Yachtcharter Dodekanes Sdstlich des griechischen Festlandes liegen die zwlf Inseln des Dodekanes. RHODOS ist die grte Insel des Dodekanes. Hier stand einst der berhmte 35 m hohe Koloss von Rhodos eines der Sieben Weltwunder der Antike. Die Kste ist 370 km lang das Straennetz ausgezeichnet und die Busverbindungen zwischen den Stdten und Drfern funktionieren reibungslos.

Die Inselhauptstadt heit ebenfalls Rhodos liegt an der Nordspitze der Insel und besteht aus Neustadt und Altstadt. Die Neustadt bietet moderne Luxushotels mit Swimmingpools und breiten Geschftsstraen. Die Altstadt hingegen die von den Mauern einer mittelalterlichen Festung umgeben ist ldt zu einem Bummel durch die schmalen kopfsteingepflasterten Gassen ein. Das Ritterkrankenhaus aus dem 15. Jahrhundert ist heute ein Archologisches Museum das die Aphrodite von Rhodos beheimatet. Der Palast der Groen Meister beherbergt eine herrliche Sammlung an Mbeln aus dem 16. und 17. Jh. sowie Mosaikfubden aus rmischer Zeit. 2 km auerhalb der Stadt liegt die Akropolis des alten Rhodos mit zahlreichen eindrucksvollen Ruinen einschlielich des Apollotempels eines Theaters und Stadions aus dem 2. Jahrhundert v. Chr. Die Ruinen des antiken Ialisos liegen in Filerimos 15 km von Rhodos Stadt entfernt. 25 km sdwestlich von Ialissos liegt Kamiros eine der wenigen archologischen Ausgrabungssttten Griechenlands an der man noch viele gut erhaltene Gebude und Monumente aus der hellenischen Zeit bewundern kann.

In der Akropolis von Lindos 56 km sdstlich von Rhodos gibt es auch noch einige Baudenkmler der Antike.

Faliraki Ixia Kalithea Kremasti Afandou Golf Ialisos Kritina Lindos und Profitis Elias.Rhodos ist auch bei Sportlern beliebt. Gute Fischgrnde gibt es bei Lindos Kameiros und Genadi.

Halbtags: Tglich eine Stadtrundfahrt. Ausflge nach Lindos Kamiros Ialisos zum Schmetterlingstal sowie Rhodos bei Nacht mit Abendessen und Folkloretnzen. Ganztags: Eine Besichtigungstour der byzantinischen Baudenkmler.

Ganztagestouren entlang der Kste von Rhodos nach Simi und Panormitis sowie Ausflugsfahrten mit Fhrung nach Kos Chalki Tilos Nissiros und Patmos.

KOS ist eine fruchtbare Insel mit mildem Klima und herrlichen Sandstrnden einige haben vulkanischen Sand. Die meisten Sehenswrdigkeiten liegen in der gleichnamigen Stadt oder in der unmittelbaren Umgebung so dass man sie bequem zu Fu oder per Fahrrad erreichen kann. Dazu zhlt die Platane des Hippokrates ein riesiger Baum mit 12 m Umfang ein alter Platz mit den Ruinen griechischer Gebude aus dem 4.2. Jh. v. Chr. der Dionysostempel das Odeon rmische Bder und ein hellenisches Gymnasium aus dem 2. Jh. v. Chr. mit einer restaurierten Kolonnade des Xystos. Die Johanniterfestung die man ebenfalls besichtigen kann ist ein eindrucksvolles Beispiel mittelalterlicher Architektur mit Burgmauer und graben.

Die Strnde auf dem Weg nach Lambi nrdlich von Kos und Richtung Sden bei Agios Fokas werden allmhlich fr den Tourismus erschlossen. Beliebte Urlaubsziele sind Asfendiou Kardamena Pili die alte Festung bei Palio Pili die Fischerdrfer Marmari und Mastihari Kefalos mit seinen schnen Strnden und Palatia die Ruinen der alten Inselhauptstadt Astipalea; auerdem Antimahia Lambi Milos Lappa und Psalidi. Die regionalen Fhrgesellschaften verbinden Kos mit Rhodos Kalymnos und Nissiros.

Tageskreuzfahrten nach Kalymnos Nissiros mit Vulkanbesichtigung Patmos mit Besichtigung des Klosters und der Hhle Johannes des Tufers und nach Pserimos mit seinem traumhaften Badestrand.

PATMOS liegt 140 Seemeilen von Pirus entfernt; ein Dampfer verkehrt auf dieser Strecke. Auerdem ist Patmos ber den regionalen Fhrverkehr mit den umliegenden Inseln Fourni Lipsi und Leros verbunden. 2 km vom Hafen Skala entfernt und mit dem Bus oder Taxi zu erreichen liegt Hora die Inselhauptstadt. Das majesttische Kloster des Propheten Johannes in Hora ist ein Wallfahrtsort. Die Heilige Grotte in der Johannes seine Offenbarung erhalten und niedergeschrieben haben soll liegt in der Kirche der Apokalypse unterhalb des Klosters. Herrliche Strnde die per Auto oder Motorboot von Skala aus erreichbar sind gibt es in Grikos Meloi Netia Diakofit und in der KambosBucht. Die Ausflge zu den Klstern Panagia Apolou und Panagia Geranou sind besonders eindrucksvoll.

KALIMNOS erreicht man ebenfalls mit Liniendampfern vom 180 Seemeilen entfernten Pirus. Regionale Fhren verkehren zu den anderen Inseln der Dodekanes. Der Hauptort heit Kalimnos. Ausflugsziele um Kalimnos sind die Tropfsteinhhle Kefala und die Grotte der Sieben Jungfrauen sowie die Heilquellen bei Therma 1 km sdlich der Stadt Kalimnos. An der Westkste liegen mehrere Urlaubsorte u. a. Linaria Mirties und Massouri. In der Nhe von Horio erheben sich die Ruinen der frankobyzantinischen Festung Pera Kastro sowie Spuren der Ruinen der Christuskirche aus dem 4. Jahrhundert. Im Sdwesten liegen die Klster Evangelistria und Agia Ekaterini die beide auch Pensionen betreiben.

SIMI ist eine berwiegend felsige Insel 235 Seemeilen von Pirus und 25 Seemeilen von Rhodos entfernt. In Pedi eignet sich der Strand gut zum Baden ebenso die Buchten von Nanou Marathoundas und Nimborio die mit dem Motorboot erreichbar sind. Die nahe gelegenen Inseln Seskli und Nimos bieten gute Fischgrnde.

KARPATHOS ist eine bergige Insel mit fruchtbaren Tlern. Pirus liegt 227 Seemeilen entfernt. Im Sommer kann man die 89 Seemeilen von Rhodos mit dem Flugzeug berbrcken ansonsten fhrt man per Fhre. Der Hauptort Pigadia liegt in einer weitlufigen Bucht an der Ostkste. In der Nhe des natrlichen Hafens in Possi gibt es schne Strnde. Busse und Taxis verkehren auf der Insel die Kstengegenden werden mit dem Motorboot angelaufen. Schn ist es in Aperi Volada Mirtonas Othos Messohori mit seinem herrlichen Badestrand in Agia Marina im Fischerstdtchen Finiki und in Arkassa. Im Norden der Insel erhebt sich der dicht bewaldete Berg Profitis Elias 1140 m. Vom Hafenstdtchen Diafani an der Nordkste fhrt die Strae zum Dorf Olimbos.

Ausflge zur nrdlichen Landzunge von Karpathos und mit dem Motorboot von Diafani aus zur kleinen Insel Saria mit den Ruinen der alten Stadt Nissiros bieten sich an. In der KiraPanagiaBucht gibt es traumhafte Strnde und ein interessantes Kloster.

LEROS ist eine gebirgige und ausgiebig bebaute Insel 169 Seemeilen von Pirus entfernt. Ausflge zu den Kstendrfern Agia Marina Koukouli Kithoni Panagies Blefouti Gourna Lepida und Temenia bieten sich an. In der frankobyzantinischen Festung in der Inselhauptstadt Patheni und den Ruinen des byzantinischen Schlosses am Berg Kasteli im Nordwesten findet man die Spuren des alten Glanzes der Insel. Einer der grten Naturhfen des Mittelmeeres liegt 3 km von Patheni entfernt. Alte Sitten und Gebruche haben auch hier berlebt: die Karnevalsfeiern erinnern an das alte Dionysosfest.

