a special place on the island loved by tourists the world-over. The most developed of the Canary islands, Gran Canaria is host to millions of tourists each year at its scenic beach-side clubs and resorts where people come to relax and have a real good time. Being the second largest island among the seven majors Gran Canaria is a sure shot dream destination for tourists from all cultures and groups.
 

The Anfi Del Mar resort is located on the breathtaking shoreline at the La Vergas and is having a carved curvature of volcanic rock. The region has four big holiday clubs, which provide ample amount of privacy and luxurious facilities. The quality of services provided is so good that the only concern of travellers is choosing one out of the four clubs. This resort founded by Bjorn Lyng, an entrepreneur from Norway has become the world’s most famous place for timeshare holidays.
 

The Gran Canaria Island is almost a perfect round shaped and the tourists prefer to visit the southern part due to its microclimate and choose the east or west coast depending on the nature of their trip. While the eastern coast has flat sandy beaches, the western coast sees tourists attracted to adventurous activities due to its rocky mountainous beaches. The Western part is also preferred by the newlywed couples as it offers scenic beauty and long private romantic beach walks. Anfi Del Mar is exclusively designed for luxury tourism and has received many awards from travel organizations for its quality services.
 

The luxury tourism at Gran Canaria also hosts some well known celebrities on their surprise holiday trips and is a paradise for paparazzi but the excellent services and privacy provided by resorts like Anfi Del Mar has made it the first choice of many renowned Hollywood celebrities. The Luxury resort is well equipped with exotic spas, golf courses and kids play areas. Once there you are guaranteed to never want to go back! The tourists looking for scenic beauty can find peace of mind by wandering throughout the cliffs and can trek around the rocky beaches. The resort also offers the luxury of cycling and hiking to the adventure seeking tourists making the Island a perfect beach holiday destination.

The Gran Canaria enjoys a very tourism friendly climate with day time temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees max all round the year and offers mesmerising views of the North Atlantic Ocean thus provides ample opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. All in all, beach holidays in the Gran canaria are every traveller’s dream come true. The experience of a great holiday in the Canary Islands is pretty unique and we recommend you to try it on your next vacations. So go ahead and plan your next trip to Gran Canaria!

This guest article was provided by Travel & Leisure Group, trusted timeshare resales. Image credit to krystianb77.

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Child Friendly Destinations in Larnaca

Traveling with your kids may be a bit complicated, especially if you do not have a list of places, which they will certainly love and enjoy. Children get easily bored with ordinary activities. This makes it even more necessary for parents to search for a perfect place where they can have lots of fun. To assist you with this matter, we recommend the following places in Larnaca.

Camel Park MazotosThis may not be located in Larnaca, but it is just a few minutes away from your chosen hotel accommodation. Your kids will be delighted to ride on a real camel. It lasts for 15 minutes and well-trained camel will allow you to see the countryside on ride its hump. Entrance fee only costs 2 euros for children and 3 euros for adults; but a camel ride would be priced at 6 euros for kids and 9 euros for adults.

After taking a camel back ride, you are free to swim at the pool and have fun under the sun or simply allow your kids to enjoy themselves at bouncy castles, sitting teacups, and swings for the perfect amusement park experience. Before you leave, make sure you visit its version of Noah’s Ark and feed the animal with carobs for only one euro. It will be a fun-filled day at Camel’s Park and your kids are guaranteed to enjoy every single moment within its midst.

Cheeky Monkeys PlaygroundThis place knows how much your children could be very active. It has prepared many activities to keep them engaged while you tour the city together. It is also providing English Lessons incorporated with its learning center to guarantee your kids will have fun while learning new English words. Your child will be delighted to spend his or her birthday in its midst because of the spacious playground and family fun park as host to this memorable day.

