Vacation and Holidays

London Cinemas - Capturing Classics to Recent Flicks

2009-06-07T02:06:00.003-07:00

From classics to recent released Hollywood films, London cinema theatres which are known for comfort, style and service play all kind of films. If you try to find out cinemas all over Greater London, you will surely encounter numerous multi-screen venues. Cinemas around Leicester Square offer you great options for first-run and independent films.

Odeon Leicester Square

The Odeon Leicester Square is a cinema theatre stands on the eastern side of Leicester Square, London. Built on the site of Alhambra Theatre, Odeon Leicester Square is black polished granite building and is by blue neon. It is one of the most renowned cinemas in Europe and is popular for playing many European and World film premieres. With ticket prices ranging in between 14 pounds and 19 pounds, it is considered to be the most expensive theatre in the world. The Odeon Leicester Square is the largest single screen cinema in UK. With all modern technologies, the cinema has the seating capacity of approximately 1700 people and is arranged in Royal Circle, Rear Circle and Stalls.

Odeon West End

Odeon West End was built in 1930 on the south side of Leicester Square, London and was known as the Leicester Square Theatre. Until 1988, it operated under the name of Leicester Square Theatre. In the year 1968, it was renovated and the stalls and the single circle were remodeled. Today, the Odeon West End theatre features two screens, one with 500 seats and the other with 832 seats. The cinema theatre is often used for smaller film premieres and also for hosting the BFI London Film Festival.

Empire, Leicester Square

The Empire is a large cinema which is located on the northern side of the Leicester Square, London. The Empire Theatre was designed by Thomas Verity and first opened on 17th April 1884 as a theatre as well as ballet scene. It was renovated by MGM and opened in 1962 with three screens. Later two more screens were added to the theatre and are equipped with latest sound and light systems. The theatre is used for film premieres and first runs.

Prince Charles Cinema

Designed by Carl Fisher and Associates Architects, the Prince Charles Cinema was opened in 1962. It is located in Leicester Place in the West End of London. The price of the tickets for the shows in Prince Charles Cinema starts as low as 1.50 pounds. It plays all kinds of films from classic to recent released Hollywood films. It plays 10 movies on a single screen in a week. The single screen has the seating capacity of 472 seats.

National Film Theatre

National Film Theatre now known as BFI Southbank is located on the southern end of Waterloo Bridge, London, UK. The BFI is operated by the British Film Institute and specializes in showing classic, independent and non-English language films. National Film Theatre was opened in 1951 on occasion of the Festival of Britain. In 2007, the National Film Theatre was re-launched in a larger premise. The site of BFI Southbank now includes three pre-existing cinemas, a studio, a mediatheque, a shop and a bar and restaurant.

London IMAX

London IMAX, designed by Avery Associates Architects, stands on the South Bank district of London, UK. Completed in May 1999, the London IMAX cinema is operated by the British Film Institute. London IMAX in the South Bank is renowned for featuring the largest screen in Britain and also has the seating capacity of 500 people. It has also been awarded with a Design Council Millennium Products Award, Civic Trust Award and several other awards after its opening. The cinema is located just north of the Waterloo Station thus making it easily accessible. The other IMAX cinema is at the Science Museum in South Kensington Albertopolis.

London has a fantastic array of cinema theatres. People of all genres can visit the theatres and have a far better experience of watching cinema in London.

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Fantastic Five of Paris

2009-06-07T02:06:00.001-07:00

Paris often referred to as "City of lights" is one place to break free. There are many places which will make you happy and your trip a journey of a lifetime. If somebody wants to choose one place in Europe to visit, then Paris would definitely be one of the best places to visit. From the Eiffel Tower to Arc de Triomphe, everything is marvelous. If a list has to be made (which is very tough) about 5 must see places in Paris which one must visit, then the list must include the following:

Eiffel tower

Standing 300m tall, this is one of the modern architectural masterpieces. Designed and built by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the centenary of French revolution in 1889, it has two restaurants in the lower level while there is a bar, replica of Gustave Eiffel and a souvenir shop on the top platform. If you will go into figures then it weighs 7000 tons but there is more into it than these figures. Eiffel towers look awesome in the night with all the lights on.

The Louvre

Being the largest art museum in the world, Louvre is another must see in Paris. The Louvre's collection is overwhelming in size which includes many paintings, coins, antiques and sculptures. The famous painting of Mona Lisa by Picasso is also kept here. It has a long list of items which is from ages and also of different origin and civilization. The museum pass cards work here and the tickets are half priced after 3 PM and on Sunday's.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, is arguably the most stunning gothic athedral in the world. Its construction was started in 1163 and it took almost 200 years to complete. It has witnessed many events related to big wigs like Napoleon, Pope John Paul II and others. This place had witnessed some of the greatest moment in the history of the city. Come to this place and see how the beauty and the ambience impress you.

Arc de Triomphe

It was commissioned by Napoleon after he won the battle against Austerlitz in 1806, but it was finally built in 1836. Major victories are written on the top of the arc and the small ones are written on the inside walls. You can go to the top through staircase or by taking an elevator the view of Paris from here is beautiful. This is one of the places in Paris which is always on the top of the list to visit.

Sacre Coeur

Last but not the least in my list is Sacre Coeur/Montmartre. This church is not painted as it appears to be but the whiteness is through the liquid secreted by the white stone. This place will have a grand effect on you because of its size and location. This is a beautiful place to go and remember the good days once you are back to your home.

Go and see how the beauty of these places mesmerizes you. Paris is and will always be a tourist hub and center of attraction for its monuments and museums.

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Hawaii Vacation With the Top Maui Show Activities and Best Dining Places

2009-06-07T02:05:00.000-07:00

Once upon a Maui time, evening entertainment meant luaus and dinner cruises. Not anymore. Today, Maui offers highly artistic shows and theatre presentations. However, the top Maui shows below will not only bring you to a high artistic level; they also bring you to a deep appreciation of Maui’s colorful past by combining modern art with Maui history, legend, myths, and culture.

One of the most reknown Maui show is Kupanaha, a dinner show that combines spellbinding illusions and magic, hula, Polynesian dance, and chant in order to weave Hawaiian myth and history. The show is a family performance of the famed Baran family in collaboration with the award-winning Kanoeau Dance Academy. The Baran family includes the award-winning illusionist Jody Baran, his wife Kathleen, and their daughters. Kupanaha is 2 ½ hours long, and is held weekly from Tuesday through Saturday at Kaapanali Beach Hotel’s Kanahele Room Theatre.

Part of the show is a three-course dinner. There are no illusions when it comes to food here— the scrumptious appetizer, entrée, and dessert are all for real. Menu includes Grilled Jumbo Garlic Shrimp, pork egg rolls, tofu, and pineapple cheesecake. There’s a different menu for kids, which include hamburgers, cheese fries, and vanilla ice cream. There’s also an open Lava Bar which churn out magical concoctions such as their Flashing Mojito.
In West Maui is the island’s biggest show, the Ulalena. Ulalena provides ultimate theatrical experience with its state-of-the-art venue, 8-channel surround sound, original music and amazing choreography, talented casts, and traditional Hawaiian chant and dance. Rich costumes, acrobatics, stage design, and lightning are all wonderfully blended to bring Hawaiian legend and history to modern audience. This musical extravaganza explores relationships between people, nature, mythology, and history. If you want to see the show, you have to make reservations in advance. The show is 75 minutes long, and is held at the Maui Myth and Magic Theatre located at 878 Front Street, Lahaina.

Surrounded by an ocean abounding with marine life, it is not the least surprising that Maui also has a plethora of oceanfront restaurants bringing “foods of the sea” right to the dinner table. Expect these Maui sea food restaurants to offer the best Pacific fishes, shrimps, lobsters, crabs — cooked in a variety of ways.. But if you want to taste the best way fishes and other seafood are prepared, head to the top Maui seafood restaurants below.

Kimo’s is a two-story, ocean side restaurant located at 845 Front Street in the coastal town of Lahaina. The oldest restaurant on Front Street, Kimo’s is found amidst shops and other restaurants.

Kimo’s has a dining room and a lanai, which gives a view of the ocean, and the islands of Lanai and Molokai. Open since 1977, the restaurant’s main dining room upstairs show a strong New England architecture reminiscent of Lahaina’s missionary days. Kimo’s serve mouthwatering dishes that include prime rib, prime steaks, and hula pie. You can select from their list of fresh fishes, and have it cooked the way you want it to be. Kimo’s offer three types of fish preparation: you can have teriyaki-glazed broiled fish, parmesan cheese-coated fish, or baked fish with ginger and orange zest.” Kimo’s is always full so you should make reservations in advance to avoid waiting in line.

Lahaina Fish Co at 831 Front Street offers nothing less but great food and spectacular ocean views. The restaurant is literally set right on the ocean, and opens for lunch and dinner. If you want excellent food with a small budget, Lahaina Fish Co serves affordable seafood-pasta dishes. Lahaina Fish Co’s menu also includes different kinds of burgers, tacos and chips, shrimp baskets, pupus, calamari, salads, and steaks “from the land and the sea.” There are other gustatory delights like seafood puttanesca, Alaskan king crab legs, and local fares that include stir-fried dishes and teriyaki. The restaurant’s specialty, of course, is fresh seafood. There are four types of fish available for dinner, in three types of preparation. The restaurant is open from 11 am to 12 midnight.