Auf TILOS gibt es wenig Tourismus. Die Insel ist hgelig mit einsamen Strnden und liegt 290 Seemeilen von Pirus und 49 Seemeilen von Rhodos entfernt. Die wenigen Einwohner leben in Livadia einem Naturhafen oder in Megalo Horio einem Stdtchen mit einer mittelalterlichen Burg. Gute Badestrnde findet man in Livadia Agios Antonius und Plaka.

NISSIROS liegt 200 Seemeilen von Pirus und 60 Seemeilen von Rhodos entfernt und ist mit diesen beiden Hfen durch regelmigen Schiffsverkehr verbunden. Die Insel ist nur 42 qkm gro der riesige erloschene Vulkan lsst sie jedoch grer erscheinen. Die Inselhauptstadt Mandraki liegt unterhalb der mittelalterlichen Burg und des Klosters Panagia Spiliani. 8 km sdwestlich von Mandraki liegen die Reste der alten Akropolis mit den pelaginischen Mauern die an vielen Stellen noch gut erhalten sind. Gute Badestrnde findet man im Fischerdorf Pali.

CHALKI ist eine kleine hgelige Insel mit einsamen Strnden 302 Seemeilen von Pirus und 35 Seemeilen von Rhodos entfernt. Es gibt keinen Autoverkehr man kann jedoch Pferde oder kleine Motorboote mieten. Die wenigen Inselbewohner leben vom Schwammfischen und Tauchen. Wahrzeichen der hbschen Inselhauptstadt Nimborio ist der Glockenturm Agios Nikolaos. Die besten Badestrnde liegen bei Nimborio. KASTELORIZO MEGISTI die am weitesten im Osten gelegene Insel der gis ist nur 9 qkm gro. Ein Boot von Rhodos luft die Insel zweimal wchentlich an. Hoch ber den Dchern auf einem Felsen liegt eine alte Burg das Castello Rosso die im 14. Jahrhundert von den Johannitern wieder aufgebaut wurde. Mit dem Boot erreicht man die Hhle von Parasta im Sdosten der Insel. Schne Strnde gibt es in der Nhe des Hafens von Agio Stefanos und auf der unbewohnten Insel Agios Georgios 10 Min. mit dem Motorboot entfernt.

ASTIPALA ist eine bergige und fruchtbare Insel mit schnen sandigen Buchten. Sie liegt 165 Seemeilen von Pirus entfernt. Astipala ist ruhig und erholsam. ber der Inselhauptstadt mit dem gleichen Namen ragt die frankobyzantinische Burg. Die schnsten Fleckchen der Insel sind Livadia und Maltezana wo es wunderbare Sandstrnde gibt.

KASSOS liegt 3 Seemeilen sdwestlich von der Insel Karpathos 215 Seemeilen von Pirus und 94 Seemeilen von Rhodos entfernt. Der DodekanesDampfer luft auch diese Insel an. Die Hafenstadt Emborios und die Inselhauptstadt Fri sind besonders malerisch. Eine interessante Tropfsteinhhle liegt westlich des Dorfes Agia Marina. Die Straen sind nicht asphaltiert und fhren zu den hbschen Drfern Panagia Arvanitohori und Poli. Mit dem Boot kann man Armathia erreichen.

About the writer:  www.yachtchartergriechenland.de is one of the most yacht sailing and renting company in greece.Yachtcharter Griechenland unsere Sttzpunkte liegen in Athen in der Marina Kalamaki bei Alimos an der stlichen Seite von Attika in der wunderschnen Ortschaft Lavrion dort befindet sich auch die Olympic Marina. Unsere Charteryachten sind im Yachthafen von Lavrion stationiert. In Syros der Hauptinsel Hauptstadt der Kykladen in der Marina Finikas Ermoupolis in Skiathos auf der grnen Insel der Sporaden in der kleinen Marina Skiathos.

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Los Angeles is a very fascinating city and a great place for anybody to take a vacation. Visiting Los Angeles and the surrounding areas could be one of the best and most memorable experiences that you will ever have. Tourists seem to get excited about everything from the simplest things to the bigger things. For some reason tourists always like to see the famous Hollywood sign and especially visitors from noncoastal states like to go to the beach and see the Pacific Ocean for the first time.

If you like more of an adrenalin rush of fun and are planning to come to the city of Los Angeles you will be in reasonable driving distance from several amusement and water parks including Six Flags Magic Mountain Hurricane Harbor Disneyland Knott’s Berry Farm Universal Studios Raging Waters and other places like the Los Angeles Zoo and Griffith Park.

If you are really interested in the Film Industry you can go to the tapings of numerous television shows where you can see your favorite stars live and in person. Or if you prefer to be in front of the camera instead of in the audience there are several advertisements in newspapers magazines and posted on telephone poles looking for all kinds of people who want to be background Extras in movies television shows and commercials. No experience is necessary. Be sure to go down Hollywood Boulevard and look on the ground for the stars of your favorite entertainers on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

You can go to Staples Center home of the 9 time NBA National BasketballAssociation World Champions Los Angeles Lakers. Magic Johnson has moved on from playing professional basketball but you will still see his name all over Los Angeles. He is involved with a few businesses around town including some 24 Hour Fitness locations the Magic Johnson Theatres located in the Crenshaw Shopping Center Starbucks Coffee and Magic Johnson’s TGI Friday’s Restaurant.

Right across the street from the Forum in Inglewood where the Lakers used to play for about 30 years until a few years ago is the Hollywood Park Race Track and Casino. They only have horse racing a few months out of the year. But you are in “Luck” because the Casino is in full swing 24 hours a day 7 days a week to satisfy your gambling needs. It is one of the few places around here that at least so far they still have FREE parking.

For Baseball fans you can go to Dodger Stadium home of the former World Series Champions Los Angeles Dodgers. You would not want to go to Dodger Stadium without eating one of their famous Dodger Dogs.

Not only do we have professional sports champions we also have our very famous cross town college rivals the U.C.L.A Bruins and the U.S.C Trojans who have both brought back team championships to the city of Los Angeles and they both have had their students and alumni bring back Gold Medals when they were representing the United States over the years in the Olympics.If you want to see another historic Sports site then go to the Los Angeles Coliseum. Not only was it the home of the Rams and then the Raiders way back when Los Angeles used to have a NFL Football team but it was a major venue for both the 1932 and the 1984 Summer Olympics. If you watched the Olympics then you saw the Los Angeles Coliseum during the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and the Track and Field events. The Olympic Torch is still there.

While you are at the Coliseum it would be well worth your while to walk over to the California Science Center in Exposition Park. It is a great educational learning experience for both adults and children. The Sports Arena is in that general area. Also within walking distance in that area are several museums that you might be interested in going through.

You would not want to miss out on spending time on the 405 San Diego Freeway which runs along the west side of Los Angeles County so you can enjoy the bumper to bumper traffic that we all get to experience so frequently. Most people in the area call it the world’s largest parking lot. Your foot rides the brake of your car while burning that expensive gasoline. Usually you are either at a full stop or traveling at a snails pace. Just hope that they do not have a vehicle accident on the freeway ahead of you because the snail would actually beat you in a race.

If you leave the Los Angeles International Airport LAX which is right next to the Playa del Rey Beach on the far west side of the city you can get on the 405 freeway and head northbound. When you are finally able to get through the traffic you can visit the J. Paul Getty Museum which is just before you get to the valley.

You can go to Marina del Rey just north of the airport where you can enjoy a dinner cruise on the ocean or bring your fishing pole and go out on one of the all day fishing boats or just hang out in the Fisherman’s Village that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and has food drinks and gift shops. There are places near most of the beaches where you can rent bicycles. There is Bike Path the runs along the side of the Pacific Ocean right on the beach. If you like rollerblading rollerskating and / or skateboarding then you will really like Venice Beach.

Normally from the west side of Los Angeles if you are at or near the Playa del Rey Beach and look up you can see the planes taking off over the ocean. If you are somewhere east of the airport you can see the planes coming in for a landing. But if you look up and see a helicopter don’t get confused. It is probably not a guided helicopter tour. More than likely it is the Los Angeles Police Department Helicopter chasing down a suspect with the news media helicopters trying to get their shots and doing their best to stay out of the way. Police car chases are very common around here. You hear sirens from emergency vehicles coming from all directions. But that is Los Angeles’ finest keeping our city nice and safe.