Lucky Star ParkGer ready for a day filled with laughter and entertainment at Lucky Star Fun Park. There is a perfect ride for anyone, including kids and young couples. It is easily accessible from various places in Cyprus, which makes it one of the best family destinations in the region. Bumper cars, motorcycles, Safari train, monorail, roller coaster, antique cars, bumper boats, trambolino, Go-Karts, bouncy castle, carousel, and the unforgettable experience on ride the Elevator of Action. It is one of the best amusement parks to visit with your children and everyone is guaranteed to have so much fun together.

There is no stopping the fun once you are at Larnaca. You can choose variety of restaurants and beaches to visit and explore anytime of the day or just lounge at the comfort of your affordable hotel in Larnaca, while they watch their favorite cartoons.

Nevertheless, it will bring them much delight if you will take them to any of these fun places for them to cherish on your way back home.

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Hawaii’s Biggest Secret

Everyone knows that Hawaii has incredible beaches, breathtaking snorkeling and world renowned volcanoes. But did you know about its number one best kept secret? It’s the farmers markets.

This isn’t something I’d ever considered. I came across one on Kauai when I was vising on a Hawaii cruise stop. Considering that I was in the middle of an all-inclusive vacation, I didn’t expect a farmers market to be as exciting as it was. All of our meals were taken care of, but I managed to find some pretty tasty fresh snacks to pack along with my on my day of sightseeing.

The array of fresh fruits and vegetables are staggering, and completely expected in such a tropical environment as Hawaii. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw how big avocadoes can actually be! Expect to see find macadamia nuts and coffee grown nearby, and fresh seafood and meat. There are even artists and artisans selling their crafts and homemade goods.

It depends where you are, but there are island markets running every day at various times. You can pick up a schedule of the farm markets from the Hawaii Farm Bureau, a government organization that organizes the markets. Because they’re scheduled, the vendors are well prepared for the rain. All of the markets are set up under vast expanses of tents, which makes shopping more comfortable, rain or shine.

Whether you’re staying in Hawaii on your own, or you’re just on shore for a day tour from your Hawaii cruise, the farmers markets are a fantastic experience. Take pictures of the colorful stands, sample the produce and talk with the islanders and learn more about the island life. If you’re lucky, you may even pick up a traditional Polynesian recipe while you’re there. Here’s one of my favorites (I make it as a starter whenever I have company over for dinner now):

Rumaki

• sliced bacon
• teriyaki sauce
• water chestnuts
• fresh pineapple

There aren’t set amounts for this recipe; make as much or as little as you like.

• Slice each piece of bacon into three, lengthwise
• Wrap a chunk of pineapple and a chestnut with a piece of bacon, and secure with a toothpick
• Once you’ve used up your ingredients marinate them in the teriyaki sauce (homemade is always better); marinate as long as you can
• Place onto a clean baking dish and drizzle the remaining sauce over top
• Broil until the bacon is crisp
• Enjoy straight away!

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3 Island Getaways that Won't Break the Bank

Tropical fruits, colorful drinks, and picturesque sunsets all underscore the rest and relaxation that vacationers expect of island getaways. Escaping the stress of everyday life without breaking the bank just takes a little planning and investigation. From finding a good price for San Jose airport parking to saving on plane tickets and lodging, you can enjoy the following island getaways without sacrificing your retirement funds.

HawaiiYou’re probably asking, “Why include Hawaii in a list of affordableisland getaways?” It’s true that Hawaii can get a bit pricey, numbering somewhere in several thousand dollars per head. However, with some planning and forethought you should be able to enjoy what Hawaii has to offer without burning through all your savings. An added tip: good planning actually goes a long way to help save money on any vacation, from booking the hotel to reserving your spot at the Oakland airport long-term parking lot.
 