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Booking Your Holiday

2009-06-07T02:04:00.001-07:00

There are many ways to go about planning and booking your holiday. You can go into a travel agent and get a package deal, which included flights, car rental, hotel accommodation, and maybe even some of the activities that you would like to do when you get there.

Booking Online

A slightly more adventurous way and time consuming approach is to go online and find out what is available. Book your own flights, find your own hotel, arrange your own car rental, and do what you choose. This method of holiday planning requires a lot more effort from you. You have to be prepared to come with your own destination, then research on the various flight offers that are available and make sure you a get a good deal, you also have to look up hotels in the area and find a good hotel at a good price that is in the area and with the amenities you want.

Then car rental will also have to be arranged separately. Also you should not forget the need to book travel insurance and find out if there are any medical procedures that are required if you are going to a more exotic or tropical location. The good news is that many website now specialise in helping you to do all of this for yourself and will be a good source of information on every step of the process. These days you will probably be able to book all of the necessary elements of your holiday from the same website.

You will also have the chance of saving a considerable amount of money since you will be able to seek out special deals and offers and take advantage of discounts that are available. You will also have the freedom to completely personalise every aspect of your trip. If you’d like to fly into one airport and out of another, or stay part of the time at one hotel and part of the time at another, or any other personalisation will be completely possible since you are arranging every aspect of the trip to your own requirements.

Be Aware

There are a few things you should remember if you are planning your own holiday. First of all, you should make sure that the plans you have come up with actually are saving you money when compared to package deals, then you should also make sure you are dealing with trustworthy websites and that you have got proper travel and health insurance.

The other option is always just to go to the airport, hop on an available flight and see where you end up!

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Which Disney Holiday Is Right For You?

2009-06-07T02:03:00.000-07:00

You’ve decided that you’re going to go on a Disney holiday. But where should you go? Which Disney experience is best for you and your family? There are several options to choose from so its not surprising if you’re feeling confused about which Disney holiday is right for you. Before getting down to the details on timing, pricing and length of stay, here is an overview of your Disney options:

Disney Cruises
There are two cruise ships – Disney Magic and Disney Wonder – with Castaway Cay, a private island in the Bahamas, designed as an exclusive port of call for Disney ships. There are weekly cruises that depart from Port Carnaveral, Florida to the Bahamas, and the Eastern or Western Carribbean. There are other special cruises that go up the west coast of the United States and through the Panama Canal.

Disney Vacation Club
If the idea of returning to Disney locations over many years to come then you might want to consider joining the Disney Vacation Club. More than 90,000 families have already joined this real estate investment plan which allows them to use their annual allotment of Vacation Points for accommodation at Disneyland in California, Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland in Paris, France or on a Disney Cruises. There are other member benefits including a discount on park tickets.

Disneyland Resort Paris
This resort is located 19 miles east of Paris, France. As well as the regular rides and attractions that you can expect at any Disney park location (Main Street, Fantasyland, Discoveryland, Adventureland and Frontierland), Disneyland Resort Paris also has a special theme park called the ‘Walt Disney Studios’. It features 10 main attractions including the Rock-n-Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, Animagique, Armaggedon Special Effects and a Studio Tram Tour to take you behind the scenes.

Disneyland Park Resort, California
The first Disney theme park established in 1955 is the only one designed by Walt Disney. There are two main theme parks at Anaheim, California – Disneyland Park and Disney’s California Adventure Park. Disneyland Park is the main park with all the locations you would expect to find plus a whole heap of rides and attractions you may not have heard of. The Adventure Park has four themed lands – Hollywood Pictures Backlot, Golden State, Paradise Pier and ‘a bug’s land’. There is also the Downtown Disney District, a shopping, entertainment and dining precinct, located between the two theme parks. There are 3 Disney Hotels to choose from if you want a complete Disney experience.

Hong Kong Disneyland
At the Disneyland Park in Hong Kong spread over 310 acres are a range of rides and attractions from other Disney locations which have been adapted with the local culture in mind. The themed lands you will find include Main Street, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. There are 2 Disney hotels located next to the Park on Lantau Island, 20 minutes by ferry from the International Airport.

Tokyo Disney Resort
This resort was the first Disney resort to be opened outside the US. In Tokyo there are two theme parks side by side - Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea Park – together with 5 Disney Hotels. There are seven themed lands at the Park – Fantasyland, Critter Country, Toon Town, Tommorrowland, Adventureland, Westernland, World Bazaar. The DisneySea Park also has seven separate lands – Lost River Delta, Arabian Coast, Port Discovery, Mermaid Lagoon, Mysterious Island, American Waterfront, Mediterranean Harbor. The park complex also has a dedicated shopping, dining and entertainment area, Ikspiari, which also features a children’s play-and-care
center.

Walt Disney World
Located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Walt Disney World was the second of the Disney theme parks but it is the largest, stretching over 47 square miles. With four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney-MGM Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park), two water parks (Typhoon Park and Blizzard
Beach), six golf courses, a sports complex, an auto race track, Disney Downtown area, more than twenty resort hotels, and numerous shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings you will find more than enough to keep you entertained for many days.

Whichever experience you choose, where Disney is involved it’s sure to be a fun and exciting time. Make sure you read up on your choice so that you can get the most out of your Disney holiday.

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Holiday Spending Tips - Ten Ways To Keep From Having A Holiday Spending Hangover

2009-06-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

Ah the holidays… a time for parties, over eating, and over spending. Americans routinely overspend during the holidays, often resulting in increasing credit card debt to go along with that increasing waistline from too much pumpkin pie.

The holidays are stressful enough. Don’t add to that stress by overspending your holiday budget. Here are ten tips to help you save time, money and stress this shopping season:

1. Make a list. Decide how much you can afford to spend this year and write it down. Decide who you want to buy for, and how much you want to spend on each person. Take this list with you when you go shopping to ensure that you don’t buy on impulse or exceed your spending limit. Also, don’t forget to include wrapping paper, decorations and shipping costs. These can add up fast!

2. Pay cash for your holiday gifts. It’s much harder to spend cash than credit, so this tip alone could save you hundreds of dollars this holiday season. Also, avoid credit card offers or store charge card offers that offer you a discount if you sign up. These cards usually have high interest rates, and could end up costing much more in the long run than the discount you receive when you sign up for the card.

3. Do your shopping online this year. Buying online could result in discounts not available in stores. Just remember to include the shipping cost when buying online. Even if you don’t actually buy online, the time you can save by doing comparison shopping before you go to the malls could be invaluable.

4. Have a Secret Santa gift exchange, where you put names in a hat and each person draws one name to purchase for. If you have a large family, this could mean tremendous savings! You should set a dollar limit so each person knows how much to spend. That way no one overspends and relatives with smaller budgets won’t feel bad about not spending a fortune on a gift.

5. Another alternative for those with large families is to do a group gift. Have several relatives go in on one big gift instead of each person buying a separate gift. You will probably all save money and you can buy the recipient one big, cool gift that they really want.

6. Start early! Shopping early allows you to comparison shop and to catch pre-holiday sales, which could mean huge savings. This also curbs impulse shopping, which can be very expensive. Another benefit to shopping early is lower shipping costs if you need to mail a gift. Waiting til the last minute can be expensive because you’re more likely to pay full price for the gift, and you may have to pay extra to ship it if you want to guarantee it arrives in time.

7. Make your holiday gifts. If you have creative talents, such as cooking, crafts, etc., making your own gifts can be very special. If you’re not very creative, consider giving your time. Offers to baby-sit or to do something special for someone can be very personal and appreciated gifts. How many parents do you know who wouldn’t love to have free babysitting?

8. Purchase wrapping paper, holiday cards and other decorations right after the holidays. Seasonal items are usually offered at deep discounts after the holiday, and they never go out of style. Stock up on clearance-priced items for next year, this year!

9. If you’ll be traveling this holiday season, book your travel plans early. Airline flights, train tickets and bus tickets usually go up significantly during the holidays, so booking your travel plans early can save you money and stress.

10. Start a Christmas fund in January for next year’s shopping. Many credit unions and banks offer special accounts just for this purpose. A CD is another great way to save for next year’s holiday expenses. It never hurts to sock away a little money every month between now and the next holiday season. You’ll earn a little interest and you’ll have cash to spend on your holiday gifts and other expenses when the holidays roll around.

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Some Of The Many Holidays In Spain

2009-02-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

A great time to visit Spain is during the holidays when a visitor can truly experience the Spanish culture. There are many celebrations and holidays in Spain during every season. Since most of Spain is Roman Catholic, most of the public holidays are religious. The many festivals and celebrations associated with these holidays, in both large cities and smaller cities, are great activities to experience during your stay.

Some of the holidays celebrated during the spring and summer include Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Corpus Christi and St. John’s Day. Good Friday is the Friday before Easter Sunday and is a very important holiday in Spain.