In all fairness as a traveler you really need to make the safety of both yourself and your family a top priority no matter what city in the world you visit.

If you want to go on another cruise you can go to Catalina Island. You can go over there have some fun and come back the same day if you want or you can stay for several days if you really like it. There are numerous activities out there.

Another historic site that you would not want to miss is the street corner of Florence and Normandie Avenues which was where the 1992 Los Angeles Riots all began. Most of the businesses that were burned to the ground during that time have been rebuilt since then so of course they look much better and more modern. Others may never be rebuilt.

On the far south side of Los Angeles County is Long Beach where you can see the Queen Mary Ship that is docked. You can tour the ship. Also while you are in Long Beach you can visit the Aquarium of the Pacific for underwater adventure. Just like the California Science Center it is another great educational learning opportunity for both adults and children.

For shopping it depends what you are interested in. You can get just about anything you can think of at the malls which are located all over the place. The Del Amo Mall in Torrance the southern part of Los Angeles County is one of the largest malls in the United States. If you are looking for discount clothing and other merchandise then go to the garment district in downtown Los Angeles. If you want the expensive stuff then go down Rodeo Drive and the Wilshire Boulevard area in Beverly Hills. Just east of Beverly Hills is the Grove where you can check out the Farmers Market that has been serving Los Angeles since 1934. The area has been changed expanded and built up over the past few years.

Wilshire Boulevard is one of the main business streets in Los Angeles that runs from the beach to downtown Los Angeles. So if you want to drive down Wilshire Boulevard just for fun you can start by the Santa Monica Pier overlooking the Pacific Ocean and it will take you through the cities of Santa Monica Beverly Hills and Los Angeles. When you get to downtown be sure to take a look at the Los Angeles Civic Center area.

Another interesting street to drive down for fun is Crenshaw Boulevard. You can start at Wilshire Blvd and go southbound on Crenshaw Boulevard. It will take you through the inner city of Los Angeles. Your trip will take you by the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Shopping Center Leimert Park in the Crenshaw District then through Inglewood Hawthorne Lawndale Torrance Rolling Hills Estates and all the way down until you end up in Rancho Palos Verdes in the South Bay area of Los Angeles County.

Check the schedule of the Los Angeles Convention Center. They always have some type of entertainment business or informational seminars expos or workshops going on over there. You might find something going on that you may want to attend.There are countless food and beverage locations all over the Los Angeles area from fine dining restaurants to fast food places and every shade of grey in between that will satisfy any appetite. You just have to find the ones that match your taste. There are all kinds of entertainment dancing activities and shows even in addition to all of the things that are mentioned above.

If you are not visiting someone who has a car that you can use then you should probably rent a car because waiting around for public transportation in Los Angeles will use up most of your vacation time. Have fun.

About the writer:  Name: Nivedita Balamurugan
Occupation: Traveler
Website: www.thereservationcenter.com
Biography: Nivedita is with The Reservation Center providers of discounted tours to make your vacations and sightseeing trips in various cities across the world as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

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1 Beach amp; Surf
Bali is well known for its pristine white beaches and secluded coves the most famous beaches being in Nusa Dua where long stretches of soft white sand will soothe and comfort the soles of your feet. Many hotels have their own private stretch of beach with a Beach club or restaurant along. Kuta and Uluwatu are areas in South Bali well known for their good surf which makes Bali one of the most popular surf destinations in the world.

2 Padi fields
The beautiful terraced green padi fields are another must see for a visitor to the island of Bali. Many tourists will automatically head to Ubud about 45 minutes from Bali Airport to stay in a hotel and villa overlooking the padi fields. The best padi field scenery is at Jatih Luwih and Tegallalang which are not far from Ubud.

3 Galleries and Museums
Beautiful paintings can be found in Ubud home of many of Bali’s well known and aspiring artists. The peaceful scenery and tranquility of the area must be an inspiration for the remarkably detailed paintings these artists create and whose works are displayed in the numerous art galleries and museums found in Ubud village. Some of the more well known galleries are The Agung Rai Museum of Art Neka Museum Antonio Blanco Renaissance Museum Komaneka Gallery and Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women just to name a few.

4 Dance and Music
Dance and music plays a very important part of the life of a Balinese. Every ceremony and festival is almost always accompanied by traditional dance and the soothing sounds of the Gamelan. You will find many locations in and near Ubud where you can watch these dance performances. Dancers wear glittery and colourful costumes executing to perfection elaborate hand movements and facial expressions to convey stories of the Ramanaya. You can watch the elegant Legong Dance at the Ubud Palace in central Ubud or see other entertaining performances such as the Warrior Dance and Kecak Dance at other locations within the town. Wayang Kulit or Shadow Play performances are also a common evening entertainment for the local Balinese and tourists alike.

5 Yoga and Spa Treamtents
There is a growing number of world class spa facilities and health resorts in Bali especially in the Ubud area. Using natural herbs and indigenous products you will have a wide variety of spa treatments to choose from and enjoy. Spa treatments are ideal for relaxation and what every person who needs a break from this fast paced world of work family and stress will surely appreciate. A variety of massages using traditional Aryuvedic Shiatsu and hot stones are on the menu for you to choose from. Traditional treatments such as Boreh and Lulur are common. Facials foot massages healthy meals and private spa facilities are also available at some hotels and salons. Holistic resorts offer yoga programs and have resident teachers who will guide you to peace of mind.

6 Festivals and Ceremonies
Religion plays a central role in the life of every Balinese family. The island has hundreds of temples for which each and every one has a temple anniversary known as Odalan. On this day the villagers visit the temple for prayers and socializing. It can be considered a community event to bring the people together and promotes good feelings between villagers. With the Balinese Hindu religion comes many daily practices such as placing offerings such as trays of flowers called Canang Sari in temples shrines and symbolic locations to ward off evil and please the Gods. Nyepi Day which is the Balinese New Year is a day that is spent in silence in reflective prayer and meditation. The days before Nyepi however provide many opportunities for a tourist to witness ceremonies and rituals including the noisy and colourful OgohOgoh procession which happens one day before Nyepi on Melasti Day. This procession is a colourful display of the creativity of the Balinese where towering papier mache monsters are paraded through the town in noisy processions in efforts to chase away any evil.

Galungan is another major festival for the Balinese which at the end of 10 days is marked by Kuningan Day. This festival occurs every six months so you will have the opportunity to see it in another half year if you miss the first round. During this time you will see the Barong Dance procession which goes through the village performing in front of shops and houses as an act of purification. Cremations are another village affair where the entire family and friends of the deceased are involved. The body is carried from the home grounds through the village to the cremation site where it is place in a towering sarcophagus and burnt to the ground.

7 Sea Sports
Bali has some of the most colourful and interesting sea life you will ever see. Well known dive sites are located in Amed and Tulamben where there are ship wrecks in Menjangan Island in the North West and Pandang Bali and Lembongan Island in the East to name a few. Nusa Dua and Sanur are ideal for snorkeling but there are many other areas as well.

8 Visit Active Volcanoes
Indonesia has hundreds of volcanoes and Bali has some of its own famous ones as well. Kintamani town is where you will see the 2800m high Mount Bali a popular tourist destination in Bali. The volcano has a large caldera lake and it is possible to go on a sunrise hike to the top of Mount Batur if you can wake up early enough! Mount Agung the location of Bali’s largest and most sacred temple Puri Besakih is Bali’s highest and most sacred mountain at 3142m high. Pura Besakih the Mother Temple is where Bali’s most important ceremonies are held and worth visiting if you have the opportunity to go on an East Bali tour especially in April when the temple has its anniversary.

9 Land Adventure Activities
Apart from the southern tourist towns Bali is an island still very much in its natural state compared to other tourist destinations. You will soon realise that there are many locations that provide the ideal terrain for exciting adventure activities. Bali is not only Kuta and Nusa Dua. Travel north and you will find out what the real Bali has to offer culture spectacular scenery and experiences that modern tourist towns with shopping malls are totally devoid of.