First, you’ll have to cross “island hopping” off your to-do list. Traveling island to island will cost you extra. Fortunately, each of Hawaii’s main islands offers a wealth of luxury and activities for visitors. The more popular islands include:

• The Big Island: Larger than all of the other islands combined, the Big Island is home to a vast array of climate zones, from snowy mountains to sandy beaches. Visitors are greeted by waterfalls, botanical gardens, rainforests, and one of the most active volcanoes in the world.
• Maui: The second largest Hawaiian island, Maui is home to some of the best beaches in the world. You can expect fantastic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and whale-watching opportunities every winter.
• Oahu: Home to the state capital, Oahu is actually the most populous of the islands. Oahu is filled with a diverse natural and cultural mix of modern art and entertainment.

The Outer BanksA 200-mile chain of barrier islands, the Outer Banks is just off the coast of North Carolina and are actually accessible by freeway. These islands were stamped into history on December 17, 1903 when the Wright brothers first took flight at the Kill Devil Hills near Kitty Hawk. The Wright Brothers National Monument commemorates the siblings and their revolutionary flights.

Of course, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy all that the Outer Banks has to offer. If you’re looking for sunny, sandy beaches, the Outer Banks has you covered. For amateur and veteran anglers, the Outer Banks is home to large populations of marlin, sailfish, and tuna. The sandy dunes of Jockey’s Ridge State Park make for great scenery, and the islands’ high winds create excellent sailing, hang gliding, and windsurfing opportunities.
 

The U.S. Virgin IslandsKnown as America’s Caribbean Paradise, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a territory owned by the United States but are geographically part of the Virgin Islands. Technicalities aside, the U.S. Virgin Islands present a wonderful glimpse into Caribbean culture and history. The area consists mainly of three islands—St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas—and each offer something different, from lavish luxuries to pristine beaches to sugar cane plantations and rum distilleries.
 

What are you waiting for? Reserve your plane tickets and LAX airport parking spot, hunt around online for deals on hotels, and get packing!

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Cape Reinga New Zealand North Island

Cape Reinga: Planning a New Zealand Vacation

Explore the sand, sun, sea and sites at Cape Reinga

Cape Reinga is the perfect New Zealand adventure destination. If you are interested in New Zealand diving, New Zealand backpacking, or if you just want to bike New Zealand, then you will definitely want to add Cape Reinga to your New Zealand travel itinerary.

The first step in planning your Cape Reinga vacation is to decide what type of New Zealand accommodations you are interested in. Your best bet for finding a cape motel, cape lodge, cape hotel or cape island B&B is to browse through lists of accommodations in Auckland, New Zealand. When selecting a place to stay, try to find a room located near the Cape Reinga attractions that you are interested in. You can find accommodations near the cape harbour, the beach cape, the cape bay or the cape river.

View from clifff of Tasman Sea 

The next step in planning your New Zealand adventure travel is to identify sites to visit. Cape Reinga offers dozens of unique sites that you will not want to miss. Some of these sites include: the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, the sand dunes in Northland, New Zealand, farmland, North Island New Zealand and the Te Werahi Beach. Visit these sites by biking, hiking or hiring a car. If you want to learn more about the history of these wonderful sites then you may want to book a New Zealand tour.

Cape Reinga Lighthouse

The third step is to decide on what activities you would like to participate in while on your New Zealand vacation. While visiting the sand dunes on Te Werahi Beach, try hot rides. This is a favorite local activity that involves sliding down the sand dunes. You may also be interested in New Zealand train tours, New Zealand backpacking tours, New Zealand golf tours, New Zealand Hiking and luxury New Zealand wine tours.

The final step in planning your New Zealand holidays is to take care of pre-vacation tasks. First of all you will want to take out New Zealand travel insurance. This will protect you in case something happens on your vacation that requires you to seek medical attention or that puts you in a financial crunch while visiting the cape. Next you will want to pickup traveler's checks. This is safer to carry than cash is. Finally you will want to take care of your visa and passport requirements.

After making all of your New Zealand vacation travel arrangements, all that is left to do is to anticipate all of the fun that you will have. During the 24 to 48 hours leading up to your vacation, make sure that your home is also prepared for your vacation. Throw away items in your fridge that can spoil while you’re gone, unplug electrical devices to avoid accidental fires, make arrangements for a friend or family member to take care of your pets and inform your landlord or a friend that you will be on vaction.