Many cities have parades or large festivals and many areas hold these processions throughout the entire week. Some events also include re-enactments of the crucifixion. In addition, many of these festivals extend to the Easter Sunday holiday. It is another very important holiday throughout Spain and is meant to honor the Resurrection of Jesus. The holiday of Corpus Christi, meaning the Body of Christ, is celebrated in late sprint or early summer. This holiday is very important to the Catholic religion.

The feast of Corpus Christi celebrates the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist and is honored on the first Sunday after Trinity Sunday. It is usually in May or June, but varies each year. St. John’s holiday is on June 24, but it is on June 23 that St. John’s Day is celebrated in June 24 but the celebrations tend to begin the evening before.

During the evening of June 23, bonfires are built and effigies are burned. Many individuals jump over ht bonfires, as it is thought that jumping over the fire three times will cleanse them of sin. However, jumping over the bonfire is only one aspect of the celebrations, as different areas celebrate this holiday in a variety of ways.

Holidays during the autumn and winter seasons include Columbus Day, All Saints Day, Constitution Day and Christmas. Columbus Day is also the National Holiday of Spain and is celebrated on October 12. It is to honor Christopher Columbus’ arrival to America. Many festivals are held in his honor. The Catholic holiday of All Saints Day is celebrated on November 1 in honor of all saints and martyrs.

This holiday began in the fourth century as a day to remember the martyrs. Today, the play Don Juan Tenorio is often performed during this holiday and people usually make offerings and may visit graves of those who have passed. Constitution Day is a very important holiday celebrated on December 6. It celebrates Spain’s transition to democracy after its constitution was approved in 1978. January 6 marks the end of the Christmas season in Spain.

This holiday, known as the Three Kings Day or El Dia de los Reyes, celebrates the wise men’s visit to Bethlehem. According to Spanish tradition, the three kings represent Arabia, Africa and Europe bringing gifts to baby Jesus. There are often large processions or festivals celebrating this day.

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Driving in Mexico

2009-02-16T18:54:00.000-08:00

Driving to Mexico can be a fun trip to take with some friends or family. But before you head out of the country there are some things that you should make sure are in place first. Crossing from one place to another can involve a lot of legal aspects. If you fail to have them all in place you risk not being allowed into Mexico. Also, if you neglect certain requirements you could find yourself in trouble or facing a fine. Get all of the necessary information before you plan your trip so that you have no delays holding you back.

Look up the traffic rules and laws in Mexico before you go. Driving in Mexico is not like driving in the United States. If you don’t know what to expect you may find it to be an overwhelming experience. Many people opt not to drive in Mexico because they find it intimidating. It doesn’t have to be. You just need to know what to expect. Browse traffic signs and their meanings online and make any notes if you feel it is beneficial. If you know how the rules work you will have little to worry about.

You will need to take out some form of Mexican auto insurance. Most American insurance policies are not recognized in Mexico in the event of an accident. You must have insurance provided by a Mexican company. Many people do not realize this and then when an accident happens they are left with a huge bill to pay. Look up reputable Mexican insurance agents that deal with American visitors often. They will be able to serve you quickly and get you on your way so that you can focus on enjoying your time in Mexico.

Make sure to bring all of your legal identification information to Mexico with you. You will need a valid driver’s license from your own state and country to drive there as well as proof that you are who you claim to be. In many cases you will be required to apply for temporary importation of your vehicle. This is something that has to be done as you are crossing into Mexico. You will have to have all of the legal documents for your vehicle with you for this. There will be a fee associated with this so be prepared to pay it. The fee is based on the age of your vehicle. Newer cars are subject to a higher rate.

Be careful when you drive in Mexico. Livestock is known to wander on to the road at times and other drivers can occasionally be aggressive. It’s best not to drive at night if at all possible. It is not always safe, especially for those from other countries. Visitors have been known to be robbed while driving in their car at night or in unsafe locations. Stay safe at all times and stay alert regarding what is going on around you. Driving in Mexico requires planning, patience and making sure that everything is legal.

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Driving in Canada

2009-02-16T18:52:00.000-08:00

Driving in Canada has changed in recent years. Changes to the way border crossing is done has been recently undertaken in order to increase and enhance security. You need to know about driving in Canada before you set off. Ignorance could get you sent right back home if you fail to gather all necessary information first. If you are not familiar with the laws and border crossing regulations, there are many sites that supply this information for free. Be sure to look them up.

You must bring your photo identification with you to Canada as well as your driver’s license and your passport. Recent changes require everyone to bring a passport when crossing the border from either side. This allows officials to verify that you are who you claim to be and that you are not a breach to security. Make sure that your driver’s license and all other I.D. is up to date. Any expired information will need to be renewed before you can enter Canada. Check that it will not be expiring while you are there either.

Everyone that is travelling with you inside the car will need to provide the same information. Border control has to verify every person that wishes to cross the border, not just the driver. Even children will be required to show a passport so get this type of information gathered before your planned trip. It can take time to get a passport if you do not have one so factor the timing for that in as well if necessary.

The rules regarding what you can and cannot bring into Canada tend to change so make sure you are up to date on the latest. This information will be listed online so check it out and make notes of anything important. It would be unfortunate to pack things you can’t take and then have to dispose of them at the border.

You will always be asked for the legal information for your vehicle. Have everything on hand to show border patrol. They are always on alert, watching for stolen vehicles which many criminals attempt to bring over the border to flee authorities. Have your information up to date so that you can get through that much faster. When you are organized and ready to show information, the process will go much faster and smoother.

If you buy anything while you are in Canada make sure that you keep all of the receipts. The border guards may ask to see them when you pass through on your way home. It’s just another way of making paperwork help you get through the line that much quicker. You can also look up border wait times online to get an idea which crossing will be the quickest. Some are longer than others so consider that.

Keep in mind when driving in Canada that some of the traffic rules may vary. The speed limit is posted in kilometres rather than in miles so remember that too or you may find yourself with some speeding tickets. Driving in Canada can be beautiful and exciting if you take care to arrange it accordingly.

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Caribbean Holidays

2009-02-11T19:33:00.001-08:00

Have you ever heard of Peppercorn Day? A holiday in Bermuda, Peppercorn Day may be the oddest holiday in the Caribbean. Its history dates to 1797 when a group of Freemasons began renting the Old State House in St. George, for the sum of one peppercorn. In 1816, the holiday tradition began. Every year on the Wednesday closest to April 23, amidst pomp and circumstance, a horse-drawn carriage brings the governor to collect the peppercorn.

While Peppercorn Day is exclusive to Bermuda, many Caribbean islands share similar holidays. Perhaps the largest number of holidays in the Caribbean are of religious origin. Days venerating patron saints can be found throughout the islands, but nowhere to the extent of Puerto Rico. Even Puerto Rico's cities have their own patron saints with attendant holidays. However, the most important is St. John's Day, celebrating the island's patron saint and namesake of its capital city, San Juan. Beach parties end with people walking backward into the ocean and falling into the water to honor the tradition of baptism by St. John.

Christmas in the Caribbean may be more enthusiastic than anywhere else in the world. The twelve days of Christmas are still celebrated on many islands, culminating in Epiphany on January 6. On Guadeloupe, Epiphany marks the beginning of Carnival season, which continues until Lent. The carnival reaches its peak on Shrove Tuesday, when businesses close for five days so all can participate in the parades.

Islands also celebrate their heritage with national holidays, though the specifics differ from place to place. In Dominica, late October ushers in Creole Week. Part of Creole Week is Heritage Day, held in a different village every year and paying homage to that village's unique aspects and important citizens. Island-wide, the biggest celebration of the week is Creole Day. Everyone dresses up in traditional Creole fashion and enjoys Creole style parades, music, and food.

Similarly, Jamaica's Maroon Day (January 6) pays tribute to the Maroons, freed slaves who fled to the South coast of Jamaica to start their lives anew. Their ancestors still live there and host the biggest celebration of the holiday, the Accompong Maroon Festival. Drawing visitors from all over the globe, this huge affair had an attendance of 16,000 people in 2005. The feast includes traditional dancing, singing, and ceremonies.

Then there's Indian Arrival Day (May 30) in Trinidad and Tobago. Although it was only made official in the 1990s, the island's sizable Indian population has celebrated the holiday for many years. It commemorates the arrival of indentured servants from India.

Many Caribbean countries celebrate their independence from conquering nations, such as Spain, the Netherlands, or France. Holidays honoring national heroes who fought for independence are common, like Errol Barrow Day in Barbados. But the islands also retain holidays from the conquerors, like Bastille Day, Queen's Day, and the Prince of Wales' Birthday. Emancipation and slavery abolition holidays are also national holidays on many islands.

Even the weather has a place on the holiday calendar. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, the fourth Monday in July is Hurricane Supplication Day. Marking the beginning of their hurricane season, it's a low-key day for people to go to church to pray that hurricanes pass them by, or at least spare lives and buildings. If all goes well, Hurricane Thanksgiving Day follows on the third Monday of October.

Holiday celebrations contribute greatly to the vibrant culture in the Caribbean. If you're planning a trip there, consider going when you can take part in one. There's no better way to truly experience island culture.