The rivers mountains and jungles are all places where you can experience Bali away from the tourist crowds. White water rafting down the scenic Ayung or down the heart stopping Telaga River rapids is one of the more popular activities for tourists who come to Bali. A mountain bike ride from Kintamani down to Ubud through the padi fields and small villages with friendly locals is another leisurely activity for families and individuals alike. Bali is home to the Taro Elephant Park complete with accommodation activities and elephant fun for all ages. You can ride an elephant through the jungle marvel at their intelligence and let them make you laugh when you visit the Taro Elephant safari park in Bali. Quad driving will take you through the jungles and rougher terrain. Canyon tubing where you sit in a floating tube and coast down a river through the jungle is another fun activity. A new attraction the Bali Safari and Marine Park is a unique blend of wildlife conservation and culture. You will be able to see wildlife in their natural surroundings and learn about the ancient Balinese culture at this tourist attraction.

10 Shop till you drop
Finally what the first thing tourists tend to do on any trip and most certainly to Bali is to shop. You have Kuta Center Galeria Nusa Dua Matahari in Legian and Ubud Market where you will find bargains of all sorts. The Balinese are well known for their creative and artistic skills evident in the numerous arts and crafts found throughout the island. Many craft factories are found in Tegallalang and the surrounding area. Skilled silversmiths in the village of Celuk sell their creations in eclectic shops in Ubud but you will be able to buy their jewelry at slightly better prices. Sukawati art market is where you will find many of the fabrics used in Balinese clothing as well as hand made crafts such as woven baskets at good prices. Crafts and statues are made from natural products found on Bali such as coconut wood bamboo and volcanic sand stone. Masks and puppets make interesting gift items. You will also find many unique home decor items such as table runners lamp shades and wall decorations to give your home a touch of Bali style when you return. Furniture items are often available at attractive prices compared to if you were to purchase them from outside of Bali.

So there you are a list of many things you can do in Bali. Relax get fit have fun gain new experiences and most of all a memorable holiday. And if you count them up you’ve got a lot more than 10 things to do there. This is by no means an exhaustive list but more than enough for a 3 to 7 day trip to this wonderful and magical island of the Gods.

About the writer:  Trias Bali Travel is an inbound travel services company located in Denpasar Bali Indonesia. We offer Bali tour packages hotel reservations and event management for a hassle free holiday to Bali Island. http://www.triasbali.com

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So youre headed to Orlando… but where to start? Youll find such a wealth of fantastic resorts and restaurants it can be difficult to choose exactly what you wish to indulge in. How best can you plan a visit in which each day comes with the finest this marvelous vacation spot has to offer? In order to help you in making the overwhelming decisions of where to stay and what places to dine here are what I believe to be Orlandos best offerings:

Best Deluxe Resort
On Disney property its the Grand Floridian with its upscale Victorian atmosphere and lagoonside setting facing the Magic Kingdom. Offproperty handsdown its the Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes where you may never even feel the need to leave the property. At Universal go for the Portofino Bay Hotel with its unsurpassed ambience of an Italian seaside resort.

Best Resort Pool
* Disney’s Yacht and Beach Clubs Stormalong Bay a 3acre mini water park
* The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphins lush grottostyle lagoon pool
* The Volcano Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Resort with its luxuriant waterfall smoking peak and perfect view of Cinderellas Castle
* The boulderstrewn wonderland at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge with its very own erupting geyser
* The lush fantasyland pool at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress cooled by twelve waterfalls
* The JW Marriotts Lazy River 24000 square feet of winding delight

Best HomeAwayFromHome Property
The Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge with its Bay Lake frontage and national park character or Disney’s Beach Club Villas conveniently located next door to Epcot. But look for the new Animal Kingdom Villas now under construction to boot both of these off the list.

Best Resort Atmosphere
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge where hundreds of animals roam the savanna and the air is pulsating to the beat of African drums. Running a close second is Universals Portofino Bay Hotel where guests are transported to a romantic seaside Italian village.

Best Resort Lobby
How to choose? Three of Disney’s resorts make the cut: the Wilderness Lodge the Grand Floridian and the Animal Kingdom Lodge all eyepopping in their grandeur.

Best Access To The Parks
The Contemporary Polynesian and Grand Floridian with monorail access to the Magic Kingdom Epcot and the Ticket and Transportation Center. At Universal the Hard Rock Hotel is just a 5minute walk or boat ride away to Universal Studios Islands of Adventure and CityWalk.

Best Resort For Romance
Disney’s Polynesian Resort whose lush tiki torchlit grounds and whitesand beaches with views of Cinderellas Castle are simply dreamy or Universals Portofino Bay Hotel where an evening stroll along the bay with Italian arias playing in the distance cant be beat.

Best Resort For NatureLovers
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge a naturelovers dream of rushing waterfalls spouting geysers and bubbly creeks all surrounded by stately pine trees and beautiful Bay Lake.

Best Resort Lounges
* California Grill Lounge found on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort with unrivaled views of the Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon great for cocktails sushi and a view of the Wishes fireworks display. NOTE: If youre only coming for drinks it can be difficult to get a seat around fireworks time. Youll need to check in first at the secondfloor podium.
* Disney’s Grand Floridian’s lobby. Pick up a cocktail at Mizners and then head down to this magnificent oasis to relax while listening to the sounds of a big band or live piano music.
* Normans Salon. This sophisticated cocktail lounge is nested within Normans restaurant at the luxurious RitzCarlton.
* Territory Lounge a rustic retreat in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
* Bluezoos bar at the Walt Disney World Dolphin the coolest place around.
* Velvet the ultrahip cocktail lounge at Universal’s Hard Rock Hotel.
* Bar America Portofino Bay Hotels sophisticated lounge overlooking the romantic piazza.

Best Italian
Il Mulino at the Walt Disney World Swan with amazing tuna carpaccio and perfect gnocchi bolognese or Bice at Portofino Bay Hotel for rich braised veal shank accompanied by creamy saffron risotto.

Best Seafood
Flying Fish at Disneys Boardwalk for sauted grouper sitting atop a fricasseee of white beans chorizo arugula confit piquillo pepper and sauce beurre blanc or Todd Englishs Bluezoo at the Walt Disney World Dolphin where seafood is taken to new heights. Off Disney property its got to be Roys on Sand Lake Road near Universal for Roy Yamaguchis remarkable Hawaiian fusion cuisine.

Best Steaks
Shula’s at the Walt Disney World Dolphin a standout for sensational Angus beef steaks cooked to perfection or Vitos Chop House on International Drive for the filet mignon stuffed with gorgonzola.

Best Restaurant For Romance
Victoria and Alberts at Disneys Grand Floridian Resort where youll savor a sumptuous sixcourse meal served on elegant fine china to the accompaniment of enchanting harp music. Or Normans at the RitzCarlton for fine dining in plush surroundings all enveloped in the grandeur of an amazing resort.

Best Restaurant For Kids
Children love the Rainforest Caf at the Animal Kingdom or Downtown Disney where theyre bombarded with thunderstorms and noisy audioanimatronic wildlife. A close runner up is Whispering Canyon Caf at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge; come prepared for plenty of hoopin and hollerin and please whatever you do dont ask for the ketchup unless that is you like a lot of attention.

Best Character Meal
Cinderellas Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom a chance to breakfast in a fairytale castle with Cinderella Jasmine Aladdin Belle and Snow White. Or try the Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom for a tasty bountiful buffet hosted by Winnie the Pooh and his friends.

Best Hip Atmosphere
Todd Englishs Bluezoo at the Dolphin the coolest spot this side of South Beach or Tchoup Chop at Universals Royal Pacific Resort a knockemdead Asianinspired beauty.

Best Disney View
California Grill at Disneys Contemporary Resort with its pictureperfect views of the Magic Kingdom the Seven Seas Lagoon and the Wishes fireworks presentation.

Best Disney Resort Restaurant
Tough call. My favorites are the California Grill at the Contemporary Resort just about anything on their exceptional menu is fantastic or Victoria and Alberts at the Grand Floridian Resort particularly the Chefs Table where Chef Scott Hunnel oversees an elevencourse meal designed especially for you.

Best Universal Resort Restaurant
Tchoup Chop at the Royal Pacific Resort for wonderful Asian and Polynesianinfluenced cuisine in a stunning setting or Bice at Portofino Bay Hotel where superb Northern Italian food is served in a sophisticated dining room.