 

Citation: Photographer of Lighthouses is Ben Crawford.

Come join us and share your images and tell of

your experiences during your New Zealand holiday.

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The Top 10 Nature Excursions in Singapore

From the main island of Pulau Ujong to smaller islands like Pulau Ubin, there is always an adventure ahead of you in Singapore. Here are 10 of the best nature excursions out there, but they are in no specific order, because one is just as breathtaking as the next.
 

Tree Top Walk
This one-of-a-kind, free-standing suspension bridge takes you high into the forest canopy and spans from two of the highest points of the MacRitchie forest. From here, you have views of the reservoir, monkeys, lemurs, rare trees and over 80 species of birds.
 

Lower Peirce Trail
This guided trail takes you through the Central Nature Reserve, along the edge of MacRitchie reservoir. This 4,942 acre forest has trees that are dated to be over 100 years old. This forest also features over 840 flowering plants and is home to the Flying Lemur, Twin-Barred tree snake and the clouded monitor lizard.
 

Pulau Hantu
This beautiful island getaway is perfect for snorkeling, swimming and camping. It is actually made up of two small inlets (Hantu Besar and Hantu Kecil) and at low tide it is possible to walk across the lagoon that connects them. The island is filled with sheltered beaches, swimming lagoons and coral reefs.
 

Labrador Reserve
This 39-acre reserve is the only coral reef on the mainland and features a coastal hill forest as well as a rocky shoreline. The forest has an aerial staircase perched on the Cliffside, filled with panoramic views and abundant wildlife. The live coral shoreline features octopus, nudibranchs and seahorses.
 

Sungei Buloh
This freshwater wetland reserve sits on 321 acres, which have become famous for their unique animal and plant life. Among the trails and boardwalks, you will encounter monitor lizards, wild otters and the residential crocodile. The mangrove trees are filled with climbing crabs, and the water is filled with mudskippers and Archer fish.
 

Fort Canning
Fort Canning Park Island is the tallest natural viewing site in all of Singapore. This park is filled with spice gardens, spiritual burial grounds and botanical gardens. Victoria walk will take you on a leisurely stroll along the bay or hike up the stairs to the very top of the hill.
 

Asian Gardens
Located by Jurong Lake, the Chinese and Japanese Gardens are 33 acres of serenity and peace. This island features Chinese style pavilions, a seven story tall pagoda and Chinese bonsai or “penjing” displays. A full day can be spent strolling through the gardens but the recently have also added a live turtle and tortoise exhibit.
 

Jurong Bird Park
Sitting on over 50 acres this is the world’s largest bird park. It features 380 bird species with 29 endangered species. This unique park is an all-day adventure with walk-in exhibitions as well as a Lory Loft, Southeast Asian Bird Aviary, African Waterfall Aviary and a Pelican Cove.
 

Pulau Ubin
This island is the only village or “kampong” left in Singapore. It can only be accessed by “bumboat” that you would catch at Changi. Walking along the village’s natural paths you will be swept away by the coconut palm trees, rubber plantations and abundant wildlife.
 

Chek Jawa
Located on Pulau Ubin, this intertidal flat features various ecosystems all in one spot. Among the mangrove trees you will find both land animals and sea life together during low tide. The beach lovers have both rocky and sandy shores to choose from as well as sand bars. There is also a sea grass lagoon and coastal hill forest to explore.
 

With no distinctive seasons and a tropical rainforest climate year round, even in the wild there is serenity in Singapore. If you haven't been there yet, it's time you got there ASAP! Just be sure to have your passport, travel insurance & boarding pass! No need for vaccinations, Singapore is free from those kinds of problems :)

Jackie Osborn writes about travel, finance & more at http://travelinsurance.org.

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