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Blackpool Holidays

2009-02-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

Extending from the North Pier towards Morecambe Bay, Blackpool's North Shore has a character all its own. Here you'll find a quieter, gentler pace of life and a pleasant counterpoint to the bustle of the town centre, which is still just a short tram ride away.

Offering breathtaking views of the Bay and the Lake District beyond, North Shore is a favourite haunt of walkers and families who can enjoy the North Shore Cliffs, the promenade and a landscape that has inspired poets for centuries.

But the walks, the wildlife and the spectacular scenery are just one aspect of Blackpool's North Shore. Here, you can also take in a variety of shows and concerts, the North Pier with its Merrie England Comedy Bar, and an almost bewildering choice of restaurants, shops and cafes.

And finally, as its southern border merges into Central Blackpool, North Shore offers one more surprise. Close to the town centre, the Funny Girls cabaret club and a variety of clubs and bars have helped to make the area around Queen Street the focus for a thriving gay community.

Popular with 'straight' visitors and especially hen parties, this lends the area a great sense of liveliness, entertainment and fun.

Blackpool Tower, the Golden Mile, the Tower Circus, the Big Wheel... if you're picturing the town, you're probably picturing Central Blackpool. It's a hive of tourist activity and you'll struggle to find a postcard of the town that doesn't show something of this vibrant area.

If you love activity, choice and excitement, then you'll almost certainly be looking for a hotel, a guesthouse or self catering accommodation in Central Blackpool. It is the place for nightlife, varied entertainments and many of the town's most famous attractions.

Here, on your doorstep, are the Sea Life Centre, Louis Tussauds, the Tower Ballroom, the Winter Gardens Opera House & Theatre, Jungle Jim's, amusement arcades - the list goes on. The best advice is probably to get out there and see it all for yourself.

Great for family entertainment both day and night, Central Blackpool boasts a world famous beach, fairground rides on the Central Pier, family bars, art galleries and theatres, musicals and a host of cafes, restaurants and bars. It's ideal for adults too, with a fantastic choice of pubs and clubs that will keep you occupied well into the night.

In short, if you want to play hard, keep busy and never run short of entertainment, Central Blackpool is the place for you!

Blackpool's South Shore is all about family fun and entertainment. Who could come here for a holiday without visiting the famous Pleasure Beach? A wonderland of rides, stalls and arcades, it's the place that children talk about long after their holiday is over, and when you see rides like the Pepsi Max Big One or the Revolution, you'll find it impossible to forget, too.

With thirteen roller coasters and a whole section designed exclusively for smaller children to enjoy, the Pleasure Beach promises real family fun. But it's not all about white knuckle rides; it also hosts the Mystique Cabaret Group, bars, cafes and 'Eclipse' - a show that provides an enchanting mix of fantasy, theatre and airborne acrobatics.

Beyond the Pleasure Beach, there is the South Pier with its many rides, a free sculpture trail along the Prom and the Solaris environmental centre with its giant wind turbines and interactive exhibits. And whatever the weather, there is always the Sandcastle Waterworld - a giant water park with facilities for children of all ages - from quiet shallows for toddlers to hair-raising water slides for the very, very brave...

Stay in a Blackpool guesthouse or hotel on South Shore, and you have all this and more within easy walking distance.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=99092&ca=Travel

Holidays To Bulgaria

2009-02-11T19:02:00.000-08:00

A lot more people these days are choosing Bulgaria for their summer holiday. As more and more people are discovering Bulgaria as holiday destination the tour operators and flight companies are starting to expand their service into this country. There is still an awful lot for Bulgaria to do before they get accession into the EU ( which is currently set for 2007 ).

Bulgaria has a lovely coastline and there are 2 main holiday destinations one in the north called Golden Sands and one in the south called Sunny Beach. These 2 destinations are where the main hotels accommodations are located.Large tour operators are based in these resorts the likes of First Choice. When having a holiday in Bulgaria there is two options to choose from. The first being the normal package holiday from travel agents which you will be staying in the normal hotel at half board or all inclusive. The second option would be a private villa or apartment booked directly with the villa or apartment owner. After that you will have to book your own flights to the country.

The second option of the private villa or apartment in Bulgaria is a very cost effective option. Lets have a look at the process.

There is a few websites offering villa or apartment Holidays to Bulgaria. Your first point of contact would be the internet to search for the options available to you. Now because the private rental market in Bulgaria is in its infancy the prices of villas or apartments are very reasonable. This would cost you a lot less than booking a private rental in the likes of Spain. Once you have chosen the property you are wanting to book you would contact the owner directly to either check availability or to book the property.

Flights is the harder bit there is a few companies that have just come on the market offering cheap flights to Bulgaria the likes of wizzair but with this company it is not a directly flight you usually have to stop off in Budapest. The main company is First Choice which offer the best deals I have seen on the internet to date. As Bulgaria gets more and more popular with British tourists then more of the cheap flight companies will introduce regular flights to the country making it an easier option for people. Generally a private rental Holiday done through the internet yourself should save you roughly about £100 - £150 per person.

Lets have a look at the destinations for Bulgaria. Golden Sands is the smallest of the 2 big resorts it is found about 20km outside Varna and is a beach resort to rival any of the european resorts and with the prices of things in Bulgaria it is likely that you would not spend as much on a holiday to Bulgaria as you would to other European resorts.

Sunny Beach is the southern resort and is 4 times as big as Golden Sands. Again Golden sands is a beach resort like any european resorts with a multitude of hotels apartments and villas for rent. The restaurants are delicious and the friendliness of the locals always make you feel at home.

There are other not so well known smaller resorts the likes of Albena, Kranevo, Sozopol, Sinemoretz, Balchik that are worth visiting and all within easy reach of either a City the likes of Varna or Bourgas or one of the bigger resorts.

What is becoming more popular these days is the rural holidays to Bulgaria where people just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of normal life and want a more relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Staing in a rural area and experiencing the real Bulgarian way of life is a must. The locals are so friendly and are only too happy to invite yo to experience their way of life. Village life in Bulgaria is recommended if you are looking for relaxation or de-stressing as nothing is more calming than life in a real Bulgarian Village.

In Summary as Bulgaria gets more popular with british tourists there is an abundance of private rental property for holidaymakers to choose from. Bulgaria is a lovely country which is waiting to be explored. It is an unspoilt country with plenty to offer holidaymakers that are looking either for a busy nightlife or the peace and quiet rural life of the countryside. So why not have a look at what is on offer in Bulgaria and book your Holiday to Bulgaria now.

Published At: www.Isnare.com
Permanent Link: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=23697&ca=Travel

The Perfect Family Vacation - Pigeon Forge, TN

2008-12-29T18:12:00.001-08:00

Have you been searching for the perfect place to spend a family vacation where everyone in the family will have a great time? It is often a challenge to find a place that entertains the entire family from ages 3 to 103. Fortunately for you there is one such place that is centrally located to most of the eastern United States. Pigeon Forge, TN is nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in East Tennessee and within a day’s drive of most of the East Coast and Midwest.

Pigeon Forge, TN is an incredibly unique town filled with Appalachian history and modern entertainment. Children will have a blast at the various attractions that offer go-carts, miniature golf, laser tag, arcades, and more. The adults will love the variety of theaters showcasing country music, bluegrass, gospel, impersonations, comedy, etc as well as the incredible value in dinner shows where the entire family can eat and be entertained for at least two full hours!

Some of the best entertainment for the entire family can be found for free. There are numerous hiking trails, rivers for fishing, nature loops to drive and see all sorts of wildlife, scenic views for amazing pictures, and more. Be sure to stop by the official welcome centers to get maps and information from the locals who know the best places to visit and times to go.

If shopping is your thing, then you will absolutely love what Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has to offer. The area has become known as the outlet capital of the United States and is home to numerous chain stores that you will be familiar with as well as unique shops that cannot be found anywhere else. Whatever your shopping pleasure is, you’re bound to find great bargains on your trip to Pigeon Forge, TN.

When it comes to food, Pigeon Forge has a wide variety of options that will appeal to the entire family. You will find familiar restaurant chains if you’re not willing to take chances on something new, but if you’re looking for something unique and delicious then the choices are great! There are plenty “one-of-a-kind” restaurants in the area that serve some amazing food guaranteed to leave you full and drooling for more once you return home. The best tip is to ask the people that work at the attractions and shops you visit during your first day there. This will give you a great assortment of restaurants to try during your vacation.

Finally, you’re going to need a place to sleep! Pigeon Forge, TN has plenty of options from campgrounds all the way up to massive cabins that can accommodate an entire family reunion! Cabins have become an extremely popular lodging choice among visitors as the cabins offer the quiet, rustic feel of staying in the Smoky Mountains along with the conveniences of home, which include: kitchens, laundry rooms, fireplaces, and even game rooms with pool tables, pinball, arcades, and more.

Pigeon Forge, TN is the perfect destination for your next family vacation. There simply are no better places to bring the children as well as the great-grandparents where everyone is guaranteed to have a great time. There are events throughout the entire year so do not worry about which season is the best. Pigeon Forge, TN offers you and your family an amazing experience all year long.