Best Downtown Disney Restaurant
Wolfgang Pucks upstairs Dining Room for dishes such as Chinois rack of lamb served with a spicy cilantromint sauce.

Best Epcot Illuminations View
Rose and Crown in World Showcases United Kingdom. Set your priority seating for about one hour prior to show time and pray for a table with a good view.

Best Milkshake
Beaches and Cream at Disney’s Beach Club Resort serves ohsodelicious thick shakes and malts in a frosty fountain glass with the extras on the side in the stainless steel shaker.

Best Pizza
You cant beat the pizzas at Downtown Disneys Wolfgang Puck Caf choose the housemade fennel sausage pizza the Pizza Bianca at Tonys Town Square at the Magic Kingdom or Mama Melroses at DisneyMGM Studios dont miss the grilled chicken pizza with sundried tomato pesto pancetta and Asiago cheese.

About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Cara Goldsbury the author of The Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World Resort has appeared on several Travel Channel specials about Walt Disney World including Disney Splurge and Disney Royalty and has been cited in many news articles as an expert on Walt Disney World.

Cara is a independent travel consultant with LuxuryOrlandoTravel.com specializing in all things Disney.

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Crimea an autonomous republic is reinventing itself after the ending of the old soviet union. Private enterprise is flourishing and wellstocked shops and good restaurants are the norm. Transport and accommodation are cheaper than the Mediterranean resorts but the weather is better and the sightseeing amazing!
Visitors from all over the world are welcomed in a country which has opened its doors to foreign tourists by reducing visa requirements to a minimum.
Whether you want winetasting or scuba diving mountains or sea to visit the Byzantine ruins of Khersoness or the fabulous Livadia Palace near Yalta home of the last of the Russian Tsars or if you just want to relax on the beach and then while away a warm summer evening in a gourmet restaurant Crimea has something for you.
In this article we will focus on the Balaklava and its reputation as a scuba divers paradise.
Balaklava Harbor lies on the Black Sea coast of the Crimea in the Ukraine. It is a fine natural harbor and provides excellent all round shelter. In the past the harbor was closed to all private vessels and was home to the Soviet submarine fleet. Yachts should establish the current position before attempting to visit Balaklava.
Balaklava is rapidly changing from being primarily a working port and in Soviet times a secret submarine base for the Russian navy to a leisure destination for tourists lured by the history of the place and the drama of the rugged coastline. Period houses along the waterfront are being restored a new hotel the Golden Symbol with its own harbor has opened and the place has an air of fresh prosperity.
The harbormaster at the Golden Symbol himself an exsubmariner will tell you about the maze of tunnels within the hillside that allowed large numbers of Soviet submarines to hide unobserved. It is an indication of the way things are moving that you can now take a tour inside the previously secret base and the large floating dry dock which used to be used for submarine repairs is to be moved to the naval harbor in Sevastopol this year. Crewing a submarine was a dangerous business and the town has several memorials to sailors and commanders who are remembered for acts of bravery.
Unlike elsewhere in Crimea restaurants in Balaklava are generally called Tavernas a nod in the direction of the Archipelago Greeks’ from the islands who settled this part of the coast under Catherine the Great. It was a Greek battalion which attempted to prevent the British occupation of Balaklava at the start of the Crimean war by holding out on the commanding heights where the ruins of the Genoese fortress overlook the town. There are locals with Greek names today who can trace their encestry back to this period.
Apart from the excellent restaurant The Gavan’ on the ground floor of the Golden Symbol there is a famous seafood restaurant with a good selection of Crimean Georgian and French wines and an English menu as well as numerous tavernas along the waterfront.
The Aquamarine’ diving centre offers scuba diving along the coast and from the Golden Symbol you can get a variety of boat trips from sea fishing to dolphin spotting.
There are three swimming beaches along the Balaklava inlet but the locals will advise you to walk the extra distance to the far side of the Genoese fortress where the beach faces the open sea or to get a boatsman to take you to a wild beach along the coast accessible only from the sea but make sure he remembers to come and collect you! or to swim in one of the numerous sea caves which abound under the cliffs.
A submarine turned by its bow to the shore and went with a slow speed towards the rock. The rock parted and hid the blackdeck cabin at first then the entire submarine.

Those who found themselves at the Balaklava seaside late evening could watch such a scene. A tourist would hardly understand what happened whereas the local people would guess that the next submarine that entered its shelter would be at the underground shiprepairing factory.
For a long time residents of Balaklava did not know exactly what was happening in the underground factory. Nowadays it’s possible to wander the dark winding halls with a guide. The excursion to the navy complexmuseum “Balaklava” clarifies the mysterious past of “Facility 825″ a top secret complex where the Soviet subs were hidden and repaired.

In the mid 1950s Josef Stalin a leader of Soviet communists amazed by results of Abombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki gave the order to hide the underwater fleet from possible nuclear attacks. The order had to be carried out and soon military engineers prepared the project for the constructing of a giant underground complex located in the thick of the rock deeply underground. This facility had to serve as a house for subs. It had to include such a roof and doors that could allow the ship to enter and exit by its own speed. And inside it had to be able to survive Abombs in the company of other subs surrounded with the consideration and care of commanders and repairers.
You can hire motor launches and sailing yachts by the hour to take you out to sea or to perfect beaches accessible only by boat because of the steep cliffs. You may want to take a dip from the boat and swim into sea caves. For more serious diving scuba equipment and guided dives are available from Aquamarine’. The Black Sea is home to the bottlenose dolphin and chance encounters are not uncommon.
If you fancy a spot of seaangling you can hire a boat rod and line and the services of a local seaman who can take you to the best fishing areas. In some cases you can cook and eat what you’ve caught on board.
So if you want a vacation with a touch of the deep sea extreme head for the Crimean Peninsula. The sea waters will gently embrace you and the Black Sea shelf will readily reveal its historical secrets of sunken ships and ancient epochs breathtaking underwater landscapes caves and volcanoes as well as acquaint you with marine life. Even though this underwater fairytale is quickly over; the memory of it will stay with you for the rest of your lifetime.

Like a museum the Black Sea preserves military relics. A great number of shipwrecks were left following the Crimean War of 1853 1856 that enveloped the waters of the southwestern Crimea from Cape Lukall to Cape Sarych. During a single hurricane in November 1854 in Balaklava Harbor 60 British French and Turkish vessels sank just as they readied themselves to bombard the fortress city of Sevastopol. On that fateful day the sea took into its embrace the pride of the British fleet the sailing frigate Prince and 20 thousand Pound Sterling in gold and silver. The legend of dozens of barrels filled with gold and silver still attracts treasure hunters all over the world and frigate itself was long ago renamed The Black Price in order to make the intrigue more exiting.
One more wonder of Crimeas underwater realm is an English frigate whose name still remains in mystery which went to the bottom with a cargo no less precious than that of the Price numerous bottles of wine and cognac which caused divers to christen it in The Drunken Jack. Today in the wreckage of the ship you can find a bottle of wine or cognac that has already been maturing for more than a century. At depths from 6 to 15 meters one can finds the eternal resting place of other heroes of the Crimean War: the legendary Lord Reglan and his fair lady the Duchess of Glendaloge and the majestic warriors Gung Pyrenees and London.
The Second World War also left its marks in Crimeas submarine spaces. In Unforgettable impressions will remain after a visit to Balaklava a small town in the vicinity of Sevastopol. During the Sovjet era there was a submarine shooting range there in the area of Mramorna Balka. Today at a depth accusable to divers one can see the remains of broken targets and unsuccessfully lounged torpedoes.

About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;StigArne Kristoffersen
A Globetrotter
www.lulu.com/stig

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European E4 long distance path
The Cyprus section which has been set up as a joint venture between the Forestry Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Cyprus Tourism Organisations connects Larnaka and Pafos airports. Along the way it passes through areas of outstanding natural beauty places of ecological importance and historic and archaelogical sites. All the roads and tracks on the route are well signposted and the CTO has published a booklet of the Cyprus section splitting it into comfortable daily sections with the distance and time needed to cover each one. Ot also gives useful information on the geology flora fauna and points of interest along each section of the route.
Hiking and rambling
The Cyprus Tourism Organisation and the Forestry Department have created over sixty nature trails to assist hikers and ramblers enjoy the islands hills and vales. The trails some linear and others circular help walkers discover the most fascinating corners of Cyprus. The terrain varies from that of Cape Gkreko in the southeast through the Troodos Mountains the foothills and forests to the Akamas peninsula in the west. The tyrails which are designed to take in areas of outstanding natural beauty and cultural importance are on gentle gradients and are divided into three degrees of difficulty with two trails suitable for the disabled. Wooden signboards mark the start of each trial and there are pointers to interesting flora or geological features along each route. The CTOS booklet European Long Distance Path E4 and other Cyprus Nature Trails gives details of the European E4 path and all the nature trials with the length duration and degree of difficulty of each one. You can pick up a copy at the nearest CTO information office.
Cycling:
If your idea of traveling is to have the wind on your face the sun on your back the gentle crunch of tyres on gravel the scent of pines around you and a glimpse of the sea sparkling in the distance then cycling in Cyprus is for you. Almost all the tourist resorts have bicycles for hire and the CTOs guidebook Cyprus Cycling Routes can be picked up at the nearest CTO information centre. The guidebook covers main routes connecting towns or regions and excursions within a region. Each itinerary describes the route from point to point by altitude and the distance from the start point the total distance is given as well as the difficulty rating which is based on the average moderately fit cyclist. Recommendations are also made as to the type of bicycle suitable for each route and the road surface is described. The book includes a map of each route. There is also a longer cycling route in the Troodos mountains. This is split into three sections and takes riders from Pano Platres to the Karvounas mountain saddle; then to Prodromos and finally back to Platres. The route is on forest rural and secondary roads and it passes villages historical sites monasteries and areas of outstanding natural beauty. It is signposted and there are markers pointing to viewpoints etc. for competitive cyclists the Cyprus Cycling Federation which is a member of the International Cycling Union ICU organizes an annual threeday international mountain bike competition called Afxentia that attracts cyclists from all over Europe. The CCF also runs annual road races.
Horse Riding:
Riding is a different way of exploring the hidden secrets of the Cyprus landscape. There are riding stables and ranches all ovewr the island so you can enjoy the Akamas peninsula the Cape Gkreko Natiional Forest Park or the pinescented Troodos Mountains on horseback. Riding allows you to enjoy nature at a slower pace to hear the birdsong and watch the incredible colours of the last rays of the setting sun over sea or mountain. Riding can be enjoyed yearround thanks to the islands climate and there is trekking and hatching for all levels of competence. Riding lessons are also available at centres with welltrained horses and qualified instructors. The CTO has published a pamphlet Horse Riding in Cyprus and more information is available from the Cyprus Equestrian Federation. For those who are nervous of horses donkey rides are also available.
Skiing and Snowboarding:
Chionistra the traditional name for Mount Olympus at the summit of the Troodos Mountains means the snowy one and in winter it is covered with a good layer of snow.Cyprus Hotels There is a brief but vigorous skiing and snowboarding season from December to March. There are four main runs on the southern slopes Sun Valley I is ideal for novices and Sun Valley 2 is for more practiced skiers. North Face I and North Face 2 are for the experienced. The Cyprus Ski Club runs tbar lifts at Sun Valley and the North Face where there are six alpine standard runs varying from 100 to 500 metres. There are two langlauf trails at Sun Valley; one of eight kilometres and one of four which go through some wonderful and dramatic scenery. Snowboarding is growing in popularity and plans are afoot to create a park dedicated solely to this upandcoming sport. Visitors can hire equipment from the ski store at Sun Valley and individual and group tuition is available for skiers and snowboarders.
Angling:
Angling in the dam reservoirs of Cyprus is a very popular pastime and twentyone reservoirs provide excellent freshwater fishing throughout the year. Seventeen species of fish are stocked including trout bass carp perch and roach. Catch and keep is allowed at akk but two sites Polemedeia Lemesos District and Achna Ammochostos District which are catch and release only. Anglers need a fishing licence which can be easily obtained from the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research in Nicosia or from the regional offices of the Fisheries Department.
Ornithology:
Cyprus lies on one of the main migratory paths for bird species from Europe Asia and Africa and there are many endemic species on the island. Winter is the time to enjoy spectacular flocks of flamingos and wildfowl at the Salt Lakes. High summer is a quiet time as the number of breeding species is relatively small. Autumn is excellent for the passage of raptors especially in September and October. The season also sees a massive movement of wildfowl gulls and herons. Birdlife Cyprus is an NGO that promotes the protection of birds and their habitats. BLC is an affiliate of Birdlife Europe and it runs birdwatching trips and a birdline through which visitors can find out what is happening on the local scene.
Botany:
In the heat of summer visitors can be forgiven for thinking that Cyprus is bereft of flowers as the dry rockstrewn hills show scant evidence that the island is home to an extraordinary variety of wildflowers and orchids including around 130 endemic plants. The best time to see Cyprus wild flowers is in early spring Februarymarch. When most species enjoy a short period of blossoming and take advantage of the unusually moist climate. The countrys floral profile is the result of the catastrophic ice ages when much of the flora of northern and central Europe was glacier covered while the Mediterranean basin escaped unscathed providing a haven for the evolution of plant life.
National Forest Parks:
There are seven national forest parks including two within the environs of NicosiaAthalassa Park and Paedagogical Academy Parks which have nature trails picnic sites birdwatching basketball arenas. The Troodos National Forest Park is the largest and includes four Nature Reserves. It has the largest number of wild plats including endemics compared to anywhere else on the island and has been designated as one of the thirteen Mediterranean Plant Diversity Hot Spots. The Park has many recreational facilities including picnic sites a campsite nat?re trails riding and winter sport. The Cavo Gkreko National Forest Park in the southeast of the islands is ideal for hiking. picnicking cycling riding climbing swimming and diving.

About the writer:  Write about cyprus villages

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One of the things that I did not have time to cover in my last article on ‘Holidays ideas to beat the Credit Crunch‘ was a real killer money saver. House Swapping actually I noticed the organisations concerned prefer to call it exchanging perhaps to avoid any overtones. This one seems a bit way out at first but offers some real savings if you still want to travel and gives much more chance to get into the local culture and pace of life than a traditional package.

The range of people and places who want to swap houses is really quite surprising. At the biggest home exchange service Homelink there are over 14000 from 72 countries. I think that sort of people this would suite would be slightly more independent and adventurous. If you dislike the way you are treated like a tourist on conventional tours and hotels that are impersonal. I think Home Exchangers want to gain new experiences and like to feel in control of their precious leisure time.

Here are some of the reasons why some people find home exchange makes for an ideal holiday.

Holiday Ideas Costsavings

The cost of accommodation is a major factor in holiday budgeting especially for those such as teachers or parents of schoolaged children who are tied to specific dates and so tend to pay inflated prices. For the price of annual membership 120 accommodation budgets can be totally eliminated irrespective of the duration of your stay. It is easy to see how this money could be put to good use: A more exotic destination perhaps? How about longer or more holidays? Or maybe you might have little more spending money to treat yourself to some special events that help to turn a good holiday into a great one. One home exchanger recently put the costsavings into context for me when she said that her membership more than paid for itself on the first night of her first exchange!

You can keep it simple by merely exchanging homes however you can save even more money by also agreeing to exchange cars so that the holiday budget can be limited to cost of travel plus food / spending money.

Holiday Ideas Authenticity

Conventional tourism can sometimes thwart the principle of “When in Rome….” as travellers are often treated as tourists. In this way you have the opportunity to parachute into a genuine local community and live like a local. So if you like the idea of sauntering along to the local diner to ask for “eggs easy over and coffee” home exchange could be for you. With this in mind you dont have to live in a touristy area yourself either.

Holiday Ideas Flexibility

Remember also that there is no limit to the number of exchange holidays that you can take during your membership year. This should be appealing to retired or semiretired members as they are more able than most to succumb to wanderlust. This also means that there are quite a high proportion of similar travellers and the sites indicate both where people have children and where they are retired. Having members in over 50 countries also means that there is an enormous range of destinations from which to choose.

The emergence of local airports and lowcost airlines makes domestic and European destinations more accessible and so opens up the possibility of adding a number of cheap 37 day breaks to the main holiday of the year. On renewing for their second year one family recently told me that they had completed seven exchanges in their first year!