Published At : www.articlecity.com

St Lucia Vacation

2008-12-29T18:11:00.001-08:00

St Lucia is one of the Windward Islands in the middle of the Eastern Caribbean, south of Martinique and northwest of Barbados. The capital is Castries in the north west of St Lucia, which is 27 miles long and 14 miles wide with a central mountain range the whole length of the island with peaks as high as 3000feet plus.

It is the combination of mountains, forests, low lying land, small coastal fishing villages, and beaches that makes a lot of people choose a St Lucia Vacation. The mountains are forested and the lush lower slopes have splashes of colour thanks to the jasmine, scarlet chenille, and wild orchids.

Probably the most famous landmarks in St Lucia are the two towering volcano cones on the south west coast called the Twin Pitons which are the most incredible sight especially at dusk.

St Lucia’s climate is obviously tropical with temperatures varying between 70 degrees to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with rain from June to November and fairly dry between December in May.

St Lucia has a lot of accommodation choices to suit most pockets and tastes. There is everything from all-inclusive resorts, and large deluxe hotels to luxury villas. You will also be able to find lovely small hotels, traditional inns, and apartments and guesthouses. You will find accommodation on the beach or inland, in the north which is completely different in characteristics to the south.

A St Lucia Vacation is for pleasure seeking people, for people who like unspoiled undiscovered places. It is for people who want to celebrate their wedding on a Caribbean Island and for honeymooners who are looking for a tropical island paradise, because St Lucia is all of these things.

St Lucia is a great place for a family vacation which can include any number of land and water sports, including but not restricted to golf, tennis, cricket, table tennis, biking, horse riding, and deep sea fishing, windsurfing, sailing, para sailing, and waterskiing. Water sports are definitely a large part of any St Lucia Vacation, especially when you think about the white sand beaches, and beautiful inviting turquoise blue sea.

In addition to all of that there are places to visit like the beautiful Marigot Bay, Maria Islands Nature reserve, Whale and turtle watching, to name a few.

Dining out in St Lucia is a treat because St Lucians enjoy their food, so this logically means there are a large number of restaurants on the island. The cuisine is best described as a combination of International and Creole, where fresh local produce plays a huge part.

Now you can sea what a great place St Lucia is for a vacation, the only question left to answer is how to get there. You can reach St Lucia by air or by sea. You can arrive at airports in the north or the south with many popular airlines, and you can travel on to your final destination by helicopter or ferry. You can fly into a neighbouring island like Martinique and then catch a ferry to St Lucia. You may also arrive on a cruise ship or a yacht.

It really doesn’t matter which way you choose to arrive in St Lucia, because you will find a Caribbean Island paradise unlike any other and you won’t want to leave

Published At : www.articlecity.com

A Tobago Vacation Guide

2008-12-29T18:10:00.000-08:00

Tobago is often known only as the little sister of Trinidad, as in Trinidad and Tobago, and this doesn’t in any way do it justice. A Tobago vacation is a vacation on a unique Caribbean Island, still relatively unspoilt by mass tourism.

It lies some 20 miles to the north east of Venezuela and around 150 miles south of Barbados.

What this means is an island that has white sand beaches, perfect little bays, turquoise blue clear and unpolluted seas. Tobago has colourful undamaged coral reefs teeming with fish, and alongside that waving palm trees by by luxuriant tropical rainforest.

Its size at around forty one kilometres long and eleven kilometres wide means it isn’t too big to get lost, nor too small to be bored. The sun shines year round with an average temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, falling to seventy three degrees at night, with the rainy season from June until November. Persistent rain happens only rarely, what it normally means is brief bursts of heavy rain followed by sunshine. The dry season is December to April which unsurprisingly is also high season and correspondingly higher prices.

You might need some good reasons to persuade you to take a Tobago vacation, and one very good reason especially if your vacation has to be taken during the summer months is the fact that Tobago is south of the hurricane belt.

Another outstanding feature of Tobago, and this isn’t something you will see often if at all on your Caribbean Island Travels, and that is empty beaches and no skyscraper tower block style hotels in sight.

There are many things to do on your Tobago Vacation, including fabulous snorkelling and scuba diving under the water, with lovely coral reefs and multicoloured fish, but no dangerous sharks, and great fishing in the seas around Tobago.

If Golf is your fancy there is championship golf and you don’t have to worry about there being any poisonous snakes on the course, but you may well get a glimpse of some of the large number of bird species.

To see some of the abundance of wildlife you can visit the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere, containing such amazing wildlife that it has been called the Galapagos of the West Indies.

The people and the food you will meet and find on a Tobago vacation will be a major part of your enjoyment. The local people are very friendly and have a certain unique dignity to them that isn’t found anywhere else in the Caribbean. In terms of the food, there is a lot to choose from at extremely reasonable prices. You need to look out for local cuisine such as Curried Crab and Dumpling, perhaps Callaloo a coconut and spinach soup, or roti a thick chickpea and potato curry with either beef chicken or lobster wrapped in a kind of flour tortilla.

Any tropical island, any Caribbean island must have great beaches, and on your Tobago Vacation you are going to find some beaches you will love. Amongst Tobago’s best beaches are Englishmen’s Bay right on the edge of the rainforest, no hotels, no crowds. Mount Irvine beach, small and pretty with great snorkelling. Castara is another unspoilt beach, and then there is Pigeon Point, the classical tropical island beach with white sand, turquoise water, a wooden jetty, and thatched roof huts. The other quiet often deserted beaches worth a visit are Canoe Bay, Charlotteville and Man O War Bay.

The Tobago Hotels such as at Grafton Resort, Courland Bay, and Turtle Beach all have facilities including Bars and Cafes, and are much larger and very popular.

There is plenty to do when you take a Tobago vacation, lots to see as Tobago is rich in history, and lots to do. Go whilst it remains relatively unspoilt.

Published At : www.articlecity.com

Why Not Take A Cuban Vacation

2008-12-29T18:09:00.000-08:00

A Cuban Vacation is something more and more people take with every passing year. Cuba and its capital Havana have become one of the top tourist destinations in the Caribbean.

What is there to do on a Cuban Vacation apart from sit on a beach, and drink rum and relax?

The fact is that holidays in Cuba are very much what you make of them, because apart from the beach and the rum, a Cuba vacation can be also cultural, exhausting, even breathtaking, but one thing is sure your visit to Cuba will be absolutely unforgettable.

To start with a Cuba vacation based on beaches, because Cuba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean. When you realize there is an almost six thousand kilometer coastline, with 289 natural beaches you will understand why there are several that are an outstanding place for a Cuba Family Holiday Package and Vacation Deal. At the north end of Cuba you find powder sand and a turquoise sea with waves from the Atlantic Ocean. In the south there is the warm Caribbean Sea with virtually untouched beaches. The more popular Cuba becomes as a tourist destination the more difficult it is to find quiet tourist free beaches.

The following are well worth trying on your Cuban Vacation

Cayo Santa Maria on the north east coast is a small island surrounded by coral reefs and seven miles of very quiet and untouched beaches.

Cayo Levisa is accessed by boat from a place about two hours west of Havana, and is covered by jungle surrounded by white sand beaches, protected by coral reefs and very picturesque.

Playa Ancon is to the south nine miles from Trinidad, has six miles of soft sand, is very sheltered and perfect for families. This is more popular but still uncrowded.

Cayo Largo is on the east side of the island and has some of the best diving reefs and white sand beaches. It takes a flight or a six hour boat trip to get to, so not touristy at all.

Playa Santa Lucia is a thirteen mile beach, with calm water due to the reef, and turquoise sea. Probably the most popular of the beaches mentioned but never feels crowded due to its size.

All of these beaches feature hotels eminently suitable for a Cuban vacation and certainly a Cuba Vacation Package can be arranged.

For those tourists who are looking for more culture, then culture vultures will love Havana. There are museums, and then for the music lovers there are salsa clubs and live jazz.

On the other hand you can take to the open road and discover open roads, classic cars, and breathtaking landscapes. As an example might be the breathtaking landscapes and charming caves at Vinales Valley.

For goodness sake hire a car, the roads are deserted, or perhaps do some horse riding. On the other hand there are significant numbers of wrecked ships to scuba dive and explore.

Cuba is exciting, and an amazing place considering it is still Communist, but nevertheless a Cuban Vacation will open your eyes to a perfect tourist destination, and you should be able to enjoy a great Cuban Vacation Deal.

Published At : www.articlecity.com

Volunteer Abroad in Cambodia, China or Vietnam Now!

2008-11-05T17:56:00.002-08:00

Volunteer Travel is getting more and more popular. Travellers are looking for an experience these days rather than for a trip. People are getting tired of the sightseeing holidays where they just go an see the sights but do not get to know the country and its people in depth.

This is where volunteer travel comes in. It is a great way to really get to know the country and the people. Not only is this for many people a fulfilment of a dream to volunteer abroad and help people who need it, also it offers you a great experience of a new country and culture in a much more meaningful way.

Who does this volunteer travel ? Well, everyone ! Since these volunteering holidays can be from one week up to several months, this volunteer program is available to everyone and as a result people from all backgrounds are joining these volunteering opportunities. Many people on a gap year or sabbatical do this kind of travel. But also many professional people from all industries join these programs.