Holiday Ideas Convenience

Wellmatched home exchange partners go on holiday in the knowledge that their accommodation is likely to be tailored to their needs. For instance parents of young children may find it easier to relax when their holiday home is childfriendly. Parents might also enjoy travelling light as many normal accompaniments can be left at home as a car seat high chair and a range of toys await them.

Furthermore many members agree to take care of each others pets and/or garden maintenance so there may not be a need to pay for alternative arrangements or return home to a jungle after your holiday.

Frequently asked questions about Home Exchanges

How do I know my home will be Safe?

The answer is you don’t. However arguably your home will be much safer when occupied by exchangers than if left empty. Home insurance companies know this as do the police. HomeLink claims that in over forty years of exchanging they have had very few instances of damage and no reports of theft. Most problems are at the level of “housekeeping standards” at the home being visited. Even in these rare situations exchangers return to find their own home just as they left it. While you are setting up your exchange you will get to know the other family. You also know the other exchanger’s profession and have a good idea of the home involved before you make your first contact.

Most HomeLink members are professionals doctors engineers teachers etc. business executives and retirees. In general they are in an upper income bracket well educated and are experienced travellers. They are also very proud of their homes which is why they’re not too embarrassed to let others enjoy their home whilst they’re away.

Who pays the bills?

Pay your mortgage and utilities as you normally would and agree beforehand who should pay extraordinary expenses such as long distance telephone calls. If a carexchange is involved you should discuss who pays for minor or major damage.

Is my house covered by my insurance?

In general most home insurance policies covers home exchangers. After all they’re your guests and it’s really no different from having friends or relations stay in your home whilst you’re away on holiday. Most insurance companies say they would much prefer you to have exchangers looking after your home rather than going off on holiday and leaving it empty. However you would have to check with your insurers and personally I would ensure it either explicit in your policy or you have it in writing.

Planning and getting an exchange

There is a continual turnover of people joining such schemes and looking for exchanges many arrange an exchange within a couple of weeks. The most successful exchangers are those who are proactive and send many invitations. The more flexible your plans the greater your opportunities. Generally speaking shorthaul trips are planned 36 months in advance with longhaul trips being planned 69 months ahead or more.

Whats actually involved? How do I prepare my house?

These recommendations from http://www.HomeLink.org will give you some idea of what you have to do to prepare your home.

1 Leave your home clean. Standards of cleanliness vary so make sure that floors are cleaned refrigerator emptied oven and hob greasefree bath and shower free of mould and grime windows seethrough and surfaces dustfree. No need to repaint the house!

2 Clear away enough of your personal belongings to leave space on shelves and in wardrobes and drawers so that your guests can empty their suitcases arrange their things in bedrooms and bathrooms and feel at home.

3 Leave at least two sets of clean sheets per bed and two sets of towels per person.

About the writer:  Rachel is a travel enthusiast and writer. Visit her blog Find holidays4U Blog or get you own unique holiday ideas by taking the free profile at Findholidays4U

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Sardinia’s northwest coast shelters a trio of the most attractive seaside resorts on the island interspersed with some really spectacular coastline. The principal town on this stretch is Alghero.

Sardinia stands in sharp contrast to the Italian mainland and Sicily and Alghero provides an even sharper contrast to Sardinia itself.

Alghero was not greatly disturbed by foreign influences in modern times until it suffered bombings during World War II. Alghero is one of those places that the Italians have been happy to keep to themselves.

Every year thousands upon thousands of main land Italians swarm to Alghero for the first two weeks of August the traditional Italian holiday season.

Alghero has become a major package destination yet it has retained its distinctive Catalan character the result of intense Spanish colonisation in the fourteenth century.

Strangely given this faintly exotic tinge it is simultaneously the most “Italian” of Sardinia’s holiday towns its old centre a tight web of narrow lanes packed with boutiques bars and restaurants.

The town has countless boutiques and a busy weekly market as well as a fruit vegetable fish and meat market held in the town centre on Monday to Friday.

Alghero is often compared to mainland resorts like Sorrento or San Remo and if it lacks their glamorous edge it’s also refreshingly free of their cynical hard sell. Even a short stay should be enough to get acquainted with the abundance of enticing beaches in the vicinity and to investigate the area’s most important archaeological sites not to mention the famous Grotta di Nettuno Neptune’s Grotto on the point at Capo Caccia.

Outside the resort the northwest coast presents a wild and rocky aspect sparsely populated and ideal for roaming.

Although public transport services are adequate for travelling between the main towns and villages hiring a car gives you more freedom while renting a bike is an enjoyable way to cover the shorter distances.

The local terrain is rewarding and challenging for walkers with few overly strenuous tracts though they should be aware that the rough and rugged nature of the coast means that much of the alluring Alghero Bosa stretch for example must be tackled on the road; fortunately it’s free of much traffic most of the time.

Alghero is a very rare Italian phenomenon: a tourist town that is also a flourishing fishing port giving it an economic base entirely independent of the summer hordes.

The predominant flavour here is Catalan owing to the wholesale Hispanicisation that followed the overthrow of the Doria family by Pedro IV of Aragon in 1353 a process so thorough that the town became known as “Barcelonetta” and is still known as Little Barcelona to the locals.

According to some Alghero’s name is derived from the Arabic alghar meaning cave or cavern possibly a reference to the celebrated Grotta di Nettuno nearby still Alghero’s largest tourist attraction. To access the caves you can either take a boat trip or a drive along the coast.

The boat stops at the entrance to the caves the drives involves a rather energetic walk down approximately 750 very steep steps. The views are amazing on the walk down just bear in mind that you’ll have to climb the 750 very steep steps after touring the caves with only the rock face to look at!

Others suggest that its original name was S’Alighem L’Alguer in Catalan meaning “seaweedy” or “place of algae” though there’s little evidence of this today in the clear blue seas although the Lido beach in the town does get rather a lot of seaweed accumulating on it’s shoreline.

In fact it is the purity of the water together with the spectacular coast that have helped to put the town on the map in recent times Tour operators homed in on Alghero in the postwar holiday boom which gave birth to the boom of hotels and restaurants that exist today catering to a constant influx of mostly British and German tourists.

As you might expect the choice of accommodation is extensive but booking is essential at any time. Although over the past forty years hotels have sprung up all along the coastline the Alghero town council still has very strict building laws for the area to stop the coastline from becoming a skyline of high rise hotels.

Thankfully the resort has escaped the fate of many other Mediterranean holiday spots and resisted the lure of tweeness and commercial saturation.

Instead it remains a fairly easygoing place with a sharp but goodhumoured population who themselves like nothing better than a good night out in a trattoria or a stroll along the passagiata a one and a half mile promenade. In fact the quality of Alghero’s restaurants is generally impressive the presence of the fishing port ensures a regular supply of the freshest seafood and the varied local cuisine also makes good use of the Catalan culinary tradition.

The town is additionally blessed by its proximity to some of Sardinia’s most famous vine yards producing eminently quaffable wines most notably Sella Mosca. As well as wonderful local Sardinian food it’s possible to find some wonderful Pizzeria’s in the town one of the best and most popular being Passaparola Pizza on Via Gilbert Ferret.

However the real attraction of Alghero is its atmospheric old town centre an intricate mesh of mainly carfree lanes at the heart of which Via Carlo Alberto Via Principe Umberto and Via Roma have most of the bars and shops.

The old town’s finest architecture dates from the sixteenth century built in a congenial CatalanGothic style; a walkabout should also take in the series of seven towers which dominate Alghero’s centre and the stout girdle of walls that encompass it.

The Spanish connection is never far away: the street names are all in the Catalan dialect carrer for “via” placa for “piazza” iglesia for “chiesa and palau for “palazzo” though they’re also in Italian which is what most of the locals use. Beyond this historic core the new town’s grid of parallel streets In little of interest beyond its restaurants and hotels.

The drive out to the north of Alghero will take you through the lowkey resort of Fertilia an alternative place to stay if Alghero is full. If you do stay in Fertillia be sure to check out the old Roman bridge that still stands acrocc the river.

Fertillia was built during the 1940′s as one of Mussolini’s land reclamation projects there are a few bars and trattoria’s here but only enough to keep you amused for a day. Close by is the area’s most important nuraghic complex Nuraghe di Palmavera not to mention some fine beaches such as La Bombardi Lazzaretto and Mugoni. Inland you could drop into another archaeological site belonging to an earlier era the necropolis at Anghelu Ruju set amidst the endless vineyards that produce Sardinia’s excellent Cannonau wine.