What do you do during your volunteering programs ? Well the main thing you will be doing is teaching English. To teach English as a volunteer is a lot of fun ! You usually do not need previous experience. The main thing is to have the right attitude to want to help the children whilst teaching English. You can also do help in the kitchen, take care or play with the children. Volunteers usually volunteer during weekdays and have the weekend off to do some sightseeing.

Where to go on your volunteer trip ? Well you can go around the world really. The most popular areas are Africa, Asia and South America. In Asia for example the countries that are getting very popular are Cambodia, China and Vietnam.

Cambodia is a very interesting country. After all the problems in the past, this country is rising up and developing. It is still a very poor country and needs a lot of volunteers. China is enjoying an economic boom but there are many people that get left behind. Those people very much need the help and support of volunteers from abroad.

Vietnam is becoming the jewel of Asia. A lot of tourist go to Vietnam but the country is very difficult to get to know. Volunteer travel will give you the opportunity to really experience and understand this wonderful country.

Volunteering Abroad Programs are organised by volunteer agencies. There are many volunteer agencies so you need to find the right one for you. There seems to be a trend between the costly and affordable agencies. And overall when joining both types of agencies people can have a good experience. Usually the more expensive agencies have very nice offices, brochures and open days which off course reflects in the price they are offering.

On volunteer agency that is getting fantastic reviews on a consistent basis is WLS International. WLS is a British medium sized agency mainly focusing on Asia. Their volunteer programs in Cambodia, China and Vietnam have been recommended as the best volunteering programs in that area of the world.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Vietnam Travel: A glimpse of Quy Nhon

2008-11-05T17:56:00.001-08:00

Away from the noise and bustle of Highway One, away from the crush of development, Quy Nhon offers the peace and tranquility of bygone times. As I walk down a side street I hear a song emanate from a radio and its lyrics engrave the essence of Quy Nhon in my memory:"...Today the streets are encased in sunlight, I am alone on an empty street. Far away, waves sing softly the song of my longing for you...".

I've been drawn to Quy Nhon for a long time. In my imagination, this is the place of the ruined Do ban citadel from which the rulers of Chiem Thanh city ruled unchallenged for so many years. In my mind I can hear horses neighing and solider shouting as they fight the deadly battles between Cham soldiers and those of the Vietnamese dynasties that imposed their might from the north. Later, once the area came under Vietnamese control, it gave birth to powerful military heroes (Nguyen Nhac, Nguyen Hue and Nguyen Lu all hailed from this region).

There were artists too. Van Cao, a famous poet, painter and composer, came from here and wrote about the Cham towers that "take cover under the blue sky". His poetry inspired me to visit some of the towers, which draw thousands of tourists every year.

The twin granite towers in Thap Doi, just outside Quy Nhon, are as red as lipstick. They're relatively small and are humbled by the powerful sunlight that beats down on them, but they are unique from other towers in one way: their creators were heavily influenced by Hindu architecture and each tower is carved with Garudas, mythical birds still revered in Indonesia. North of the towers are two bridges where lovers have traditionally opened their hearts to each other with poems like this:

Two towers stand together,
two bridges stand together,
So why can't I get close to you?

Like the Egyptian pyramids, no one knows how the Cham were able to build these towers. Each brick was compacted tightly next to its neighbor before another was added above, yet none were tied with mortar. Without this glue, how did these monuments withstand the test of time and survive hundreds of years of rain and heat? The secret of their resilience increases their appeal.

Out of the city and along Highway One, four more beautiful towers come into view. These are the Banh It towers, named after a type of rice cake whose shape they resemble. The main tower is to the East because the Cham believed that an island in South China Sea (known in Vietnam as the Eastern Sea) was home to their gods. From the top of a nearby hill you can see each tower clearly. They are like four sunbeams falling from the sky, each one mighty in its lonely solitude.

Not far away are the Duong Long towers, a group of three exquisite buildings. They stand close to each other, with the tallest reaching 36 meters (120 feet) into the sky and the others an impressive 29 meters (95 feet). Some say they are the most beautiful of all remaining Cham towers, made so by the plethora of engravings that depicts gods, dancing girls, elephants, dragons and nagas (mythical snakes).

Quy Nhon is the capital of Binh Dinh province; know for its martial arts prowess. But from here too have come poets. One of its best known was Han Mac Tu, who died of leprosy in the early 20th century. I visited Quy Hoa hospital where he ended his days in peaceful repose, creating his life's last masterpieces. One night, as he gazed at the shimmering moon, he wrote this tribute to love:

Far away, a girl sits by the Nhan River washing silk dresses.
Water becomes the moon and the moon becomes water.
The silk is dampened by the watery moon.
The girl is wrapped in moonlight,
Only her cheekbones shine red.
I want to hold the moon in my arms,
I dream of the moon and pick at the moonlight.

When Han Mac Tu died, his remains stayed in Quy Nhon and his grave became a place of pilgrimage for many people. I visited it at nightfall, as the fading sunlight fell behind a mountain and splashed its dying golden rays over the sea around Quy Nhon. It was to the sound of waves crashing on these beaches that Tu was lulled into his unbreakable sleep. Behind his grave a painter, Dzu Kha, engraves Tu's poems on wooden palates for visiting tourists.

I had only a glimpse of Quy Nhon but I won't forget its pull; the ancient moss-covered towers, the gentle sounds of Tu's resting place in Gheng Rang, and the quiet rhythm of the sea.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

An excursion by road to Dalat

2008-11-05T17:53:00.000-08:00

We were driving around probably not too sure where to go. We must have been heading to Saigon when I saw this sign post on the right saying Dalat. I had heard the name. It was an old French hill station far to the north of Saigon.

It had the good reputation of an agreable place to go. It brought to mind tales of one of the old British hill stations of the RAJ. Simla? Anyway my curiosity was roused and I asked PB if she had been there and she said no. I turned right and off we went.

We were able to come to these decisions without any discussion which was good. On the other hand we didn't know how far it was. It certainly wasn't near. We didn't know what the road was like. I am not giving distances. I would have to check them on a map. I had no map then. Anyway even with a map I would not have been much better off.

A detailed military map was the last thing one wanted to be caught with and anything else was worse than useless. The conditions on some of the roads were appalling and it was not unknown to travel mile after mile on second gear. Traffic jams in Saigon were monstrous and in the country side a blown bridge could cause a bottle neck with traffic three lanes deep on either side and no way for any vehicle to get through to clear the bridge. Or for that matter just a blown bridge and not a soul about.

To compare a journey then with whatever distance is marked on a map today has no bearing on the reality of the situation as it was then .

What perhaps was surprising was the fact that the Vietnamese continued to travel the roads. Their driving was appalling. Driving licenses could be bought. If you were a foreigner you were always wrong. You could, had to, buy your way out of any accident. I read that coach drivers drove at high speed in the hope that if they set a mine off their speed would carry the driver over safely and only blow the rear end off the bus.

The accidents were horrific. The Viet Cong set up road blocks and took away whoever they considered an enemy. I remember reading that a French consul in the highlands had his car break down, got a lift on a passing bus, was taken by the Viet Cong at a road block and reportedly died in captivity. The French usually considered themselves above this war and therefore immune. It is possible that having known war for twenty five years when I arrived in 1965 the Vietnamese had developed a certain fatality to it
I switched the number plates of my car and then we continued through an area of rubber plantations. By the time we reached rolling grass covered hills it had begun to enter my somewhat sluggish mind that there was no traffic on the road. I also knew by now what no traffic meant. I hid my identity papers and threw away my X numbered plates. The few villages that there were seemed lacking in activity. Once we passed a lonely catholic priest on a motor scooter. The road climbed steadily and we talked a little. PB was from Hanoi. They had also had a house in the country and been relatively well off. Her father, a nationalist, had been taken away by the Viet Minh one night and never seen again. The family moved south after Vietnam was divided. There was an uncle, a colonel, who had been a province chief. I think all province chiefs were military, possibly with one exception to try to prove the country was not exactly a military dictatorship or something. He had been on the wrong side in one of the numerous coup d'états. There was another tragedy in her life, but it is not for me to talk about here. Every Vietnamese had his own share of tragedies linked to the war. Her English was excellent and she had this delightful habit of mixing her adverbs and adjectives up.

We decided I needed another identity. I suggested being a French catholic priest. I was often mistaken for one in the province where I worked. PB pointed out that her presence didn't lend credence to that. I suggested being a press reporter. We rejected that, but later I was to join an obscure press agency, get the necessary papers, and use that cover in my off duty time. I would also work as a freelance. We settled on my being a teacher.

I was to become one at some future date. Once when we were driving in the delta, I think near My Tho, and had stopped to buy some pineapple from a young boy by the road he had remarked that I was English. He had a brother studying in England. I worked with, was paid by and had a lot of friends who were Americans, but alone in the countryside they were the last people I wanted to be associated with. The road started to climb again and still no traffic.

We now looked out on the most beautiful green I had ever seen. Below us there was wave after wave of all the shades imaginable, forest or jungle, I can't remember, but it was utterly lovely. Whatever shade of fear we were suffering from also disappeared.

I think we had just put it away and pretended to ourselves it wasn't there. In any case we were committed now and it was too late to turn back. At one point I saw the backs of soldiers looking into the forest, and the sound of bursts of machine gun fire, and then nothing. Next we reached a high plateau with gently rolling hills covered with tea or coffee plantations.

I should know which, but this is written after a forty year interval and although some of my memories are crystal clear as though they happened yesterday others are blends of colours and some only grey.

To digress. The old plantations had been owned by the French. I was to get to know a Vietnamese woman whose family owned one. I remember being given large bags of coffee grains freshly roasted, black and small, glistening with butter. The coffee in Vietnam was the Robusta variety. Very strong.

It was usually drunk out of small glasses with lots of sugar but no milk. I used to drink far too much and my nerves suffered accordingly. The tea was drunk from large glasses, without sugar or milk, thank god. Outside Saigon at least it was usually free and accompanied whatever one was eating.

On the rare occasions I stopped somewhere just to have a glass it was always given, so I usually bought a small cake or something. Anyway the water was usually of dubious quality and tea was safer.

We arrived at the civil airfield serving Dalat. Very small. No sign of any activity or any planes. I was to get used to, indeed to take part, in this Vietnamese habit, of going to an airfield for a flight and sit down and wait hopefully, looking up into the sky for hours for the sight of a plane.

When no plane appeared that day they would go away and come back the next. The patience of the East. From here the road climbed steeply and the scenery changed again. One could have been in the Alps.

The forest was now evergreen and there was a magnificent mountain off to our left. Unknown to us this was quite the most dangerous part of the journey and that mountain was full of tunnels infested with the Vietcong.

We finally arrived in Dalat. We had not seen a single motorised vehicle the whole journey, save for that lone catholic priest. I will deal with this town later when I was to get to know it much better. For us it was just a question of finding a hotel , a quick walk around, food and bed. The town maintained a rather French air. With my beard I easily fitted in.

It was the one place in Vietnam where I was never exploited. There was no United States presence at all. In all my visits there I never saw more than one or two Americans. I do not want to criticise Americans in these articles. The problem was, the fighting aside, there was often an unfortunate relationship between the two peoples, both seeing the other's faults and never the qualities.

There was a curfew at eight o'clock. It was a town that had seen its heyday years before. Now it had the South Vietnamese military and police academies. It had the Couvent des Oiseaux. It was known for its vegetables which were sent by road to Saigon. Its girls had a lovely healthy glow to their cheeks. All of this for later. We spent a rather restless night.

There were continual bursts of small arms fire throughout the night. Will I ever tell of any happy one's. There were many, but evidently not at the end of our excursions. We had to return the next day. I only ever had two days off unless arranged otherwise and as all my trips were unauthorised I preferred not to talk about them.

The following morning I filled the car up with petrol, lit my pipe and we began the return trip. It was a lovely day, the air fresh and pleasant but not another car on the road. We descended what I would call the alpine part of the journey, past that imposing mountain now on our right, to the small airfield. We then continued across the area of what must have been a high plateau of plantations.

I took some photos of PB, I still have them, at one point we stopped so she could buy some meat, buffalo(?) off a montagnard woman we came across, but we only had notes and the montagnard would only accept coins. Descending through the lovely green forests PB slept beside me. I was brutally awoken myself when the car hit a pothole, struggled to regain control of it and then continued wide awake. I dread to think what would have been the result of even a minor accident.

The drive was eventless and we passed again through rolling hills of tall grassland. As we approached the rubber plantations we stopped for a coca cola at some village. I have always found it the most refreshing of drinks on such occasions and gives one the force to continue. Then, surprise, a column of South Vietnamese armour approached from the south. The first vehicles we had seen in two days.

I don't know what the US advisors made of me quietly sitting at a table with PB. Actually they gave a most friendly smile. Perhaps not for me. Driving on we were stopped two or three times in the rubber plantations by Regional Force soldiers who wanted to be recompensed for guarding the road for us! I always kept a carton or two of cigarettes for that and usually two or three packets would suffice.

Reaching the Baria Saigon road PB wanted to go to Saigon, so I had to drive there and then back to Van Kiep. I think I must have driven a good eighteen hours during those two days. I could hardly move a muscle when I got back.

Three days after our trip the Viet Cong attacked the road in six places and held control of it for five days. Some time later two Decca employees driving in a jeep from Phan Rang on the coast up to Dalat went missing. In 1971, the British Vice-Consul, a certain Adrian, one of those very rare but most likeable of people was around at my house in Saigon and he told me that he had been interviewing a Viet Cong defector who said they had been stopped at a road block, taken prisoner and died in captivity.

One was British and one American. On the other hand in the same period fourteen unarmed US civilian personnel in a US truck under I think Korean army escort were all killed on the same road when their convoy was ambushed. One had to use one's judgement whether to be armed or not, and if possible what means to travel by. One should also pray not to have been born under an unlucky star.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Vietnam Tour

2008-11-05T17:51:00.000-08:00

Wondering where you can find a trip that encompasses a little bit of everything? Are you looking for tropical rain forests filled with animals and lush, green plant life? Do you prefer the tranquility of the clean mountain air?

Perhaps you’re a gourmet connoisseur and like trying out new and different cuisines, or your shopping sprees are looking for a little spice to make them more entertaining and enjoyable? Where can you find all this while enjoying a relaxing and healthy bicycle trip?

A Vietnam tour can give you all this and more. A Vietnam cycling vacation will lead you through peaceful villages, Buddhist temples, conservation lands with animals unfound in any other part of the world and will expose you to food dishes prepared fresh every morning and shopping in some of the world’s biggest and most well renowned shopping cities of the world.

Experience a Vietnam bike tour today. Asiana Travel Mate offers specialized guided cycling holidays to Vietnam.

A Vietnam vacation involves an intense and enriching atmosphere of changing climates and temperatures. Depending on the area of Vietnam you are traveling to, you may find variances among the weather, with it being generally dry or rainy but always within a comfortable and warm temperature bracket.

Vietnam travel is an experience for all the senses, with a Vietnam tour giving you the chance to experience freshly prepared cuisine influenced with a sweet, sour, spicy or fish sauce. Enjoy the pleasant company of the locals, or cycle through the peaceful villages sprinkled across the country. A Vietnam tour can take you across beautiful, natural beaches with white sand and clear, blue water and islands teeming with wildlife and exotic birds.

Take your Vietnam excursion through captivating rain forests, or up and down the natural highlands of the country. Nowhere else in the world can you find so much to do and so many different experiences. In fact, a Vietnam tour could be one of the most memorable trips you’ll ever take.

Take your Vietnam tour through one of the three divisions of the country; North, Central or South. Experience the mountain ranges and the famous Red River Delta of the North, and stop in the city of Hanoi to experience an unparalleled shopping experience. Stay in a Vietnam hotel in the central part of the country or take a Vietnam cruise across the beautiful and exquisite lagoons.

Explore the island of Southern Vietnam and take a Vietnam tour through Ho Chi Minh where you will find a shopping haven filled with the country’s well known silks, woodwork and embroidery. Best of all, you can enjoy all this while bicycling. A cycling trip not only allows you to stop and take in the sights at your leisure, but allows you to be integrated into the surrounding environment.

You’ll hear the birds singing, feel the peacefulness of the mountainside, and enjoy a sunny day on the beach. Don’t let a trip to Vietnam pass you by; experience something new and memorable.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

The Ancient Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam

2008-10-31T03:17:00.002-07:00

Hanoi and Hoi An are perhaps the only two urban centers of Vietnam where an ancient quarter is still preserved. Due to the impact of climatic conditions, the construction materials and wars, the present physiognomy of the ancient quarter only dated back to the end of the 19th century. But according to various historical sources, this area was the core of Thang Long, the capital, since its establishment in the 11th century. This means that this area has existed for nearly one thousand years.

The ancient quarter has the form of an isosceles triangle the top of which is Hang Than Street, the Eastern side is the Red river dyke, and the Western side is hang Cot, Hang Dieu and Hang Da Street, while the base is formed by hang bong, Hang Gai, Cau Go Streets. Prior to the arrival of the French, the ancient quarter had this common feature: criss-crossing streets like on a chess board, most of the streets bearing the name of the products made or traded there.

Sugar Street, Silver Street, Bamboo Basket Street etc. "Tube-house" line both sides of the streets: They are long, narrow shop houses which sometimes and on another street; the front room is a shop for selling or producing goods, behind it is an open -air inner courtyard which provides light and ventilation and which is also used for raising decorative fish or ornamental plants and supplementary area.

Most are none-storey house, with up-turned roofs covered with small red tiles, the two walls surpassing in height the roof to be built in the shape of steps and the edge of roof being two strange pillars. Some houses have second storey but it is usually low, and seldom does be very small, because the population was forbidden, under the feudal regime, to look at the face of the Emperor, particularly from above, when he was passing.

These days, the Ancient Quarter becomes "must see" destination for every tourist visiting Hanoi - The Capital of Vietnam.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Vietnam Travel - Den Gion Ninh Chu Resort

2008-10-31T03:17:00.001-07:00

Spread over more than nine hectares, the resort is perfectly suited to its environment. Statues of Cham dancing girls, carved stone panels, and clay water jars reminded us that we were in the territory of the former Cham kingdom, which flourished in central Vietnam from the second to 15th centuries. Like the Cham towers scattered throughout this region, the resort was decorated in soft shades of red and brown.