Further a field the undeveloped coast south of Alghero is a jagged and dramatic interplay of rock and sea with a few select beaches tucked out of sight There are no habitations here not until you climb to the village of Villanova Monteleone situated inland amidst a bare mountainous terrain.

In the opposite direction the country north of Alghero is much flatter but there are a couple of places worth exploring: Lago di Baratz harbouring protected wildlife and the abandoned mining centre of Argentiera dominated by the eighteenthcentury workings of a once flourishing industry.

About the writer:nbsp;nbsp;Sardinia HolidayPlease feel free to republish this article provided a working hyperlink remains to our siteYou may not always agree with my writings but I hope to inform.Harwood E Woodpecker

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Upon arrival have your first meal on the island at the Koh Chang Grand Orchid Restaurant in Klong Son village. It is under the resort of the same name and offers Thai international and seafood cuisine.

Ton Sai Restaurant is set on top of a banyan tree thus the name. It is located at White Sand Beachand serves fusion food.

Relax after dinner by sitting back at the nearby Sabay Bar. The bar is lively with the music from a Filipino band and firetwirling shows by skillful performers.

Blues Cha Cha bar set along the main road at Kae Bae just across The Chill is a place to
wine and unwind. Live bands plays nightly and firehouses play to the tune that fire up the atmosphere of a lively evening.

If you are looking for a 5star environment Breezes bar at the Amari Resort would be your best pick.

Featuring a trendy decor the cozy bar plays live music 6 days a week and offers a wide selection of cocktails beers and wines as you would expect from a 5star hotel.

If you are a bit tired there is the sofa bed for you to stretch out. Patrons can also choose to relax at the outdoor quiet lounge facing the sea.

The White Sand Beach Restaurant is located right on the beach where guests can bask in the gentle sunshine or relax under the starry sky while dining.

The restaurant serves Thai and European menus as well as dishes individually prepared by the chef.

Alina Restaurant Ban Thai Restaurant and Banpu Koh Chang Restaurant are inhouse restaurants for resorts of the same names on White Sand Beach.

It is an added advantage for the guests of the said resorts since these restaurants which serve seafood Thai and international favorites are only a step away from their accommodations.

If dining under the starry sky is your current leisure pursuit then Cookies Restaurant is the place to visit. For those seeking a Swedish dining experience Heli’s Kitchen is definitely the right choice.

Pizza lovers should be delighted to know that there are at least three pizza places on the island. If you prefer a fine dining ambience with candlelit tables try Invito Italian Restaurant. Pizza Ban Nuna is meanwhile down to earth.

Sassi at the Amari Emerald Cove Resort is famous for its traditional Italian cuisine. Its bright and vibrant atmosphere is cosy yet lively. The restaurant’s air conditioned indoor ambience complements the fine tastes of Italy.Outdoor servings are available if you prefer the natural air supply.

Just one level below is the Just Thai restaurant stylishly designed with contemporary Thai
decor. Expect the more innovative Thai delicacies and fresh seafood. The restaurant turns a bit Japanese with an additional 5course dinner menu every Mondays and Thursdays. Outdoor seatings are available here too.

The Cove Terrace boasts of an allday a la carte menu in a bright airy setting. Check out the special theme buffet available on some evenings.Exclusive romantic sunset dining right on the beach can be arranged.

Buffalo Bill Steak House on White Sand Beach serves one of the best steaks on the island . The wild west steak house has a very relaxed ambience and a friendly staff Here the portions are American size but not the prices.

The Milky Bar on White Sand Beach is an ideal place for those who want to spend the night singing to the tune of music.

The Terrace Restaurant in the premise of the Chang Buri Resort and Spa on White Sand Beach is on a hillside terrace where diners can enjoy food in a natural environment. The restaurant prepares both Thai and European cuisines.

The resort’s Beach Bar Restaurant is perfect if you prefer to dine by the beach where the menu is similar to that of the Terrace Restaurant.

For fine dining experience amongst the vegetation of a rainforest overlooking the sea go to Saffron On The Sea. This boutique restaurant offers Thai amp; Western delicacies in the open space with a good view of the mountain and the sunset.

For a change in scenery schedule a breakfast or lunch date at The Cinnamon Restaurant at the Aana Resort on Klong Prao Beach. The restaurant is located along the river and now provides free WiFi connection for its patrons.

If a light meal is all you need at the moment then visit The Hill Bar at the same resort. Before heading down to dinner drop by at the same bar for a sunset aperitif.

For a more relaxed dining experience get down to Aana’s The Beach Bar for street food drinks and cocktails.

Imagine dining in a tropical garden setting with the sound of the lapping waves of the nearby sea. Remark Cottage Restaurant at the Klong Prao Beach makes that experience possible plus letting you enjoy a wide variety of seafood.

A healthconscious vacation is now possible at the Boutique Restaurant where they serve health and vegetarian foods.

Just inside the Chai Chet Resort is the Chai Chet Seafood which serves the best in seafood cuisine to its inresort patrons. However they will also be happy to welcome anyone who’ll come visit them.

Enjoy a homey cozy atmosphere while dining at the K.B. Restaurant that serves local favorites fresh seafood and international food.

Let Siam Beach Restaurant’s chef prepare for you only the best Thai food a la carte and discover what it is like to experience the socalled dinner in paradise.

The Bay Restaurant at the Dusit Princess Koh Chang has a delightful selections of seafood and international cuisine. Modern decor in bright colours with a view of the Bai Lan Bay will further enhance your appetite.

The fishermen’s village in Bang Bao is the place to go to for the best seafood. Here you can expect the freshest catch of

the day at famous restaurants. One of the most reputable seafood restaurant here is the Ruan Thai Restaurant. Set above the sea the restaurant is famed for its fresh seafood prepared the local way at reasonable prices.

For a romantic culinary adventure try the Tantra Restaurant at the Nirvana Resort in Bang Bao where contemporary European and Thai cuisine are prepared by their renowned chef. An innovative promotion called the Nirvana Twilight Nights include a breathtaking view of the sunset amid soothing beats and refreshing cocktails an illuminated jungle walk and a 3course dinner at the restaurant set on stilts overlooking the fishing village and the calm sea. Fine wines and an extensive drinks menu add to the delight.

On the eastern coast a vegetarian outletSpa Koh Chang Restaurantis fast becoming popular among travelers. Its “Food for Health” slogan makes it a distinct choice for healthconscious diners.

Salakphet Seafood Restaurant is built above the waters giving the place a relaxing ambience and a feel of being part of the fishing community.

Watering holes or beer bars can be easily found on every beach on the island.

Other than Koh Chang most resorts on other islands include meals in their packages. Nevertheless some restaurants such as the Makathanee Restaurant on Koh Maak also serve a la carte menus. The place which is under the resort of the same name serves seafood local and international favorites.

Get a feeling of the island by dining at the Shantaa Restaurant on Shantaa Koh Kood. It is where local favorites are enhanced with the cooking secrets of local chefs.

But just before heading down to the restaurant take a detour to the resort’s Shantaa Beach Bar for your favorite drinks and snacks.

You can find more information in Koh Chang at http://www.kohchang.com

About the writer:  I’m Web Master and Web Marketing of Kohchang.com and Kohchangholiday.com Online reservation services for hotels and resorts in Koh Chang Koh Kood Koh Mak Trat Thailand.

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Aberdeen in the heart of Scotland’s Grampian Highlands is an ideal destination for art history and culture that is slightly off the beaten track. Scotland’s third largest city was inspiration for the well known Scottish folk song The Northern Lights of Old Aberdeen which portrays a well worn Scottish theme: that of extreme homesickness when away from my “home native land” and celebrates the spectacular phenomenon of Aurora Borealis.

Places of interest:

Aberdeen was established in 1179 and her fortunes were transformed by Robert Bruce’s 1319 Charter in recognition of his gratitude to the people of Aberdeen who had sheltered him during his campaign against the English. Since 1509 when the renowned University of Aberdeen was established Aberdeen has been an academic centre of Europe which influences a great many of the cultural and historical activities on offer in the city and its surrounding areas.

About the writer:  Biography
Name: Maria Williams
Website: http://www.sleepuk.com
Biography: Maria writes for Sleep UK
providers of discounted uk hotels

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