Most of the statues in the resort were made by Dang Nang Tho, a master potter from Bau Truc village. Inspired by ancient Cham designs, Mr. Tho uses local materials to create unique sculptures. Like the statues, the rooms combined traditional motifs with modern touches. While we checked into a small villa, some adventurous guests chose to sleep in tents. Following a swim and walk on the while sand, we joined a party grilling fresh seafood over a campfire on the beach.

The sunset transformed the waves into a tapestry of colors: pale blue, green, indigo. Starting out to sea I saw a flock of

Mai fish leaping above waves, as if to welcome me to Ninh Chu Beach.

Come dark, the atmosphere was romantic. The lights from the Sakaya Restaurant were reflected on the sea, while the clay lanterns that lined the resort's paths gave the scene a cozy glow. We sat near the sea and ate fresh prawns and sashimi, washed down with wine. The lights of the squid fishing boats sparkled offshore, forming a glittering string on the horizon.

Listed as a three-star resort, when finished, Den Gion will feature 100 rooms, 36 bungalows and a campground big enough to hold 40 tents. While many visitors will be content to spend their time swimming and sunbathing, various interesting day trips are available.

Day trips
Ninh Chu Beach is surrounded by historic and scene sites - perfect for excursions should you tire of sea and surf.

Vinh Hy Bay
Visitors to Vinh Hy bay can explore the culture of the Raglai people, visit an ancient Viet fishing village, and feast on fresh seafood.

Po Klong Gairai Tower
Delicated to King Porome (1627-1651), this tower is the site of the annual Kate festival, which attracts thousands of worshippers.

Bau Truc Village
Using local clay and outdoor kilns, potters from Bau Truc village have been making jars and pots for centuries.

Ngoan Muc Pass
Ngoan Muc pass provides travelers with stunning views over Phan rang and its environs.

My Nghiep Village
East of national Highway 1A, the Cham village of My Nghiep still produces traditional Cham brocade. Visitors may watch the women working at their looms.

Nam Cuong Sand Dune
Located near the Cham village of Tuan Tu, this immense and dune is the site of various festivals. Visitors coming during Muslim holy month or Ramadan will witness colorful celebrations.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Peace Brings Treasured Travel To Vietnam

2008-10-31T03:14:00.000-07:00

Vietnam is a paradise for both the outdoor adventurer and city explorer alike. Winding down 3,444 kilometers of coastline from the northern Red River Delta near the Chinese border to the Mekong Delta at the southernmost tip of the Southeast Asian peninsula, Vietnam is a splendid blend of picturesque coastline and lush inland terrain. The region's history of conquests and wars makes travel to Vietnam today a rich and rewarding experience during this time of precious peace.

During the 20th century, Vietnam was at war for nearly 45 consecutive years with different countries. After French and Spanish forces ravaged the area, most of the south became a French colony by 1867.

Finally in 1945, Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence, sparking a French rebuttal and attracting international interest of U.S., Russian and Cambodian forces. Minh's dream of an independent (communist) nation was not realized until 1989 when the U.N. subdued the conflict with Khmer Rouge and pulled Vietnamese troops out of Cambodia.

Urban and Pristine Wonders of Vietnamese Travel

National identity has become an integral part of life for this war trodden state and today the proud Vietnamese are more willing to embrace foreign travelers and share their magnificent cultural history as their economy begins to mature. Visit the economic capital of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) in the south to witness the vibrant and progressive culture that has taken root in Vietnam.

While there, explore the extensive botanical gardens, Buddhist monasteries, and stop by the Binh Soup Shop, which was the secret Viet Cong headquarters in Saigon during the Vietnam War. In the far north, the capital city of Hanoi is a bit more relaxed, speaking to ancient Vietnamese culture and 1000 years of history along the streets of the Old Quarter. Visit the intriguing One Pillar Pagoda build by Emperor Tong in the 11th century and replenish your spirits in the Bach Ma Temple, the city's oldest and most revered.

Retreat to the captivating beauty of Vietnam's wilderness for a more tranquil portion of your journey. Tropical rainforests abound in the protected area of Ba Be National Park, located close to the Chinese border in the north. The local Tay people live in stilt houses and contribute cultural significance to the area.

Take an elephant ride through the expansive Yok Don National Park for a chance to see monkeys, birds and even leopards. If confined spaces don't trigger nightmares, the Phong Nha Cave is a must see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was created 250 million years ago and boasts a cavernous entanglement stretching thousands of meters below ground. Portions of this natural wonder are open to the public daily.

For the claustrophobic, travel to Halong Bay in the Gulf of Tonkin, another World Heritage Site, which is dotted with more than 3,000 tiny islands with cliffs and white sand beaches that cascade into the surrounding sparkling waters.

Due to the country's broad north-south range, Vietnam is a wonderful country to explore any time of year. The sheltered forests and increased speed of the coastal cities offer an invaluable variety for a perfectly balanced journey. Travel to Vietnam to discover this underestimated Southeast Asian gem.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Travel Asia

2008-10-31T03:10:00.000-07:00

Traveling Asia is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. When you travel to Asia, there are so many things to see and do; make sure that you plan your trip in advance. However, remember to leave some free time in you itinerary, because when you travel Asia, you want to make sure that you have the flexibility for an occasional adventure.

As the largest continent on earth, Asia offers travelers a huge variety of places to visit, things to do and, cultures to see. For first time visitors who travel Asia, we recommend the following:

Island Nations-
Indonesia:
One of the most diverse destinations for travelers to Asia, the Indonesian archipelago can provide enough exciting destinations for a complete trip. Whether you are seeking relaxation, natural beauty, cultural diversity or all of the above, Indonesia will show you an exciting and wonderful Asian travel destination.

Philippines:
Comprised of over 7000 islands, the Philippines has become on of Asia's forgotten travel destinations. Due to a recent history that includes martial law and economic corruption, the Philippines has lost much of its previous tourist activity to its more stable neighbors. Those who do visit will enjoy beautiful spots like the Boracay beaches and Lake Sebu.

Japan:
For decades, the island nation of Japan has been a favorite destination for travelers to Asia. From amazing Zen temples to kitschy reproductions of western monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Japan has something for every traveler who visits. The hardest thing is fitting it all in.

Southeast Asia
Thailand:
The Kingdom of Thailand is the most popular tourist destination in Southeast Asia drawing more visitors than its neighbors. With both mountainous regions and a beautiful coastline dotted with amazing islands Thailand is one a must see for those who travel to Asia. The city of Bangkok, the largest in Thailand is one of the most popular in all of Asia, as well.

Vietnam:
A quickly emerging destination among travelers to Asia, Vietnam is reshaping its image among world travel destinations. From the beaches along the coast, to its soaring inland mountains, Vietnam offers travelers to Asia with a sublime experience.

Mainland Asia-
China:
Too vast for words alone, China is rapidly emerging as the top destination for travelers to Asia. As China continues to modernize both economically and socially, it is becoming easier for those who travel to Asia to visit one of the largest and most populous countries in the world. If you travel to China, follow a loose itinerary and try to see as much as you can.

Korea:
South Korea is one of the most westernized of all Asian nations. Travelers to Korea can enjoy the modernity of the capital city, Seoul; or they can try visiting beautiful natural wonders like Songnisan National Park.

India:
Another of Asia's largest and most heavily populated countries, India is a complex and diverse nation unlike any other you will experience when you travel throughout Asia. Visitors to India will be enchanted by its unpredictability and surprising cultural dramas that exist among its inhabitants.

Article Source: http://www.articlesnatch.com

Alaska Luxury Cruises – For Those Who Enjoy Nature

2008-10-25T21:38:00.001-07:00

Have you been heading to the same places over and over again? Tired of the same places and the same faces? Want some change?

Do you dare to be different? Then why not head to test the Alaskan landscape and feel the difference. Are you hungry for some pure fun? Do you have the burning desire to do something different? Want a chance to do that? Here you go – the Alaskan adventure. Everything to suit your need, a perfect getaway, for a short excursion or for a long vacation, Alaska is the answer.

If extravagance is your middle name, there are cruises that offer just that, a little more of pampering. The Jacuzzi or the massage, you name it you have it on cruises-everything at your disposal .a complete wine and dine experience that will make you shout out for more! Cruises rule the roost when it comes to class, comfort and luxury , and this Alaskan cruise is no different.

If it is adventure is what you are looking for then this is the answer. if you feel you are tired of relaxing then you have a perfect date for you in the form of Alaska .the natural habitat to some of worlds rarest animals like otters, sea lions and humpback whales, Alaska lets you get close to their homes. To experience this you will have to get up from your seats and head straight to the land to be, Alaska.

Just to feel the difference, head to the whole new world of Alaska and trust us that the experience is once in a lifetime one – be it adventure or luxury a complete answer to your long awaited break. Once you get going, you will have to fasten your seat belts as everything you see will make you jump in joy. Experience to enjoy.